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Love That Lasts: A Christian Romance
Seventeen years ago, she gave back his ring. Now she’s the doctor patching him back together—and stirring up feelings he thought he’d safely buried forever.
Clay Christiansen has built a good life on the shores of Lake Superior, running his family’s lakeside lodge, leading the church youth group, and raising the teenage boy God unexpectedly entrusted to his care. He had his chance at a happily ever after once, a long time ago, and it all fell apart. He’s made his peace with being alone.
Until a careless accident while felling a tree puts him in the ER, in the care of the new doctor in town—the woman he’s spent seventeen years trying not to think about.
Addison never planned to come home to Trinity Bay. Heartbroken from a marriage that ended in betrayal, a son who’s spiraling, and a faith she walked away from a long time ago, she’s only looking for a safe harbor. Not a second chance with the man who chose God over her. And certainly not with the God she’s sure failed her.
But when their boys form an unlikely friendship and old feelings refuse to stay buried, Clay and Addison are forced to face the very thing that pulled them apart in the first place. Is the wall between them too high—or will they trust God to pull it down and lead them to a love that lasts?
A deeply moving inspirational romance about a woman rediscovering her faith and the man whose patient love helps light the way. Perfect for fans of Karen Kingsbury, Denise Hunter, and Francine Rivers.
Clay Christiansen has built a good life on the shores of Lake Superior, running his family’s lakeside lodge, leading the church youth group, and raising the teenage boy God unexpectedly entrusted to his care. He had his chance at a happily ever after once, a long time ago, and it all fell apart. He’s made his peace with being alone.
Until a careless accident while felling a tree puts him in the ER, in the care of the new doctor in town—the woman he’s spent seventeen years trying not to think about.
Addison never planned to come home to Trinity Bay. Heartbroken from a marriage that ended in betrayal, a son who’s spiraling, and a faith she walked away from a long time ago, she’s only looking for a safe harbor. Not a second chance with the man who chose God over her. And certainly not with the God she’s sure failed her.
But when their boys form an unlikely friendship and old feelings refuse to stay buried, Clay and Addison are forced to face the very thing that pulled them apart in the first place. Is the wall between them too high—or will they trust God to pull it down and lead them to a love that lasts?
A deeply moving inspirational romance about a woman rediscovering her faith and the man whose patient love helps light the way. Perfect for fans of Karen Kingsbury, Denise Hunter, and Francine Rivers.
518 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2026
About the author
Valerie M. Bodden
54 books524 followersI have three great loves: Jesus, my family, and books. And chocolate (okay, four great loves). I write fast-paced, emotional Christian fiction that weaves real-life problems, real-life people, and real-life faith. My characters may (okay, will) experience some heartache along the way, but I promise I'll always give them a happy ending.
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VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR A FREE BOOK!
www.valeriembodden.com
CHAT WITH ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/ValerieMBodden/
CHECK OUT MY PINTEREST!
https://www.pinterest.com/valbodden/
HANG OUT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM
https://www.instagram.com/valboddenbo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 18, 2026
What an amazing book! I felt privileged to receive an ARC. The characters were wonderful! You could feel all the pain, heartache, sadness and joy they were feeling. I could see the story in my head, the word pictures were wonderful! The storyline grabbed me and held my attention from the very beginning! I couldn't put the book down! I am excited to read the rest of this series!
July 19, 2026
Very good read!
Love that Lasts is a great story of God always seeking us no matter what. He always loves and forgives us, even if we turn away from him. Great encouragement to walk with God daily. Very well written.
Love that Lasts is a great story of God always seeking us no matter what. He always loves and forgives us, even if we turn away from him. Great encouragement to walk with God daily. Very well written.
May 29, 2026
The Calm after the Storm
Loved this book … and not for the usual reasons one gets absorbed in a good storyline. This book, although fiction, uses real life issues and situations to frame a very good story.
