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Blended Blessings #1
A New Beginning
Sometimes love doesn’t work out the first time. Or the second. Now in her third marriage, Angelia is hoping for her happily-ever-after with former pro-football player Darren Holley. But soon after they move into their sprawling mini-mansion, Darren’s new job as a high school football coach in a trophy-hungry Texas town consumes him, leaving Angelia feeling like a single mother to her two children as well as Darren’s twin diva-daughters. Not to mention the drama from Darren’s mother, who can’t get over the fact that her son has married a woman with so much baggage.
When Angelia confides in a few ladies from the local church, their nice, sweet, holy-wife advice may prove ineffective and too burdensome. Should Angelia cut her losses and get out before the ink settles on their marriage certificate, or will she finally learn the true meaning of marriage as she and Darren attempt to blend two very different backgrounds in the face of adversity and nosy church folk?
A New Beginning is the first book in the Blended Blessings series by newcomer CaSandra McLaughin and bestselling author Michelle Stimpson.
When Angelia confides in a few ladies from the local church, their nice, sweet, holy-wife advice may prove ineffective and too burdensome. Should Angelia cut her losses and get out before the ink settles on their marriage certificate, or will she finally learn the true meaning of marriage as she and Darren attempt to blend two very different backgrounds in the face of adversity and nosy church folk?
A New Beginning is the first book in the Blended Blessings series by newcomer CaSandra McLaughin and bestselling author Michelle Stimpson.
- GenresChristian Fiction
156 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2015
55 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Stimpson
104 books691 followersHello, Goodreads community! I'm Michelle Stimpson, and storytelling is my heartbeat. I've found my calling in penning heartwarming women's fiction that offers a seat at the table of family, humor, and hope. As an author, my greatest joy comes from crafting narratives that resonate with anyone seeking to find laughter and light in the pages of a good book. My tagline, 'Read. Love. Repeat.', is a promise of the emotional journey I aim to provide—engaging stories you’ll love and yearn to revisit.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 17, 2025
A New Beginning by Michelle Stimpson and CaSandra McLaughlin (2015)
Blended Blessings #1
156-page Kindle Ebook story pages 9-144
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction, Domestic Fiction, African-American Fiction
Featuring: Blurb, Fictional Small-Town Near Dallas, Texas; Gated Community, Blended Family, Former NFL Player, Coach, Church Folk, Marital Issues, Parenting, New Start Trope, New to Town Trope, Marshall, Texas; Abuse - Off-Camera, Sex - Insinuated and Discussed, Cliffhanger, Excerpt from Through it All Book 2 of the Blended Blessings Series, Discussion Questions for A New Beginning, Bibliography for Michelle Stimpson
Rating as a movie: PG-13/15 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Caught Up in the Rapture" by Anita Baker, "Forever My Lady" by Jodeci, "Kissin' On My Tattoos" by August Alsina, "I Don’t Mind" by Usher, "Run For Cover" by David Sanborn, "Tip Toe" by Tamar Braxton, "Bad" by Michael Jackson, "Pray For Me" by The Mighty Clouds of Joy, "If You're Happy Say Amen" by Douglas Miller
Books and Authors mentioned: The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian, Epistle of James, The Message by Eugene H. Peterson
Memorable Quotes: I decided to go ahead and join in with the kids; they were actually communicating without the drama. And they were enjoying ourselves.
First the girls get dropped off unexpectedly and now this football player is moving in. We’re not Motel 6; we won’t be leaving the light on. Surely this little boy had some family members he could call. There are other coaches on the team that he could have stayed with. Why couldn’t he stay with them?
“You got any chilren’?” she asked. “Yes ma’am,” I stuttered. “I have two children and two stepchildren.” “Chile, are you alright? What’s on your mind?” “Oh, nothing. It’s just a little hot out here.” “Naw, you have four chilren’. You young folks don’t know no better; when you get married, you become one, one in everything. If yo’ husband got a car when you married, it’s yours; if he got a house, it’s yours and when he got chilren’, they yours too. We ’spect men to ‘cept our chilren’ with no problem, but when it come to theirs, we get in a upro’ and don’t have a clue.” “Miss Earlene, I accept them, but they don’t like me,” I defended myself. “Listen at you, chile; don’t you know those chilren’ just testing you? We test God patience every day with our ways. He chastise us and still love us—in spite of what we do—He keep on loving us. What if He looked at us as his stepchilren’?”
“Okay, Momma. Bye.” They waved as Marcy drove away in her Escalade which sounded more like an old Subaru. She needs to hurry up and find number two with that old raggedy Cadillac. The girls approached me in silence. Once they reached the porch, they simply stood as though I was supposed to open the door, like a servant. “A hello would be nice,” I said. Skylar flicked her braids around and asked her sister, “It’s our house, too, right?” Before Tyler could agree, I answered, “No. A house belongs to the people whose names are on the mortgage. That would me and your father. Not you two, not Amber, not Demarcus. Only the people who pay the bills. And if you want to come inside someone else’s house, it’s common courtesy to at least speak to the owner first. So let’s try this again. Hello.” “Hello,” they muttered.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏡🏈🇨🇱
My thoughts: 🔖Page 55 of 156 Chapter 6- MC [Angelia] is on my nerves, she's dishing out just as much if not more than she's getting. So, you want this man to step in for your kids but ignore his own?
🔖87 Chapter 10 - I had hope, but now girl, what are you doing?
🔖114 Chapter 13 - It's okay, there was a chapter that made me consider this being a one-and-done but it quickly improved, unfortunately, the rest aren't on KU.
This story was okay, the drama kicked off from the start but MC was unlikable and the Christian portion came near the end. I was almost going to write this series off but the ending was interesting, so I kinda want to read book 2 but not enough to pay additional funds yet, so we'll see.
Recommend to others: I'm not sure, some people enjoy these types of stories and others don't, it's short, a little messy, and a few parts are poorly written.
Blended Blessings (with CaSandra McLaughlin)
1. A New Beginning (2015)
2. Through It All (2015)
3. Peace of Mind (2015)
Blended Blessings #1
156-page Kindle Ebook story pages 9-144
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction, Domestic Fiction, African-American Fiction
Featuring: Blurb, Fictional Small-Town Near Dallas, Texas; Gated Community, Blended Family, Former NFL Player, Coach, Church Folk, Marital Issues, Parenting, New Start Trope, New to Town Trope, Marshall, Texas; Abuse - Off-Camera, Sex - Insinuated and Discussed, Cliffhanger, Excerpt from Through it All Book 2 of the Blended Blessings Series, Discussion Questions for A New Beginning, Bibliography for Michelle Stimpson
Rating as a movie: PG-13/15 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Caught Up in the Rapture" by Anita Baker, "Forever My Lady" by Jodeci, "Kissin' On My Tattoos" by August Alsina, "I Don’t Mind" by Usher, "Run For Cover" by David Sanborn, "Tip Toe" by Tamar Braxton, "Bad" by Michael Jackson, "Pray For Me" by The Mighty Clouds of Joy, "If You're Happy Say Amen" by Douglas Miller
Books and Authors mentioned: The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian, Epistle of James, The Message by Eugene H. Peterson
Memorable Quotes: I decided to go ahead and join in with the kids; they were actually communicating without the drama. And they were enjoying ourselves.
First the girls get dropped off unexpectedly and now this football player is moving in. We’re not Motel 6; we won’t be leaving the light on. Surely this little boy had some family members he could call. There are other coaches on the team that he could have stayed with. Why couldn’t he stay with them?
“You got any chilren’?” she asked. “Yes ma’am,” I stuttered. “I have two children and two stepchildren.” “Chile, are you alright? What’s on your mind?” “Oh, nothing. It’s just a little hot out here.” “Naw, you have four chilren’. You young folks don’t know no better; when you get married, you become one, one in everything. If yo’ husband got a car when you married, it’s yours; if he got a house, it’s yours and when he got chilren’, they yours too. We ’spect men to ‘cept our chilren’ with no problem, but when it come to theirs, we get in a upro’ and don’t have a clue.” “Miss Earlene, I accept them, but they don’t like me,” I defended myself. “Listen at you, chile; don’t you know those chilren’ just testing you? We test God patience every day with our ways. He chastise us and still love us—in spite of what we do—He keep on loving us. What if He looked at us as his stepchilren’?”
“Okay, Momma. Bye.” They waved as Marcy drove away in her Escalade which sounded more like an old Subaru. She needs to hurry up and find number two with that old raggedy Cadillac. The girls approached me in silence. Once they reached the porch, they simply stood as though I was supposed to open the door, like a servant. “A hello would be nice,” I said. Skylar flicked her braids around and asked her sister, “It’s our house, too, right?” Before Tyler could agree, I answered, “No. A house belongs to the people whose names are on the mortgage. That would me and your father. Not you two, not Amber, not Demarcus. Only the people who pay the bills. And if you want to come inside someone else’s house, it’s common courtesy to at least speak to the owner first. So let’s try this again. Hello.” “Hello,” they muttered.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏡🏈🇨🇱
My thoughts: 🔖Page 55 of 156 Chapter 6- MC [Angelia] is on my nerves, she's dishing out just as much if not more than she's getting. So, you want this man to step in for your kids but ignore his own?
🔖87 Chapter 10 - I had hope, but now girl, what are you doing?
🔖114 Chapter 13 - It's okay, there was a chapter that made me consider this being a one-and-done but it quickly improved, unfortunately, the rest aren't on KU.
This story was okay, the drama kicked off from the start but MC was unlikable and the Christian portion came near the end. I was almost going to write this series off but the ending was interesting, so I kinda want to read book 2 but not enough to pay additional funds yet, so we'll see.
Recommend to others: I'm not sure, some people enjoy these types of stories and others don't, it's short, a little messy, and a few parts are poorly written.
Blended Blessings (with CaSandra McLaughlin)
1. A New Beginning (2015)
2. Through It All (2015)
3. Peace of Mind (2015)
March 9, 2015
A great lesson in trust and confidence in God. We often allow our past experiences dictate our future rather relying on God, which is a lesson Angelia had to learn. Things are not always they way they appear. Michelle Stimpson has once again shown us the value in knowing that in God we live, move and have our being... I truly enjoyed this installment of the series and wait with anticipation of the next one. Comgratulations Michelle Stimpson and CaSandra McLaughlin on a job well done.
April 17, 2015
This is my first time reading any of Michelle Stimpson's or CaSandra McLaughlin's work, but it won't be my last time.
From the beginning to the end Darren's and Angelia's story pulled me in.I couldn't put the book down.I'm so looking forward to reading the next book in the Blended Blessings series.
From the beginning to the end Darren's and Angelia's story pulled me in.I couldn't put the book down.I'm so looking forward to reading the next book in the Blended Blessings series.
June 3, 2015
Great read that touches on some of the highs and lows of new marriage, the struggle of blending familes, dealing with exes, getting back to God and how once you put your hope, faith & trust in Him, you can experience a peace you've never known! The book ended with a twist I never saw coming, can't wait for book 2!!
April 20, 2018
And a baby too?
Blended families is a great book. This is a good read especially if you find your self (blended)!
Faith and love always win no matter what situation you find yourself in.
Blended families is a great book. This is a good read especially if you find your self (blended)!
Faith and love always win no matter what situation you find yourself in.
April 30, 2015
Pretty good
Book 1 was just ok until the end......then it became a page turner. I'm truly looking forward to reading book 2 of this series.
Book 1 was just ok until the end......then it became a page turner. I'm truly looking forward to reading book 2 of this series.
November 22, 2024
A New Beginning (Blended Blessings Book 1 )
This book was inspirational, romantic and family oriented. This couple start their love affair very young Darren got married twice with twin girls . Angela married thrice with 2 children but they try to blend together. Marcy Darrens ex give Angella hard time until her girl were molested by her boyfriend, then Angella and Darren have to make his home his girls also. This story is telling we are people but without Jesus in the mix we cannot do it alone especially with teenagers. Good read you will enjoy
This book was inspirational, romantic and family oriented. This couple start their love affair very young Darren got married twice with twin girls . Angela married thrice with 2 children but they try to blend together. Marcy Darrens ex give Angella hard time until her girl were molested by her boyfriend, then Angella and Darren have to make his home his girls also. This story is telling we are people but without Jesus in the mix we cannot do it alone especially with teenagers. Good read you will enjoy
May 18, 2021
Three stars
I enjoyed this book but I was disappointed that it doesn’t really have a solid conclusion. The next book in the series is necessary. There is a resolution to the primary conflict though so it’s not a cliffhanger. The story line feels a little forced as well. By the end of the story I really cared about the characters though.
I enjoyed this book but I was disappointed that it doesn’t really have a solid conclusion. The next book in the series is necessary. There is a resolution to the primary conflict though so it’s not a cliffhanger. The story line feels a little forced as well. By the end of the story I really cared about the characters though.
February 19, 2026
Great read!!
I downloaded this book and it totally got lost in all my downloads. I’m so glad I kept scrolling for something to read! I couldn’t put it down once I started.
It’s a great reminder of through our trial and tribulations we have to trust God and we can’t get so busy we leave Him out.
I downloaded this book and it totally got lost in all my downloads. I’m so glad I kept scrolling for something to read! I couldn’t put it down once I started.
It’s a great reminder of through our trial and tribulations we have to trust God and we can’t get so busy we leave Him out.
March 18, 2023
It took me a very long time (over a year) to decide to read this novel! So glad I finally decided to try it, the book was well well, and with a good story plot to keep you going back page after page. Cleverly crafted for a bit of mystery too. I peeped the situation early into the novel.
January 9, 2024
Yaasss, but God!
The authors have expressed Proverbs 3:5-6 and used this book of the series, "Blended Blessings" to clarify and exemplify how to rely on God. Anticipating reading the next book.
The authors have expressed Proverbs 3:5-6 and used this book of the series, "Blended Blessings" to clarify and exemplify how to rely on God. Anticipating reading the next book.
January 30, 2024
Short and sweet
This book had enough turns to keep u going but not long enough for my taste. Which is why I'm glad it is a sequence book . on my way to purchase the next. Happy reading everyone
This book had enough turns to keep u going but not long enough for my taste. Which is why I'm glad it is a sequence book . on my way to purchase the next. Happy reading everyone
April 4, 2025
Under God's healing hands...
I thought this book was very very good it's a lot different from what I usually read on here but it was about God it was about family and it was about coming together in times of strife....
I thought this book was very very good it's a lot different from what I usually read on here but it was about God it was about family and it was about coming together in times of strife....
December 9, 2025
Great Book!!
It's a book that lets you know that when hard times come your only answer is to seek God.
But the ending leaves you hanging. And the next book is not free on Kindle.
Overall awesome great!!
It's a book that lets you know that when hard times come your only answer is to seek God.
But the ending leaves you hanging. And the next book is not free on Kindle.
Overall awesome great!!
February 12, 2017
Family
This book is a great read. I feel like I was seeing a blast from the past. I love the way the author express what a family have to go through.
This book is a great read. I feel like I was seeing a blast from the past. I love the way the author express what a family have to go through.
October 28, 2018
Excellent
I loved it and couldn't put it down. I understand the situation because I have been there. Thank God for growth and a better understanding of life.
I loved it and couldn't put it down. I understand the situation because I have been there. Thank God for growth and a better understanding of life.
August 27, 2019
I like the book. Make sure you have faith and you’ll be blessed unmeasurably, but she kept doubting herself. Can’t wait to read book 2.
August 14, 2021
Awesome.....God used you ladies mightily.
March 9, 2022
great read
The realness of the different situations and plot twists kept my interest to the end of the book looking forward to reading book 2
The realness of the different situations and plot twists kept my interest to the end of the book looking forward to reading book 2
April 4, 2015
I Think I See a Movie in the Future!
I haven't read a good fiction book in a while. This book was a great read and worth the purchase. I couldn't put it down and before I knew it, I was finished! I was intrigued that the authors took the time to pay attention to intimate details of each character. They were careful to include a background and setting which allowed for realistic visualization of the whereabouts of the characters at all times. Additionally, I was excited in how the word of God was intertwined throughout the book to counter the challenges faced by the characters. Many of the difficulties they faced could be true to life. I laughed, I cried, I yelled out, and shouted at various times. Most surprising was the inclusion of thought provoking questions and a preview of the next part of the series! Kudos to the authors. You've got a new fan! I'm looking forward to the next book. This review may also be found on my blog - www.iamruthproverbs31.blogspot.com
I haven't read a good fiction book in a while. This book was a great read and worth the purchase. I couldn't put it down and before I knew it, I was finished! I was intrigued that the authors took the time to pay attention to intimate details of each character. They were careful to include a background and setting which allowed for realistic visualization of the whereabouts of the characters at all times. Additionally, I was excited in how the word of God was intertwined throughout the book to counter the challenges faced by the characters. Many of the difficulties they faced could be true to life. I laughed, I cried, I yelled out, and shouted at various times. Most surprising was the inclusion of thought provoking questions and a preview of the next part of the series! Kudos to the authors. You've got a new fan! I'm looking forward to the next book. This review may also be found on my blog - www.iamruthproverbs31.blogspot.com
Read
April 26, 2016A New Beginning is the first book in the Blended Blessings Series. This is the story of Angelia and Darren combining families. Angelia has two children and this is her third marriage, Darren has two children and this is his second marriage. Darren begins a new job as a coach and moves the family into a beautiful house. Angelia is happy about the new house and her marriage, but when Darren’s double trouble twins enter the picture Angelia becomes upset. This is an awesome story about blended families and I truly enjoyed it.
July 14, 2015
Blended
It was a quick read and thought provoking as it relates to how people view their spouses children. Many times we don't want accept the other person's children but want ours to be accepted.
It was a quick read and thought provoking as it relates to how people view their spouses children. Many times we don't want accept the other person's children but want ours to be accepted.
October 2, 2016
Blended Family
This is a very emotional, thought-provoking story about family. An awesome read!!!!! Reinforces lesson that you can't just a book by its cover (as it relates to the characters in the story - not the cover of this book
This is a very emotional, thought-provoking story about family. An awesome read!!!!! Reinforces lesson that you can't just a book by its cover (as it relates to the characters in the story - not the cover of this book
March 11, 2015
This was a great book! The women got on my nerves, which means it was too real! Lol
The message was great!
The message was great!
March 26, 2015
A New Beginning
Angelia and Darren had challenges in their marriage with his and her kids. They both found strength through their renewed faith in God. Very good story.
Angelia and Darren had challenges in their marriage with his and her kids. They both found strength through their renewed faith in God. Very good story.
Read
May 26, 2015This was an excellent page turner on some of the struggles a blended family face. The authors did a fantastic job I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 26, 2015
Page turner
Great book! I couldn't stop reading until I was done. I definitely recommend this book. I'm glad I bought it.
Great book! I couldn't stop reading until I was done. I definitely recommend this book. I'm glad I bought it.
July 26, 2015
A five star quick read!!!!
February 1, 2016
Blended Family
Pretty good,for a family that starts out with problems of combining two families, waiting to read next in series. Ok
Pretty good,for a family that starts out with problems of combining two families, waiting to read next in series. Ok
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews