What do you think?
Rate this book
Taste of Romance #3
A Dash of Daring
God doesn’t always call us to do what’s easy.
Amy Harris is the after-school care coordinator and long-term sub at the same inner city high school she graduated from. She’s always avoided the complications of dating outside her multi-ethnic heritage. Until Zach got hired.
Zach Wilson took a teaching job in a D.C. public school as part of a student-loan forgiveness program. Nearing the end of his commitment, a possibility arises to move to a magnet school in the suburbs. But will leaving the city end things with Amy before they really have a chance to start?
As Zach and Amy work together on the school’s annual holiday program, they must each decide if they’ll dare to follow where God calls.
Book three is the Taste of Romance series, A Dash of Daring is a contemporary Christian romance designed to entertain, inspire, and encourage thought about Christian living in today's world.
Amy Harris is the after-school care coordinator and long-term sub at the same inner city high school she graduated from. She’s always avoided the complications of dating outside her multi-ethnic heritage. Until Zach got hired.
Zach Wilson took a teaching job in a D.C. public school as part of a student-loan forgiveness program. Nearing the end of his commitment, a possibility arises to move to a magnet school in the suburbs. But will leaving the city end things with Amy before they really have a chance to start?
As Zach and Amy work together on the school’s annual holiday program, they must each decide if they’ll dare to follow where God calls.
Book three is the Taste of Romance series, A Dash of Daring is a contemporary Christian romance designed to entertain, inspire, and encourage thought about Christian living in today's world.
- GenresChristian Fiction
228 pages, ebook
Published November 10, 2015
63 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
69 books253 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 21, 2016
"A Dash of Daring" written by Elizabeth Maddrey is the
third book in the Taste of Romance Series.
Zach Wilson is teaching at an inner- city high school
located in Washington, DC school. He took this position as
part of a forgiveness program.
Amy Harris a long term substitute teacher at the same high
school. And Zach is attracted to her.
Zach and Amy start working together planning the annual
holiday program. The undeniable chemistry between them
comes to a head.
But Amy has a problem…inter-racial dating. Amy is
multi-ethic. She has a black dad and a white Hispanic mom.
Zach is a white which Amy has a hard time accepting.
Will Amy be able to look beyond the inter-racial issue?
Will Zach stay teaching in the same school once his program
is finished? Will Zach go to the private school that he had
interviewed? Where will Zach move to as his roommate’s
get married?
The author address many social issue such as: inter-racial
dating & marriage, inter-city school versus private school,
dealing with parents, decisions making involving Zach’s
roommates wedding plans and marriage being hard work.
Put all those issues aside by asking for God’s help. God
will help overcome these fears with faith, trust, friendship
and love.
Thank you to book fun.org for this eBook. My opinion is my own.
third book in the Taste of Romance Series.
Zach Wilson is teaching at an inner- city high school
located in Washington, DC school. He took this position as
part of a forgiveness program.
Amy Harris a long term substitute teacher at the same high
school. And Zach is attracted to her.
Zach and Amy start working together planning the annual
holiday program. The undeniable chemistry between them
comes to a head.
But Amy has a problem…inter-racial dating. Amy is
multi-ethic. She has a black dad and a white Hispanic mom.
Zach is a white which Amy has a hard time accepting.
Will Amy be able to look beyond the inter-racial issue?
Will Zach stay teaching in the same school once his program
is finished? Will Zach go to the private school that he had
interviewed? Where will Zach move to as his roommate’s
get married?
The author address many social issue such as: inter-racial
dating & marriage, inter-city school versus private school,
dealing with parents, decisions making involving Zach’s
roommates wedding plans and marriage being hard work.
Put all those issues aside by asking for God’s help. God
will help overcome these fears with faith, trust, friendship
and love.
Thank you to book fun.org for this eBook. My opinion is my own.
November 13, 2015
"A Dash of Daring" written by Elizabeth Maddrey is the third book in the Taste of Romance Series. This book is a fun, flirty romance novel that will get you in the mood for the Holiday spirit. Zach Wilson is a respectful man who loves the Lord. With wanting to honor his debt in paying off student loans, he takes a job in Washington as part of a forgiveness program, which leads him to meeting Amy Harris a long term substitute teacher. The two work together on the annual school program and eventually develop feelings for one another. Do they fall in love? Maybe. The question is, is there something more?
More than romance, this book addresses interracial dating, which was something Amy avoided for so long. I also enjoyed how sensitive Elizabeth was in addressing this topic and other issues throughout the book the characters faced. This was a light hearted read, but also had moments of depth. The careful balance was great! I enjoyed this book this book and would recommend this book if you're looking for a romance novel, but also about a book that goes deeper into issues that reach the heart.
More than romance, this book addresses interracial dating, which was something Amy avoided for so long. I also enjoyed how sensitive Elizabeth was in addressing this topic and other issues throughout the book the characters faced. This was a light hearted read, but also had moments of depth. The careful balance was great! I enjoyed this book this book and would recommend this book if you're looking for a romance novel, but also about a book that goes deeper into issues that reach the heart.
December 31, 2018
Liked It
I hate how you have to do 20 words. I don't need 20 words. It's a four star book. There.
I hate how you have to do 20 words. I don't need 20 words. It's a four star book. There.
November 27, 2018
A great read and I found it interesting to follow young professionals in their various fields of expertise. The two main characters in this story, Zach and Amy, are both in the teaching/school field and I like how the author not only draws us into their personal life, their work life and also into the lives of some of their students. Even though each book is a stand-alone story, we also get an opportunity to know what is taking place in the lives of Zach's friends, Ben and Jackson.
This is a clean, interesting story which would be enjoyed by any age group from teens and up.
This is a clean, interesting story which would be enjoyed by any age group from teens and up.
May 15, 2019
Zach has been interested in asking Amy out for months. With both of them teaching at the same school will it make things awkward? When he finally does and she agrees, we start down the road of jumping to conclusions on certain topics, amongst testing the dating waters. Zach needs to determine what he wants from the job market. Love seeing the comradery between Zach, Ben and Jackson as they navigate their relationships. Easy to relate to characters and an easy to get into story make this another great addition to this series.
January 15, 2022
"A Dash of Daring" was a delightful read. The easy-to-read page-turning plot was filled with spirituality, romance, and some levity. Furthermore, the character ensemble was interesting and believable. Kudos to the author for creating such a diverse group of characters. The author's use of vivid details helped to create an upbeat tone. I enjoyed reading the narrative.
April 25, 2018
You don't have to read the earlier books in this series, but it does help to know who the characters are. Maddrey does a good job in this one on the topic of prejudice of all kinds. Having visited Washington DC a couple years ago, I could picture the setting well, and enjoyed that.
November 16, 2015
A Dash Of Daring by Elizabeth Maddrey is book three in the series A Taste Of Romance. It is a contemporary novel and can be read as a stand-alone. I however loved meeting up with familiar characters. It felt more like catching up with old friends than reading a novel. Elizabeth Maddrey writes about 'real' characters doing 'real' life with all its ups and downs. The Touch Of Romance series would make a fabulous trio of films.
Amy works in a poor school in downtown Washington. She is passionate about her job and her students. The only thing that worries her is Zach, the Maths teacher at the school. Zach likes Amy, but Zach is white and Amy is mixed race. Amy has seen the problems of marrying outside your culture, but she really likes Zach. Elizabeth Maddrey explores the mixed race theme within the novel. Only Amy seems bothered about it. She confesses to her Mum, who replies "My skin doesn't determine my worth. Jesus does." Amy feels she now has permission to be just who Jesus created her to be.
The course of love never runs smoothly. Elizabeth Maddrey shows this within the novel. If something is good, it is worth fighting for. Relationships don't just happen, they need to be worked at.
Likewise, faith and a relationship with God does not just happen. It requires a decision to trust God in all circumstances, and to trust His plans and to look for His guidance. Zach looks to God, especially when a Maths teaching job comes up in a well funded school in the suburbs. Should Zach stay where he is? Or should he move? What is God's plan for his life? Elizabeth Maddrey shows 'real' people facing 'real' dilemmas.
In A Dash Of Daring Elizabeth Maddrey demonstrates how teaching is not just a job, it is a vocation. Good teachers do not just happen. Good teachers have a passion for their job and their pupils. They go the extra mile.
The theme of teenage pregnancy is explored within the novel. It shows how, with support, teens can cope and abortion does not have to be an option. Every life is sacred.
The friendship and camaraderie of Zach and his two housemates continues in the novel. It is wonderful to see the interaction of the three friends. They offer each other advice and support.
Elizabeth Maddrey shows the importance of the weekly gathering of believers. Both Zach and Amy go to church.
The theme of family runs throughout the novel. There is the blood family, the family of friends, the school family and the church family. Families come in all different forms, and whilst they are all unique, it is important to belong to a family that offers love and support.
I absolutely love Elizabeth Maddrey's novels, and cannot get enough of them. Faith is at the centre. It is not a 'pushy' faith, but a 'doing daily life with Jesus' type of faith. Situations and characters are presented that the reader can recognise. I always feel bereft at the end of the novels.
Be daring and give yourself a treat, and read A Dash Of Daring today.
Amy works in a poor school in downtown Washington. She is passionate about her job and her students. The only thing that worries her is Zach, the Maths teacher at the school. Zach likes Amy, but Zach is white and Amy is mixed race. Amy has seen the problems of marrying outside your culture, but she really likes Zach. Elizabeth Maddrey explores the mixed race theme within the novel. Only Amy seems bothered about it. She confesses to her Mum, who replies "My skin doesn't determine my worth. Jesus does." Amy feels she now has permission to be just who Jesus created her to be.
The course of love never runs smoothly. Elizabeth Maddrey shows this within the novel. If something is good, it is worth fighting for. Relationships don't just happen, they need to be worked at.
Likewise, faith and a relationship with God does not just happen. It requires a decision to trust God in all circumstances, and to trust His plans and to look for His guidance. Zach looks to God, especially when a Maths teaching job comes up in a well funded school in the suburbs. Should Zach stay where he is? Or should he move? What is God's plan for his life? Elizabeth Maddrey shows 'real' people facing 'real' dilemmas.
In A Dash Of Daring Elizabeth Maddrey demonstrates how teaching is not just a job, it is a vocation. Good teachers do not just happen. Good teachers have a passion for their job and their pupils. They go the extra mile.
The theme of teenage pregnancy is explored within the novel. It shows how, with support, teens can cope and abortion does not have to be an option. Every life is sacred.
The friendship and camaraderie of Zach and his two housemates continues in the novel. It is wonderful to see the interaction of the three friends. They offer each other advice and support.
Elizabeth Maddrey shows the importance of the weekly gathering of believers. Both Zach and Amy go to church.
The theme of family runs throughout the novel. There is the blood family, the family of friends, the school family and the church family. Families come in all different forms, and whilst they are all unique, it is important to belong to a family that offers love and support.
I absolutely love Elizabeth Maddrey's novels, and cannot get enough of them. Faith is at the centre. It is not a 'pushy' faith, but a 'doing daily life with Jesus' type of faith. Situations and characters are presented that the reader can recognise. I always feel bereft at the end of the novels.
Be daring and give yourself a treat, and read A Dash Of Daring today.
December 11, 2015
This is the final book in the Taste of Romance series. It was great catching up with the other characters.
Zach Wilson and Amy Harris have been features in the first 2 books and this is their story. They are both teachers in the same school. Zach has been interested in Amy for a while now but she has issues about interracial dating. This book is about trusting God and allowing him to lead you to the life that he is called you to.
I know people might not be patient with Amy insecurities because it was a struggle for me to read some of her concerns. She reminded me of us and how we must sound to God sometimes. Amy wants to have the type of relationship that her parents have but she has decided it could only be with someone of similar race, ethnicity and culture as she is. Even though her mother is white and father is black, she has problems thinking that Zach, who is white, is the guy for her. She made so many excuses and had to apologize so many times to Zach. She reminds us that you can miss out on God’s blessing because it is not the way you imagine it.
I think that it was a good thing that these issues were revealed now instead of later. They were able to bring these concerns to light and deal with them. Interracial dating is still an issue for people today but we have to reminder to be like God and look at the heart instead of outward appearances. Amy’s parents were able to be a great sounding board to her and bring her back to God.
Zach’s relationship with the Ben and Jackson was something I enjoyed in this book. You do not always get to see Christian men discuss their dating relationship with each other in fiction. The guys were discussing their issue with resisting the temptation to be impure before marriage is enlightening. You do not get the see that men are struggling with this as much in books. They are usually portrayed as the one that will do anything to get what they want even at the expense of the person they claim to love. The love and respect these men have for these women is amazing.
One of the other things I liked about Zach and Amy’s story is learning that you can make a difference wherever God call you. You do not always have to work in a poor area. As Terri said,” Making that same difference for kids who need it just as much. Don’t mistake economic scarcity for some superior need, Amy. The struggles those kids in the suburbs have are different, absolutely, but they’re just as real and just as painful to them. And they need teachers who care every bit as much as the kids here do.” Page 67
One of the funniest lines to me (Zach to Amy):
“Do you separate your issues into volumes, or are they just numbered in order of appearance?” Page 70
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. I also posted this review on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Goodreads, Deepershopper, etc.)”
Zach Wilson and Amy Harris have been features in the first 2 books and this is their story. They are both teachers in the same school. Zach has been interested in Amy for a while now but she has issues about interracial dating. This book is about trusting God and allowing him to lead you to the life that he is called you to.
I know people might not be patient with Amy insecurities because it was a struggle for me to read some of her concerns. She reminded me of us and how we must sound to God sometimes. Amy wants to have the type of relationship that her parents have but she has decided it could only be with someone of similar race, ethnicity and culture as she is. Even though her mother is white and father is black, she has problems thinking that Zach, who is white, is the guy for her. She made so many excuses and had to apologize so many times to Zach. She reminds us that you can miss out on God’s blessing because it is not the way you imagine it.
I think that it was a good thing that these issues were revealed now instead of later. They were able to bring these concerns to light and deal with them. Interracial dating is still an issue for people today but we have to reminder to be like God and look at the heart instead of outward appearances. Amy’s parents were able to be a great sounding board to her and bring her back to God.
Zach’s relationship with the Ben and Jackson was something I enjoyed in this book. You do not always get to see Christian men discuss their dating relationship with each other in fiction. The guys were discussing their issue with resisting the temptation to be impure before marriage is enlightening. You do not get the see that men are struggling with this as much in books. They are usually portrayed as the one that will do anything to get what they want even at the expense of the person they claim to love. The love and respect these men have for these women is amazing.
One of the other things I liked about Zach and Amy’s story is learning that you can make a difference wherever God call you. You do not always have to work in a poor area. As Terri said,” Making that same difference for kids who need it just as much. Don’t mistake economic scarcity for some superior need, Amy. The struggles those kids in the suburbs have are different, absolutely, but they’re just as real and just as painful to them. And they need teachers who care every bit as much as the kids here do.” Page 67
One of the funniest lines to me (Zach to Amy):
“Do you separate your issues into volumes, or are they just numbered in order of appearance?” Page 70
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. I also posted this review on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Goodreads, Deepershopper, etc.)”
November 23, 2015
A Dash of Daring by Elizabeth Maddrey is a fun story with a message. Amy Harris never thought she would date outside her multiethnic heritage. But she is attracted to a teacher at the school where she works as the after school program coordinator. Zach Wilson committed to teaching at the downtown D.C. school for three years to reduce his student loan obligation. He has been interested in dating Amy but has been getting confusing signals from her. Amy has volunteered to coordinate the school’s upcoming holiday program and has enlisted Zach to help.
Zach is nearing the end of his three year obligation and wants to apply for his dream job of teaching at a magnet school. When the opportunity comes, Zach begins questioning his calling in life. Not his calling to teach, but the location of the call. Is he where God wants him to be? Is his life reflecting Christ to the kids he teaches? As he prays about direction, he talks to his roommate Jackson but doesn’t mention the job opening to Amy.
Amy loves working with the kids at school in the neighborhood where she grew up. She believes she can show support for the kids if she lives and works in her neighborhood. She jumps to conclusions on several occasions which results in conflicts with Zach. At one point, she admits that if she has low expectations, she won’t be disappointed. As she struggles with this, the question arises - can she really trust God and never be disappointed?
I thought the struggles with knowing God’s direction for your life and trusting God in all things were very applicable. Most Christians struggle with these issues at some point in their lives. Most have a sincere desire to serve where God wants them but figuring out where is sometimes challenging. I would recommend this book to adults who like a quickly-read romantic story with some thought-provoking topics added in. This is book 3 in the Taste of Romance series, and I am sorry to see the conclusion. I enjoyed the entire series.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
Zach is nearing the end of his three year obligation and wants to apply for his dream job of teaching at a magnet school. When the opportunity comes, Zach begins questioning his calling in life. Not his calling to teach, but the location of the call. Is he where God wants him to be? Is his life reflecting Christ to the kids he teaches? As he prays about direction, he talks to his roommate Jackson but doesn’t mention the job opening to Amy.
Amy loves working with the kids at school in the neighborhood where she grew up. She believes she can show support for the kids if she lives and works in her neighborhood. She jumps to conclusions on several occasions which results in conflicts with Zach. At one point, she admits that if she has low expectations, she won’t be disappointed. As she struggles with this, the question arises - can she really trust God and never be disappointed?
I thought the struggles with knowing God’s direction for your life and trusting God in all things were very applicable. Most Christians struggle with these issues at some point in their lives. Most have a sincere desire to serve where God wants them but figuring out where is sometimes challenging. I would recommend this book to adults who like a quickly-read romantic story with some thought-provoking topics added in. This is book 3 in the Taste of Romance series, and I am sorry to see the conclusion. I enjoyed the entire series.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
November 16, 2015
A Dash of Daring by Elizabeth Maddrey is the third book in the Taste of Romance series. This is a Christian romance series. Zach Wilson teaches math at an inner-city high school in Washington, D.C. He has been interested in dating Amy Harris (substitute teacher and after school care coordinator) for some time but she keeps putting him in the friend zone (Amy wishes to avoid dating someone who is not a part of her multi-ethnic heritage). Zach finally asks her out on a real date and Amy hesitantly accepts. This is the first of many dates. Amy, though, will have a long way to go before she is ready for a serious relationship. Amy tends to make snap judgements and jump to conclusions without hearing all the information. Amy and Zach will get to know each other better as they work on the school’s holiday program. When Zach gets an opportunity to have a job at a magnet school will it end their budding relationship (he would like to teach to students who actually enjoy math)? Will Amy be able to get over her issues to have a wonderful future?
A Dash of Daring is a sweet, Christian romance novel. There is some kissing in the book and a just a hint of an engaged couple looking forward to more after they are married. The book does have a pregnancy between two teenagers in it. I liked Zach, but Amy was a harder character to enjoy. She was so quick to assume things and then would storm off (which I find annoying). It was nice reading about such dedicated teachers who enjoy their jobs. We get to catch up on the characters from the past two novels to see how they are doing in their relationships. While A Dash of Daring can be read alone, it does help to have read the first two books in a Taste of Romance series. I give A Dash of Daring 4 out of 5 stars (which means I liked it, but did not love it).
I received a complimentary copy of A Dash of Daring from The Book Club Network Inc. and Elizabeth Maddrey in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
A Dash of Daring is a sweet, Christian romance novel. There is some kissing in the book and a just a hint of an engaged couple looking forward to more after they are married. The book does have a pregnancy between two teenagers in it. I liked Zach, but Amy was a harder character to enjoy. She was so quick to assume things and then would storm off (which I find annoying). It was nice reading about such dedicated teachers who enjoy their jobs. We get to catch up on the characters from the past two novels to see how they are doing in their relationships. While A Dash of Daring can be read alone, it does help to have read the first two books in a Taste of Romance series. I give A Dash of Daring 4 out of 5 stars (which means I liked it, but did not love it).
I received a complimentary copy of A Dash of Daring from The Book Club Network Inc. and Elizabeth Maddrey in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
November 17, 2015
Being the third book in the series A Taste of Romance. These stories have been about 25-30 year olds who love God and life. It has been a nice clean read that has some depth to the issues it covers. Interracial dating, teen pregnancy, and the challenge of living a Christian life in the world today. I really enjoy how the author faces these issues and helps resolve them.
Zach Wilson is the last bachelor in the house he shares with his friends. He took a job working at an intercity school in order to help have some of his school debt forgiven. However, he is not sure this is where God wants him. When a lucrative offer from a magnet school comes available Zach wonders if God is calling him there? Finally,he wants to be dating but the girl he believes is "right" has only kept him in the friend zone. Will she be able to see past their differences to the man he really is?
Amy Harris is the after school care coordinator. To help and for extra income, she also is a long term substitute in the school. She has always kept dating to a minimum due to her multi ethnical background. When she finds the one, she wants him to be from her heritage. However, Zach has always been there. He has asked her out before but she has managed to keep him at arms length. Will she be able to open her mind and heart? Or will she continue to ignore her growing attraction?
I loved Zach and his friends in this book. Three young men who support one another through everything. Amy was a little harder to relate with. She tended to get angry and pass judgement quickly. It was nice to see her slowly start to thaw. I would recommend this series to all who are looking for a good, clean read.
I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
Zach Wilson is the last bachelor in the house he shares with his friends. He took a job working at an intercity school in order to help have some of his school debt forgiven. However, he is not sure this is where God wants him. When a lucrative offer from a magnet school comes available Zach wonders if God is calling him there? Finally,he wants to be dating but the girl he believes is "right" has only kept him in the friend zone. Will she be able to see past their differences to the man he really is?
Amy Harris is the after school care coordinator. To help and for extra income, she also is a long term substitute in the school. She has always kept dating to a minimum due to her multi ethnical background. When she finds the one, she wants him to be from her heritage. However, Zach has always been there. He has asked her out before but she has managed to keep him at arms length. Will she be able to open her mind and heart? Or will she continue to ignore her growing attraction?
I loved Zach and his friends in this book. Three young men who support one another through everything. Amy was a little harder to relate with. She tended to get angry and pass judgement quickly. It was nice to see her slowly start to thaw. I would recommend this series to all who are looking for a good, clean read.
I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2015
What a treat to read another book from this very gifted storyteller. Each book in the series gets stronger and more enjoyable. Elizabeth Maddrey has a gift of delivering a great story with characters that enrich us with compassion.
Zach Wilson takes a job in Washington as part of a forgiveness program, to help pay off his student loans. He is a man of honor and his faith is very important to him. He encounters Amy Harris at his work. She is a substitute teacher who loves her job. The annual school program is coming up and she persuades Zach to help her with it.
As they begin to work closely with each other, sparks start to ignite between them. Is romance in the air for these two? Zach certainly seems smitten with Amy, but she has some reservations about becoming involved with Zach.
Zach is trying to understand why Amy is hesitant , but she at times seems to pull away from him.
The author has done an amazing job of tackling an issue that is sensitive to some with grace and wisdom. She centers on the two main characters and delves into a topic with openness and sensitivity. I am always encouraged by her thoughtfulness to readers as she writes with a heart for clear understanding and grace. This is not only a story about a developing relationship, but touches on an issue of judgment . Will Amy be able to overlook their differences and give Zach a chance? Can she look at the inside of a person and see their kindness? Will true love happen for Zach and Amy?
"Love doesn't have guarantees. You make a choice that you're going to love and then work, every day, to be true to that choice . Some days it's easy. Other days it's not."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Zach Wilson takes a job in Washington as part of a forgiveness program, to help pay off his student loans. He is a man of honor and his faith is very important to him. He encounters Amy Harris at his work. She is a substitute teacher who loves her job. The annual school program is coming up and she persuades Zach to help her with it.
As they begin to work closely with each other, sparks start to ignite between them. Is romance in the air for these two? Zach certainly seems smitten with Amy, but she has some reservations about becoming involved with Zach.
Zach is trying to understand why Amy is hesitant , but she at times seems to pull away from him.
The author has done an amazing job of tackling an issue that is sensitive to some with grace and wisdom. She centers on the two main characters and delves into a topic with openness and sensitivity. I am always encouraged by her thoughtfulness to readers as she writes with a heart for clear understanding and grace. This is not only a story about a developing relationship, but touches on an issue of judgment . Will Amy be able to overlook their differences and give Zach a chance? Can she look at the inside of a person and see their kindness? Will true love happen for Zach and Amy?
"Love doesn't have guarantees. You make a choice that you're going to love and then work, every day, to be true to that choice . Some days it's easy. Other days it's not."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
March 29, 2016
Elizabeth Maddrey’s romance novel, A Dash of Daring, addresses the subjects of interracial relationships and pursing the career that God wants for your life. This book offers us a look into a personal struggle that occurs in today’s society. Well written, the story develops the main characters to where the reader can feel and understand their struggles. I like the fact that the two main characters had known each other as colleagues and had become friends for a couple years before any romantic inclination. This made it more real life for me. Amy Harris and Zach Wilson work for an inner city high school in Washington, D. C. Amy has a multi ethnic heritage, was raised in this area, and works in the after school program helping students in various ways. She considers this her mission in life, exactly where God wants her. Zach, on the other hand, is Caucasian and working her on a teaching forgiveness program which will excuse his student loans and drives in from the suburbs each day to teach math to students that have little interest in math because they face life issues such as survival, pregnancy, and gangs. He struggles with knowing what God wants for his mission in life – continue to teach in the inner city school or in a magnet school in the suburbs. Zach and Amy are attracted to each other, but she has always vowed to only date men with the same color of skin as she. Will the Holiday program that both will be working on bring them together? Can Amy overcome her bias to develop more than a friendship? What decision will Zach make concerning his calling in life? A sweet book of love, struggles, and decisions that I recommend to the reader. I received a copy from the author and publisher of The Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2017
As with the other books in this series, the author delves deeply into issues of trust, forgiveness, freedom to be who you are, what true love is & what marriage really means. There are so many wonderful quotes, like: “My skin doesn’t determine my worth. Jesus does.” And: “what you really think & feel about things – will always influence the words you say.” Not only is this book connected within the series, but it also connects with one of her other books Operation Mistletoe. It’s fun to discover each of her characters’ stories! And one more quote: “…you’ll definitely be disappointed in life. But if all you’re looking at is the downside, the disappointments, you’ll miss out on the joy.” Another Great Book in This Series!
November 24, 2015
Amy Harris and Zachary Wilson are both employees in an inner city school in Washington DC. Zach lives a suburbon existence while Amy lives in the area where the students live and go to school. They become unlikely friends and eventually begin dating. Amy initially has a problem with the fact that Zach is white and she is from a mixed ethnicity. Her parents and some of her other relatives have mixed marriages. She doesn't want to go that route for fear of problems along the way. This story draws you in to their situation as well as the everyday lives within the school. Zach is working out a school loan by teaching at this school while Amy loves the students and works there simply for that reason. How do they manage such diversity and conflict? Or do they? Will a romance work for them or will they just celebrate the engagements of Zach's two roommates?
I really enjoyed my time reading this story. I was drawn to it because my daughter and son-in-law both teach. The author seemed to have done her research on the problems and workings of the inner city schools. I also was fascinated with the drama and problems associated with a mixed ethnic relationship. This was a very fun story and I highly recommend it.
I was given this book through Bookfun for my honest review which I have given.
I really enjoyed my time reading this story. I was drawn to it because my daughter and son-in-law both teach. The author seemed to have done her research on the problems and workings of the inner city schools. I also was fascinated with the drama and problems associated with a mixed ethnic relationship. This was a very fun story and I highly recommend it.
I was given this book through Bookfun for my honest review which I have given.
September 4, 2016
Dash of Daring by author Elizabeth Madden is Book Three in her Taste of Romance series. It is a 215 page paperback book with an eye catching cover. There is a smiling young adult couple on the front with fall tress and the Washington Monument in the background.
This Christian contemporary romance novel is the story of Amy Harris and Zach Wilson. Amy is the coordinator for after-school care and long term substitute at her alma mater high school. Zach is teaching at the school as part of the college student loan forgiveness program. They have a connection but also a problem. The author tackles sensitive issues in this book like interracial couples, privileged and poor kids, and prejudices. She touches on family, friends, and faith. How we can lean on God and trust Him to guide and direct us.
I really like Madden's writing style. She provides us with a group of new friends and thought provoking scenarios. Her story is well thought. It is sweet but hits on some major issues. God is at the forefront and Christian values heavily sprinkled throughout the story. This is a different romance than normal and has a wonderful first kiss in it.
I would recommend A Dash of Daring to Christian romance lovers. College age will particularly enjoy it. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by The Book Club Network for my honest review.
This Christian contemporary romance novel is the story of Amy Harris and Zach Wilson. Amy is the coordinator for after-school care and long term substitute at her alma mater high school. Zach is teaching at the school as part of the college student loan forgiveness program. They have a connection but also a problem. The author tackles sensitive issues in this book like interracial couples, privileged and poor kids, and prejudices. She touches on family, friends, and faith. How we can lean on God and trust Him to guide and direct us.
I really like Madden's writing style. She provides us with a group of new friends and thought provoking scenarios. Her story is well thought. It is sweet but hits on some major issues. God is at the forefront and Christian values heavily sprinkled throughout the story. This is a different romance than normal and has a wonderful first kiss in it.
I would recommend A Dash of Daring to Christian romance lovers. College age will particularly enjoy it. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by The Book Club Network for my honest review.
November 7, 2015
The third book in The Taste of Romance Series by Elizabeth Maddrey. This book focuses on the last of three single bachelor friends and roommates, Zach Wilson. All three male characters in this series are such fun, wonderful examples of young men who love the Lord. They all treat women with respect, and that makes for a great book that is encouraging to read.
Zach is teaching in an inner city DC public high school as a part of a federal loan forgiveness program. Amy Harris, is a coworker of Zach’s. Amy grew up in the same neighborhood they work in. She even graduated from the same high school they both teach at. The story tackles challenging social issues of the day to include interracial dating/marriage.
Ms. Maddrey writes a wonderful contemporary story. I enjoyed all the characters that she took the time to meticulously develop. I love the age group of friends in this series ranging from 25 to 30. Her characters exemplify real young people who love the Lord, love and care for others, and are simply tangible people. I highly recommend the entire series and very much enjoyed this third book and final book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
Zach is teaching in an inner city DC public high school as a part of a federal loan forgiveness program. Amy Harris, is a coworker of Zach’s. Amy grew up in the same neighborhood they work in. She even graduated from the same high school they both teach at. The story tackles challenging social issues of the day to include interracial dating/marriage.
Ms. Maddrey writes a wonderful contemporary story. I enjoyed all the characters that she took the time to meticulously develop. I love the age group of friends in this series ranging from 25 to 30. Her characters exemplify real young people who love the Lord, love and care for others, and are simply tangible people. I highly recommend the entire series and very much enjoyed this third book and final book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
December 13, 2015
A Dash of Daring
Amy Harris and Zach Wilson is working at the same school but comes from a lot different backgrounds. He is teaching algebra and she does after school programs. He has a hard time getting his students interested and hard for them to learn algebra. He mainly took the job at that school because it was all he could find and they had a program that would help pay off his student loans. Amy is doing a Christmas program and asked Zach to help. He also wants to date her but she has stay away from dating for a while. Zach is not really happy teaching there. But will things change, you will need to see what happens. You will not be disappointed. This is a 3rd in a series but can be read as a stand alone book. I have not read the first two books and still enjoyed this one a lot. I do plan on really the first two books though since this one was so good. I really loved Amy parents, they were so special. This is only the second book I have read by Elizabeth but I sure do plan on reading more. I received this book by the author for a honest review.
Amy Harris and Zach Wilson is working at the same school but comes from a lot different backgrounds. He is teaching algebra and she does after school programs. He has a hard time getting his students interested and hard for them to learn algebra. He mainly took the job at that school because it was all he could find and they had a program that would help pay off his student loans. Amy is doing a Christmas program and asked Zach to help. He also wants to date her but she has stay away from dating for a while. Zach is not really happy teaching there. But will things change, you will need to see what happens. You will not be disappointed. This is a 3rd in a series but can be read as a stand alone book. I have not read the first two books and still enjoyed this one a lot. I do plan on really the first two books though since this one was so good. I really loved Amy parents, they were so special. This is only the second book I have read by Elizabeth but I sure do plan on reading more. I received this book by the author for a honest review.
February 2, 2016
Amy works at an inner city school where she was raised and now lives. She's admired Zachary for quite some time, but has pushed off his advances to be more than friends. She just can't see their relationship working since they are different races. But Zachary doesn't see the problem and pursues Amy. When she finally gives in, she learns to not jump to conclusions without all of the facts and also about trust and faith in God.
The cover seemed very YA to me, so I wasn't surprised to have the story and style of writing to confirm this. The emotions and reactions were on target with high school or college age kids. The author wove her faith into the story and used the conflicts and drama to bring these elements into play. I wasn't aware when I chose this book that it was the last book in the series. But the book could definitely work as a stand-alone. Overall it is a sweet story that would be great for a reader who enjoys YA and Christian fiction.
I received this book free of charge from BookClub Network in exchange for my honest review.
The cover seemed very YA to me, so I wasn't surprised to have the story and style of writing to confirm this. The emotions and reactions were on target with high school or college age kids. The author wove her faith into the story and used the conflicts and drama to bring these elements into play. I wasn't aware when I chose this book that it was the last book in the series. But the book could definitely work as a stand-alone. Overall it is a sweet story that would be great for a reader who enjoys YA and Christian fiction.
I received this book free of charge from BookClub Network in exchange for my honest review.
January 13, 2016
I confess – I love reading this series since they take place in and near Washington, DC and talk about all the local places!
This is the third in the Taste of Romance series and it follows Zach Wilson, the 3rd roommate, and Amy Harris. Zach and Amy both work at an inner-city high school – she because she lives near there and grew up in that neighborhood. She’s also multi-ethnic with a white Hispanic mom and a black dad. Zack, a white boy, lives in the suburbs and took the job as a means to get his student loans forgiven. He is falling for Amy for who she is while Amy is having a hard time seeing past Zach’s white skin.
I really enjoyed reading this as the different couples (Zach and Amy from this book, Ben and Rebecca, and Jackson and Paige from the previous two books) deal with real life challenges – how to deal with parents, and wedding plans, and backgrounds, and sexual purity. Great book and I recommend! I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest opinion.
This is the third in the Taste of Romance series and it follows Zach Wilson, the 3rd roommate, and Amy Harris. Zach and Amy both work at an inner-city high school – she because she lives near there and grew up in that neighborhood. She’s also multi-ethnic with a white Hispanic mom and a black dad. Zack, a white boy, lives in the suburbs and took the job as a means to get his student loans forgiven. He is falling for Amy for who she is while Amy is having a hard time seeing past Zach’s white skin.
