Oh I loved this book! Very real, very poignant, it hit the right spot. And there's a touch of humour throughout even though the theme is a serious one. Megan and Kris are on two different sides of a pendulum. She is the daughter of a local pastor, steeped in faith and conviction. He, once an Elder in the Mormon church, questioning his faith, uncertain, no longer active. Both disillusioned, both full of hurts. But for completely different reasons.
Although it's my first exposure reading a book from a Mormon perspective, it was fascinating, it was interesting and it was easy to understand. The question of faith is a very individual one, which Ms Losee portrayed exemplary. What this book conveys, with exquisite penmanship, is that there are no coincidences, God works in mysterious ways, God has a plan for all of us. This isn't just about religious beliefs, or lost faith, or even finding ones faith, this is a beautiful story of finding "self", of healing, of acknowledgment and of a heartwarming romance.
I giggled at Kris, his obvious jealousy was hilarious but he's such a heartfelt guy, he feels everything profoundly. The betrayal and abandonment of his father, the confusion and anger that God allowed it to happen. The hurt oozes off him, his withdrawal from his family, from his faith. He's a real mess, until Megan comes back into his life. He starts to evaluate everything that happened, he starts to see the true picture of what was, and he hurts even more. The pain now mingled with guilt. My heart broke for him, it matters not what age a child is, the devastation of a ruined marriage is profound. But dear heavens, he hears, what should be joyous news, and it decimates him. The anger, the despair, the resentment flares up anew. Then he confesses, to the most unlikely person, all he feels, and shoot, I got goosebumps, BIG goosebumps. And the tears started to flow freely from my eyes with the events that transpired next, but warming tears, beautiful joyful tears.
I don't remember the last time I read a book that impacted me quite so much, it's honesty in words, it's real feelings, real fears, real emotions in prose. The author set my emotions on overdrive with this read! Family is the core, faith is the centre. Even when family doesn't agree, love and faith can, and do, overcome everything. It's heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. This book is so full of hope, and light and faith. It's beautiful. It's touching. It's puts so much into perspective, for me anyway. Even though it is a book on LDS, this book speaks to all people of faith, not only those of LDS, this is a book that highlights faith and Christ, without it being a sermon, it's just poignant and emotional and warming and WONDERFUL!
This book had me from the get go and I absolutely loved it. B. Losee addressed the real and significant doubts and trials so well. I found myself relating to both characters because of my own life experiences or from discussions I’ve had with people around me.
Kris and Megan had such a fantastic connection from meeting on his mission to when they reconnected 5 years later. Both of them have their own struggles and trials they’re facing regarding faith and trusting God’s plan for them. Megan’s is facing distance from her parents after her conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and how desperately she wants to have that relationship. Kris is struggling with how his home life fell apart while he was serving his mission and struggles with thinking his faithful service didn’t help his family. When Megan’s dad ends up in the hospital and Kris goes to support her, it was so interesting to see the growth of their characters and how things ended working out.
Favorite parts -the prologue-so many good moments happen in it and how it set the stage for the book. -how Megan and Kris kept running into each other after 5 years and how they both reacted to each other. (Pizza being the best run in). -Megan’s faith and her trying to trust God’s promptings -Megan accepting Kris even when he didn’t think she would. -Kris and Megan both finding healing and how they supported each other. -Kris’ mom and her wisdom about Megan -also Stasia. She’s such a fantastic best friend for Megan and she provided wisdom and funny moments.
Favorite Quotes With the sun setting behind her, she’s angelic, which seems accurate since, in some ways, it feels like she’s saving me.
How am I ever going to thank him? We aren’t even a couple, and he’s leaving at the drop of a dime to follow me across the country. It’s the kind of selfless support the Kingstons offered me after my baptism, but it hits differently with Kris. Probably because, with every touch and smile, he’s stealing bits of my heart.
A relationship with me isn’t going to be easy. I’ve got a long way to go.” “No relationship is easy, Kris. We’ve all got things to work on. If we waited until we were perfect, Heavenly Father’s plan would never work. I want to grow with you.”
Her kindness is unfailing. She’s oxygen when I struggle to breathe, the light I search for in the darkness. When I feel most lost, it’s her support and voice that pulls me from despair. Megan is everything my soul needs to heal the broken pieces.
I’m very outspoken about my craving for stories about Latter-day Saint/Mormon characters—especially ones that walk the middle ground between picture-perfect faith portrayals and salacious tell-alls about the church being the worst. I live in that in-between space, and I think most people do too, but it’s hard to find books to tell those stories, and I for one am desperate for them.
So I was thrilled to discover @authorblosee’s book A MATTER OF FAITH, which is out today. Megan joined the church at the end of high school, but it fractured her relationship with her parents, especially her southern preacher father, who hasn’t responded to her texts for five years. She’s happy when she runs into Kris, one of the missionaries who taught her back in Kentucky (who happens to be very cute). But after some heartbreaking experiences, Kris doesn’t go to church anymore. The book follows both characters as they work through their struggles and find an unexpected confidante in each other.
I love reading to experience the unfamiliar, but sometimes I want something that just feels like home. While the story and characters were new, the setting felt so cozy and warm to me because I knew the places the book described so well after six years living there. There were so many little micro-cultural moments that had me feeling emotional because I knew them so well but almost never see them represented in media (the Marvel-obsessed roommate? Chef’s kiss). The bits of southern culture sprinkled in also warmed my heart after living in the south for five years. And the characters themselves were both earnest and lovable as they worked through their issues. I found myself getting emotional more than once as I read. There’s one particular interfaith moment that I can’t say much about, but it was the pinnacle of a book I loved all the way through.
I hope B. Losee writes more of this genre—I’ll be the first one in line to read it.
This heartfelt and engaging LDS novel tells the story of Megan, a young woman whose decision to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints comes at a deeply personal cost—her parents’ disapproval. Despite the emotional strain, Megan chooses to follow her faith, ultimately leading her to build a new life in Utah. Her journey is one of courage, sacrifice, and quiet determination, making her an instantly relatable and inspiring character.
Five years later, Megan’s story takes an unexpected turn when she reconnects with Kris, one of the missionaries who originally taught her. However, the reunion is far from simple—Kris is no longer active in the Church. What follows is a beautifully woven story of second chances, personal growth, and the power of faith and connection. Their evolving relationship is filled with both tender and challenging moments that keep you emotionally invested.
This book strikes a wonderful balance between humor and depth. There are moments that will genuinely make you laugh out loud, while others will have you reflecting on faith, agency, and forgiveness. The storyline keeps you guessing as it unfolds, with just enough twists to maintain intrigue without losing its heartfelt core.
Overall, this is a feel-good novel that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a story about love—both human and divine—and the way people can find their way back, even after they’ve wandered. Whether you’re looking for something uplifting, romantic, or spiritually meaningful, this book delivers on all fronts.
4.75 stars: I really enjoyed this LDS romance! It's been 5 years since Kris served his mission in the South - where he helped to teach Megan the gospel. Now they're unexpectedly meeting back up at a YSA ward in Utah...except he's inactive. Both Megan and Kris had struggles with their parents to overcome (estranged from their fathers), which added depth to their conversations and interactions with each other's families. I did find it unrealistic that no one has big families with tons of siblings - the large family dynamic, especially with extended families, is something I think is pretty common in our Church culture, so that absence felt odd to me here. I also wanted more depth from the YSA scene; I would love to see that portrayed accurately in print, but we only got tiny tastes here, as Megan and Kris mainly interact away from the ward/others. The cast of characters was really insular, and while that had its advantages, I sometimes felt like it was overly convenient (of course his roommate would like her best friend, since they're the only two other YSAs who are relevant in the plot). Those are just my minor notes, though, because I really liked this book and had a hard time putting it down. I loved watching Megan and Kris get to re-know each other. There were some really heartwarming moments and scenes, not only with the romance but also with familial reconciliation. Losee handles big emotions really well, and I found myself caring deeply about these characters and their tricky circumstances.
This is a charming, faith building, sweet romance. Megan as a pastor‘s daughter, she is in high school and her best friend has invited her to a fireside. She knew her best friend was LDS (Mormon). When she agreed to go to this meeting with an inspirational speaker, and of course refreshments after, she didn’t realize she would feel the spirit as strongly as she did. Kris was a LDS missionary when he met Megan. Five years later so much has happened, but when they meet by chance, there is a magnetic pull between them. The love story is fun, hopeful and inspiring. Nobody’s perfect, we all have our weaknesses, we all question our faith, and who we can trust. Communication is so important, but the road is always better when we rely on our faith in our beliefs. This story of two people, finding a connection, healing old wounds, finding faith in Jesus Christ, and letting their spirits grow whole again, is a beautiful beginning . This is a Christian romance with an emphasis on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author. This is not the type of book I usually read (I'm a thrillers girl) but I saw it offered on a Facebook authors forum and thought why not? I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and didn't recall seeing too many of this type of genre at my local Deseret Book. Well, I read it in one sitting in an afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it (I have no qualms about not finishing a book if I don't like it when I hit 20% read)! It was well-written (perfect amount of dialogue) and well-paced. Yes, it's very predictable, but the journey is sweet and I laughed and I cried. The characters are a little too nice and agreeable which usually annoys me, but despite that I fell for both of them and was rooting hard for them. Their difficult backstories were completely understandable and relatable (especially as a church member). Not sure I'd pick up another book by this author if her other books are all this cutesy (though I probably will look and see!), but it was a very refreshing and uplifting afternoon break for me, and it WAS fun to read a fiction book set within my faith.
I received an advance copy from the author and absolutely devoured this book. Not only is it a sweet clean romance, it is a faith building experience. I loved the look we had into Megan's conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but also the look we got into Kris and his mission, especially when he later struggled with his faith. I was the exact target audience for this book, being a member of the Church and having served a mission (and marrying someone who also served with me) and this book touched my soul in such a delightful way. Fiction can be faith affirming and reflect on such important topics like faith, forgiveness, and love. This book hit all the marks, and I loved it and would recommend it 100%. My only complaint is we need more books in this niche genre! I think there is a desire for more wholesome romances that explore LDS culture and faith as well!
Note: I received a free copy of the e-arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own, and thank you to B. Losee for this opportunity!
I am very stumped on how to rate this one. For a romance, it was a bit disappointing in that it was very much an insta-love situation. Kris and Megan very quickly reached the romantic relationship stage, so if you're wanting a love story, I probably wouldn't recommend this one.
But, if you're interested in this for the faith background, I probably would recommend this one! I found Kris and Megan's faith journey to be sweet and appreciated the spiritual insight given. This was the second latter-day saint romance I've read, and it definitely leans much more heavily into the faith aspect than the romance. I think if I had realized that before reading, I would've enjoyed it more.
I loved this book! I would give it 4.5 stars. I don’t read a lot of books in this type of genre but I like author’s other books so I gave it a try and I am so glad that I did! I loved reading it so much that I had a hard time putting the book down and finished it in just a few days. I especially liked the characters. The characters, Kris and Megan, were so likable and felt so real that I had to remind myself periodically that they aren’t real people. I don’t read a lot of church fiction, but I felt like the religion was interwoven through the story at just the right amount. It was touching without being overwhelming. It was a wonderful, sweet book!
I enjoyed this book. It reminded me of reading Jack Weyland books as a teenager. Wholesome, easy to read, clean romance and made me think of things in my own life and how I handle them. I liked the way both Megan and Kris helped each other. It was very realistic. And they helped each other see that through turning to the Lord they could get the most help. The friendship turned romance was great. Good, clean read. I would recommend for my teenage daughters as well as adults. I would give this 4.5 stars.
What a beautifully written, beautiful story. I teared up several times and also laughed out loud several times. As a returned missionary, I related to so many things, and as an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I truly appreciated this story and all of its wonderful lessons. There is so much to learn about forgiveness and healing, relationships and faith. I received an ARC copy of this book but have since bought my own paperback to add to my library. Absolutely loved it!!
I just received this ARC on Monday and finished it in just two days! The story was fun and sweet, the characters were real and well developed, and it was nice to read a book that is honest about what we believe. I’m hoping this author continues with a story about Stasia next, since it’s set up for that. I was not paid in any way for this review.
I really enjoyed this book. I could relate somewhat to Megan regarding rejection from parents regarding choices pertaining to the gospel. I admired her going forward because of her faith and knowledge of the gospel. I enjoyed the interaction of Chris, Megan and Stasia.
This was a delightful story of family and friendship and the struggle that can come from growth. The characters felt like people I know and were deep and I wanted to help them. I loved how the story taught values of forgiveness and love.
This is a beautifully, sweet book. The characters are complex and interesting. I love how much growth takes place in both of their lives. Forgiveness, love and faith are all found in this story. I loved it.
This was a fun & clean romance, but it also had a lot more depth than I was expecting. The characters dealt with struggles in faith, family, and forgiveness. Not only did they grow in love, but they grew as people. Overall an engaging and uplifting read!
This was such a sweet story! I loved how Megan’s story mirrored Kris’s that lead to his forgiveness. I couldn’t help but tear up at the end. Such a good happily ever after 💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Advanced Reader Copy: A story of faith, questions and deep love, finding family and healing. My first Religious romance book. It felt relatable and I loved the broken characters of Kris and Megan. Both have their own personal journey to make but find their journey is better together. This book reads easily and has the right amount of falling in love and regaining faith. I truly enjoyed it! It's a win for me!! It's cute, fun and full of real moments.
Megan is a convert whose life was inarguably altered by her decision to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was raised in another church, where her father was the pastor. He, and to a degree her mother, have turned their backs on Megan. She moves from her home in Kentucky to pursue an education at BYU, where she runs into someone she hasn’t seen in 5 years.
Kris is a returned missionary who no longer attends church. His whole world blew up when he returned from his mission, and he has not been able to forgive God or his family. When Kris runs into Megan again, he’s excited, happy even, to see her. But he can’t help but hesitate to get reacquainted. He doesn’t want his lack of testimony to make Megan doubt what he and other missionaries taught her.
This is a beautiful, fun, heart-rending, and heart-knitting book about love, conviction, forgiveness, and being true.
I loved all of the characters in this story. If you love sassy best friend characters, you don’t want to miss Megan’s best friend, Stasia! She is just the right amount of teasing, loving, and meddling.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I appreciated the honest depiction of struggling to be the kind of person and disciple you want to be.