Worth the Time

Waltham Academy #2

by Laura Jackson

Doesn't anyone feel she's worth their time?

Routinely ignored by her single mother, high school senior Lindsey Hamilton hides her loneliness behind a mask of flirtatious self-confidence that has many boys wrapped around her finger. However, during community service required for graduation, she meets a shy guy with a haunted past who barely gives her the time of day. Why doesn't he like her?

Then the father she thought had abandoned her before birth wants to meet, and she discovers everything she believed about him is a lie.

How will Lindsey learn to trust so she can realize that she has been loved all along?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Young Adult, Christian

266 pages, Paperback

First published January 6, 2015

About the author

I love books. As a school librarian, I get to share books with kids all day. Then I come home and write.

As a follower of Jesus, my goal is to share stories that not only entertain readers but also bring glory to Him.

I'm a fan of trees, cardigans, Alaska, and the Houston Rockets.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“Doesn't anyone feel she's worth their time?
Routinely ignored by her single mother, high school senior Lindsey Hamilton hides her loneliness behind a mask of flirtatious self-confidence that has many boys wrapped around her finger. However, during community service required for graduation, she meets a shy guy with a haunted past who barely gives her the time of day. Why doesn't he like her?
Then the father she thought had abandoned her before birth wants to meet, and she discovers everything she believed about him is a lie.
How will Lindsey learn to trust so she can realize that she has been loved all along?”


Series: Book #2 in the “Waltham Academy”. {Book #1, “Worth the Wait”, review here!}


Spiritual Content- A Mention of Bible studies; Mentions of Prayers & most are written out; Talks about God, Him caring & His plans; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of Scriptures; Church going & Sermons; bible reading & discussing; Lindsey thinks that we control our own destiny (that view point changes by the end. ;) ); People try to witness to Lindsey.
*Note: “three weeks of h*ll” and “h*llhole of a school” are both said once or twice.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crap’, a form of ‘dumb’, two ‘gosh’s, two ‘shut up’s, four forms of ‘suck’, five forms of ‘screw’ and five ‘stupid’s; Mentions of Curses said, not written; Mentions of drinking, drunks & parties; Mentions of drugs & overdosing; a Mention of kicking someone’s butt; Lying.


Sexual Content- two ‘babe’s, three ‘sl*t’s, six ‘hot’s when referring to how someone looks; Not-detailed kisses and two semi-detailed kisses (But the guy asks Lindsey if he can kiss her!); Embraces & wanting to kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Lindsey was born out of wedlock; The opening chapter is set in Lindsey’s freshman year and is said that Lindsey kissed and slept with a jerk (it turns out it was all part of a bet with his friends; $100 for a date with her, $500 if he got her in bed—with a photo to prove it; it’s said the picture isn’t graphic, that it was taken “after”.); Dylan has been pressuring Lindsey to have s*x (he lets people think they’ve been sleeping together, which they haven’t); a Mention to get a room; a Mention of a girl who was raped; Rumors about cheating & sleeping with other girls; Boys, boyfriends, crushes, Exes & the drama that goes with it all.
*Note: Lindsey wears a strapless dress, shorts and tank tops.

-Lindsey Hamilton, age 17
P.O.V. of Lindsey
246 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
{Ratings would be near this or higher for girls in Public school.}
In the history of reviewing books for this blog (almost 500 books have been reviewed), I’m 99.99% positive I have never read a book with the main character being named Lindsey. Which is my name (see my signature?). In reading “Worth the Wait”, the first book in this series, I was a little annoyed that the mean girl’s name was Lindsey. I was really hoping her story (and why she’s so mean!) would be its own book—and yay!—now it is. Reading Lindsey’s story and past makes you see why she was so mean in Book #1. This wasn’t an easy read because of the Sexual content, but I truly enjoyed seeing Lindsey’s faith grow. I would not recommend this book for everyone though, just because of the Sexual Content.

Lindsey is currently: Typing a review about a book with the main character named Lindsey and listening to Lindsey Stirling. #lindseysruletheworld

Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...