I really enjoyed reading this as the different couples (Zach and Amy from this book, Ben and Rebecca, and Jackson and Paige from the previous two books) deal with real life challenges – how to deal with parents, and wedding plans, and backgrounds, and sexual purity. Great book and I recommend! I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest opinion.
June 20, 2016
A Taste of Daring Romance
I'll restate what I've written elsewhere: Maddrey's novels allow the reader to feel as if they've joined a group of long-term friends as they laugh and love and go through life. You get to spend time with them all - a fun and friendly bunch who share their hurts, sorrows, joys, and triumphs with one another. In each of her series, we're introduces to a great cast of characters whose lives intersect in the Metro DC area. And in each book, we get to follow along as two or more of those characters experience romance, love, heartbreak, and commitment. There's usually a gentle theme in each of the author's books that sets her writing style apart from most of the others in this often formulaic and cliche romance genre. Maddrey's novels are thoughtfully romantic, but still retain a whimsical freshness to them. Highly recommended for those who enjoy clean, inspirational stories that don't ignore real world problems.
I'll restate what I've written elsewhere: Maddrey's novels allow the reader to feel as if they've joined a group of long-term friends as they laugh and love and go through life. You get to spend time with them all - a fun and friendly bunch who share their hurts, sorrows, joys, and triumphs with one another. In each of her series, we're introduces to a great cast of characters whose lives intersect in the Metro DC area. And in each book, we get to follow along as two or more of those characters experience romance, love, heartbreak, and commitment. There's usually a gentle theme in each of the author's books that sets her writing style apart from most of the others in this often formulaic and cliche romance genre. Maddrey's novels are thoughtfully romantic, but still retain a whimsical freshness to them. Highly recommended for those who enjoy clean, inspirational stories that don't ignore real world problems.
July 12, 2016
A Dash of Daring by Elizabeth Maddrey introduces us to Zach and Amy, 2 young teachers that work in an inner-city DC school. Zach is there because he's receiving help paying off his student loans. Amy is there because she loves the students and sees the difference she can make in their lives. Are Amy and Zach a good match or are their differences too much to overcome? This is Book 3 in the Taste of Romance series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. I did enjoy the book and plan to read the first 2 in the series. I give it 3 stars. I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
November 10, 2015
The book fits in with rest of the series, this time talking about school nutrition and starting school gardens.
This is a socially relevant book about giving back to the community, volunteering and making their inner- city school a better place to learn.
We see God as part of all their decisions .
The book flows well and there is good character development for the new as well as familiar characters.
I feel this book could be read as a standalone but it is better read as part of a series.
I look forward to the next book by this author.
This is a socially relevant book about giving back to the community, volunteering and making their inner- city school a better place to learn.
We see God as part of all their decisions .
The book flows well and there is good character development for the new as well as familiar characters.
I feel this book could be read as a standalone but it is better read as part of a series.
I look forward to the next book by this author.
March 16, 2016
I've been waiting forever for Zach and Amy's romance since the first book in the taste of romance series. I've thoroughly enjoyed each and every book and this one was no exception. There was romance and a first kiss to melt your heart. There was conflict and internal issues to make you exam your own issues. I also liked how the book dealt with the subject of your calling. It's a dilemma every Christian meditates upon a time or two. A Dash of Daring is written in classic Elizabeth Maddrey fashion: a heart warming read that makes you think.
November 16, 2015
A Dash of Daring, the story of Zachary and Amy, is a contemporary Christian romance and book 3 of the Taste of Romance series. This book talks about school nutrition and starting school gardens. It is about giving back to the community, volunteering and making the inner-city schools a better place to learn. The couples from books 1 and 2 are very much part of the story. It can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading it in order as a series. I was given a copy for an honest opinion. I recommend this author and her books.
December 21, 2015
A delightful book. I loved this book so much. I loved the inspirational thread through out the book. I also loved the way the author tied in characters from her other books and series into this one. It helped me to feel like the characters are real. This book is well written. Even though it is the third book in a series it can be read as a stand alone, however, you will get the full effect of the book by reading in order. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
January 29, 2016
A Dash of Daring picked up where A Pinch of Promise leaves off. I love this series and how I keep getting to follow all of the characters for three books. I was sorry to see this one end knowing it was the last. Definitely a series I will be recommending to others.
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network and the author in exchange for my honest review. I placed my review on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, and Deeper Shopping, if available.
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network and the author in exchange for my honest review. I placed my review on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, and Deeper Shopping, if available.
February 21, 2016
A Dash of Daring was sweet and serious, it was entertaining and edifying. It lets us know that we must trust God to direct our paths in life; trust that He has the best plan for us even when we may not see it. Also I think this story teaches us not to let thing from our culture or heritage whole us back from the great things God had in store for us.
I received a courtesy copy of this book from The Book Club Network for my honest review.
I received a courtesy copy of this book from The Book Club Network for my honest review.
August 14, 2016
This is the last book in the Taste of Romance series. Amy and Zack work at the same inner city high school and care deeply about the students. As they get to know each other and then find they have feelings for the other, we are taken into their lives and the developing romance. This book deals with some social issues and I really liked how the author had faith an integral part in this story. A nice ending to the series! I was gifted a copy for review by the Book Club Network.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews