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The Carpenter's Daughter
Who am I? Sarah Sharpe has grown up as a carpenter's daughter, knowing only the rough and work-heavy world of her father's blue-collar profession. Abandoned by her mother as a baby, she's lived 21 years content to drive nails at her dad's side. Following her father into the world of construction was a natural path, and she took it without a second thought, but a harsh comment about her "butch" appearance sends her on a search for identity. Enter handsome and easy-going Jesse Chapman, the roofer she meets on her first foray into volunteer work for Homes For Hope. In every way, the quirky man is her opposite-confident, a people kind of guy, and most importantly, happy. His likable qualities continue to draw her in-and for some reason he keeps coming back to her. But they can't be more than friends; he's made that crystal clear. Except for a handful of times... and the confusion is driving her crazy. Sarah's quest for self-definition becomes more tangled than she ever imagined, and she discovers that the journey will take her deeper than clothes and makeup. Filling the void in her heart becomes an obsession she cannot escape. How far is she willing to go to discover who she really is?
349 pages, ebook
Published April 15, 2016
199 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
41 books402 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 20, 2017
Oh. My. Goodness.
This book is amazing. Anyone who has ever struggled with identity, on whether or not their pretty, loved, valued...this book is for you! It tugs at the innermost part of your being and doesn't let go until the final page. I loved reading it even though there were parts that gripped me with concern for Sarah Sharpe. This book is a must read!
This book is amazing. Anyone who has ever struggled with identity, on whether or not their pretty, loved, valued...this book is for you! It tugs at the innermost part of your being and doesn't let go until the final page. I loved reading it even though there were parts that gripped me with concern for Sarah Sharpe. This book is a must read!
April 10, 2016
The Carpenter’s Daughter by Jennifer Rodewald is heartachingly beautiful. I say that because my heart ached nearly from word one all the way to the last punctuation mark. And because even in the heartache, sometimes because of the heartache, it was beautiful.
In The Carpenter’s Daughter, Jennifer Rodewald has crafted a tender and poignant story of love. Not just the love between man and woman but also the love that Jesus has for each of us. The first person perspective, shifting between three main characters, adds depth of both insight and emotion and breathes vivid life into these names on a page. Every woman who has ever felt like she wasn’t pretty enough… or smart enough … or creative enough… or just ENOUGH needs needs NEEDS to read The Carpenter’s Daughter. Because in Sarah, we find a kindred spirit. In Jesse, we find a hero. And in Jesus, we find ourselves. Fans of Katie Ganshert or Varina Denman will find another favorite in Jennifer Rodewald! And as Sarah Monzon said… even if you aren’t fans of either of those, you’ll still love this book!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
In The Carpenter’s Daughter, Jennifer Rodewald has crafted a tender and poignant story of love. Not just the love between man and woman but also the love that Jesus has for each of us. The first person perspective, shifting between three main characters, adds depth of both insight and emotion and breathes vivid life into these names on a page. Every woman who has ever felt like she wasn’t pretty enough… or smart enough … or creative enough… or just ENOUGH needs needs NEEDS to read The Carpenter’s Daughter. Because in Sarah, we find a kindred spirit. In Jesse, we find a hero. And in Jesus, we find ourselves. Fans of Katie Ganshert or Varina Denman will find another favorite in Jennifer Rodewald! And as Sarah Monzon said… even if you aren’t fans of either of those, you’ll still love this book!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
July 7, 2017
One word can change a life.
Sarah Sharpe has grown up as a carpenter’s daughter, knowing only the rough and work-heavy world of her father’s blue-collar profession. Abandoned by her mother as a baby, she’s lived twenty-one years content to drive nails at her dad’s side. Following her father into the world of construction was a natural path, and she took it without a second thought. But a harsh comment about her “butch” appearance sends her on a search for identity.
Enter handsome and easygoing Jesse Chapman, the roofer she meets on her first foray into volunteer work for Homes For Hope. In every way, the quirky man is her opposite—confident, a people kind of guy, and most importantly, happy. His likable qualities continue to draw her in, and for some reason he keeps coming back to her. But they can’t be more than friends—he’s made that crystal clear. Except for a handful of times…and the confusion is driving her crazy.
Sarah’s quest for self-definition becomes more tangled than she ever imagined, and she discovers that the journey will take her deeper than clothes and makeup. Filling the void in her heart becomes an obsession she cannot escape. How far is she willing to go to discover who she really is?
This book has sat on my Kindle for months and months. I finally decided I needed to read it. I've read one of Jennifer Rodewald's books before, so good I bought the rest, but didn't have time to read them yet. This author can write. She captures the human emotions in such a vivid way that the reader actually hurts for these characters! I could not imagine the pain Sarah suffered, nor the conflicts Jesse had in his heart as he trusted God for Sarah's peace. I loved every minute of this book. Jesus, He loves me!
Sarah Sharpe has grown up as a carpenter’s daughter, knowing only the rough and work-heavy world of her father’s blue-collar profession. Abandoned by her mother as a baby, she’s lived twenty-one years content to drive nails at her dad’s side. Following her father into the world of construction was a natural path, and she took it without a second thought. But a harsh comment about her “butch” appearance sends her on a search for identity.
Enter handsome and easygoing Jesse Chapman, the roofer she meets on her first foray into volunteer work for Homes For Hope. In every way, the quirky man is her opposite—confident, a people kind of guy, and most importantly, happy. His likable qualities continue to draw her in, and for some reason he keeps coming back to her. But they can’t be more than friends—he’s made that crystal clear. Except for a handful of times…and the confusion is driving her crazy.
Sarah’s quest for self-definition becomes more tangled than she ever imagined, and she discovers that the journey will take her deeper than clothes and makeup. Filling the void in her heart becomes an obsession she cannot escape. How far is she willing to go to discover who she really is?
This book has sat on my Kindle for months and months. I finally decided I needed to read it. I've read one of Jennifer Rodewald's books before, so good I bought the rest, but didn't have time to read them yet. This author can write. She captures the human emotions in such a vivid way that the reader actually hurts for these characters! I could not imagine the pain Sarah suffered, nor the conflicts Jesse had in his heart as he trusted God for Sarah's peace. I loved every minute of this book. Jesus, He loves me!
March 31, 2016
Jennifer Rodewald is one of my all time favorite authors. She makes every character she writes seem like a real person with real struggles, and, ultimately, real redemption. That being said, this book is my favorite of hers so far. I don't think there is a single person who won't be able to relate to Sarah Sharpe. The writing is exquisitely beautiful as well. If you are fans of Katie Ganshert or Varina Denman then you will absolutely love this book. (Even if you aren't fans you'll still love it!)
June 11, 2016
One word. One sentence. Words. They can hurt or they can build. In this book, Sarah overhears two women talking about her. One word in one sentence shatters her. Sometimes I think we just don't think about how much weight our words hold. Words hold so much power. I wish more people would use their words to build and love instead of to hurt and destroy.
This is a story of journey and overcoming, I think. Sarah's life is so very limited by her father's design. She doesn't love herself and she doesn't even know who God is. She struggles with self worth. I think most young women will be able to relate to this to some degree.
I really liked Jesse. I think he was a good and honorable man. And SO very patient. Maybe more than was realistic, but I admired him and his devotion and conviction.
This is a very, very Christian book. It is heavy on the religious elements. I felt like the book swirled around in the same place for a long time before moving a small step and then swirling again. The same thoughts and feelings were reiterated many times and I wished that things would move forward a bit faster. But, there is something very satisfying in watching a character evolve and transform and that is exactly what Sarah did. It took someone believing in her and helping her along and that is such a good reminder for us all.
The moral of this story for me? First, use your words in the kindest ways. Second, be ready to help those who need it. Words and actions combined for good can transform lives.
Content: Christian fiction, some heavy kissing and making out, removal of clothing. Drinking and bar scenes.
3/5 stars for me.
I received a copy of this book from SLB tours in exchange for my honest review.
This is a story of journey and overcoming, I think. Sarah's life is so very limited by her father's design. She doesn't love herself and she doesn't even know who God is. She struggles with self worth. I think most young women will be able to relate to this to some degree.
I really liked Jesse. I think he was a good and honorable man. And SO very patient. Maybe more than was realistic, but I admired him and his devotion and conviction.
This is a very, very Christian book. It is heavy on the religious elements. I felt like the book swirled around in the same place for a long time before moving a small step and then swirling again. The same thoughts and feelings were reiterated many times and I wished that things would move forward a bit faster. But, there is something very satisfying in watching a character evolve and transform and that is exactly what Sarah did. It took someone believing in her and helping her along and that is such a good reminder for us all.
The moral of this story for me? First, use your words in the kindest ways. Second, be ready to help those who need it. Words and actions combined for good can transform lives.
Content: Christian fiction, some heavy kissing and making out, removal of clothing. Drinking and bar scenes.
3/5 stars for me.
I received a copy of this book from SLB tours in exchange for my honest review.
February 22, 2017
Sarah Sharpe is a carpenter's daughter, just not "The Carpenter's" daughter, and Jesse Chapman is completely helpless to do anything about it.
Breathtakingly lovely, Sarah has been hidden underneath baggy jeans, oversized shirts, steel-toed boots and an ever-present tool belt; she builds things. That's what she does. That's all she's known. After inadvertently overhearing a degrading remark spoken by a total stranger, Sarah decides that it's not who she wants to be, and cautiously begins the search for life outside the tight cocoon of an overbearing father.
Jesse Chapman is also a builder, a roofer, a man traveling from place to place, under the auspices of a charity home builders ministry, Homes for Hope. Extroverted, confident, and gregarious, Jesse feels an immediate connection with the shy, shattered and introverted Sarah, who is looking for attention in all the wrong places. Searching for a way to introduce Sarah to the lover of her soul, while maintaining a discreet distance, Jesse only manages to confuse her as Sarah attempts to bond with a man who calls himself "friend".
The beauty of "The Carpenter's Daughter" is in its conversations, they are meaningful, mesmerizing, melodic, and at times; even tortuous. It's life. It's love. It's Jesus. What a great story, Jennifer Rodewald has told!
Breathtakingly lovely, Sarah has been hidden underneath baggy jeans, oversized shirts, steel-toed boots and an ever-present tool belt; she builds things. That's what she does. That's all she's known. After inadvertently overhearing a degrading remark spoken by a total stranger, Sarah decides that it's not who she wants to be, and cautiously begins the search for life outside the tight cocoon of an overbearing father.
Jesse Chapman is also a builder, a roofer, a man traveling from place to place, under the auspices of a charity home builders ministry, Homes for Hope. Extroverted, confident, and gregarious, Jesse feels an immediate connection with the shy, shattered and introverted Sarah, who is looking for attention in all the wrong places. Searching for a way to introduce Sarah to the lover of her soul, while maintaining a discreet distance, Jesse only manages to confuse her as Sarah attempts to bond with a man who calls himself "friend".
The beauty of "The Carpenter's Daughter" is in its conversations, they are meaningful, mesmerizing, melodic, and at times; even tortuous. It's life. It's love. It's Jesus. What a great story, Jennifer Rodewald has told!
June 9, 2016
The first scene caught on like rapid fire. Have you ever felt like you aren't good enough? Or that you don't know who you are, that everything you believed about yourself just doesn't fit right? How about like you are nothing? Well, you NEED to read The Carpenter's Daughter by Jennifer Rodewald. And that first scene ignites this journey of self-discovery for Sarah, our main character, and even possibly yourself, as the reader.
The Carpenter's Daughter is heart-rendingly touching, capturing your heart as you ache for Sarah, and feel her emotions of self-awareness to self-doubt, even during her poor choices. Written in 3-person perspectives, it brings to light the internal struggles of each character. Sarah's questions of self-worth, Jesse's desire to protect Sarah, trusting God to do just that, and Dale's demons from the past, all comes to life before our eyes. And from that the truth of God's love so abundantly shown. His choice to love us despite who we are and our mistakes, gifting us with more than we can even acknowledge. A tragic tale it is, but without a doubt one that brings you on a journey to much more than finding your self-worth, but finding that God's there all along.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Singing Librarian Book Tours for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
The Carpenter's Daughter is heart-rendingly touching, capturing your heart as you ache for Sarah, and feel her emotions of self-awareness to self-doubt, even during her poor choices. Written in 3-person perspectives, it brings to light the internal struggles of each character. Sarah's questions of self-worth, Jesse's desire to protect Sarah, trusting God to do just that, and Dale's demons from the past, all comes to life before our eyes. And from that the truth of God's love so abundantly shown. His choice to love us despite who we are and our mistakes, gifting us with more than we can even acknowledge. A tragic tale it is, but without a doubt one that brings you on a journey to much more than finding your self-worth, but finding that God's there all along.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Singing Librarian Book Tours for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
April 22, 2016
Who am I?
The question haunts Sarah, pushing her toward the truth. Fortunately for her, there are people in her life who are able to help her find that truth.
Jesse sees beyond Sarah’s tough exterior and longs to help her heal. With wisdom beyond his years (as Godly wisdom is), he gently leads her as she searches.
Having read one of Jennifer Rodewald’s books before, I was not prepared for this story. Wow! I enjoyed the other one, but this story was a heart-tugger.
The Carpenter’s Daughter is told in first person, with the point of view shifting between Sarah, Jesse, and Sarah’s dad. I am not a huge fan of first person narrative, but I quickly lost myself in the story.
For those who prefer extremely clean reads, I need to mention that there are three instances of profanity. They are used to express frustration and are said by non-Christian characters. I personally prefer not to read the words themselves, so I wanted to note this in case it would bother you. While this isn’t my preference, I still really enjoyed the story.
The Carpenter’s Daughter is a wonderfully told story of truth and the freedom it brings. I would definitely recommend it, especially if you have ever wondered (or currently wonder), “Who am I?”
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
The question haunts Sarah, pushing her toward the truth. Fortunately for her, there are people in her life who are able to help her find that truth.
Jesse sees beyond Sarah’s tough exterior and longs to help her heal. With wisdom beyond his years (as Godly wisdom is), he gently leads her as she searches.
Having read one of Jennifer Rodewald’s books before, I was not prepared for this story. Wow! I enjoyed the other one, but this story was a heart-tugger.
The Carpenter’s Daughter is told in first person, with the point of view shifting between Sarah, Jesse, and Sarah’s dad. I am not a huge fan of first person narrative, but I quickly lost myself in the story.
For those who prefer extremely clean reads, I need to mention that there are three instances of profanity. They are used to express frustration and are said by non-Christian characters. I personally prefer not to read the words themselves, so I wanted to note this in case it would bother you. While this isn’t my preference, I still really enjoyed the story.
The Carpenter’s Daughter is a wonderfully told story of truth and the freedom it brings. I would definitely recommend it, especially if you have ever wondered (or currently wonder), “Who am I?”
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
June 4, 2016
This is a beautiful story about faith, love, hope, redemption, forgiveness, and trust. (I am sure many other messages could be found it this book.)
Sarah is a young lady who is a construction worker. She works with her father and uncle, it is the life she knows and was raised to. A rude comment about her being a "butch" girl begin a growing process. She begins to wonder what she has been missing and desires to look more like a woman. Her journey unlocks her potential and opens her heart to Jesse and his desire for her to know the Savior.
Jesse is a patient teacher. He wants to have a relationship with Sarah, but his faith is important to him and he wants a partner he can share his love of the Gospel with. The book has many frustrating moments for both Sarah and Jesse. The message of love is a powerful force in this book.
This is a Christian Fiction romance.
Sarah is a young lady who is a construction worker. She works with her father and uncle, it is the life she knows and was raised to. A rude comment about her being a "butch" girl begin a growing process. She begins to wonder what she has been missing and desires to look more like a woman. Her journey unlocks her potential and opens her heart to Jesse and his desire for her to know the Savior.
Jesse is a patient teacher. He wants to have a relationship with Sarah, but his faith is important to him and he wants a partner he can share his love of the Gospel with. The book has many frustrating moments for both Sarah and Jesse. The message of love is a powerful force in this book.
This is a Christian Fiction romance.
May 10, 2021
I loved the writing, the story, the grit, but I don't expect to see curse words in Christian fiction, so that affected my rating.
The author did an amazing job of getting inside the heads of 3 very different characters, and portraying them so well.
The author did an amazing job of getting inside the heads of 3 very different characters, and portraying them so well.
January 24, 2018
I have to admit that I really wanted to love this story more than I did! I really did enjoy the romance portions, and thought Jesse and Sarah had pretty amazing chemistry. I felt each emotional punch as Sarah struggled to find a relationship with God and Jesse struggled to do the right thing with this woman he was intensely drawn to. Sarah's journey was especially poignant and watching her navigate these new feelings felt real. Even in her relationship with her father, I could understand her feelings.
But her dad's feelings? Not so much. I really didn't like his portions of the story, unfortunately. His attitude drove me crazy, and even though he does get redemption at the end, I could never muster any happiness about it. It just didn't feel real to me. SO many times I grew frustrated with his inability to make sense. He'd feel this way and then he'd feel that way, all in the space of a few paragraphs. He just irritated me enough that it kind of spoiled a lot of the rest of the story for me? :(
So! I, personally, would have liked the story way more if the dad's point of view had been left out. I was totally in this one for the romance and mainly began skipping paragraphs and chapters to get to those bits. But Jesse is awfully swoony. :) And the romance is super sweet!
But her dad's feelings? Not so much. I really didn't like his portions of the story, unfortunately. His attitude drove me crazy, and even though he does get redemption at the end, I could never muster any happiness about it. It just didn't feel real to me. SO many times I grew frustrated with his inability to make sense. He'd feel this way and then he'd feel that way, all in the space of a few paragraphs. He just irritated me enough that it kind of spoiled a lot of the rest of the story for me? :(
So! I, personally, would have liked the story way more if the dad's point of view had been left out. I was totally in this one for the romance and mainly began skipping paragraphs and chapters to get to those bits. But Jesse is awfully swoony. :) And the romance is super sweet!
May 14, 2020
This book has been on my wish list for a looooonnnnggggg time! So many GR friends have given The Carpenter's Daughter high praise, declaring it a must read and I finally listened to them! Whooooheeeee, but this is one powerfully emotional love story with a stirring inspirational thread that left me breathless and teary and so very, very blessed.
He's a charming faith-fueled people-person with a heart for service and she's an awkward introvert low on self-esteem and so very unsure of herself. She's also pretty contemptuous of religion. But Jesse is drawn to Sarah, even though he knows romance with an unbeliever isn't right. So they start off as friends -- and Sarah makes him work for even that! She's so prickly and uncertain -- my heart just ached for her.
The thing I absolutely adore about Jesse is that he understands he has to love Sarah enough to let God love her first. That definitely confuses Sarah and sometimes she mistakes his reserve for rejection which causes conflict and angst and, honestly, my heart hurt for much of their story. Still feels kinda achy and I might have shed a tear or two at the end (and in the middle.)
"...if you define yourself with the truth of God's love, you will always have an anchor. Because his love will never change."
He's a charming faith-fueled people-person with a heart for service and she's an awkward introvert low on self-esteem and so very unsure of herself. She's also pretty contemptuous of religion. But Jesse is drawn to Sarah, even though he knows romance with an unbeliever isn't right. So they start off as friends -- and Sarah makes him work for even that! She's so prickly and uncertain -- my heart just ached for her.
The thing I absolutely adore about Jesse is that he understands he has to love Sarah enough to let God love her first. That definitely confuses Sarah and sometimes she mistakes his reserve for rejection which causes conflict and angst and, honestly, my heart hurt for much of their story. Still feels kinda achy and I might have shed a tear or two at the end (and in the middle.)
"...if you define yourself with the truth of God's love, you will always have an anchor. Because his love will never change."
April 20, 2016
Daughter of the King
I loved this book. I preordered this book as soon as I got the email and that says alot because I rarely buy books. I must love the author or its KU. So I one clicked and the book is great and on my list to reread again and again. I have asked myself who I am or am I really who God has created me to be? Am I living a vision of myself or the vision of how the Creator of the universe sees me? I like that you go thru the struggle with Sarah and you can relate to her experience. I am not in construction but I have been affected by the comments someone has made about me. I have been like Jesse where I want things to go the way I think but later realizing His way is so much better. Great book. Highly recommend this book and others by the author. This is the longest review I've ever posted and I feel like I haven't said enough.
I loved this book. I preordered this book as soon as I got the email and that says alot because I rarely buy books. I must love the author or its KU. So I one clicked and the book is great and on my list to reread again and again. I have asked myself who I am or am I really who God has created me to be? Am I living a vision of myself or the vision of how the Creator of the universe sees me? I like that you go thru the struggle with Sarah and you can relate to her experience. I am not in construction but I have been affected by the comments someone has made about me. I have been like Jesse where I want things to go the way I think but later realizing His way is so much better. Great book. Highly recommend this book and others by the author. This is the longest review I've ever posted and I feel like I haven't said enough.
March 31, 2016
My thoughts:
This is seriously Jennifer Rodewald's best yet. Oh, how I mean that with everything in me!!! I was captivated, moved, and awed! What a heartbreaking, real, and gut-wrenchingly honest story sooo full of hope!!!
More to come when I've had time to process. :)
This is seriously Jennifer Rodewald's best yet. Oh, how I mean that with everything in me!!! I was captivated, moved, and awed! What a heartbreaking, real, and gut-wrenchingly honest story sooo full of hope!!!
More to come when I've had time to process. :)
March 31, 2016
The Carpenter’s Daughter, written by Jennifer Rodewald, is the third book I’ve read by this author and am still amazed at what a wonderful read she creates each time!
The Carpenter’s Daughter is a unique read because each chapter, while written in first person, has individual first person sections for each main character…Sarah, Dale, and Jesse. I’ve never read a book like it before, but it was truly exciting to be within each character’s mind...thoughts. Sarah is on a search to find "herself." In her search, she finds Jesse…a good looking, hard working, caring and all round good guy. Is there any way that Sarah can find herself by falling for Jesse? Meanwhile, Dale (Sarah’s Dad) is far from happy to see Sarah so confused and in search of who she is. Dale has no time for the Christian faith and wants Sarah as far away from Jesse as possible. Can Sarah find herself or will she be forever lost the life her father so carefully crafted for her without Jesus?
One of my favorite lines in the book is, “God, write something wise on my heart, and let it cross my lips.” –Jesse. How often do we just open mouth insert foot because we don’t ask the Lord to help us be wise and let Him use our words for His glory?!
A must read for everyone! You should probably start reading it early on a day when you have nothing else to do because you’ll not want to put it down! I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Carpenter’s Daughter is a unique read because each chapter, while written in first person, has individual first person sections for each main character…Sarah, Dale, and Jesse. I’ve never read a book like it before, but it was truly exciting to be within each character’s mind...thoughts. Sarah is on a search to find "herself." In her search, she finds Jesse…a good looking, hard working, caring and all round good guy. Is there any way that Sarah can find herself by falling for Jesse? Meanwhile, Dale (Sarah’s Dad) is far from happy to see Sarah so confused and in search of who she is. Dale has no time for the Christian faith and wants Sarah as far away from Jesse as possible. Can Sarah find herself or will she be forever lost the life her father so carefully crafted for her without Jesus?
One of my favorite lines in the book is, “God, write something wise on my heart, and let it cross my lips.” –Jesse. How often do we just open mouth insert foot because we don’t ask the Lord to help us be wise and let Him use our words for His glory?!
A must read for everyone! You should probably start reading it early on a day when you have nothing else to do because you’ll not want to put it down! I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 9, 2016
Best book I've read in a long time! Jennifer Rodewald has such a strong and unique author voice, I just wanted to quit writing until I learned her "technique." Whatever she knows, I want to know it. Or maybe it just comes naturally to her! Amazing. I was pulled into the character's heads from the very start. I felt their struggles. Empathized with their pain. As soon as Sarah heard those horrible ladies call her "butch," I was invested in her story. In her life. I really wanted "Sapphira" to understand and know God's love, but I honestly didn't know how she ever would. And of course I wanted her and Jesse to get together. I'm a romance freak, so that was my favorite part of the story. I totally recommend this book. I loved it so much!
February 5, 2018
Very Touching Story
This story by Jennifer Rodewald is a tender story. It is full of heart touching drama as well as, never-ending hope. The author weaves tender moments throughout this story. Sarah struggles with issues of self worth, yet so does Jesse even tho he seems confident. They both learn there is only one place to find worth and one person to fill the void and that's God.
This story hit home with me because I've always struggled to find my worth and purpose. I loved how the author used the imagine of a rundown broken house and the vision of it being restored, making it new. This is to represent what can happen to our life of we give it over to the One who loves us deeply!the
Great book, I Highly recommend You Pick it up!
This story by Jennifer Rodewald is a tender story. It is full of heart touching drama as well as, never-ending hope. The author weaves tender moments throughout this story. Sarah struggles with issues of self worth, yet so does Jesse even tho he seems confident. They both learn there is only one place to find worth and one person to fill the void and that's God.
This story hit home with me because I've always struggled to find my worth and purpose. I loved how the author used the imagine of a rundown broken house and the vision of it being restored, making it new. This is to represent what can happen to our life of we give it over to the One who loves us deeply!the
Great book, I Highly recommend You Pick it up!
April 28, 2017
I loved this author's voice from the first pages, where she expertly created such sympathy for Sarah. Although I think the first half of the novel packed more emotional punch for me than the second half, the characters are so well developed that it ends up being more than enough to keep you reading through to the end, well past your bedtime.
Even though I sometimes longed for Jesse, who is otherwise forthright, to speak more plainly to Sarah about his feelings, their rocky relationship was believable.
The underlying messages are communicated beautifully without being preachy. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian romance.
Even though I sometimes longed for Jesse, who is otherwise forthright, to speak more plainly to Sarah about his feelings, their rocky relationship was believable.
The underlying messages are communicated beautifully without being preachy. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian romance.
June 4, 2016
This is somewhat of a coming-of-age story. It's about becoming self-aware; a spiritual journey. Jesse sticks to his convictions, keeping God first in his life, even if it means not moving forward with the woman he loves. All of the characters are affected by their pasts but whether they have God in their lives determines the outlook they have on the present and the future. This story is about finding yourself, not holding onto the past, and moving onto the future - with God first in your life. The simple message of "Jesus:He loves me."
My favourite quote from the book is: "The truest thing about who you are is that you are loved... Let that define you."
My favourite quote from the book is: "The truest thing about who you are is that you are loved... Let that define you."
June 27, 2016
This has been one of my favorite books of the summer! I absolutely loved Sarah. I loved that she wasn't society's idea of beautiful. I loved that she was physically strong and yet insecure emotionally. There was so much detail and thought put into her story. The only person I loved more than Sarah was Jesse. My heart ached for the misunderstandings that ensued. The redemption part The Carpenter's Daughter happened a little fast for me, but redemption can happen at any point and can be triggered by anything, so it wasn't implausible. This was a great book and it was bittersweet to come to the conclusion. I look forward to future stories from Jennifer Rodewald!
April 17, 2016
Beautiful love story
Patience is a virtue and knowing when to get out of God's way so he can work in a person's life is also a sign of maturity in Christ. Jesse's faith kept his physical desires pure until God could work in Sarah's heart and help mend her broken spirit and self-esteem. Jesse was aware that a relationship unequally yoked could be disastrous.
Patience is a virtue and knowing when to get out of God's way so he can work in a person's life is also a sign of maturity in Christ. Jesse's faith kept his physical desires pure until God could work in Sarah's heart and help mend her broken spirit and self-esteem. Jesse was aware that a relationship unequally yoked could be disastrous.
June 29, 2016
Good
Loved the storyline, however gave it 3 stars because in my opinion I didn't feel some of the language and content was appropriate for Christian fiction.
Loved the storyline, however gave it 3 stars because in my opinion I didn't feel some of the language and content was appropriate for Christian fiction.
July 16, 2023
"He is the King, you know."
No, I didn't know. "King of what?"
"Everything. All of life, everything we know, and don't know. All of it is His."
Overall it's a good story. I had to keep reminding myself that Sarah was only 21 yrs old, raised by a divorced dad, and had no mother figure. I felt for her at the very beginning when she was called an unkind name, especially by grown adults who should know better.
Even though I sympathized with her, I also was a little annoyed by the constant "downing" of her appearance and self-loathing. Jesse was a breath of fresh air. I like how he shared his faith and stood up for it. There was some lack of communication that was unnecessary and could have saved a lot of heartache for both of them.
There were a few times I'd have to reread a section to determine if the character was being sarcastic or real in what they were thinking or saying. It got a little confusing.
Rating: PG-13 -some darker elements regarding drugs, physical relations prior to marriage
Language: come cussing
Recommend: yes
No, I didn't know. "King of what?"
"Everything. All of life, everything we know, and don't know. All of it is His."
Overall it's a good story. I had to keep reminding myself that Sarah was only 21 yrs old, raised by a divorced dad, and had no mother figure. I felt for her at the very beginning when she was called an unkind name, especially by grown adults who should know better.
Even though I sympathized with her, I also was a little annoyed by the constant "downing" of her appearance and self-loathing. Jesse was a breath of fresh air. I like how he shared his faith and stood up for it. There was some lack of communication that was unnecessary and could have saved a lot of heartache for both of them.
There were a few times I'd have to reread a section to determine if the character was being sarcastic or real in what they were thinking or saying. It got a little confusing.
Rating: PG-13 -some darker elements regarding drugs, physical relations prior to marriage
Language: come cussing
Recommend: yes
February 5, 2025
This book made my heart ache in the best way. I thought it would take me a few weeks to read, but I got so engrossed in it that I ended up finishing in 4 days! I felt very connected with the characters. They were real people with real issues, and I so enjoyed traveling with them as they discovered God‘s grace and love for them. This was mostly dual first person POV, but there was an occasional third perspective as well. Jennifer Rodewald has written such a beautiful story with emotion and depth, and it left me wanting more! I read this on Kindle unlimited. This book had no spice, only kissing. It is a Christian novel, but there were a few mild curse words. I personally had no problem with this because I thought it was realistic for the character who spoke them.
March 19, 2017
Loved!
Best book I've read this year so far. And the writing was great too... Really could go on and on with more details, but, to save us all some time.
Is this book worth the cost: Yes!
Is this book worth the time:Yes!
Is this an author to follow: Yes!
Best book I've read this year so far. And the writing was great too... Really could go on and on with more details, but, to save us all some time.
Is this book worth the cost: Yes!
Is this book worth the time:Yes!
Is this an author to follow: Yes!
October 17, 2016
Sarah's world is rocked when she overhears a couple people talking badly about her. Up until this point she has never questioned her life, this moment causes her to question everything about herself. On the quest of discovering who she is she meets Jesse. His energy and passion for life inspire and confuse her. The story is told in revolving first person narrative between 3 people: Sarah, Jesse and Dale (Sarah's dad). Before the narrative changes each time the author marked he section with the person's name which makes it easy to follow. I could relate to some of the feelings that Sarah was going experiencing and I really enjoyed the character of Jesse. The author did a wonderful job of showing that everyone has flaws and struggles with issues even when they don't appear to. Jesse's maturity in Christ was shown through his patience and the fact that he did his best to step aside and let God work in Sarah's life without his desires effecting things. I was drawn into the story right from the first chapter and didn't want to put it down. My only disappointment with the ending was I felt like I didn't get to know if things changed with Sarah's dad.
October 8, 2016
I enjoyed this book but a lot of the story seemed to spin on something that felt unrealistic to me. How hard would it be to say to someone, I really like you but my faith means everything to me and I don't want to get involved with someone who doesn't share that faith because we would just end up hurting each other? It doesn't close the door to introducing them to Christ if they're open to it. Sure there'd be some self interest involved but that self interest is there regardless of whether it's out in the open or not. You say it up front and everyone knows where they stand. Less room for the hurt caused by conflicted signals. It was the lack of openness that made Jesse seem manipulative.
July 1, 2016
I've always struggled with insecurites. I think most people do. When I was a teen, I read the kiddies book You Are Special, by Max Lucado. I loved it. And what that book did for me then, The Carpenter's Daughter did for me now as an adult.
I love Ms. Rodewald's work. She tackles life's hard issues and let God's love shine through.
I highly recommend this book to any person struggling with the question "Who am I"
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review*
I love Ms. Rodewald's work. She tackles life's hard issues and let God's love shine through.
I highly recommend this book to any person struggling with the question "Who am I"
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review*
April 2, 2016
From the instant I opened this book I was captivated by Sarah. I'm sure most women have moments in their life when they feel judged, like they are less than they should be, or that they don't fit somehow. Her struggles to find identity and love were balanced with the patience and honor of Jesse. A fantastic story that I feel fortunate to have read, and one that I keep thinking about long after I turned the last page. It's earned a place at the top of my list for the year.
June 9, 2016
Jennifer Rodewald's writing is deep and it's real and thought provoking and I love it.
There was only one part I could have done without. The cussing. (may not be proper, but it's how we say it in the South) If you are like me on this subject, my suggestion is to skip over the words in this case. This book is too good to pass over because of it.
There was only one part I could have done without. The cussing. (may not be proper, but it's how we say it in the South) If you are like me on this subject, my suggestion is to skip over the words in this case. This book is too good to pass over because of it.
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