*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this review.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the Time by Laura Jackson is a lovely heartwarming Christian novel. It is the second book in the Waltham Academy series (this book can be read without reading the first book in the series). Lindsey is a senior at Waltham Academy. She transferred to Waltham (a lovely Christian school) after an incident her freshman year at Dalton School for Girls. After transferring to Waltham Lindsey transformed herself and was determined to be a different type of girl. After returning from their senior mission trip (which took place after Christmas), Lindsey is told by her school counselor, Mrs. Santana that she is severely short on the volunteer hours needed for graduation. Mrs. Santana sends Lindsey to Covington House to get her volunteer hours. At Covington House Lindsey sees a different lifestyle – a Christian lifestyle. Lindsey has never known her Father and she is finally going to meet him as well as the rest of his family. This is a wonderful story. I enjoyed reading about Lindsey discovering Christianity. This is a wonderful story about self-worth, discovery, and love. I hope you will enjoy reading Worth the Time by Laura Jackson.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.

http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsey Hamilton is pretty and spoiled. She's a cheerleader who is ruthless. She is also known around school as having a certain reputation. Yet when she discovers that she must complete volunteer hours in order to graduate, she has no choice but to go to the place her counselor picked out and try to get her hours in. While at Covington House, she meets another student who has something she doesn't - a genuine faith. Lindsey's world is shaken even more when the father she thought abandoned her as a baby suddenly appears in her life. Lindsey's life isn't what she thought it was. The walls she's built around her heart begin to crumble as she searches for answers about who she really is.

When I first met Lindsey in Worth the Wait, I couldn't stand her. At all. Even when this book began, I still didn't like her. Yet as the book progressed and I got to see what caused Lindsey to be the way she was, I started to feel my heart going out to her. By the end of the book, she'd moved from couldn't stand her, to wanting to discover more about her. I've got to hand it to Laura. She was able to take a character that was not likeable at all and turn the character into someone who is worthy.

I think one of the things I loved the most about this book was that Lindsey's struggle to discover who she really was was so real. I mean here was a girl who had built her total identity on one supposed truth - her father abandoned her - only to have her world shaken to its core when she discovered that was not the case. Lindsey's search to find out her place in the world is probably the biggest thing that made me like her. And along the way, she discovered that she mattered to God.

Sutton is one character that I enjoyed. I think he was sweet and charming. I'd love to see him in future books. But he's truly a minor character while being the guy that Lindsey could fall for.

Overall, this was a very great read. I was thrilled to see that the author's second book follows the same tone as was set in the first.

I received the Kindle version of this book for free from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of young adult, the Christy Miller & Sierra Jensen books, Melody Carson,

Rating - 5 stars

Review scheduled to go live on my Blog on January 2, 2015 and on Amazon on January 6, 2015.

[Deanna Mosier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this young adult book by Laura Jackson. After reading book 1, Worth the Wait, I really wanted to read this 2nd book, and it did not disappoint. This is Lindsey's story. She was a character in the 1st book, but you don't have to read the 1st one before reading this one. Lindsey really acted out in book 1, and in this book, you find out more of her history and why she acted that way, and WOW...what a story! Worth the Time deals with many teen issues, like rejection, blended families, inattentive single parent, and being ridiculed in front of your friends, and handles the issues very well, no graphic details. Many good things begin to happen to Lindsey and she meets a really nice guy and...well read it for yourselves! I'm no teenager, but I think this a great read for a teenager and even older, like me! The book kept me coming back each day to read more. It was very intriguing, and shared God's love and forgiveness when you might not want to forgive yourself for things you regret doing. It was definitely Worth the Time!

I would recommend this book to friends. I was given a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Chris Unwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

At times I found it hard to put this book down so would really give it more like 4 1/2 stars. This book tells the story of a high school senior who appears to have it all, but does she really? The story of Lindsey deals with self esteem issues, bullying, teenage insecurities and getting along with those around you. Lindsey learns what it is going to take to turn her life around if that is the path that she wants to take. One of my favorite lines in the book that can apply to all of us is "They don't waste their time talking about you, so you should do the same."

