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Sandy Cove #7
Above All Else
“How am I going to make it through another year of him?” seventeen-year-old Caleb Baron muttered as he pulled out of the driveway and floored the car, leaving screech marks in his tracks. This was the third blow up with his dad that week, and all Caleb could think about was getting through his senior year and getting out of the house for good.
Adopted at birth, Caleb’s relationship with his father has deteriorated into a battle of wills, and Caleb decides to set out on a quest for answers, as he delves into the roots of his past. But will those answers bring him the peace he so desires? Or will he find himself more distraught than ever?
Meanwhile, his sister, Madison, is taking center stage in their family with her upcoming wedding. Her life seems perfect, and their parents are well pleased. With her nursing degree completed and a ring on her finger, she is about to move not only into adulthood, but also to a distant land.
From Caleb’s perspective, Madison has it made. Little does he know that she is about to experience the most challenging year of her life. Is she up to the call God has placed on her and Luke? And when tragedy strikes, will she have the strength to press on?
Through the heartaches and difficulties this brother and sister experience, they must each come to terms with what matters above all else, as they examine their faith and learn to see themselves and their heavenly Father in a new way.
Adopted at birth, Caleb’s relationship with his father has deteriorated into a battle of wills, and Caleb decides to set out on a quest for answers, as he delves into the roots of his past. But will those answers bring him the peace he so desires? Or will he find himself more distraught than ever?
Meanwhile, his sister, Madison, is taking center stage in their family with her upcoming wedding. Her life seems perfect, and their parents are well pleased. With her nursing degree completed and a ring on her finger, she is about to move not only into adulthood, but also to a distant land.
From Caleb’s perspective, Madison has it made. Little does he know that she is about to experience the most challenging year of her life. Is she up to the call God has placed on her and Luke? And when tragedy strikes, will she have the strength to press on?
Through the heartaches and difficulties this brother and sister experience, they must each come to terms with what matters above all else, as they examine their faith and learn to see themselves and their heavenly Father in a new way.
340 pages, ebook
First published December 18, 2016
833 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Rosemary Hines
21 books135 followersRosemary Hines writes contemporary, suspenseful fiction from a Christian worldview. Her characters and their struggles and triumphs reflect life in our 21st century culture in America. Boldly tackling tough subjects such as suicide, abortion, and the ever-increasing efforts of secular society to silence the faith of many, she is known for her sensitive approach and strong messages of hope and redemption. Rosemary taught writing at a secondary level for fifteen years. Her books have been reviewed and recommended at Christian conferences across the United States. Active in her church as a Sunday school teacher and a women's Bible study leader, she and her husband have also served as missionaries in Ukraine, delivering humanitarian relief to orphanages and hospitals. They reside in Southern California where they enjoy spending time with their grown children and grandchildren.
For more information about Rosemary and her books, visit:
http://www.newswire.net/newsroom/pr/7...
www.rosemaryhines.com
https://www.facebook.com/RosemaryHine...
For more information about Rosemary and her books, visit:
http://www.newswire.net/newsroom/pr/7...
www.rosemaryhines.com
https://www.facebook.com/RosemaryHine...
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February 26, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (2/26/2018)! 💝
December 17, 2016
I love the series Sandy Cove by author Rosemary Hines and this one is no different. It was a wonderful, Christian book that had a lot in it. It held your interest because of the different story lines within the book. Once again, Hines does a wonderful job of character development, adding Christianity and a great story line that is so real and true to life.
This book is about the struggles a family has when their teenage son, Caleb, decided it’s time to find his birth father. He’s known his birth mother all along but something is tugging at him to find his father. But this may not be the best thing since his birth father wanted nothing to do with him from the start of the pregnancy. Meanwhile, his sister Madison is planning her wedding. She also has to deal with a past boyfriend that still is in her mind but not in a good way to this day. Can she get over the past in order to start a bright future? The story is about family struggles and the love of God. It’s a wonderful read and I highly recommend it along with all the Sandy Cove stories.
I received a free copy of Above All Else for an honest review.
This book is about the struggles a family has when their teenage son, Caleb, decided it’s time to find his birth father. He’s known his birth mother all along but something is tugging at him to find his father. But this may not be the best thing since his birth father wanted nothing to do with him from the start of the pregnancy. Meanwhile, his sister Madison is planning her wedding. She also has to deal with a past boyfriend that still is in her mind but not in a good way to this day. Can she get over the past in order to start a bright future? The story is about family struggles and the love of God. It’s a wonderful read and I highly recommend it along with all the Sandy Cove stories.
I received a free copy of Above All Else for an honest review.
December 19, 2016
I was given a free copy of Above All Else in exchange for an honest review.
I have read the entire Sandy Cove series so was excited to get the newest installment. We pick up with Madison and Luke engaged and planning a wedding. Caleb is dealing with some teenage boy stuff and the family deals with that plus some other ups and downs... in their usual fashion. I won't give anything away but I always enjoy a trip back to the familiar personalities and real life situations they face. Quick read, enjoyable as always and once again now I'm left waiting for the NEXT installment to see what new things the family is up against.
I have read the entire Sandy Cove series so was excited to get the newest installment. We pick up with Madison and Luke engaged and planning a wedding. Caleb is dealing with some teenage boy stuff and the family deals with that plus some other ups and downs... in their usual fashion. I won't give anything away but I always enjoy a trip back to the familiar personalities and real life situations they face. Quick read, enjoyable as always and once again now I'm left waiting for the NEXT installment to see what new things the family is up against.
July 11, 2023
I started with Book 1 in the Sandy Cove Series and promise I will follow it to the end. Rosemary Hines is one of my favorite authors. Her Sandy Cove Series is full of Blessings, trials and The love of God.
Her books flow seamlessly one to the other. I feel like I know each character as if they were family. This is a heart warming series that is a pleasure to read. I will be waiting for #8. If you are looking for a series..... start at book 1 and see how the characters grow.
This book was gifted to me for an honest review.... and I can honestly say..... I loved it
Her books flow seamlessly one to the other. I feel like I know each character as if they were family. This is a heart warming series that is a pleasure to read. I will be waiting for #8. If you are looking for a series..... start at book 1 and see how the characters grow.
This book was gifted to me for an honest review.... and I can honestly say..... I loved it
May 30, 2019
This book is the one book that spoke straight to my heart at this particular time in my life. We adopted my grandson as a toddler after my daughter passed away from illness. His biologic9al father was never a part of his life ...neve4 wanted to be. Now aftet all the work, tears and joys of raising him is done this ma suddenly wants to be his "Dad". I see so much of what happened in Caleb's life being acted in my son's life. I pray our outcome is even half as good as this. Thank you for such a thought provoking and inspirationsl book. I continue to pray that my son sees rhe love we have always had for him and comes to terms with his life. I rated this as a very sensitive and compelling story of God's love for us. I recommend it to anyone seeling a real look into the lives of Godly people allowing God to lead them through life's problems and life's joys.
This is the one book that spoke straight to my heart at this particular time,in my life.We adopted my grandson as a toddler when our daughter passed from an illness. His biological "Dad" wss never a part of his life...never wanted to be. Now after alll the work, joys, tears etc he suddenly wants to be his Dad. The parallels between Caleb's reactions and my son's are uncanny. I pray that my own story with my sin has as positive a direction as Caleb's. Thank you for such a gut-wrenching look into the heart of the adopted child and thevreminder that God does have a plan. Excellent book. True to life.
This is the one book that spoke straight to my heart at this particular time,in my life.We adopted my grandson as a toddler when our daughter passed from an illness. His biological "Dad" wss never a part of his life...never wanted to be. Now after alll the work, joys, tears etc he suddenly wants to be his Dad. The parallels between Caleb's reactions and my son's are uncanny. I pray that my own story with my sin has as positive a direction as Caleb's. Thank you for such a gut-wrenching look into the heart of the adopted child and thevreminder that God does have a plan. Excellent book. True to life.
June 22, 2020
My rating is so low because of the parts based in China. It's very expensive to bury someone in China and only the very rich or the very poor farmers would have a coffin that's buried most are cremated.
Also just deciding to go being solstice else along to Cuba without talking about the work to get a Visa. Or just casually pulling up Facebook when a VPN is required. Not to mention China has laws on how old you have to be to adopt (and this couple certainly didn't meet that requirement) and they mention it's a private orphanage but then the Dr saying they'll push the medical scans. You just go to the hospital and ask for the scan in China and you'll walk out the door with it an hour or two later it's not like the American system.
I understand that the author has not lived in China but it shouldn't have taken much to fact find these details.
Also just deciding to go being solstice else along to Cuba without talking about the work to get a Visa. Or just casually pulling up Facebook when a VPN is required. Not to mention China has laws on how old you have to be to adopt (and this couple certainly didn't meet that requirement) and they mention it's a private orphanage but then the Dr saying they'll push the medical scans. You just go to the hospital and ask for the scan in China and you'll walk out the door with it an hour or two later it's not like the American system.
I understand that the author has not lived in China but it shouldn't have taken much to fact find these details.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2016
If you've already been to Sandy Cove, then this is a must-read, but if you've never visited before, settle in and get ready to make some new friends. When I read one of the novels in this series,I always feel like I've had a wonderful visit with people I care about. We've watched Madison grow up and now that she's about to be a bride, anxiety and fear have settled around her. Will she be a good wife? At the same time, Caleb is beginning to wonder about his biological father. This novel is enjoyable on the surface, but also asks us to look at deeper questions: What makes a family? How do I discover my purpose and calling? It's a great book that I enjoyed very much.
I was given an advance copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
I was given an advance copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
December 16, 2016
This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review, and I really loved it!
After reading most, if not all, the Sandy Cove series, I feel like I know the characters personally.
This one tells about the bride (Maddie) and groom, (Luke), as well as a troubled time for Caleb. It is well written, descriptive and a real page turner. Part of the story is based in China at an orphanage. The Christian message is lovely throughout.
I guess this is supposed to be the last book in the Sandy Cove series, but I hope there will be more. I, for one, would like to know what happens next.
After reading most, if not all, the Sandy Cove series, I feel like I know the characters personally.
This one tells about the bride (Maddie) and groom, (Luke), as well as a troubled time for Caleb. It is well written, descriptive and a real page turner. Part of the story is based in China at an orphanage. The Christian message is lovely throughout.
I guess this is supposed to be the last book in the Sandy Cove series, but I hope there will be more. I, for one, would like to know what happens next.
September 11, 2018
Not a bad book just not my favorite to read. Maybe it was because this is the seventh in the series but at times it just didn’t make much sense to me. Madison has this huge trial of her faith and in her confidence and then overnight it just changes and she is totally done with a decade of self doubt and feelings of unworthiness. It just feel right because humans are so infrequently actually like that. Pretty good story line and good Christian values but I’m finding that isn’t always my type of story either.
December 21, 2016
This book has been a great read, I have read all of the books in this series and have always wondered what would be happening to each of the characters.
The character development is done so well in these books and I have loved watching how they have all grown and changed.
The books have also challenged me personally with the way I view things and how I react to certain things with my kids. So all in all a great series of books - you won't be disappointed.
The character development is done so well in these books and I have loved watching how they have all grown and changed.
The books have also challenged me personally with the way I view things and how I react to certain things with my kids. So all in all a great series of books - you won't be disappointed.
December 21, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was given a free copy of Above All Else in exchange for an honest review. This is a very inspirational story. I loved the interaction of all the family members. Caleb was adopted as a baby but now in his teens he wants to know his biological father. He also has typical teenage issues with his dad. Maddie is getting married and is wondering if she is worthy. I won't say more to keep from spoiling it. Love love loved it. Great book for adults and teens
May 4, 2017
Above all Else
Interesting story. Madison and Luke were fortunate to have grown up in families with strong Christian faith. Madison still had issues to overcome. Caleb got off track by his desire to know his biological father,which caused friction with his adoptive parents. Luckily his trip to the Chinese orphanage was able to enable to understand the true meaning of being a Dad or father. Definitely gave it 5 stars
Interesting story. Madison and Luke were fortunate to have grown up in families with strong Christian faith. Madison still had issues to overcome. Caleb got off track by his desire to know his biological father,which caused friction with his adoptive parents. Luckily his trip to the Chinese orphanage was able to enable to understand the true meaning of being a Dad or father. Definitely gave it 5 stars
November 16, 2017
If God Be for Us...
This story was well written, had an extraordinary storyline, and was interesting to read. It was easy to put myself into Maddy's shoes, as well as being able to understand Luke's feelings. Caleb's story was also well told even though I felt disappointed in his choices. I enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it to others, especially newlyweds or those planning to marry soon.
This story was well written, had an extraordinary storyline, and was interesting to read. It was easy to put myself into Maddy's shoes, as well as being able to understand Luke's feelings. Caleb's story was also well told even though I felt disappointed in his choices. I enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it to others, especially newlyweds or those planning to marry soon.
January 27, 2018
Above All Else
This book was so interesting that I had trouble putting it down to get some sleep. The orphanage was unchanged an eye opening. Then taking his son opened his eyes in a way that only God can do. I starting reading this last night January 27, 2018 and finished it at 1:30am on January 28. This is one of the best books that I have read in a long time. This Is A Must Read Book. This is my own review. Can't wait for the next one.
This book was so interesting that I had trouble putting it down to get some sleep. The orphanage was unchanged an eye opening. Then taking his son opened his eyes in a way that only God can do. I starting reading this last night January 27, 2018 and finished it at 1:30am on January 28. This is one of the best books that I have read in a long time. This Is A Must Read Book. This is my own review. Can't wait for the next one.
July 17, 2018
And the choices we make
Adoption is a choice of love and life. A life to live, challenges of who we are and who we will become. These are choices for all involved, child siblings, adoptive parents, birth parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and all whose lives are touched by the adopted child. Often times it is a gift that crosses multiple generations. Little do we know the future but many are the blessings, impact, and choices of all lives touched by adoption.
Adoption is a choice of love and life. A life to live, challenges of who we are and who we will become. These are choices for all involved, child siblings, adoptive parents, birth parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and all whose lives are touched by the adopted child. Often times it is a gift that crosses multiple generations. Little do we know the future but many are the blessings, impact, and choices of all lives touched by adoption.
May 5, 2017
Heartfelt, Convicting
I am enthralled by this book! Suspense, romance, emotion, healing, redemption, and hope drew me in - caused me to reevaluate my relationship with my Father, reassured me that I was chosen, and loved beyond imagination!
I recommend this as a 'must read' regardless of one's place in life!
Absolutely awesome!!!
sue
I am enthralled by this book! Suspense, romance, emotion, healing, redemption, and hope drew me in - caused me to reevaluate my relationship with my Father, reassured me that I was chosen, and loved beyond imagination!
I recommend this as a 'must read' regardless of one's place in life!
Absolutely awesome!!!
sue
May 24, 2017
Another great book in this series ! Redemption , forgiveness , realizations that our Heavenly Father is our only perfect father . ..the continuing story of Michelle and Steve , along with young adult children, Madison and Caleb , has it all . You might want to keep those tissues handy for the 7th installment of the Sandy Cove series !
November 16, 2017
Only God!!
Another glimpse into the lives of friends from the pen of one of my favorite authors. Rosemary is right at the top with Karen Kingsbury, Francine Rivers and Jane Austin. This would be a wonderful movie or series using the previous novels from Sandy Cove. Keep up the good work.
Loved every line.
Another glimpse into the lives of friends from the pen of one of my favorite authors. Rosemary is right at the top with Karen Kingsbury, Francine Rivers and Jane Austin. This would be a wonderful movie or series using the previous novels from Sandy Cove. Keep up the good work.
Loved every line.
December 10, 2017
Our the Father
People tend to get caught up in the rules of life. Just because a man "fathers" a child, it does not make him a father. A dad is there for you when you need him. Supporting you and helping you grow into an adult. Biology has nothing to do with being a dad. Our heavenly father is the best dad ever!
People tend to get caught up in the rules of life. Just because a man "fathers" a child, it does not make him a father. A dad is there for you when you need him. Supporting you and helping you grow into an adult. Biology has nothing to do with being a dad. Our heavenly father is the best dad ever!
October 23, 2018
This is the first book in the Sandy Cove Series that I have read. I want to go back and start with book #1 now. The storyline keeps you interested and is true to real life issues. The Christian theme made me take a closer look at my own life issues because it shared a fresh perspective. I plan to read the entire series.
February 1, 2019
It really resonated with me as I too was adopted ( well, twice adopted, since I am adopted into God's family).
Tho I never wanted to meet my biological father, I always wanted to just see a photo of him, but I guess, different adopted children have different feelings.
Anyway, I loved it as usual!!
Tho I never wanted to meet my biological father, I always wanted to just see a photo of him, but I guess, different adopted children have different feelings.
Anyway, I loved it as usual!!
October 21, 2019
Must read
This is another excellent story of the people of Sandy Cove,Oregon. There is just something about this series of stories that fills me with joy. I feel the pain and heartbreak of each family member and rejoice with their happiness I love the way Gods love is entwinedineach book
This is another excellent story of the people of Sandy Cove,Oregon. There is just something about this series of stories that fills me with joy. I feel the pain and heartbreak of each family member and rejoice with their happiness I love the way Gods love is entwinedineach book
June 30, 2020
Awesome read
I feel so full of God's love right now. I feel like this book has opened my eyes to the fact that I need to talk to God more and not just at certain times, but to chat with Him all the time as I would with my earthly father. He's the one who is with me all the time and can guide me through everything. Thanks Rosemary. May God bless you and your writings.
I feel so full of God's love right now. I feel like this book has opened my eyes to the fact that I need to talk to God more and not just at certain times, but to chat with Him all the time as I would with my earthly father. He's the one who is with me all the time and can guide me through everything. Thanks Rosemary. May God bless you and your writings.
July 23, 2020
Compelling
What a wonderful story reminding us that as Christians we have been adopted into the family of God and are His children first. He is our perfect father while as humans we are not nor can we be perfect. He will guide us through this life but only as we get to know and depend on Him. Couldn't put the book down.
What a wonderful story reminding us that as Christians we have been adopted into the family of God and are His children first. He is our perfect father while as humans we are not nor can we be perfect. He will guide us through this life but only as we get to know and depend on Him. Couldn't put the book down.
July 24, 2020
Highly recommended
This is another wonderful story filled with love, forgiveness, and giving of oneself to others and most importantly filled with God’s love throughout. Scripture is woven into all aspects of this book. This is another heartfelt story into the lives of Michelle and Steve, their children, parents and grandparents.
This is another wonderful story filled with love, forgiveness, and giving of oneself to others and most importantly filled with God’s love throughout. Scripture is woven into all aspects of this book. This is another heartfelt story into the lives of Michelle and Steve, their children, parents and grandparents.
August 22, 2023
Above all else, book 7, Sandy cove
Many lessons are in this book ;Caleb, Luke, Madison, Michelle & Steve. Luke & Madison finally tie the knot & he & Maddie start their new life in a Chinese orphanage. Caleb's relationship with his dad is rocky for several reasons. Join the Baron & Johnson family in this heartstring pulling episode 7!
Many lessons are in this book ;Caleb, Luke, Madison, Michelle & Steve. Luke & Madison finally tie the knot & he & Maddie start their new life in a Chinese orphanage. Caleb's relationship with his dad is rocky for several reasons. Join the Baron & Johnson family in this heartstring pulling episode 7!
May 7, 2017
Good enjoyable story, however there were annoying Blank pages in every chapter so parts of story were missing and left to your imagination. Almost was not going to read because of missing pages thought it would be just a one time thing, but continued throughout book.
May 14, 2017
Loved it!
There was so much going on in this book, so much pain and heartache. It really showed how much love God has for us, and how we need to stop and listen for His voice as He tries to show and tell us just how much we mean to Him.
There was so much going on in this book, so much pain and heartache. It really showed how much love God has for us, and how we need to stop and listen for His voice as He tries to show and tell us just how much we mean to Him.
May 22, 2017
Great book!
I was so touched by this book. My father died when I was 10 years old, so I grew up without one, but I ALways depended on My heavenly Father who is ALWays with me. Keep up the good work and I am looking forward to the next booj.
I was so touched by this book. My father died when I was 10 years old, so I grew up without one, but I ALways depended on My heavenly Father who is ALWays with me. Keep up the good work and I am looking forward to the next booj.
November 10, 2017
Heartwarming story
Rosemary Hines always seems to write stories with uplifting, heartwarming themes. She writes about the important things in life: family, love, honesty, dedication.
Rosemary Hines always seems to write stories with uplifting, heartwarming themes. She writes about the important things in life: family, love, honesty, dedication.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews