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I Know the Feeling
They say timing is everything.
ER Nurse Maddie Reed is barely keeping her head above water at work. She certainly doesn’t have time to take over directing the children's Christmas play at church. But when the director is put on bedrest at the last minute, Maddie can’t say no. The children are counting on her!
Maddie agrees to step up, prepared for the worst. Turns out “the worst” is worse than she thought. Her new assistant director is Chris Calvert, the most obnoxious man on the planet. To say they have history is an understatement.
Maddie braces for a disastrous month of pranks and shenanigans, but something about Chris is different. Working with him wasn’t supposed to be good, much less great. And when Maddie’s painful past shows up, Chris’ friendship proves steady again and again.
Maddie wrote Chris off a long time ago, but now she wonders. Is it possible to leave behind the old and let something new grow?
ER Nurse Maddie Reed is barely keeping her head above water at work. She certainly doesn’t have time to take over directing the children's Christmas play at church. But when the director is put on bedrest at the last minute, Maddie can’t say no. The children are counting on her!
Maddie agrees to step up, prepared for the worst. Turns out “the worst” is worse than she thought. Her new assistant director is Chris Calvert, the most obnoxious man on the planet. To say they have history is an understatement.
Maddie braces for a disastrous month of pranks and shenanigans, but something about Chris is different. Working with him wasn’t supposed to be good, much less great. And when Maddie’s painful past shows up, Chris’ friendship proves steady again and again.
Maddie wrote Chris off a long time ago, but now she wonders. Is it possible to leave behind the old and let something new grow?
- GenresRomance
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
About the author
Kelli Galyean
2 books21 followersKelli Galyean is a Christian speaker and author, whose mission is to encourage women in every season of life, for the glory of God. She lives with her family in Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 30, 2025
4.75 stars!
This was a great story. I really enjoyed it. Maddie and Chris have both had heartbreak in their pasts. Chris is the youth pastor and Maddie is a nurse. They went on two dates and then Chris didn’t ask for a third. Now they are forced to work together to put on the Christmas program for the church. I really liked how they worked together on the program and showed maturity. I loved that it reconnected them as well. I felt bad for both of them with their past loves. There were some fun moments as well in the story. I liked how well she got along with his family. I also liked how caring he was to help his sister. There were a couple minor things I didn’t like but overall it was really good. Great Christian content.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Content: she runs out of the bathroom in a towel due to a frog prank(nothing exposed), she walks into bathroom while he is in the shower to play prank on him (sees nothing), he takes his shirt off due to an injury and she ogles him a little,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was a great story. I really enjoyed it. Maddie and Chris have both had heartbreak in their pasts. Chris is the youth pastor and Maddie is a nurse. They went on two dates and then Chris didn’t ask for a third. Now they are forced to work together to put on the Christmas program for the church. I really liked how they worked together on the program and showed maturity. I loved that it reconnected them as well. I felt bad for both of them with their past loves. There were some fun moments as well in the story. I liked how well she got along with his family. I also liked how caring he was to help his sister. There were a couple minor things I didn’t like but overall it was really good. Great Christian content.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Content: she runs out of the bathroom in a towel due to a frog prank(nothing exposed), she walks into bathroom while he is in the shower to play prank on him (sees nothing), he takes his shirt off due to an injury and she ogles him a little,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 25, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This was my second ever book by this author and let me tell you, her writing is truly something SPECIAL! While this is book two in the “A Work in Progress” series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Kelli’s writing feels incredibly authentic. The characters and their relationships come to life and jump off the pages. You so quickly become invested in the story. There’s a level of depth and rawness to her stories that make them relatable. This is Christian fiction and so far, books one and two have both involved main characters who are in ministry. I’m so very grateful for authors like Kelli who aren’t afraid to shy away from the very real and honest highs and lows of these characters’ faith journeys. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again – I’m not someone who NEEDS romance in their books, but if it’s there I love and appreciate depth and Kelli knows how to bring that.
Maddie is a bit in over her head with her new position as an ER nurse. As many of us can surely relate, we say “yes” to things even when we really don’t have the time – which is exactly what Maddie does when asked to take on directing the children’s Christmas play at her church. Her assistant is Chris Calvert who oversees the youth ministry. Well, Maddie and Chris have a complicated past together and Maddie sees him as an immature pain in the butt to be honest. She soon realizes that something about him is different though. He seems to have grown and matured into someone she hardly recognizes. They strike up a newfound friendship.
There’s a lot more to this story than what I just explained above – deeper threads of complicated pasts for both and a few surprises along the way. Not going to share and spoil here though. ;)
Maddie and Chris are going to feel like friends or family to you while reading. A beautiful story from start to finish and a great reminder that we need to let God’s timing reign over the timeline we so often set for ourselves.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This was my second ever book by this author and let me tell you, her writing is truly something SPECIAL! While this is book two in the “A Work in Progress” series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Kelli’s writing feels incredibly authentic. The characters and their relationships come to life and jump off the pages. You so quickly become invested in the story. There’s a level of depth and rawness to her stories that make them relatable. This is Christian fiction and so far, books one and two have both involved main characters who are in ministry. I’m so very grateful for authors like Kelli who aren’t afraid to shy away from the very real and honest highs and lows of these characters’ faith journeys. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again – I’m not someone who NEEDS romance in their books, but if it’s there I love and appreciate depth and Kelli knows how to bring that.
Maddie is a bit in over her head with her new position as an ER nurse. As many of us can surely relate, we say “yes” to things even when we really don’t have the time – which is exactly what Maddie does when asked to take on directing the children’s Christmas play at her church. Her assistant is Chris Calvert who oversees the youth ministry. Well, Maddie and Chris have a complicated past together and Maddie sees him as an immature pain in the butt to be honest. She soon realizes that something about him is different though. He seems to have grown and matured into someone she hardly recognizes. They strike up a newfound friendship.
There’s a lot more to this story than what I just explained above – deeper threads of complicated pasts for both and a few surprises along the way. Not going to share and spoil here though. ;)
Maddie and Chris are going to feel like friends or family to you while reading. A beautiful story from start to finish and a great reminder that we need to let God’s timing reign over the timeline we so often set for ourselves.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
October 30, 2025
I have to admit that this book made me do a complete 180 on Youth Guy Chris from the previous book in this series, How Can It Be? To say that Chris initially came across as obnoxious and desperately in need of much maturity is an understatement. Thankfully, Kelli Galyean not only peels back a layer on Chris’ behaviour to reveal what is happening in his life, but she also writes him in such a way as to make him endearing and leading man material by the end of the story. This is one of the best books I've read where we get to see someone undergo intense discipleship coupled with accountability, where spiritual fruit emerges and lasting change takes place.
I appreciate that Maddie herself is able to observe these transformations and realize just how committed Chris is to sanctification. It's not rushed, and God's timing becomes central to the entire story. Their romance is certainly worth the wait based on how carefully they listen to the Holy Spirit before proceeding with anything. Readers looking for a refreshing romance where reliance on God is paramount to their success as a couple will cheer on Maddie and Chris in this beautiful piece about how we are all works in progress, created for so much more than the habits we fall into.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
I appreciate that Maddie herself is able to observe these transformations and realize just how committed Chris is to sanctification. It's not rushed, and God's timing becomes central to the entire story. Their romance is certainly worth the wait based on how carefully they listen to the Holy Spirit before proceeding with anything. Readers looking for a refreshing romance where reliance on God is paramount to their success as a couple will cheer on Maddie and Chris in this beautiful piece about how we are all works in progress, created for so much more than the habits we fall into.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
Ever since reading How Can It Be, I have wanted a redemption arc for Youth Guy Chris. Honey, this is his moment!! The growth in his character is absolutely there, and it’s authentic, happening over time and in result to life circumstances that are hard. I deeply love how Kelli makes us grapple with the fact that we often don’t know the whole of a person— what they are dealing with, what they are masking, or how they are trying to grow— unless we seek to know them more fully.
This book deals with heavier topics like abandonment, divorce, grief, and maturity but in a light way that stays true to what has become the author’s voice in this series. I was able to read it without feeling the full force of despair, while also caring deeply for the characters and their stories. (This is my official request/petition for Chelsea to get her own story!👀)
Maddie’s character is so nurturing and hesitant. I was in the background (as a resident youth pastor wife) goading her on. So so so many times I was hollering at my Kindle screen— “girl… GET YOUR MAN!” The tension and the yearning on both counts really leant to the sweet chemistry in this book. 10/10
Practically, the behind-the-scenes of youth ministry/church work were so heartwarming to see on the page. I don’t know that I’ve ever felt so represented by a contemporary romance. When YGC says “we’re not just glorified babysitters…” 📢 PREACH. “But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17 NASB1995 Ministry is WORK honey, and work we take on gladly. It sits heavy on the shoulders. Youth Guy Chris’s character really illustrated that well.
FOTMS: 🫑.
This book deals with heavier topics like abandonment, divorce, grief, and maturity but in a light way that stays true to what has become the author’s voice in this series. I was able to read it without feeling the full force of despair, while also caring deeply for the characters and their stories. (This is my official request/petition for Chelsea to get her own story!👀)
Maddie’s character is so nurturing and hesitant. I was in the background (as a resident youth pastor wife) goading her on. So so so many times I was hollering at my Kindle screen— “girl… GET YOUR MAN!” The tension and the yearning on both counts really leant to the sweet chemistry in this book. 10/10
Practically, the behind-the-scenes of youth ministry/church work were so heartwarming to see on the page. I don’t know that I’ve ever felt so represented by a contemporary romance. When YGC says “we’re not just glorified babysitters…” 📢 PREACH. “But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17 NASB1995 Ministry is WORK honey, and work we take on gladly. It sits heavy on the shoulders. Youth Guy Chris’s character really illustrated that well.
FOTMS: 🫑.
January 15, 2026
I Know The Feeling is an utterly charming and delightful, faith-based romance that wraps you up in a warm hug and leaves you feeling content. This story strikes a beautiful balance of faith, humor, and depth. Kelli brings Chris and Maddie to life in a way that feels realistic and relatable—their dynamic feels genuine, like something you could see unfolding among your own friends. It’s a light, playful read with plenty of banter, yet thoughtful and meaningful faith elements are woven throughout, giving the story real substance without making it feel heavy.
Chris and Maddie are so sweet together, and I was invested in their story from the very beginning. At one point, Chris tells Maddie, “Everybody’s an onion,” and his character embodies that sentiment perfectly. While Chris has a reputation for being immature and obnoxious, Maddie begins to notice how much he’s grown as they serve alongside one another, slowly changing her opinion of him. He’s still fun and playful, but he also shows real strength and depth. I loved how Kelli highlights the value of professional counseling, discipleship, and accountability. Watching Chris and Maddie be vulnerable with one another and seeing their friendship deepen was especially meaningful. As old feelings resurface, they have to decide if they’re willing to risk their friendship for something more. The way they value each other and their relationship is incredibly sweet. Chris’s tender care toward Maddie absolutely made me melt.
I Know The Feeling is a story about first impressions, second chances, forgiveness, and trusting in God’s timing. Kelli doesn’t shy away from messy, real-world topics, handling them with honesty, grace, and hope.
If you enjoy uplifting, faith-based romcoms with authentic characters, swoony sweetness, flirty banter, and thoughtful layers, you will love this book.
✨Includes:✨
Youth Pastor
ER Nurse
Second Chance
Anxiety Rep
Trusting God’s Timing
Forced Collaboration
Pranks
Discipleship
Counseling
Church Christmas Play
Christian Romance
Closed Door
Kisses Only
Favorites:
🤯Self awareness & personal growth
😉Flirty banter
💞He calls her Reed
❤️🩹Chris and Maddie’s vulnerability
🧅”Everybody’s an onion, Reed.”
🧡East Texas weekend
🐸All the frogs
🤣The Calverts
🏈Family football + rooster + first aid
💃🏼Wedding date + dancing
🥹Misunderstanding then clarity
🥰Third chances
✝️Chris’ heart for ministry
🎉Team Maddie
Thank you Kelli Gaylean for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Chris and Maddie are so sweet together, and I was invested in their story from the very beginning. At one point, Chris tells Maddie, “Everybody’s an onion,” and his character embodies that sentiment perfectly. While Chris has a reputation for being immature and obnoxious, Maddie begins to notice how much he’s grown as they serve alongside one another, slowly changing her opinion of him. He’s still fun and playful, but he also shows real strength and depth. I loved how Kelli highlights the value of professional counseling, discipleship, and accountability. Watching Chris and Maddie be vulnerable with one another and seeing their friendship deepen was especially meaningful. As old feelings resurface, they have to decide if they’re willing to risk their friendship for something more. The way they value each other and their relationship is incredibly sweet. Chris’s tender care toward Maddie absolutely made me melt.
I Know The Feeling is a story about first impressions, second chances, forgiveness, and trusting in God’s timing. Kelli doesn’t shy away from messy, real-world topics, handling them with honesty, grace, and hope.
If you enjoy uplifting, faith-based romcoms with authentic characters, swoony sweetness, flirty banter, and thoughtful layers, you will love this book.
✨Includes:✨
Youth Pastor
ER Nurse
Second Chance
Anxiety Rep
Trusting God’s Timing
Forced Collaboration
Pranks
Discipleship
Counseling
Church Christmas Play
Christian Romance
Closed Door
Kisses Only
Favorites:
🤯Self awareness & personal growth
😉Flirty banter
💞He calls her Reed
❤️🩹Chris and Maddie’s vulnerability
🧅”Everybody’s an onion, Reed.”
🧡East Texas weekend
🐸All the frogs
🤣The Calverts
🏈Family football + rooster + first aid
💃🏼Wedding date + dancing
🥹Misunderstanding then clarity
🥰Third chances
✝️Chris’ heart for ministry
🎉Team Maddie
Thank you Kelli Gaylean for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 17, 2026
I won this book in an Instagram giveaway at the end of 2025. Thank you Kelli for a copy of your book!
When I started reading the story, it captured my attention right away and I found myself finishing it in a day as I didn't want to put it down.
This is a Christian romance set around the Christmas and New Years holiday, but really the book can be read at anytime. The story really focuses on growth and finding healing and extending forgiveness from past hurts.
I loved the slow burn relationship between Chris and Maddie and loved the banter that they had. Both of them had gone through some hard struggles and they relied on their friends, family, and faith to get them through the tough times. They also focused on what they needed to do to grow as individuals and to work through the struggles.
I also like books that have the adults having the hard conversations instead of letting a miscommunication or a misunderstand derail their story. Chris and Maddie had some misunderstandings, but through open conversations, they were able to strengthen their friendship and move forward in their relationship.
While you quickly become endeared to Chris and Maddie, you'll also love the side characters. I am looking forward to reading more about Mia in "How can it Be?" but I am also hoping that we get more of Chelsea's story in a future book.
This was my first read by Kelli Galyean and I look forward to reading more from her.
Quotes:
"We are all works in progress..."
"...good can come out of the things that don't work out the way we planned."
"...we cannot let fear control us."
"You cannot let fear keep you from living your life."
When I started reading the story, it captured my attention right away and I found myself finishing it in a day as I didn't want to put it down.
This is a Christian romance set around the Christmas and New Years holiday, but really the book can be read at anytime. The story really focuses on growth and finding healing and extending forgiveness from past hurts.
I loved the slow burn relationship between Chris and Maddie and loved the banter that they had. Both of them had gone through some hard struggles and they relied on their friends, family, and faith to get them through the tough times. They also focused on what they needed to do to grow as individuals and to work through the struggles.
I also like books that have the adults having the hard conversations instead of letting a miscommunication or a misunderstand derail their story. Chris and Maddie had some misunderstandings, but through open conversations, they were able to strengthen their friendship and move forward in their relationship.
While you quickly become endeared to Chris and Maddie, you'll also love the side characters. I am looking forward to reading more about Mia in "How can it Be?" but I am also hoping that we get more of Chelsea's story in a future book.
This was my first read by Kelli Galyean and I look forward to reading more from her.
Quotes:
"We are all works in progress..."
"...good can come out of the things that don't work out the way we planned."
"...we cannot let fear control us."
"You cannot let fear keep you from living your life."
November 4, 2025
Maddie is suddenly thrown for a loop when she has to take over directing the children’s Christmas play. To make a stressful situation worse her assistant director is now Youth Guy Chris, the most immature man she knows. How is she possibly going to get through this? To her surprise Chris is actually really helpful and thoughtful and the pranks are minimal. Has Chris turned a new leaf? After spending weeks working closely together Maddie can’t help but have old feelings for Chris begin to stir, but she’s having a hard time reconciling the old Chris with this new guy. Life keeps throwing Maddie for loops and Chris keeps showing up for support. Are the feelings mutual? Can they work through their messy lives together?
What I loved:
🌟 Youth Guy Chris- redemption!!
🌟Maddie is so sassy, I loved her character
🌟Tough topics covered in a biblical way
🌟Realistic situations and hard conversations had between characters
🌟The banter between Chris and Maddie
🌟Harmless pranks
🌟His family REALLY likes her
🌟The friendships
🌟Nosy church ladies
Ahhhh! I absolutely loved this book as much as the first one. I didn’t think I could like Youth Guy Chris as much as I do now. Hello, swoon! Kelli has such a gifted way of writing about heavy topics, while showing biblical truths and so much redemption. I was taken on a roller coaster of emotions and had a blast reading this book. This is one you will not want to miss.
What I loved:
🌟 Youth Guy Chris- redemption!!
🌟Maddie is so sassy, I loved her character
🌟Tough topics covered in a biblical way
🌟Realistic situations and hard conversations had between characters
🌟The banter between Chris and Maddie
🌟Harmless pranks
🌟His family REALLY likes her
🌟The friendships
🌟Nosy church ladies
Ahhhh! I absolutely loved this book as much as the first one. I didn’t think I could like Youth Guy Chris as much as I do now. Hello, swoon! Kelli has such a gifted way of writing about heavy topics, while showing biblical truths and so much redemption. I was taken on a roller coaster of emotions and had a blast reading this book. This is one you will not want to miss.
April 20, 2026
Let me talk about what I loved. The writing was fantastic. I felt immersed in the story and I did want to keep reading. I really enjoyed Maddie’s character. I like the Christian themes interwoven throughout.
This was a bit of a challenging review to write. I had a hard time with the beginning of this book. While I enjoyed the writing and most of the characters I didn’t really enjoy the romance plot for part of the book. In saying this I haven’t read the first book so now I’m eager to go back and read that one. I loved so many of the themes. I enjoyed Maddie a lot. Chris was a problem for me, but that’s probably a me thing. I don’t like pranks and practical jokes and that’s his love language. I have brothers who did this to me and it was fine when it was my brothers but not when it was a significant other. Not a fan of that. So if that doesn’t bother you I think you’ll love this book!
In saying that Chris did have a ton of growth throughout. It just didn’t happen quite as quickly as I would have preferred. It was challenging to rate but I loved the writing and themes so much I still would give this a high rating.
CW: discussions of eating disorders, infidelity of side character, closed door (kisses only)
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a bit of a challenging review to write. I had a hard time with the beginning of this book. While I enjoyed the writing and most of the characters I didn’t really enjoy the romance plot for part of the book. In saying this I haven’t read the first book so now I’m eager to go back and read that one. I loved so many of the themes. I enjoyed Maddie a lot. Chris was a problem for me, but that’s probably a me thing. I don’t like pranks and practical jokes and that’s his love language. I have brothers who did this to me and it was fine when it was my brothers but not when it was a significant other. Not a fan of that. So if that doesn’t bother you I think you’ll love this book!
In saying that Chris did have a ton of growth throughout. It just didn’t happen quite as quickly as I would have preferred. It was challenging to rate but I loved the writing and themes so much I still would give this a high rating.
CW: discussions of eating disorders, infidelity of side character, closed door (kisses only)
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 12, 2026
Overview:
Language 🤐: none
Romance ❤️🔥:LV1 (non-descriptive kisses only)
Violence ⚔️:none
⚠️Talk of Divorce, Eating Disorders, she’s an ER nurse so there encounters in the ER I didn’t feel like anything descriptive⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Single POV
- ER Nurse
- Forced Proximity
- both in there early 30s
- Christmas Program together
- slow burn
My Thoughts:
4.25⭐️
This started out slow for me but really picked up in the end. I have not read the first book and maybe that would have helped me enjoying the beginning more as I would have understood more of the dynamic to begin with.
However as I got into the story and got to know Maddie and Chris a bit better the story really grew on me. There are some deep subjects and grief that is explored from divorce and loss of friendships, broken engagements. When these subjects were dove into I appreciate the insights of the characters.
I loved the faith elements and did enjoy this story. Some of my favorites parts were during their New Years weekend with Chris’s family. The flag football was definitely a highlight in the story for me.
Language 🤐: none
Romance ❤️🔥:LV1 (non-descriptive kisses only)
Violence ⚔️:none
⚠️Talk of Divorce, Eating Disorders, she’s an ER nurse so there encounters in the ER I didn’t feel like anything descriptive⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Single POV
- ER Nurse
- Forced Proximity
- both in there early 30s
- Christmas Program together
- slow burn
My Thoughts:
4.25⭐️
This started out slow for me but really picked up in the end. I have not read the first book and maybe that would have helped me enjoying the beginning more as I would have understood more of the dynamic to begin with.
However as I got into the story and got to know Maddie and Chris a bit better the story really grew on me. There are some deep subjects and grief that is explored from divorce and loss of friendships, broken engagements. When these subjects were dove into I appreciate the insights of the characters.
I loved the faith elements and did enjoy this story. Some of my favorites parts were during their New Years weekend with Chris’s family. The flag football was definitely a highlight in the story for me.
November 17, 2025
This was such a cute, Christmasy (well and a little after) story. I really loved Chris! I mean I didn't at first, but then I have to admit I kinda opened up to his character. His pranks cracked me up and I just smiled every time he was on the page.
And Maddie. She had to learn that you can't judge a book by how you felt when you read it two years ago lol. I liked seeing her soften to Chris and his charm, pranks, and even serious talk!
This is a fun, cute, Hallmarky kinda read with a faith theme that's sure to reach your heart. Romance readers will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review.
And Maddie. She had to learn that you can't judge a book by how you felt when you read it two years ago lol. I liked seeing her soften to Chris and his charm, pranks, and even serious talk!
This is a fun, cute, Hallmarky kinda read with a faith theme that's sure to reach your heart. Romance readers will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review.
April 20, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but it won’t be the last ! I loved everything about this book !
Maddie, an ER nurse, is juggling her demanding job and can’t say no when asked to take over the duties for the Christmas play. To her surprise, the goofy and lovable youth pastor, Chris, has his younger brother and sister in the play as well. The two have a complicated history, and it’s not a good one. They had a few dates in the past, but he abruptly ended things. Now, Chris keeps showing up for her, and he’s not just goofy anymore.
I love all the sweet Christian themes in the book .
Thank you to the author for my copy
Maddie, an ER nurse, is juggling her demanding job and can’t say no when asked to take over the duties for the Christmas play. To her surprise, the goofy and lovable youth pastor, Chris, has his younger brother and sister in the play as well. The two have a complicated history, and it’s not a good one. They had a few dates in the past, but he abruptly ended things. Now, Chris keeps showing up for her, and he’s not just goofy anymore.
I love all the sweet Christian themes in the book .
Thank you to the author for my copy
November 4, 2025
In this novel you will witness Gods matchless grace, unparalleled timing, and beautiful faithfulness bring an ER nurse (Maddie) and a youth minister (Chris) together. Youth Guy Chris made a total 180 from being an overly annoying nuisance to a well mannered gentleman and I am so proud of him. I loved how he was able to mature, but still kept his playful side. I enjoyed the forced proximity, hilarious pranks, and the insane rooster. IYKYK lol. Overall this novel was a great and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
September 20, 2025
I loved this book! Seriously couldn’t put it down. The chemistry between the main characters was 🔥 Kelli did an amazing job bringing us into this beautiful story. This book is a great reminder that God’s timing is perfect. I also loved all of the wonderful reminders of His love and faithfulness. Very uplifting!
November 11, 2025
A beautifully written wholesome book full of humor, emotion, and redemption.
Once you get to know “Youth Guy Chris,” he will melt your heart right into a puddle.
Maddie and Chris are so sweet together! Their banter is on point! The storylines with Chris’s sister and Maddie’s ex-best friend are emotional and heartwarming. And to top it off, who doesn’t love a quirky church lady!
Once you get to know “Youth Guy Chris,” he will melt your heart right into a puddle.
Maddie and Chris are so sweet together! Their banter is on point! The storylines with Chris’s sister and Maddie’s ex-best friend are emotional and heartwarming. And to top it off, who doesn’t love a quirky church lady!
December 22, 2025
This is such a sweet, fun story. It hits with some nostalgia for me because their church reminds me so much of my first church. I really enjoyed the characters and the love of all the surrounding cast of characters. While the style threw me at first, it became just another part of what makes the book work. I definitely recommend if you enjoy sweet Christian Romance.
February 23, 2026
I Know the Feeling is a delightful, uplifting read that stands beautifully on its own while expanding the world of the How Can It Be series.
Maddie, an ER nurse, navigates her complicated feelings toward Chris, her former boyfriend. In the first book, Chris came across as immature and emotionally unavailable. In this story, we see him grow—he humbles himself, seeks therapy, and learns to sit in emotional vulnerability (rather than joke his way out of it). In doing so, his relationship with Maddie blossoms in a way that feels earned and tender.
This book is a reminder that people are rarely one-dimensional. Those we write off may have the capacity to grow, change, and surprise us. It left me reflecting: who have I written off today who might become precious to me in the future?
Kelli, thank you for crafting such a redemptive, compassionate, and inspiring story. I Know the Feeling is a beautiful testament to the power of growth — and the grace we should offer one another along the way.
Maddie, an ER nurse, navigates her complicated feelings toward Chris, her former boyfriend. In the first book, Chris came across as immature and emotionally unavailable. In this story, we see him grow—he humbles himself, seeks therapy, and learns to sit in emotional vulnerability (rather than joke his way out of it). In doing so, his relationship with Maddie blossoms in a way that feels earned and tender.
This book is a reminder that people are rarely one-dimensional. Those we write off may have the capacity to grow, change, and surprise us. It left me reflecting: who have I written off today who might become precious to me in the future?
Kelli, thank you for crafting such a redemptive, compassionate, and inspiring story. I Know the Feeling is a beautiful testament to the power of growth — and the grace we should offer one another along the way.
January 1, 2026
Such a wonderful book!! Kelli is the real deal! Her characters are interesting and engaging. This book had me laughing out loud a few times and wondering what would happen next. Highly recommend!
November 13, 2025
I Know That Feeling is another fabulous, heartwarming & cozy read by Kelli Galyean. I love the comfort in the friendships, the relatability in the good & hard in the day to day, and the beauty in the love & grace of God and His perfect timing. I also loved that the book was set during the holidays and it gave the story that extra boost of festive peacefulness and joy.
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