Cole Sanders is a changed man. The university quarterback questions his direction in life after serving on a mission trip in Honduras. Things that used to fill Cole’s ego seem empty after witnessing the developing country’s extreme poverty and the death of a precious child. The one glimmer of hope through his confusion is the fresh perspective he now has about his tutor, Audrey. She possesses something beautiful inside and out—something that might help him become the person he wants to be.
University senior Audrey Vaughn tutored Cole Sanders for an entire year and never imagined the popular quarterback would see her as anything more than a friend. After partnering with him on the mission trip, they are drawn together. And he appears to have changed for the better. To let Cole into her life, Audrey will have to overcome not only her brother’s distrust, but also the paralyzing fear still lingering from a past she’s tried to leave behind.
Cole can’t walk away from Audrey now that they’re back in Oxford. He’ll have to figure out how to keep her giant of a brother, a lineman on his football team, from killing him when the coach has his back turned. But can Audrey trust her heart to a player so similar to the one who stole so much from her in the past?
Janet W. Ferguson is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the 2020 FHL Readers Choice Award. An avid reader and former librarian, she turned her love of story into writing contemporary faith-filled novels with realistic characters who feel like best friends. You’ll laugh and cry as the quirky heroes and heroines chase their happily ever after.
Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways. She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!
*Update for audio version: I have read this story before, but had not listened to the audio version until now. The story was just as moving as I remembered and the narration was so well done! The author did a good job with character voices and it made for a great listening experience.*
Tackling the Fields is the first book that I have read by this author, but it is definitely not the last! This story had exactly what I was looking for in my next read. The author tackled some pretty tough topics and did so with grace, weaving the issues into the story seamlessly and realistically.
Even though this novel is the third book of the Southern Hearts Series, I had no trouble at all jumping in and getting to know the characters from this book and previous stories. Now I am determined to read the other books of the series!
I loved, loved, loved the chemistry and interactions between Cole and Audrey. I also loved that these were flawed individuals who had much to work through and overcome. Some of these issues kept finding their way into their budding relationship and I appreciated that there wasn’t an easy fix for them. There was a lot of hurt to dig through and Cole had a lot to learn about God’s love and grace. This story had great emotional depth!
I am so enjoying Janet Ferguson’s Southern Hearts series. We got to know Cole and Audrey a bit more in the second book Going Up South, but in Tackling the Fields their stories are front and center.
Cole is one of those newly-redeemed rogues we love so much, a player in more ways than just being the university’s star quarterback. Watching him navigate the changes that Jesus has worked in his heart is sweet and sincere – and Janet Ferguson does a great job of weaving these discussions (both external and internal) naturally into the course of the story.
Audrey’s past isn’t full of parties and conquests like Cole’s, just one broken terror-filled memory perpetrated by a friend she trusted. A friend who reminds her a lot of Cole. Yet, deep down she knows that Cole IS different than the boy who still causes her nightmares and, even though Audrey’s brother Grant isn’t ready to trust a guy like Cole, Audrey herself is slowly giving him her heart. The memory of her trauma is written tactfully, with much dignity, and yet not at all minimizing the damage it did to Audrey’s spirit.
In addition to Audrey’s rape (and a sub-thread that builds off of this), Tackling the Fields also tackles the topic of human trafficking, a subject about which I’m very passionate. Again, this is written organically into both the plot and the narrative so the flow of the story isn’t disrupted. If human trafficking and its connection to prostitution and pornography isn’t something you’ve heard much about before, your introduction to it in these pages will hopefully trigger a desire to learn more – including ways to help combat this growing (and appalling) epidemic.
Bottom Line: Keep some tissues handy for this book! Tackling the Fields is an emotional journey but such a sweet one as well. For as often as you find your eyes welling with tears, you will also find yourself smiling at the tenderness of Audrey and Cole’s relationship. The first kiss! AH! So sweet! Moments of humor add levity when needed, and a bit of suspense keeps your pulse at attention. I loved watching Cole fall in love with Jesus…and with Audrey. And I especially loved watching Audrey fall for Cole. It’s not a smooth ride by any means – lots of bumps and bruises along the way – but it’s so worth every moment!
While this book IS part of a series, it could easily be read as a stand-alone.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
This book had so many different issues and Janet Ferguson tackled them all with God's love and grace. A wonderful romance and a heart wrenching read. You have to read this book and I highly recommend the series as well.
"Tackling the Fields" by Janet W. Ferguson is the third book in the (Southern Hearts Series ) and my favorite of the series so far. I say so far because a fourth book is coming.
In my opinion "Tackling the Fields" by Janet W. Ferguson can be enjoyed as a stand alone, unless you are like me and must read series in order and in their entirety.
"Tackling the Fields" deals with hard subjects like drug abuse and alcohol and sex trafficking and porn and rape but nothing is explicit and this book is written without bedroom scenes or curse words. I applaud Janet Ferguson for writing about these subjects in an easy to follow story and in a way that all readers can enjoy. Please don't let these issues stop you from reading this book, I promise you this a clean story.
"Tackling the Fields" by Janet W. Ferguson is a five star book that details college life accurately.
There was a scene toward the end that was heart stopping for a moment because this reader was saying "Oh No, That cannot happen." No, I can't tell you anymore than this, you must read the book to find out for yourself.
The book is centered around football players and their families and friends but the book is really about becoming the person God intended them to be. And for the record I do not like football but really wasn't bored with the few tackle scenes described in the story.
There are several themes in this book, such as trust, forgiveness and healing and yes it is a clean romance. The characters all change as a result of these themes.
I was given a pfd copy of "Tackling the Fields" By Janet W. Ferguson by the author and Celebrate Lit for my honest review for the book tour.
I listened to this book on audible. I loved this story so much. It was such a sweet, romantic, and inspirational book.The narrator did an excellent job.
Southern Hearts is primarily about Cole, a college quarterback, and Audrey, the sister of one of his lineman. Their story is about trust and moving beyond the past. As a part of Cole's story, readers learn about concussions. This is a topic I know very little about and found those details in particular to be interesting.
There is one minor thing that didn't ring true for me. In the story, Audrey's brother Grant calls his friend's father by his first name. This seems out of character to me for a young man raised in the south.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Southern Hearts Series and look forward to the conclusion.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. While I read my Kindle version of the book, it is a treasure to have an autographed copy of a novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
This is an amazing read that really captures the hardships we experience. It tells of heartache and hardships. Gods love and compassion can help anyone and everyone through these times. This series has become a favorite of mine and it’s based in a place close to my heart. Hotty toddy!
Tackling the Fields by Janet W. Ferguson is book 3 in the Southern Hearts Series. This book was amazing, a great read, and a story that we all can relate to. Being able to relate to the character's in this book made it a book that I couldn't put down. Change isn't easy and it takes surrounding ourselves with the right people, God's word, and great church family helps us see that change can be a good thing.
In Tackling the Fields the story of Cole Sanders and Audrey Vaughn pick up from their mission trip to Honduras. This trip has opened Cole's eyes up to a different world and to see that life is so much more than being popular.
I recommend this book to everyone, believe me when I say, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit, the Author, and the Publisher for providing me a copy of this book for my honest review.
Another great book by Janet Ferguson! I loved diving into the lives of Cole and Audrey while still getting glimpses of the former characters in the series that we have come to love. I think my favorite part of this book was getting to know Cole Sanders. Too often, Christian fiction writers show a former party boy turned Christian and magically his former life and past sins are no longer a concern. Ferguson realistically portrayed Cole still struggling with his desire to sin and I appreciated that. I also appreciated how she told a story that respectfully dealt with what so many people deal with in life- anxiety as a result of trauma. Loved this third book in the Southern Hearts Series!
I could barely put this book down! This book is going on my keeper shelf! Tackling the Fields is the third book in Janet W. Ferguson's Southern Hearts series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone book. This book appealed to me because of the "friends become something more" theme. The book went so much deeper than I anticipated. I have to say again that I could barely put this book down! This book dealt with some serious topics, but in a very thoughtful way. Go to www.sprinklesandpink.blogspot.com for my complete review.
Football quarterback and a lady who works at a Country Club go on a mission trip. L Things get exciting when they get back home. How they handle their pasts determines their future.
I love it. Cole and Audrey are a great couple even though they're young. I loved how the conflict that drew them apart came from within themselves and also from happenings caused by other character's. It was awesome how Cole's growth as a Christian was shown. The issues that Ferguson brought in to the story were treated well and how she used them in the character's life's was realistic. Though I wish those things weren't happening in this world, we have a Great and Mighty God who sees the sparrow in its flight and who also take care of His children. The ending was awesome and was a nice close to a great story. I'd like to read this again.
Tears of sadness, tears of joy. Life continues to bombard our faith but with God all things are possible through prayer with God and communication with others. Like Aubrey's father said, "Communicating with God is like having a good friend."
There are very few ( if any) of Janet W. Ferguson's books that I dislike. It would be safer to say that I like them all. In this one, there was an amazing change in Cole ( but that's what God can do). Audrey had quite a bit of healing to go through, but no one can blame her considering what she's been through.
"Beauty for ashes and to proclaim freedom for the captives."
Audrey Vaughn struggles to accept the fact that Cole Sanders is even suggesting an attraction, his once playboy celebrity quarterback status has certainly mellowed after a mission trip to Honduras where they bonded, but will his newfound interest in spiritual things even last? On the other hand, Audrey's interest in ministering to young women, who have experienced the kind of unlawful pain she once endured, could be serving as an obstacle, rather than an opportunity. Is she willing to tackle that opponent head on?
Cole Sanders hardly recognizes himself, and the effect that a relationship with a God of mercy has produced, as he faces his senior year of football and dreams of turning pro. One of the biggest surprises has been Audrey; her lovely, quiet spirit serving as a balm; if only her gigantic, over-protective brother would back off. Seriously, there must a reason that Grant hovers around his every move. Can't he just leave his tackles on the football field?
This is a sweet, honest, revealing story of two young people who crave unconditional love, but must overcome the darkness of their pasts in order to trust in God's plan for their future. And with lines like, "a face without freckles is like a sky without stars", Cole has a pretty good chance of wooing his sweet Audrey.
As I've read Janet W. Ferguson's Southern Hearts novels, I've been impressed by how realistic they seem, even though they feature characters who live extraordinary lives (at least extraordinary compared to the lives lived in my little corner of the world)—college football coaches, movie stars, football players with major draft prospects.
Tackling the Fields centers on college quarterback Cole Sanders and Audrey Vaughn, his tutor-turned-crush. Following a life-changing mission trip to Honduras (which takes place in the previous book, Going Up South), Cole feels pulled toward Christ and toward Audrey. As he grapples with his faith and his feelings, Audrey deals with her own scars that keep her from fully trusting Cole.
Overall, I enjoyed Tackling the Fields. It deals with weighty topics like date rape, human trafficking, and addiction, but it also provides a compelling love story. While I did feel like maybe a few too many things were packed into the novel, so not everything was paid off (such as the oft mentioned but never seen Harrison), I really enjoyed Cole and Audrey's story. 4 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The Southern Hearts series has something for everyone! The variety and authenticity of these interconnected character backgrounds and personalities and tight-knit community are truly inspiring. I especially applaud the author for spotlighting various important issues that tend to get swept under the rug!
Cole unquestionably experienced a change of heart during the Honduras mission trip yet changing his habits back in Oxford and navigating a new path is tricky business. Audrey is still battling the fear and despair from her past but she feels drawn to Cole and completely conflicted about trusting anyone with her heart. Oh, I love the way these characters experience God's grace and healing, good stuff y'all!
I requested the opportunity to read and review this title through the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
First, I have to say that I really liked this book. There are some very real, very difficult subjects and situations dealt with. I think the author handles these with respect and sensitivity. I loved the changes the mission trip to Honduras made in Cole. He still deals with temptation but he holds on to his new found faith. He still has faults. Audrey is still dealing with a traumatic experience. Her large, linebacker brother is very overprotective and always nearby. Audrey and Cole have a sweet romance beginning but they also have much to overcome. It's odd to say that I liked their struggles. The way they jumped to conclusions and stewed in their own misery felt very real. I loved the Bible study that Cole asked Audrey to do with him. ❤ * I also listened to the Audible version of this book. The narrator does a magnificent job of bringing out the intense emotions of the characters.
While Cole and Audrey's story confronts some really serious and heartbreaking issues, it also shines a light of hope and peace through the most difficult circumstances.
The emotional and physical trauma that Audrey has to confront and overcome struck me deeply, knowing other courageous survivors of sexual abuse. I love the raw truths about the effects of that horror balanced with the healing that can only come through the work of Christ in our lives.
Cole's character really struck a chord with me, even more so than Audrey's. I share aspects of his sordid past and am all too familiar with the struggles and guilt that result. His journey is beautiful, uplifting, and inspiring.
All of the characters in this book feel real and flawed, human, and so easy to relate to. The flow of conversation and the story are wonderfully done, keeping me hooked from start to finish. I can't wait for the next book in the series and whatever else Janet has up her sleeve.
Cole and Grant another fight. All he was doing was hugging Grant sister goodbye. The coach intervened saying somehow they would learn to work together on the field and off. Coach would have them both talk about their time in Honduras. Audrey tutors Cole, and sees the change, and the direction he wants to go. Can her and her brother Grant quit measuring Cole from a mistake she made in her past. Cute story of healing, love and what God wants in their lives.
Audrey allowed a tragedy in her past to cause her to forget that, even if she couldn’t trust people, she could always trust God. Psalm 118:5-6 says, “When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Sometimes I need to remember to surrender my problems to God so that he can set me free and I can learn to trust again. This inspirational story reminded me that God feels my pain and wants me to move past it. I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see how Audrey’s story would end.
This series continues to hold my interest. Love that along with this being Cold and Audrey's story you find out more about previous characters. The spiritual parts are so inspiring.
This was another great pat story with the setting in Oxford. Audrey and Cole are the main characters in this story about the campus life at the cool ledge. Cole was the quarterback a,d and Audrey attended school there. Bothe were involved in student ministry. A trip to Honduras changed both of their lives. Enjoy their story.
This is the third in Ms. Ferguson's Southern Hearts series, set in Oxford, Mississippi. Each volume deals with real people, learning to deal with real problems, with God's help. This one centers on university football player Cole Sanders and talented singer Audrey Vaughn, but also features "cameos" from the couples in the first two books, Leaving Oxford and Going Up South.
This book covered a lot of tough topics but overall I loved it. Trust and communication are the keys to a lasting relationship. Faith helps a lot also.
Take two of my favorite things - reading and football - put them together and this makes for one happy girl! I have loved every one of the novels in this series, keep 'm coming!