A Whim and a Prayer

by Julie Lessman

(NOTE! THIS BOOK IS A SWEET INSPIRATIONAL WITH A HIGHER LEVEL OF ROMANTIC PASSION)

She’s a former orphan desperate to protect her heart.
He’s a best friend who protects her from the start.
Till prayer protects them both from a true love torn apart.

Discarded like so much trash on the steps of an orphanage at age two, seventeen-year-old Winifred Dennehy thinks God has it out for her. Abandoned by abusive parents and born cross-eyed to boot, she spent the first four years of her life battling bullies and verbal abuse. Deliverance came in the form of one Beckett Campbell, the ten-year-old orphan who became her best friend and guardian angel for life, along with an orphanage volunteer by the name of Mrs. D. When Mrs. Charity Dennehy adopts Winnie into her family, has her crossed eyes fixed, and secretly arranges for Beckett to be fostered and then adopted by elderly neighbors down the street, Winnie figures her luck has changed. But instead of attributing it to God like Beckett does, she’s inclined to believe it’s her own grit, charm, and spontaneity that has paved the way.

From the moment twenty-four-year-old Beckett Campbell saw the tiny, cross-eyed orphan who reminded him of the sister he lost, he wanted to love and protect her forever. Best friends from the start despite over five years apart, Winnie’s naïve spontaneity for wild hairs and whims keeps Beck’s mature responsibility busy and happily so. Until the little girl he wanted to protect suddenly becomes the young woman he wants to love. When Winnie insists on protecting their friendship from the fear and risk of anything more, Beck has a decision to make. Friendship forever … or a life apart from the best friend he loves. Praying that Winnie will change her mind, Beck doesn’t hold out much hope for that day. But when an unexpected turn of events alters both of their lives, it puts “a whim and a prayer” on a collision course that just might make a way.

479 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2026

About the author

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Whim and a Prayer is a wonderful historical fiction novel about orphans and their changing paths plus precocious littles! As soon as I met tiny little spunky Winnie, I was hooked. She’s so young and such a pistol! Fighting boys bigger than her. Wanting to believe she’s not the trash they say she is. Not the trash her parents said she was when they dropped her off at the orphanage.

Her name is really Winifred. But can you imagine calling a tiny little girl with blonde curls Winifred? Especially when she’s cross-eyed and a spitfire? No, Winnie is so much better.

When Beck finds Winnie, she reminds him of the sister he lost. And he immediately becomes her protector. But after they are adopted and grow up, his feelings change. He’s no longer feeling like an older brother but maybe more like a wannabe suitor.

Will Winnie accept this change? Will she accept that God has been for her this whole time, working things for her good? Or will she continue to fight and keep herself separate from the rest of the world?

I loved the spiritual aspects of the story. And the extended family has a special place in my heart. I love big families and all they entail. I can’t wait until my kids have kids and we can start having the large family I remember as a child. Cousins everywhere! My grandpa was the youngest of 12, and when his family got together it was amazing!

I highly recommend you read this book and the whole series!

This is part of a series. Please read the series in order. You aren’t required to, but it is always better to read more books than less!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Whim and a Prayer is the first book I have read written by Julie Lessman. This is the fourth book in the Cousins O’Connor series, which is a spin-off series. I read it as a standalone and was able to enjoy it. Though I might have to go back and read some of the other books in the series.

This story was a little bit slow for me to start, but once I got into it, the story picked up, and by the end I was up late into the night to finish the story. Winnie was adopted, and from that, she often feels abandoned and unlovable. Beck is Winnie’s best friend. When they were in the orphanage together, Beck always protected Winnie, and now at 18, Winnie is still in need of rescue. Beck has fallen for Winnie, but Winnie doesn’t feel lovable. They finally come up with the idea that by Christmas they will see if they can give it a chance, but to date other people in the meantime. Winnie finds herself in a compromised position when her date drugs her. Beck shows up and rescues Winnie. When Christmas comes, Winnie still doesn’t feel ready, but when something unexpected happens, things begin to change. This story had all the twists and turns, and I was holding on to my seat. I enjoyed my time in this story.  

This best-friends-to-lovers romance was perfect and sweet, with kisses only. There were a few scenes of lead-up between the married couple, and there was also mention of assault.

Julie Lessman did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout the story.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

[Rosalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first became acquainted with this O'Connor family a number of years ago, when I read Mitch & Charity's story. I think I've read a few others, but I definitely have not had the privilege of reading all of the others....but when the opportunity presented itself to read this newest book, I jumped for it.

Winnie is quite the heroine! Because of her young childhood of growing up in an orphanage, she's full of spunk and sass. She's always depended on her best friend Beck to be there for her. Now, in this book, he wants more from her, and she's terrified she'll lose her best friend.

So much sweetness, lots of sass, and lots more. This is a sweet story (with some plenty hot kisses, be forewarned!) and also redemption.

I loved this book, and I think it a great read for anyone who loves historical romantic fiction.

                Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Whim and a Prayer by Julie Lessman is definitely my most favorite book of the O'Connor's clan stories. I love how Lessman includes a family that has been in my imagination for a LOOOONG time. I have loved this family, and every time Lessman writes another story that includes this family, it is a must purchase book. With this story, Lessman has crafted my favorite romance tropes. I love a Best Friend to More story. With Beckett and Winnie, Lessman does exactly that. She gives Winnie personal scares that she has to overcome in order to accept God, then she can accept love from others. The description does include more spice than normal Christian fiction. BUT at least, the romance is between married couples. Some might not like this aspect but I actually enjoy it to show that Christian are not prudes when it comes to romance. Overall, A Whim and A Prayer ended too quickly for me. I needed more. I definitely will be purchasing a physical copy when available.

I received a complimentary copy of A Whim and A Prayer by Julie Lessman through Just Read Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.

[Stephanie Mccall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I should warn you that if you get a "whim" to read this book, you may lose significant sleep. Personally, I read the entire last third in one go because once I hit it, I absolutely had to know what happened and how everything resolved. Yet in true Julie Lessman fashion, the entire story is absolutely lovely. I was thrilled to reunite with the cousins O'Connor and the entire clan, and especially to get to know Beck and Winnie.

Winnie and Beck have one of the best "friends to lovers" stories I have ever seen. Their early years at the orphanage are nothing short of touching, but even then you can see real hints of who they will grow up to be and how they will support each other. Better, Beck does continue protecting Winnie, and Winnie remains a whimsical yet rebellious young woman. Yet the entire romance is not about Winnie being "book smart and street stupid," or Beck having to "save" her all the time. Rather, both find their assumptions about each other challenged to the core. They experience blistering chemistry onstage and off. And as is said at one point, love *and* friendship get to reign.

The characters in themselves are wonderful as always. As a professional writer who grew up on musicals and still adores theater, I could identify with Winnie's personality if not her rebellious streak. Yet yes, like Winnie, I am determined to assert independence and autonomy--sometimes to my spiritual detriment--and have pushed back against people or situations that make me feel stifled. Additionally, Winnie's revelations regarding why she can't move to the next level with Beck, absolutely broke my heart. More than once, I closed my eyes and breathed, "Oh, sweetie. Oh, baby, no." But Winnie Dennehy is anything but pitiable or a victim. She's strong when, and because, she finally lets herself be soft.

As for Beck, I admit my doubts about him at times. He sometimes came off as having a little too much Frank Butler--or Mitch Dennehy--in him, especially when he accused Winnie of "running the show." My twenty-first century mind kind of went, "Oh, and men don't? Look at your era, pal--men hold all the cards." But that's the thing--I have a *twenty-first century* mindset. Once I stepped back, I saw Beck for the gentle and patient guy he was--and the gritty, determined guy he had to be, in order to show real love. That's not an easy balance to pull off, and Julie has done it plenty of times. Beck Campbell does stand out though, because Winnie isn't his "damsel in distress." Deep friendship undergirds his love whether he wants that or not, and it tempers him as much as it does her.

The plot itself surprised me at every turn with its understated complexity. Yes, Julie does pull off one of the big twists she's famous for. Yet beyond that, we get plenty of family love--and family tension--at all levels of the O'Connor clan. We get incredible drama of all kinds, a lot of which could've been overblown but comes off great because of the author's incredibly deft hand. We get a unique and somewhat understated romance--although, those scenes with the claddagh? *Swooning all over the place!*

Finally and as always, Julie's spiritual threads are great. Again, this isn't the first time she's written a "good boy and 'bad' girl" scenario. She's done it great with Charity, with Gabe, and in her other series with characters like Cat. But Winnie's journey is more coupled with Beck's, so that it doesn't become a "conversion" issue. Beck has to surrender too, and he has to let the Spirit lead in some extremely tough circumstances.

The spiritual threads and interactions I loved most though, happen between Winnie and Charity. As a woman who considers her mom her "sidekick" and has also butted heads with both parents (again, the independence thing), my heart squeezed and broke for mother and daughter. I rooted for them to find common ground--ground that, as Charity hints, doesn't always hinge on rebellion. And yes, as I have said in other reviews, I am in *love* with Charity's character growth. I feel like this is the heroine of Julie's heart, and although she drove me mad at times, I have cheered for her through nine books and over forty years on the timeline. Seeing her as she is now--well, look at God!

I did wonder about a couple of spots, such as some conflicts and questions between Henry and Amy that weren't resolved, or why Beck ever considered the priesthood (it's brought up but doesn't become a major plot point). But the rest of the story is so good, I won't be taking stars. What I will be taking though, is an opportunity to reread at least some of the O'Connor saga--I mean, this thing is better than The Waltons, by a long shot. :) I cannot wait to see whose story comes next and pray Julie can write fast!

[Wren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winifred Dennehy and Beck (or Beckett Campbell) have been best friends since she was only 5, and he was a bit older; when they were at a Boston orphanage where life was brutal. Though they were soon adopted, they've never forgotten their time there. Or their friendship.

Winnie is a (young) student at Radcliffe College. And she is boy crazy, in addition to extremely naive. Beck is more than a little worried about that. But since she blows off every boy pretty much after the first few dates, Winnie's told him that he has nothing to worry about. (Though there IS that college fraternity boy with the terrible reputation...)

To complicate matters even more, Beck has discovered that not only does he love Winnie, as a best friend should; he's IN love with her. And there's still that college boy to worry about.

Julie Lessman's newest captures perfectly the sense and sensibilities of post-WWII America. Her characters are winsome and captivating; and their faith journeys are as well. A Whim and a Prayer is a breath of fresh air that will encourage your heart.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance is a favorite genre of mine. A Whim and a Prayer by Julie Lessman is Book 4 in the The Cousins O'Connor series. I have not read the first books in this series, although this book seems to read good as a stand alone novel also. I do enjoy reading books from the beginning of a series, so I am probably going to go back and read the first books soon.

The storyline had me hooked from the very beginning. The main characters in this story are Winifred "Winnie" Dennehy and Beckett. Winnie and Beckett have known each other since Childhood, meeting in an Orphanage where they were residents. Winnie has had a rough life, abused and then abandoned by her parents, she came to live at the Orphanage. Beckett and Winnie became best friends while at the Orphanage and remained on each other minds, even after Winnie was adopted and found her forever family. Mrs. D, who is now Winnie's family, also arranges for Beckett to be adopted by a family who lives really close to their family, including Winnie. Beckett is very grateful to God for all that has happened in his life, whereas Winnie feels God has abandoned her just like her parents did. I really LOVE that Beckett is strong in his faith and he sees that Winnie has grown into a beautiful young woman. He truly has his heart set on getting Winnie to notice him and he hopes that the LOVE he feels for her she feels for him. Winnie is determined to remain BEST FRIENDS with Beckett and isn't too keen on taking the friendship to a relationship level. I was very engrossed in the storyline that I couldn't stop reading. I really LOVE that Winnie had a change of heart and began to trust others in her life. Beckett was a gentleman and always there for Winnie, especially through the tough times. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Romance. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Abi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, Loved, Loved it. I have been following Julie Lessman for over 15 years now. It all started with her Daughters of Boston series. They hooked me, Hook - Line and Sinker. I was so excited to get into this book tour. I love reading clean Christian romances and Julie writes the best. I love her Christian perspective she brings to everyone of her books. She keeps God at the forefront in her writing. Lessman writes as if the story is unfolding right before your eyes. Her characters come to life. In A Whim and a Prayer, Whinnie is a spunky, spitfire seventeen year old. Almost eighteen as she reminds everyone at the beginning of the story. She is an orphan that was adopted by Mitch and Charity Dennehy when she was little. I felt as if I was right in the living room watching the story unfold. Every book I've read of Julie's are page turners. Though this is the fourth book in the O'Connor Cousins series, this is the second one I've read with one more in my Amazon library waiting to be read. A Whim and a Prayer didn't disappoint in the least bit. If you want good clean Christian romance Julie comes highly recommended.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this sweet friends to lovers story! I loved the historical detail and how the characters grow up over the course of the story. I loved the aspect of their working for the theater, it added such a fun element to the story! While I haven’t read the previous books in the series, I didn’t feel like it detracted from Winnie and Beck’s story.

I received this book from JustRead. This is my honest review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always loved Julie Lessman's books. I read a bunch of them years ago and haven't read her in a long time. I was so excited when I started reading this one that it includes the same family that I love from some of the other books I read. A Whim and A Prayer features Winnie Dennehy and her best friend Beck. Winnie turns 18 and wants more freedom to experience the world, act and date. Her friend and her cousin try to keep her in line, and Beck finally declares his real feelings for her. Winnie knows she can't be in love with him, so she pushes the limit and finds herself in a difficult situation- a situation that leads her to discover and embrace multiple important truths.
What I love most about Lessman's books is that there is always a strong element of faith, a salvation or a life truly changed by the Lord, but there are also adventurous spirits, mistakes made, and swoonworthy kisses. I flew through the book because I just couldn't put it down. This is a definite high recommendation for me.
I did recieve a free e-copy of this book for review. All thoughts shared are my honest opinion.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I was little, my mom would watch the following soap operas every day: Loving at 11:00 AM, All My Children at 12:00 PM, One Life to Live at 1:00 PM, and General Hospital at 2:00 PM. She would then watch The Phil Donahue Show at 3:00 PM followed by Oprah at 4:00 PM. Then boring news would come on and I stopped caring about TV until all the fun shows came back at 8:00 PM. I am, 100%, a latch-key kid from the 80s who was raised by the TV. Why does any of this matter? Well, it doesn’t, but it does make me a little bit of an expert on soap operas. I absolutely should not have been watching them, but I really loved them. I was so fluent in soap-opera culture that the parodies Soap and Soap Dish are still two of my favorites to this day because of how much fun they make of soap operas and soap culture. Why does it matter that I am a soap-opera expert? Because reading A Whim and a Prayer by Julie Lessman reminded me of every soap I’ve ever watched. When I was 5, I was enthralled by them. When I was a teenager, I was hooked on them. But as I grew into actual adulthood, I realized how goofy and campy they were. Unfortunately, I had to DNF A Whim and a Prayer because it is just too soap-opera cheesy for me. Every chapter ending felt like every fade to black from every soap I’ve ever watched. I could not buy into the world Lessman created in this book because it felt campy, cheesy, and over the top “Christian” (not real Christian, but stuffy Christian). I also really, really struggled with the main female lead, Winnie, and her mother, Charity. Charity reminded me of Sally Field’s character from Soap Dish: self-focused, small-minded, and up in everyone’s business. It is clear Charity loves her daughter, but my goodness, I was suffocating under Charity’s constant need to control every move Winnie made. As for Winnie, she is immature and frustrating. I wanted to flick her in the forehead and tell her to stop being a baby. You want people to treat you like an adult?! Behave like an adult. And my final straw, the sex. I am not a voyeur. I do not want to know about anyone’s sex life but my own. This includes married couples in Christian books. To be fair, Lessman warns readers that this book is a “sweet inspirational read with a higher level of romantic passion.” I appreciated the warning, but I truly didn’t think it meant sex. I thought it meant more passion between couples beyond hand holding and shy first kisses. The level of intimacy is another soap-opera reminder. The reader does not see any final moments, but we definitely get everything leading up to it. It felt gross. Like I was in a married couple’s bedroom seeing things that should have been private. I hated this. So I stopped reading.

A Whim and a Prayer is a historical romance that I did not personally enjoy, but has high praise on Goodreads and other review sites. Clearly, this novel has a real audience that is loving this book, and that is a really good thing. I hope this book does exceptionally well for Lessman.

I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on September 7, 2026, in order to review. I am under no obligation to leave a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing story of God’s love for His children! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Author Julie Lessman’s fourth book in the Cousins O’Connor series is amazing! I completely enjoyed the first three World War II romance books involving the older cousins, so I was looking forward to Winnie’s story. And it certainly does not disappoint!

Winnie is a strong-willed young woman who does operate on a “whim” a bit too often. Her early childhood was filled with deep hurts after being abandoned at an orphanage, but the time there also included a treasured friendship with Beck, an older orphan who protected and comforted her. Fortunately, at age five, she was adopted into the large and loving O’Connor family, and a little later, Beck was adopted by a couple living on the same street, so their friendship continued.

I especially liked Beck because of his compassion and unwavering faith, and the strength of his friendship with Winnie, which meant so much to both of them. But the emotional wounds of Winnie’s past kept her locked in a terrible mindset, feeling she was unloveable. But with Beck’s protective instincts and unfailing love, combined with her family’s commitment and deep religious beliefs, there is hope for her healing.

There are difficult situations to overcome throughout the book. Then a plot twist I didn’t expect drives the story toward the emotional ending…which is satisfying both spiritually and romantically….with the author’s trademark “passion with a purpose.” I highly recommend this book about recognizing God’s love for each of us and learning to see ourselves “through God’s eyes” instead of our own.

Favorite quote: “…the love aspect of the ring convinced me that real love—like God has for each of us, His agape love—always defers to the other, only wanting to bless them.”

[Stephanie - Books Less Travelled · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the opening scene I knew Winnie was going to be an interesting character, but I also realized that I was going to love Beck. The more I read, the more certain I was of of both assumptions. I haven't read the other books in the series though, so I'm not sure if this one differs or not in the overall storyline. I enjoyed seeing their faith grow and develop, and loved that their friendship was so strong from the start. The sheer number of characters and names to keep up with early on in the book took some getting used to, but I assume maybe that wouldn't be so daunting when reading the series in proper order. I really enjoyed seeing Winnie's personal journey, she really did have a rough start and I'm so glad she got her chance at a happy life after all.

This is a long book, and for me it was pretty slow to start. There were things I enjoyed from the beginning, but the overall pace seemed to drag on for a while, something that I personally struggle with, especially in longer books. Still, the second half of the book more than makes up for it, and I appreciate the author's effort to build it all up for that wonderful ending, and all the surprises along the way, that were all the more special as a result!

This book is steamier than I often read, but the author uses these moments to share about difficult topics and hard conversations that need to be bad and normalize, and wouldn't really hold the same meaning or impact in other situations. As such, I completely understand and appreciate her effort to keep things God-honoring while not shying away from these important discussions that add to the overall message and depth in this one! She handles several heavy and difficult topics in this story with grace and tact. This isn't an easy read, but it is one that will stay with you for a long while. And will hopefully be a blessing you, as well!

*I was given an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The O'Connor Clan is the best big family. There are so many people that you could hide in a closet and not really be missed. That's not true. You would be missed, and looked for thoroughly.
This book focuses on Mitch and Charity Dennehy and their adoptive daughter Winnie. Don't fret all of the O'Connor clan make an appearance.
At 19 and going into college, Winnie is a handful. She doesn't mean to be, she was teased at a small age for many different reasons, yet excelled on the stage.
What I love about Julie Lessman's books, and I believe I've read them all, is that she creates a troubled character and shows them the way to Jesus.
I can identify with parts of Winnie's story, because I'm adopted, and you go through who do I look like, will I ever be good enough? My adoptive mom got upset each time I got pregnant. Found through counseling that she was jealous that I could and she couldn't. Adoption is beautiful, but it can be a sticky widget of fish if some of those things we know about ourselves aren't dealt with, and we can use a little nudging.

While this is book four of The Cousin O'Connor Cousins series it can be read as a stand-alone, but it's much more fun reading the previous three.

I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Julie Graves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitch and Charity's adopted daughter Winnie is more like Charity than Charity's own children. Bent on having her own way Winnie constantly butts heads with Charity. While Winnie is grateful for all that her parents have done for her, she feels constricted by her mother's rules.

Winnie's best friend Beckett has always had Winnie's back from the time Winnie was dropped off at the orphanage. Winnie has always felt the sting of abandonment. Her one constant in life is Beckett. Winnie will do anything in order to preserve her and Beckett's friendship. Even chasing other men in order to avoid the strong attraction between her and Beckett after a steamy kiss in their performance of a play. Winnie is bent on living her life "spontaneously," but her friends see her living it on a whim. Can Winnie's family show her the love that passes all understanding and finally reach a heart that has been hurt?

Author Julie Lessman always knows how to make her characters have such wonderful spiritual "ah ha" moments. Winnie is no exception. From not wanting anything to do with a God who she feels rejected her, Winnie learns that He has been with her every step of her life. I love Beckett! He is patient, kind and loving to Winnie even in her zaniest moments. The O'Connor family has expanded so much that it is hard to keep track of all of them, but we do get a peek at some. And let's not forget what Julie Lessman is known for...those steamy kisses! They are not lacking in this book! A Whim and a Prayer keeps the reader turning the pages and praying for the perfect ending that we know is always the outcome of the author's characters. As always, I highly recommend you read this book!

[Dianne Sidebottom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winnie and Beckett's story, continuing on the O'Connor family saga with grandchildren of Marcy and Patrick, children of Charity and Mitch, cousins /nieces/nephew to aunts and uncles that have had their story written.
Family gatherings of meals and games (traditions) nothing like I know or experienced (yes, I'm envious of this fiction family.) Plus, the spiritual aspect that Julie writes about but not for the setting of 1946 but for 2026. Do we see ourselves in God's eyes of ourselves or critically judge ourselves, that God is wasting his time with love and grace for us/me?
(I think of rereading Gabe and Alex's story another orphanage experience.)

Not sure where the next material will come from, but Faith's girls might be something I'd read, Teddy and Will?

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed another visit to Boston and the O'Connor family. This book centers on Winnie Dennehy, adopted daughter of Mitch and Charity. Her best friend from the age of four is Beckett Campbell, six years older and also an orphan who was adopted. Beck has loved Winnie for years but has had to be content with being her best friend since she is afraid to let anyone, even Beck, go beyond friendship. She's afraid something will go wrong and she'll lose Beck as a friend. Winnie also keeps God at a distance, not trusting him. Winnie is rather a brat and her headstrong ways lead to a traumatic experience that leads to great changes. But, it might be too late for happiness with Beck. The faith lessons Winnie learns are valuable for us all.

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lessman has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I adore Clan O'Connor. I so appreciate the spiritual truths and hope woven within the pages. May we experience His lavish love for us as Winnie did.

Recommend to readers who enjoy inspirational romance.

I borrowed a copy from KU. I have expressed my honest view.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another one for the record book

Julie has a way of writing that keeps you on the edge of your seat. You never know for sure if the hero and heroine are going to end up together until the very end. She tackled some tough subjects in this book and as is her style she did it in a tender and loving way. I will never tire of her books and can’t wait to see what is next.

[Kamryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Lessman has done it again!!!! I absolutely LOVE all of her books and this one is no different! I have never read a series where faith is woven into real life experiences and showing us how God often works through what we see as the worst situations!! You will absolutely fall in love with the OConner family as I have and hope that the series never ends!!!

[Sabrina Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Lessman did it again! Each book feels like you’re sitting at the O’Connor table at a big family party laughing with all your favorite family. I can’t wait to see which cousin we get to know better next!

[Melanie Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been my favorite book so far of 2026! The journey it took me on following Winnie’s story. I wish I had read the first couple books in the series before reading this one just to see how everything flowed together. This book will make you laugh cry and just open your mouth in shock.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this entertaining book but I think I enjoyed the other ones in the series better. Maybe I was just moody this week.

[Fran · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this series, but I didn't enjoy this book. It was lacking story with historical background. It seemed to be mostly angst between Winnie (with her issues) and Beck & Charity. It needed more storyline outside of this. The overall theme of finding your worth and love in Christ is good though.