Life is about choices… as this book clearly shows, choices have consequences and often collateral damage. Clay and Addison both had to live with Addison’s choice to turn against her Creator. She leaves Trinity Bay for college, becomes a doctor, marries another man, and barely looks back… UNTIL…
Clay loved Addison when tragedy struck hard in her life 17 years ago. Both parents tragically dying on a mission trip was enough to sway Addison’s life long beliefs… and it also ended their wedding plans.
Seventeen long years later Addison can’t handle the fallout of her adulterous ex husband, nor her rebellious teenage son. She goes back to Trinity Bay to be with and help her aging grandmother. Her hope is the move will be a fresh start for Nolan, her son.
We are told that God works in mysterious ways. There’s a battle going on between good and evil and the enemy’s only weapon is deception. Through that deception choices are made… Addison’s choices affected many. But it wasn’t only that choice 17 years ago, leaving Clay, she’s still making choices... and not all choices are bad (wink, wink). She might have ‘dropped’ her faith, but she had many years of Godly upbringing and teaching before letting tragedy deceive her. She also had a Godly man that never quit praying for her. Clay never forgot Addison but didn’t hold out hope for them to be back together.
Not wanting to give spoilers let me just say: This book may be fiction… but is it really, or is it simply a fictional scenario that represents much of real life?
🤔 OBSERVATIONS 🤔
…Thought provoking
…The characters show/have emotional depth
…Sibling rivalry doesn’t have to be biological siblings
…The start of a good series centered on faith, family, love and endurance
…Loved Pastor Noah’s way of teaching
… Addison’s ex was more of a sperm donor than a father. I would like to know how he reaps what he sowed… and his mistress too. Does he ever have regrets? Does he ever have to look in a mirror and see his true self?
…Looking forward to Ezra’s story
Loved this book … and not for the usual reasons one gets absorbed in a good storyline. This book, although fiction, uses real life issues and situations to frame a very good story.
Life is about choices… as this book clearly shows, choices have consequences and often collateral damage. Clay and Addison both had to live with Addison’s choice to turn against her Creator. She leaves Trinity Bay for college, becomes a doctor, marries another man, and barely looks back… UNTIL…
Clay loved Addison when tragedy struck hard in her life 17 years ago. Both parents tragically dying on a mission trip was enough to sway Addison’s life long beliefs… and it also ended their wedding plans.
Seventeen long years later Addison can’t handle the fallout of her adulterous ex husband, nor her rebellious teenage son. She goes back to Trinity Bay to be with and help her aging grandmother. Her hope is the move will be a fresh start for Nolan, her son.
We are told that God works in mysterious ways. There’s a battle going on between good and evil and the enemy’s only weapon is deception. Through that deception choices are made… Addison’s choices affected many. But it wasn’t only that choice 17 years ago, leaving Clay, she’s still making choices... and not all choices are bad (wink, wink). She might have ‘dropped’ her faith, but she had many years of Godly upbringing and teaching before letting tragedy deceive her. She also had a Godly man that never quit praying for her. Clay never forgot Addison but didn’t hold out hope for them to be back together.
Not wanting to give spoilers let me just say: This book may be fiction… but is it really, or is it simply a fictional scenario that represents much of real life?
🤔 OBSERVATIONS 🤔
…Thought provoking
…The characters show/have emotional depth
…Sibling rivalry doesn’t have to be biological siblings
…The start of a good series centered on faith, family, love and endurance
…Loved Pastor Noah’s way of teaching
… Addison’s ex was more of a sperm donor than a father. I would like to know how he reaps what he sowed… and his mistress too. Does he ever have regrets? Does he ever have to look in a mirror and see his true self?
…Looking forward to Ezra’s story
June 7, 2026
Clay Christiansen and Addison have a history that never truly stopped breathing. Seventeen years ago she gave back his ring and walked away, and he built a quiet life on the shores of Lake Superior, raising the boy God placed in his care and making peace with a future without her. Addison returns to Trinity Bay carrying her own heartbreak, a son who is struggling, and a faith she no longer trusts. When a sudden accident brings Clay into her ER, their past collides with their present in a way neither of them is prepared for.
There was something profoundly tender about the way their past and present collided. Seventeen years of silence, regret, and unspoken longing came rushing back the moment Addison walked into that ER room, and from that point on, I felt every heartbeat of their story. Watching them navigate old wounds, parental fears, and the fragile hope of second chances stirred emotions I was not prepared for. It made me reflect on my own heart, my own faith, and the places where healing sometimes comes slower than we wish.
The author writes with such honesty and compassion that I found myself feeling every hesitation, every ache, every flicker of hope. The boys’ unexpected friendship, the weight of unspoken regrets, the slow rebuilding of trust. All of it wove together into a story that felt both raw and redemptive. It reminded me how deeply love can root itself, even after years of silence, and how gently God can work in the broken places we try so hard to protect.
This is not just a second chance romance. It is a story about grace, forgiveness, and the courage to believe that God can restore what feels lost. And somewhere along the way, it touched places in me I did not expect. The tender places, the faith worn places, the places that still hope for redemption.
I am grateful I had the chance to read it early, but even more grateful for the way it reached into my heart and stayed. Some stories entertain. This one changed something in me.
There was something profoundly tender about the way their past and present collided. Seventeen years of silence, regret, and unspoken longing came rushing back the moment Addison walked into that ER room, and from that point on, I felt every heartbeat of their story. Watching them navigate old wounds, parental fears, and the fragile hope of second chances stirred emotions I was not prepared for. It made me reflect on my own heart, my own faith, and the places where healing sometimes comes slower than we wish.
The author writes with such honesty and compassion that I found myself feeling every hesitation, every ache, every flicker of hope. The boys’ unexpected friendship, the weight of unspoken regrets, the slow rebuilding of trust. All of it wove together into a story that felt both raw and redemptive. It reminded me how deeply love can root itself, even after years of silence, and how gently God can work in the broken places we try so hard to protect.
This is not just a second chance romance. It is a story about grace, forgiveness, and the courage to believe that God can restore what feels lost. And somewhere along the way, it touched places in me I did not expect. The tender places, the faith worn places, the places that still hope for redemption.
I am grateful I had the chance to read it early, but even more grateful for the way it reached into my heart and stayed. Some stories entertain. This one changed something in me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
LOVED Clay and Addison's story!! Valerie Bodden never disappoints!! Clay and Addison were to get married seventeen years ago. Instead, a week before the wedding, she called the whole thing off and went to med school, never returning home to Trinity Bay. Until now, that is, with her sullen fifteen year old son, almost sixteen, with her. Clay finds out she's back in town after a freak accident with a chain saw. He's been praying all this time that Addy would find her way back to God, though he soon finds out she hasn't. When her son, Nolan, and the boy he's got guardianship of, Zane, take an almost instant dislike to each other, Clay isn't sure how anything is going to work out for good. It doesn't take long, though, until the boys start becoming friends, and things really start changing when Clay and Zane start praying for Nolan, and others in the youth group do, too. Then, Addy's grandmother starts showing signs of dementia, and Addy isn't sure how to react to all going on around her. As things continue to happen, God keeps using Clay, Zane, Nolan, and Clay's family to reach Addy. When another tragedy strikes, Nolan helps Clay to get his head back in the game, and Clay comes out stronger on the other side. Love how everything comes out in the end!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
June 4, 2026
What a powerful story! This book delves deeply into things that are so hard to understand as a Christian, such as why God allows bad things and even devastating things to happen to the people who love and follow Him and how should a follower respond to God not answering prayers in the way that they want Him to.
I loved seeing the way Nolan and Addison were accepted into the Trinity Bay community and right back into the heart of the Christiansen family that Addison had walked away from seventeen years earlier.
I appreciated that the heart changes that occurred in Nolan and eventually in Addison were not rushed. The author was able to show how God was working on both of their hearts in different ways and in different times.
The love that grew again between Clay and Addison was also gently moving. I adored the way Clay was fully devoted to being there for Addison and her son even though it seemed unlikely that Addison would ever return to the faith or to him.
I’m really looking forward to more stories with this family and it was fun to see a few little connections to some of the author’s previous books, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved seeing the way Nolan and Addison were accepted into the Trinity Bay community and right back into the heart of the Christiansen family that Addison had walked away from seventeen years earlier.
I appreciated that the heart changes that occurred in Nolan and eventually in Addison were not rushed. The author was able to show how God was working on both of their hearts in different ways and in different times.
The love that grew again between Clay and Addison was also gently moving. I adored the way Clay was fully devoted to being there for Addison and her son even though it seemed unlikely that Addison would ever return to the faith or to him.
I’m really looking forward to more stories with this family and it was fun to see a few little connections to some of the author’s previous books, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
June 7, 2026
Valerie Bodden is one of my favorite Christian romance authors. She is a master at creating. story that feels so real and genuine.
In this story, Clay and Addison had once planned a future together but when tragedy struck, Addison stepped away from Clay and returned the engagement ring and left Trinity Bay. Now, it's seventeen years later and after a betrayal of her husband and a divorce, she has returned to town with her teenage son, Nolan. She hasn't seen Clay or any of his family, since she left town all those years ago.
When Clay is seriously injured and ends up in her ER, will the strong feelings of love they once had for each other return or will neither of them be open to resurrecting those feelings once again.
This story deals with tragedy, grief and questioning your faith in God's ability to heal and be able to feel God's love even when your prayers aren't answered in the way you wanted. I shed some tears as the story unfolded and the pain intensified. You will definitely need a box of tissue nearby, even if you aren't one who usually cries when you read a story. I had a hard time when this story was finished. I wanted even more. I felt like I had become a character in the story that had woven me into its fibers.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
In this story, Clay and Addison had once planned a future together but when tragedy struck, Addison stepped away from Clay and returned the engagement ring and left Trinity Bay. Now, it's seventeen years later and after a betrayal of her husband and a divorce, she has returned to town with her teenage son, Nolan. She hasn't seen Clay or any of his family, since she left town all those years ago.
When Clay is seriously injured and ends up in her ER, will the strong feelings of love they once had for each other return or will neither of them be open to resurrecting those feelings once again.
This story deals with tragedy, grief and questioning your faith in God's ability to heal and be able to feel God's love even when your prayers aren't answered in the way you wanted. I shed some tears as the story unfolded and the pain intensified. You will definitely need a box of tissue nearby, even if you aren't one who usually cries when you read a story. I had a hard time when this story was finished. I wanted even more. I felt like I had become a character in the story that had woven me into its fibers.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
September 28, 2026
I knew Valerie was gonna tug at my heart but not like this. God is so good. I think this has become my favourite story that she has put out. Clay and Addison story is not perfect but you can see Gods perfect timing within it. The way that Clays love for Addison continued to endure throughout their time apart and even as they saw each other again was wonderful especially because he didn’t want her coming to Christ for him but because He knew how much Christ loved her. The things that happen in this book were very hard to read especially because death is usually - to me - the place that people never want to hear about how God is there for them even in that but we thank God for His love and His continued presence even in death that there is nothing that stands in the way of it. This book helped me gain a new perspective even on my own life with remembering that even if He doesn’t answer my prayers the way I want them to be answered, He’ll still do it in a way that he knows is most best for me. He truly works everything out for the good of those that love Him even when we think that the “good” is solely what we want. Thank you Valerie for this story and allowing God to use you to write it!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2026
Valerie Bodden’s best book yet...
The author has truly surpassed herself with this story. Seventeen years ago, Clay and Addison very nearly got married, but she broke their engagement because she had lost her faith. The author has created two lovely characters who I would be proud to call friends. The author developed these characters throughout the story, leading to a most satisfying conclusion.
The prayers in this story were heartfelt and so beautiful. The author sprinkles Scripture throughout the book, but is not the least bit preachy. I had great difficulty putting my Kindle down in order to do chores, cook, sleep, you name it. This is such a beautiful story and a great reminder that God works in ways beyond our understanding. He does not necessarily protect us from all problems, but He is always with us as we go through them.
This story held my interest throughout, and I enjoyed it from start to finish. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy clean books with interesting and likable characters.
Disclosure: I was given a free ARC and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.
The author has truly surpassed herself with this story. Seventeen years ago, Clay and Addison very nearly got married, but she broke their engagement because she had lost her faith. The author has created two lovely characters who I would be proud to call friends. The author developed these characters throughout the story, leading to a most satisfying conclusion.
The prayers in this story were heartfelt and so beautiful. The author sprinkles Scripture throughout the book, but is not the least bit preachy. I had great difficulty putting my Kindle down in order to do chores, cook, sleep, you name it. This is such a beautiful story and a great reminder that God works in ways beyond our understanding. He does not necessarily protect us from all problems, but He is always with us as we go through them.
This story held my interest throughout, and I enjoyed it from start to finish. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy clean books with interesting and likable characters.
Disclosure: I was given a free ARC and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.
June 9, 2026
I don't know how Valerie does it, but she writes such outstanding stories that grab you from the beginning and hold you till the end. Love, relationships, drama, heartache, love, God's Love and so much more wrapped up in this book. Valerie is one of the best authors I have read. I am blessed to be on her team and received this book for my honest opinion.
Clay is one of the main characters and he is teaching his new charge, Zane how to cut down trees using his chain-saw. Addison is back in town with her son Nolan. She is a doctor working at the hospital. Clay comes in very injured from an accident with chain saw and that is when Addison realizes that her ex-boyfriend, Clay is the one on the table injured. She has to put her old feelings aside and work on him. Addison has had it rough. Loosing her parents, who were missionaries in Peru. Leaving Trinity Bay, because she was angry at God. She fights against the Lord for 19 years and her return back to Trinity Bay changes her desires as well as her son Nolan.
There is so much more to this novel, but you must read it!
Clay is one of the main characters and he is teaching his new charge, Zane how to cut down trees using his chain-saw. Addison is back in town with her son Nolan. She is a doctor working at the hospital. Clay comes in very injured from an accident with chain saw and that is when Addison realizes that her ex-boyfriend, Clay is the one on the table injured. She has to put her old feelings aside and work on him. Addison has had it rough. Loosing her parents, who were missionaries in Peru. Leaving Trinity Bay, because she was angry at God. She fights against the Lord for 19 years and her return back to Trinity Bay changes her desires as well as her son Nolan.
There is so much more to this novel, but you must read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Clay has become the guardian of a 15-year-old boy when his ex-fiancé, Addison moves back to town with her 15-year-old son. She is the new ER doctor at the local hospital. Clay and Addison broke up when her parents, missionaries, were killed. She stopped believing in God because He did not save her parents. Clay could not marry an unbeliever. Will the Lord give them a second chance? Will Addison come back to the Lord?
Favorite quote: “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait expectantly.”
Valerie Bodden is a gifted writer who does a great job with developing characters who are very relatable. Some aspects of the story touch on good sportsmanship and how the death of a believer affects the family and others. This book has very good Christian aspects and spiritual principles. I love a book that brings me closer to the Lord.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.
Favorite quote: “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait expectantly.”
Valerie Bodden is a gifted writer who does a great job with developing characters who are very relatable. Some aspects of the story touch on good sportsmanship and how the death of a believer affects the family and others. This book has very good Christian aspects and spiritual principles. I love a book that brings me closer to the Lord.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.
May 30, 2026
This author is one of the best Christian romance authors I have ever read! My heart jumps when I see a new release coming out from her as her stories have such depth into them. You can always feel what the characters are going through by her writing and it pulls you into their story. The small town background and the love they have for their neighbor is such that you feel like you are personally there with the way the author writes. I am always pulled into her stories from the beginning. As with all her series, I find myself pulled into the Pastor’s messages as well as the characters faith. This story focused on the second chance for Clay and Addison when Addison returns to Trinity Bay with her son. They were to be married years ago but after the death of her parents in Peru, Addison turned from her faith and from Clay. Now back in town, Addison is being pulled back into faith by her son who wants to know more about God. This book is just the best!
June 9, 2026
I loved this story of Addison who turned her back on God and her fiance, Clay, when her missionary parents were killed in a landslide in Peru. Now Addison is a recently divorced doctor with a teenage son and returns to Trinity Bay to be with her elderly grandmother and get her son, Nolan, away from the city. One of her first patients in ER is Clay with a chainsaw cut! Clay is devoted to God, is youth leader, football coach and foster father to a teenage boy, Zane. I loved how Clay was able to guide the teenagers and show them love. Zane and Nolan compete to play on the football team and to win the same girl! Nolan has never heard about God and is amazed by His love but Addison remains bitter toward God until a missions trip. Nothing is impossible with God! I thoroughly enjoyed the book and recommend Love That Lasts to others. I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
June 23, 2026
Love That Lasts by Valerie Bodden is a Christian, inspirational, second-chance romance with good biblical lessons presented in different ways. All the characters were people I would like to know.
I was especially interested in the devotion and subsequent discussions on God's perfect timing versus our timing. I have put this book with others that I will read again since there are other lessons to be learned. For each "lesson" Valerie has referenced the corresponding Bible verses, then whichever group was participating would discuss their thoughts and questions. For me this is a good way to learn God's word.
The other reviews have shared about the relationship between Clay and Addison so I won't duplicate that. I will say the story had a perfect happy-ever-after. Also, the young, teen-aged boys, Zane and Nolan are awesome characters!!
I was given an ARC of this story but all thoughts and comments are mine, given voluntarily.
I was especially interested in the devotion and subsequent discussions on God's perfect timing versus our timing. I have put this book with others that I will read again since there are other lessons to be learned. For each "lesson" Valerie has referenced the corresponding Bible verses, then whichever group was participating would discuss their thoughts and questions. For me this is a good way to learn God's word.
The other reviews have shared about the relationship between Clay and Addison so I won't duplicate that. I will say the story had a perfect happy-ever-after. Also, the young, teen-aged boys, Zane and Nolan are awesome characters!!
I was given an ARC of this story but all thoughts and comments are mine, given voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Is God really good? Does he really have my best in mind? Why doesn’t he stop tragedy? Most people struggle with these questions at some point. Valerie Bodden addresses them all in Love That Lasts. The calamity described feels so real but it’s Addison’s heartache that brought me to tears. She’s suffered great loss and compounded her pain by turning away from the source of all hope. The ripple effect has devastating potential and she is in denial. Thank goodness there is a true love that lasts. If you enjoy sweet romance, this book is for you. If you like to be challenged, this book is for you. If you want to grow in your relationship with Jesus, this book is definitely for you. I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book one in a new series by Bodden – Trinity Bay. It has links to her River Falls series, and the sixth book in that series, Hearts of Hope, introduced readers to several characters who are major players in this book, so if you have not read that book, it might be good to read it before Love That Lasts.
You’re going to need some tissues handy while reading this book. There are quite a few heart-wrenching plot twists that will bring on tears. The spiritual insights are really good – Bodden knows how to articulate deep truths about prayer, God’s will, and trusting through hard times.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
You’re going to need some tissues handy while reading this book. There are quite a few heart-wrenching plot twists that will bring on tears. The spiritual insights are really good – Bodden knows how to articulate deep truths about prayer, God’s will, and trusting through hard times.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Clay and Addison were a couple from early on. However, right in the middle of planning her wedding, Addison breaks it off as her faith foundation is shaken: her missionary parents died. Now, years later, she comes home to Trinity Bay to take care of her gram. Her teenage son also comes with her.
Clay's feelings for Addison have not diminished, but there is still a wide chasm in their faith beliefs.
This is a very absorbing story that is faith questioning and rebuilding. Takes place in a wonderful community and a large close-knit family.
I was provided with a copy of the book by the author; it was a pleasure to read. A "clean" story that is faith building and thought provoking.
I am providing this review voluntarily and honestly. I highly recommend it.
Clay's feelings for Addison have not diminished, but there is still a wide chasm in their faith beliefs.
This is a very absorbing story that is faith questioning and rebuilding. Takes place in a wonderful community and a large close-knit family.
I was provided with a copy of the book by the author; it was a pleasure to read. A "clean" story that is faith building and thought provoking.
I am providing this review voluntarily and honestly. I highly recommend it.
May 28, 2026
This book was heavy on the feels. It dealt with some difficult topics and the characters were dealing with some hard things but it managed to remain hopeful. I really enjoyed watching Clay and Addison’s second chance romance blossom and their sons go from competitors who didn’t like each other to friends. There were some twists and turns in this story that shocked me and made me sad but, always, the book held out comfort and hope. If you’ve ever asked God “Why?” and struggled to understand why bad things sometimes happen to good people, then this inspirational Christian story may be a good book for you. I am glad I read it and I highly recommend it to you. I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 29, 2026
Addison lost faith when her parents were tragically killed 17 years ago. She also lost Clay, the love of her life, when she broke off their engagement and left Trinity Bay. Now she’s back in town with Nolan, her rebellious teenage son, hoping to get closer to him and give him a better life. She tries to avoid running into Clay but an accident throws them together again and they start talking again. But she’s not ready to believe again and knows she would never be right for Clay. Maybe God has other plans.
A story of tragedy, loss, faith, hope, forgiveness, new beginnings, and more. Have some tissues ready. There’s a shocker toward the end. This is such a wonderful story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A story of tragedy, loss, faith, hope, forgiveness, new beginnings, and more. Have some tissues ready. There’s a shocker toward the end. This is such a wonderful story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 5, 2026
Love that Lasts by Valerie M. Bodden is a very encouraging and uplifting story. So many Biblical truths wrapped up not just in a romance but of living life as a Christian Family. Clay is a guardian for Zane. Addison is recently divorced and has moved with her son Nolan back to Trinity Bay.
It does have some life events that are tragic and sad, but in the book they encouraged each other to remember that God has a plan. We might not understand why it happened, the reasons or the timing, but God’s love endures forever.
I read this book on Kindle Unlimited. Gave it 5 stars because the author who wrote this book touched my heart and my spirit. So much that I went and purchased my own digital book because this book is a keeper. Want to read it many more times.
It does have some life events that are tragic and sad, but in the book they encouraged each other to remember that God has a plan. We might not understand why it happened, the reasons or the timing, but God’s love endures forever.
I read this book on Kindle Unlimited. Gave it 5 stars because the author who wrote this book touched my heart and my spirit. So much that I went and purchased my own digital book because this book is a keeper. Want to read it many more times.
August 14, 2026
This is a love story on several levels - God’s love for us, and the steadfastness of those in our lives who continue to pray for us … for years, if necessary. The subtext is that God’s timing is perfect. Addy left Clay 18 years ago - after her missionary parents died, and she decided God wasn’t real. Clay out God first in his life, and couldn’t marry a women who didn’t also do so. That just confirmed in Addy’s mind that no one loved her. That she wasn’t chosen by anyone; worthy of being loved. You’ll enjoy reading about her journey back to faith. The book hits some hard topics about where God is in suffering, and answers those questions well. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love that Lasts describes the heartache of an engagement that ended 17 years ago when Addison lost her faith and walked away from God. The story depicts Clay’s faith and trust in God’s will throughout his grief, suffering, sadness and joy within his large extended family in Trinity Bay on the shores of Lake Superior. This is an emotional read with Addison fighting her former faith and Clay’s continuous prayers that she will return to God. Add in the adventures of two teenage boys who continually compete and the huge Christensen family and Mrs. Bodden has written an excellent beginning to her new series
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love that Lasts is the first book in a new series by Valerie Bodden. Addison has rejected God since the death of her parents and pushed away her fiance, Clay. Now 17 years later, they are having to adjust to living near each other and interacting in the community. Through a series of events, they are thrust together while fighting their attraction. While Addison has to come to terms with God about her parents' death, Clay has to trust God to work everything out for their good. I loved how the author incorporated the Bible with applications to everyone's lives. It is a great Christian romance story. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
September 28, 2026
This author really knows how to tell a story and this second chance romance really tugs on your heartstrings. We find ourselves in Trinity Bay, a small town on the shores of Wisconsin’s Lake Superior, where the people are friendly and the town is picturesque! 17 years beforehand Clay and Addison went their separate ways and now all these years later, their paths cross and old feelings come back to the surface. Addison has lost her faith and been betrayed and is heartbroken from her marriage when she finds Clay in her ER after an accident with a tree. Their journey is sweet and patient as they face their differences and their past mistakes, rediscover their faith in God and each other.
May 28, 2026
Love That Lasts is a Christian, second chance romance about Addison rediscovering God with Clay lighting her way. I was, of course rooting for Addison and Clay, but I also really enjoyed al the teens in this well written book. Ms. Bodden writes very realistic stories and characters. You will probably need some tissues as there is a lot of loss and heartbreak involved, but ultimately love of God and true romance will triumph. I suggest you begin reading early in the day as the book is hard to put down!
June 4, 2026
I an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Dr. Addison Bauer returns to Trinity Bay with her teenaged son after her divorce. Clay Christianson sees her when he needs medical assistance after a chainsaw accident. Clay is active with the youth group and is football coach which involved her son and the young man Clay is guardian of. This is an engaging book and great start of a new series. It is a faith filled book with emphasis on renewed relationships with both people and God, and the growth of faith.
June 6, 2026
Clay and Addison have a history, and it didn't end on a good note but now Addison is a doctor and has come back to live with her grandmother so she can keep her teen son from ruining his life. Clay works his family's lodge and has a friend's son, Zane, that he got guardianship of. Not only do Clay and Addison dance around one another, but Zane and Addison's son don't get along either. There is a lot going on in this book and it is all handled exceptionally well. Love the books Valerie Bodden graces us with!
June 8, 2026
Another Stellar Novel
I know every Valerie Bodden book I read will be amazing! I preorder her books and rush to read, all the while wanting the story to slow down so as not to end! This one was no different. Valerie’s stories are full of real life struggles, wrestling with faith and relationships, full of great romance and hope!
This is a beautiful story of second chances, coming home to one’s first love - and especially, most importantly, coming home to Jesus! Just such a beautiful read!
I know every Valerie Bodden book I read will be amazing! I preorder her books and rush to read, all the while wanting the story to slow down so as not to end! This one was no different. Valerie’s stories are full of real life struggles, wrestling with faith and relationships, full of great romance and hope!
This is a beautiful story of second chances, coming home to one’s first love - and especially, most importantly, coming home to Jesus! Just such a beautiful read!
June 24, 2026
Once again Ms Bodden introduces us to a close knit Christian family, although we know some of them already. Clay is a rock, so faithful, so honest, and working hard to “father” the teen who just lost his mom. Addison has a ton of baggage with an ex, a surly teen son, and an elderly grandmother. Unfortunately, she chose to walk away from God seventeen years ago and her anger towards Him hasn’t changed. Reading this story I saw so many real life situations. It was inspiring to watch the restoration of so many of the characters.
July 14, 2026
Worth every minute!
The book does a phenomenal job of presenting the joys and struggles that face all of us because we live in a fallen world. Knowing that God is good in all things and then living it out in faith can be really difficult as we go through life’s struggles. Love the scriptures used and the relationships portrayed in this story. Also loved the focus on Peru. I had the privilege of going on a mission trip to Peru with a ministry that supports orphanages 2 yrs ago and fell in love with the children and the people there.
The book does a phenomenal job of presenting the joys and struggles that face all of us because we live in a fallen world. Knowing that God is good in all things and then living it out in faith can be really difficult as we go through life’s struggles. Love the scriptures used and the relationships portrayed in this story. Also loved the focus on Peru. I had the privilege of going on a mission trip to Peru with a ministry that supports orphanages 2 yrs ago and fell in love with the children and the people there.
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