I have not read this author before but look forward to reading more of her books. I would recommend this book for ages YA to 101. There is something everyone can learn. It is a clean read and falls in the Christian genre. I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Emma Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth The Time is a heart touching book. It's message is clear that Jesus will love and forgive you, no matter what sins you commit. Lindsey's story of hard times and her struggles in life show what happens in the real world. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
Lindsey showed me how bad life can get. She showed me that, no matter what happens, Jesus has plans that will happen when He wants it to. Her doubt that God actually loved her and the way that Sutton, her dad, and Mrs.Santana helped her showed the reality of it. If your looking for a book to read that's realistic yet adventurous, this is definitely a book for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review

[Joyful · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story of hard times and struggles in life reveals that no matter what you do Jesus loves and forgives you. After a senior mission trip, Lindsey learns to trust and realizes that she has been loved even through she has always felt unloved. This story deals with self-worth, trust, bullying, getting along with others, teen insecurities, and discovering love. This is my first read from this author but diffintely not my last. I recommend this Christian read to everyone. I was given this book for an honest review.

[Lonzine · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the second book of her Waltham Academy series, Laura Jackson generates compassion for a “mean girl” with a “bad girl” reputation. High school senior Lindsay Hamilton is self-absorbed, scheming, spoiled, entitled, selfish, manipulative, flirtatious, controlling and apparently quite indifferent to the feelings of others. She sets and executes her own agenda, which primarily seems to be targeting the hottest, most popular boys in the school. In most instances, whatever boy Lindsay wants, she usually gets.

Waltham Academy is a private Christian school, where prayer, talk about God and reading the Bible is acceptable. It is generally assumed that only “good” or “saved” children attend Christian schools. That is not true. Petty jealousies, backbiting, gossip, sexual awareness, and the other joys of secular high school life exist there too. This includes mean girls, crude boys, pretenders, and the sincere ones that really do seek to live for Christ.

The issue is not hypocrisy; it is assumption and the perceptions of the majority. Assuming that all of the students (or teachers) at a Christian school are born-again is naïve. So is assuming that mean girls can’t be hurt. It’s easy to write off an individual based upon surface behavior, but external actions often mask true expressions of the heart. This is the case with Lindsay. She has a reputation for being mean, popular with the boys, and many of the other behaviors typically depicted in teen movies, television programs and YA books. Lindsay however has redeemable qualities. She has a heart and a conscience. Under that careless exterior is a young girl that really wants to be loved and accepted.

I like the way the book opens – providing the reader with insider information. We get a glimpse of why Lindsay is the way that she is. We get to see her when she was sweet, before it all went sour. In fact, we hurt for her, and for a few moments we want to champion her.

Throughout much of the book, her behavior is unlovely, her life is incomplete. Yet as we watch the Champion of mankind work in her life through her best friend, a school administrator, family secrets, restoration, a church youth group and eventually one boy, we get the opportunity to root for her as we see Love win her back.

My mind also flashed on the way our society typically taunts and ridicules others for the mistakes that they make, particularly in a celebrity-oriented, social media world. It’s so much easier to ridicule then it is to reach out. I’m not familiar with the first book in the series, but I didn’t have to read it to connect with this story. It stands alone.

I liked this book. It was thought provoking. I liked the honesty, the insights and the fact that it has no perfect ending or characters. I even examined moments of judgment and assumption in my own life. I like that too. Worth the Time lives up to its title. It’s worth your time to read it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth The time by Laura Jackson is a young adults novel, and inspite of being incredibly older, I really enjoyed the novel. It is the second book in the Waltham Academy series, but you do not have to have read Worth The Wait to enjoy the book. However, that is a great book too and well worth reading. Worth The Time explores themes that are appropriate for all ages.
Lindsey has grown up in a single parent family and lacks a male role model, but then a letter from her father, whom she never knew arrives. Curious, Lindsey wants to meet him - and before her eyes, the past collides with the present, and what she thought she knew, changes. To find out how her father impacts her life, you must read the book.
The novel deals with the themes of forgiveness and letting go. There are several characters who need to both dispense and receive forgiveness. There are also incidents that have happened in the past, that need to be dealt with, so that the person can have a future of promise. The novel highlights that if a person clings to their past mistakes and harbours unforgiveness, then it is their personal future that will suffer.
God plays a central role in the novel, as the Christian characters try to live out the fruits of the spirit. This is not to say that the Christians have all had perfect, trouble-free lives, but they believe they are who God says they are, and do not let past events ruin their present and future lives.
Lindsey is trying to escape from a past event, but when she meets Sutton, whilst volunteering at Covington House, she takes a long hard look at the person she has become. Lindsey must confront her past if she is to ever be able to move into a bright future, or her past will take hold of her forever.
i thoroughly enjoyed Worth The Time and was blessed by it. The message and themes are ageless - we all need God, and we all need to deal with anything in the past which could hamper our futures. And forgiveness must be given out, whether to another or the face in the mirror.
Whatever your age, Worth The Time is a great read, and I am hoping that there will be plenty more novels in this series.

[Diginee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an honor it was to be selected to review author Laura Jackson’s new novel, “Worth the Time”, which releases to the public January 6th, 2015.

Frankly, from the first scene I could not put it down! Laura skillfully hooked me, the reader, with the first few paragraphs and I had to find out how Lindsey’s story would unfold. The questions, emotional attachment, and unsure path were before me, and Lindsey, and I wanted to walk with her to encourage, weep, and learn through Laura’s expert pen.

Have you messed up? Done something you would later regret and wanted to hide? Have you put on a mask and walked through your life being someone you are really not? How did you cope with your regret? Did the lie get bigger and bigger? Are you as a parent oblivious to those things in your own life that need to be dealt with so that you can be fully present for your spouse and children? For all of us, what is our crutch? What will we do when it is no longer there? What will we do when the lies in our life are exposed, when the mask comes off?

Lindsey, her mom, and the community around them all have had to, or will have to, answer the above questions. We must all sort through hurts, disappointments, and the unknown road ahead, to walk the sure path of God’s grace and mercy. We each have a future that can be wrapped in the love that God has for us. A love that will help us to confront every boulder we encounter, every raging storm, and every divergent path. Truth does set free!

I am excited for the January 6th release of Laura’s book and I hope you will join me in welcoming “Worth the Time”. You will not regret reading this amazing novel! You will change, and grow, as you do . . .

“I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.”

[Mary Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsey Hamilton is the bad girl, the calculating cheerleader who seems to get any boy she wants and who acts like she's above everyone else. She doesn't let anyone see the hurt that motivates her, the void in her life of being fatherless. All Mom told her is that her dad left before she was born. He didn't care enough about her to stick around. So as a shy freshman at a girls' boarding school, she gives herself to a boy who shows interest, only to learn that by going all the way with her, he won a $100 bet. The embarrassment makes her leave school and make herself over into someone who hurts others before they can hurt her.
While I didn't always connect with the character, I thought her transformation was believable. At heart, Lindsey is simply a girl who is harboring a deep, deep hurt because she believes the lie that she's not worth much. But when she takes the time to get to know other kids instead of judging them, she discovers they hide deeper hurts than she does. And when her dad shows up and wants to be involved in her life, he provides a secure foundation for her to step out and make these new discoveries.
The only thing I would have liked to see is a resolution to the animosity between Lindsey and her new half-sister, Brittney. As Lindsey's attitude softens toward other kids, I'd like to see her reach out to Brittney.
Overall, though, the story kept my attention and I think it provides teen girls a good look behind the masks that many girls wear to hide their hurting heart.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa Godfrees · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Worth the Time even more than the first book in the series, Worth the Wait.

Worth the Time is about Lindsey, the "mean girl" in Worth the Wait. In this story, we get to find out who Lindsey is and why she does the things she does. She lets a past mistake and a dysfunctional relationship with her mother define her. The good thing is that she has people in her life who care about her.

Starting with a character as flawed as Lindsey leaves a lot of room for growth and character development. There's plenty going on in this story to hook you and keep you reading. More than the traditional YA romance. And it is a hint on the edgy side too, which will appeal to younger readers.

The only negative I will say is that the story ended somewhat abruptly. My Kindle was partly to blame in that it fooled me. I was only at ~80% when the story ended because there were discussion questions and promo stuff for other books at the end. It would have been nice to have another chapter to put a bow on the ending, but the reader can guess how things will go.

If you enjoyed Worth the Time, I think you will like this offering even more.

Disclaimer: I received an Advanced Review Copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Adriana B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the Time was a beautiful sequel to Worth the Wait and I absolutely loved it! I love the unique and relatable aspect Laura Jackson gives each of her characters and even the stories themselves.

I had been waiting for this sequel for a while and I devoured it in a very short amount to time. Wonderful read with a very relatable story that really speaks truth and love and encouragement in every page.

Such an amazing read that I suggest everyone take the time to read. Especially lovers of the YA Genre.





-I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Connie Pease · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth the Time, a YA novel by Laura Jackson, pulls the reader into a world of high school troubles and broken family questions. Characters and locations are woven together; exploring misunderstandings, lies, and restoration in a realistic manner. The author tells the story of Lindsey who moves from insecurity to flirtatiousness in an effort to protect herself. Will walls be broken down, and thoughts and feelings unmasked? It is a satisfying read with a lovely ending. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Abbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

After absolutely loving Worth the Wait last year I couldn't wait to read Laura's sophomore novel. Though I will admit to being a bit hesitant since the heroine of this book was the mean girl of the last one. Thankfully I worried for nothing! Laura did an amazing job of explaining all that had happened to Lindsey to make her treat people the way she did and an equally amazing job of believably making her change. It wasn't a sudden transformation but rather a realistic softening of her heart to God through the love of His children. I felt so bad for how Lindsey had been made to feel not always by the mean actions of others but most often by their inaction. It was so cool to watch as God kept bringing people into her life that took the time to care about her and love her, and how she began to let down her guard and accept their friendships. Sutton was a great hero and I loved how strong his faith was and how he didn't let his past stop him from loving others. I was impressed by the way he handled his relationship with Lindsey, being a good friend to her and helping her find her way to the love of the Savior.
I also really liked the character of Lindsey's father and I loved how that situation played out.
In short I loved this book and I absolutely hated when I had to stop reading it for silly things like sleep and work. I highly recommend this book and Worth the Wait!

I received this book free from the author in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great book to read! Lindsey's story was so compelling and grabbed my attention immediately. I love the way her story shows the events in her past that have so much impact in her life today. She was such an unhappy girl before love entered her life. First, she has to get her relationship with her mother straight, which isn't easy with a new-found dad in the picture. Apparently, her dad never even knew she existed! Then, she realizes she has hours of community service to do to be able to graduate, and she's a senior! Oh, the drama... Anyway, the punishment ends up being a blessing when she meets an interesting, sweet young man that catches her attention.
And all of this leads to her finding out there is more to life than cheerleading and flirting with boys. The author puts the reader right in Lindsey's mind, and it's amazing to see her change in a positive way as the book progresses. You have to read "Worth the Time" to find out what all happens, but it's definitely worth reading, I highly recommend this story. This is a great book that showcases how a person can get through a hard past and look forward to a bright future. Thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Laura's first book in this series, so when asked to review this book I jumped at the chance. Ellie and Lindsey are total opposites in characters and it took me a several chapters before I really felt like I could relate to Lindsey. I found her to spoiled and self-centered. I agree with the other reviewer who said she had a lot of room for growth. I felt the same way!

As much as I disliked her in the beginning of the book, by the end I found myself bonding with this girl. I grew to understand her insecurities and struggles for acceptance. I could relate to her on a deeper level than I expected.

One of the things I love about Laura's books is how she builds the tension between her two main characters. She does it with such ease throughout the chapters, it's very subtle and by the end you are dying for them to get together. It's not overdone and I appreciate that given it's teen fiction. It very clean and safe for my pre-teen daughter to read.

I highly recommend this book and the first book in the series.

[Wilani Wahl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have struggled with writing this review. One of the problems is the book is written for teens. I would not be comfortable with my niece reading the book. I did not like the emphasis on teens having sex and that is why I would not want my niece and other teens to read the book. It was well written. I loved the fact that Lindsey found the Lord. I also loved the testimony the Christian teens had and the way they reached out to Lindsey. I find it hard to read of a Christian school having dances and proms yet another reason I would not have my niece read the book. I realize my views are very narrow and conservative Christian. If the book were an adult genre I would give it 5 stars, but since it is a YA I have no choice but to give it a 4 star for the reasons above. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would still welcome a chance to read another of this author’s books.

[Daphne Self · Rating 3 out of 5]

Laura Jackson wrote an exceptional book in the vein of the Sweet Valley High books by Francine Pascal in the 1980s. Sweet and full of character growth, the book had a wonderful message about forgiveness and self-worth.

Although a great book, I was dismayed at some of the word choices for a young adult novel. While used in its proper context and considered mild by today's standards, these are words that I would not choose for my children (even nephews and niece) to use or read. The children in my family decided for themselves that they would not read words like that in books. It makes them uncomfortable. Also, in my opinion, these are words that are inappropriate for a teenager with a fledgling faith.

That's the only fault I found in the book.

Worth the Time was a sincerely sweet read, full of promise, faith, and hope. The Christian aspect read naturally and the growth of the characters were realistic.

Laura Jackson is a gifted storyteller.

[Ashlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this bookbcause it was real; not fabricated or beautified. It showed real problems that people face.
Worth the Time is the second book by Laura Jackson that I have read. I believe that I like it more (than Worth the Wait) because the main character was relatable, as were her struggles. Laura Jackson most realistically wrote the thoughts that would run through a confused, young girl's mind, one without God to direct her. Worth the Time is definitely a book for young adults, especially those who walk the same path as Lindsey. There were so many things to be learned from this book. Many of the realizations that I took away were of trusting God to lead you, and also to love yourself. Overall the theme of the book was inspiring and honest.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review

[Beverly Lytle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Laura Jackson book, and I must say that I was impressed with the character depth, the story line, and the scriptural lessons it taught. I felt this book did a great job of dealing with real life issues that teens face today. I liked the way the Christian teens rallied around the main character, showing her that her worth didn’t come from anything she had done in the past, anything she could do in the present, or any circumstance that she was in. Each person must look at themselves through the eyes of Christ to realize our true worth. The spiritual threads within the story were impactful without being pushy or overbearing.
I would welcome the opportunity to read other books by Laura Jackson.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Natalie Darby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Giselle Lumas for providing me with a free copy of this audiobook in return for an honest review.

Worth the Time is a coming of age story that follows Lindsey, a young girl trying to find herself as she changes from a teen to an adult. Lindsey is a lonely girl who has never met her father and isn't particularly close with her mother. When sent to a shelter for her community service, Lindsey meets Sutton and finds out that her life isn't actually so tough.

The Good Stuff
I really liked the balance between Lindsey's story of meeting her father and slowly building a relationship with Sutton. The backstory of Lindsay's father was really interesting and he was really likable.

The narrator, Giselle was very right for this story, she had a very calming voice and kept the dialogue flowing very well, even at points when it seemed to be a little forced and badly written.

Sutton was a really likable character. I'm so used to reading the shy girl falls for the popular boy but not so much the other way around. It was really interesting to read.

Not My Cup of Tea
As mentioned above, some of the dialogue didn't really seem to flow, the narrator did a great job of making it work but I think had I been reading it I may have given up because it just didn't seem natural.

When I read the write up for this story I wasn't aware that it was a Christian fiction.
I don't really mind a character having a religion - whether it's Christian, Jewish, Muslim...it adds to the character. This one, however, really went to town with teachings. After about halfway I was getting sick of hearing the word Jesus, Preacher and God. It was more or less the word out of every character's mouth.
This story would be perfect for someone who is a lot more interested in the Christian religion but for me, it did get very long and very annoying.

Overall Rating
The story that followed Lindsey was quite nice and well split between meeting her dad and learning more about Sutton. However, I did get very tired of the Christian talk and probably wouldn't have gotten so frustrated with the book had I known that it was very Christian themed. It would definitely be well suited as Young Adult Christian fiction, but it's just not for me.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not religious so I normally stay clear of books with a strong religious themes. The blurb on this one was intriguing so I decided to give it a go. I was right about the strong religious themes but I enjoyed the book anyway.

The writing is very well done and the story has a great flow to it. There's lots going on and strong themes of forgiveness and moving on. The characters are well developed and their interactions are a times funny, touching, sad and more.

Lindsey is not very likeable for parts of the book but her story is also touching and she does a lot of growing throughout the book, I was quite attached to her by the end.

All in all I enjoyed listing to this book. The narration is well done, the character voices are clear and distinct and the delivery is smooth and well paced.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.

[Ruby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book is really good, worth the read and has a lot of good parts. the empty house and how she try to keep people out is sad, but understandable.
I love the volunteering hours and how the meaningful plot creeps up on you. I am not a fan of the fake boyfriend or lying to herself about her feelings, however, just like her home life it is all understandible.
I was given this free copy, in return for my unbiased review

[Kelly Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story

I loved that this story shared the Gospel and the reader got to see the changes and struggles in the main character. The writing style was choppy and "telling vs showing." The ending seemed abrupt. Overall, a sweet, clean story.

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Worth the Time” is the second book in the Waltham Academy series. In this book, we learn more about Lindsey Hamilton, who we were introduced to in the first book of the series, “Worth the Wait.”

To the outside world, it may seem like Lindsey has it all. She is popular, beautiful, and never without a boyfriend. But, things are never as they seem. Lindsey’s life is actually quite lonely. Her single mom regularly ignores her, and despite her popularity, Lindsey only has one true friend.

One day, Lindsey learns that her mom has been keeping an important secret from her. Lindsey’s father, the man she thought abandoned them long ago, wants to meet her. In fact, he didn’t even know of Lindsey’s existence until recently. Lindsey is excited and nervous about finally meeting her father, and he turns out to be a wonderful person and a strong Christian. He is determined to be a part of her life, and they start to build a relationship. However, his sudden appearance in her life strains the already tense relationship she has with her mother. Can Lindsey look towards the future and forgive the pain and the lies of the past?

Along with her family drama, Lindsey struggles to complete volunteer hours so she can graduate. When her school counselor sends her to Covington House, Lindsey is immediately drawn to Sutton, another volunteer. When he first meets her, all Sutton can see is Lindsey’s snobby, popular girl exterior. Lindsey is baffled by the one guy in the world who seems immune to her charms. He is unlike any other guy Lindsey has ever met. He loves God, is dedicated to mentoring the kids he works with at the community center, and he works hard at school and taking care of his family. Will Lindsey and Sutton be able to trust that perhaps God brought them together for a reason?

As Lindsey balances volunteering, school, and her family life, she begins to question the person she has allowed herself to become. But after so many people have hurt her, will she be able to finally trust that God loves her, completely and without strings?

I really loved this book! I read the first book in the series, and I enjoyed it, as well. In the first book, Lindsey is not likable at all. She is mean to the other characters, and it’s really a struggle to relate to her. When I found out that “Worth the Time” would be about Lindsey, I wasn’t sure how I felt about that. However, Mrs. Jackson did an excellent job at showing us the “real” Lindsey. It was a good lesson to remember that everyone struggles with something, and we should give people a chance and not judge. I loved watching the transformation that Lindsey went through during the course of the book. Her emotions were so genuine. I really felt like I was struggling along with her as she grappled with her feelings of loneliness, belonging, and figuring out who she was in Christ. The other characters were amazing, as well. Sutton was an awesome hero- handsome, sweet, and Godly. I also really liked Lindsey’s father. He was so kind, and he really stepped up and became the father Lindsey needed when he found out about her. I can’t think of anything about this book I didn’t like, and I highly recommend it!

I received the Kindle version of this book for free from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked "Worth The Time" by Laura Jackson. I read book 1"Worth The Wait" and so I really wanted to read this one, the 2nd in the "Waltham Academy series"and I liked it better than the first one. This story is Lindsey's story, a character in "Worth the Wait.

This story tells why Lindsey did the things she did she did in "Worth The Wait. This book is in the genre Young Adult and it is Christian Fiction but teaches life lessons well and is missing the things the things I disliked in book 1, here is the link if interested http://debbieloseanything.blogspot.co...

This book can be a stand alone but I am glad I read book 1 before reading this book as it starts up where book 1 ended.

I would recommend this book to teens and adults alike.

This book deals with many teen issues, like rejection, blended families, inattentive single parent, and being ridiculed in front of your friends, and the author handles the issues very well, with no graphic details.

Lindsey learns to forgive her self and learns that she is worthy.

This is a really good clean love story!

This book was really "Worth The Time" I spent reading it and I am hoping there is a third!
I know how I want the third book to go if there is one! But I guess that remains to be seen!

"Worth The Time is getting 5 stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Shari Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsey Hamilton is like many teenage girls, insecure, confused, lonely and trying to figure out who she really is and where she fits in. The author did a wonderful job of presenting the many areas of conflict Lindsey encountered. While attending a private school she gives in to sexual pressures and is devastated when she discovers it was all a game, a challenge. She transfers to a Christian school and sets out to reinvent herself. She becomes a flirty, self-confident tease, with guys wrapped around her finger, but she is still confused and lonely. Despite the fact that she goes to a Christian High School, she is not a Christian. She doesn’t understand and accept God’s unconditional love for her and His forgiveness. The author did a good job of developing the characters and making them come alive. I didn’t want to put this book down and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book would make a good “Book Club” book for young adult girls to read. There are good discussion questions at the end which would encourage open discussion. This is the second book in this series but is a stand alone book, not requiring the first book to be read. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed it! I plan to read Laura Jackson’s first book, Worth the Wait.

[Gina Hott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A non-existent dad and a rarely-show mom has proven to Lindsey that she can only count on herself. Even God has deserted Lindsey.
Always looking for someone to love her, Lindsey put her trust in the wrong person freshman year. She emerged from the incident just a shell of the person she was before. It’s now senior year and Lindsey is finally starting to crack. That facade she perfected can’t be maintained when she’s faced with reality – and a God that knows she’s worth the time.

Hott Review:
Oh, Laura Jackson! You ruined a perfectly productive day! I picked this up while in a waiting room and just couldn’t put it down!
What I liked: I loved ‘Worth the Time’! Not only does this novel give the clear message of Christ but it also portrays real people, real teens, and real life without being secular.
What I didn’t like: This was really emotional and it’s so hard to remember you’re not with Lindsey.

More…
Author: Laura Jackson
Source: Laura Jackson
Grade: A+
Ages: 16+
Steam: YA
Setting: Houston, Tx
Series: Waltham Academy #2

[Glenn Haggerty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lindsay Hamilton, Waltham Academy's most notorious flirt and sometimes bad girl needs community service hours to graduate. She expects 90 hours of torture at the local community center, but instead she meets the unconquerable Sutton, the boy with serious green eyes who rejects Lindsay's every flirtatious advance. Lindsay's got a past that she’ll share with no one, and suddenly a future with her previously unknown biological father, who demands a DNA test and a possible meeting. There's enough drama here for an entire cheerleading squad. Will Lindsay reach forward toward a new future, or retreat into the dark world of past fears and failures?

In Worth the Time, Laura Marshall tells the story of Lindsay Hamilton, the manipulative conniver of Book One. With many interesting plot turns the author chronicles one girl’s journey from innocent bookworm to selfish socialite who further evolves into someone new. This is a beautiful story of redemption, romance and second chances.