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Beacons of Hope #4
Forever Safe
Will she ever be able to stop running, even when she believes she’s finally safe?
Heiress to a vast fortune, Victoria Cole has everything she wants, including the perfect fiancé. Having left two other men at the altar, Victoria is sure that this time she’s found her true love and will finally live happily ever after. As her wedding draws near, however, Victoria’s life is threatened. To keep her safe, Victoria’s father hires a bodyguard.
Tom Cushman’s number one priority is protecting his clients, which means no personal entanglements. But he’s never guarded someone as beautiful and winsome as Victoria. After a near-kidnapping, the wedding is cancelled, and Tom hides Victoria at Cape Cod’s Race Point Lighthouse until her attacker can be found. Appointed as assistant light keeper with Victoria posing as his wife, Tom believes the isolation of the lighthouse will keep her safe.
As Victoria struggles to live without familiar luxuries, her heart betrays her with growing feelings for her protector. Determined to help Tom stop fleeing from his haunted past, can the runaway bride learn to face her own fears? With the attacker closing in, will both of them ever be able to stop running and find the safety they long for?
Heiress to a vast fortune, Victoria Cole has everything she wants, including the perfect fiancé. Having left two other men at the altar, Victoria is sure that this time she’s found her true love and will finally live happily ever after. As her wedding draws near, however, Victoria’s life is threatened. To keep her safe, Victoria’s father hires a bodyguard.
Tom Cushman’s number one priority is protecting his clients, which means no personal entanglements. But he’s never guarded someone as beautiful and winsome as Victoria. After a near-kidnapping, the wedding is cancelled, and Tom hides Victoria at Cape Cod’s Race Point Lighthouse until her attacker can be found. Appointed as assistant light keeper with Victoria posing as his wife, Tom believes the isolation of the lighthouse will keep her safe.
As Victoria struggles to live without familiar luxuries, her heart betrays her with growing feelings for her protector. Determined to help Tom stop fleeing from his haunted past, can the runaway bride learn to face her own fears? With the attacker closing in, will both of them ever be able to stop running and find the safety they long for?
330 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2016
183 people are currently reading
1527 people want to read
About the author
Jody Hedlund
88 books4,762 followersJody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
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Want to read
February 15, 2017Eeekk! I'd just assumed Beacons of hope would be a trilogy...I'm so delighted to see this!
July 6, 2016
I am so glad that Jody decided to go the untraditional route to publish Forever Safe. Although the first two books in the series are my favorites, this was a worthy conclusion to the Beacons of Hope series. Ever since Victoria appeared in book three, I knew that she had a story of her own! Forever Safe is full of an endearing romance and historical details of life surrounding a lighthouse, as well as some exciting tense moments toward the end.
Stories that feature characters from way different walks of life always intrigue me, and that intrigue certainly holds true with Victoria and Tom. Though kind-hearted, Victoria is a pampered, spoiled young lady from a wealthy family. Tom’s origins are much more humble, and he worked make a profession for himself. From the get-go, their interactions are laced with tension because of these differences, and it is only when they are drawn by necessity from their respective roles that they begin to see that, despite their differences, they both have much to offer.
Once again, some of my favorite details were of daily life as a light keeper and the duties that come with it. There is something charming about life around a lighthouse, yet there is always the feeling that something dangerous could happen at any moment – though much was routine, the idea that the surrounding seas may change in a moment was ever present. The climactic scenes really held my attention, and the emotion and resolve of the characters shone brightly in those moments.
I loved the overall message of this story as well – the idea that there are always going to be things in life to fear, but you can’t let that stop you from making a decision and living. Victoria’s fears are grounded mostly in supposition and worry for tomorrow, whereas Tom lets past events and traumas color his present decisions. Though they were different types of fear, Jody did a lovely job at portraying that the same gumption and faith is required to overcome them – that fear doesn’t always go away, but it can be dealt with through faith and perseverance.
Thought it’s a bit of a bummer to have this series done, I was entirely satisfied with this last book in the Beacons of Hope series. I wholeheartedly recommend for readers looking for a sweet, romantic story.
Stories that feature characters from way different walks of life always intrigue me, and that intrigue certainly holds true with Victoria and Tom. Though kind-hearted, Victoria is a pampered, spoiled young lady from a wealthy family. Tom’s origins are much more humble, and he worked make a profession for himself. From the get-go, their interactions are laced with tension because of these differences, and it is only when they are drawn by necessity from their respective roles that they begin to see that, despite their differences, they both have much to offer.
Once again, some of my favorite details were of daily life as a light keeper and the duties that come with it. There is something charming about life around a lighthouse, yet there is always the feeling that something dangerous could happen at any moment – though much was routine, the idea that the surrounding seas may change in a moment was ever present. The climactic scenes really held my attention, and the emotion and resolve of the characters shone brightly in those moments.
I loved the overall message of this story as well – the idea that there are always going to be things in life to fear, but you can’t let that stop you from making a decision and living. Victoria’s fears are grounded mostly in supposition and worry for tomorrow, whereas Tom lets past events and traumas color his present decisions. Though they were different types of fear, Jody did a lovely job at portraying that the same gumption and faith is required to overcome them – that fear doesn’t always go away, but it can be dealt with through faith and perseverance.
Thought it’s a bit of a bummer to have this series done, I was entirely satisfied with this last book in the Beacons of Hope series. I wholeheartedly recommend for readers looking for a sweet, romantic story.
January 29, 2019
Enjoyable historical romance novel by the talented Jody Hedlund. I love how the wood cross from the first novel continues to be a part of each book in the Beacons of Hope Series.
Tom is a fantastic male lead. He is honorable and brave. The way he could discern facts from the smallest of details was fabulous.
The passionate moments between Tom's parents in front of others made me squirm a bit. Other than that, the story was pure enjoyment.
I look forward to reading the conclusion.
Tom is a fantastic male lead. He is honorable and brave. The way he could discern facts from the smallest of details was fabulous.
The passionate moments between Tom's parents in front of others made me squirm a bit. Other than that, the story was pure enjoyment.
I look forward to reading the conclusion.
February 9, 2017
Once again I was enthralled by the historical setting and vibrant characters in Jody Hedlund's latest lighthouse story! I loved seeing the journey of the inspiring driftwood cross and its accompanying letter come full circle. Victoria is a gently bred socialite, unaccustomed to life's hardships, but there is a deep measure of compassion in her from the love of her parents (the main characters in the series' prequel novella, Out of the Storm). Even though she was somewhat spoiled by wealth, she doesn't allow her attitude to remain so as she is exposed to the struggles Tom's parents deal with in their life at the lighthouse. I appreciated seeing her growth as she serves and tries her hardest to make the best of the situation. Even though Tom has vowed to keep things strictly professional, it's easy to see why he falls for her, despite his efforts to avoid it. Tom's parents bring an element of humor to the book with their "encouragement" aka meddling. Victoria and Tom both experience angst with their rising passions and reflections on life, seeking to support each other but knowing that their time together is temporary. The novel is also suspenseful with the thread of mystery woven in as to who could be after Victoria and why. Finding true safety in God and His grace is a powerful spiritual theme that is well represented in the lives of Victoria and Tom. I highly recommend Forever Safe and the entire Beacons of Hope series! Read them in order if you can, but each story also does well as a stand alone.
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
June 2, 2016
Forever Safe was one of those books that I did not want to see end. These two characters really burrowed themselves into my heart and I did not want to say goodbye to Victoria and Tom at the end of the novel.
Seemingly spoiled at the start of the book, it was an interesting feeling to read about Victoria. She was not mean-spirited, but was simply self-focused and used to having servants who took care of everything. I must admit that I enjoyed watching her learn to value others more than herself and I really liked her interactions with Tom and his family.
Tom was a great character whom I liked right from the start. Both he and Victoria were very complex characters. With Tom struggling over guilt from the past and Victoria battling overwhelming fear of the future, these two had a lot to overcome.
My favorite part of Forever Safe was watching Tom and Victoria develop feelings for each other. This author writes wonderful romantic tension into her stories and Forever Safe was no exception. What a wonderful love story! And with danger lurking from an unknown enemy who was targeting Victoria, there was plenty of tension, both romantic and suspenseful to make for an extremely enjoyable and exciting novel. I loved this story!
As a side note, this is book four of the Beacons of Hope series, however, it can be read without having read the other books in the series. However, there was a driftwood cross that was constructed in the prequel novella to the series and has been passed from character to character in each book. It was fun to see where it traveled and how the characters were connected to each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Seemingly spoiled at the start of the book, it was an interesting feeling to read about Victoria. She was not mean-spirited, but was simply self-focused and used to having servants who took care of everything. I must admit that I enjoyed watching her learn to value others more than herself and I really liked her interactions with Tom and his family.
Tom was a great character whom I liked right from the start. Both he and Victoria were very complex characters. With Tom struggling over guilt from the past and Victoria battling overwhelming fear of the future, these two had a lot to overcome.
My favorite part of Forever Safe was watching Tom and Victoria develop feelings for each other. This author writes wonderful romantic tension into her stories and Forever Safe was no exception. What a wonderful love story! And with danger lurking from an unknown enemy who was targeting Victoria, there was plenty of tension, both romantic and suspenseful to make for an extremely enjoyable and exciting novel. I loved this story!
As a side note, this is book four of the Beacons of Hope series, however, it can be read without having read the other books in the series. However, there was a driftwood cross that was constructed in the prequel novella to the series and has been passed from character to character in each book. It was fun to see where it traveled and how the characters were connected to each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 21, 2020
I have read this book multiple times over the years & it never gets old. I love the plot of this book so much!! I love that a forbidden romance with a bodyguard is combined with a marriage of convenience, you simply can’t beat that! Tom is one of my favorite book heroes & this reread reminded me of why! This book has many swoon worthy moments & there is great development of the main characters & their romance. This series is one of my favorite series of all time & this book is one of my favorites of the 5. Reading them is like a vacation for my mind ☁️💗
February 24, 2023
I guess I am into "comfort reads" by my favorite authors this morning as I continue the Beacons of Hope series. Each book features two different protagonists and so future readers don't have to read the books in chronological order.
If you like: rich girl versus poor guy
He's her new bodyguard and she's supposed to be getting married to a rich man.
Fake marriage
Kidnapping
Lighthouses
True Love conquering all despite class differences.
Then this historical romance will definitely capture your attention. Personally the above list are some of my favorite things but I found myself lukewarm about Victoria and Tom until they ended up hiding out at the lighthouse. Overall, a good read but not one of my favorites.
Goodreads review published 24/02/23
If you like: rich girl versus poor guy
He's her new bodyguard and she's supposed to be getting married to a rich man.
Fake marriage
Kidnapping
Lighthouses
True Love conquering all despite class differences.
Then this historical romance will definitely capture your attention. Personally the above list are some of my favorite things but I found myself lukewarm about Victoria and Tom until they ended up hiding out at the lighthouse. Overall, a good read but not one of my favorites.
Goodreads review published 24/02/23
June 9, 2016
Victoria Cole is the pampered daughter of Henry Cole. She has everything that she could want, including a doting fiance. As her wedding draws closer, her life is threatened. When her normal bodyguard is injured protecting her, her father hires Tom Cushman. Tom's not like her other bodyguards. First of all he's young and handsome. Secondly, her charms don't appear to work on him. After she's nearly kidnapped, the wedding is cancelled. Tom knows the only way to keep her safe and force the kidnapper into the open is to put Victoria in hiding. There's just one problem with that - to do so, he must marry her in name only. With the isolation of the lighthouse that Tom's been appointed as the assistant keeper, Victoria must learn to live without the luxuries she's grown up with. But is she really safe? And even more importantly, is her heart safe from Tom?
I've loved each book in the Beacons of Hope Series. I love how Jody is able to take characters that need to have hope in their lives and turn them into something beautiful.
Let me be honest. I didn't like Victoria when I first met her. I thought that she was spoiled, and a bit of a brat. But as the story went on, I did come to like her.
I loved Tom though. I loved how he struggled to keep Victoria safe from himself. And I ADORED Tom's parents. They were awesome!
One of the things I've loved about this series is that there is a small wooden cross that has passed from person to person. It went from Isabella to Emma to Ryan to Tessa to Victoria and finally to Nathaniel. I love how when it comes to each person, that there is a moment when they need hope. I also love how this series could just keep going. If this is the conclusion, then that's great. If it's not, then I'm looking forward to Nathaniel's story.
I received the Kindle version of the book for free from the author to help promote. I do plan on purchasing the actual paperback at some point. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Historical Fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Julie Klassen
Rating - 4 stars
I've loved each book in the Beacons of Hope Series. I love how Jody is able to take characters that need to have hope in their lives and turn them into something beautiful.
Let me be honest. I didn't like Victoria when I first met her. I thought that she was spoiled, and a bit of a brat. But as the story went on, I did come to like her.
I loved Tom though. I loved how he struggled to keep Victoria safe from himself. And I ADORED Tom's parents. They were awesome!
One of the things I've loved about this series is that there is a small wooden cross that has passed from person to person. It went from Isabella to Emma to Ryan to Tessa to Victoria and finally to Nathaniel. I love how when it comes to each person, that there is a moment when they need hope. I also love how this series could just keep going. If this is the conclusion, then that's great. If it's not, then I'm looking forward to Nathaniel's story.
I received the Kindle version of the book for free from the author to help promote. I do plan on purchasing the actual paperback at some point. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Historical Fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Julie Klassen
Rating - 4 stars
June 24, 2016
So I'll start by saying that I of course loved this book! I have yet to meet a Jody Hedlund novel that was not brilliantly amazing! I was very excited when she announced that even though her publisher wasn't interested in Victoria's story she was going to self publish it anyway! It took me a little while to find the time to read this book once I got my hands on it but when I finally started it I could barely stand to put it down! I was completely swept up into Victoria and Tom's love story from the very start of page one and I loved every second. If you've been around my blog for any amount of time you may know that I'm a sucker for marriage of convenience stories and this one had all the things I love about them. Victoria and Tom didn't get along well at all at the beginning which provided its fair share of amusement but it was also fun to watch their respect for each other grow until eventually it turned into love.
Victoria was a girl raised in the lap of luxury but I really admired how hard she worked when they went to the lighthouse cut off from civilization. She had her diva moments but she quickly accepted her reality and made the best of it. Tom had a bit of a rough exterior but he also had a kind and caring heart and would do whatever necessary to protect any and everyone around him. At first glance they were an unlikely pair but deep down they were exactly what each other needed.
I also loved Tom's parents! They were hysterical and adorable all at the same time and it was awesome!
The mystery of who was trying to sabotage the wedding, while not the main focus of the book, was still intriguing and kept me guessing until the end.
So yeah this book was absolutely wonderful and while it is the fourth in a series it could probably be read alone, though the first three were amazing to do you should probably read them all!
I received this an ebook copy of this book free from the author in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Victoria was a girl raised in the lap of luxury but I really admired how hard she worked when they went to the lighthouse cut off from civilization. She had her diva moments but she quickly accepted her reality and made the best of it. Tom had a bit of a rough exterior but he also had a kind and caring heart and would do whatever necessary to protect any and everyone around him. At first glance they were an unlikely pair but deep down they were exactly what each other needed.
I also loved Tom's parents! They were hysterical and adorable all at the same time and it was awesome!
The mystery of who was trying to sabotage the wedding, while not the main focus of the book, was still intriguing and kept me guessing until the end.
So yeah this book was absolutely wonderful and while it is the fourth in a series it could probably be read alone, though the first three were amazing to do you should probably read them all!
I received this an ebook copy of this book free from the author in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
June 25, 2016
I must say how thrilled I am that Jody Hedlund has given us another installment in the Beacons of Hope series. I must also say that I’m pretty sure this one’s my favorite.
Tom is completely swoonworthy as Victoria’s temporary bodyguard. He seems brooding and reserved at first glance but that’s just because he’s tamping down his flirtatious side in order to survive the assignment. His fun-loving side has been repressed for much longer, thanks to personal family tragedy, but we still see glimpses of it struggling to the surface the longer he’s in Victoria’s presence.
Victoria has phenomenal character growth in Forever Safe! I loved watching her transform from a naive rich-girl runaway bride (third time doesn’t look like it’s going to be the charm either) into a woman who learned to thrive no matter her circumstances. She and Tom both wrestle with real issues – fear of an uncertain future, guilt from a tragic past – and the message of our heart’s safety found in God alone is thankfully not viewed as an “easy out” but a hard-won truth.
And - God bless James. James is Tom’s dad. James loves Tom’s mom Zelma. James loves Zelma ardently. James wants Tom to love Victoria ardently too. And it’s thanks to James’ frequent and less than subtle prodding (“Kiss her like you mean it.”) that Tom’s carefully held-in-check restraint finally dissolves and we are treated to some mighty-fine, go-stick-your-head-in-the-freezer, level 5 kisses. WHEW. I mean… I can’t even… Just WHEW. Intensely passionate but full of respect for Victoria – and for the promises he made to her father. WHEW.
A dash of suspense, a lot of heart, some splashes of humor, and a treasury of wisdom complete the ensemble, and all of these elements together – including the characters and the KISSES (good gracious) – make Forever Safe a truly engaging read from start to finish. Tom, Victoria, James, and Zelma are some of my favorite Jody Hedlund characters to date, and I loved getting to know each one of them.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Tom is completely swoonworthy as Victoria’s temporary bodyguard. He seems brooding and reserved at first glance but that’s just because he’s tamping down his flirtatious side in order to survive the assignment. His fun-loving side has been repressed for much longer, thanks to personal family tragedy, but we still see glimpses of it struggling to the surface the longer he’s in Victoria’s presence.
Victoria has phenomenal character growth in Forever Safe! I loved watching her transform from a naive rich-girl runaway bride (third time doesn’t look like it’s going to be the charm either) into a woman who learned to thrive no matter her circumstances. She and Tom both wrestle with real issues – fear of an uncertain future, guilt from a tragic past – and the message of our heart’s safety found in God alone is thankfully not viewed as an “easy out” but a hard-won truth.
And - God bless James. James is Tom’s dad. James loves Tom’s mom Zelma. James loves Zelma ardently. James wants Tom to love Victoria ardently too. And it’s thanks to James’ frequent and less than subtle prodding (“Kiss her like you mean it.”) that Tom’s carefully held-in-check restraint finally dissolves and we are treated to some mighty-fine, go-stick-your-head-in-the-freezer, level 5 kisses. WHEW. I mean… I can’t even… Just WHEW. Intensely passionate but full of respect for Victoria – and for the promises he made to her father. WHEW.
A dash of suspense, a lot of heart, some splashes of humor, and a treasury of wisdom complete the ensemble, and all of these elements together – including the characters and the KISSES (good gracious) – make Forever Safe a truly engaging read from start to finish. Tom, Victoria, James, and Zelma are some of my favorite Jody Hedlund characters to date, and I loved getting to know each one of them.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 8, 2019
I enjoyed this book more than the previous one. The danger Victoria was in with the addition of a bodyguard kept the plot interesting. I enjoyed how Victoria and Tom were from two different worlds and how Tom were not afraid of stating his thoughts on certain matters.
I enjoyed the romantic tension between Tom and Victoria and Tom’s parents’ passionate relationship. They were a great example of how great work can keep the fire going in your relationship. Liked Tom’ father’s word of if couples kiss they can’t stay mad at each other.
Both Victoria (who came across as spoiled) and Tom (who was sometimes a bit judgmental) grew a lot during this story and had their own struggles to overcome.
I liked how the travels of the cross ended back to where it all started in the prequel and that we could catch up on certain characters.
Another enjoyable historical book rich with details on life as a lighthouse keeper.
I enjoyed the romantic tension between Tom and Victoria and Tom’s parents’ passionate relationship. They were a great example of how great work can keep the fire going in your relationship. Liked Tom’ father’s word of if couples kiss they can’t stay mad at each other.
Both Victoria (who came across as spoiled) and Tom (who was sometimes a bit judgmental) grew a lot during this story and had their own struggles to overcome.
I liked how the travels of the cross ended back to where it all started in the prequel and that we could catch up on certain characters.
Another enjoyable historical book rich with details on life as a lighthouse keeper.
Want to read
February 17, 2016EXCUSE ME
but there is a fourth book????????
AHHHHHHHHH YASSSSSSS
but there is a fourth book????????
AHHHHHHHHH YASSSSSSS
July 22, 2016
So wonderful!! Another fantastic book by Jody Hedlund, I highly recommend!
February 21, 2017
This is one of those books that I wish had kept on going! As with the other Beacons of Hope books, I loved the lighthouse theme and Jody Hedlund brought the beautiful settings to life.
The main characters Tom and Victoria were just so easy to like (Victoria a little less so in the beginning though) and they've become one of my favourite Hedlund novel couples. They had flaws (Victoria was rather spoiled and selfish, and Tom expected people to open up to him though he didn't do the same) but what I liked about them was that when they realized their shortcomings, they decided to not back away but work on them instead. Then there were all the good qualities about them- Victoria was sweet and adapted to each situation without much complaining, and Tom was devoted and very conscious of not breaking any promises. Together, Tom and Victoria were a great couple to read about; there were sparks, they helped each other grow, and they had a romance based on friendship and not just attraction. Plus, Hedlund is very good at writing kissing scenes! ;)
The story was exciting and the constant mystery of who was behind the attacks on Victoria added suspense to the plot. In addition, I like marriage of convenience stories and this certainly fit the bill; however, Mr.Cole and Tom obviously did not think through on the whole one month marriage idea! Lol.
The verdict- I really loved this story!
The main characters Tom and Victoria were just so easy to like (Victoria a little less so in the beginning though) and they've become one of my favourite Hedlund novel couples. They had flaws (Victoria was rather spoiled and selfish, and Tom expected people to open up to him though he didn't do the same) but what I liked about them was that when they realized their shortcomings, they decided to not back away but work on them instead. Then there were all the good qualities about them- Victoria was sweet and adapted to each situation without much complaining, and Tom was devoted and very conscious of not breaking any promises. Together, Tom and Victoria were a great couple to read about; there were sparks, they helped each other grow, and they had a romance based on friendship and not just attraction. Plus, Hedlund is very good at writing kissing scenes! ;)
The story was exciting and the constant mystery of who was behind the attacks on Victoria added suspense to the plot. In addition, I like marriage of convenience stories and this certainly fit the bill; however, Mr.Cole and Tom obviously did not think through on the whole one month marriage idea! Lol.
The verdict- I really loved this story!
May 31, 2016
Would Victoria Cole ever feel safe? Recent threats on her life nearly mortally wounded one beloved bodyguard; can recently hired Thomas Cushman possibly provide the protection that she needs, when her wedding date loams only days away?
Tom Cushman makes it a point to provide protection for older women, not beautiful young socialites like Victoria Cole. What could his friend Arch have possibly been thinking, persuading Tom to serve as a bodyguard for the lovely Victoria Cole? When a second attack on the young lady makes it obvious that Victoria needs a secure location, away from family and friends, Tom decides to escort her back to his home at Race Point Lighthouse on Cape Cod, Massachusetts where he can easily intercept intruders from land or sea. Never could he have imagined that he would also need to vigorously protect his own heart, from a woman whose background and lifestyle will never match his own.
"Forever Safe" by Jody Hedlund is a deeply inspirational story, softly blanketed with passionate romance between two individuals whose fears of the past, present and future nearly strangle the life that God intends for them to enjoy. Safe. Forevermore.
I received a copy of this story from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Tom Cushman makes it a point to provide protection for older women, not beautiful young socialites like Victoria Cole. What could his friend Arch have possibly been thinking, persuading Tom to serve as a bodyguard for the lovely Victoria Cole? When a second attack on the young lady makes it obvious that Victoria needs a secure location, away from family and friends, Tom decides to escort her back to his home at Race Point Lighthouse on Cape Cod, Massachusetts where he can easily intercept intruders from land or sea. Never could he have imagined that he would also need to vigorously protect his own heart, from a woman whose background and lifestyle will never match his own.
"Forever Safe" by Jody Hedlund is a deeply inspirational story, softly blanketed with passionate romance between two individuals whose fears of the past, present and future nearly strangle the life that God intends for them to enjoy. Safe. Forevermore.
I received a copy of this story from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 3, 2016
Another amazing read by Jody Hedlund. The growth of characters, the fears exposed, the example of a loving, Godly marriage, and the strength to move past ones disabilities- emotional and physical. This book is full of inspiration and faith.
The romantic tension and scenes truly jump off the page.I was thrilled with this read, lost sleep, and took it with me running errands- reading every chance I got. It's truly captivating.
The background for this series continues onto another lighthouse. The lessons learned and taught there are vital to the story, and they were truly appreciated and loved by this reader.
In Forever Safe you will find strong well developed characters, a beautiful written story, a well devised plot, and plenty of elements that puts this book in the Inspirational category. An element that is sadly missing from many books put in the Christian fiction genre.
I'm looking forward to adding this book to my paperback collection of Jody Hedlund's wonderful books!
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion which I have given.
"I've come to believe one of the reasons God designed marriage was to help us grow in holiness and character. We get to practice on a daily basis being humble, kind,sacrificial, self-controlled, and so much more." Zelma
The romantic tension and scenes truly jump off the page.I was thrilled with this read, lost sleep, and took it with me running errands- reading every chance I got. It's truly captivating.
The background for this series continues onto another lighthouse. The lessons learned and taught there are vital to the story, and they were truly appreciated and loved by this reader.
In Forever Safe you will find strong well developed characters, a beautiful written story, a well devised plot, and plenty of elements that puts this book in the Inspirational category. An element that is sadly missing from many books put in the Christian fiction genre.
I'm looking forward to adding this book to my paperback collection of Jody Hedlund's wonderful books!
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion which I have given.
"I've come to believe one of the reasons God designed marriage was to help us grow in holiness and character. We get to practice on a daily basis being humble, kind,sacrificial, self-controlled, and so much more." Zelma
February 15, 2018
So far, this has been my favorite book in the Beacons of Hope series, which are so far subtly Christian historical romances set in various lighthouses. The first three novels were set in Michigan in the late 1860s and the early 1870s. In this fourth novel, the setting briefly moves to New York City and then to a remote lighthouse off of the coast of Massachusetts; it is set in the year 1876. Our new female protagonist, Victoria, was briefly introduced during the previous novel, and is forced to go into hiding with her bodyguard, and their humorous albeit suspenseful romance is full of honor in the face of natural temptations. The book also deals with the importance of facing past griefs and the importance of not shouldering blame for things you didn't cause to happen. I truly enjoyed the story and look forward to the next novel in the series.
February 7, 2017
Jody Hedlund has written a stunning story in her fourth book, Forever Safe, in her Beacons of Hope Series. In this lighthouse story, Hedlund brings to life her many wonderful characters. With a dash of suspense and some romance, this historical novel is fantastically written and will draw readers in from page one so they will not want to put it down. Not even when they reach the end. This is one of those stories that I could read over and over and not get tired of it. As always I love that a lighthouse plays a role in the story and in bringing it to life. The lighthouse brings an element to the story that would not be there without it. This story is about overcoming fears and falling in love. If readers enjoyed the other books in this series, enjoy historical romance, and enjoy a lighthouse backdrop, this is another novel in this series to love.
Series: Beacons of Hope
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Northern Lights Press
Publication date: June 1, 2016
Number of pages: 344
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
Other books in the series:
1-Love Unexpected
2-Hearts Made Whole
3-Undaunted Hope
5-Never Forget
A review copy of this book was provided by the author’s launch team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Beacons of Hope
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Northern Lights Press
Publication date: June 1, 2016
Number of pages: 344
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
Other books in the series:
1-Love Unexpected
2-Hearts Made Whole
3-Undaunted Hope
5-Never Forget
A review copy of this book was provided by the author’s launch team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
May 29, 2016
Hedlund delivers another winner in the Beacons of Hope series. While each book in this series can be read as a stand-alone, this last book comes full circle with the story of Victoria Cole, the daughter of two characters we met in the introductory novella of this series. Victoria's life is threatened as her wedding day draws near. Arrangements are made for Tom, her hired bodyguard, to take Victoria into hiding. Victoria is introduced to a much simpler life, one that does not focus on meeting her every need. While spoiled, Victoria shows strength of character and loving acceptance of others as she meets this challenge in her life. She has an endearing quality that won me over.
It seems inevitable that Victoria and Tom's friendship would develop into more. But can Tom and Victoria overcome the challenges that face them? Not only is Victoria's life in danger, they both have past and future fears to conquer. Jody Hedlund delivers a story full of romance and danger, but most of all Hope. The wooden cross and note that Isabelle(Out of the Storm) first shared for one that needed hope had traveled full-circle.
I loved this book! It was a great way to start my summer reading.
It seems inevitable that Victoria and Tom's friendship would develop into more. But can Tom and Victoria overcome the challenges that face them? Not only is Victoria's life in danger, they both have past and future fears to conquer. Jody Hedlund delivers a story full of romance and danger, but most of all Hope. The wooden cross and note that Isabelle(Out of the Storm) first shared for one that needed hope had traveled full-circle.
I loved this book! It was a great way to start my summer reading.
September 3, 2017
This is good, even though this is self-published, the quality is on par with the first 3 Bethany House published books of this series.
Just that the cover is a bit tacky, although this has no bearing at all on my rating.
(4 stars is based on the story, not the cover)
Just that the cover is a bit tacky, although this has no bearing at all on my rating.
(4 stars is based on the story, not the cover)
November 3, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
March 27, 2017
3.5 Stars...
This was another well written book by Hedlund. However, it doesn't mean that the story was that great.
This was a romance between a rich girl and her bodyguard. Victoria and Tom.
Victoria needed protection from someone or persons seeking to harm her so her father hired a body guard. Unfortunately, the threat increased so her handsome bodyguard had a brilliant--or not so brilliant idea: she can come to his family's lighthouse and pose as his wife. The marriage would be in "name only"-- and he thought that this will be a good arrangement.... I mean like really?? A marriage in name only? between two very attractive people, and nothing else? or perhaps a deliberate set up for disaster!
I mean I guess that's the entire point of the story right? for them to discover that they can not resist each other and want the marriage. You know, I read someone's review of 'marriage in-name only' plots and they brought out a good point: this type of storyline often gives the author an excuse to write in all sorts of sexual tension scenes. That becomes the story really, and not much else. For me, it gets wearying and then I'll just begin to skip it hoping that more substance gets introduced in the story.
I definitely raised my brows and rolled my eyes during some scenes because it was SO Hollywood-esque. I wont reveal too much here due to *spoiler* objections but I will say I felt some romance parts were right out of a silly, sap movie that we all watched before and its as if the author watched it, and then wrote it into her novel. Come on, like the part where Tom's father challenges him into giving his bride a "real kiss" around the dinner table.. Oh GOD...Please Spare us..
By then, I resolved to giving this book only three stars, I mean everything I read so far was SO typical. It was almost a replica of something else, and it was getting old fast.
Thankfully, the book got .5 more stars when the mystery of Victoria's attacker picked up and came full circle. The reader (me) took a break from scene after scene of sexual tension...at least temporarily :D
hmm, if you are a Hedlund fan you can read this. I remain a fan of hers, that's why I've read all her books. Recently however, her beacons of hope series has been a hit and miss for me. I've enjoyed one novel out of five in the series. I can't help but wonder if her stories are becoming typical, and the substance is being threatened because she's released a few in quite a short period of time.
This was another well written book by Hedlund. However, it doesn't mean that the story was that great.
This was a romance between a rich girl and her bodyguard. Victoria and Tom.
Victoria needed protection from someone or persons seeking to harm her so her father hired a body guard. Unfortunately, the threat increased so her handsome bodyguard had a brilliant--or not so brilliant idea: she can come to his family's lighthouse and pose as his wife. The marriage would be in "name only"-- and he thought that this will be a good arrangement.... I mean like really?? A marriage in name only? between two very attractive people, and nothing else? or perhaps a deliberate set up for disaster!
I mean I guess that's the entire point of the story right? for them to discover that they can not resist each other and want the marriage. You know, I read someone's review of 'marriage in-name only' plots and they brought out a good point: this type of storyline often gives the author an excuse to write in all sorts of sexual tension scenes. That becomes the story really, and not much else. For me, it gets wearying and then I'll just begin to skip it hoping that more substance gets introduced in the story.
I definitely raised my brows and rolled my eyes during some scenes because it was SO Hollywood-esque. I wont reveal too much here due to *spoiler* objections but I will say I felt some romance parts were right out of a silly, sap movie that we all watched before and its as if the author watched it, and then wrote it into her novel. Come on, like the part where Tom's father challenges him into giving his bride a "real kiss" around the dinner table.. Oh GOD...Please Spare us..
By then, I resolved to giving this book only three stars, I mean everything I read so far was SO typical. It was almost a replica of something else, and it was getting old fast.
Thankfully, the book got .5 more stars when the mystery of Victoria's attacker picked up and came full circle. The reader (me) took a break from scene after scene of sexual tension...at least temporarily :D
hmm, if you are a Hedlund fan you can read this. I remain a fan of hers, that's why I've read all her books. Recently however, her beacons of hope series has been a hit and miss for me. I've enjoyed one novel out of five in the series. I can't help but wonder if her stories are becoming typical, and the substance is being threatened because she's released a few in quite a short period of time.
November 18, 2016
Supply checklist necessary before starting to read Forever Safe:
fainting couch (and you might just need a back up one! Or a lot of cushy pillows on your floor to soften those mid-swoon falls.)
Fan...electrical, ceiling, paper...all of the above...in duplicate.
Chocolate....just because it goes so well with a reading binge and you won't be able to stop reading once you start this one.
Y'all think I'm joking, right? Uh-uh. Because while this is the fourth book in the Beacon of Hope series, it's the first indie published one. And that means that the author hasn't been restricted by traditional Christian publishing rules when it comes to the romantical. Now that doesn't mean that she crosses any lines, but gentle readers should know that passion explodes off the page in some scenes. In others it is barely restrained desire that set my heart a pitter-pattering. But both are always tempered by respect and gentle tenderness. Tom is just....thud.....well, he's why you need the fainting couch and the pillows on the floor. An honorable protector who made a promise to Victoria's father and intends to keep it....despite the fact that Victoria doesn't want him to. :-)
Victoria is ridiculously wealthy, spoiled but not snooty and endearing from the very first page -- and I loved the runaway bride angle! They say opposites attract and that fits Tom and Victoria perfectly. He challenges her to look beyond her pampered lifestyle so she can become the woman God made her to be. And she soothes the brokenness in his battered soul. Together they make each other stronger....if they can stop running from each other long enough to figure that out!
Hedlund blends humour, suspense and toe-tingling romance into a page-turner of a read.
fainting couch (and you might just need a back up one! Or a lot of cushy pillows on your floor to soften those mid-swoon falls.)
Fan...electrical, ceiling, paper...all of the above...in duplicate.
Chocolate....just because it goes so well with a reading binge and you won't be able to stop reading once you start this one.
Y'all think I'm joking, right? Uh-uh. Because while this is the fourth book in the Beacon of Hope series, it's the first indie published one. And that means that the author hasn't been restricted by traditional Christian publishing rules when it comes to the romantical. Now that doesn't mean that she crosses any lines, but gentle readers should know that passion explodes off the page in some scenes. In others it is barely restrained desire that set my heart a pitter-pattering. But both are always tempered by respect and gentle tenderness. Tom is just....thud.....well, he's why you need the fainting couch and the pillows on the floor. An honorable protector who made a promise to Victoria's father and intends to keep it....despite the fact that Victoria doesn't want him to. :-)
Victoria is ridiculously wealthy, spoiled but not snooty and endearing from the very first page -- and I loved the runaway bride angle! They say opposites attract and that fits Tom and Victoria perfectly. He challenges her to look beyond her pampered lifestyle so she can become the woman God made her to be. And she soothes the brokenness in his battered soul. Together they make each other stronger....if they can stop running from each other long enough to figure that out!
Hedlund blends humour, suspense and toe-tingling romance into a page-turner of a read.
May 19, 2016
I loved this book! I loved the whole series but this book really captured my interest and I love the way the story flowed. This is book #4 in the Beacons of Hope series but the books do not have to be read in order to be enjoyed.
Victoria is spoiled. That is a fact. She has no concept of how to live without being waited on hand and foot. Tom, on the other hand, has never enjoyed being in the midst of the super rich but because of his job he has no other choice. When he crosses paths with Victoria he knows he is in trouble. Can we say instant attraction? The author does a wonderful job of expressing the frustration and sexual tension between these two as the book goes on. Coming from two different directions will they ever be able to find a common ground? Just that thought alone kept me turning pages into the wee hours of the morning.
You will love this book! It is well worth your money and time! In fact, if you have not read any of the series please do. Ms. Hedlund did an outstanding job with these books and I learned a lot about lighthouses in the process which was very interesting.
Victoria is spoiled. That is a fact. She has no concept of how to live without being waited on hand and foot. Tom, on the other hand, has never enjoyed being in the midst of the super rich but because of his job he has no other choice. When he crosses paths with Victoria he knows he is in trouble. Can we say instant attraction? The author does a wonderful job of expressing the frustration and sexual tension between these two as the book goes on. Coming from two different directions will they ever be able to find a common ground? Just that thought alone kept me turning pages into the wee hours of the morning.
You will love this book! It is well worth your money and time! In fact, if you have not read any of the series please do. Ms. Hedlund did an outstanding job with these books and I learned a lot about lighthouses in the process which was very interesting.
June 13, 2016
This book delivered the proper dose of all that makes for a good read! To be honest, the cover is not my favorite, but I loved the story inside! From the beginning, Hedlund had me hooked; and she had no trouble keeping me that way as the story unfolded. Well written characters, romantic tension, a dash of danger and threads of faith all woven together in harmony.
Bodyguard and client, ultra-rich and your regular joe, marriage of pretense themes pack a punch and I honestly enjoyed these themes and the way Hedlund wrote them. They did not seem pat but organic to the story.
The romance was sweetly passionate and I enjoyed seeing the relationship build. Not only that I enjoyed seeing both the main characters grow and face their fears. All the way around, well done!
Romance - Clean, some sigh worthy kisses
Violence- Mild
Language -Clean
Faith Message - Encouraging. Stop running in fear and run toward the One Who is your help.
Bodyguard and client, ultra-rich and your regular joe, marriage of pretense themes pack a punch and I honestly enjoyed these themes and the way Hedlund wrote them. They did not seem pat but organic to the story.
The romance was sweetly passionate and I enjoyed seeing the relationship build. Not only that I enjoyed seeing both the main characters grow and face their fears. All the way around, well done!
Romance - Clean, some sigh worthy kisses
Violence- Mild
Language -Clean
Faith Message - Encouraging. Stop running in fear and run toward the One Who is your help.
July 10, 2016
Brilliant, loved it!! The romantic tension was plentiful and delicious, the characters were charismatic, the story thrilling, and the spiritual thread was inspiring! Highly recommend!
February 17, 2018
I was excited to read this book as it had one of those delicious plots where girl is in danger, guy protects her, girl and guy have a sham wedding and the fun ensues, etc etc.
I always like those pretend marriage stories.
Unfortunately, the good plot was kinda ruined for me with how the author approached the romance between Tom & Victoria.
It felt very over sexualized.
The pure romance to be expected of a couple falling in love felt kinda dirty because the author approached even the smallest romantic details with heavy sexual undertones. Nothing explicit occurred, but the way the author discussed everything between them seemed more like sex was occurring than a kiss. *cringe* I just didn’t like that, and found myself grimacing most times the main characters had any romantic moments.
As I said before, good plot, but for me at least, those other things kinda ruined the enjoyment of this read.
I always like those pretend marriage stories.
Unfortunately, the good plot was kinda ruined for me with how the author approached the romance between Tom & Victoria.
It felt very over sexualized.
The pure romance to be expected of a couple falling in love felt kinda dirty because the author approached even the smallest romantic details with heavy sexual undertones. Nothing explicit occurred, but the way the author discussed everything between them seemed more like sex was occurring than a kiss. *cringe* I just didn’t like that, and found myself grimacing most times the main characters had any romantic moments.
As I said before, good plot, but for me at least, those other things kinda ruined the enjoyment of this read.
May 16, 2023
May-August 1876/New York City, NY; Newport, RI; Provincetown, MA
This story is tied to two other books in this series but mostly to Beacons of Hope. Victoria and Tom are the main characters in this book. They come from different backgrounds, but they have one thing in common, which makes a possible future more bearable. Each family deals with this tragedy in a different way. I didn't like the way one family was portrayed in this book, but I understand why it was done that way. The ending, I think, should have gone differently. It does lead into the next book though.
This story is tied to two other books in this series but mostly to Beacons of Hope. Victoria and Tom are the main characters in this book. They come from different backgrounds, but they have one thing in common, which makes a possible future more bearable. Each family deals with this tragedy in a different way. I didn't like the way one family was portrayed in this book, but I understand why it was done that way. The ending, I think, should have gone differently. It does lead into the next book though.
August 7, 2022
Great book I love how they all entwine with each other. It is such a great concept basing all the books on different lighthouses. I love how at the end of each book you get to hear about the real lighthouse that she based the story on. This was a story though where it was not quite that believable but I just reminded myself that it was fiction.
June 2, 2016
The fourth installment of the Beacons of Hope series Forever Safe captivates with its charm.
Author Jody Hedlund continues her series by adding more suspense, drama and intrigue to this lovely Christian historical romance. Her characters come full circle to the original family of the cross and letter of hope.
Victoria Cole, soon to be married to a New York society son, Nathaniel Winthrop III, finds herself entangled in attempted abductions and threats on her life. Her father Henry Cole, among the wealthiest of 1876 New York, tries every conceivable plan to keep her safe.
Her bodyguard, Arch, is stabbed while protecting her in Grammercy park which brings the opportunity for his friend, Tom Cushman to take over his position until he recovers.
While more attempts are made to curtail the wedding, Tom devises a plan to lure the perpetrators from the shadows. He plans to take Victoria to an isolated lighthouse, Race Point where his father is the keeper. It is at the lighthouse where Victoria meets Tom's mother who is bound to a wheelchair after losing her feet to frostbite.
Beyond the intrigue of trying to figure out who is after Victoria, are multiple threads where both Tom and Victoria have to face demons in order to move forward in their lives. Tom has avoided "coming home" because he blames himself for his mother's condition. Now he plans to stay to be the assistant lighthouse keeper, but only as a guise to flush out the assailants. However he is in for a surprise of heart wrenching forgiveness and healing.
With her wedding postponed, pampered Victoria gets a rude awakening when she has to learn how to cook, clean and wash the laundry which is usually taken care of by hired help in her house. Tom's mother, Zelma,teaches her each step of the way while also giving Victoria a sense of accomplishment and self worth greater than what money bought Victoria previously.
Victoria's mother became blind in adulthood due to a inherited disease past down from her mother. The fear that Victoria might also succumb to the same disease gave her reason to break one engagement and leave another groom at the alter previous to her engagement to Nathaniel. Now that she sees how Tom's parents love each other unconditionally, she has to face her fear if she ever wants to be married. It is her growth that propels the story as the reader watches her mature throughout the pages.
It all comes to a head when betrayal threatens Victoria's life again. Lies are revealed and beliefs are contested to bring the story to a wonderful end. The cross and letter are passed on again, which perhaps could lead to book five?
Author Jody Hedlund weaves such a story that you can't put the book down until the end. It is uplifting and inspirational that readers can emulate the love within these pages by taking the sage advice of Tom's parents to heart. Hedlund pours her heart into these stories and it is abundantly clear her wish that her readers feel the emotions of her characters. If you haven't read the others in the series, begin with the prequel novella, Out of the Storm, then to Love Unexpected (1), Hearts Made Whole (2), Undaunted Hope (3) and now Forever Safe (4).
Be sure to visit Jody Hedlund's website to see all of her books at www.jodyhedlund.com
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by author Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for review purposes only; no other compensation was awarded.
Author Jody Hedlund continues her series by adding more suspense, drama and intrigue to this lovely Christian historical romance. Her characters come full circle to the original family of the cross and letter of hope.
Victoria Cole, soon to be married to a New York society son, Nathaniel Winthrop III, finds herself entangled in attempted abductions and threats on her life. Her father Henry Cole, among the wealthiest of 1876 New York, tries every conceivable plan to keep her safe.
Her bodyguard, Arch, is stabbed while protecting her in Grammercy park which brings the opportunity for his friend, Tom Cushman to take over his position until he recovers.
While more attempts are made to curtail the wedding, Tom devises a plan to lure the perpetrators from the shadows. He plans to take Victoria to an isolated lighthouse, Race Point where his father is the keeper. It is at the lighthouse where Victoria meets Tom's mother who is bound to a wheelchair after losing her feet to frostbite.
Beyond the intrigue of trying to figure out who is after Victoria, are multiple threads where both Tom and Victoria have to face demons in order to move forward in their lives. Tom has avoided "coming home" because he blames himself for his mother's condition. Now he plans to stay to be the assistant lighthouse keeper, but only as a guise to flush out the assailants. However he is in for a surprise of heart wrenching forgiveness and healing.
With her wedding postponed, pampered Victoria gets a rude awakening when she has to learn how to cook, clean and wash the laundry which is usually taken care of by hired help in her house. Tom's mother, Zelma,teaches her each step of the way while also giving Victoria a sense of accomplishment and self worth greater than what money bought Victoria previously.
Victoria's mother became blind in adulthood due to a inherited disease past down from her mother. The fear that Victoria might also succumb to the same disease gave her reason to break one engagement and leave another groom at the alter previous to her engagement to Nathaniel. Now that she sees how Tom's parents love each other unconditionally, she has to face her fear if she ever wants to be married. It is her growth that propels the story as the reader watches her mature throughout the pages.
It all comes to a head when betrayal threatens Victoria's life again. Lies are revealed and beliefs are contested to bring the story to a wonderful end. The cross and letter are passed on again, which perhaps could lead to book five?
Author Jody Hedlund weaves such a story that you can't put the book down until the end. It is uplifting and inspirational that readers can emulate the love within these pages by taking the sage advice of Tom's parents to heart. Hedlund pours her heart into these stories and it is abundantly clear her wish that her readers feel the emotions of her characters. If you haven't read the others in the series, begin with the prequel novella, Out of the Storm, then to Love Unexpected (1), Hearts Made Whole (2), Undaunted Hope (3) and now Forever Safe (4).
Be sure to visit Jody Hedlund's website to see all of her books at www.jodyhedlund.com
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by author Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for review purposes only; no other compensation was awarded.
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