What do you think?
Rate this book
Christmas in Redemption Ridge #15
Playing for Keeps
He let her get away once. Now he’s back, and he’s playing for keeps.
Twelve years ago, Justin McKinnon fell in love with the girl next door—Caroline Taylor—but their families had hated each other for decades, and no one was interested in putting the bad blood aside. What started as a spur-of-the-moment kiss at a barn dance turned into a forbidden, secret romance that would rival Romeo and Juliet.
Caroline Taylor has everything she ever wanted. She owns the best bakery in town, has a loving family, and she’s friends with everyone. So why did she just break up with the perfect guy because he kept dropping hints about proposing. How could she marry him when she’s still hung up on her first love?
When Justin got the chance to get away from his abusive dad and support his elderly grandparents, he took it, but it meant leaving Redemption Ridge—and Caroline—behind.
Now, Justin is back in town and ready to remind Caroline that they belong together despite the family feud hanging over them. Can she trust the man who once broke her heart?
Visit Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series of Christian romance.
This series is a spin-off continuation of the best-selling Heroes of Freedom Ridge Series with all new characters and traditions, but the same magic of community and romance readers love.
Twelve years ago, Justin McKinnon fell in love with the girl next door—Caroline Taylor—but their families had hated each other for decades, and no one was interested in putting the bad blood aside. What started as a spur-of-the-moment kiss at a barn dance turned into a forbidden, secret romance that would rival Romeo and Juliet.
Caroline Taylor has everything she ever wanted. She owns the best bakery in town, has a loving family, and she’s friends with everyone. So why did she just break up with the perfect guy because he kept dropping hints about proposing. How could she marry him when she’s still hung up on her first love?
When Justin got the chance to get away from his abusive dad and support his elderly grandparents, he took it, but it meant leaving Redemption Ridge—and Caroline—behind.
Now, Justin is back in town and ready to remind Caroline that they belong together despite the family feud hanging over them. Can she trust the man who once broke her heart?
Visit Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series of Christian romance.
This series is a spin-off continuation of the best-selling Heroes of Freedom Ridge Series with all new characters and traditions, but the same magic of community and romance readers love.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2025
36 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Blake
43 books818 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 3, 2025
Playing for Keeps by Mandi Blake
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was another great Christmas read by Mandi! She always brings the faith and sweet romance that I enjoy in books! This is a second chance romance story between Justin McKinnon and Caroline Taylor. Their families have hated each other for decades and when Caroline asks Justin to pretend to be her boyfriend one day many years ago, their spur of the moment kiss turned into a secret romance...just like Romeo and Juliet with their feuding families.
Cut to many years later....they still love each other but as things would have it, they went their separate ways unwillingly. Caroline owns the bakery in town but no guy she has dated since Justin has worked out for her. She has been hung up on her first love (Justin) in the back of her mind for so long. Justin is back in town after escaping his abusive father years ago, and is ready to work things out with Caroline, if it be in the Lord's will for them.
Really enjoyed the Christmas elements, family and faith thread in this one. I also loved seeing characters from previous Mandi books from this series. This can be read as a standalone but it's nice knowing characters like Alicia from another book in the series.
We had some great themes of forgiveness and grace and Mandi always points the reader and characters back to Jesus.
Recommended for anyone who loves Christmas Christian Romance books. The romance is clean with no language. Thank you to Mandi for sending me a copy to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was another great Christmas read by Mandi! She always brings the faith and sweet romance that I enjoy in books! This is a second chance romance story between Justin McKinnon and Caroline Taylor. Their families have hated each other for decades and when Caroline asks Justin to pretend to be her boyfriend one day many years ago, their spur of the moment kiss turned into a secret romance...just like Romeo and Juliet with their feuding families.
Cut to many years later....they still love each other but as things would have it, they went their separate ways unwillingly. Caroline owns the bakery in town but no guy she has dated since Justin has worked out for her. She has been hung up on her first love (Justin) in the back of her mind for so long. Justin is back in town after escaping his abusive father years ago, and is ready to work things out with Caroline, if it be in the Lord's will for them.
Really enjoyed the Christmas elements, family and faith thread in this one. I also loved seeing characters from previous Mandi books from this series. This can be read as a standalone but it's nice knowing characters like Alicia from another book in the series.
We had some great themes of forgiveness and grace and Mandi always points the reader and characters back to Jesus.
Recommended for anyone who loves Christmas Christian Romance books. The romance is clean with no language. Thank you to Mandi for sending me a copy to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
October 22, 2025
Happy Release Day, @mandi_blake_author ❤️
Justin & Caroline’s story was so sweet! This one definitely has Romeo & Juliet vibes as these two families have some bad blood. But nothing can keep these two away from each other because they fall in love anyway. Justin leaves town to pursue his baseball career and after more than 10 years apart from Caroline he is back in town.
We also get a glimpse of Justin’s childhood throughout the book. He has been through a lot and whenever Caroline gives him a present his response was heartbreaking and precious all at the same time🥹
I really enjoyed this second chance romance! This one is a sweet and clean Christian romance with kissing only and no foul language.
Quotes ✨
“What are you doing here?” Justin’s arms wound tighter around her, pulling her to him as if she were the only source of water in an endless desert. “Breaking all the rules with a woman I met last night.”
There was no going back now. Even if she walked away, he would never be the same. Whether it was real or not, he felt like someone had made room for him, for the first time in his life. And he wasn’t sure what to do with it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#bookstagram #bookreview #newrelease #authormandiblake #christianromance
Justin & Caroline’s story was so sweet! This one definitely has Romeo & Juliet vibes as these two families have some bad blood. But nothing can keep these two away from each other because they fall in love anyway. Justin leaves town to pursue his baseball career and after more than 10 years apart from Caroline he is back in town.
We also get a glimpse of Justin’s childhood throughout the book. He has been through a lot and whenever Caroline gives him a present his response was heartbreaking and precious all at the same time🥹
I really enjoyed this second chance romance! This one is a sweet and clean Christian romance with kissing only and no foul language.
Quotes ✨
“What are you doing here?” Justin’s arms wound tighter around her, pulling her to him as if she were the only source of water in an endless desert. “Breaking all the rules with a woman I met last night.”
There was no going back now. Even if she walked away, he would never be the same. Whether it was real or not, he felt like someone had made room for him, for the first time in his life. And he wasn’t sure what to do with it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#bookstagram #bookreview #newrelease #authormandiblake #christianromance
October 12, 2025
Only one will do!
Justin’s life was hard to read about; no one should have such a hard start to life. Caroline is really sweet in spite of her broken heart and dreams. I like how Justin determined to show her, not just tell her, that she had always mattered him. The little bit of suspense was a nice touch to the plot. They make a wonderful team!
I enjoy this novel. It was sweet, clean, and reminded us to love like Christ loves us, even those who are hard to love. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Justin’s life was hard to read about; no one should have such a hard start to life. Caroline is really sweet in spite of her broken heart and dreams. I like how Justin determined to show her, not just tell her, that she had always mattered him. The little bit of suspense was a nice touch to the plot. They make a wonderful team!
I enjoy this novel. It was sweet, clean, and reminded us to love like Christ loves us, even those who are hard to love. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
October 10, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
Justin left town for the right reasons but went about it the wrong way. He broke not just Caroline's heart, but his own. Twelve years later, he's back in town as a police officer.
Work and matchmaking friends pull them together. Is there a chance for a do-over?
There's a bit of emotion in this story and lots of love and forgiveness.
Justin left town for the right reasons but went about it the wrong way. He broke not just Caroline's heart, but his own. Twelve years later, he's back in town as a police officer.
Work and matchmaking friends pull them together. Is there a chance for a do-over?
There's a bit of emotion in this story and lots of love and forgiveness.
October 5, 2025
Thirteen years ago Caroline thought she and Justin were it! Then he left to pursue career in baseball. Now Justin is back in town working as a police officer and Caroline is not excited to see him. This is just the beginning for them as friends and a couple. So many things to clear up and work out. But first they need to figure who is stalking her and vandalizing the bakery! Nothing like a shared goal to bring a couple together!
October 22, 2025
3.5⭐
Kinda wished to know about her brother Dom more and what happened to the Donut Haven owner Destiny.
Kinda wished to know about her brother Dom more and what happened to the Donut Haven owner Destiny.
October 20, 2025
4.5 stars
Ah, this was so cute! I adore Mandi Blake’s book and I was excited to read this one. This was such a fun read and it was cool to get back into this series. Playing for Keeps is written by Mandi Blake and it is the 15th book in the multi author series, Christmas in Redemption Ridge
Justin and Carolina had history together but life had pulled them apart. I liked how although Carolina was upset at Justin at times, she was still kind. Poor Justin, he was just trying to figure out life and it was harder than he had thought. They had a lot to work through but I liked how they handled it like adults. They were hurt and scared but they were learning to trust God through their relationship and their future.
The romance was sweet! I liked the jump between present and past, it really helped you get to know the characters. The book was interesting and I was wondering how Justin and Carolina would work past their issues. I loved getting to see old characters again too! Carolina’s family is a lot of fun.
I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it! The characters are lovable and the story is engaging. Playing for Keeps is a clean contemporary Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
Ah, this was so cute! I adore Mandi Blake’s book and I was excited to read this one. This was such a fun read and it was cool to get back into this series. Playing for Keeps is written by Mandi Blake and it is the 15th book in the multi author series, Christmas in Redemption Ridge
Justin and Carolina had history together but life had pulled them apart. I liked how although Carolina was upset at Justin at times, she was still kind. Poor Justin, he was just trying to figure out life and it was harder than he had thought. They had a lot to work through but I liked how they handled it like adults. They were hurt and scared but they were learning to trust God through their relationship and their future.
The romance was sweet! I liked the jump between present and past, it really helped you get to know the characters. The book was interesting and I was wondering how Justin and Carolina would work past their issues. I loved getting to see old characters again too! Carolina’s family is a lot of fun.
I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it! The characters are lovable and the story is engaging. Playing for Keeps is a clean contemporary Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy
October 21, 2025
I know every time I pick up a Mandi Blake book that I’m in for a story full of grace, heart, and healing — and wow, did she deliver again. This second-chance romance in Redemption Ridge was absolutely beautiful.
I loved the flashbacks woven throughout—it made Justin and Caroline’s history feel so real and gave their reunion even more depth. Justin completely stole my heart. His patience, persistence, and quiet care for Caroline made him one of those heroes you can’t help but root for. I loved how he didn’t just tell her she mattered—he showed her in the most tender, intentional ways.
Caroline was such a sweet, kind-hearted heroine still healing from her past, and watching her slowly let herself trust and hope again was so moving. The bit of suspense added just the right touch, but the real magic was in how this story reflected Christlike love—steady, forgiving, and unconditional.
Another heartfelt, binge-worthy read from Mandi Blake that reminds us redemption is always possible and love is worth fighting for.
Thank you Mandi for the ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2025
This second chance, forbidden romance was EVERYTHING 💗 seriously, Mandi is magic with her storytelling.
Caroline. She is a ball of sunshine and happiness ☀️ I loved all the cute baking phrases she would use, and her friendship with Skye was SO CUTE 🥰 watching her let Justin in again was so healing ❤️🩹 and the grace she handled all the challenges she was facing with was amazing ❤️
Justin. He left town 12 years ago, leaving behind his heart 💔 Now he’s back, and he plans on winning Caroline back, except things happen and their second-first meeting goes awry 🍩 🙈 My heart broke for Justin 😭 Living with an abus!ve father left its marks on him, but I LOVED how Caroline helped Justin find peace through Christ 🤍
These two had me kicking my feet and SQUEALING 🤭 the flashbacks to their forbidden romance 12 years ago, meshed with the current day was PERFECTION 💋 and then the added suspense surrounding Caroline’s store was SO GOOD!
I loved the faith aspects of it so much 🕊️ The peace found through prayer and Christ is such a light, and the strength they found through Jesus to forgive was amazing 💗
⚠️ CW: abus!ve father, threats ⚠️
Caroline. She is a ball of sunshine and happiness ☀️ I loved all the cute baking phrases she would use, and her friendship with Skye was SO CUTE 🥰 watching her let Justin in again was so healing ❤️🩹 and the grace she handled all the challenges she was facing with was amazing ❤️
Justin. He left town 12 years ago, leaving behind his heart 💔 Now he’s back, and he plans on winning Caroline back, except things happen and their second-first meeting goes awry 🍩 🙈 My heart broke for Justin 😭 Living with an abus!ve father left its marks on him, but I LOVED how Caroline helped Justin find peace through Christ 🤍
These two had me kicking my feet and SQUEALING 🤭 the flashbacks to their forbidden romance 12 years ago, meshed with the current day was PERFECTION 💋 and then the added suspense surrounding Caroline’s store was SO GOOD!
I loved the faith aspects of it so much 🕊️ The peace found through prayer and Christ is such a light, and the strength they found through Jesus to forgive was amazing 💗
⚠️ CW: abus!ve father, threats ⚠️
October 20, 2025
4.5 stars
I’ve been following many of the books in this small town Christmas series, and I was excited for another one from Mandi Blake. I love all of her books and this one was no exception. This Christian contemporary romance had second chances with a touch of suspense. Our MCs were sweethearts 13 years ago in a Romeo and Juliet-esque forbidden romance. When Justin left Caroline behind to play professional baseball, it broke both of their hearts. Now, he’s returned to his hometown as a cop and Caroline has her job running the bakery she always dreamed of. With some vandalism and threats thrown in the mix, this book has a good selection of draws. Justin has just the sweetest heart. As his dad (who abused him) seriously wounded Caroline’s dad years ago, there is fear for whether their families will accept them. This book is set in two time periods - present day and 13 years ago. We get a sweet and swoony story from both time periods. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Content: child abuse
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I’ve been following many of the books in this small town Christmas series, and I was excited for another one from Mandi Blake. I love all of her books and this one was no exception. This Christian contemporary romance had second chances with a touch of suspense. Our MCs were sweethearts 13 years ago in a Romeo and Juliet-esque forbidden romance. When Justin left Caroline behind to play professional baseball, it broke both of their hearts. Now, he’s returned to his hometown as a cop and Caroline has her job running the bakery she always dreamed of. With some vandalism and threats thrown in the mix, this book has a good selection of draws. Justin has just the sweetest heart. As his dad (who abused him) seriously wounded Caroline’s dad years ago, there is fear for whether their families will accept them. This book is set in two time periods - present day and 13 years ago. We get a sweet and swoony story from both time periods. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Content: child abuse
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 22, 2025
This was a sweet and swoony Christmas romance with a dash of suspense!
Justin and Caroline were sweet. I loved his protection of Caroline and his persistence in winning her back.
I loved Caroline's adorable & hilarious phrases. Especially because my real life pause word is "crumbmuffins" 🤣🎉
Past History
Swoon
Grand Gestures
Second Chance
First Love
Forbidden Romance
Faith Inspired
Baker FMC
Baseball to Police MMC
It's always been you
Found Family
Thank you Mandi for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.
Justin and Caroline were sweet. I loved his protection of Caroline and his persistence in winning her back.
I loved Caroline's adorable & hilarious phrases. Especially because my real life pause word is "crumbmuffins" 🤣🎉
Past History
Swoon
Grand Gestures
Second Chance
First Love
Forbidden Romance
Faith Inspired
Baker FMC
Baseball to Police MMC
It's always been you
Found Family
Thank you Mandi for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.
October 13, 2025
Playing for Keeps is another great book in the Christmas in Redemption Ridge Series. This book has secret, forbidden romance, second chance romance, a little family feud, and a little mystery. I enjoyed the bakery setting, and the creative expressions “ah sprinkles”, “for the love of cotton candy” etc.
This book is the perfect, shorter length for a busy time of year, and another winner by Mandi Blake.
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.
This book is the perfect, shorter length for a busy time of year, and another winner by Mandi Blake.
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.
October 13, 2025
Oh, what a great book! Caroline had definitely been hurt by Justin when he left years before, but the path to their happily-ever-after was so well written. Justin worked hard to reach Caroline, though it was tough going to start with. There were so many sweet and swoony moments during the story as Justin and Caroline began to work together on their relationship. Faith and forgiveness were woven throughout, and the author did a wonderful job making everything flow together well.
October 21, 2025
Justin and Caroline had a teenage romance, totally under the radar of their families who did not get along. Justin left town to pursue his sports career and Caroline remained behind eventually opening her own popular bakery in town. Justin is now back as a member of the town police force, and is determined to win Caroline back but someone is threatening her business. Exciting and delightful second chance romance.
October 22, 2025
Thirteen years ago Caroline and Justin’s love seemed enough even if it was hiding from the town. But when Justin left Caroline to play professional baseball he broke her heart. Now he is back in town and ready to show her he is committed to win her heart back. Faith, friendship, danger, forgiveness and so much more in this beautiful second chance love story.
October 16, 2025
Justin & Caroline were the perfect second chance story!
Their history was heart wrenching but it made their reunion that much sweeter! I loved how Caroline helped Justin find his faith and how he carried that with him even when they were apart. He is proof that people can reshape their lives when they focus on God. I loved how hard he worked and how determined he was to be there for Caroline, even before she was ready to fully trust him again.
Caroline was an amazing character. I don't think I could show half as much grace and kindness as she did throughout this book, it's no wonder Justin loved and admired her, even when they were young.
Overall, I loved this Christmas story! Also, getting to catch up with some of Caroline's brothers from past books in this series was a treat as well! Definitely add this to your Christmas TBR this year!
Their history was heart wrenching but it made their reunion that much sweeter! I loved how Caroline helped Justin find his faith and how he carried that with him even when they were apart. He is proof that people can reshape their lives when they focus on God. I loved how hard he worked and how determined he was to be there for Caroline, even before she was ready to fully trust him again.
Caroline was an amazing character. I don't think I could show half as much grace and kindness as she did throughout this book, it's no wonder Justin loved and admired her, even when they were young.
Overall, I loved this Christmas story! Also, getting to catch up with some of Caroline's brothers from past books in this series was a treat as well! Definitely add this to your Christmas TBR this year!
October 21, 2025
Very sweet story. I really liked both Justin and Caroline. Justin was so sweet and thoughtful, and Caroline was a ray of sweet sunshine. I thought her little bakery sayings were so cute. The suspense subplot was a great addition, well done. I always enjoy the goodness in Mandi's characters and the healing and redemption themes, especially within a family.
October 22, 2025
Really Great Christian Series
Another great book in a great series. I loved Caroline and Justin's story. Theirs is a wonderful Christmas Christian story and a second chance romance. The story is full of faith , forgiveness and love and a wonderful read.
Another great book in a great series. I loved Caroline and Justin's story. Theirs is a wonderful Christmas Christian story and a second chance romance. The story is full of faith , forgiveness and love and a wonderful read.
October 13, 2025
The one that got away was for both of them. I Enjoyed the back and forth relationship of the characters. The spiritual influence is great in this book. I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2025
Aw! In this story we Caroline (Jordan & Clint’s sister) gets her HEA. Justine’s humility about his errors and his dedication to Caroline are just the sweetest things. The backdrop of the issues with the sabotage of the bakery makes you keep turning pages. The ending was just perfect and beautiful. I know there won’t be any more Madi books in Redemption Ridge after this one, but I hope Madi still writes a novel dealing with Dom. That sounds like a story we need to know!
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
October 22, 2025
I loved Justin and Caroline's story. It is a great second chance story, with forgiveness, a little mystery and suspense and a whole lot of sweet romance.
October 20, 2025
A solid 4.75 star novella from Mandi Blake ! Loved reading this ❤️
October 22, 2025
The best book I’ve read in forever! Justin and Caroline captured my heart from the very first page — a darling couple I couldn’t help but cheer for as they found their way back to one another. The way God’s love and forgiveness are woven through their story is absolutely beautiful — moving, genuine, and never overdone. It quietly reminded me to pause and be grateful for all He’s done in my own life.
I read it everywhere — in the car, over my morning coffee, and far too late at night — because I simply couldn’t stop turning the pages. Some stories are wonderful, but others linger long after the last word… the kind that leave a forever mark on your heart and memory. This one is unforgettable.
Spice level: Sweet, with only kissing.
I read it everywhere — in the car, over my morning coffee, and far too late at night — because I simply couldn’t stop turning the pages. Some stories are wonderful, but others linger long after the last word… the kind that leave a forever mark on your heart and memory. This one is unforgettable.
Spice level: Sweet, with only kissing.
October 17, 2025
Im not sure there has ever been a Mandi Blake book that I didnt love & enjoy. Justin & Caroline get a second chance at love but not without a little mystery first. The whitty sweet treat words that Caroline uses were the icing on the cake! (pun intended). Super precious second chance romance.
October 15, 2025
From the opening chapter, Mandi captivates you. If you have read her previous books in this series, then you grow the complicated relationship between the Taylor’s and Justin’s family. I love the romance now and back then between these two. I love the healing that occurs. This book has depth, sweetness, a bit of mystery, etc. It’s a great read.
October 20, 2025
I love a good second chance romance and this one didn't disappoint. Justin didn't expect an instantaneous reconciliation but was so sweet and truly sought Caroline's forgiveness - one grand gesture after another. Seeing them really communicate and listen to each other made me smile - smiling while writing this. Who is vandalizing her bakery? Why? One mystery that kept me guessing. Loved the ending!!!
October 22, 2025
5/5
🚨TW: mentions about being abuse, murder, loss of love ones, sabotaging, making people’s life miserable, harassment.
Favourite Moments
👩🍳 When they first met
👮♂️His friends and her friends matchmaking them (can’t spoil it)
👩🍳 Him getting chased by the women
👮♂️ Their past moments together.
👩🍳 Him trying to win back her heart that he broke
👮♂️ His grand gestures (read to find out)
👩🍳 Her trying to make him go away by scaring him with chores (so funny)
👮♂️ The surprise dinner
👩🍳 He became Santa Claus?? (can’t spoil it)
👮♂️ Him protecting her (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
👮♂️ He falls for her
👮♂️ He never stops loving and cares for her.
👮♂️ He will do anything to protect and help her.
👮♂️ He is a hopeless romantic and a gentleman.
👮♂️ He shows his vulnerable side.
Synopsis:
Justin
A former baseballer who is a police officer. He never stop loving his very first love who cares for him deeply unlike his father who abuses him.
Caroline
A baker who owns a bakery shop who still in love with her first love who left her. Her store is been targeted by someone and had been harassed ever since both physical and also online.
Justin left Caroline and Caroline was deeply hurt about it. Now that he is back in Redemption Ridge,he is trying his best to apologize and explain why he did what he did. With his friends help he tries to win back her heart. What a viral post? And someone is trying to ruin her store? Will he be able to win her heart? Will she able to forgive him and give him a second chance?
Review:
These two are just so sweet to each other. I love the moments that they shared during their past and she is always there for him whenever he needed her especially when his father abuses him and also he felt bad for her family too when his father had been making her family’s life miserable. (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out) There is a reason of why he left her but he tried to apologize and explain to her she doesn’t want to hear it because he had hurt her deeply. With the help of his friends and her sis-in-law, he managed to apologize and explain to her why he did what he did and also loving the fact that he did sweet grand gestures to win back her heart. Love that she forgives him and also, they open up to each other and he was there for her when someone is trying to ruin her store and also sabotaging her.
He helps her in her shop whenever he can to make her trust him again and also, they both shared the same thing which is they are compassionate to the people around them and want everyone to be happy. She is the on who bring him into knowing God. And ever since then he had relied on God for everything and even have the strength to forgive his father who hurt him before. This book made me smile, laugh, swoon, also wanting to be part of the winning her heart team, and also feeling God’s love shown in this story and even the true meaning of Christmas in this story too.
What I learn from this story:
Forgiveness and also loving your enemies. It is hard to love your enemies and forgiving them for what hurtful things that they had done to you. Caroline and Justin show forgiveness to the people who hurt them and also showing God’s love to them because God loves all of us and forgive us no matter how bad we are. It’s hard I know but with God’s help we can do it. Continue to pray and seek God for wisdom and strength to love our enemies.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 3rd book of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge Season 3 series. It is a series that is written by a few authors. Can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.
🚨TW: mentions about being abuse, murder, loss of love ones, sabotaging, making people’s life miserable, harassment.
Favourite Moments
👩🍳 When they first met
👮♂️His friends and her friends matchmaking them (can’t spoil it)
👩🍳 Him getting chased by the women
👮♂️ Their past moments together.
👩🍳 Him trying to win back her heart that he broke
👮♂️ His grand gestures (read to find out)
👩🍳 Her trying to make him go away by scaring him with chores (so funny)
👮♂️ The surprise dinner
👩🍳 He became Santa Claus?? (can’t spoil it)
👮♂️ Him protecting her (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
👮♂️ He falls for her
👮♂️ He never stops loving and cares for her.
👮♂️ He will do anything to protect and help her.
👮♂️ He is a hopeless romantic and a gentleman.
👮♂️ He shows his vulnerable side.
Synopsis:
Justin
A former baseballer who is a police officer. He never stop loving his very first love who cares for him deeply unlike his father who abuses him.
Caroline
A baker who owns a bakery shop who still in love with her first love who left her. Her store is been targeted by someone and had been harassed ever since both physical and also online.
Justin left Caroline and Caroline was deeply hurt about it. Now that he is back in Redemption Ridge,he is trying his best to apologize and explain why he did what he did. With his friends help he tries to win back her heart. What a viral post? And someone is trying to ruin her store? Will he be able to win her heart? Will she able to forgive him and give him a second chance?
Review:
These two are just so sweet to each other. I love the moments that they shared during their past and she is always there for him whenever he needed her especially when his father abuses him and also he felt bad for her family too when his father had been making her family’s life miserable. (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out) There is a reason of why he left her but he tried to apologize and explain to her she doesn’t want to hear it because he had hurt her deeply. With the help of his friends and her sis-in-law, he managed to apologize and explain to her why he did what he did and also loving the fact that he did sweet grand gestures to win back her heart. Love that she forgives him and also, they open up to each other and he was there for her when someone is trying to ruin her store and also sabotaging her.
He helps her in her shop whenever he can to make her trust him again and also, they both shared the same thing which is they are compassionate to the people around them and want everyone to be happy. She is the on who bring him into knowing God. And ever since then he had relied on God for everything and even have the strength to forgive his father who hurt him before. This book made me smile, laugh, swoon, also wanting to be part of the winning her heart team, and also feeling God’s love shown in this story and even the true meaning of Christmas in this story too.
What I learn from this story:
Forgiveness and also loving your enemies. It is hard to love your enemies and forgiving them for what hurtful things that they had done to you. Caroline and Justin show forgiveness to the people who hurt them and also showing God’s love to them because God loves all of us and forgive us no matter how bad we are. It’s hard I know but with God’s help we can do it. Continue to pray and seek God for wisdom and strength to love our enemies.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author for the ARC.
This is the 3rd book of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge Season 3 series. It is a series that is written by a few authors. Can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.
October 20, 2025
Playing for Keeps is another wonderful romance from best selling author Mandi Blake, and is a lovely redemption story with a beautiful faith element effortlessly blended right in. Mandi is one of my all time favorite authors, and I always look forward to getting to read her new book releases. I've come to love all the stories she's written that focus around the Taylor family and their issues throughout the years with the McKinnon's, so knowing this one was going to be the star crossed lovers story between two people from these families, I knew I was going to be in for a real treat and she definitely did not disappoint.
This sweet romance had so many of my favorite tropes all wrapped up into one, as aside from being a redemption story and a star crossed lovers story, it's also a second chance romance since Caroline Taylor and Justin McKinnon first fell in love as teenagers. Now it's many years later, but neither have ever forgotten or gotten over their first love, and when Justin moves back to Freedom Ridge after years of being an MLB player, he's determined to fix things with the one he let go.
Caroline and Justin's romance is sweet, swoon worthy and heart wrenching, and I continue to love how Mandi Blake never backs down from writing about the hard things. And of course, my favorite part of her stories continues to be her beautiful illustrations of faith and what it truly means to follow Jesus, and I love that she always balances out her suspense with the light that comes from knowing and being known by Him.
I'm not surprised whatsoever that this ended up being another one of my favorite reads of the year, and I can't possibly recommend this heartwarming story enough.
If you love clean, faith based romances than this is the book for you, and if you've never had the pleasure of reading a book by Mandi before, then this is the perfect one to start with.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Mandi Blake for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author as part of her ARC team. I was not required to give a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This sweet romance had so many of my favorite tropes all wrapped up into one, as aside from being a redemption story and a star crossed lovers story, it's also a second chance romance since Caroline Taylor and Justin McKinnon first fell in love as teenagers. Now it's many years later, but neither have ever forgotten or gotten over their first love, and when Justin moves back to Freedom Ridge after years of being an MLB player, he's determined to fix things with the one he let go.
Caroline and Justin's romance is sweet, swoon worthy and heart wrenching, and I continue to love how Mandi Blake never backs down from writing about the hard things. And of course, my favorite part of her stories continues to be her beautiful illustrations of faith and what it truly means to follow Jesus, and I love that she always balances out her suspense with the light that comes from knowing and being known by Him.
I'm not surprised whatsoever that this ended up being another one of my favorite reads of the year, and I can't possibly recommend this heartwarming story enough.
If you love clean, faith based romances than this is the book for you, and if you've never had the pleasure of reading a book by Mandi before, then this is the perfect one to start with.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Mandi Blake for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author as part of her ARC team. I was not required to give a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
A heartwarming Christmas love story!
Twelve years ago, Caroline Taylor and Justin McKinnon shared a secret, forbidden romance torn apart by a long-standing family feud. Now, Caroline has built a picture-perfect life, but breaking up with her almost-fiancé reveals she’s still not over her first love.
When Justin returns to Redemption Ridge, determined to win her back, old feelings resurface fast. But with their families still at odds and a painful past between them, Caroline must decide if she can trust Justin with her heart again.
What you'll love:
second chance romance
dual pov
retired baseball player
bakery owner
police officer MMC
found family
small town vibes
the barn dance
holiday vibes
protective hero
forbidden romance
that kiss!!
The only thing better than a small-town second chance romance is one that takes place during the holidays! Watching Justin try to win back Caroline was exactly what I needed under my Christmas tree this year. It is the perfect blend of heart and swoon!
I especially loved the flashbacks to the early days of their relationship because it made me even more invested in their happily ever after. Justin was patient, persistent, and so intentional in proving that Caroline could trust him again, not just with her bakery, but with her heart. The way he looked out for her and quietly took care of her was so swoony and that ending was absolutely worth the wait!
This is part of a multi-author series and is connected to another book by this author, but it reads perfectly as a standalone. If you love holiday romances with heart, swoony second chances, and heroes who show up when it matters most, this one belongs on your holiday TBR this year! 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Twelve years ago, Caroline Taylor and Justin McKinnon shared a secret, forbidden romance torn apart by a long-standing family feud. Now, Caroline has built a picture-perfect life, but breaking up with her almost-fiancé reveals she’s still not over her first love.
When Justin returns to Redemption Ridge, determined to win her back, old feelings resurface fast. But with their families still at odds and a painful past between them, Caroline must decide if she can trust Justin with her heart again.
What you'll love:
second chance romance
dual pov
retired baseball player
bakery owner
police officer MMC
found family
small town vibes
the barn dance
holiday vibes
protective hero
forbidden romance
that kiss!!
The only thing better than a small-town second chance romance is one that takes place during the holidays! Watching Justin try to win back Caroline was exactly what I needed under my Christmas tree this year. It is the perfect blend of heart and swoon!
I especially loved the flashbacks to the early days of their relationship because it made me even more invested in their happily ever after. Justin was patient, persistent, and so intentional in proving that Caroline could trust him again, not just with her bakery, but with her heart. The way he looked out for her and quietly took care of her was so swoony and that ending was absolutely worth the wait!
This is part of a multi-author series and is connected to another book by this author, but it reads perfectly as a standalone. If you love holiday romances with heart, swoony second chances, and heroes who show up when it matters most, this one belongs on your holiday TBR this year! 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
October 14, 2025
🎄🗻My Thoughts🗻🎄
🎄This book is part of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series. This is the third book I have read in this series and I need to go and read the rest of the series. I always enjoy Mandi Blake’s books and this one is no different.
🗻With this book we have Caroline and Justin and they were madly in love thirteen years ago. Justin left town after getting picked up in the major leagues and never asked Caroline if she wanted to come. Now he is retired from playing baseball and is back trying to get Caroline to forgive him for leaving her all those years ago and to give him another shot.
🎄I absolute adored both Caroline and Justin. I felt so bad for Justin and the way he grew up with an alcoholic father who never really took care of him. Caroline is living her dream of owning The Cakery a bakery that has been in town since she was little but someone keeps threatening her and her business. I love that added mystery of who was threatening her and kept vandalizing her bakery.
🗻I love the faith most of all! Mandi always does an amazing job of just weaving it into a story seamlessly and I always find myself tearing up at those moments. I loved seeing Justin being persistent to show Caroline that he wasn’t going to go anywhere this time that he was there to stay. I also loved seeing the timeline from thirteen years ago as it added to the depth of the feelings between them.
🎄Overall this is such a cute, sweet, Christmas novella that is perfect for the busy month of December when your looking for short books you can finish in an afternoon to relax and unwind from the stress of the holidays. I really enjoyed this one and would highly recomend any of her books!
🗻Thank you Mandi Blake for sending me an e-arc to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🎄This book is part of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series. This is the third book I have read in this series and I need to go and read the rest of the series. I always enjoy Mandi Blake’s books and this one is no different.
🗻With this book we have Caroline and Justin and they were madly in love thirteen years ago. Justin left town after getting picked up in the major leagues and never asked Caroline if she wanted to come. Now he is retired from playing baseball and is back trying to get Caroline to forgive him for leaving her all those years ago and to give him another shot.
🎄I absolute adored both Caroline and Justin. I felt so bad for Justin and the way he grew up with an alcoholic father who never really took care of him. Caroline is living her dream of owning The Cakery a bakery that has been in town since she was little but someone keeps threatening her and her business. I love that added mystery of who was threatening her and kept vandalizing her bakery.
🗻I love the faith most of all! Mandi always does an amazing job of just weaving it into a story seamlessly and I always find myself tearing up at those moments. I loved seeing Justin being persistent to show Caroline that he wasn’t going to go anywhere this time that he was there to stay. I also loved seeing the timeline from thirteen years ago as it added to the depth of the feelings between them.
🎄Overall this is such a cute, sweet, Christmas novella that is perfect for the busy month of December when your looking for short books you can finish in an afternoon to relax and unwind from the stress of the holidays. I really enjoyed this one and would highly recomend any of her books!
🗻Thank you Mandi Blake for sending me an e-arc to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews