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The McKinleys #1
This Time with Love
THIS TIME WITH LOVE is book 1 in the Christian romance series The McKinleys by bestselling author, Kimberly Rae Jordan. Follow the stories of Eric, Brooke, Victoria and Alicia as their present lives are impacted by decisions and events in their past. This heartwarming series of love, faith and family is sure to inspire and move you.
Six years ago, a new found faith changed Anastacia Stapleton’s perspective on her life and relationship. When the man she is living with refuses to consider marriage, she knows she has to end things with him. Realizing that she can’t continue to live the way she has in the past, Ana runs away from LA and its temptations to the one place her boyfriend had said he’d never go. Minneapolis, Minnesota. As Ana Stapleton becomes Staci Moore, she feels secure in the life she has created for herself and the child she hadn’t realized she carried when she left LA.
Eric McKinley had abandoned the faith of his childhood when he was still in his teens, but after enduring a life-changing trauma, he finds himself once again turning to God. This change of heart prompts him to return to the family he’d become estranged from years ago. Though he thought he had put Ana Stapleton and his feelings for her firmly in his past, Eric realizes nothing could be further from the truth when he runs into her at a singles retreat over the New Year.
Coming face to face with Eric and the emotions of their past relationship has Staci contemplating another disappearance—hopefully before he learns of the child she never told him about. Six years and many counseling sessions later, Staci knows that what she and Eric shared in the past had been anything but healthy. Even as she tries to resist his presence in her life, her heart is drawn to him once again. She can see the changes in Eric, but Staci is scared of reverting back into the person she’d been when they had been together.
As Eric learns about the depth of pain Staci endured as a result of their relationship, he tries to make things right, but will it be enough to help her trust him again? Or will his role in her life never go beyond father to the child they share together?
Other books in the McKinley series by Kimberly Rae Jordan:
Forever My Love: Brooke’s story
When There Is Love: Victoria's story
250 pages, ebook
First published January 15, 2015
823 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 1, 2018
This Time with Love is my tenth book by Kimberly Rae Jordan. Having awarded an average of about 4.5 stars for her works you may surmise that I am a fan. I was particularly impressed by her message about repentance and forgiveness. Eric’s father's adultery while a missionary in Africa had disastrous consequences for him and his family. I was much impressed when, near the end of the book, Eric’s mother demonstrated Christ-like forgiveness when confronted with a direct consequence of her husband’s sin. I was also impressed with the author’s treatment of the challenges encountered by little people. It appears Eric’s younger sister, who is a little person, will be the subject of her own story in book 3 of this series. I was also impressed by Ms. Jordan’s ability to bring real people to life in real-life situations in such a believable way.
Unfortunately, I must admit that during the over three years since its publication as an EBook I am disappointed to find that typos, punctuation errors, dropped words and other editorial errors remain uncorrected. I was also disappointed that we never learn from whom Aban was protecting Eric. I hate to be left hanging. I also regretted how repetition and filler material caused the action in the first two-thirds of the book to be a bit tedious, dragging, and slow at times, although these deficiencies disappeared as she moved toward the closing scenes. I enjoyed this book, but I do not feel it measured up to Ms. Jordan’s best work.
Unfortunately, I must admit that during the over three years since its publication as an EBook I am disappointed to find that typos, punctuation errors, dropped words and other editorial errors remain uncorrected. I was also disappointed that we never learn from whom Aban was protecting Eric. I hate to be left hanging. I also regretted how repetition and filler material caused the action in the first two-thirds of the book to be a bit tedious, dragging, and slow at times, although these deficiencies disappeared as she moved toward the closing scenes. I enjoyed this book, but I do not feel it measured up to Ms. Jordan’s best work.
February 1, 2016
So let me start this off with saying I'm horrible at remembering to write reviews even if I love the book. It's even harder to remember if they are in a series and I have easy access to them.
As a book lover I read all kinds of things. My taste are very eclectic. So being drawn to these books aren't surprising.
Now I'd like to say this isn't my first Kimberly Rae Jordan book/series. I've read several and what I'm going to say about this book goes for the other books I've read from her.
As a Christian the reason I love this book so much and the other I've read by her is because the characters are real. The books aren't a fluffy "oh I'm a Christian I'm gonna fall in love and live happily ever after" type book. While I do enjoy some books like that. This book and her other books show that Christians aren't perfect, they make mistakes, and they can have messy crazy lives. The characters in this and her other books talk to God like He is right in the room and despite all the stuff going crazy around them are reaffirming all His promises. The characters relationship with God mirror what I or any of my Christian brothers and sisters go through. And in some of the books not all the characters are saved. When there are characters like that it's not some boom you need to be saved holier than thou craziness that some people think happens or unfortunately some people do. It show God being patient, loving, and while it might sound odd to someone romancing the child He so desperately wants to come into the fold. There isn't any heavy push. I love that about her books. She portrays Christianity and a relationship to God more like my own. Probably like so many others as well. I throughly appreciate how real this books are.
As a book lover I read all kinds of things. My taste are very eclectic. So being drawn to these books aren't surprising.
Now I'd like to say this isn't my first Kimberly Rae Jordan book/series. I've read several and what I'm going to say about this book goes for the other books I've read from her.
As a Christian the reason I love this book so much and the other I've read by her is because the characters are real. The books aren't a fluffy "oh I'm a Christian I'm gonna fall in love and live happily ever after" type book. While I do enjoy some books like that. This book and her other books show that Christians aren't perfect, they make mistakes, and they can have messy crazy lives. The characters in this and her other books talk to God like He is right in the room and despite all the stuff going crazy around them are reaffirming all His promises. The characters relationship with God mirror what I or any of my Christian brothers and sisters go through. And in some of the books not all the characters are saved. When there are characters like that it's not some boom you need to be saved holier than thou craziness that some people think happens or unfortunately some people do. It show God being patient, loving, and while it might sound odd to someone romancing the child He so desperately wants to come into the fold. There isn't any heavy push. I love that about her books. She portrays Christianity and a relationship to God more like my own. Probably like so many others as well. I throughly appreciate how real this books are.
January 18, 2015
Kimberly Rae Jordan is one of my absolute favorite authors - I am a sucker for in depth characters and she ALWAYS develops the characters so that you feel as though they are real people that you know. What a wonderful story of what God can do when you relinquesh control to Him and how things happen in life can come full circle. I really enjoyed Staci and Eric's story and how love developed and evolved to include Sarah. This family will face some trials in the upcoming series and reading this book will give you a front seat view. There are very real issues about self worth and sacrifice presented in such a way that you can really feel the emotions that the characters are experiencing. I also really enjoyed the subtle twists in the story line that kept you from being able to predict exactly how things were going to happen. It keeps you on your toes! This was a great way to spend my Saturday and I will be eagerly anticipating the next story even though I'm not really sure I'm going to like Brooke :-)
April 12, 2016
This was an adequate Christian romance. The characters were okay and the storyline was more interesting than most. This book tried to delve into complex modern relationships caused by our deteriorating American morality. It would have been better if the author didn't switch between the two main characters' POV, because while readers of this genre probably expect happy endings, at least there would be a higher level of tension and some doubt as to the outcomes of the character arcs. This book includes main characters with achondroplasia. As far as I could tell it was handled respectfully.
February 22, 2015
Although Staci and Eric did not communicate well, this story shows that we do have to make ourselves vulnerable to our spouses in order to reach the deep soul-mate type of love God intends for us to share. This parallels our vulnerability to God when we completely surrender everything to him. This was a well-written realistic story and an enjoyable read.
February 14, 2015
Wonderful story about two wounded but hopeful people. I was impressed by the perfect pacing of this story. The author painted a picture with her words and conveyed emotion without being too long winded. It flowed nicely. I look forward to more in this series.
April 7, 2015
I know this is a fictional story however I felt/thought some of the themes ran deep to the core. Special needs, generational sin, parenting legacy, healing n waiting on God. I do believe God does direct me to books to read to reach/show me his ways for my life. Thanks for this novel Kimberly.
April 4, 2015
Very moving
A passionate tale of faith and trust in God overcoming all.as a Christian who has made mistakes I saw much of myself in this story.
A passionate tale of faith and trust in God overcoming all.as a Christian who has made mistakes I saw much of myself in this story.
March 7, 2022
It is very rare to find, in the Christian romance genre, a Christian character that you want to grab by the shirt and slap sense into the person. Ladies and gentlemen, Eric McKinley.
This may not have been Ms. Jordan's intent, but Eric's character development demonstrates what has been a major problem in Christian circles: a person who has a dramatic testimony, but who is a new believer (or, in Eric's case, returning to a faith long abandoned), being pushed into the lecture circuit. Because his actions when first learning that his former lover, Anastacia/Staci, is raising his child, are NOT how a Christian man should respond. Yes, he's upset that he wasn't made aware, but Staci had legitimate reasons for not doing so (at that time in his life, he likely would have pressured her into aborting Sarah, or at best giving her up for adoption). And even his marriage proposals seem like someone who is still pushing his desires over what is best for her and his child (though, in the next book, it is mentioned that the two went through extensive pre-marital counseling, which all Christian couples should do).
But this is reality. And even though people read Christian fiction to escape it, it's refreshing to have realistic characters having real experiences, both good and bad. Not only with Eric, but his parents and now learning that his father's sins resulted in a child who never knew her dad. So therefore, five stars.
This may not have been Ms. Jordan's intent, but Eric's character development demonstrates what has been a major problem in Christian circles: a person who has a dramatic testimony, but who is a new believer (or, in Eric's case, returning to a faith long abandoned), being pushed into the lecture circuit. Because his actions when first learning that his former lover, Anastacia/Staci, is raising his child, are NOT how a Christian man should respond. Yes, he's upset that he wasn't made aware, but Staci had legitimate reasons for not doing so (at that time in his life, he likely would have pressured her into aborting Sarah, or at best giving her up for adoption). And even his marriage proposals seem like someone who is still pushing his desires over what is best for her and his child (though, in the next book, it is mentioned that the two went through extensive pre-marital counseling, which all Christian couples should do).
But this is reality. And even though people read Christian fiction to escape it, it's refreshing to have realistic characters having real experiences, both good and bad. Not only with Eric, but his parents and now learning that his father's sins resulted in a child who never knew her dad. So therefore, five stars.
June 8, 2020
This story starts tragically when two people meet after 6 years apart. The story goes on to define the lives of the two before they met again. Both have changed, but Anastasia, now Staci lives in fear that her life will go back to the way it was 6 years ago. Eric finds out that she had his daughter 5 years ago, but was born with a form of dwarfism. His life has changed significantly since he became a Christian after being held hostage in the Middle East. There lives cannot move forward until Staci forgives Eric and learns to trust not only in Eric's new heart, but her own. This story is painfully tragic and emotional that I shed tears for the pain and fear that ravages Staci. Eric applies 1 Corinthian 13 to build a new relationship with Staci, but forgets to use the most important words until he doesn't think there is anything he can do to salvage his relationship with Staci. This story is very emotionally charged, but the ending is almost like the author is promoting her next book. It left me with something foul in my soul.
September 27, 2021
Overall a good read
Spoilers included*
The book was very gripping. Overall a good book; but could have been better.
I found certain scenes missing, that would have made the book. For one, when Eric found out he had a daughter. It should have been included. Even if it was just one or two lines.
There were a couple more places like that.
I also found Staci and her need to be heard (understandable) got in the way of listening.
Sarah was a sweetie and a great part of the story.
Despite the drawbacks, it was worth reading.
Spoilers included*
The book was very gripping. Overall a good book; but could have been better.
I found certain scenes missing, that would have made the book. For one, when Eric found out he had a daughter. It should have been included. Even if it was just one or two lines.
There were a couple more places like that.
I also found Staci and her need to be heard (understandable) got in the way of listening.
Sarah was a sweetie and a great part of the story.
Despite the drawbacks, it was worth reading.
May 29, 2018
THIS TIME WITH LOVE
I read this book because I loved the Callaghan and McFadden series. This book did not draw me in like those stories did, although I did like the characters. I am going to continue with the series, because I have a feeling I will like the next two books better. Staci didn't seem to want to give Eric a chance and spent too much time whining about what had been, not what could be.
I read this book because I loved the Callaghan and McFadden series. This book did not draw me in like those stories did, although I did like the characters. I am going to continue with the series, because I have a feeling I will like the next two books better. Staci didn't seem to want to give Eric a chance and spent too much time whining about what had been, not what could be.
April 2, 2021
Beautiful family story - kind of a 2nd time around
Very romantic and beautiful story of a couple finding true love. Many exciting things pop up in their lives and the lives of his family that bring about many questions to be answered in more books..
But this one is certainly a must read. Tender, sweet, exciting, faith filled and romantic.
Very romantic and beautiful story of a couple finding true love. Many exciting things pop up in their lives and the lives of his family that bring about many questions to be answered in more books..
But this one is certainly a must read. Tender, sweet, exciting, faith filled and romantic.
April 9, 2022
I read a book by this author several years ago, and it affected me for good. I mentioned it in a blog post on an anonymous blog I had that had nothing to do with books.......and the author somehow ran across that blog post and was encouraged by whatever I said.
So I ran across more of her books and started reading them. Loved this one, and the characters.
So I ran across more of her books and started reading them. Loved this one, and the characters.
August 19, 2024
Lovely
I enjoyed reading Staci and Eric's story, and while Staci's history is very sad, the story itself is heartwarming. There are no superfluous words to beef up the story, just the right amount of tension and love to make this one a good read.
This is my second time to read this story and it's passed the test. I cannot wait to read it again.
Thank you Ms Jordan.
I enjoyed reading Staci and Eric's story, and while Staci's history is very sad, the story itself is heartwarming. There are no superfluous words to beef up the story, just the right amount of tension and love to make this one a good read.
This is my second time to read this story and it's passed the test. I cannot wait to read it again.
Thank you Ms Jordan.
February 1, 2021
Reunited
Eric sees his old girlfriend one weekend and is taken back to a love. His ex girlfriend has a secret that he wouldn't understand. He has a daughter. A very special daughter. Can he accept her, can he prove himself to her, her mother. .
Eric sees his old girlfriend one weekend and is taken back to a love. His ex girlfriend has a secret that he wouldn't understand. He has a daughter. A very special daughter. Can he accept her, can he prove himself to her, her mother. .
February 7, 2021
So Beautiful!
The story of Eric and Staci’s second chance at love is SO beautiful! If is a story of repentance, redemption, and forgiveness. It is fabulous every single time that I read it.
The story of Eric and Staci’s second chance at love is SO beautiful! If is a story of repentance, redemption, and forgiveness. It is fabulous every single time that I read it.
January 23, 2023
Interesting story.
Several different turns in this book kept me wanted to read it to the end. Just loved it None of Kimberly s books have made me not wanting to finish them She's a great writer.
Several different turns in this book kept me wanted to read it to the end. Just loved it None of Kimberly s books have made me not wanting to finish them She's a great writer.
April 25, 2024
This Time With Love
Such a heartfelt story about a love that would not quit. Even dating other people the live showed that it would not be broken for these two! Amazing love story!
Such a heartfelt story about a love that would not quit. Even dating other people the live showed that it would not be broken for these two! Amazing love story!
May 5, 2017
Another tearjerker
Kimberly Rae Jordan has a way of pulling at your heartstrings with her well-developed characters and intense story lines. Read at your own risk.
Kimberly Rae Jordan has a way of pulling at your heartstrings with her well-developed characters and intense story lines. Read at your own risk.
October 12, 2017
Excellent
What a wonderful story of love lost and found! So frustratingly real, you couldn't help but submerse yourself in the tale. Well son e!
What a wonderful story of love lost and found! So frustratingly real, you couldn't help but submerse yourself in the tale. Well son e!
January 14, 2018
Enjoyable experience
I enjoyed reading this book very much.I just loved the Christian feel of the book.It is a pleasure to read. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
I enjoyed reading this book very much.I just loved the Christian feel of the book.It is a pleasure to read. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
September 21, 2018
SOOO GOOD!!! read it!
March 3, 2019
Great book
I love the story about eric and stacy and God changed them so much and gave them daughter to care for
I love the story about eric and stacy and God changed them so much and gave them daughter to care for
May 24, 2019
This Time with Love
God is so awesome. He looks beyond our faults and sees our needs. He knows we all sin and fall short of His glory and He still loves and gives us the best.
God is so awesome. He looks beyond our faults and sees our needs. He knows we all sin and fall short of His glory and He still loves and gives us the best.
December 31, 2019
Love romance with some suspense
January 8, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. Sarah is absolutely adorable!
February 23, 2017
Well done book. The plot was interesting even with all the do-overs the story required. The characters were strong and filled with history. The issues involved were complex and required work to fix. Another good part of the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews