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Where the Heart Is #2
Capturing Beauty
He's a nature photographer returning to make amends. She's a camera-shy naturalist seeking privacy. Their love for a boy brings them together, but the camera could drive them apart.
Photographer Haven Carlysle is a changed man. Six years earlier, he had run from his tragedy-filled life in Duluth. Now he's back in town to capture the North Shore's beauty ... and to recapture the love of his son. But that means making amends with his ex-girlfriend too. When camera-leery Callie Beaumont steps in to bridge the relationship between Haven and his former family, he's wary, but she's his only hope.
Callie Beaumont is surrounded by beauty. Her parents are local news celebrities. Her sister is a model. And Callie is ... Ordinary. All her life, Callie has longed to work outdoors soaking up God-breathed beauty, and the opportunity is finally on the horizon. But being the liaison between the handsome photographer and his son has thrown her dreams, and her heart, into chaos.
Can Haven capture her heart when she won't let him capture her image? And will his poor choices cost Callie her dream job and him the love of his son?
Photographer Haven Carlysle is a changed man. Six years earlier, he had run from his tragedy-filled life in Duluth. Now he's back in town to capture the North Shore's beauty ... and to recapture the love of his son. But that means making amends with his ex-girlfriend too. When camera-leery Callie Beaumont steps in to bridge the relationship between Haven and his former family, he's wary, but she's his only hope.
Callie Beaumont is surrounded by beauty. Her parents are local news celebrities. Her sister is a model. And Callie is ... Ordinary. All her life, Callie has longed to work outdoors soaking up God-breathed beauty, and the opportunity is finally on the horizon. But being the liaison between the handsome photographer and his son has thrown her dreams, and her heart, into chaos.
Can Haven capture her heart when she won't let him capture her image? And will his poor choices cost Callie her dream job and him the love of his son?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2017
216 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Brenda S. Anderson
34 books398 followersBrenda S. Anderson writes authentic and gritty life-affirming fiction that shows God at work in people’s messy lives. She is a founding member of the award-winning, nontraditional publishing company, The Mosaic Collection. When not writing, she enjoys live sports and theater, walking along the shores of Lake Superior, and sharing hot cocoa with friends and family. She lives near Minneapolis with her newly retired husband and their twin mischievous kitties, Mauer and Morneau.
Readers can learn more about Brenda S. Anderson at www.brendaandersonbooks.com
Readers can learn more about Brenda S. Anderson at www.brendaandersonbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 7, 2017
Capturing Beauty by Brenda Anderson is a wonderful contemporary Christian romance. It is the second book in the Where The Heart series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Brenda Anderson writes novels that go directly to my heart. She draws realistic and lovable characters who face problems that are easy to empathise with. Brenda Anderson has clearly studied mannerisms and behaviours as her characters explode off the page and into life. Eight year old Reece is a delightful mix of a big heart and boyish mood swings. Anyone who has been around children can easily recognise his behaviour. He is a normal young boy - not perfect but perfectly lovable.
The novel explores very real hang ups. Callie, bullied many years earlier has a problem with her image. "Believing that she was anything but ugly had become impossible." Callie sees beauty in everything but herself. Brenda Anderson shows that real beauty has nothing to do with outward appearances. True beauty comes from within and can be seen on faces. The media has distorted our idea of what is a 'perfect' body. A perfect body is the one God has given us. He says we are beautiful and we need to believe Him, not the media. True beauty is a kind heart, reaching out to others.
The theme of beauty continues in nature. Brenda Anderson has painted some wonderful scenes in her reader's minds - breath takingly beautiful sunsets. Her descriptive passages bring scenes to life.
The novel shows that life is what we make it. We can trudge through life or we can stop and make the most of simple things. "True love is eating ice cream together." We need to stop rushing and make memories instead. "You have memories that can live."
There is the theme of control. Too often people try to exert control over others. It takes courage to stand and take back control of one's own life. Brenda Anderson reveals that all that is needed for someone to bloom is love, kindness and encouragement.
We all need God in our lives. Even when we know Him, there are times when we wonder where God is. "Silence answered but that didn't mean that God wasn't there." The best plan for our lives is God's plan. We need to have faith and trust in God.
There is the sensitive theme of alcoholism within Capturing Beauty. Brenda Anderson realistically reveals the daily battle that recovering alcoholics face. They are just one drink away from falling. They need love and support, and a purpose that is greater than the bottle.
Parenting is difficult at times but very rewarding. Brenda Anderson draws the wonderful and heartfelt bond of the love of a father for his son. She shows the sacrificial love required. "I left because I did love you."
Capturing Beauty is a study of love. A love that brings out the best in others. A love that lives out 1 Corinthians:13.
Capturing Beauty Is a beautiful book. There are tender moments, breath taking scenes and beautiful words. It is a book that will lodge itself in your heart. It is a powerful, beautiful read and I loved it.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Brenda Anderson writes novels that go directly to my heart. She draws realistic and lovable characters who face problems that are easy to empathise with. Brenda Anderson has clearly studied mannerisms and behaviours as her characters explode off the page and into life. Eight year old Reece is a delightful mix of a big heart and boyish mood swings. Anyone who has been around children can easily recognise his behaviour. He is a normal young boy - not perfect but perfectly lovable.
The novel explores very real hang ups. Callie, bullied many years earlier has a problem with her image. "Believing that she was anything but ugly had become impossible." Callie sees beauty in everything but herself. Brenda Anderson shows that real beauty has nothing to do with outward appearances. True beauty comes from within and can be seen on faces. The media has distorted our idea of what is a 'perfect' body. A perfect body is the one God has given us. He says we are beautiful and we need to believe Him, not the media. True beauty is a kind heart, reaching out to others.
The theme of beauty continues in nature. Brenda Anderson has painted some wonderful scenes in her reader's minds - breath takingly beautiful sunsets. Her descriptive passages bring scenes to life.
The novel shows that life is what we make it. We can trudge through life or we can stop and make the most of simple things. "True love is eating ice cream together." We need to stop rushing and make memories instead. "You have memories that can live."
There is the theme of control. Too often people try to exert control over others. It takes courage to stand and take back control of one's own life. Brenda Anderson reveals that all that is needed for someone to bloom is love, kindness and encouragement.
We all need God in our lives. Even when we know Him, there are times when we wonder where God is. "Silence answered but that didn't mean that God wasn't there." The best plan for our lives is God's plan. We need to have faith and trust in God.
There is the sensitive theme of alcoholism within Capturing Beauty. Brenda Anderson realistically reveals the daily battle that recovering alcoholics face. They are just one drink away from falling. They need love and support, and a purpose that is greater than the bottle.
Parenting is difficult at times but very rewarding. Brenda Anderson draws the wonderful and heartfelt bond of the love of a father for his son. She shows the sacrificial love required. "I left because I did love you."
Capturing Beauty is a study of love. A love that brings out the best in others. A love that lives out 1 Corinthians:13.
Capturing Beauty Is a beautiful book. There are tender moments, breath taking scenes and beautiful words. It is a book that will lodge itself in your heart. It is a powerful, beautiful read and I loved it.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
June 19, 2017
"Capturing Beauty" was a wonderful reading experience. Haven, a recovering alcoholic, just wants to make a living sharing with others the beauty of God's world with his photography. Callie, a camera-shy member of an over-the-top publicity-seeking family just wants to teach children about the nature that God has created. Their mutual love of a child brings them together in an unexpected, but welcome, way for both of them, but they each have baggage from their respective pasts that rise up to pull them apart.
These characters captured me from the moment I started reading. Their stories were complex, but accessible, and Brenda Anderson's dialogue and descriptive passages left me constantly wanting more. I look forward to reading book 3, "Planting Hope!"
These characters captured me from the moment I started reading. Their stories were complex, but accessible, and Brenda Anderson's dialogue and descriptive passages left me constantly wanting more. I look forward to reading book 3, "Planting Hope!"
February 24, 2021
Love this author!
February 13, 2017
My emotions ran high right through this entire read. Once I started, I couldn't stop, even though my bruised heart begged for respite a time or two. :-) I guess you could say I wear my reader's heart on my sleeve when I connect with characters as real life as Haven and Callie.
She's an interesting mix of burning bright light shadowed by insecurities. An 'ugly duckling' surrounded by a family of swans. She's learned to take the backseat, to sacrifice for the greater good and to believe the lies of her youth. She's a dutiful daughter and an outstanding friend. An exceptional 'auntie' to her best friend's son. She can be smart-mouthed and sweet and funny. Snapping out the most outrageous exclamations that always brought a smile to my lips and kept me scribbling my own Callie-isms for the fun of it.
Haven's wounded but rallying. He's done a lot of stupid things in his life but he's found faith and is moving on. Making amends. Determined to reconnect with his young son despite the obvious reluctance of the boy's mother who will only allow visitations if Callie supervises. An interesting way to develop a romance. And a complicated one. And goodness, but Anderson knows how to weave an artfully complicated plot!
There were times I wanted to throttle a few characters. One in particular got my dander...and my blood pressure up. Gah! The scathing things I yelled at her during the read aren't worth repeating in this review. Like I said, it's complicated.
As much as I love frothing at the mouth while rabidly turning pages, I also love being challenged and convicted by a solid inspirational thread and Capturing Beauty is an amazing testimony of the transforming love of Jesus Christ. It's about human perceptions -- how we feel about ourselves and how we convey how we feel about others. And the power those both have on our lives.
If you like feeling emotionally sucker-punched by a good book -- this one is for you!
My thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of this book.
She's an interesting mix of burning bright light shadowed by insecurities. An 'ugly duckling' surrounded by a family of swans. She's learned to take the backseat, to sacrifice for the greater good and to believe the lies of her youth. She's a dutiful daughter and an outstanding friend. An exceptional 'auntie' to her best friend's son. She can be smart-mouthed and sweet and funny. Snapping out the most outrageous exclamations that always brought a smile to my lips and kept me scribbling my own Callie-isms for the fun of it.
Haven's wounded but rallying. He's done a lot of stupid things in his life but he's found faith and is moving on. Making amends. Determined to reconnect with his young son despite the obvious reluctance of the boy's mother who will only allow visitations if Callie supervises. An interesting way to develop a romance. And a complicated one. And goodness, but Anderson knows how to weave an artfully complicated plot!
There were times I wanted to throttle a few characters. One in particular got my dander...and my blood pressure up. Gah! The scathing things I yelled at her during the read aren't worth repeating in this review. Like I said, it's complicated.
As much as I love frothing at the mouth while rabidly turning pages, I also love being challenged and convicted by a solid inspirational thread and Capturing Beauty is an amazing testimony of the transforming love of Jesus Christ. It's about human perceptions -- how we feel about ourselves and how we convey how we feel about others. And the power those both have on our lives.
If you like feeling emotionally sucker-punched by a good book -- this one is for you!
My thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of this book.
Read
February 8, 2017Capturing Beauty is the second installment from the Where the Heart Is series. I. Loved. This. Book. I felt an instant connection to Callie. I saw myself in her and love the reminder of "Capturing Beauty". There is so many beautiful scenes in this book that I cannot even try to pick a favorite.
This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
100 stars
This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
100 stars
March 6, 2017
This is actually my first read by Brenda Anderson and I was blown away by this beautiful story. A charming read that won my heart over. I am definitely going to be putting all of Brenda's books on my list to read.
This is the second book in this series and can be read as a standalone. I had no problem following along to with this story.
The characters were fun and easy to fall in love with and very believable. The storyline was very well beautifully written with some tender moments that will win your heart over.
If you want a good christian romance story I highly recommend this book. 5 stars.
I received a ARC of this book to give a honest review. thank you.
This is the second book in this series and can be read as a standalone. I had no problem following along to with this story.
The characters were fun and easy to fall in love with and very believable. The storyline was very well beautifully written with some tender moments that will win your heart over.
If you want a good christian romance story I highly recommend this book. 5 stars.
I received a ARC of this book to give a honest review. thank you.
November 14, 2018
I grew up in the outdoors -- had full intents of going into wildlife management -- and tho I didn't, nature was just part of me. So this book about 2 nature nuts -- and the observations they made as they grew to know each other -- Oh, what a delightful book. I just might read it again in awhile.
October 20, 2018
Very enjoyable book
I enjoyed reading about Callie and Haven's story. They were faced with so many problems from their past, but I liked the way they handled everything. Good Read.
I enjoyed reading about Callie and Haven's story. They were faced with so many problems from their past, but I liked the way they handled everything. Good Read.
February 16, 2017
Photographer Haven Carlysle is back in town to capture the Love of his son and the beauty of the North Shore. Six years ago he had run from his tragedy-filled life in Dulutha, but now he's a changed man. In order to gain the love of his son, he must first make amends with his ex-girlfriend. His only hope of bridging the relationship With him and his former family is with camera-leery Callie Beaumont whose parents are local news celebrities and her sister is a model. Callie has longed all her life to work outdoors in God's beauty. Is this her opportunity to finally have her dream job? Can she be the liaison between the handsome photographer and his son without losing her heart? Can Haven capture her heart when she won't let him capture her image? Will his poor choices cost Callie her dream job? Can he win the love of his son?
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
February 6, 2017
While some people love to be the focus of a camera, that was the last thing Callie wanted. The photographer in Haven saw a very different picture than she did, though.
I enjoyed the lighthearted banter in Capturing Beauty, particularly with the games Callie and Reece (and soon Haven) played. I also appreciated the fact that the characters had to face real, and sometimes ugly, issues and attitudes.
Capturing Beauty may just also encourage you to slow down and discover the beauty around you, as Callie’s view of nature captures images we often overlook.
As for the romance, Haven proves to be a true hero despite his struggles, ultimately demonstrating God’s love and perspective.
Capturing Beauty is the second book in the Where the Heart Is series, but it can certainly stand alone as well. If you’re looking for a fun story that will leave you hopeful, you won’t want to miss this one!
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
I enjoyed the lighthearted banter in Capturing Beauty, particularly with the games Callie and Reece (and soon Haven) played. I also appreciated the fact that the characters had to face real, and sometimes ugly, issues and attitudes.
Capturing Beauty may just also encourage you to slow down and discover the beauty around you, as Callie’s view of nature captures images we often overlook.
As for the romance, Haven proves to be a true hero despite his struggles, ultimately demonstrating God’s love and perspective.
Capturing Beauty is the second book in the Where the Heart Is series, but it can certainly stand alone as well. If you’re looking for a fun story that will leave you hopeful, you won’t want to miss this one!
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
May 18, 2017
I know Brenda has several books under her belt by now, but this is the first one that I have read. It really took me a while to get into this book, and I was a bit worried that I wasn't going to like it, but I stuck with it and in the end I really enjoyed the story.
January 19, 2017
A wonderful love story with plenty of twists. Great portrayal of how God works in the lives of the characters. I was left wanting more at the end of this amazing story.
May 27, 2017
This book was awesome! It's so nice to read books without sexual content.I loved how Gods beautiful nature was appreciated and how characters prayed.I will be getting more books from this author!
February 18, 2017
Highly recommend, loved the unique perspective of viewing beauty, particularly God's beauty, through the eyes of the camera. The storyline was a refreshing view of how God can use the same object that brought us hurt and pain to bring healing and wholeness. In this story, we meet Callie who doesn't see the beauty in herself, instead she carries around a feeling of not good enough from her high school years when she was hurt by someone she looked up to, hurt in a way that left her ashamed and lacking in self confidence. Then God brings Haven into her life and through an interesting set of circumstances (Haven trying to reconnect with his son after 6 years of not seeing him) forces them to spend time together. Haven who isn't looking for a relationship sees the true beauty in Callie and being the photography longs to capture her beauty on film. And Haven doesn't understand why Callie is so adamant against having her picture taken. As their relationship grows and Callie shares with Haven the humiliation she has faced in the past from a photographer, Haven respects her wishes and promises not to film her. Yet by the end of the book, we see God bringing healing to Callie's brokenness by the very object that brought her condemnation, the camera. While at the same time, Callie is teaching Haven how to open his eyes and see the true beauty all around him in God's beautiful creation, in unplanned moments of joy. What a beautiful picture of friendship, love, and God's goodness through the people who brings into our lives. So get a copy of this book, and prepare to get caught up in Haven and Callie's story, you will not want to put it down
July 13, 2019
Really good series!
June 22, 2018
This book took me for surprise. For me this book it's a must read. Just beautiful!!
February 15, 2017
I like it! I can so relate to Callie at different points in my life, how she viewed herself. I enjoyed her journey. Brenda does a great job bringing us into the story, capturing our attention and keeping it till the end. I read the first book in this series and look forward to the next. I highly recommend Capturing Beauty - it's an inspiring story of second chances and new perspectives!
February 7, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. It touched my heart in so many ways.
The characters are amazing and broken and spectacular.
Haven has come back & plans to woo his ex wife and get to know his son again. He feels guilty for an accident that caused his son to lose his foot.
Callie doesn't want her picture taken EVER. She doesn't believe that anyone could think she is beautiful. She is smart and fun and loves the outdoors. Something or someone has hurt her.
Amanda is Haven's ex wife and is engaged and doesn't want Haven in her sons life.
Reese is an amazing kid who doesn't feel handicapped and doesn't want anyone to feel sorry for him.
Only Brenda Anderson can combine these characters with a great story and pull on my heartstrings.
I would give this more than 5 stars if I could.
The characters are amazing and broken and spectacular.
Haven has come back & plans to woo his ex wife and get to know his son again. He feels guilty for an accident that caused his son to lose his foot.
Callie doesn't want her picture taken EVER. She doesn't believe that anyone could think she is beautiful. She is smart and fun and loves the outdoors. Something or someone has hurt her.
Amanda is Haven's ex wife and is engaged and doesn't want Haven in her sons life.
Reese is an amazing kid who doesn't feel handicapped and doesn't want anyone to feel sorry for him.
Only Brenda Anderson can combine these characters with a great story and pull on my heartstrings.
I would give this more than 5 stars if I could.
November 6, 2017
This is the 2nd book I have read by Brenda Anderson and I loved it almost as much as the 1st book in this series. I love that Brenda writes about Minnesota. I can really visualize the different places she describes in the book. I love the emotions that are drawn out in each character. She has a talent of touching my heart and giving me a story that I can believe in. God really shows his love in each of Anderson's books. Here is a description from Amazon:
Photographer Haven Carlysle is a changed man. Six years earlier, he had run from his tragedy-filled life in Duluth. Now he's back in town to capture the North Shore's beauty ... and to recapture the love of his son. But that means making amends with his ex-girlfriend too. When camera-leery Callie Beaumont steps in to bridge the relationship between Haven and his former family, he's wary, but she's his only hope.
Callie Beaumont is surrounded by beauty. Her parents are local news celebrities. Her sister is a model. And Callie is ... Ordinary. All her life, Callie has longed to work outdoors soaking up God-breathed beauty, and the opportunity is finally on the horizon. But being the liaison between the handsome photographer and his son has thrown her dreams, and her heart, into chaos.
Can Haven capture her heart when she won't let him capture her image? And will his poor choices cost Callie her dream job and him the love of his son?
Photographer Haven Carlysle is a changed man. Six years earlier, he had run from his tragedy-filled life in Duluth. Now he's back in town to capture the North Shore's beauty ... and to recapture the love of his son. But that means making amends with his ex-girlfriend too. When camera-leery Callie Beaumont steps in to bridge the relationship between Haven and his former family, he's wary, but she's his only hope.
Callie Beaumont is surrounded by beauty. Her parents are local news celebrities. Her sister is a model. And Callie is ... Ordinary. All her life, Callie has longed to work outdoors soaking up God-breathed beauty, and the opportunity is finally on the horizon. But being the liaison between the handsome photographer and his son has thrown her dreams, and her heart, into chaos.
Can Haven capture her heart when she won't let him capture her image? And will his poor choices cost Callie her dream job and him the love of his son?
January 12, 2017
Haven is a father who was an alcoholic so bad he made the wrong choice and permanently disabled his child. The child's mother, Amanda, threw him out of the house. Years later, having becoming a recovered alcoholic, Haven decides to go back to form a relationship with his child. Amanda is not that willing. Callie, her best friend, is trying to change Amanda's mind while using sayings that only Callie and her dad could come up with.
There is more to the story than that but if I continue you would not be interested in reading this book.
Brenda has a way of making the characters in her books come alive. Most of them feel like friends that you can relate to. Some characters make you not like them. But that is what a good author does. She also describes points of interest in the city the story is about. You feel like you are walking down the street.
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have.
There is more to the story than that but if I continue you would not be interested in reading this book.
Brenda has a way of making the characters in her books come alive. Most of them feel like friends that you can relate to. Some characters make you not like them. But that is what a good author does. She also describes points of interest in the city the story is about. You feel like you are walking down the street.
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have.
November 17, 2020
Don't Always Believe What You Hear
Another great book by Brenda S. Anderson. This author knows how to get to the "heart" of her story while capturing her audience. Brenda's writings are works of love and you can feel it in her portrayal of each character. Life doesn't have to conveyed through ugliness nor do reading materials. Just open your heart and mind to feel these characters come to life.
Another great book by Brenda S. Anderson. This author knows how to get to the "heart" of her story while capturing her audience. Brenda's writings are works of love and you can feel it in her portrayal of each character. Life doesn't have to conveyed through ugliness nor do reading materials. Just open your heart and mind to feel these characters come to life.
March 6, 2017
Capturing Beauty is the second in Brenda Anderson’s series Where the Heart is. This book can be read stand alone or after the first book in the series. I love how the author writes about struggles that most readers can relate to. This book was no exception. As a reader, I’m drawn into the story and live it right alongside the characters experiencing it. As always, I love the style of her writing and can’t wait to read the third book in this series.
January 10, 2017
This is a beautiful romance between Haven and Callie.
Both will need to overcome problems in their past to find love.
I loved the story line and, all the characters, and the setting.
I highly recommend Brenda Anderson's latest book.
Both will need to overcome problems in their past to find love.
I loved the story line and, all the characters, and the setting.
I highly recommend Brenda Anderson's latest book.
November 20, 2017
A great story
I love the story of Haven and Callie. It follows with the first book in this series. It touches on how people do not always see beauty as it truly is and how we rarely see ourselves as we reply are. Looking forward to the next book.
I love the story of Haven and Callie. It follows with the first book in this series. It touches on how people do not always see beauty as it truly is and how we rarely see ourselves as we reply are. Looking forward to the next book.
May 8, 2018
I appreciate that even though this is part of a series, it isn't necessary to read a previous book to enjoy this one. A sweet romance that is about much more, including faith, family, forgiveness, and self-image.
August 21, 2020
Beautiful book
A great story of what seems like second chance romance, but is something better. How Haven and Callie fall in love is realistic and precious. And a great story of overcoming the entrapments of the past for the two of them.
A great story of what seems like second chance romance, but is something better. How Haven and Callie fall in love is realistic and precious. And a great story of overcoming the entrapments of the past for the two of them.
October 21, 2017
Haven is a photographer and he meets a beautiful woman who hates to have her picture taken. Can their lives be made picture perfect??
March 11, 2018
Good story, flows well. Highly recommend.
This is a good story, flows well. Many life lessons if you absorb as you read. Highly recommend to all.
This is a good story, flows well. Many life lessons if you absorb as you read. Highly recommend to all.
September 1, 2021
I chose to read this book based on the cover. The couple look like they are lighthearted and fun loving. They are so cute. Unfortunately, my impression of the cover doesn't match up to the amount of angst in this book. It weighed down on me and made the book feel long.
The story is full of Christian themes so if you love Christian lit you'll likely like it. If you aren't a fan, give it a pass because there is a lot. There is an ongoing theme moralizing about judging appearances and it was interesting that even the person who felt like she was above such things learns that she is judging too.
I liked that Callie had her little oddities and was so fun playing games with Reece. She probably could have used some therapy. Not about the games but about her past experience causing havoc in her life. Haven was in a tough spot and worked really hard to overcome his weakness and earn his place in his son's life. I like that he made such drastic changes in himself to do that. However, it felt like a rollercoaster ride with him. Every time something went wrong he was ready to go get drunk. Is Callie going to have to deal with all that the rest of their life? That would be hard for me. Also he had some anger management issues. And Amanda? Well, I'm not going to go there to avoid spoilers. She wasn't my favorite person.
The story deals with alcoholism and the constant battle with it even when you're clean. There is that rollercoaster ride again. Overall, there was too much angst for my taste and I felt like much of the story was on repeat. Perhaps that is how it goes in real life though. I haven't had to deal with the things that created the angst in this story so I wouldn't know.
Possible triggers: alcoholism, physical handicap, infidelity
Sex: implied since people live together but no sex on the page.
Language: no
Violence: Hitting walls
The story is full of Christian themes so if you love Christian lit you'll likely like it. If you aren't a fan, give it a pass because there is a lot. There is an ongoing theme moralizing about judging appearances and it was interesting that even the person who felt like she was above such things learns that she is judging too.
I liked that Callie had her little oddities and was so fun playing games with Reece. She probably could have used some therapy. Not about the games but about her past experience causing havoc in her life. Haven was in a tough spot and worked really hard to overcome his weakness and earn his place in his son's life. I like that he made such drastic changes in himself to do that. However, it felt like a rollercoaster ride with him. Every time something went wrong he was ready to go get drunk. Is Callie going to have to deal with all that the rest of their life? That would be hard for me. Also he had some anger management issues. And Amanda? Well, I'm not going to go there to avoid spoilers. She wasn't my favorite person.
The story deals with alcoholism and the constant battle with it even when you're clean. There is that rollercoaster ride again. Overall, there was too much angst for my taste and I felt like much of the story was on repeat. Perhaps that is how it goes in real life though. I haven't had to deal with the things that created the angst in this story so I wouldn't know.
Possible triggers: alcoholism, physical handicap, infidelity
Sex: implied since people live together but no sex on the page.
Language: no
Violence: Hitting walls
September 25, 2017
Callie Beaumont is the plain one in the family. Her sister is a model, her parents are news anchors on TV. She's the brains behind their business, working indoors when she'd much rather be outside. When Haven is introduced into her life, she finds herself falling for this humble, kind man. But he's a photographer. Camera's and Callie just don't get along. Can she overcome her past, and look toward a future with Haven?
Haven Carlysle has stopped running. He has come back to Duluth, a place he left six years ago after his son had an accident and lost his foot, and then Haven's girlfriend kicked him out. Now he's here and wanting to be a part of his sons life. Callie helps him bridge the gap back to his family, and in her he see's a special woman. Can they work it out, or will his family come between them?
I enjoyed this book a lot more then the first. I loved how she continued on this series with characters from the first book. Reece- Haven's son- was adorable. I loved how he was such a main part of the story. Like the other book, the characters had a lot to deal with, and by the end of the story they'd grown so much. A very sweet story, and I can't wait to read the next one!
Haven Carlysle has stopped running. He has come back to Duluth, a place he left six years ago after his son had an accident and lost his foot, and then Haven's girlfriend kicked him out. Now he's here and wanting to be a part of his sons life. Callie helps him bridge the gap back to his family, and in her he see's a special woman. Can they work it out, or will his family come between them?
I enjoyed this book a lot more then the first. I loved how she continued on this series with characters from the first book. Reece- Haven's son- was adorable. I loved how he was such a main part of the story. Like the other book, the characters had a lot to deal with, and by the end of the story they'd grown so much. A very sweet story, and I can't wait to read the next one!
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