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Where Promises Endure

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Keeping her promise just got a lot more complicated.

As guardian for her younger brothers, waitress Clarissa Miller struggles to hold their family together but knows they need a male role model. However the more the local baseball coach fills in the gaps--and sparks her heart--the more she wishes they'd met a different way.

Zeke Matthews wants nothing more than to invest in his team both on and off the field, but his newest player's home life just threw him a curve ball. The more time Zeke spends with Clarissa's unique family, the more he longs to linger... except dating a parent is against school rules.

Maybe her promise to raise the boys could be a team effort, but if their forbidden romance is discovered, he'll have to choose between his dream job and her instant family. Perhaps the wisdom—and community—of Hope's Café can keep them from striking out?

Fans of Becky Wade, Denise Hunter, and Karen Kingsbury will fall in love with the charming world of the Café on Hope and Main.

Continue this heart-warming, faith-filled series today.

268 pages, Paperback

Published May 25, 2026

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About the author

Candee Fick

30 books305 followers
Candee Fick is a mocha latte fueled author who writes heartwarming, hope-filled Christian romance. She knows first-hand that while life is hard, God is good. That's why her stories show relatable characters overcoming real-life problems through their faith in God and the support of their small town communities. When Candee isn't weaving intricate plotlines at her favorite coffee shop, she can be found spending quality time with her family in Colorado or lost in the pages of a captivating story while letting the dust bunnies multiply. 

Be sure to follow her on BookBub for the latest on sale and new releases: https://bit.ly/4a2PCyU

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Audra.
Author 4 books24 followers
July 10, 2026
“Some expenses pay dividends you can’t measure in dollars.”

That line pretty much sums up the theme of Where Promises Endure, the second book in the Cafe on Hope and Main series. The first book in the series was good, but I think this one might beat it out by just a smidge. The setting was so well established in book one that it blossomed and wrapped around all who needed a welcome smile, a cup of coffee, or just a place to hang out with kindness, and well, Hope.

Clarissa lives on the ragged edge as she tries to provide a nurturing, loving home for her two younger brothers after their mother’s death. Personal life? Forget it. She juggles family, work at the diner, her final semester of her college degree, and a fledgling freelance business with all the grit and determination of a rafter paddling upstream away from the edge of a waterfall that keeps knocking her into the rapids. Her unshakable faith in God is evident in every prayer she raises in every circumstance she faces.

Zeke, a major league baseball hopeful knocked out by a bum shoulder, walks into a high school coaching position ripe with every flavor of landmine you can think of. Politics, designer handbags, entitled attitude mixed in with all the other responsibilities that make up an under funded athletic program. All he wants to do is coach great baseball and shape the integrity of a team of teenage boys into a group of young men prepared for the world ahead of them. Zeke’s prayers for guidance and direction are so heartfelt - brilliantly captured from a male perspective - yet, he still battles human nature and discovers falling prey to the harshness of reality, a humbling experience.

Their love story is complicated by a pesky non-fraternization clause in Zeke’s contract….

Clarissa and Zeke are two complex characters each trying to do the best they can in situations that might break lesser people. They come into the story with faith, and learn trial by trial that there are fiery furnaces that only God can overcome. But, God has a plan, and it’s a good one.

I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.

This is a story you don’t want to miss!
426 reviews7 followers
May 31, 2026
Clarissa is the guardian of her two younger brothers, Timothy, the older of whom is playing baseball on the high school team. Her time is severely overtaxed with working two jobs, finishing her college degree, and caring for her siblings. Coach Zeke, the high school baseball coach sees potential in Timothy and in his sister, since she is facing many of the obstacles his own mother faced. However, the school has a non-fraternization policy. As much as Zeke would like to pursue a relationship with Clarissa, it is prohibited. There is a further conflict with the wealthy and influential parents of another team member and the politics involved. As Clarissa struggles with all her problems, Bible verses she has committed to memory pop into her mind to encourage her.

This is a very enjoyable Christian romance with well-developed characters and an interesting story line. I certainly learned a lot about high school baseball and the politics involved. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of Christian fiction. The story has very good spiritual aspects such as depending on God to work everything out for our best.

Favorite Quote: “Mom always said that God is a father to the fatherless. That He promises to never leave them.

I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.
Profile Image for Michelle Dodge.
612 reviews9 followers
June 11, 2026
This is a clean, Christian romance novel. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

Clarissa is raising her brothers after her mom died. She is burning the candle at both ends trying to keep everything afloat financially. Her brothers love baseball. One is in high school and trying out for the team. The coach, Zeke, recognizes the raw talent and he gets a spot on the JV team. Zeke has signed a no fraternization clause after the past coach got in trouble. He thinks it will be easy to do until he meets Clarissa. Both Clarissa and Zeke pray for God to help them with things. Zeke keeps his promise, but it's not easy. Throw in an entitled family and the politics of players at the school, and there's lots of drama. Will Clarissa and Zeke ever have a chance?

I love how thy pray to God for help and guidance in their lives. they walk the Christian walk. This doesn't mean they're perfect, but they forgive when needed and ask for forgiveness. It was great to see how friends become family and one must learn to ask for help. This was a great story and a great read. Can't wait for the next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
274 reviews2 followers
June 15, 2026
Absolutely loved this one. It can be read as a standalone but you won't want to.
Absolutely loved this one. I had to keep reminding myself it was only a story, but the reality is that It is so spot on and relevant to many. My heart was breaking for Clarissa Miller, who is the guardian of her two younger brothers after her mother's death. She is doing all she can to keep the family together while holding down a job at Hope's Café, completing her college degree, doing freelance work to supplement the income and provide for her brothers. She has discovered that her newfound family at Hope's Café is there to help her not with charity, but with their love and support as extended family and friends. She learns valuable lessons from the present and the past, as does the new coach, Zeke Matthews. This is one that had me from the start. It is the second book in the series, but each one can be read as a standalone; however, I don't think you will want to.

I can't wait to read the next story in this series. I am already invested in the main characters. I know we will also most likely see more about Clarissa and Zeke.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Sande.
44 reviews2 followers
July 10, 2026
Oh, Candee did it again! I LOVED this book. I absolutely flew through it and found myself wanting to read just one more chapter over and over again.

Clarissa and Zeke were such wonderful characters, and I loved watching their relationship grow. One of my favorite aspects of this story was that they weren't portrayed as perfect. They made mistakes, reacted emotionally, jumped to conclusions, and sometimes judged too quickly—but they also reflected, took responsibility, and worked to make things right. That felt incredibly authentic to me. Those imperfect moments are part of real life and real relationships, and Candee captured them beautifully.

Beyond the romance, this story is filled with themes of strength, faith, family, found family, trust, and unconditional love. Every relationship felt meaningful, and together they created a story that was both heartwarming and emotionally satisfying.

Overall, this was a beautiful reminder that lasting love isn't about perfection—it's about choosing each other, extending grace, and continuing to grow together. I absolutely recommend this one.
Profile Image for MJ Lockey.
37 reviews
July 10, 2026
In Where Promises Endure, Candee Fick delivers a heartfelt, clean Christian romance filled with authentic emotions and real-life challenges. As the guardian of her younger brothers, the heroine is stretched to her limits, trying to balance school, work, financial pressures, and the overwhelming responsibilities of raising her siblings.
The hero, her brothers' coach, faces struggles of his own. Bound by professional rules and fraternization policies, he finds himself carefully navigating his growing feelings while trying to do what is right for everyone involved.
Fick does an excellent job portraying her characters' emotions and struggles, making their burdens, hopes, and uncertainties feel genuine and relatable. Readers will find themselves rooting for both characters as they seek to honor their commitments while remaining open to the possibility of love.
With its engaging characters, faith-filled themes, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after, Where Promises Endure is a touching story of perseverance, sacrifice, and discovering hope in the midst of life's challenges.
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,771 reviews
June 1, 2026
This is the second book in Candee Fick’s series “Cafe on Hope and Main.” This time the action is split between a family owned diner in a small town and the local high school’s baseball program. One of the part-time waitresses at the Cafe, Clarissa, carries a heavy load of finishing her university degree, being guardian of her two younger brothers after her mother’s death, and trying to keep up with expenses by her waitressing work and any design projects she can squeeze in. I quickly became invested in Clarissa’s character, and laughed, cried, and felt exhausted right along with her. Her romance with Zeke has plenty of bumps in the road, and I thoroughly enjoyed following along with it all. The two younger brothers’ characters are very well developed too.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
173 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2026
THIS is the kind of story that I reserve my 5 star ratings for!!

A riveting, emotionally engaging, well-written, clean story with wonderful, relatable characters living out their authentic Christian faith in the midst of realistic challenges, supported by family and small-town community. A book I will likely read again. And might even purchase a physical copy of! (High praise from a book addict with limited shelf space!)

I absolutely LOVED returning to the Cafe on Hope and Main world in this book 2 of the series. It could be read as a standalone but is best if you've read the first book. Already looking forward to the next book(s) in the series! Meanwhile, I'll be bumping up the rest of this author's books to higher priority on my TBR.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amy Anguish.
Author 20 books238 followers
July 7, 2026
It was a true pleasure to return to the diner from the first book in this series and catch up with several of the characters again. This story follows one of the waitresses and there were several times where I wondered if she was going to end up failing at something, considering how things were stacked against her. Same with the hero, a high school baseball coach who ticks of some of the "important" parents early on in the season. Watching how each character balances their chaos and prays for God's help throughout the story kept me turning pages. Those stolen moments where it wasn't certain if the romance would work out, also gripping. This is a great second book in the series. A pleasure to dive into a baseball romance in this summer season.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,826 reviews20 followers
July 10, 2026
I don’t know how Clarissa did it with the weight of caring for her younger brothers and all their expenses, finishing college, the many jobs she had to take to make ends meet, and all the things that kept happening to her like her laptop destruction and being accused of work espionage. She feels an immediate connection to her brother’s new baseball coach Zeke, but he’s signed a contract that forbids him from having anything other than a professional relationship with his players and their families. Zeke must weigh the job that is becoming burdensome with a boss who is more interested in money and connections with his growing feelings for Clarissa. He does jump to conclusions and makes a really bad day for her even worse. Her cafe family is amazing in their support and how they lift her up and help her succeed. This was a kisses only Christian romance.
13 reviews
June 9, 2026
Where Promises Endure (Cafe on Hope and Main) is a heartfelt romance and family drama centered on Clarissa, a college student raising her younger siblings while trying to keep her family together. Overwhelmed by responsibility, she works hard to support them while facing constant obstacles.

Her brother Timothy is mentored through baseball by coach Zeke who becomes an important source of stability and encouragement. At the same time, Clarissa finds unexpected support from her coworkers at the café and the wider community, who quietly step in to help her carry the weight she’s been holding alone.

The story highlights faith, resilience, and sacrifice, showing how hope and support can appear in the most difficult seasons.

Part of the ARC program
Profile Image for Michelle Houghton.
158 reviews6 followers
July 6, 2026
The power of faith and prayer takes center stage in this wonderful small town romance. This is the second book in a series, but can be read as a standalone. Author Candee Fick does an amazing job catching us up with the backstory if you have not read book 1.
The characters are beautifully written and full of life. The internal dialogue of both our leads is so human and well crafted. The found family in this book is remarkable and so so special.
The romance is so sweet, and so pure. But still so strong and felt fully.
The faith and use of prayer is perfection!
You can recommend this book to anyone, younger readers included.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda.
6 reviews
July 3, 2026
Thank you to Candee for allowing me to to read an ARC copy of this book! These thoughts are my own and I am not paid or sponsored to leave a review.

Once again, Candee has written a wonderful book that is not only sweet and heart warming but also faith based that made me smile so much. If you're a baseball fan I think you will really enjoy reading this too!

I am thankful to have been able to read another ARC of hers, especially being the next in this series. Once again I love how her books have the characters face real life problems that just about anyone can identify with.

Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Angela Maynard.
17 reviews
July 10, 2026
Sparks fly when Clarissa and coach Zeke bump into each other in the hallway at the high school. Complications arise when Clarissa's brother makes the baseball team. Zeke is being watched very closely because of the previous coach. Clarissa works hard and scrapes pennies to take care of her brothers. She's trying to launch her graphic design business. Now she has to deal with the "Karens" of the baseball boosters. Clarissa would do anything for her brothers. Zeke has to decide if dealing with the politics of high school baseball is worth it. This is a sweet story of 2 people finding their happily ever after.
173 reviews6 followers
June 21, 2026
Clarissa is burning the candle at both ends trying to be a good guardian to her younger brothers. When Timothy starts playing baseball, she meets his coach, Zeke, and they have an immediate connection. However, relationships between staff and families are strictly forbidden. Zeke is conflicted between his employment, his relationship to God, and his attraction to Clarissa. The way they both pray about their lives, and their relationships with friends and colleagues, is well portrayed. A lovely read.
I received an ARC from the author via Booksprout, but my opinion is given voluntarily.
Profile Image for Mary Mac.
123 reviews4 followers
July 6, 2026
We return to Hope’s Cafe where waitress Clarissa Miller works, she is guardian for her two younger brothers and is struggling to hold everything together.

Zeke Matthews is the school's new baseball coach, he wants nothing more than to invest in his team both on and off the field, but his attraction to Clarissa just threw a spanner in the works.

Beautiful story wrapped up in the lives of Clarissa, her younger brothers, Zeke and the owners and customers of Hope’s Cafe.

An enjoyable read for a lazy afternoon.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
172 reviews11 followers
May 30, 2026
Clarissa and Zeke's story is well thought out and well written that pulls you into their lives as well as the small town they live in. Enjoyable supporting characters as family and friends help with the many crisis within the story. Clarissa and Zeke growing closer to God amid learning their need for him in the day to day tasks. Remember to read the first book in the series as characters continue in the next. I was given an ARC copy and this is my voluntary review.
121 reviews4 followers
June 7, 2026
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review, the thoughts and opinions are my own. What a good reminder of trusting God with all the things in our life and allowing Him to carry us through the hard times. Also a great reminder of family and the love we have for each other. If you like baseball or are a baseball mom, you will enjoy this book. It was a bit of a slow read for me, but I did enjoy it and look forward to the characters developing more throughout the series.
Profile Image for Jane Culbertson.
221 reviews2 followers
July 1, 2026
A great sports romance. Clarissa is a dedicated sister who is raising her two brothers. Her schedule is very hectic to say the least. Zeke is a wonderful guy who happens to be her brother's coach. She really needs help. Zeke would like to lighten her load but there are problems. Will they be able to work out things or will rules and regulations get in the way. A delightful read you will not want to miss.
Profile Image for Lisa Young.
72 reviews2 followers
July 4, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this inspiring book in which Clarissa is blessed with friends and her faith in God to help her keep her promise to her mother while raising her brothers. Coach Zeke is interested in the Miller family, but has too many people interfering in his life to pursue her. Reading how both were challenged to let God have His way in His time was very uplifting. I very highly recommend this book by Candee Fick.
Profile Image for Lisa Taylor.
155 reviews6 followers
July 7, 2026
Where Promises Ensure by Candee Fick is the second book of the Cafe on Hope and Main.

I cannot say enough good things about this story or the writer. I really enjoy books that are faith-based, clean reading, and engaging and a story that will take you through so many emotions, this book checks all the boxes. 

I loved all the wonderful characters. I would recommend this book, as it can be read as a stand-alone, I would suggest reading the first book, because it's such an amazing story.
Profile Image for Sandy Edwards.
100 reviews9 followers
June 25, 2026
Where Promises Endure is the second book in the faith-based Café on Hope and Main series. I really enjoyed the story line because I love baseball and it is very realistic!
Clarissa Miller is a server at Hope’s Café. Her family must come first because she is the guardian of her two younger brothers. Her oldest brother is on the high school baseball team. God’s promises endure and she is fulfilling this by caring for and keeping her family together. I really felt how difficult it was for Clarissa to juggle her adult responsibilities. What makes her special is her ability to make others feel valued and be seen.
Zeke Matthews is a high school baseball coach who wants to be known for being reliable, principled, and trustworthy. He fell in love with baseball as a scared kid who desperately wanted something to be proud of. He got into coaching for the kids and takes his role seriously as he is shaping young lives. He is determined to be a better man than his alcoholic father.
Clarissa is a graphic artist doing work for the baseball team. Zeke appreciates her character, strength, and quiet faith, as she reminds him of his mother’s determination, dignity, and priority of Zeke. Clarissa and Zeke have a connection, but Zeke has a non-fraternization policy that he is expected to follow. Will they be able to build a relationship and have the promise of a future? I highly recommend that you read this heartwarming story showing that God’s promises do endure!
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.


Profile Image for Tracey.
27 reviews
July 10, 2026
A beautiful story of friendship, romance, and faith. This story touches on many emotions as the characters journey through their struggles learning to rely on God and discover what is truly important in life. Enjoyed this second book in the Café on Hope and Main series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,323 reviews30 followers
July 10, 2026
A really sweet story about trusting in the Lord's timing as well as His sovereignty. I loved the first book, and this one was just as good. Real life struggles with real life reactions - learning to trust is so hard. Great characters. Would love to visit the Cafe on Hope and Main. Looking forward to the next book in this series - hint, hint.
Profile Image for MaryEllen.
3,135 reviews33 followers
May 29, 2026
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.

The romance is between two strong Christians who often pray. Although this story is set in a city, it has a small-town feel. It shows both the good and bad of small communities.
21 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2026
This was definitely worth reading
Profile Image for Tina at Mommynificent.
691 reviews19 followers
June 10, 2026
I loved this story, even more than the first book in the series! My heart went out to Clarissa throughout this book at all she was trying to juggle and all the people she was trying to please. She really was in an impossible situation but she managed it with grace and gave it her all! The community that surrounded her at the cafe was amazing and made me cry the way they loved her and supported her! The forbidden aspect of this romance was frustrating (as intended by the author) and I was grateful for the way it resolved in the end. It felt both realistic and satisfying. I also really loved the relationship between the MMC and Clarissa's brothers!

I received a complimentary electronic ARC of this book from the author.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews