The One You See: A Rayburn High Romance, Book Three

by Melissa Knight

When two worlds collide

In seventeen-year-old Miranda’s world of wealth and Paris vacations, image is everything. Control is crucial. A single lapse of judgement, however, brings that world crashing down, including her plans for a perfect senior year.

Zac has ambitions of his own, none of which involve the beautiful but snooty girl who never remembers his name. He comes with a past she wouldn’t understand anyway.

Forced to work together at a summer camp, sparks fly before they reach an uneasy truce. Genuine friendship requires trust, however, and vulnerability they'd rather avoid.

Somehow, while bonding with a defiant foster child, learning to make homemade tamales, and performing an impromptu chicken dance, Miranda’s priorities shift. Drawn to Zac’s protective nature and kindness, he’s no longer a guy she can ignore.

As for Zac, this intelligent girl, desperate to escape guilt and find purpose despite her obvious life advantages, intrigues him. Drawing on hard-won battles he's already fought, Zac decides to risk his heart. He’ll let her into his world…

and show her what faith looks like in the God who truly sees her.

The One You See is a stand-alone novel, Book Three in the Christian YA "Rayburn High Romance" series.

176 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2025

About the author

Melissa Knight is the author of YA Christian Contemporary Romance books, including the High School 101 and Rayburn High Romance series. A veteran teacher in public schools, many of her short stories and articles have been published in various magazines and literature for teens and children. She’s made several moves as an oil field wife, leading to some of the best adventures and friendships of her life. Melissa and her husband (still her sweetheart) currently live in Texas, while their two grown kids are out there building their own legacies. They enjoy getting together for hiking trips and savage Uno tournaments.

For updates on future releases follow Melissa's Goodreads page, or join her Facebook, X, and/or BookBub pages.

Reviews

[Andrea Perez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books where the main character does an about face throughout the story to become another person, a better person. Randi got caught cheating, and to her, it should've ruined her summer, but some mistakes turn out to be blessings. She learned a lot about herself, how she was superficial and selfish while becoming empathetic and caring toward others. She learns how to serve others and finds that small voice guiding her. And Zak is just a sweetheart.

[Rina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stand alone Christian YA book set in the Rayburn High universe. After some poor choices privileged teen Miranda has to face the consequences which leads her to encounter Zac who comes from a world opposite to hers. Zac helps Miranda see the world and Jesus in a new light.
I loved this story! It includes so many of my favourite things - set at a camp, a big loving family, kids, food made with love, opposites attracting, and a happy ending! Miranda's growth was well written and felt authentic. Zac's maturity also felt true to the life he has experienced. The way their friendship grew was fun to read. I will be passing this along to my teen to read.
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. It was a joy to read!

[Julie Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stand alone YA novel by Melissa Knight in which she shares a story of guilt, forgiveness, love, and trust. When Randi is sent to summer camp as a punishment, she finds the kids at this camp for foster camp begin to melt her heart. She also finds this camp to be more than just a job. Friendship, faith, and romance are waiting for Randi just around the corner. Read “The One You See” and fill your heart with love laughter and maybe a little romance!

[Christina S · Rating 5 out of 5]

this series has been so sweet to read even as an adult. this book tackled some difficult but important topics like making mistakes, dealing with consequences, taking responsibility, and forgiveness. The main character has cheated, caught in the ease of AI being available and has to return home from her trip to Paris to deal with the consequences. In the end, these consequences help her to grow and she gains more than she ever thought she would during her punishment.

[Paige Gunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One You See by Melissa Knight is an inspiring read for both teens and adults. The story contrasts Mia's world of privilege with Zac's vastly different working-class world. Their contrasting backgrounds and experiences bring depth to the narrative. Knight effectively highlights the theme of accountability, showing readers the importance of considering the repercussions of their decisions. As Miranda and Zac share their stories, their relationship develops, offering a touching portrayal of acceptance across social classes.


With a strong Christian message woven throughout, The One You See encourages readers to be genuine and vulnerable in a world where our online personas too often define us. This beautifully crafted narrative leaves readers with a sense of hope and motivation to approach life with authenticity and honesty.


I highly recommend "The One You See" to anyone seeking a transformative and heartfelt story. It's an insightful exploration of faith, friendship, and, of course, a little romance, making it a valuable and delightful read.

*I received a manuscript prior to the book release.

[M. Boyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the character arc! This may be my favorite Melissa Knight book so far. When Randi's parents require her to fly home from Paris weeks early, she dreads the reality she made for herself with one hasty decision during finals week. She learns that clearing up confusion and redeeming her reputation will not be an easy fix, but I love that she takes it on. Honesty with parents, trusting God, and loving the family you have are solid themes in this book that I recommend for fans of squeaky-clean Christian YA.