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Promises from Above #1
What God Brings Together
Though Emma has never lost her faith in Providence, the pain of tragedy, rejection, heartache and loneliness have plagued her for eight long years. Just when she thinks she has found her path, a return to her hometown brings past hurts rushing back into her life. Can Emma learn to finally release the hardships of the past and rely on the goodness of God’s plans for her future?
Eight years after a disfiguring accident, self-torment and life in the shadows keep David from all that he holds dear. When a chance encounter stirs him to hope again, he battles the voice inside that tells him he doesn’t deserve his second chance. Can he accept the gift of restoration God is offering him? Or will he allow self-doubt to rob him of his greatest love and the family he longs to embrace?
Eight years after a disfiguring accident, self-torment and life in the shadows keep David from all that he holds dear. When a chance encounter stirs him to hope again, he battles the voice inside that tells him he doesn’t deserve his second chance. Can he accept the gift of restoration God is offering him? Or will he allow self-doubt to rob him of his greatest love and the family he longs to embrace?
258 pages, ebook
First published December 3, 2014
49 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Wardwell
20 books936 followersMelissa Wardwell resides in Owosso, Michigan with her husband and family. As the “nest” begins to empty, she finds more time to write, read, and enjoy life with her husband.
When she isn't penning works of fiction, she can be found hoping around her small town delivering groceries, volunteering with the local writers group, on the back of her husband’s motorcycle, or just relaxing with a good book that will be reviewed on her book blog, Back Porch Reads.
To see more from Melissa Wardwell, visit www.melissawardwell.com
When she isn't penning works of fiction, she can be found hoping around her small town delivering groceries, volunteering with the local writers group, on the back of her husband’s motorcycle, or just relaxing with a good book that will be reviewed on her book blog, Back Porch Reads.
To see more from Melissa Wardwell, visit www.melissawardwell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 16, 2015
Somedays you just need that extra lift to get you through. Remind you that there is a higher power that is working in our lives. What an amazing way this author did that through a romance story. What an amazing feeling to take away to at there is a power that will see you through your good and through your bad. That is what this story does. I started almost heart broken, then turned to "oh so that's what happened" then went to "i didn't see that coming". It was great I enjoyed every single bit of this one.
April 12, 2018
After I read Book Two in the series, I had to read this book, Book One, about Emma and Ryan. I couldn't put it down when I faced the last hundred pages. I look forward to the third installment!
April 23, 2015
Sometimes, a story catches your attention and draws you in despite the fact that flaws within the book are very distracting. This was a very intriguing story, and it was one that I had a hard time putting down, although the editing leaves a lot to be desired.
The character development was good, making the characters feel “real”. However, I found the story to be unbelievable, at best. I feel the story line could have gone a few different directions which would have made it so much more believable and enjoyable. I was also disappointed that an author would put a minister in the position that she did. That position is a very honorable one, and I think this book discredits that honor.
I would like to have seen the story lengthened to include the healing in the relationship of the hero/heroine. It is not nearly as easy to put it all behind you as what the story portrayed.
I did feel the spiritual threads woven through the story between the hero and heroine were good. I felt that the characters grew spiritually through their experiences, and eventually made decisions that followed scripture.
I would like to see the author edit the manuscript to correct the errors and perhaps dig a bit deeper to smooth out the rough edges and make the story more believable.
The character development was good, making the characters feel “real”. However, I found the story to be unbelievable, at best. I feel the story line could have gone a few different directions which would have made it so much more believable and enjoyable. I was also disappointed that an author would put a minister in the position that she did. That position is a very honorable one, and I think this book discredits that honor.
I would like to have seen the story lengthened to include the healing in the relationship of the hero/heroine. It is not nearly as easy to put it all behind you as what the story portrayed.
I did feel the spiritual threads woven through the story between the hero and heroine were good. I felt that the characters grew spiritually through their experiences, and eventually made decisions that followed scripture.
I would like to see the author edit the manuscript to correct the errors and perhaps dig a bit deeper to smooth out the rough edges and make the story more believable.
February 1, 2015
What God Brings Together by Melissa Wardwell is a heart wrenching story of a couple's love and family rocked by tragedy and how they find the Lord's love and redemption.
Emma met Ryan in high school and knew he was the one.They married and had three beautiful children. When the youngest was a newborn'
a tragic accident leaves Ryan burned and disfigured. He refuses to see his wife, family and leaves town after having served Emma with divorce papers.
Eight years have passed and Emma still feels that Ryan is still a part of her and has not moved on to any other relationship.Emma has gone on to make a life for herself and her children
Mark 10:8-9 is a running theme throughout the book. It shows that when we marry we become one flesh and not let no man separate us.
Emma's strong faith pulls her through the tragedy and guides her when Ryan appears again.
I loved this story and had a box of tissue handy and this is a must read.
A copy of this book was given in exchanged for an honest review
Emma met Ryan in high school and knew he was the one.They married and had three beautiful children. When the youngest was a newborn'
a tragic accident leaves Ryan burned and disfigured. He refuses to see his wife, family and leaves town after having served Emma with divorce papers.
Eight years have passed and Emma still feels that Ryan is still a part of her and has not moved on to any other relationship.Emma has gone on to make a life for herself and her children
Mark 10:8-9 is a running theme throughout the book. It shows that when we marry we become one flesh and not let no man separate us.
Emma's strong faith pulls her through the tragedy and guides her when Ryan appears again.
I loved this story and had a box of tissue handy and this is a must read.
A copy of this book was given in exchanged for an honest review
April 21, 2015
The plotline for this book drew me in quickly. It was heartbreaking to see how one tragedy leads into another. People often assume they know what they would do if tragedy struck. This book was a good example of how this family handled it.
I wanted to feel anything positive for Ryan. I started out wanting to shake him and wake him up because his actions were so disappointing and his need to keep lying was just irritating. Then again, who knows how I would have reacted if I were him.
I felt all kinds of sympathy for Emma but was impressed with how she did manage to pull it together.
My biggest frustrations with this book was that numerous people lied to Emma and when the truth came out she never even questioned them about it. It was extremely unrealistic that whe wasn't even upset.And the kids were so forgiving it was scary.
I am all for foregiveness and turning to God to help you make the right decision, I just thought this story made the journey to healing seem to easy.
I wanted to feel anything positive for Ryan. I started out wanting to shake him and wake him up because his actions were so disappointing and his need to keep lying was just irritating. Then again, who knows how I would have reacted if I were him.
I felt all kinds of sympathy for Emma but was impressed with how she did manage to pull it together.
My biggest frustrations with this book was that numerous people lied to Emma and when the truth came out she never even questioned them about it. It was extremely unrealistic that whe wasn't even upset.And the kids were so forgiving it was scary.
I am all for foregiveness and turning to God to help you make the right decision, I just thought this story made the journey to healing seem to easy.
April 18, 2015
beauty and the beast
I was drawn to this book because of the cover, title and premise of the book. The plotline was unique, and I found the H/ h relatable and easy to identity with and like. I think this is a good book that has the potential to be a great book. I do think the author needs to polish it up some. I don't say this lightly because you can tell she put her heart in it. But I do think the dialogue didn't flow in a natural way in parts of the book, and I think the plot was disjointed in parts. If the author could edit some more it would be a great book of Karen Kingsbury quality. I loved the faith element and the way our hero came to terms with his disfigurement and his great love for his family. It did remind me of beauty and the beast, which I love. 4 star read with potential of being 5 star.
I was drawn to this book because of the cover, title and premise of the book. The plotline was unique, and I found the H/ h relatable and easy to identity with and like. I think this is a good book that has the potential to be a great book. I do think the author needs to polish it up some. I don't say this lightly because you can tell she put her heart in it. But I do think the dialogue didn't flow in a natural way in parts of the book, and I think the plot was disjointed in parts. If the author could edit some more it would be a great book of Karen Kingsbury quality. I loved the faith element and the way our hero came to terms with his disfigurement and his great love for his family. It did remind me of beauty and the beast, which I love. 4 star read with potential of being 5 star.
August 13, 2015
A wonderful story of forgiveness. Ryan is severely burned and hurt in a bad car wreck. He then decides that he doesn't want to be a burden on his family so he divorces his wife of 6 yrs leaving her brokenhearted and trying to raise their 3 children. Years pass and Emma has went on with her life. She has tried dating but it just doesn't seam right. Then a wonderfully sweet man comes into her life and she finds herself falling for David. There is a connection with him that she hasn't had with anyone but Ryan. As she begins to let her heart feel again David ends up in the hospital shot by burglars. Forgiveness is the key to this story and makes for a new beginning. Wonderful things can happen if we get out of God's way.
I received this book as a gift and am writing a review because it is such a good book.
I received this book as a gift and am writing a review because it is such a good book.
February 15, 2016
Sweet romance where forgiveness is the theme
Loved this romance. Well developed characters nd the plot moved smoothly. After been disfigured beyond recognition in an auto accident he thought his family would be better off without him. He stayed gone for eight years while his wife tried to get on with her life. Good thing he let Christ back in his life. I loved how both Ryan and Emma had faith but got aggravated at Ryan for waiting so long for her to learn the truth. A couple people picked up right away he was Ryan instead of David but not Emma but I think deep down she knew in her heart who he was. There is a sequel after this book. I already have it downloaded and plan on reading it next.
Loved this romance. Well developed characters nd the plot moved smoothly. After been disfigured beyond recognition in an auto accident he thought his family would be better off without him. He stayed gone for eight years while his wife tried to get on with her life. Good thing he let Christ back in his life. I loved how both Ryan and Emma had faith but got aggravated at Ryan for waiting so long for her to learn the truth. A couple people picked up right away he was Ryan instead of David but not Emma but I think deep down she knew in her heart who he was. There is a sequel after this book. I already have it downloaded and plan on reading it next.
April 14, 2015
Problems, but worth the read
I did like this story although there were some real issues. The whole premise was just a little hard to believe. She kept insisting he was her soul mate and she could feel his presence, but she was the last one to figure out who he was. The 8 year old daughter that has never even met her dad, climbs up in bed with him, gives a big hug, in a hospital... I just don't see it happening. I don't know how quickly any child would forgive those missing 8 years. And to round things out, there were quite a few editing problems. But I did enjoy the story
I did like this story although there were some real issues. The whole premise was just a little hard to believe. She kept insisting he was her soul mate and she could feel his presence, but she was the last one to figure out who he was. The 8 year old daughter that has never even met her dad, climbs up in bed with him, gives a big hug, in a hospital... I just don't see it happening. I don't know how quickly any child would forgive those missing 8 years. And to round things out, there were quite a few editing problems. But I did enjoy the story
August 14, 2015
Just finished this book! Oh my gosh it's amazing! Melissa Wardwell has done an amazing job bringing the story of Emma & Ryan/David full circle! What an awe-inspiring first novel! A touching story of forgiveness, trust, restoration & love in each other & in the Lord. The characters were genuine & I could relate to their emotions. It took me a couple of months to read, only because I have a one-year old at home keeping be busy, but the book did keep me up late at night. Can't wait for her next book!
January 29, 2015
This is a wonderful debut novel. I was hooked by the characters and the story line in this book from the first pages. I read it in one afternoon because I didn't want to put it down. The author tells an engrossing and beautiful story of a couple torn apart by circumstances and their journey back to one another as they learn to put their trust in God.. I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I definitely look forward to reading more by this author.
March 4, 2015
The book is a poignant story of love, loss and never losing hope in God’s promises. I admired the heroine, Emma and her struggle to rebuild a life for herself and her children following the breakup of her marriage. She never completely let go of her love for Ryan, and believed God could restore what Ryan’s devastating accident had taken from them. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves inspirational romance.
October 12, 2015
This novel portrays a marriage broken by Ryan's horrible car accident. When Emma was left with three kids to raise, her entire world spun out of control. We see rich character development and intense drama as Emma and Ryan go their separate ways for eight years. I loved how God's intervention/leading orchestrated their journeys back to their hometown and each other. This page-turner took us on a roller coaster toward redemption and forgiveness. Highly recommended!
November 18, 2015
What God Brings Together was a marvelous read! Emma and Ryan marry right out of high school have a wonderful beginning but disaster strikes and so the heartbreak too begins. Both Emma and Ryan must deal with the emotions and all the things that life throws at them while trusting God to steer them through it all! What God brings together, let no man tear apart, makes this a great title! All ages will love this book!
January 4, 2016
Oh, how one day in time can change your entire future. I really liked how we were drawn in to both sides. She just wanted to love him and take care of him. She didn't care what the accident had done to him. He didn't want to burden her and the children. The separation, trials of life and finally ending up back in their hometown and getting to know each other again. What God Brings Together was a story of life, faith and redemption. I really enjoyed reading this book!
January 31, 2015
GRIPPING ROMANCE
This book was so well written, I had a hard time putting it down. The author did a wonderful job building tension and suspense as the story unfolded. The characters were well developed and I found myself immersed in their romance. Congratulations to Ms Wardwell on her first novel! I highly recommend this book.
This book was so well written, I had a hard time putting it down. The author did a wonderful job building tension and suspense as the story unfolded. The characters were well developed and I found myself immersed in their romance. Congratulations to Ms Wardwell on her first novel! I highly recommend this book.
April 12, 2015
Great Read
I really enjoyed reading Emma and Ryan's story I think it was a great christian love story wait shows that love and having faith will bring it all back I really enjoyed reading this book.
I really enjoyed reading Emma and Ryan's story I think it was a great christian love story wait shows that love and having faith will bring it all back I really enjoyed reading this book.
October 12, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book! She did a wonderful job of making me care about the characters! You couldn't' but help feeling sorry for them and every character had a role to play in bringing them back together.
January 2, 2016
Awesome Job, Melissa Wardwell! What an intriguing storyline. Enjoyed how the story started and how it developed throughout....didn't want to put it down. Would definitely read other stories by this author!
I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
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January 6, 2016Really liked it!
I couldn't put this down. I was drawn into Emma's life from the beginning. Watching and waiting for God to "act" in Emma and David's lives kept me flipping pages. It is a wonderful book and one that I will recommend to others.
I couldn't put this down. I was drawn into Emma's life from the beginning. Watching and waiting for God to "act" in Emma and David's lives kept me flipping pages. It is a wonderful book and one that I will recommend to others.
February 23, 2015
A very powerful gripping story of love, tragedy and many emotions. The spelling was the only fault I could find. Will definitely recommend this book.
April 11, 2015
Wonderful Christian book
It is so amazing what God will accomplish in our lives if follow the plans He has made for us
It is so amazing what God will accomplish in our lives if follow the plans He has made for us
March 20, 2018
Man can mangle, God can heal
Man can mangle, God can heal. We often waste the time God gives us when we allow ourselves to make decisions without waiting on GOD'S direction. God can take what appears to be impossible situations and make good come, but we don't always allow him to work because we don't SEE how he could ever work out a bad situation. Eight years of more sadness and pain than God likely intended.
Man can mangle, God can heal. We often waste the time God gives us when we allow ourselves to make decisions without waiting on GOD'S direction. God can take what appears to be impossible situations and make good come, but we don't always allow him to work because we don't SEE how he could ever work out a bad situation. Eight years of more sadness and pain than God likely intended.
August 13, 2019
True love never dies
They married young and pledged to be together forever but a major accident put a dent in their plans. Would they ever be able to get past the anger, pain and hurt to find forgiveness? To realize that love never dies when you look past the outer flesh and look through to the heart. An amazing story of faith and hope rekindled and families lost reunited. I can not wait to see where the series goes from here.
They married young and pledged to be together forever but a major accident put a dent in their plans. Would they ever be able to get past the anger, pain and hurt to find forgiveness? To realize that love never dies when you look past the outer flesh and look through to the heart. An amazing story of faith and hope rekindled and families lost reunited. I can not wait to see where the series goes from here.
May 2, 2018
An enjoyable, sweet read about listening to God's gentle voice even when nothing makes sense and following your heart. A reminder that even though tragedy may strike God is ultimately in control and uses those moments for good. This is an entertaining, uplifting novel you should definitely read, and I look forward to reading more from Wardwell.
August 25, 2021
I really got pulled into this story and couldn't stop until I had finished. Heartbreaking in spots and inspiring in others. I didn't agree with Ryan's decision after the accident, though I could see why he would do so. Makes you wonder how you would get through if you were faced with the same situation. I look forward to reading #2 in the series.
February 12, 2017
What God brings together...
An amazing story of forever love. I laughed, cried and cheered through this wonderful story of God's guidance for this couple! I'm looking forward to reading this authors next book.
An amazing story of forever love. I laughed, cried and cheered through this wonderful story of God's guidance for this couple! I'm looking forward to reading this authors next book.
August 21, 2017
Only God can heal this family after a tragedy.
A family torn apart by tragedy. God decides to open the right doors and bring Emma & her children home. David is surprised to see them. Following God's lead takes patience & courage.
A family torn apart by tragedy. God decides to open the right doors and bring Emma & her children home. David is surprised to see them. Following God's lead takes patience & courage.
September 30, 2017
WOW! ! !
This book is soooo Good! It's hard to find a book that touches one so deeply! I am a 71 year old Great grandmother who has been reading since I was 3 years old. Never, ever, have I felt the love of God with such depth, while reading with tears rolling down my face!
This book is soooo Good! It's hard to find a book that touches one so deeply! I am a 71 year old Great grandmother who has been reading since I was 3 years old. Never, ever, have I felt the love of God with such depth, while reading with tears rolling down my face!
October 28, 2017
God is the way
Well written and paced. Enjoyed each character.
Looking forward to more from this author.
This story never lagged in timing
Well written and paced. Enjoyed each character.
Looking forward to more from this author.
This story never lagged in timing
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews