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Grace #2
When I'm Weak
185,000+ Words
Jaycee Lawrence has never had room in her life for anything less than perfection. Now charged with keeping the hottest contractor on television in one piece and on schedule, her life revolves around production times and remodeling nightmares—not to mention the very real issue of guarding her heart from falling for her very eligible boss. Weakness in this industry is not an option, and it’s never been one for Jaycee either. Then life starts throwing kinks and curve balls at her. With her family back home in jeopardy, what will she choose -- the job and Derek or the life she left behind when it collapsed around her?
Derek West never pictured himself running his own construction show, but working for the Home & Hearth Channel has become his Number One priority. On the job, he will settle for nothing less than 100% perfection, and that’s why he likes having Jaycee around. His focus and drive is only surpassed by hers, and he has learned to relax and work and let her take care of the rest of his life for him. However, when tragic news strikes for Jaycee back home, Derek soon realizes his reliance on her might run deeper than just schedules and take-out. Can he fight the growing attraction with the woman he always thought was just doing her job? Or is Derek in much deeper than he ever thought possible—too deep to go back and deep enough to drown if he doesn’t figure out how to stay strong and resist the feelings that are quickly becoming impossible to ignore?
WHEN I’M WEAK is The Epic Sequel to MIRROR MIRROR
Jaycee Lawrence has never had room in her life for anything less than perfection. Now charged with keeping the hottest contractor on television in one piece and on schedule, her life revolves around production times and remodeling nightmares—not to mention the very real issue of guarding her heart from falling for her very eligible boss. Weakness in this industry is not an option, and it’s never been one for Jaycee either. Then life starts throwing kinks and curve balls at her. With her family back home in jeopardy, what will she choose -- the job and Derek or the life she left behind when it collapsed around her?
Derek West never pictured himself running his own construction show, but working for the Home & Hearth Channel has become his Number One priority. On the job, he will settle for nothing less than 100% perfection, and that’s why he likes having Jaycee around. His focus and drive is only surpassed by hers, and he has learned to relax and work and let her take care of the rest of his life for him. However, when tragic news strikes for Jaycee back home, Derek soon realizes his reliance on her might run deeper than just schedules and take-out. Can he fight the growing attraction with the woman he always thought was just doing her job? Or is Derek in much deeper than he ever thought possible—too deep to go back and deep enough to drown if he doesn’t figure out how to stay strong and resist the feelings that are quickly becoming impossible to ignore?
WHEN I’M WEAK is The Epic Sequel to MIRROR MIRROR
529 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2016
575 people are currently reading
303 people want to read
About the author
Staci Stallings
72 books582 followersA stay-at-home mom with a husband, three kids and a writing addiction on the side, Staci Stallings has numerous titles for readers to choose from. Not content to stay in one genre and write it to death, Staci’s stories run the gamut from young adult to adult, from motivational and inspirational to full-out Christian and back again. Every title is a new adventure! That’s what keeps Staci writing and you reading. Staci touches the lives of people across the globe every week with her various Internet endeavors including:
Spirit Light Books–The Blog:
http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com/
Facebook Author Page at:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spirit-...
Staci’s Ebook Romance Stories:
http://ebookromancestories.com/
Follow Staci on Twitter: @StaciStallings
Spirit Light Books–The Blog:
http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com/
Facebook Author Page at:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spirit-...
Staci’s Ebook Romance Stories:
http://ebookromancestories.com/
Follow Staci on Twitter: @StaciStallings
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 21, 2016
When I'm Weak is a wonderful book, focusing on the topics of what true love is, how to change, trust, and surrender.
The main characters, Derek West and Jaycee Lawrence, are realistic characters that help move the story along. The struggles each character went through were as well realistic. And along the novel, you find yourself empathizing with the characters and their lives.
One of the things I love about When I'm Weak was the bringing in of the other characters from the previous novel. I enjoyed seeing what they became and how their lives had played out since we've last seen them.
This is another wonderful novel by Staci Stallings that I truly enjoyed.
The main characters, Derek West and Jaycee Lawrence, are realistic characters that help move the story along. The struggles each character went through were as well realistic. And along the novel, you find yourself empathizing with the characters and their lives.
One of the things I love about When I'm Weak was the bringing in of the other characters from the previous novel. I enjoyed seeing what they became and how their lives had played out since we've last seen them.
This is another wonderful novel by Staci Stallings that I truly enjoyed.
October 4, 2023
So, after reading the first book in this series, I just had to pick up the next and keep reading.
I loved reading Jaycee’s story. She has so much happening in her life and so much that people don’t see from the outside.
I love home improvement shows and this story touches on what that life is like. The author also wove that whole process of restructuring into not only the houses they were working on but also how it can apply to our lives.
Staci Stallings weaves into each of her stories, beautiful lessons of God’s grace and protection. Her stories aren’t pushy or preachy. They are real with real-life issues. I’ve found that her writing is powerful and what she shares really hits the spot in my soul! She’s also an author who brings to life characters that will end up digging down deep into your soul! It amazed me how each character had something I could identify with and take to heart. It was exquisitely written and flowed smoothly, so smoothly that at the end my heart was tumbling all over the place. I laughed, I smiled, and I cried, throughout the book. There were so many emotions in just one reading! It truly touched my heart, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
Now I’m going to continue with the next book in the series because I just can’t get enough of these wonderful characters and what’s happening in their lives.
I highly recommend you pick this book up and read it, it just might change how you view things, and each moment in your life!
I loved reading Jaycee’s story. She has so much happening in her life and so much that people don’t see from the outside.
I love home improvement shows and this story touches on what that life is like. The author also wove that whole process of restructuring into not only the houses they were working on but also how it can apply to our lives.
Staci Stallings weaves into each of her stories, beautiful lessons of God’s grace and protection. Her stories aren’t pushy or preachy. They are real with real-life issues. I’ve found that her writing is powerful and what she shares really hits the spot in my soul! She’s also an author who brings to life characters that will end up digging down deep into your soul! It amazed me how each character had something I could identify with and take to heart. It was exquisitely written and flowed smoothly, so smoothly that at the end my heart was tumbling all over the place. I laughed, I smiled, and I cried, throughout the book. There were so many emotions in just one reading! It truly touched my heart, and I know it will stay with me for a long time.
Now I’m going to continue with the next book in the series because I just can’t get enough of these wonderful characters and what’s happening in their lives.
I highly recommend you pick this book up and read it, it just might change how you view things, and each moment in your life!
September 2, 2017
I totally enjoyed this book, the second in the series and am determined to buy the rest of the series as I can as well. I found the topics refreshing, while it was about a TV show star, it really brought him down to reality and dealt with hard topics.
August 29, 2017
Amazing!
This is the second book I've read by her and each time I'm blown away with how deeply it effects me. The truth of God is evident in her books. It raises questions of my own life and faith walk. I recommend this book with out a doubt.
This is the second book I've read by her and each time I'm blown away with how deeply it effects me. The truth of God is evident in her books. It raises questions of my own life and faith walk. I recommend this book with out a doubt.
August 12, 2017
Sweet story, well written, well edited, but...
... I couldn't finish it. Too much dithering by the main characters. The heroine is somewhat of a ninny. The hero has more personality. Perhaps I'm too old, but the constant checking of cell phones and being glued to devices just annoys me, even when fictional characters do it. If you're looking for a sweet, slow romance, then this should work for you. It is categorized as a Christian romance, but it's not terribly preachy.
... I couldn't finish it. Too much dithering by the main characters. The heroine is somewhat of a ninny. The hero has more personality. Perhaps I'm too old, but the constant checking of cell phones and being glued to devices just annoys me, even when fictional characters do it. If you're looking for a sweet, slow romance, then this should work for you. It is categorized as a Christian romance, but it's not terribly preachy.
August 10, 2017
Too long
This book was way too long and very unbelievable. The table of contents said 20 chapters so when I thought I was halfway through I figured just push through. It ended up being more than 30 chapters.
This book was way too long and very unbelievable. The table of contents said 20 chapters so when I thought I was halfway through I figured just push through. It ended up being more than 30 chapters.
August 4, 2017
Cute story. Was a little too drawn out and at times too much like a church sermon instead of a story. I want the Christian points smoothly worked into the story and there were several scenes where they were in church and you read the entire sermon.
September 8, 2019
3.5 stars--note: rating seen may depend on whether the site allows half stars to be recorded.
For me, this book got going in the last half or so where the two main characters (Jaycee and Derek) finally admit their feelings for each other and start working on their personal problems that have kpt them from romantic commitments in all their previous relationships. I liked the interaction between Mrs. P and Jaycee moreso than the ones between Pastor Steve and Derek because I felt like the female interactions flowed more naturally than the talks the men had. There were a couple times that both heard Pastor Steve preach a sermon--I have to admit that most of the time when that comes up in a book I tend to start skimming the text rather than reading the full sermon.
I think the readers that gave up on this book missed some good things that came at the end--but I can't really fault them for not finishing the book either because there were times I wondered if I was going to myself. The plot point of characters loving each other but neither being willing to admit it to the other is so over-done in romantic fiction these days. I'd so much rather read about couples that know they love each other but need to work through what life throws at them and come out the other side stronger for it.
This is billed as a Christian romance but the Christian part was hard to see in the early pages. I guess both believed in God but neither was really walking the Christian walk. That is another part that didn't really come to light until they settled in Jaycee's hometown of Ridgemont.
Kate/Katie was a bit of an annoying thorn in the side. I liked the boys (Luke's and Sage's as well as the pastor's boys) and how they helped out in the town after the hurricane. I liked that the town was building the boys's self worth by praising them and by being willing to let them help out and teach them skills. I was also glad to see that Derek made Mrs. P feel useful and made it seem like it was a trade for them to work on her house in exchange for her helping to feed the crew.
For me, this book got going in the last half or so where the two main characters (Jaycee and Derek) finally admit their feelings for each other and start working on their personal problems that have kpt them from romantic commitments in all their previous relationships. I liked the interaction between Mrs. P and Jaycee moreso than the ones between Pastor Steve and Derek because I felt like the female interactions flowed more naturally than the talks the men had. There were a couple times that both heard Pastor Steve preach a sermon--I have to admit that most of the time when that comes up in a book I tend to start skimming the text rather than reading the full sermon.
I think the readers that gave up on this book missed some good things that came at the end--but I can't really fault them for not finishing the book either because there were times I wondered if I was going to myself. The plot point of characters loving each other but neither being willing to admit it to the other is so over-done in romantic fiction these days. I'd so much rather read about couples that know they love each other but need to work through what life throws at them and come out the other side stronger for it.
This is billed as a Christian romance but the Christian part was hard to see in the early pages. I guess both believed in God but neither was really walking the Christian walk. That is another part that didn't really come to light until they settled in Jaycee's hometown of Ridgemont.
Kate/Katie was a bit of an annoying thorn in the side. I liked the boys (Luke's and Sage's as well as the pastor's boys) and how they helped out in the town after the hurricane. I liked that the town was building the boys's self worth by praising them and by being willing to let them help out and teach them skills. I was also glad to see that Derek made Mrs. P feel useful and made it seem like it was a trade for them to work on her house in exchange for her helping to feed the crew.
February 28, 2019
Derek West is the gorgeous host & head remodeler on a hit TV show. Jaycee is his assistant and all-around girl Friday. Jaycee has accepted that Derek has a girl in every city -- and that it will never be her. As frustrating as it is, Jaycee accepted that the only way to be around Derek was to be his assistant. All of this seems to be working. Until Hurricane Gabriel threatens her families' homes and businesses, dividing her attention between phone calls and her job. Suddenly, Derek sees her as a person -- a very caring, absolutely beautiful person.
Both Jaycee and Derek carry enough emotional and relationship baggage to fill a semi truck. Deciding whether another person is even worth investing in must be answered before any relationship can develop.
I LOVED this book and would give it more than 5 stars if I could. The characters are real, their reactions are authentic and they grow like normal people. I appreciate an author who allows the journey of growth to take place and that everything doesn't magically come together in a few pages.
Both Jaycee and Derek carry enough emotional and relationship baggage to fill a semi truck. Deciding whether another person is even worth investing in must be answered before any relationship can develop.
I LOVED this book and would give it more than 5 stars if I could. The characters are real, their reactions are authentic and they grow like normal people. I appreciate an author who allows the journey of growth to take place and that everything doesn't magically come together in a few pages.
October 1, 2017
I'm glad I read this book and didn't stop because I wasn't intrigued with the first.
Jaycee's life was very interesting. It seemed like a turn of events between Sage and her. Who she'd always expected Sage to be, she was fast becoming the Tom-boy version of that.
I liked her determination to life, very much reminds me of me.
The entire story had tears and laughter all in one book! I enjoyed it a lot.
The Pastor's sermons and godly counsels were a little too lengthy and sometimes quite confusing. I learnt a little out of some phrases but it was too much for reality.
The end of the book and sweetness for Jaycee was a little to quick in my opinion. It does take a while before next steps are taken. Didn't think it will happen all in same city.
Overall, it was very interesting, enlightening and heart warming.
Jaycee's life was very interesting. It seemed like a turn of events between Sage and her. Who she'd always expected Sage to be, she was fast becoming the Tom-boy version of that.
I liked her determination to life, very much reminds me of me.
The entire story had tears and laughter all in one book! I enjoyed it a lot.
The Pastor's sermons and godly counsels were a little too lengthy and sometimes quite confusing. I learnt a little out of some phrases but it was too much for reality.
The end of the book and sweetness for Jaycee was a little to quick in my opinion. It does take a while before next steps are taken. Didn't think it will happen all in same city.
Overall, it was very interesting, enlightening and heart warming.
November 16, 2019
I enjoyed this 2nd book in the Grace series though it was a bit lengthy with typos. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes goings on of a home renovation TV series. I felt that some of the tension & underlying storyline in the 1st half of the book was left unresolved as with the character Katie, & I couldn't understand why they were grabbing their own cereal and banana at a B&B where the owners were never present. Once moving to Ridgemount, I did enjoy the conversations with and sermons by Pastor Steve and interactions with Ms. P. Would have liked more of an update on Pastor Steve's wife Jane who was so wonderful in the 1st book. Overall, an enjoyable clean romance that I recommend.
November 11, 2017
Coming to terms with your past
This is my 3rd book by this author and she has not failed the reader.
This author grips the reader by not holding back the real issues that regular people deal with. She doesn't use "Christianese" to cover what the characters are struggling with.
This is real life and the reader will be pleasantly surprised at the analogies used by the characters to help the reader understand what the Bible is trying to teach us.
Highly recommended for the general audience!
This is my 3rd book by this author and she has not failed the reader.
This author grips the reader by not holding back the real issues that regular people deal with. She doesn't use "Christianese" to cover what the characters are struggling with.
This is real life and the reader will be pleasantly surprised at the analogies used by the characters to help the reader understand what the Bible is trying to teach us.
Highly recommended for the general audience!
August 27, 2017
Liked it
I really enjoyed this book. The one thing I didn't like was the abrupt ending. Yes, it' a happy ending, but leaves you hanging as it is clearly leading you into the next book in the series. I prefer stand-alone novels. If you love reading a series of books about the same characters, this book is definitely for you. It is a good story. And a good, clean read that I appreciate as well.
I really enjoyed this book. The one thing I didn't like was the abrupt ending. Yes, it' a happy ending, but leaves you hanging as it is clearly leading you into the next book in the series. I prefer stand-alone novels. If you love reading a series of books about the same characters, this book is definitely for you. It is a good story. And a good, clean read that I appreciate as well.
September 22, 2017
As usual, Stallings uses so many odd phrases over and over and over. It gets rather annoying with the characters constantly ducking their heads and winding their arms around themselves. And where are the proofreaders?!
Obviously, I liked the story despite its punctuation issues, redundant phrases, inconsistencies, and excessive length. She does bring up interesting topics, and I never felt the need for an eye-roll. I enjoyed these characters and their story!
Obviously, I liked the story despite its punctuation issues, redundant phrases, inconsistencies, and excessive length. She does bring up interesting topics, and I never felt the need for an eye-roll. I enjoyed these characters and their story!
April 26, 2018
This author has the knowledge and astuteness to also be a pastor as well as a counselor. The st of becoming a mature and responsible adult is never easy but after reading Ms. Stallings' stories based on Christian principles one can't help but be lifted up The recurring characters of Ms. P and Pastor Steve (and others)are inspiring as well. Her books may not be filled with sex and riches, but they are filled with love that lasts and grows over time.
June 6, 2018
When I am weak
Book two in the Grace Series serves up some deep thoughts. Derrick and Jaycee have worked together for a year. When the storm comes, they discover how important they are to each other. Before their happily ever after can happen, they have to work through some deep issues. Everyone needs a Pastor Steve around. I appreciate the wisdom and humility of his character. I'm ready to dig into book three.
Book two in the Grace Series serves up some deep thoughts. Derrick and Jaycee have worked together for a year. When the storm comes, they discover how important they are to each other. Before their happily ever after can happen, they have to work through some deep issues. Everyone needs a Pastor Steve around. I appreciate the wisdom and humility of his character. I'm ready to dig into book three.
December 11, 2019
3.5 ⭐
This book was good, but it could have been great. Toward the last half, I was really invested in Derek and Jaycee's story, but there were several instances where scenes felt unnecessary. A proper editing, where one could trim the fat and strengthen the telling of what's left, would have turned this into a strong 4 star read. I truly enjoyed the spiritual lessons that Derek and Jaycee learned and feel they were the greatest takeaway from this novel.
This book was good, but it could have been great. Toward the last half, I was really invested in Derek and Jaycee's story, but there were several instances where scenes felt unnecessary. A proper editing, where one could trim the fat and strengthen the telling of what's left, would have turned this into a strong 4 star read. I truly enjoyed the spiritual lessons that Derek and Jaycee learned and feel they were the greatest takeaway from this novel.
August 11, 2017
WOW What a book
I adore most in the Christian venue anyway. This came free, and has taken me a while to read it. I am coming to realize, I may get the book but being ready to read it, that is God's time. The last couple of days it was time for this one. I adore the characters, timeline and all of it. Thank you Ms Stallings for the book!
I adore most in the Christian venue anyway. This came free, and has taken me a while to read it. I am coming to realize, I may get the book but being ready to read it, that is God's time. The last couple of days it was time for this one. I adore the characters, timeline and all of it. Thank you Ms Stallings for the book!
December 22, 2017
Love this series
Jaycee grew into an interesting and complicated character. Her father's infidelity early in his marriage before she was born greatly affected her feelings about relationships. Derek is a typical guy. A TV star with women throwing themselves at him. I loved reading about their growth in faith and love.
Jaycee grew into an interesting and complicated character. Her father's infidelity early in his marriage before she was born greatly affected her feelings about relationships. Derek is a typical guy. A TV star with women throwing themselves at him. I loved reading about their growth in faith and love.
February 2, 2019
Kinda long
Kinda long story. Very sweet. But I felt that Derick looses himself and the storyline is more about him then the relationship. When it starts in her voice but we loose that too. Then in the end a lot of things are left hanging. I felt that the epilogue was written as a hurried was to end the story. It does end on a happy new t though.
Kinda long story. Very sweet. But I felt that Derick looses himself and the storyline is more about him then the relationship. When it starts in her voice but we loose that too. Then in the end a lot of things are left hanging. I felt that the epilogue was written as a hurried was to end the story. It does end on a happy new t though.
January 1, 2022
Perfect Read
I loved the characters , especially Jaycee. Her insecurities and mistrust in people ( including herself) were totally on spot.
I also enjoyed Pastor Steve. His reference to the poker was so funny. I will have to share it with my husband.
Then, there is Ms. P. Oh she is such a sweet lady!
Overall a good read!
I loved the characters , especially Jaycee. Her insecurities and mistrust in people ( including herself) were totally on spot.
I also enjoyed Pastor Steve. His reference to the poker was so funny. I will have to share it with my husband.
Then, there is Ms. P. Oh she is such a sweet lady!
Overall a good read!
April 7, 2022
Real Life Fiction
Even though this is a work of fiction, the characters couldn't have been more realistic. Every life experience and events were handled and underlined with biblical guides applicable to the real world. This is definitely NOT going to be a once and done read. I can see myself coming back to read this story again and again.
Even though this is a work of fiction, the characters couldn't have been more realistic. Every life experience and events were handled and underlined with biblical guides applicable to the real world. This is definitely NOT going to be a once and done read. I can see myself coming back to read this story again and again.
September 5, 2023
Emotion filled
Ms. Stallings gives the story and characters a realistic path of growth and transformation. I love the setting and plot. The characters are relatable. Ms. Stallings walks the fine balance between being preachy and sharing truth without offending the reader. Not a short book to read but I enjoyed the journey.
Ms. Stallings gives the story and characters a realistic path of growth and transformation. I love the setting and plot. The characters are relatable. Ms. Stallings walks the fine balance between being preachy and sharing truth without offending the reader. Not a short book to read but I enjoyed the journey.
August 14, 2017
Nothing Weak about This Novel
Staci Stallings once again pens an impressive story with characters that struggle and grow in their relationships and their faith. It is a well written story that keeps one enthralled from beginning to end.
Staci Stallings once again pens an impressive story with characters that struggle and grow in their relationships and their faith. It is a well written story that keeps one enthralled from beginning to end.
January 4, 2022
Cute story
While some parts of this book really drag on because it really goes into detail of the day-to-day tasks, it really pulls you into the whole story. Good, clean, Christian romance book.
While some parts of this book really drag on because it really goes into detail of the day-to-day tasks, it really pulls you into the whole story. Good, clean, Christian romance book.
February 24, 2022
What is love?
Stallings always writes a good story. I enjoy her books and how she deals with everyday problems. Jaycee and Derek work closely together, both have been wounded and need a hurricane to open their eyes to true love.
Stallings always writes a good story. I enjoy her books and how she deals with everyday problems. Jaycee and Derek work closely together, both have been wounded and need a hurricane to open their eyes to true love.
August 10, 2017
Very good!
August 26, 2017
Better than the first
Glad to share that this book had fewer typos and was better edited than the first. Looking forward to the next one.
Glad to share that this book had fewer typos and was better edited than the first. Looking forward to the next one.
September 10, 2017
I enjoyed the book a great deal. Wasn't struck on the head hopping, even if it was done as 3-4 lines separated by a blank line scene break. However that won't stop me finding the next in the series.
March 6, 2019
Great
This book is so much more substantial than a regular romance novel- it contains real Biblical truths- Can't wait to read more books by S Stallings!
This book is so much more substantial than a regular romance novel- it contains real Biblical truths- Can't wait to read more books by S Stallings!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews