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Harbor Pointe #1
Just Look Up
After tirelessly climbing the ranks of her Chicago-based interior design firm, Lane Kelley is about to land her dream promotion when devastating news about her brother draws her back home--a quaint tourist town full of memories she'd just as soon forget. With her cell phone and laptop always within reach, Lane aims to check on her brother while staying focused on work--something her eclectic family doesn't understand.
Ryan Brooks never expected to settle down in Harbor Pointe, Michigan, but after his final tour of duty, it was the only place that felt like home. Now knee-deep in a renovation project that could boost tourism for the struggling town, he is thrilled to see Lane, the girl he secretly once loved, even if the circumstances of her homecoming aren't ideal.
Their reunion gets off to a rocky start, however, when Ryan can't find a trace of the girl he once knew in the woman she is today. As he slowly chips away at the walls Lane has built, secrets from his past collide with a terrible truth even he is reluctant to believe. Facing a crossroads that could define his future with Lane and jeopardize his relationship with the surrogate family he's found in the Kelleys, Ryan hopes Lane can see that maybe what really matters has been right in front of her all along--if only she'd just look up.
Ryan Brooks never expected to settle down in Harbor Pointe, Michigan, but after his final tour of duty, it was the only place that felt like home. Now knee-deep in a renovation project that could boost tourism for the struggling town, he is thrilled to see Lane, the girl he secretly once loved, even if the circumstances of her homecoming aren't ideal.
Their reunion gets off to a rocky start, however, when Ryan can't find a trace of the girl he once knew in the woman she is today. As he slowly chips away at the walls Lane has built, secrets from his past collide with a terrible truth even he is reluctant to believe. Facing a crossroads that could define his future with Lane and jeopardize his relationship with the surrogate family he's found in the Kelleys, Ryan hopes Lane can see that maybe what really matters has been right in front of her all along--if only she'd just look up.
416 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2017
976 people are currently reading
4522 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Walsh
38 books5,878 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 506 reviews
September 3, 2017
I really connected easily with these characters and enjoyed every moment of this story. I've known people who felt like Lane did...an outsider in their own family. Not just any family to feel alone in, either—five kids and many honorary kids, because her parents had huge hearts and wanted to help all sorts of people. But Lane is so different, and all she can see are the differences, and the pain of having been teased in school mercilessly (and her mother doesn't think the teasing was that bad, because her mother is determined to think well of everyone).
It's tender, heartfelt books like this one that make me keep reading contemporary fiction. I've never enjoyed contemporary to quite the same level as historical, but every now and then there's one that just fills up my heart and warms it all through. This is a delightful story, and I loved spending time with Lane, Ryan ("Brooks"), and (most of) the whole colorful cast of side characters. For now it's a stand-alone, but I hope Courtney Walsh will consider returning to this cozy small town for another story at some point! (Edit, 9/2017: It is now listed as #1 of a series. So happy!)
Anyway, Ryan, a veteran, has his own issues to think about, including an alcoholic father and a best friend in a coma in the hospital. He was deployed when Lane's life fell apart and he hadn't kept up with her much before that. To me, I didn't connect emotionally with him to the same degree as to Lane, partly because he was further along the road to healing, and she had so many more things to work through in the present. But he was a great hero, and he showed so many great hero qualities.
I liked it that both characters are already Christians, and though there wasn't tons of Christian-y stuff in the book, it's to the point and enjoyable. While you couldn't accuse it of being preachy, it's clear where the characters are in their beliefs and that they grow to be more dependent on God through the course of the book.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free review copy. Positive review not required.
It's tender, heartfelt books like this one that make me keep reading contemporary fiction. I've never enjoyed contemporary to quite the same level as historical, but every now and then there's one that just fills up my heart and warms it all through. This is a delightful story, and I loved spending time with Lane, Ryan ("Brooks"), and (most of) the whole colorful cast of side characters. For now it's a stand-alone, but I hope Courtney Walsh will consider returning to this cozy small town for another story at some point! (Edit, 9/2017: It is now listed as #1 of a series. So happy!)
Anyway, Ryan, a veteran, has his own issues to think about, including an alcoholic father and a best friend in a coma in the hospital. He was deployed when Lane's life fell apart and he hadn't kept up with her much before that. To me, I didn't connect emotionally with him to the same degree as to Lane, partly because he was further along the road to healing, and she had so many more things to work through in the present. But he was a great hero, and he showed so many great hero qualities.
I liked it that both characters are already Christians, and though there wasn't tons of Christian-y stuff in the book, it's to the point and enjoyable. While you couldn't accuse it of being preachy, it's clear where the characters are in their beliefs and that they grow to be more dependent on God through the course of the book.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free review copy. Positive review not required.
July 13, 2017
The title of this book is absolutely perfect! The story portrays a powerful theme of the importance of looking up from technology or the busyness of the daily grind to cultivate our relationships with those around us, appreciate the beauty of life, and take time for peaceful moments. A deeper theme is looking up to God for help with accomplishing this, even through our struggles and difficult times.
Lane is flawed but easy to relate to. She has many hurts from her growing up years and is extremely vulnerable- so much so that she left town at the first chance and never looked back. She sacrificed her relationships in order to forget her past, but in reality it shapes who she is and affects her choices. The author skillfully reveals various details gradually, keeping me curious and full of anticipation as I read. I feel like I connected more with Brooks, who used a never-ending positive attitude to cope with his insecurities and trials. He and Lane had great romantic chemistry and tension, and I loved seeing him charm and tease her into smiling and lifting her mood. I enjoyed the different phases of Lane and Brooks journey as they deal with pressure and stress from work and learn important lessons from each other. There are so many details I loved in this book but I don't want to share any spoilers, so I'll just say, this is such a great book! Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed are my own)
Lane is flawed but easy to relate to. She has many hurts from her growing up years and is extremely vulnerable- so much so that she left town at the first chance and never looked back. She sacrificed her relationships in order to forget her past, but in reality it shapes who she is and affects her choices. The author skillfully reveals various details gradually, keeping me curious and full of anticipation as I read. I feel like I connected more with Brooks, who used a never-ending positive attitude to cope with his insecurities and trials. He and Lane had great romantic chemistry and tension, and I loved seeing him charm and tease her into smiling and lifting her mood. I enjoyed the different phases of Lane and Brooks journey as they deal with pressure and stress from work and learn important lessons from each other. There are so many details I loved in this book but I don't want to share any spoilers, so I'll just say, this is such a great book! Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed are my own)
August 17, 2017
Y’all.
This book.
It purse whomped ME in the best possible way.
A heroine who is so attached to her work, to her dreams, that she’s more stressed about missing her deadline than she is about the family emergency that called her away. A heroine who deals with body image issues, anxiety issues, and may need to be surgically separated from her smart phone.
Oh my goodness, y’all. I related to Lane on so many levels.
And then there’s Ryan Brooks. Can we just say yum-my?!? He lived up to all my swoonilicious expectations and then some! Strong in character as well as physically, Brooks is a flirt and a gentleman all at the same time. And his kisses!!!!
(Did I mention he rides a motorcycle?)
Pardon me while I melt into a little Book Boyfriend puddle all over again.
Ahem.
Besides being a hit-you-in-all-the-feels romance, Just Look Up has a timely and important message for all of us. The rat race clamors for us to do more, be more, and achieve more. And somewhere along the way, we’ve forgotten to look up and to be still. We’ve also forgotten the power of forgiveness, trading it for our perceived right to be right. We’ve missed the point that forgiveness doesn’t make it alright – it makes us alright.
Bottom Line: Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh is poignant and sincere, with just the right amount of flirting and faith. Ryan Brooks is the perfect book boyfriend, and you’ll find yourself grinning like a lovesick teenager whenever he’s on the page. Lane is a heroine who could be your sister, your best friend, your coworker … even you yourself. Together, they team up with a colorful cast of supporting characters to tell a sweet story of family, forgiveness, and restoration. This one will be lingering in my heart for a while!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
This book.
It purse whomped ME in the best possible way.
A heroine who is so attached to her work, to her dreams, that she’s more stressed about missing her deadline than she is about the family emergency that called her away. A heroine who deals with body image issues, anxiety issues, and may need to be surgically separated from her smart phone.
Oh my goodness, y’all. I related to Lane on so many levels.
And then there’s Ryan Brooks. Can we just say yum-my?!? He lived up to all my swoonilicious expectations and then some! Strong in character as well as physically, Brooks is a flirt and a gentleman all at the same time. And his kisses!!!!
(Did I mention he rides a motorcycle?)
Pardon me while I melt into a little Book Boyfriend puddle all over again.
Ahem.
Besides being a hit-you-in-all-the-feels romance, Just Look Up has a timely and important message for all of us. The rat race clamors for us to do more, be more, and achieve more. And somewhere along the way, we’ve forgotten to look up and to be still. We’ve also forgotten the power of forgiveness, trading it for our perceived right to be right. We’ve missed the point that forgiveness doesn’t make it alright – it makes us alright.
Bottom Line: Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh is poignant and sincere, with just the right amount of flirting and faith. Ryan Brooks is the perfect book boyfriend, and you’ll find yourself grinning like a lovesick teenager whenever he’s on the page. Lane is a heroine who could be your sister, your best friend, your coworker … even you yourself. Together, they team up with a colorful cast of supporting characters to tell a sweet story of family, forgiveness, and restoration. This one will be lingering in my heart for a while!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 21, 2017
Y'all, Just Look Up maybe my favorite Courtney Walsh book. I know that's hard to believe because Paper Hearts is phenomenal (not to mention her others), but I'm picking Just Look Up because I literally devoured it.
From the moment I read the opening line I was hook. Ms. Walsh effectively created tension on the very first page. I knew something was coming, but what? Side note: I don't read blurbs, unless I have to.
Every part in the story created more tension, more intrigue. Lane seemed to have a heartbreaking background. I empathized with her and wanted to give her a hug. :)
And Ryan was the perfect hero for Lane! Perfect, I say!! His wit, charm, and loyalty was refreshing. Even more interesting, her family loved him like their own.
Y'all, there is so much more to this book than just the romantic feels. Although, Ms. Walsh wrote them in spade! Ryan and Lane both have a past to overcome and a God who can put it all into perspective. You'll love Just Look Up.
*I received an ARC copy via NetGalley. This is my own, honest opinion.
From the moment I read the opening line I was hook. Ms. Walsh effectively created tension on the very first page. I knew something was coming, but what? Side note: I don't read blurbs, unless I have to.
Every part in the story created more tension, more intrigue. Lane seemed to have a heartbreaking background. I empathized with her and wanted to give her a hug. :)
And Ryan was the perfect hero for Lane! Perfect, I say!! His wit, charm, and loyalty was refreshing. Even more interesting, her family loved him like their own.
Y'all, there is so much more to this book than just the romantic feels. Although, Ms. Walsh wrote them in spade! Ryan and Lane both have a past to overcome and a God who can put it all into perspective. You'll love Just Look Up.
*I received an ARC copy via NetGalley. This is my own, honest opinion.
July 10, 2017
I am a fan of Walsh's. After reading her first three books, Sweethaven series. So I was so excited to read Just Look Up.
A book of Forgiveness and Family and a sweet romance that you are sure to fall in love with the characters. I would love to visit Brooks cabins and I would love to be part of Lane's family dinners each week.
I felt like I was living in the pages of this book as I watched great things unfold on the pages right in front of me.
I love a sweet romance with a swoon worthy character like Brooks. You don't want to miss this 5 star beach read.
Please don't email me. This is just my opinion this is by far my favorite book by Walsh!
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
A book of Forgiveness and Family and a sweet romance that you are sure to fall in love with the characters. I would love to visit Brooks cabins and I would love to be part of Lane's family dinners each week.
I felt like I was living in the pages of this book as I watched great things unfold on the pages right in front of me.
I love a sweet romance with a swoon worthy character like Brooks. You don't want to miss this 5 star beach read.
Please don't email me. This is just my opinion this is by far my favorite book by Walsh!
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
May 1, 2019
Hmm . . . I have conflicting thoughts on this . . . While it was an interesting story, I have issues with the romance and how things played out in relation to that. I loved the Michigan setting! While this definitely wasn't my favorite, I am still interested to read more by Walsh.
May 8, 2018
This book was so good and thoughtful! Just Look Up is easily one of top books I've read this year! I really just love the concept and the people in this story. Sometimes it's so easy get so caught up with the rush of life and the demands that it has, that we forget to slow down and take time to enjoy the life God has given us.
Lane was such a good character to relate to and learn from. There were so many things that hit home for me as I read this story. Lane really struggles with self- image that she really puts lot of pressure on herself to succeed. I really enjoyed Lane's evolution throughout the story as she goes back to her hometown of Habor Pointe, because of a family emergency, she is forced to face and sort through past family issues and hurts. Ya'll let just say the drama gets real! But Courney Walsh did a great job of tackling diffcult issues of family without making the story depressing.
Ryan Brooks was hasgtag-boyfriend-goals! He was like a breath of fresh air. His character brought a lightness to story, eventhough he was going through issues as well. He was so thoughtful and attentive in that not-overly-perfect way.
I love how Lane and Ryan were friends for so long! The flashback moments of their early years just melted my heart. This book just hit every level of the feels-o-meter for me! This is a awesome book to add your summer TBR list, 5 stars all the way!!
July 5, 2017
(4.5 Stars) How many times in life do we get so focused on ourselves that we can't see what's really important? I know for me, it happens more often than I'd like it to. Lane is a very successful career woman, but an accident that leaves her brother in a coma sends her home--a place where she's never felt like she belongs. My heart cracked a little bit for Lane, even though at first, I didn't really understand why, especially because she's one of those powerful women who kind of intimidate me. As the book progressed, more of her story and feelings came to light and there are some pretty hefty reasons to why she feels as she does and why she doesn't come around. I found myself a little frustrated with her at times and wished she could get some help to move on and quit dwelling in the past. But those kinds of issues take a lot of time.
What good is a story without some romance? Ryan is Lane's brother's best friend and this man is tough. A former military man, he knows how to dig in and how to be completely committed to something, which shows time and again. From work to romance, this guy is a hard-working, persistent man--I couldn't help but to adore him.
There are some heavy issues that encompass this family. Family dynamics are always interesting, especially when some of the members don't even realize there's a problem. People handle things and show emotion in different ways and it's so easy to misinterpret true intentions. I was fully invested in watching Lane figure life out and become a butterfly.
The setting swept me away and the characters became life-like. There is some real meat to the story, along with a lovely, sweet romance and some fantastically written characters and situations. This is a book that stayed with me for a long time, as I came to feel a part of this community and this family, and I left feeling very satisfied. This is my first book by Walsh and it definitely won't be my last.
Content: mild romance (an implied intimate situation, kissing); mild-moderate religious elements.
*I received a copy, which didn't influence my opinion. All thoughts are my own.*
What good is a story without some romance? Ryan is Lane's brother's best friend and this man is tough. A former military man, he knows how to dig in and how to be completely committed to something, which shows time and again. From work to romance, this guy is a hard-working, persistent man--I couldn't help but to adore him.
There are some heavy issues that encompass this family. Family dynamics are always interesting, especially when some of the members don't even realize there's a problem. People handle things and show emotion in different ways and it's so easy to misinterpret true intentions. I was fully invested in watching Lane figure life out and become a butterfly.
The setting swept me away and the characters became life-like. There is some real meat to the story, along with a lovely, sweet romance and some fantastically written characters and situations. This is a book that stayed with me for a long time, as I came to feel a part of this community and this family, and I left feeling very satisfied. This is my first book by Walsh and it definitely won't be my last.
Content: mild romance (an implied intimate situation, kissing); mild-moderate religious elements.
*I received a copy, which didn't influence my opinion. All thoughts are my own.*
April 17, 2018
I was super excited to read this novel after hearing a lot of positive buzz. Around 20% in though, I was thinking "what is all the fuss about?". And then...the writing pulled me in with the tension and stress that Lane was going through. And the banter between Ryan and Lane was wonderful. This was a cute novel with an important message.
August 23, 2017
" . . . a place to belong . . . . it had been there all along . . . But she had never looked up . . . . "
For all intents and purposes, Lane Kelly is super-glued to her high profile interior design career in Chicago; answering every text, posting on every blog, keeping up with the competition and its incessant chatter on social media, all in hopes of "making it", proving to herself and others that she is somehow worthy of their admiration. When a desperate phone call interrupts one of the most important presentations of her career, Lane forces herself to take a trip down memory lane and returns home to the family that she left behind in the quaint, quiet, little town of Harbor Point, Michigan.
Ryan Brooks has not laid eyes on Lane Kelly in years, but the memory of her rushes back, filling his senses with unexpected fascination. She's gorgeous, and poised, and stoic; sitting in an ICU unit beside her brother who has just barely survived the same motorcycle accident that Ryan was in, only Nate lies in a coma. Of course she came. It's only as Ryan tries to slip back into the easy camaraderie they once shared as teens, that he begins to realize how deeply Lane was wounded by the people that should have loved her the most.
There are so many reasons to celebrate this story, but rising above them all is the reminder to view ourselves as our Creator sees us; loved far beyond our misconceptions and mistakes, for the Son of the carpenter is, and always will be, in the restoration business.
For all intents and purposes, Lane Kelly is super-glued to her high profile interior design career in Chicago; answering every text, posting on every blog, keeping up with the competition and its incessant chatter on social media, all in hopes of "making it", proving to herself and others that she is somehow worthy of their admiration. When a desperate phone call interrupts one of the most important presentations of her career, Lane forces herself to take a trip down memory lane and returns home to the family that she left behind in the quaint, quiet, little town of Harbor Point, Michigan.
Ryan Brooks has not laid eyes on Lane Kelly in years, but the memory of her rushes back, filling his senses with unexpected fascination. She's gorgeous, and poised, and stoic; sitting in an ICU unit beside her brother who has just barely survived the same motorcycle accident that Ryan was in, only Nate lies in a coma. Of course she came. It's only as Ryan tries to slip back into the easy camaraderie they once shared as teens, that he begins to realize how deeply Lane was wounded by the people that should have loved her the most.
There are so many reasons to celebrate this story, but rising above them all is the reminder to view ourselves as our Creator sees us; loved far beyond our misconceptions and mistakes, for the Son of the carpenter is, and always will be, in the restoration business.
April 21, 2018
In today's society, where everyone is glued to their cell phones and tablet computers, the message of this book--put away the devices and look at your surroundings--is very inspiring and timely. In fact, I think I need to make some changes in my own digital habits.
Read
June 9, 2022DNF at p127.
I just wasn’t getting into the writing and I found the characters kind of boring. The family was annoying. Wasn’t feeling it sadly.
I just wasn’t getting into the writing and I found the characters kind of boring. The family was annoying. Wasn’t feeling it sadly.
April 3, 2018
This is the third book I have read by Courtney Walsh and definitely count it as my favorite so far. Lane Kelly is a high powered interior designer burying herself in her work to hide all the pain of being bullied and teased when she was growing up due to a weight problem. But when her brother is seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, she has no choice but to head back to Harbor Point. Ryan Brooks was mentored by Lane's Dad as a pre-teen/teenager when he was trying to avoid his drunken, abusive father and became a part of the Kelly family along with his little sister. They are both back in Harbor Point and have to face their pasts before they can find their futures.
This book focuses on several hard topics and does it well: bullying, teasing, parental support or lack of, alcohol abuse, reckless driving, and sibling rivalry. I loved how Walsh's writing showed us what impact these concerns can have on pre-teen and teens. The title played into the story so well as Lane was always looking down at the floor when talking with family and friends in Harbor Point or busy looking down at her phone to answer the millions of work text messages she received. Ryan, in turn, tended to look down on himself feeling he had not been a hero serving in Afghanistan and he wasn't as good as other people due to where he had come from "the wrong side of the tracks." As both of them grew stronger in their relationship with each other and with God, they could "Just Look Up."
I would have like to have seen a bit stronger spiritual message in the book otherwise I would have given it a 4.5 or 5. But still a very good contemporary romance.
This book focuses on several hard topics and does it well: bullying, teasing, parental support or lack of, alcohol abuse, reckless driving, and sibling rivalry. I loved how Walsh's writing showed us what impact these concerns can have on pre-teen and teens. The title played into the story so well as Lane was always looking down at the floor when talking with family and friends in Harbor Point or busy looking down at her phone to answer the millions of work text messages she received. Ryan, in turn, tended to look down on himself feeling he had not been a hero serving in Afghanistan and he wasn't as good as other people due to where he had come from "the wrong side of the tracks." As both of them grew stronger in their relationship with each other and with God, they could "Just Look Up."
I would have like to have seen a bit stronger spiritual message in the book otherwise I would have given it a 4.5 or 5. But still a very good contemporary romance.
February 25, 2020
*Update for audio book:
I loved this book so much. I had read it a few years ago and then decided to purchase the audio book. I am so glad I did. It was a joy to listen to and I got chills at the end of the story because of the wonderful ending. The narrator did a great job bringing this beautiful story to life.*
Just Look Up was a journey in forgiveness, taking chances, and learning to live life instead of being glued to a phone. I really felt for the main characters, Ryan and Lane. They both had things from their past that impacted the decisions they made in the present and they way they viewed themselves.
Lane, in particular, had trouble letting go of all of the hurts she had experienced as a child and young woman. And, honestly, I couldn’t really blame her! The things this girl went through, the way she was treated, and the lack of understanding and empathy was cruel. At first, I wasn’t sure that I could get past that in the story, yet the author handled and resolved things very nicely, leaving me really enjoying the second half of the book!
I loved the relationship between these two main characters. Their backstory of friendship was sweet and I really enjoyed seeing how things developed between them.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved this book so much. I had read it a few years ago and then decided to purchase the audio book. I am so glad I did. It was a joy to listen to and I got chills at the end of the story because of the wonderful ending. The narrator did a great job bringing this beautiful story to life.*
Just Look Up was a journey in forgiveness, taking chances, and learning to live life instead of being glued to a phone. I really felt for the main characters, Ryan and Lane. They both had things from their past that impacted the decisions they made in the present and they way they viewed themselves.
Lane, in particular, had trouble letting go of all of the hurts she had experienced as a child and young woman. And, honestly, I couldn’t really blame her! The things this girl went through, the way she was treated, and the lack of understanding and empathy was cruel. At first, I wasn’t sure that I could get past that in the story, yet the author handled and resolved things very nicely, leaving me really enjoying the second half of the book!
I loved the relationship between these two main characters. Their backstory of friendship was sweet and I really enjoyed seeing how things developed between them.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 7, 2017
This was a pleasant surprise. When I read the description I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it. I ended up really liking it, A LOT! I think part of it is I related a great deal to Lane. Maybe not in as driven as she was in her career, but in her feelings about “going home.”
Lane was a complicated character who carried a lot of baggage, in her anger and hurt. I’m not going to say she didn’t have reason, but her story is a great reminder of the dangers of unforgiveness in one’s life.
The story was very good. It moved at a good pace. The author did a great job of giving you just enough of the backstory to keep you wondering and reading to find out the whole story.
Ryan was a great leading man. He had his own baggage to deal with, but he kept his focus on what mattered post, his friends. Some of the plot points with his situation were predictable but the author did a great job telling the story.
I hope to read more from this author.
Disclaimer: I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, I was not required to give a review and the opinions here are my own.
Lane was a complicated character who carried a lot of baggage, in her anger and hurt. I’m not going to say she didn’t have reason, but her story is a great reminder of the dangers of unforgiveness in one’s life.
The story was very good. It moved at a good pace. The author did a great job of giving you just enough of the backstory to keep you wondering and reading to find out the whole story.
Ryan was a great leading man. He had his own baggage to deal with, but he kept his focus on what mattered post, his friends. Some of the plot points with his situation were predictable but the author did a great job telling the story.
I hope to read more from this author.
Disclaimer: I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, I was not required to give a review and the opinions here are my own.
July 18, 2017
I was hearing some good things about this book and so I decided that I should pick it up and give it a read too! I'm sure glad I did. This book tackles some important issues of today and I felt like Courtney Walsh did a great job of making everything feel real.
Lane is an interesting character. In the beginning of the book we see Lane as she is now- fully engrossed in her work and locked up tight in herself. She is her own island. As the book progresses and Lane's story begins to fill in, we understand Lane a bit better, even if we don't agree with her choices. Lane lives her life with something to prove. She works hard and is one determined girl. (Determined is a nice word for stubborn. We use it a lot in my house.) Her transformation is gradual and slow but thanks to some persistent people, love really does conquer all.
Ryan is really a hero. Solid, kind and ever so patient. It's interesting to see the difference between Ryan and Lane, both of whom suffered with hurt, heartache and betrayal but because of choices they ended up in very different places. Lane hardened her heart and Ryan opened his up.
My take away feelings from this book? Put down the electronic devices and enjoy the moments you have with the people you love. Forgive. Be kind. Love well.
Content: mention of alcoholism, child neglect and abuse with no details, bullying, Christian Fiction
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Lane is an interesting character. In the beginning of the book we see Lane as she is now- fully engrossed in her work and locked up tight in herself. She is her own island. As the book progresses and Lane's story begins to fill in, we understand Lane a bit better, even if we don't agree with her choices. Lane lives her life with something to prove. She works hard and is one determined girl. (Determined is a nice word for stubborn. We use it a lot in my house.) Her transformation is gradual and slow but thanks to some persistent people, love really does conquer all.
Ryan is really a hero. Solid, kind and ever so patient. It's interesting to see the difference between Ryan and Lane, both of whom suffered with hurt, heartache and betrayal but because of choices they ended up in very different places. Lane hardened her heart and Ryan opened his up.
My take away feelings from this book? Put down the electronic devices and enjoy the moments you have with the people you love. Forgive. Be kind. Love well.
Content: mention of alcoholism, child neglect and abuse with no details, bullying, Christian Fiction
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 5, 2017
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2wBEt6J
Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh is everything that a contemporary romance should be … beautifully conveyed setting on the shores of Lake Michigan, well-drawn lead characters who are appealing and relatable, descriptive narrative that flows easily across the page, and spiritual insight that touches lives.
I love Hallmark movies and couldn’t help but think how perfectly Just Look Up fits their theme, as Lane leaves the high-pressure business world of Chicago when her brother is injured and returns to the small community of Harbor Pointe, Michigan. I was quickly drawn into the story and enjoyed its emotional build as more backstory was revealed. There’s a few moving scenes that even had me tearing up. A great supporting cast of characters adds depth and I really hope this is the beginning of a series.
Lane and Ryan (“Brooks”) are memorable characters, so easy to connect with. With a mom who tried to put a positive spin on her pain, Lane carried emotional scars from her growing up years. “She’d done everything she could to eliminate every trace of the girl she’d been, to transform herself into a businesswoman with an incredible career.” But the result was a sacrificing of personal relationships at the altar of a buried past.
Ryan, whose charm masked deep pain, has the characteristics I look for in a hero – tender, patient, sacrificial, and with a sense of humor. Renovating old cottages was more than a business opportunity to him; rather, “therapy without the stuffy doctor peering at him over horn-rimmed glasses.”
Just Look Up is so relevant in its spiritual insights … Forgiveness and grace. That God’s love is not contingent on our works or worthiness. The need to surrender everything in our lives to God. Spending time on what really matters. Both Lane and Ryan had faith in God, but took on the responsibility for dealing with pain themselves. Maybe, like me, that’s something you can identify with.
Just Look Up has a personal meaning for Courtney Walsh, and I believe it has a message every reader will take to heart.
Look up … from the electronic devices.
Look up … from project deadlines.
Look up … from stress-filled and worrisome situations.
Look up … from whatever is drawing your attention away from all that is around you.
Just Look Up.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh is everything that a contemporary romance should be … beautifully conveyed setting on the shores of Lake Michigan, well-drawn lead characters who are appealing and relatable, descriptive narrative that flows easily across the page, and spiritual insight that touches lives.
I love Hallmark movies and couldn’t help but think how perfectly Just Look Up fits their theme, as Lane leaves the high-pressure business world of Chicago when her brother is injured and returns to the small community of Harbor Pointe, Michigan. I was quickly drawn into the story and enjoyed its emotional build as more backstory was revealed. There’s a few moving scenes that even had me tearing up. A great supporting cast of characters adds depth and I really hope this is the beginning of a series.
Lane and Ryan (“Brooks”) are memorable characters, so easy to connect with. With a mom who tried to put a positive spin on her pain, Lane carried emotional scars from her growing up years. “She’d done everything she could to eliminate every trace of the girl she’d been, to transform herself into a businesswoman with an incredible career.” But the result was a sacrificing of personal relationships at the altar of a buried past.
Ryan, whose charm masked deep pain, has the characteristics I look for in a hero – tender, patient, sacrificial, and with a sense of humor. Renovating old cottages was more than a business opportunity to him; rather, “therapy without the stuffy doctor peering at him over horn-rimmed glasses.”
Just Look Up is so relevant in its spiritual insights … Forgiveness and grace. That God’s love is not contingent on our works or worthiness. The need to surrender everything in our lives to God. Spending time on what really matters. Both Lane and Ryan had faith in God, but took on the responsibility for dealing with pain themselves. Maybe, like me, that’s something you can identify with.
Just Look Up has a personal meaning for Courtney Walsh, and I believe it has a message every reader will take to heart.
Look up … from the electronic devices.
Look up … from project deadlines.
Look up … from stress-filled and worrisome situations.
Look up … from whatever is drawing your attention away from all that is around you.
Just Look Up.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
June 29, 2017
This is the first book by Courtney I have read and while I enjoyed this overall story line this simply wasn't the book for me. The whole concept of "just looking up" and realizing what is important is wonderful. Especially now with all of the crazy things that have our constant attention, look up from your phone, pay attention to someone, acknowledge your surrounds, etc. So I loved that part of the story! I had a difficult time connecting with Lane and really struggled with being captivated by the entire plot. The first part of the book had me hooked and then it just got a bit slow for me. That being said, I am curious to read other books by Courtney so I need to check those out.
Three and a half stars.
"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing for free. All opinions are my own."
Three and a half stars.
"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing for free. All opinions are my own."
June 30, 2018
Just Look Up is both emotionally touching and relevant, with Courtney's balanced and lighthearted storytelling style. The themes in this story are serious but all presented in a personal and heart-to-heart manner. From the importance of noticing the blessings in front of you to recognizing the freedom in choosing forgiveness even when someone else doesn't, this story is a beautiful example of the power of grace.
Lane's character and her endless stress over little things show how even the best intentions (whether for achievement, career, or even family) can distract from important things right in front of you. Lane is blissfully unaware of her inherent worth, too, which made me just want to hug her. And take her out for coffee. (Thankfully she has Ryan Brooks for that). AKA Brooks to those close to him, he's the perfect counterpart to her personality because he knows how to gently draw her out from behind her self-imposed fortress (with a lovely sense of humor!). He shows her that she is loved just as she is, by both him and her family.
The colorful secondary characters all have a hand in Lane and Brooks' relationship or in prodding them to face reality at one time or another. They were a fun part the story... most of the time. I wanted to whomp a couple of them a time or two for hurting Lane or Brooks. Ha!
The thread of romance in this story is of the vest variety, the kind naturally born of friendship (and a years-old camaraderie). Brooks is relentless and unashamed in his pursuit of Lane, and I loved him for it. His subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) flirting was a way to break through Lane's walls, but it was his protectiveness and genuine, selfless care for her that makes him endearing hero material. His journey is one of forgiveness and releasing bitterness, too, which mirrors Lane's in some ways.
This is a story of family and home, of roots and forgiveness and the comfort found when someone accepts you for who you are --- no strings or expectations attached. It is a gentle reminder that you have one shot in life with your family and people you encounter every day, so make the most of it. Embrace the quirks and differences. Bond over the similarities and joys. Choose to forgive. Recognize the blessings in front of you. Choose to love.
Thank you to Tyndale House Publishers and Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Lane's character and her endless stress over little things show how even the best intentions (whether for achievement, career, or even family) can distract from important things right in front of you. Lane is blissfully unaware of her inherent worth, too, which made me just want to hug her. And take her out for coffee. (Thankfully she has Ryan Brooks for that). AKA Brooks to those close to him, he's the perfect counterpart to her personality because he knows how to gently draw her out from behind her self-imposed fortress (with a lovely sense of humor!). He shows her that she is loved just as she is, by both him and her family.
The colorful secondary characters all have a hand in Lane and Brooks' relationship or in prodding them to face reality at one time or another. They were a fun part the story... most of the time. I wanted to whomp a couple of them a time or two for hurting Lane or Brooks. Ha!
The thread of romance in this story is of the vest variety, the kind naturally born of friendship (and a years-old camaraderie). Brooks is relentless and unashamed in his pursuit of Lane, and I loved him for it. His subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) flirting was a way to break through Lane's walls, but it was his protectiveness and genuine, selfless care for her that makes him endearing hero material. His journey is one of forgiveness and releasing bitterness, too, which mirrors Lane's in some ways.
This is a story of family and home, of roots and forgiveness and the comfort found when someone accepts you for who you are --- no strings or expectations attached. It is a gentle reminder that you have one shot in life with your family and people you encounter every day, so make the most of it. Embrace the quirks and differences. Bond over the similarities and joys. Choose to forgive. Recognize the blessings in front of you. Choose to love.
Thank you to Tyndale House Publishers and Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
June 11, 2017
When I first saw the title of this book, my mind immediately got to thinking this was going to be about the need to 'Look Up' and see ourselves the way God see's us. This isn't the direction that Courtney takes us, however I cannot tell you how strongly this subliminal message resonated with me.
One thing I absolutely must do at the end of a book, is read the Author notes. Here I found this phrase '"Just look up!...Look around at everything you are missing!"' How often do we live our lives, buried deep in our work, our phones, our laptops & computers? Do we miss the beauty that surrounds us, the daily interactions within our homes? We need to stop focusing on what doesn't ultimately matter, and cherish what does. Life will pass us by while we focus on the unnecessary. This message feeds all the way through this story, even including some of the minor characters. While the general message is one of career & technology holding us down, we also can recognize that Ryan's Dad has missed his entire life due to Alcoholism. Lindsay lost a fragile relationship with her only sister over a bad choice. Lane, wonderful Lane, lost many years due to a focus on a unforgiveable (to her) hurt and pain, mingled in with a slew of unpleasant childhood experiences. Of course, with God, we are able to do the things we don't feel capable of on our own. His grace can help us make changes in our lives to let go and look up. He can help us move past the hurts & sorrows. He can help us overcome addiction. I am so very grateful for every single message I took away from this beautiful story.
Lane Kelley, is a skillful Interior Designer based out of Chicago. She lives her life with one goal in mind. Success. She will do anything to retain it. That includes sacrificing nights, weekends, vacations, sleep & social life. She has one friend, her loyal assistant Chloe. Her loft apartment is her sanctity. She has the control she craved for so long. However, she is entangled into a corporate world that is so competitive even those within her team after using underhanded means in order to oust her. Lane has had her eye on the Creative Director position, and believes this next pitch will be the one that secures it. The call comes to notify Lane that her brother, Nate, the one member of her family who has been loyal to her, has been seriously injured and is in a coma. Will she drop everything and travel the 3 hours home to Harbor Pointe? A place she so desperately never wants to return to, she hasn't been home in years. This could not have happened at a worse time.
Ryan Brooks, raised on the wrong side of the tracks and despite the abuse of an alcoholic father and abandoned by his mother, was rescued by Lane's family as a teenager. Employed by her father to work in the family store in exchange for food and money for Ryan and his sister Hailey, Ryan slowly became a part of the Kelley Family. Escaping to enlist in the Army, he is now home and putting everything he has into a development of 12 vacation cottages. His hope is that by providing more lodging options to tourists he can give back to the town that has given him so much. When the motorcycle accident throws him and his best friend Nate Kelley into hospital, he encounters the one person that he has loved since the moment he first saw her. Never imaging that he would see Lane again, he is taken right back. Back to those years when his sole focus was to ease those little snippets of her personality that made her shine, and that she rarely showed anyone. I loved getting to know these characters. They are so complex, with every raw emotion jumping right out of the pages.
Courtney Walsh writes with such a depth of insight into each and every single one of her main characters. She masters this skill so well. Nothing is hurried. Everything is just right from the scene descriptions to the thoughts going through the characters minds. I love the shore of Lake Michigan, and Harbor Pointe is the perfect sleepy in winter, crazy busy in summer tourist town. The contrast of Chicago, which is a fun energetic city, was perfect. Two sharply differing worlds set against each other, for me there is only one winner - and that would be Harbor Pointe!
Utterly unpredictable, I could not put this book down. This was the best story to complete on Valentine's Day, and has inspired me to make this day great. To put down the devices, and truly treasure every single moment.
Thank you so much to Tyndale & Netgalley for this complimentary advanced reader copy. Here is my honest review.
One thing I absolutely must do at the end of a book, is read the Author notes. Here I found this phrase '"Just look up!...Look around at everything you are missing!"' How often do we live our lives, buried deep in our work, our phones, our laptops & computers? Do we miss the beauty that surrounds us, the daily interactions within our homes? We need to stop focusing on what doesn't ultimately matter, and cherish what does. Life will pass us by while we focus on the unnecessary. This message feeds all the way through this story, even including some of the minor characters. While the general message is one of career & technology holding us down, we also can recognize that Ryan's Dad has missed his entire life due to Alcoholism. Lindsay lost a fragile relationship with her only sister over a bad choice. Lane, wonderful Lane, lost many years due to a focus on a unforgiveable (to her) hurt and pain, mingled in with a slew of unpleasant childhood experiences. Of course, with God, we are able to do the things we don't feel capable of on our own. His grace can help us make changes in our lives to let go and look up. He can help us move past the hurts & sorrows. He can help us overcome addiction. I am so very grateful for every single message I took away from this beautiful story.
Lane Kelley, is a skillful Interior Designer based out of Chicago. She lives her life with one goal in mind. Success. She will do anything to retain it. That includes sacrificing nights, weekends, vacations, sleep & social life. She has one friend, her loyal assistant Chloe. Her loft apartment is her sanctity. She has the control she craved for so long. However, she is entangled into a corporate world that is so competitive even those within her team after using underhanded means in order to oust her. Lane has had her eye on the Creative Director position, and believes this next pitch will be the one that secures it. The call comes to notify Lane that her brother, Nate, the one member of her family who has been loyal to her, has been seriously injured and is in a coma. Will she drop everything and travel the 3 hours home to Harbor Pointe? A place she so desperately never wants to return to, she hasn't been home in years. This could not have happened at a worse time.
Ryan Brooks, raised on the wrong side of the tracks and despite the abuse of an alcoholic father and abandoned by his mother, was rescued by Lane's family as a teenager. Employed by her father to work in the family store in exchange for food and money for Ryan and his sister Hailey, Ryan slowly became a part of the Kelley Family. Escaping to enlist in the Army, he is now home and putting everything he has into a development of 12 vacation cottages. His hope is that by providing more lodging options to tourists he can give back to the town that has given him so much. When the motorcycle accident throws him and his best friend Nate Kelley into hospital, he encounters the one person that he has loved since the moment he first saw her. Never imaging that he would see Lane again, he is taken right back. Back to those years when his sole focus was to ease those little snippets of her personality that made her shine, and that she rarely showed anyone. I loved getting to know these characters. They are so complex, with every raw emotion jumping right out of the pages.
Courtney Walsh writes with such a depth of insight into each and every single one of her main characters. She masters this skill so well. Nothing is hurried. Everything is just right from the scene descriptions to the thoughts going through the characters minds. I love the shore of Lake Michigan, and Harbor Pointe is the perfect sleepy in winter, crazy busy in summer tourist town. The contrast of Chicago, which is a fun energetic city, was perfect. Two sharply differing worlds set against each other, for me there is only one winner - and that would be Harbor Pointe!
Utterly unpredictable, I could not put this book down. This was the best story to complete on Valentine's Day, and has inspired me to make this day great. To put down the devices, and truly treasure every single moment.
Thank you so much to Tyndale & Netgalley for this complimentary advanced reader copy. Here is my honest review.
October 21, 2017
I requested a review copy of Just Look Up because I’d heard so many good things about it. Surely it couldn’t possibly measure up?
It did.
Lane is an interior designer up for a big promotion at work when her mother calls to say her brother is on life support following a motorcycle accident. She returns home, but is immediately thrown into conflict with everyone in her family (except perhaps her father, who only gets about two lines in the whole novel). The reasons behind this conflict are gradually revealed as the novel progresses
Ryan was also in the motorcycle accident, but escaped with minor injuries. He’s from a bad background, but he’s made something of himself—with the help of the Kelley family, who were surrogate parents for him and his sister throughout his teenage years. He’s always had feelings for Lane, but never felt good enough for her. Now he meets the adult Lane, he realises she has issues, and he might be able to help.
Just Look Up was a great title that worked on many levels.
There was the obvious, that we have to look up to see the world around us, to live. Lane spent much of time looking down at her phone that she missed what was going on around her. And the more subtle, the way Lane consciously or subconsciously looked down on herself.
It seemed to me that looking down was a habit formed early in her teenage years, where she looked down because of her low self-esteem. I could relate to this—and I suspect many grown women can, especially those of us who were bookish teenagers who were never part of the ‘cool’ crowd.
To me, Just Look Up showed the lie that many of us believe in our teenage years.
The lie that we don’t fit in because aren’t good enough. Lane was different to the others in her family—lactose intolerant in a family that made and sold cheese for a living, unattractive and unpopular (or so she thought) in a family that were attractive and popular.
What especially hurt for Lane was that her family perpetuated the lie through their ‘harmless’ name calling (‘Pudge’ is not term of endearment. Ever). The result, I think, was a teenager and adult who never understood how precious she was to God, because she never felt she was precious to her family.
Overall, Just Look Up is a story about how achieving our dreams might not be everything we thought it might be, but the answer might have been in front of us all along. Recommended.
Thanks to Tyndale Books and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
It did.
Lane is an interior designer up for a big promotion at work when her mother calls to say her brother is on life support following a motorcycle accident. She returns home, but is immediately thrown into conflict with everyone in her family (except perhaps her father, who only gets about two lines in the whole novel). The reasons behind this conflict are gradually revealed as the novel progresses
Ryan was also in the motorcycle accident, but escaped with minor injuries. He’s from a bad background, but he’s made something of himself—with the help of the Kelley family, who were surrogate parents for him and his sister throughout his teenage years. He’s always had feelings for Lane, but never felt good enough for her. Now he meets the adult Lane, he realises she has issues, and he might be able to help.
Just Look Up was a great title that worked on many levels.
There was the obvious, that we have to look up to see the world around us, to live. Lane spent much of time looking down at her phone that she missed what was going on around her. And the more subtle, the way Lane consciously or subconsciously looked down on herself.
It seemed to me that looking down was a habit formed early in her teenage years, where she looked down because of her low self-esteem. I could relate to this—and I suspect many grown women can, especially those of us who were bookish teenagers who were never part of the ‘cool’ crowd.
To me, Just Look Up showed the lie that many of us believe in our teenage years.
The lie that we don’t fit in because aren’t good enough. Lane was different to the others in her family—lactose intolerant in a family that made and sold cheese for a living, unattractive and unpopular (or so she thought) in a family that were attractive and popular.
What especially hurt for Lane was that her family perpetuated the lie through their ‘harmless’ name calling (‘Pudge’ is not term of endearment. Ever). The result, I think, was a teenager and adult who never understood how precious she was to God, because she never felt she was precious to her family.
Overall, Just Look Up is a story about how achieving our dreams might not be everything we thought it might be, but the answer might have been in front of us all along. Recommended.
Thanks to Tyndale Books and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
July 11, 2017
Just Look Up by author Courtney Walsh was a story that I think that may resonate with many people. Sometimes there are situations in our past that have so affected us that we let them define us. In this case Lane Kelley is relentless in her work drive and to achieve her dream job promotion. However, before any of that can take place, she receives emergency news from home. Her brother has been in an accident and her family wants her home. At first it may seem a bit callous of her not to want to go home, but she has pretty much written that place off. As Lane puts her job on hold and rushes home to see her brother Nate, the only one that she knew understood her we get to see snippets of her younger years and what caused such a rift between her and her family that everyone in town seems to love so much.
While home, she gets reacquainted with childhood friend Ryan Brooks who has the fondest memories of Lane. Ryan and his sister were practically “adopted” into the Kelley family and that love shown them gave both of them a hope for a better life even when they had to return to their own dysfunctional home. Ryan sees that Lane is tightly wound and he begins to notice just why she may have left home for good for.
So many wonderful, thoughtful insights and lessons were woven throughout this book. I really connected with Lane and her drive to be thin and let her work define her, this story touched on how name calling and how bullying can endure through adulthood. Even what someone may call cute affectionate pet names. When do you need to step back and take a break from work and truly rest was another issue addressed. I liked how the author showed how so much stress can be detrimental to your health. The romance was sweet and I thought that Ryan’s pursuit of Lane was enduringly romantic, even when he was hiding a big, scary secret.
Families are important, work is important, as Lane discovers sometimes you just need to let go and embrace both- faults and all.
I was provided a copy of this book for free from Tyndale Publishers. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
While home, she gets reacquainted with childhood friend Ryan Brooks who has the fondest memories of Lane. Ryan and his sister were practically “adopted” into the Kelley family and that love shown them gave both of them a hope for a better life even when they had to return to their own dysfunctional home. Ryan sees that Lane is tightly wound and he begins to notice just why she may have left home for good for.
So many wonderful, thoughtful insights and lessons were woven throughout this book. I really connected with Lane and her drive to be thin and let her work define her, this story touched on how name calling and how bullying can endure through adulthood. Even what someone may call cute affectionate pet names. When do you need to step back and take a break from work and truly rest was another issue addressed. I liked how the author showed how so much stress can be detrimental to your health. The romance was sweet and I thought that Ryan’s pursuit of Lane was enduringly romantic, even when he was hiding a big, scary secret.
Families are important, work is important, as Lane discovers sometimes you just need to let go and embrace both- faults and all.
I was provided a copy of this book for free from Tyndale Publishers. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
July 17, 2017
2.5 Stars.
I adore this cover and I wanted to love this book, I really did but it just fell flat for me.
As a writer myself I know just how difficult it can be to strike just the right balance between telling and showing, and I am not opposed to a bit more telling than showing, but unfortunately this book just contained too much telling for my personal reading preference. I also would have preferred if there had been a lot less flashbacks, I mean they did add to the story, but I found the sheer number of flashbacks to be a bit excessive.
My heart went out to both Lane and Ryan because of all they'd had to deal with in their lives, I liked Ryan, but for some reason I never felt like I really connected with Lane which made it hard for me to really care about her.
Just Look Up is a beautiful story with a wonderful message, but I'm sorry to say that this book just wasn't for me. I found myself bored with it often and it never really held my attention, I could easily set it down and not feel much of a pull to pick it back up.
I don't think that is necessarily the book's fault, I simply don't think I was in the mood to read contemporary romance at the time.
I know lots of people who have loved this book, and it is an enjoyable story, it simply wasn't for me. So please don't just take my word for it.
I loved this author's novella in the Right Where We Belong collection and I look forward to trying more of her work in the future!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. No review required. The above review is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I adore this cover and I wanted to love this book, I really did but it just fell flat for me.
As a writer myself I know just how difficult it can be to strike just the right balance between telling and showing, and I am not opposed to a bit more telling than showing, but unfortunately this book just contained too much telling for my personal reading preference. I also would have preferred if there had been a lot less flashbacks, I mean they did add to the story, but I found the sheer number of flashbacks to be a bit excessive.
My heart went out to both Lane and Ryan because of all they'd had to deal with in their lives, I liked Ryan, but for some reason I never felt like I really connected with Lane which made it hard for me to really care about her.
Just Look Up is a beautiful story with a wonderful message, but I'm sorry to say that this book just wasn't for me. I found myself bored with it often and it never really held my attention, I could easily set it down and not feel much of a pull to pick it back up.
I don't think that is necessarily the book's fault, I simply don't think I was in the mood to read contemporary romance at the time.
I know lots of people who have loved this book, and it is an enjoyable story, it simply wasn't for me. So please don't just take my word for it.
I loved this author's novella in the Right Where We Belong collection and I look forward to trying more of her work in the future!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. No review required. The above review is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
July 2, 2017
"Just Look Up" by Courtney Walsh is another summer read that I am gushing about! First, I love that Courtney used Michigan in her book. As a Michigander, I just love that and I am a little bias. Second, this book will tug at every heart string you ever through was possible. You'll go from the small town life to the city life and every where in between. Your heart will break, it will repair and break all over again. You feel as though you're in the town with the characters experiencing the highs and lows. This is one of those books that you can't just put on the shelf and call done. You'll often wonder what you would do if you are Ryan and faced with the situation he has been dealt with, especially with his father. And like Lane, can Michigan offer you the life you've always wanted or is NewYork the place where your heart beats? Where you come alive and design the best? Oh, this book will evoke so much emotion and all the feels. I loved the book from the beginning to the end! Walsh fans, this is my favorite of all of her books! She hit this one out of the ball park! I give this book 5/5 stars. It is one of my top 10 books you must read this summer. Make sure you go to the store and pick up your copy. Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing me a complimentary copy. A favorable review was not required.
July 31, 2017
A heartfelt contemporary romance with a lot of depth! A driven career woman gets an urgent call to come home when her closest brother is in a terrible accident. This is a satisfying read that touches on difficult subjects like alcoholism, betrayal, dealing with bitterness and childhood traumas.
The characters were well developed, each with their own set of struggles rooted deeply in their childhoods. I found a lot to relate to in Lane as she finds herself back in her hometown, fighting off her insecurities and coming face to face with people who wounded her; finding the need to continue to prove herself "worthy" by striving so hard in her work. "She had no idea she was loved just the way she was." Her family didn't seem to help much, guilting her and criticizing. No wonder she left! I fell a little in love with Ryan, how he continually extends kindness and friendship to Lane, seeing the best in her, though she doesn't easily reciprocate. He was a positive to her negative. Truly a fixer-upper kind of guy just like his work projects. "He loved finding beauty in what others discarded...a metaphor for his own life." A good example of forgiving just as Christ forgives us.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian contemporary romances with realistic issues. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
The characters were well developed, each with their own set of struggles rooted deeply in their childhoods. I found a lot to relate to in Lane as she finds herself back in her hometown, fighting off her insecurities and coming face to face with people who wounded her; finding the need to continue to prove herself "worthy" by striving so hard in her work. "She had no idea she was loved just the way she was." Her family didn't seem to help much, guilting her and criticizing. No wonder she left! I fell a little in love with Ryan, how he continually extends kindness and friendship to Lane, seeing the best in her, though she doesn't easily reciprocate. He was a positive to her negative. Truly a fixer-upper kind of guy just like his work projects. "He loved finding beauty in what others discarded...a metaphor for his own life." A good example of forgiving just as Christ forgives us.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian contemporary romances with realistic issues. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
September 19, 2017
Full review on Faithfully Bookish
While it's not all that unusual for a story to touch my heart (even burrow down deep and make a home there), it is a rare blessing to be challenged to the point of positive change by fiction. This book has that power. Inside this entertaining, relatable, encouraging story is a simple truth we all know yet often fail to apply...
Lane Kelley is a focused, driven, corporate ladder climbing powerhouse... she's also lonely, ridiculously overworked and underfed. Her hometown memories are overshadowed by years of teasing and heartbreak.
Ryan Brooks is an unassuming, small-town trailblazer. With a little encouragement from the Kelleys, he has pulled himself up by the bootstraps and built a life to be proud of. Ryan is loyal, patient, and hardworking but he also makes time for family and fun.
Just Look Up's subtle messages about family, relationships, and priorities have also inspired me to take a fresh look at how I spend my own time and energy.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
While it's not all that unusual for a story to touch my heart (even burrow down deep and make a home there), it is a rare blessing to be challenged to the point of positive change by fiction. This book has that power. Inside this entertaining, relatable, encouraging story is a simple truth we all know yet often fail to apply...
Lane Kelley is a focused, driven, corporate ladder climbing powerhouse... she's also lonely, ridiculously overworked and underfed. Her hometown memories are overshadowed by years of teasing and heartbreak.
Ryan Brooks is an unassuming, small-town trailblazer. With a little encouragement from the Kelleys, he has pulled himself up by the bootstraps and built a life to be proud of. Ryan is loyal, patient, and hardworking but he also makes time for family and fun.
Just Look Up's subtle messages about family, relationships, and priorities have also inspired me to take a fresh look at how I spend my own time and energy.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 30, 2024
Just Look Up was a slow building, deep emotional contemporary fiction.
I bought and listened to the audiobook which I really enjoyed, and I think I was more invested because I was listening to the audiobook vs reading the book version.
Lane Kelley had a lot of emotional struggles from her younger years, which drew her to be driven and to prove she is the best person for the job. I adored Brooks as the male hero.
This might not be an easy book for all readers, since there is a subtle story line of emotional bullying due to physical appearance/not being part of the popular crowd but though this is a difficult topic, so relevant to what most girls are facing growing up.
The ending was one of my favourite scenes.
I bought and listened to the audiobook which I really enjoyed, and I think I was more invested because I was listening to the audiobook vs reading the book version.
Lane Kelley had a lot of emotional struggles from her younger years, which drew her to be driven and to prove she is the best person for the job. I adored Brooks as the male hero.
This might not be an easy book for all readers, since there is a subtle story line of emotional bullying due to physical appearance/not being part of the popular crowd but though this is a difficult topic, so relevant to what most girls are facing growing up.
The ending was one of my favourite scenes.
March 5, 2021
finished this tonight on the plane ride to orlando, and i really enjoyed this!
the characters in this book were so well written, and really made me root for them as individuals and as a couple. lane really broke my heart with all the bullying she experienced and seeing how that manifested into her adult life.
a very choppy review because i’m writing this from my phone but maybe i’ll refine it when i get home.🤗 long story short, i really recommend this!
the characters in this book were so well written, and really made me root for them as individuals and as a couple. lane really broke my heart with all the bullying she experienced and seeing how that manifested into her adult life.
a very choppy review because i’m writing this from my phone but maybe i’ll refine it when i get home.🤗 long story short, i really recommend this!
September 18, 2023
Okay, I LOVED this book. It’s a cliche big city girl comes back to her home town love story, but the character development is so good. The romance even gave me butterflies at times!! It was the perfect book to read during my vacation. I’ll definitely be checking out more books by this author!
January 4, 2022
What a swoony novel! This the first full length book I've read by Courtney Walsh and I wasn't disappointed! I've been wanting to read more but this author for so long and I'm very glad I made the time for it. Just Look Up took me through such a wide range of emotions from anger and frustration to joy and relief. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series!
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