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A Place Called Home #1
A Place Called Home
As the dim lights of the train station faded, Christine Bennett wondered if she would ever see home again. With the death of her grandfather, Christine experienced a deep loneliness she'd never felt before.
The words of his will rang in her ears: "In the event of my granddaughter's death, everything will go to Vince Jeffers." Jeffers watched her with an evil look that made her shiver.
Now, afraid of what might happen, she was obeying a note she had received saying she was in danger and must leave town immediately.
After escaping to the community of Baxter, Christine begins to piece together a new life. The love she finds there, along with newfound faith, sustains her as she faces the threat of danger.
The words of his will rang in her ears: "In the event of my granddaughter's death, everything will go to Vince Jeffers." Jeffers watched her with an evil look that made her shiver.
Now, afraid of what might happen, she was obeying a note she had received saying she was in danger and must leave town immediately.
After escaping to the community of Baxter, Christine begins to piece together a new life. The love she finds there, along with newfound faith, sustains her as she faces the threat of danger.
252 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
103 people are currently reading
1433 people want to read
About the author
Lori Wick
101 books1,634 followersFROM THE PUBLISHER:
Lori Wick is known as one of the most versatile Christian fiction writers on the market today. From pioneer fiction to a series set in Victorian England to a contemporary novel, Lori's books (over 5 million in print) continue to delight readers and top the Christian bestselling fiction list. Lori and her husband, Bob, live in Wisconsin with "the three coolest kids in the world."
Lori Wick is known as one of the most versatile Christian fiction writers on the market today. From pioneer fiction to a series set in Victorian England to a contemporary novel, Lori's books (over 5 million in print) continue to delight readers and top the Christian bestselling fiction list. Lori and her husband, Bob, live in Wisconsin with "the three coolest kids in the world."
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 117 reviews
February 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this.
I loved the characters and the story and it had great faith content.
I liked the writing but at times it felt kinda choppy ,but still really enjoyed it 😊
I loved the characters and the story and it had great faith content.
I liked the writing but at times it felt kinda choppy ,but still really enjoyed it 😊
February 18, 2020
This Book is an Amazing!! This book is about a girl named christine who's grandfather just passed away, and she gets a letter from someone telling her she is in danger and she needs to leave. So she hops on a train and meets an amazing family who soon leads her to christ. Christine finds a Husband named Luke. But people are still trying to track her down and kill her. Read this book to find out what happens to Christine.
October 19, 2018
Heart-warming Christian Romance
Let me state upfront that I have read most of Lori Wick’s books and enjoyed them very much. I found this one lurking in my bulging TBR folder and can’t understand how I missed it.
Set in 1887 in Wisconsin, Christine’s beloved grandfather has died. He has brought her up since she was orphaned and is the only family she knows. Leaving home secretly after receiving a warning note about danger, Christine finds herself in a small town; a stranger knowing no-one, and lonelier than she has ever been.
Through circumstances she could have done without, but which turn out to be a blessing in disguise, Christine finds employment and a place to live. She meets her employer’s family and finds acceptance and love with them, but will she be safe from the danger that had threatened her, or will it follow her?
Wick writes as a Christian and her books reflect that, and this one no exception. If reading about Christ and characters praying is objectionable to you, then you will probably not enjoy this book. On the other hand, if you like a good, wholesome story with Christian characters, with some danger and romance then this will fit the bill nicely. Undemanding, but with a reasonable, although predictable (it IS a romance) storyline, natural dialogue, and well-written, this is one of those books I call “comfort reading”, heart-warming.
Let me state upfront that I have read most of Lori Wick’s books and enjoyed them very much. I found this one lurking in my bulging TBR folder and can’t understand how I missed it.
Set in 1887 in Wisconsin, Christine’s beloved grandfather has died. He has brought her up since she was orphaned and is the only family she knows. Leaving home secretly after receiving a warning note about danger, Christine finds herself in a small town; a stranger knowing no-one, and lonelier than she has ever been.
Through circumstances she could have done without, but which turn out to be a blessing in disguise, Christine finds employment and a place to live. She meets her employer’s family and finds acceptance and love with them, but will she be safe from the danger that had threatened her, or will it follow her?
Wick writes as a Christian and her books reflect that, and this one no exception. If reading about Christ and characters praying is objectionable to you, then you will probably not enjoy this book. On the other hand, if you like a good, wholesome story with Christian characters, with some danger and romance then this will fit the bill nicely. Undemanding, but with a reasonable, although predictable (it IS a romance) storyline, natural dialogue, and well-written, this is one of those books I call “comfort reading”, heart-warming.
August 23, 2019
This is one of my favorite Lori wick books😍😍 I absolutely Love Christine's story❤
February 6, 2023
This was a quiet love story that hinted at a little bit of mystery. The story offered no unexpected twists and no intrigue. A bit disappointing.
March 15, 2012
Christian "chick lit". I have had this one on one of my several "to read" lists for some time now. Finally got my hands on a copy.
Things I liked: I liked the main character, Christine Bennett. She is an orphaned 19 year old, on the run from the unscrupulous partner of her late grandfather. She is a spunky, independent sort of person with a kind heart. Leading man, Luke Cameron seemed well thought out and decidedly appealing as did all the Cameron's in this novel. They were all people I would enjoy being around.
Things I did not like: Christine, with all her spunkiness and independence was entirely too weepy for my taste. Seemed like every other paragraph where Christine appears so does the word "tears" in describing her state of mind. Not to say she didn't have good reasons for being unhappy. The references to faith and Christianity were a bit more prevalent in this novel than I have come across in other books in this genre. I guess a "less is more" approach is more my speed when it comes to the subjects of faith and belief in my reading material.
This is a "clean read". There is an element of suspense woven into the story line that keeps you involved with Christine as she comes to faith and love in this near turn of the century tale.
Things I liked: I liked the main character, Christine Bennett. She is an orphaned 19 year old, on the run from the unscrupulous partner of her late grandfather. She is a spunky, independent sort of person with a kind heart. Leading man, Luke Cameron seemed well thought out and decidedly appealing as did all the Cameron's in this novel. They were all people I would enjoy being around.
Things I did not like: Christine, with all her spunkiness and independence was entirely too weepy for my taste. Seemed like every other paragraph where Christine appears so does the word "tears" in describing her state of mind. Not to say she didn't have good reasons for being unhappy. The references to faith and Christianity were a bit more prevalent in this novel than I have come across in other books in this genre. I guess a "less is more" approach is more my speed when it comes to the subjects of faith and belief in my reading material.
This is a "clean read". There is an element of suspense woven into the story line that keeps you involved with Christine as she comes to faith and love in this near turn of the century tale.
May 28, 2022
Copyright 1990. In my opinion, the writing style shows that. 32 years ago this book was written. The faith aspect of it was wonderful and I really appreciated the prayers and scripture used throughout. Set in the late 1880s and mostly in Baxter, Wisconsin. The Cameron family takes in Christine during a time when she had no one to turn to.
It had an old-fashion feel about it which I mostly enjoyed. I did get confused a few times about who exactly would be narrating. The POV would switch without notice. I thought there were a lot of characters to try and keep up with as well. And the biggest thing I noticed was how many times the name "Christine" was written. Christine looked out the window, Christine walked to the door, Christine ran down the road, etc...
I read this book as part of the Spring Christian Fictio-thon that Katie from Paperbacks and Ponytails is hosting on her YouTube channel.
This book is for the prompt: Spring Cleaning - A book that has been on my TBR the longest.
I really have had this book a long time. Years and years...lol.
Rating: PG - a stabbing, gun violence
Language: Clean read
Recommend: yes
It had an old-fashion feel about it which I mostly enjoyed. I did get confused a few times about who exactly would be narrating. The POV would switch without notice. I thought there were a lot of characters to try and keep up with as well. And the biggest thing I noticed was how many times the name "Christine" was written. Christine looked out the window, Christine walked to the door, Christine ran down the road, etc...
I read this book as part of the Spring Christian Fictio-thon that Katie from Paperbacks and Ponytails is hosting on her YouTube channel.
This book is for the prompt: Spring Cleaning - A book that has been on my TBR the longest.
I really have had this book a long time. Years and years...lol.
Rating: PG - a stabbing, gun violence
Language: Clean read
Recommend: yes
August 29, 2016
An interesting blend of romance and suspense. However, wide margins, large print, and short chapters led to a lot of wasted space.
March 31, 2022
Interesting read...the place you call home is based on where your treasures are.
March 14, 2023
3.4 stars rounded down.
Let me start off with the good. I fell in love with the characters, they were all precious. I especially loved the family dynamics. Christine and Silas’ friendship was my favorite. The period writing was excellent and very believable. It felt like a lovely “day in the life” look at a family in a small town during the late 1800s and the cozy feel made me want to spend the night in their lovely ranch house and enjoy a wonderful, home cooked breakfast and Sunday afternoon with this sweet family.
Now for the not so good. For a romance novel, the romance wasn’t very flushed out in my opinion. The two main characters don’t even meet each other until about 1/4th way through the book and spent very little time together. Also while I loved most of the women characters, they spent a lot of time crying over things that honestly felt a lot like an over reaction. I know times were different back then, and most of the book does an excellent job at expressing that, but I have a hard time believing that women in those days weeped over every little thing. Also (Mild SPOILER ALERT!) the inciting incident doesn’t even come to a conclusion until the last two pages of the book. While I LOVED the cozy, day-in-the-life feel of the book, I think the book would have benefited from focusing on the reason why Christine left her home more. Also, while I am a Christian myself, some of the Christian themes felt very forced and not very personal. Considering this, as much as I enjoyed it, I just couldn’t bring myself to round it up to 4 stars.
Overall, the book was very enjoyable and worth the read. I recommend it if cozy, sweet books are your thing. Although I had some issues with it, I will definitely be completing the series.
Let me start off with the good. I fell in love with the characters, they were all precious. I especially loved the family dynamics. Christine and Silas’ friendship was my favorite. The period writing was excellent and very believable. It felt like a lovely “day in the life” look at a family in a small town during the late 1800s and the cozy feel made me want to spend the night in their lovely ranch house and enjoy a wonderful, home cooked breakfast and Sunday afternoon with this sweet family.
Now for the not so good. For a romance novel, the romance wasn’t very flushed out in my opinion. The two main characters don’t even meet each other until about 1/4th way through the book and spent very little time together. Also while I loved most of the women characters, they spent a lot of time crying over things that honestly felt a lot like an over reaction. I know times were different back then, and most of the book does an excellent job at expressing that, but I have a hard time believing that women in those days weeped over every little thing. Also (Mild SPOILER ALERT!) the inciting incident doesn’t even come to a conclusion until the last two pages of the book. While I LOVED the cozy, day-in-the-life feel of the book, I think the book would have benefited from focusing on the reason why Christine left her home more. Also, while I am a Christian myself, some of the Christian themes felt very forced and not very personal. Considering this, as much as I enjoyed it, I just couldn’t bring myself to round it up to 4 stars.
Overall, the book was very enjoyable and worth the read. I recommend it if cozy, sweet books are your thing. Although I had some issues with it, I will definitely be completing the series.
June 9, 2021
While not on the level of /Pretense/, this book is still quite charming and a good addition to my shelf. The writing isn't as good, which makes sense as it was originally published eight years before the masterpiece that is Pretense.
I liked Christine, and her journey towards faith. The way that faith and prayer and scripture reading and church are so entwined in this book is just LOVELY, rarely have I seen Christianity so very *important* to the characters and stories. Also, a large emphasis on Christians not pursuing non-Christians, which I so appreciate, as it's a bit of an overlooked thing in series like Love Comes Softly. While I can't recc this to a younger audience, due to some scenes in the end of the book, I do recc to others, even if romance isn't a favorite genre. The found family is l o v e l y.
My complaints are mostly that I realllly didn't like Luke - he came off as a controlling jerk who went way over the line multiple times. While I did soften towards the end of the book, likes that had him (playfully) threatening to paddle Christine made me cringe...so hard. Luke is a huge pass for me. And the villain is just. A one dimensional CARTOON of a villain who fails to be anything other than a Mustache Twirling and Mwahahaer. He wants money. That's it. If you want a compelling or thoughtfully done villain, look elsewhere. xD Between Luke and Villain, I'm not sure who I'd like to read least. These two almost made it a three star review, but...dang...the rest of the book is good, and Mac and Julie have my entire heart. Cuties.
All in all, super hype to read the next book in the series, and so glad I bought it! :D
I liked Christine, and her journey towards faith. The way that faith and prayer and scripture reading and church are so entwined in this book is just LOVELY, rarely have I seen Christianity so very *important* to the characters and stories. Also, a large emphasis on Christians not pursuing non-Christians, which I so appreciate, as it's a bit of an overlooked thing in series like Love Comes Softly. While I can't recc this to a younger audience, due to some scenes in the end of the book, I do recc to others, even if romance isn't a favorite genre. The found family is l o v e l y.
My complaints are mostly that I realllly didn't like Luke - he came off as a controlling jerk who went way over the line multiple times. While I did soften towards the end of the book, likes that had him (playfully) threatening to paddle Christine made me cringe...so hard. Luke is a huge pass for me. And the villain is just. A one dimensional CARTOON of a villain who fails to be anything other than a Mustache Twirling and Mwahahaer. He wants money. That's it. If you want a compelling or thoughtfully done villain, look elsewhere. xD Between Luke and Villain, I'm not sure who I'd like to read least. These two almost made it a three star review, but...dang...the rest of the book is good, and Mac and Julie have my entire heart. Cuties.
All in all, super hype to read the next book in the series, and so glad I bought it! :D
December 23, 2018
"There's was a love sprung deep from within, willing and able to stand the test of time, come what may, with Christ at the head of their home."
You can never go wrong with an old fashioned romance, and that's exactly what this book is. As a single Christian woman, this book is a breath of fresh air - also one that left me wanting someone like Luke Cameron. You read so many books, and see so many movies/tv shoes now about how characters "fall in love" when really its just their over active hormones working and all they really want to do is sleep together. Call me old fashioned, but a love story like this is way more endearing and entertaining than those. This is wholesome, pure and right. It brings you back to how a marriage should be and what it should be based on - even if it is a fictional story, there is still truth.
Lori does a vey good job bringing you into the story with her characters and gives you just enough detail so you fall in love with each and every one of them. I may not be a Christine Bennett, but I found myself fawning over Luke Cameron (and Mark and Silas and Mac) a time or two. Even tho, like a hallmark movie, some of the dialog was rather cheesy at times, and the bad guy didn't get his comeuppance till the end (literally the last page), it was still a fantastic story that I will gladly take out and read again and again.
You can never go wrong with an old fashioned romance, and that's exactly what this book is. As a single Christian woman, this book is a breath of fresh air - also one that left me wanting someone like Luke Cameron. You read so many books, and see so many movies/tv shoes now about how characters "fall in love" when really its just their over active hormones working and all they really want to do is sleep together. Call me old fashioned, but a love story like this is way more endearing and entertaining than those. This is wholesome, pure and right. It brings you back to how a marriage should be and what it should be based on - even if it is a fictional story, there is still truth.
Lori does a vey good job bringing you into the story with her characters and gives you just enough detail so you fall in love with each and every one of them. I may not be a Christine Bennett, but I found myself fawning over Luke Cameron (and Mark and Silas and Mac) a time or two. Even tho, like a hallmark movie, some of the dialog was rather cheesy at times, and the bad guy didn't get his comeuppance till the end (literally the last page), it was still a fantastic story that I will gladly take out and read again and again.
August 31, 2017
Christine has escaped her home with her grandfather, her only living relative, after his death when Vince Jeffers the alternative heir starts threatening her in order to inherit. She ends up in Baxter Wisconsin where she is taken in by Grandma Em. She meets the entire Cameron family, including the 3 of the 4 Cameron brothers; but it is Luke Cameron who catches her eye and her attention.
This first book in the A Place Called Home series introduces the close knit, faith-filled Cameron family and the small town of Baxter. Lori Wick draws you into her stories so well that you feel you are right there in the middle of the action. I loved the way the relationship between Luke and Christine developed and the role that Grandma Em played indirectly. Both Luke and Christine felt very real as they struggled with their individual weaknesses. With so many books now including TMI regarding the physical aspect of a romantic relationship, Wicks writing was perfect about the wedding night just saying "the two became one." Wick always includes a strong faith element in her books, and this series follow suit. I have already read the second book and have the others in this series. Definitely recommend this to readers who love historical fiction with a strong inclusion of faith.
This first book in the A Place Called Home series introduces the close knit, faith-filled Cameron family and the small town of Baxter. Lori Wick draws you into her stories so well that you feel you are right there in the middle of the action. I loved the way the relationship between Luke and Christine developed and the role that Grandma Em played indirectly. Both Luke and Christine felt very real as they struggled with their individual weaknesses. With so many books now including TMI regarding the physical aspect of a romantic relationship, Wicks writing was perfect about the wedding night just saying "the two became one." Wick always includes a strong faith element in her books, and this series follow suit. I have already read the second book and have the others in this series. Definitely recommend this to readers who love historical fiction with a strong inclusion of faith.
December 17, 2014
DISCLAIMER:
I promise to be brutally honest with my opinion, but it should not be taken as fact. Any reader should read it for themselves, before they decide if this book has any merit or not. Do not judge this book biased solely on my opinion. If you do, you might miss out on a great read. You never know. It could happen. My review may contain spoilers, but I really strive to be spoiler-free. I borrowed this book from my local library. This book was not suggested to me by the author. I have no affiliation with the author or his/her publisher.
Main Character:
Christine is more of a little girl than a woman, when the story first starts off. This gives a great canvas for character development, however; she seems to stay this naive and trusting little girl until the very end. I did like her as a character, but she kept falling for easy traps. I feel like there could have been more action if she ever fought back, but Wick's strength is in romance and witty banter, not action nor adventure. She was a likable enough character, but I wish that she had more substance to her.
3 out of 5 stars
Evil Antagonist:
Well, there are really two strong evil characters in this book. One is living without Christ in one's heart, which I believe is really pushing the issue. The other is Mr. Jeffers, who is a truly despicable excuse of a man. I really like his character, but he didn't really make much sense like who did he owe so much money to? Wick keeps him one-dimension and doesn't delve into his character for some reason, even though she does several point of views from him throughout the book.
3 out of 5 stars
Minor Characters:
The characters in this book are simply delightful. I love Grandma Em and Silas, especially. I cannot wait to read the second book, because it is about Silas. I found the characters to be endearing and easily likable. I liked Julia even more after hearing her story, although the story is kind of masochistic. Wick, at times, stereotypes her characters, which is not always a great read, to each their own, I guess.
4 out of 5 stars
The Plot:
The story is an interesting one filled with excitement. I like the switching point of views. At times, it seems like there are too many POVs and Wick doesn't really delve into the minor characters' POV very well. She leaves many questions unanswered, not to make the reader reflect. I think that she just "forgot" to finish parts of the story. These exclusions take away from the overall story.
3 out of 5 stars
The Setting:
I really can find no fault in Wick's description of the world in which the characters reside. Her world is beautifully crafted and I love the vivid imagery. I cannot say anything more about it.
5 out of 5 stars
The Dialogue:
For the most part, Wick is really good with knowing what real people say, but at times, the dialogue is stilted or strained. It seems that she is trying to force a character to say something out of character and it just ends up being awkward instead of the mysteriousness or dual sided personality that she is going for. Otherwise than that, she is really true to human speech and her characters.
4 out of 5 stars
Engaging Surprises:
I have to say that this story followed a pretty predictable plot line. Now, that being said, I did find a few surprises. I really liked the identical twin aspect to the story. I did not see that one coming. Someone is murdered, which I did not expect in a Lori Wick book. An evil character tries to rape someone and that "rape" seems really out of character for a guy that just wants to see that someone dead. All in all, not very many good surprises.
2 out of 5 stars
Climax:
The high point of this novel is more like a bump in the road and the ending is rushed. Wick seems to gloss over Christine's situation and makes it brief. I feel like there was no point to the story, except to see a love story blossom out of very imagined danger. She could have done so much with this, but she just lets the story fall flat and lifeless.
2 out of 5 stars
Emotional Response:
I laughed at the funny bits and gushed at the romance slightly. Otherwise than that, I didn't feel for the characters. I also thought that Luke was overbearing and sexist at times. He was right though, Christine was a damsel in distress. She didn't even try to defend herself. She was very much a child.
2 out of 5 stars
Ending:
There wasn't much of an ending. Everything was hurried up and glossed over. It was very predictable and it just seemed like Wick just wanted to get it over and done with after seeing how many pages she wrote. I can quote the exact page when the rush starts.
1 out of 5 stars
The Writing:
I really enjoy Lori's style, which is why I have almost read all of her books. I am very disappointed to hear that she stopped writing novels, because I think even a crappy book written by her is worth reading. This book is not one of her best, but it is not her worst either. These novels are definitly the best Christian Chick Lit.
3 out of 5 stars
The Artwork:
Let's face it: the covers are old and dated. If she revamped her books, she could sell more of them to a younger audience. Her books are for adults, but for some reason, they seem more young adult to me.
1 out of 5 stars
Genre:
This book fits the genre of a Christian romance. There is nothing more to the story here, so look away if you are looking for anything more.
5 out of 5 stars
Title:
I think the title is fitting and Wick ties it into the story beautifully. I see nothing lacking in the title.
5 out of 5 stars
Overall, this book gets 3.7 out of 5 stars for me. I really enjoyed it and thought that it was worth reading. I have said about everything there is to say about this book. I am already reading the second book in the series and bought the third book as well.
I promise to be brutally honest with my opinion, but it should not be taken as fact. Any reader should read it for themselves, before they decide if this book has any merit or not. Do not judge this book biased solely on my opinion. If you do, you might miss out on a great read. You never know. It could happen. My review may contain spoilers, but I really strive to be spoiler-free. I borrowed this book from my local library. This book was not suggested to me by the author. I have no affiliation with the author or his/her publisher.
Main Character:
Christine is more of a little girl than a woman, when the story first starts off. This gives a great canvas for character development, however; she seems to stay this naive and trusting little girl until the very end. I did like her as a character, but she kept falling for easy traps. I feel like there could have been more action if she ever fought back, but Wick's strength is in romance and witty banter, not action nor adventure. She was a likable enough character, but I wish that she had more substance to her.
3 out of 5 stars
Evil Antagonist:
Well, there are really two strong evil characters in this book. One is living without Christ in one's heart, which I believe is really pushing the issue. The other is Mr. Jeffers, who is a truly despicable excuse of a man. I really like his character, but he didn't really make much sense like who did he owe so much money to? Wick keeps him one-dimension and doesn't delve into his character for some reason, even though she does several point of views from him throughout the book.
3 out of 5 stars
Minor Characters:
The characters in this book are simply delightful. I love Grandma Em and Silas, especially. I cannot wait to read the second book, because it is about Silas. I found the characters to be endearing and easily likable. I liked Julia even more after hearing her story, although the story is kind of masochistic. Wick, at times, stereotypes her characters, which is not always a great read, to each their own, I guess.
4 out of 5 stars
The Plot:
The story is an interesting one filled with excitement. I like the switching point of views. At times, it seems like there are too many POVs and Wick doesn't really delve into the minor characters' POV very well. She leaves many questions unanswered, not to make the reader reflect. I think that she just "forgot" to finish parts of the story. These exclusions take away from the overall story.
3 out of 5 stars
The Setting:
I really can find no fault in Wick's description of the world in which the characters reside. Her world is beautifully crafted and I love the vivid imagery. I cannot say anything more about it.
5 out of 5 stars
The Dialogue:
For the most part, Wick is really good with knowing what real people say, but at times, the dialogue is stilted or strained. It seems that she is trying to force a character to say something out of character and it just ends up being awkward instead of the mysteriousness or dual sided personality that she is going for. Otherwise than that, she is really true to human speech and her characters.
4 out of 5 stars
Engaging Surprises:
I have to say that this story followed a pretty predictable plot line. Now, that being said, I did find a few surprises. I really liked the identical twin aspect to the story. I did not see that one coming. Someone is murdered, which I did not expect in a Lori Wick book. An evil character tries to rape someone and that "rape" seems really out of character for a guy that just wants to see that someone dead. All in all, not very many good surprises.
2 out of 5 stars
Climax:
The high point of this novel is more like a bump in the road and the ending is rushed. Wick seems to gloss over Christine's situation and makes it brief. I feel like there was no point to the story, except to see a love story blossom out of very imagined danger. She could have done so much with this, but she just lets the story fall flat and lifeless.
2 out of 5 stars
Emotional Response:
I laughed at the funny bits and gushed at the romance slightly. Otherwise than that, I didn't feel for the characters. I also thought that Luke was overbearing and sexist at times. He was right though, Christine was a damsel in distress. She didn't even try to defend herself. She was very much a child.
2 out of 5 stars
Ending:
There wasn't much of an ending. Everything was hurried up and glossed over. It was very predictable and it just seemed like Wick just wanted to get it over and done with after seeing how many pages she wrote. I can quote the exact page when the rush starts.
1 out of 5 stars
The Writing:
I really enjoy Lori's style, which is why I have almost read all of her books. I am very disappointed to hear that she stopped writing novels, because I think even a crappy book written by her is worth reading. This book is not one of her best, but it is not her worst either. These novels are definitly the best Christian Chick Lit.
3 out of 5 stars
The Artwork:
Let's face it: the covers are old and dated. If she revamped her books, she could sell more of them to a younger audience. Her books are for adults, but for some reason, they seem more young adult to me.
1 out of 5 stars
Genre:
This book fits the genre of a Christian romance. There is nothing more to the story here, so look away if you are looking for anything more.
5 out of 5 stars
Title:
I think the title is fitting and Wick ties it into the story beautifully. I see nothing lacking in the title.
5 out of 5 stars
Overall, this book gets 3.7 out of 5 stars for me. I really enjoyed it and thought that it was worth reading. I have said about everything there is to say about this book. I am already reading the second book in the series and bought the third book as well.
May 23, 2018
I first read many of Lori Wick's books as a teen. I remember enjoying the stories and the romance. I thought I'd jump back in time and check them out again (good to read at work, when I don't have a lot of time on break, but want something enjoyable I don't have to think too much about either). They've held up well. The characters are easy to like and it's nice to know that one gets to spend more time with them, being a family-centered series.
The Cameron family has the stability Christine Baxter longs for and being far from home and recently deprived of her few connections (not to mention being in mortal danger), their welcoming attitude softens the blows of her losses and also makes her more receptive to their source of hope, a life centered around God.
The Cameron family has the stability Christine Baxter longs for and being far from home and recently deprived of her few connections (not to mention being in mortal danger), their welcoming attitude softens the blows of her losses and also makes her more receptive to their source of hope, a life centered around God.
June 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, I'd say it was a romance/family saga/ a little mystery thrown in. I love how God works everything out in our lives, even the small details. Christine could have ended up anywhere really, but to get involved in this family, was definitely of God.
I think I liked Grandma Em the most. She was a very Godly woman, with lots of wisdom. There were lots of faith running through this book, which I really appreciate.
My only gripe would be, that I didn't think the story really had a proper conclusion - re the mystery aspect. I hope that things will be resolved in the next book, but I suspect not.
This is the first book by this Author that I have read, I am going to read the next in the series. I own this on kindle.
I think I liked Grandma Em the most. She was a very Godly woman, with lots of wisdom. There were lots of faith running through this book, which I really appreciate.
My only gripe would be, that I didn't think the story really had a proper conclusion - re the mystery aspect. I hope that things will be resolved in the next book, but I suspect not.
This is the first book by this Author that I have read, I am going to read the next in the series. I own this on kindle.
May 27, 2018
Pretty good book. Easy to get caught up in and isn't mentally straining. Great imagery and awesome Christian values throughout. The only reason I give it 4 stars instead of 5 is actually because of the book cover. It shows a blue-eyed fair-skinned and presumably fair-haired (judging from her eyebrow color) woman when the actual lead character of the book is supposed to be olive skinned with dark hair and green eyes. The whole time I was reading I kept visualizing the girl on the cover, so it was annoying to me that the described girl was the complete opposite in appearance. But I would still recommend the book to any female.
September 10, 2017
The story makes one feel as loved as the main character, Christine. The story is about her escape from a man after her inheritance. Although it sounds drastic, Ms. Wick does not make it the main plot in the story. It is a story of Christine finding God, a family and a husband. It is a lite weekend read and written in simple form for YA.
The only issue is it is full of a preacher's sermons that don't necessarily apply to the story. It slowed the pace of the story more than added to it. That being said, I would recommend to any young Christian girl.
The only issue is it is full of a preacher's sermons that don't necessarily apply to the story. It slowed the pace of the story more than added to it. That being said, I would recommend to any young Christian girl.
February 25, 2022
Lori Wick is one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. I first read her books when I was in my teens and so enjoyed her writing style. This series and The Californians are my favorite. I love this story in how a stranger encounters a wonderful family and they immediately take her in and treat her as one of their own after learning of her terrible circumstances and making a point to note that God organized the encounter. I love the family bond within all the Camerons. Even though I've read these several times, I look forward to continue reading!
February 18, 2023
I enjoyed this! Christine learns she has to flee her home, due to a dangerous man. She hops onto a train and ends up in a small community of Baxter. It's here that she starts a new life.
I hated Vince Jeffers. He was so horrible in the way that he tried to take Christine away from Luke.
I loved the love story between Christin and Luke. I had a good time reading and falling in love with both characters.
All in all, a 5 star read. I think this book is definatly worth the read, even though it's short.
I hated Vince Jeffers. He was so horrible in the way that he tried to take Christine away from Luke.
I loved the love story between Christin and Luke. I had a good time reading and falling in love with both characters.
All in all, a 5 star read. I think this book is definatly worth the read, even though it's short.
April 22, 2018
It is a heartwarming tale that my students when I described it to said, "This sounds like a series of unfortunate events that eventually have fortunate events."
I always enjoy a light read, and Lori Wick is an author that has grown a place in my heart. I can tell this is an earlier work of hers because the writing at times is a little clunky and laughable, but the heart is still there in the end.
Give it a try...you may be pleasantly surprised.
I always enjoy a light read, and Lori Wick is an author that has grown a place in my heart. I can tell this is an earlier work of hers because the writing at times is a little clunky and laughable, but the heart is still there in the end.
Give it a try...you may be pleasantly surprised.
October 22, 2019
I love Lori Wick books. I’ve read many of them, but somehow missed this series.
I’m giving this about a 3.5 ⭐️ Mostly because I waited and waited for something big to happen that was building from the beginning. It didn’t happen until the end of the book and it wasn’t as big as I expected. And the tears all the way through. Christine is a strong woman, but is often brought to tears over little things. It was slightly annoying at times. Other than that, I really liked the story.
I’m giving this about a 3.5 ⭐️ Mostly because I waited and waited for something big to happen that was building from the beginning. It didn’t happen until the end of the book and it wasn’t as big as I expected. And the tears all the way through. Christine is a strong woman, but is often brought to tears over little things. It was slightly annoying at times. Other than that, I really liked the story.
February 25, 2023
Very sweet Christian romance with a side of suspense. There is a strong Christian message throughout and the gospel is fully explained.
I appreciated how the author created a main character who doubted her femininity as a result of her height. She felt large and ungainly next to the petite, lovely blond girl who vied for Luke's affection. The ending did seem a bit rushed and I would have enjoyed knowing where Mrs. Hall ended up.
I appreciated how the author created a main character who doubted her femininity as a result of her height. She felt large and ungainly next to the petite, lovely blond girl who vied for Luke's affection. The ending did seem a bit rushed and I would have enjoyed knowing where Mrs. Hall ended up.
June 9, 2020
In my continued journey of discovering Christian fiction, I picked up this book from my mom's bookshelf (it's one of her favorites). It was very, very cheesy, but cute and a quick read nonetheless. My biggest complaint is that the romance developed way too quickly for my taste. But hey, maybe it's just because I love me some character development.
October 18, 2020
20% DNF
All the characters are flat and boring and there is SO MUCH description of wallpapers, curtains, rugs and more it's as if the plot got lost between the pages of an interior design catalog. Seriously I don't want to read about how wonderfully every room in the house is decorated when scenes only take place in a couple of them!
All the characters are flat and boring and there is SO MUCH description of wallpapers, curtains, rugs and more it's as if the plot got lost between the pages of an interior design catalog. Seriously I don't want to read about how wonderfully every room in the house is decorated when scenes only take place in a couple of them!
May 15, 2023
What a sweet story. In Lori Wick's A Place Called Home, the main character is running from home after she is warned someone is trying to murder her. It's a very gentle novel and the main character grows closer to God and finds a new family. I really like the explanation the kids in the story give as to why they want to memorize Bible verses. I want to read other novels written by her now!
October 13, 2019
Great book! Couldn't put this one down.
I couldn't put this book down and can't wait to read the next book in the series! Lori Wick brings these characters to life for you and draws you into the story. You won't regret reading this one!!
I couldn't put this book down and can't wait to read the next book in the series! Lori Wick brings these characters to life for you and draws you into the story. You won't regret reading this one!!
April 13, 2020
So lovely. A full story with great characters. When you need some fluff and romance with a little bit of good drama, you can't go wrong here. I love Christine and Luke and the whole Cameron family. A joy to read.
April 5, 2022
One of Lori Wick's first novels and this became the anchor for a 4 book series. Turn of the century (1900ish) Wisconsin. A young woman is under the care of a loving grandfather, but his will seems to indicate someone else inherits if she dies. So she runs from home in search of a defender.
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