What do you think?
Rate this book
The Fairfield #2
My Unexpected Hope
After a year of grieving her divorce and living a life permanently stuck on pause, Laila Richardson is finally ready to have her own happy ending. Then a listing for a quaint cottage in another town answers her prayers for a fresh beginning―one that will bring her closer to her new boyfriend, Ben. Unfortunately, in her small town of Fairfield, Georgia, letting go of the past is virtually impossible. No one wants to see her move on, including the man who destroyed her heart to begin with. Chad Richardson has spent years in misery but finally has his life on somewhat stable ground. When he learns his ex-wife is dating, he knows it’s time to go back and fight for the life he abandoned. Bolstered by his newfound sobriety, Chad has every intention of winning back the woman he loves, even if that means facing old demons that are waiting for him to fail. Passions run deep as two souls searching for a second chance find the courage to let go of old patterns. Can they recognize that their dreams are still possible, even when forged from a broken past?
Audio CD
First published June 1, 2017
494 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Tammy L. Gray
20 books838 followersTammy L. Gray lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas, even the erratic weather patterns. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include 2017 RITA award winning, My Hope Next Door, and show her unending quest to write high quality, culturally relevant stories with relatable and flawed characters.
When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy, yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life.
Tammy L. Gray has lots of projects going on. For all the latest info, visit her website at http://tammylgray.com
I'd love to hear from all of you! Come join me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tlgraybooks or twitter @tlgraybooks
When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy, yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life.
Tammy L. Gray has lots of projects going on. For all the latest info, visit her website at http://tammylgray.com
I'd love to hear from all of you! Come join me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tlgraybooks or twitter @tlgraybooks
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
July 14, 2017
This is a great follow up novel to My Hope Next Door. I highly recommend reading that book first. In both books there is a powerful theme of redemption and forgiveness. There is a trio of friends who have promised loyalty to each other since childhood, and they grow into adulthood together with neglectful or dysfunctional families as the result of addiction and substance abuse. Katie and Chad have been best friends and understand the darkness in each other, and Laila is Chad's girlfriend and love of his life. Katie and Chad fall into the cycle of substance abuse, and the first book shows Katie's path out of addiction and into a new life with God as the center. This book continues where that one left off, and tells Chad's story of recovery and his struggle to win Laila back when she starts to make a new life for herself. While there are dark and heavy issues explored, there is a current of hope that emerges as Laila and Chad begin to finally communicate and share long-held secrets. It takes time to build trust again, and I was rooting for them even when they were too discouraged in themselves. Plenty of angst and drama, but also romantic moments and sweet fun interactions as the two soul mates find their way back to each other and themselves despite overwhelming obstacles.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 14, 2020
Addiction and marriage
Good book about a marriage torn apart by addiction. They have been apart two years and divorced. Chad the hero was quite the loser in my opinion at the beginning. He did redeem himself though even though it was shaky there for awhile. Laila had started dating a nice man and was moving on. Chad heard about it and came home to win back his wife. He had been sober for nine months. He ran into his old drug pusher and I was ready to give the book up. They really did love each other and they had known each other since they were five and there's a little violence and some hiccups on the road to recovery and remarriage.I really did enjoy this book and I was glad they were true to each other while they were apart. She did miss her boyfriend but that is all. He never had touched anyone else but her. I was glad to hear that and made me believe in their second chance. There are Christian values in the book but they are not preachy at all. Just an all around good story. Only kissing in the book. It's clean. At least to me. First time I read this author and she kept me engaged.
Good book about a marriage torn apart by addiction. They have been apart two years and divorced. Chad the hero was quite the loser in my opinion at the beginning. He did redeem himself though even though it was shaky there for awhile. Laila had started dating a nice man and was moving on. Chad heard about it and came home to win back his wife. He had been sober for nine months. He ran into his old drug pusher and I was ready to give the book up. They really did love each other and they had known each other since they were five and there's a little violence and some hiccups on the road to recovery and remarriage.I really did enjoy this book and I was glad they were true to each other while they were apart. She did miss her boyfriend but that is all. He never had touched anyone else but her. I was glad to hear that and made me believe in their second chance. There are Christian values in the book but they are not preachy at all. Just an all around good story. Only kissing in the book. It's clean. At least to me. First time I read this author and she kept me engaged.
November 13, 2021
This is a heavy story, but I'm so glad I got to read it.
This follows characters briefly mentioned in My Hope Next Door, Laila and Chad.
Chad's brutal struggle with addiction was hard to read, but the way the people around him supported his recovery was inspiring.
Of course I loved seeing Katie and Asher again as well!
This follows characters briefly mentioned in My Hope Next Door, Laila and Chad.
Chad's brutal struggle with addiction was hard to read, but the way the people around him supported his recovery was inspiring.
Of course I loved seeing Katie and Asher again as well!
March 19, 2022
What an emotional roller coaster!
In this second of the series, it's Chad and Laila's story. Engaging and emotional. A difficult and rewarding journey for both of them.
In this second of the series, it's Chad and Laila's story. Engaging and emotional. A difficult and rewarding journey for both of them.
June 16, 2017
I've never read this author before when someone recommended her to me. I love discovering new authors, so I thought I'd give it a chance. I won't list the synopsis here. You can read it for yourself.
This book is not an easy book to read. It is not a little feel good inspirational story to warm your heart. Although it will warm your heart, it will also break your heart. There is pain aplenty here, pain that comes from just being treated badly and then pain that comes from the choices people make. But it's also a story of redemption. A story of grace. And a story of mercy. God is good. Even in the bad times, times when a person thinks there's no way out, that no one cares. God is always there. Always.
There was a lot of backstory, I believe here, because now that I've read it, I understand there was one that came before. Even though the story was good, it would have been better, I believe, had I read the first book.
* I was given a preview copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. My opinion is entirely my own.
This book is not an easy book to read. It is not a little feel good inspirational story to warm your heart. Although it will warm your heart, it will also break your heart. There is pain aplenty here, pain that comes from just being treated badly and then pain that comes from the choices people make. But it's also a story of redemption. A story of grace. And a story of mercy. God is good. Even in the bad times, times when a person thinks there's no way out, that no one cares. God is always there. Always.
There was a lot of backstory, I believe here, because now that I've read it, I understand there was one that came before. Even though the story was good, it would have been better, I believe, had I read the first book.
* I was given a preview copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. My opinion is entirely my own.
December 29, 2023
The sequel of the Hope Next Door we follow the story of Laila and Chad. Laila divorces her husband Chad for the drug and alcohol abuse he suffers from. When Chad hears that Laila is going on with her life without him Chad comes back to try to get Laila back. But is it to late? I loved the story of Laila and Chad. I like how the author shows what addiction can do to a family and how hard it is to get back that trust. I love Chad journey to trying to stay clean on his own but soon discovers that he can't only with God he can stay clean and be the husband that Laila deserves. I am so glad I discovered Tammy L Gray. Her writing is wonderful and if you haven't tried her yet you really need to. This is a reread for me and I know I will reread this series again in the future. Hope you can discover Tammy L Gray writing for yourselves!!
September 3, 2022
Addiction is one of the main characters of this book. This is a heavy read with addiction woven through every chapter. I appreciated the author’s perspective that addiction is a brain disease, not a weakness of will or character. The other two main characters, the h and H are legacies of addiction in their families of origin.
We follow Layla, our h, as she trudges through her daily grind, divorced from soul mate Chad who is seemingly hopelessly addicted to alcohol and a variety of drugs. She works a low-paying job with little hope for advancement at the local bar but has recently begun a relationship with a divorced single dad dentist she met at a church in a neighboring small town. She’s also put a deposit down on a cottage in that neighboring town so that she can finally remove the shackles of her small town. The hometown folks are not supportive of getting the hell out of there and moving on with a new fellow, to say the least.
Chad, our H, screwed up in some predictably huge ways, being an individual with an addiction who needed to lose everything before getting better. To say he has lost Layla is an understatement. Chad has a lot of amends to make and he’s discovering how ill-equipped he is to make them. He also has a fairly significant financial debt to the local dealer and so has to somehow work through those ramifications.
Much of the story revolves around Chad and Layla finding new footing with each other. There’s a splash of Christianity, but it’s not too evangelical if that’s a turn-off for you. At its heart, this is a story of addiction, not romance. And while the ending is happy, I’ll say it is a HFN, not a HEA.
We follow Layla, our h, as she trudges through her daily grind, divorced from soul mate Chad who is seemingly hopelessly addicted to alcohol and a variety of drugs. She works a low-paying job with little hope for advancement at the local bar but has recently begun a relationship with a divorced single dad dentist she met at a church in a neighboring small town. She’s also put a deposit down on a cottage in that neighboring town so that she can finally remove the shackles of her small town. The hometown folks are not supportive of getting the hell out of there and moving on with a new fellow, to say the least.
Chad, our H, screwed up in some predictably huge ways, being an individual with an addiction who needed to lose everything before getting better. To say he has lost Layla is an understatement. Chad has a lot of amends to make and he’s discovering how ill-equipped he is to make them. He also has a fairly significant financial debt to the local dealer and so has to somehow work through those ramifications.
Much of the story revolves around Chad and Layla finding new footing with each other. There’s a splash of Christianity, but it’s not too evangelical if that’s a turn-off for you. At its heart, this is a story of addiction, not romance. And while the ending is happy, I’ll say it is a HFN, not a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2017
I will tell you right now that this is not an easy read but oh it’s so worth it.
Laila and Chad’s story is powerful, raw, and gripping. I cried (more than once) for each of them individually and for their relationship. There is such a gutwrenching mix of emotion on these pages – agony, confusion, desperation, grief, anger, betrayal, elation, hope, love, and yes plenty of sparks a’flying chemistry.
These emotions run so high and so passionately throughout the story that the romantic tension is also fully charged. In one scene, in the middle of a rather heated discussion, Chad states “Well, then I guess I have nothing to lose”, backs Laila against the wall and kisses her quite soundly. (I may have read that scene more than once. Ahem.) They love each other so deeply – and have for years – that despite the way they’ve hurt each other they also can’t quite walk away. And swoonlicious ‘we-used-to-be-married’ kisses come with a turn-the-heat-up ‘I-know-your-lips-well’ disclaimer, so reading them requires fans, fainting couches, and freezers.
Romance and intense emotions notwithstanding, there is a thread of redemption that shines even brighter as two lost souls find their home. In each other. In life. And in grace.
Bottom Line: My Unexpected Hope is beautiful, emotional, poignant, heart-wrenching, and realistically hope-full. For anyone who has loved someone that struggles with addiction, this book is also healing. Gray gets soul-deep with her characters and their inner battles and the end result is a book that is impossible to put down.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Laila and Chad’s story is powerful, raw, and gripping. I cried (more than once) for each of them individually and for their relationship. There is such a gutwrenching mix of emotion on these pages – agony, confusion, desperation, grief, anger, betrayal, elation, hope, love, and yes plenty of sparks a’flying chemistry.
These emotions run so high and so passionately throughout the story that the romantic tension is also fully charged. In one scene, in the middle of a rather heated discussion, Chad states “Well, then I guess I have nothing to lose”, backs Laila against the wall and kisses her quite soundly. (I may have read that scene more than once. Ahem.) They love each other so deeply – and have for years – that despite the way they’ve hurt each other they also can’t quite walk away. And swoonlicious ‘we-used-to-be-married’ kisses come with a turn-the-heat-up ‘I-know-your-lips-well’ disclaimer, so reading them requires fans, fainting couches, and freezers.
Romance and intense emotions notwithstanding, there is a thread of redemption that shines even brighter as two lost souls find their home. In each other. In life. And in grace.
Bottom Line: My Unexpected Hope is beautiful, emotional, poignant, heart-wrenching, and realistically hope-full. For anyone who has loved someone that struggles with addiction, this book is also healing. Gray gets soul-deep with her characters and their inner battles and the end result is a book that is impossible to put down.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
October 24, 2019
Beautiful love story
This is a second chance love story that kept me on the edge of my seat. In fact I would categorize it as romantic suspense. It shows the pain and heartache of addiction, and how God can redeem a person and situation that seems hopeless! Beautiful and touching!
This is a second chance love story that kept me on the edge of my seat. In fact I would categorize it as romantic suspense. It shows the pain and heartache of addiction, and how God can redeem a person and situation that seems hopeless! Beautiful and touching!
May 30, 2017
Wow! I could not put this book down. It gave me all the feels. Even though Chad had been a jerk for many years, I found myself rooting for him still. I felt like this book portrayed an addict accurately and did not hold anything back. I LOVED the chemistry. It is wonderful when a book can make you feel the spark between the characters without it getting physical. That is my favorite kind of book and Tammy Gray did a beautiful job from beginning to end.
July 14, 2017
My Unexpected Hope is a realistic and enjoyable Christian contemporary novel. Strong characters and tough life situations combine in this story of love, broken marriages, second chances, addiction and recovery, and faith.
Laila is trying to put her life together and move on from her past. She is planing to move and has a new and wonderful boyfriend - embracing anything that puts her far from the small town of Fairfield where she has lived all her life and the hurt of her broken marriage. Chad Richardson knew that this was his last chance to get sober and stay sober. When he learns that Laila is starting to move on he knows it is time to return home and try to save his marriage. But his return home does not go as smoothly as he plans and he will have to give everything he has to start over and convince Laila he is a new man.
My Unexpected Hope is the companion novel to My Hope Next Door. They have crossover storylines but can both be read as standalone novels. I really enjoyed My Hope Next Door, and My Unexpected Hope brings the same mix of relateable, realistic, and flawed characters who are desperate to overcome their mistakes and create a new life for themselves.
I found Laila to be a wonderful character. She is so strong. She has always supported the people she loves, gave Chad so many chances but knew that he needed an ultimatum if he was ever going to get serious about getting sober. Now she is trying to create a new life away from the hurtful memories of the destruction of her marriage and the neglect of her childhood. She also has a new-found faith that is helping her to navigate her new choices and her desire to be stronger about looking after herself as well as those she loves. At times I didn't like Chad all that much. There is no denying his connection with Laila, a bond, history, and chemistry that runs deep, but he tends to be manipulative, even as he struggles to change, to be a new man. But isn't that so realistic of life and human nature? No one is perfect. Laila doesn't want perfection from Chad, she just wants honesty.
This book doesn't pull its punches about the very real nature of addiction and recovery. It addresses the issues of faith and forgiveness in the midst of very real, very hard challenges. It also celebrates new chances, starting over, and the intimacy of marriage.
I enjoyed reading My Unexpected Hope and recommend it for readers who enjoy contemporary novels about romance, marriage, deep personal challenges, and faith.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
Laila is trying to put her life together and move on from her past. She is planing to move and has a new and wonderful boyfriend - embracing anything that puts her far from the small town of Fairfield where she has lived all her life and the hurt of her broken marriage. Chad Richardson knew that this was his last chance to get sober and stay sober. When he learns that Laila is starting to move on he knows it is time to return home and try to save his marriage. But his return home does not go as smoothly as he plans and he will have to give everything he has to start over and convince Laila he is a new man.
My Unexpected Hope is the companion novel to My Hope Next Door. They have crossover storylines but can both be read as standalone novels. I really enjoyed My Hope Next Door, and My Unexpected Hope brings the same mix of relateable, realistic, and flawed characters who are desperate to overcome their mistakes and create a new life for themselves.
I found Laila to be a wonderful character. She is so strong. She has always supported the people she loves, gave Chad so many chances but knew that he needed an ultimatum if he was ever going to get serious about getting sober. Now she is trying to create a new life away from the hurtful memories of the destruction of her marriage and the neglect of her childhood. She also has a new-found faith that is helping her to navigate her new choices and her desire to be stronger about looking after herself as well as those she loves. At times I didn't like Chad all that much. There is no denying his connection with Laila, a bond, history, and chemistry that runs deep, but he tends to be manipulative, even as he struggles to change, to be a new man. But isn't that so realistic of life and human nature? No one is perfect. Laila doesn't want perfection from Chad, she just wants honesty.
This book doesn't pull its punches about the very real nature of addiction and recovery. It addresses the issues of faith and forgiveness in the midst of very real, very hard challenges. It also celebrates new chances, starting over, and the intimacy of marriage.
I enjoyed reading My Unexpected Hope and recommend it for readers who enjoy contemporary novels about romance, marriage, deep personal challenges, and faith.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
June 4, 2017
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Where do I begin? I've been a fan of Mrs. Gray since I read Shattered Rose a few years ago. Part of the draw to her books, for me, is her uncanny ability to be real.
Life is hard. We all have our struggles and issues...even addictions. Tammy didn't sugarcoat any of these things in her writing. She's honest about the troubles Chad and Laila face as Chad tries to overcome his addictions on his own.
We meet Laila and catch a glimpse of Chad in My Hope Next Door. If you haven't read it yet, strongly encourage you to do so! Their heartbreaking story begins in that book.
Without giving away spoilers, the best way to give my opinion is to tell you to read this book. If you know someone who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, read it. If you don't, read it anyway. Chad and Laila's story is a reflection of Christ's love and healing power.
We are nothing without Him. And with Him, he will use us in ways we cannot imagine. Just like He used Laila in an innocent child's life. Just like he used Katie (from MHND) in helping Chad overcome and see the Light. Just like he used Ben, in ways Laila never imagined.
Interested now? Read it, you won't be disappointed.
Where do I begin? I've been a fan of Mrs. Gray since I read Shattered Rose a few years ago. Part of the draw to her books, for me, is her uncanny ability to be real.
Life is hard. We all have our struggles and issues...even addictions. Tammy didn't sugarcoat any of these things in her writing. She's honest about the troubles Chad and Laila face as Chad tries to overcome his addictions on his own.
We meet Laila and catch a glimpse of Chad in My Hope Next Door. If you haven't read it yet, strongly encourage you to do so! Their heartbreaking story begins in that book.
Without giving away spoilers, the best way to give my opinion is to tell you to read this book. If you know someone who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, read it. If you don't, read it anyway. Chad and Laila's story is a reflection of Christ's love and healing power.
We are nothing without Him. And with Him, he will use us in ways we cannot imagine. Just like He used Laila in an innocent child's life. Just like he used Katie (from MHND) in helping Chad overcome and see the Light. Just like he used Ben, in ways Laila never imagined.
Interested now? Read it, you won't be disappointed.
July 12, 2017
This is not an easy story to read, but oh so worth it! Because Laila and Chad's journey is fraught with pain and hurt. And lots of it. Much like their best friend Katie's story (My Hope Next Door, which I loved!), they've both made a few (or several) wrong choices and the consequences are gut-wrenching for them. But these two characters could not be in more capable hands than Ms. Gray's because she excels in filling characters' difficult trajectories with bits of hope. So don't let the fear of hard scare you away!
I admit to not quite being sure I liked Laila in book one, but I was intrigued by her. She's one tough cookie, this lady! :) Watching as she struggles to figure out how lovable she truly is and to be able to forgive herself, as well as Chad, is a beautiful redemption. It's a hard road to get there, but once she arrives...ah my heart! It broke so many times during this story, but by the final pages it was mended whole again. And Chad. So many times I wanted to shake him! But as he grew stronger in his faith walk, so, too, did my appreciation for him. Neither he nor Laila have it easy, but they refused to give in completely and became wonderful examples of hope!
The title of the book truly describes what happens during the story. For all the hard and yucky things these characters have to endure, their friends, and ultimately their Father above, refuse to let them surrender! And hope is reborn again and again, much like our real lives. That's what I love most about Ms. Gray's stories, I think. The rawness of the emotions felt, the very real heartbreak that exists and is so easily related to. The layers upon layers in the characters, who never seem to fit into just one box of personality, precisely how we human beings are. We're complicated! And her characters show it. She writes about serious things, things we've either experienced or possibly know someone who has. She takes her readers to difficult places, yet never lets us forget that love never gives up. That grace and mercy and forgiveness are actually possible, no matter how impossible they may seem!
And she ends it all with hope of the good yet to come in the characters lives long after the final pages are closed. The reader only has to trust where she intends the journey to go. And it's worth it, friends. Believe me. :)
**I received a complimentary copy from the author via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
I admit to not quite being sure I liked Laila in book one, but I was intrigued by her. She's one tough cookie, this lady! :) Watching as she struggles to figure out how lovable she truly is and to be able to forgive herself, as well as Chad, is a beautiful redemption. It's a hard road to get there, but once she arrives...ah my heart! It broke so many times during this story, but by the final pages it was mended whole again. And Chad. So many times I wanted to shake him! But as he grew stronger in his faith walk, so, too, did my appreciation for him. Neither he nor Laila have it easy, but they refused to give in completely and became wonderful examples of hope!
The title of the book truly describes what happens during the story. For all the hard and yucky things these characters have to endure, their friends, and ultimately their Father above, refuse to let them surrender! And hope is reborn again and again, much like our real lives. That's what I love most about Ms. Gray's stories, I think. The rawness of the emotions felt, the very real heartbreak that exists and is so easily related to. The layers upon layers in the characters, who never seem to fit into just one box of personality, precisely how we human beings are. We're complicated! And her characters show it. She writes about serious things, things we've either experienced or possibly know someone who has. She takes her readers to difficult places, yet never lets us forget that love never gives up. That grace and mercy and forgiveness are actually possible, no matter how impossible they may seem!
And she ends it all with hope of the good yet to come in the characters lives long after the final pages are closed. The reader only has to trust where she intends the journey to go. And it's worth it, friends. Believe me. :)
**I received a complimentary copy from the author via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2018
A powerful and gritty second chance love story. Phew! This book deals with some heavy topics and Gray did an amazing job of sucking this reader into the emotional dysfunction of two lost souls who didn't stand a chance, given their childhood backgrounds. But they are adults now and ready to take back their lives. It's not easy, not always comfortable to read but having the courage to face the past so they can face the future - together -- makes for an inspiring read.
*Please note: some mild language
**An Unexpected Hope follows My Hope Next Door though I couldn't find any indication that this is a series. More like a sequel. There were some elements at the beginning of this book that led me to believe I was missing part of the story up to that point so I did some digging and discovered I was right. Katie's story comes first and while I never felt lost reading this one, I did feel like I was missing some important details in the connections and relationships Laila and Chad had with key friends as well as the town dynamics.
*Please note: some mild language
**An Unexpected Hope follows My Hope Next Door though I couldn't find any indication that this is a series. More like a sequel. There were some elements at the beginning of this book that led me to believe I was missing part of the story up to that point so I did some digging and discovered I was right. Katie's story comes first and while I never felt lost reading this one, I did feel like I was missing some important details in the connections and relationships Laila and Chad had with key friends as well as the town dynamics.
August 9, 2017
My Musings
What an outstanding book. A was pulled in from the first page and remained holes until the last. Great characters and a fantastic plot. So glad I found this amazing series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
What an outstanding book. A was pulled in from the first page and remained holes until the last. Great characters and a fantastic plot. So glad I found this amazing series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
June 1, 2017
netgalley
excellent well developed read. I really liked this book
excellent well developed read. I really liked this book
July 31, 2017
Wow! Sometimes a book can really settle into your soul and bring out all kinds of emotions. This one did that for me. This book deals with the hero, Chad who has an addiction to alcohol. He has been an addict almost since his first drink. His wife, Laila who has been a loving and supportive wife until his almost overdose, had enough. She filed for divorce. This book is about recovery, forgiveness, and reconciliation. There is also a bit of suspense too. This author is a favorite of mine. She does an excellent job of pulling me into the pages right there with the characters. I feel their pain. I feel their loss. I feel their longing for more. I feel their love. I'm always a huge fan for the under dog. I love to cheer them on. There is victory, or can be. It's never too late to reclaim the years the locusts have eaten. This book was an inspiration to me and I loved every single page. I highly recommend this book and I do pray there is more to come in this series.
*I was given a copy of this book via netgalley by the publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review.
*I was given a copy of this book via netgalley by the publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review.
September 9, 2017
Full review on Faithfully Bookish http://wp.me/p7ngfE-1ec
I often use the phrase “beauty from ashes” to describe stories that illustrate God’s restorative grace in action yet “beauty from flaming ruins” seems more appropriate here. The depth of pain and destruction from living in a culture of addiction and abuse are difficult for those of us who have not experienced it to comprehend.
This story is filled with authentically flawed characters, complex situations, and tangled emotions. If you like your books fluffy, neat, and tidy this one might not be for you but if you’re like me and crave stories that will challenge your thinking and raise your level of compassion, don’t miss My Unexpected Hope.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
I often use the phrase “beauty from ashes” to describe stories that illustrate God’s restorative grace in action yet “beauty from flaming ruins” seems more appropriate here. The depth of pain and destruction from living in a culture of addiction and abuse are difficult for those of us who have not experienced it to comprehend.
This story is filled with authentically flawed characters, complex situations, and tangled emotions. If you like your books fluffy, neat, and tidy this one might not be for you but if you’re like me and crave stories that will challenge your thinking and raise your level of compassion, don’t miss My Unexpected Hope.
I requested the opportunity to read this book through the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 2, 2017
*I received a free ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my opinion in any way.*
My Rating - 4
To begin with, I could not put the book down once I picked it up and thus ended up starting and finishing it up in 4 hours straight!
The book starts with describing the life of Laila which is monotonous, working in the bar, meeting the same people because she lives in the town of Fairfield where everyone seems to have their nose stuck up in other people's businesses.
However, unknown to the people of Fairfield she has a boyfriend named Ben. Until Ben one day turns up at her workplace and the whole town finds out!
Chad had been a jerk for many years but is currently stable and sober! When he learns his wife (too be precise - ex-wife) has moved on and found a new life he returns back to his home town to win back his wife and return to a life he abandoned.
I am not one for second chances especially once involving addicts!
That said I still could not help rooting for Chad!
I immediately took liking to the characters (even Chad - I still can't believe it).
You can actually feel the emotions the characters go through and it's heart wrenching.
Chad's guilt! Laila's exhaustion! Ben's insecurities! everything was portrayed beutifully and more importantly in a very lucid language.
What did I love ?
The relationships not just between the main characters but also the other smaller one's.
1. SIERRA - I just loved that girl and everything related to her was heartfelt.
2. Laila and Joe's conversations - Amazing writing style - credits to the author
3. This book doesn't hold back! Mind you! It describes the life and problems of an addict with so much accuracy you might just have to close your eyes and take a deep breathe even while reading!
4. Chad's insecurities and the way they're described was just so amazing and that's what led to me rooting for Chad! through the book.
5. COOPER - Ah! you can't ever forget him! Amazing character and definitely well - written.
6. The Twist - The plot twists! Well, though you're kind of expecting them but they do get you!
7. The new Laila - the assertive one where she voices her mind and what she feels!
8. Her confrontation with Sierra's mom - so emotional! so amazing!
9. Lastly Chad and Laila's past - Those small excerpts were so wonderfully written that they held me through the book and I was pinning for more of those "good times".
Why not 5 stars ?
There were times when I wanted to keep the book aside because the parts got a little too obvious or I felt like the story turning towards that happy ever after.
Mainly I think it was due Laila being a bit too easily forgiving her mother as well as Chad in the beginning however later after Laila's character development that just abruptly changes. (I liked the new Laila)
Throughout the book the plot had been nicely woven secrets and truths revealed at perfect timings made the book gripping !
P.S Would definitely read another book by the author!
My Rating - 4
To begin with, I could not put the book down once I picked it up and thus ended up starting and finishing it up in 4 hours straight!
The book starts with describing the life of Laila which is monotonous, working in the bar, meeting the same people because she lives in the town of Fairfield where everyone seems to have their nose stuck up in other people's businesses.
However, unknown to the people of Fairfield she has a boyfriend named Ben. Until Ben one day turns up at her workplace and the whole town finds out!
Chad had been a jerk for many years but is currently stable and sober! When he learns his wife (too be precise - ex-wife) has moved on and found a new life he returns back to his home town to win back his wife and return to a life he abandoned.
I am not one for second chances especially once involving addicts!
That said I still could not help rooting for Chad!
I immediately took liking to the characters (even Chad - I still can't believe it).
You can actually feel the emotions the characters go through and it's heart wrenching.
Chad's guilt! Laila's exhaustion! Ben's insecurities! everything was portrayed beutifully and more importantly in a very lucid language.
What did I love ?
The relationships not just between the main characters but also the other smaller one's.
1. SIERRA - I just loved that girl and everything related to her was heartfelt.
2. Laila and Joe's conversations - Amazing writing style - credits to the author
3. This book doesn't hold back! Mind you! It describes the life and problems of an addict with so much accuracy you might just have to close your eyes and take a deep breathe even while reading!
4. Chad's insecurities and the way they're described was just so amazing and that's what led to me rooting for Chad! through the book.
5. COOPER - Ah! you can't ever forget him! Amazing character and definitely well - written.
6. The Twist - The plot twists! Well, though you're kind of expecting them but they do get you!
7. The new Laila - the assertive one where she voices her mind and what she feels!
8. Her confrontation with Sierra's mom - so emotional! so amazing!
9. Lastly Chad and Laila's past - Those small excerpts were so wonderfully written that they held me through the book and I was pinning for more of those "good times".
Why not 5 stars ?
There were times when I wanted to keep the book aside because the parts got a little too obvious or I felt like the story turning towards that happy ever after.
Mainly I think it was due Laila being a bit too easily forgiving her mother as well as Chad in the beginning however later after Laila's character development that just abruptly changes. (I liked the new Laila)
Throughout the book the plot had been nicely woven secrets and truths revealed at perfect timings made the book gripping !
P.S Would definitely read another book by the author!
June 22, 2017
Chad, Laila et al are about as messed-up a bunch of friends as you'll find, all raised (barely) in highly-dysfunctional homes. Having previously read My Hope Next Door, I questioned at the outset whether Tammy Gray could make me care about any of them. (Particularly Cooper, who's come a long, long way in this book.)
Thanks be to God, I don't have any first or secondhand knowledge of addictions like the ones portrayed in the book, but I do know something about the difficulty in overcoming habitual sins and creating new starts, which is the heart of My Unexpected Hope.
This is by no means a lighthearted romance though there are a few lighter moments and just enough tender memories between Chad and Laila to keep the story from becoming too dark.
By the last quarter of the book, I was highly invested in Chad's battle for sobriety and his reunion with Laila, just as the author introduced enough twists to leave me frustrated when I had to step away from my Kindle and tend to my duties.
Well-written and compelling!
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
Thanks be to God, I don't have any first or secondhand knowledge of addictions like the ones portrayed in the book, but I do know something about the difficulty in overcoming habitual sins and creating new starts, which is the heart of My Unexpected Hope.
This is by no means a lighthearted romance though there are a few lighter moments and just enough tender memories between Chad and Laila to keep the story from becoming too dark.
By the last quarter of the book, I was highly invested in Chad's battle for sobriety and his reunion with Laila, just as the author introduced enough twists to leave me frustrated when I had to step away from my Kindle and tend to my duties.
Well-written and compelling!
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 27, 2017
I'm just blown away. I have been anxiously awaiting Chad and Laila's story ever since reading My Hope Next Door. My Unexpected Hope certainly did not disappoint. The reality of it shook me and carried me through such a range of emotions. At church this morning I heard of a 28 year old girl who had come to last Wednesday night's service and gone forward, then was found dead the next day from an overdose. This resonated with me. One of my own granddaughters lived through much of the same reality. Her life is now filled with light and she and her husband have two beautiful children and a living relationship with the Lord. Reading this book was so realistic and even painful -- seeing the terrible pain and torment that addiction causes, not only for the individual but for all those who dare to love them. And, ultimately, the freedom that is only found in HIM. This was an excruciating and beautiful love story.
Also as much as Cooper was a thorn in my side in Katie's story, I'm hoping that we may yet be reading his own story of love and redemption.
Thank you, Tammy L. Gray. You never disappoint.
I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review (and can't wait till the actual book and audiobook is released so I can share it with my daughters and granddaughters).
Also as much as Cooper was a thorn in my side in Katie's story, I'm hoping that we may yet be reading his own story of love and redemption.
Thank you, Tammy L. Gray. You never disappoint.
I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review (and can't wait till the actual book and audiobook is released so I can share it with my daughters and granddaughters).
October 28, 2025
This is book 2 in the duology and I think it was even better than the first one.
This book is not your typical Christian fiction, it is raw, the characters are very flawed, it deals with heavy themes such as addiction. It is emotional and gut-wrenching but through all the struggles you see God moving. You see His compassion and grace. You see how God places people in their lives to be His instruments and share the Gospel message. You see His faithfulness and redemption. It was such a beautiful book so many emotions were felt while reading it right until the last page.
I have read many books by this author, and she is another one that I plan on reading everything she has written.
This book is not your typical Christian fiction, it is raw, the characters are very flawed, it deals with heavy themes such as addiction. It is emotional and gut-wrenching but through all the struggles you see God moving. You see His compassion and grace. You see how God places people in their lives to be His instruments and share the Gospel message. You see His faithfulness and redemption. It was such a beautiful book so many emotions were felt while reading it right until the last page.
I have read many books by this author, and she is another one that I plan on reading everything she has written.
June 28, 2017
4+ Stars
While this novel is hard to put down and grips you, this is not a feel good, inspirational novel. It is hard hitting, with real problems and struggles; it is honest and fresh, and it is worth the read.
Gray has once again crafted a story that engages, that stirs, and that reads not like a fairtytale, but as if these are living breathing people you might encounter. Characters who are broken, and all too imperfect, but looking to find their way. I love the journey Gray takes us on as they work through their issues, move into faith and learn more about themselves and others along the way.
While this novel is hard to put down and grips you, this is not a feel good, inspirational novel. It is hard hitting, with real problems and struggles; it is honest and fresh, and it is worth the read.
Gray has once again crafted a story that engages, that stirs, and that reads not like a fairtytale, but as if these are living breathing people you might encounter. Characters who are broken, and all too imperfect, but looking to find their way. I love the journey Gray takes us on as they work through their issues, move into faith and learn more about themselves and others along the way.
November 8, 2018
My Unexpected Hope - PG13
Triggers: alcoholism addiction, domestic violence
Violence: domestic violence
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: none, but alluded to.
I love to read books by TL Gray. I love the roller coaster ride with the highs of such happiness and lows of total despair. This book is a little more gritty than I am used to by Ms. Gray, but it is very well done and shows hope for a way out of a terrible situation. Really enjoyed it!
Triggers: alcoholism addiction, domestic violence
Violence: domestic violence
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: none, but alluded to.
I love to read books by TL Gray. I love the roller coaster ride with the highs of such happiness and lows of total despair. This book is a little more gritty than I am used to by Ms. Gray, but it is very well done and shows hope for a way out of a terrible situation. Really enjoyed it!
June 28, 2017
‘“How did you find your way back?’ His words were weak, a whisper. ‘I woke up one day and had lost everything. My life had no value. I had no value. And then this wonderful man showed me that I was priceless, a child of the King, and loved. So, when I feel lost or afraid—which I still do, sometimes—I cling to my new identity now. I refuse to believe the lie.” Chad stared into the sky, his shirt damp, rain clinging to his cheeks. ‘I feel worthless. All the time.”’
We all have those times that we feel like a failure. This is so much worse. Chad Richardson has not only destroyed his life by choosing substances over everything but, he has trampled upon everyone, most of all his wife Laila.
After a string nasty relapses, Chad leaves town leaving chaos in his wake. He has a secret that makes running seem like the only option. He finds the willpower to get clean and wants to have a triumphant return after he receives his one year sobriety chip but, a call in the middle of the night leaves him questioning his plan. What he wants more than anything is to win back the heart and trust of his now ex-wife (due to a non-contested divorce) but, he may already be too late.
Laila Richardson wants desperately to just move on. Move on from the wreckage that was her marriage to her high school sweetheart Chad, move out of the town she was born and raised in, and finally move on with a new man. Why can’t she have the fairytale ending? She has the man and the plan, even the cute little cottage. She thinks she is right on track when, a bombshell shows back up on her front porch after years without so much as a word.
I won’t spoil the book for you but, man this is an awesome book! Picking up a few months after “My Hope Next Door” left off, you see Laila in the best place she has been in a long time. She is on the road to mending a broken relationship with her childhood best friend, Katie (the main character from My Hope Next Door). Through this relationship she is seeing that she can’t change Chad. Chad must make the decision to change himself. This takes a huge weight off her shoulders. However, it still doesn’t fill the hole in her heart.
Chad’s life has drastically changed in the last nine months. He has gotten sober, got a job, kept the job, and started building a life outside of the drug world. Chad is a living testament to all the struggles of those faced with a life of addiction. However, his struggles are only just beginning when he stands face-to-face with Laila on what was once “their” front porch.
“My Unexpected Hope” is so much more than a love story. Tammy L. Gray weaves a life-like epic that will have you riding a full range roller-coaster of emotions throughout. Trust is so easy to lose but, so hard to win back. Can Chad regain the trust of Laila and ultimately rebuild the marriage he let fall apart? Can Laila see past years of hurt and broken promises from the one who vowed to cherish her above all else? Read “My Unexpected Hope” by Tammy L. Gray to find out.
**Note: I did receive an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
We all have those times that we feel like a failure. This is so much worse. Chad Richardson has not only destroyed his life by choosing substances over everything but, he has trampled upon everyone, most of all his wife Laila.
After a string nasty relapses, Chad leaves town leaving chaos in his wake. He has a secret that makes running seem like the only option. He finds the willpower to get clean and wants to have a triumphant return after he receives his one year sobriety chip but, a call in the middle of the night leaves him questioning his plan. What he wants more than anything is to win back the heart and trust of his now ex-wife (due to a non-contested divorce) but, he may already be too late.
Laila Richardson wants desperately to just move on. Move on from the wreckage that was her marriage to her high school sweetheart Chad, move out of the town she was born and raised in, and finally move on with a new man. Why can’t she have the fairytale ending? She has the man and the plan, even the cute little cottage. She thinks she is right on track when, a bombshell shows back up on her front porch after years without so much as a word.
I won’t spoil the book for you but, man this is an awesome book! Picking up a few months after “My Hope Next Door” left off, you see Laila in the best place she has been in a long time. She is on the road to mending a broken relationship with her childhood best friend, Katie (the main character from My Hope Next Door). Through this relationship she is seeing that she can’t change Chad. Chad must make the decision to change himself. This takes a huge weight off her shoulders. However, it still doesn’t fill the hole in her heart.
Chad’s life has drastically changed in the last nine months. He has gotten sober, got a job, kept the job, and started building a life outside of the drug world. Chad is a living testament to all the struggles of those faced with a life of addiction. However, his struggles are only just beginning when he stands face-to-face with Laila on what was once “their” front porch.
“My Unexpected Hope” is so much more than a love story. Tammy L. Gray weaves a life-like epic that will have you riding a full range roller-coaster of emotions throughout. Trust is so easy to lose but, so hard to win back. Can Chad regain the trust of Laila and ultimately rebuild the marriage he let fall apart? Can Laila see past years of hurt and broken promises from the one who vowed to cherish her above all else? Read “My Unexpected Hope” by Tammy L. Gray to find out.
**Note: I did receive an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 29, 2022
Review can be seen here.
Wow! I felt for these characters so much, much more than I expected to. There were quite a few difficult situations addressed throughout - the constant fight of trying to overcome an addiction, friends and family who are addicted, and the heartache these things bring. Laila thinks she is ready to move on from her past and start over, but is she really? I felt so much for Laila (and cried with Chad at one point). I did not want to like Chad but I just couldn’t help myself, after getting to know him more I was cheering for him to be happy. I was pleased that he appeared to be getting on the right track and when he struggled I cried with him or yelled at him to be strong. His struggles were dealt with honest and openly and felt real. Nothing was sugar-coated. I could feel how much he loved Laila and his struggle between wanting her and wanting the best for her. The secondary characters helped (and forced) Laila and Chad to deal with their emotions, actions, thoughts and faith. Cooper might have had his own issues but he was a true friend to Chad and his support might just end up costing him everything. God can and will use us in ways that we cannot picture, this was shown in many different aspects throughout, such as the way he used Laila in a little girl’s life, the way he used Katie helping Chad, and the way he used Ben in Laila’s life. I especially enjoyed the flashbacks to the teenage years. I do wish there had been more focus given to the times that the characters turned to God for help. Chad and Laila’s story is wonderful example of Christ’s love and His healing power. I was very pleased with the ending.
Wow! I felt for these characters so much, much more than I expected to. There were quite a few difficult situations addressed throughout - the constant fight of trying to overcome an addiction, friends and family who are addicted, and the heartache these things bring. Laila thinks she is ready to move on from her past and start over, but is she really? I felt so much for Laila (and cried with Chad at one point). I did not want to like Chad but I just couldn’t help myself, after getting to know him more I was cheering for him to be happy. I was pleased that he appeared to be getting on the right track and when he struggled I cried with him or yelled at him to be strong. His struggles were dealt with honest and openly and felt real. Nothing was sugar-coated. I could feel how much he loved Laila and his struggle between wanting her and wanting the best for her. The secondary characters helped (and forced) Laila and Chad to deal with their emotions, actions, thoughts and faith. Cooper might have had his own issues but he was a true friend to Chad and his support might just end up costing him everything. God can and will use us in ways that we cannot picture, this was shown in many different aspects throughout, such as the way he used Laila in a little girl’s life, the way he used Katie helping Chad, and the way he used Ben in Laila’s life. I especially enjoyed the flashbacks to the teenage years. I do wish there had been more focus given to the times that the characters turned to God for help. Chad and Laila’s story is wonderful example of Christ’s love and His healing power. I was very pleased with the ending.
March 2, 2022
I went back and forth with this book, enjoying the reality of it, and hating the messages it told. It was good in so many ways, but the romanticizing addiction and holding the marriage up as if it were valid after a divorce was really demoralizing and such a terrible message. People that are addicts without a long term walk with God, you can't throw in a sudden change of moralistic change at the end and expect everything to be ok. I liked some of the ways it was portrayed, but it was so badly done with the issue and pushing the permanence of marriage viewpoint with Chad not accepting the divorce as valid nor taking responsibility for killing his marriage, except in a little tiny couple of paragraphs. If it had been the message throughout, of him accepting the responsibility, admitting the marriage was dead, it would have been an amazing book to watch on their journey.
December 6, 2017
I enjoyed this, but never felt quite as invested as I did in Katie and Asher's story. Guess I never warmed to Chad that much and it was more his story than Leila's. I think I'd have enjoyed this more if Leila had moved on with someone else.
July 26, 2017
A very real look at how addictions can affect all types of relationships. I found myself really rooting for Chad. Just a warning - this book will suck you in and you won't want to put it down!
December 18, 2018
My Unexpected Hope: Four out of five stars!
“…she’d built a prison with walls of familiarity and steel doors of fear.”
Laila Richardson is looking to move on from her drug addict, alcoholic ex-husband Chad, from her small-town Fairfield, from her broken family, and from her ache filled past to a new beginning in the next town over, to her new relationship with Ben, and to a worry-free life. However, moving on isn’t as easy as she hopes it to be when no one, including her ex-husband, wants her to.
Chad Richardson, on the road of recovery from drugs and alcohol, has his mind on one thing: getting his ex-wife Laila to love him again. But his realizes his time is running out when he hears she is dating; and at this startling news, he makes the decision to give his all to fight for her love, even if it means battling with scars and open wounds.
Laila and Chad, both hurt and broken, attempt to create second chances for themselves and attempt to look past the consequences their decisions brought upon them.
This story lands its reader in a difficult moment in a two people’s lives where the pangs of addiction, loneliness, regret, and hope are highly present, and it is felt in each chapter. There isn’t an immediate dramatic presence to the book as the first novel had, My Hope Next Door (check out review!), but it has more of a steady build-up to the plot and climax, which allows the main characters to compliment the other with grace and humor. And if you are looking for a follow-up with Katie from the first novel you will get a good bit of time with her!
This Novel is like a teeter tot of Self-Efficacy. Does Chad have strong enough Self-Efficacy to keep on the road of recovery; or will seeing Katie drug free and strong boost his Self-Efficacy? Will Laila’s Self-Efficacy weaken because of her family’s past or because of Chad’s return? The idea Self-Efficacy is laced throughout the entire novel, but I will stop here with the Psychological talk because some of you are probably a click away from exiting.
With all this said, as a reader of this novel you will have the chance to experience what some divorced couples —not only of those who are divorced but of those who have ended friendships and relationships—go through: the memories of the good, the tears of the bad times, the phantom ache of loss, and the stomach clutching pain of laughter, and the wistful smiles of hope.
P.S The audio was a great addition!
Goodness and Love,
Octavia D. Mason
“…she’d built a prison with walls of familiarity and steel doors of fear.”
Laila Richardson is looking to move on from her drug addict, alcoholic ex-husband Chad, from her small-town Fairfield, from her broken family, and from her ache filled past to a new beginning in the next town over, to her new relationship with Ben, and to a worry-free life. However, moving on isn’t as easy as she hopes it to be when no one, including her ex-husband, wants her to.
Chad Richardson, on the road of recovery from drugs and alcohol, has his mind on one thing: getting his ex-wife Laila to love him again. But his realizes his time is running out when he hears she is dating; and at this startling news, he makes the decision to give his all to fight for her love, even if it means battling with scars and open wounds.
Laila and Chad, both hurt and broken, attempt to create second chances for themselves and attempt to look past the consequences their decisions brought upon them.
This story lands its reader in a difficult moment in a two people’s lives where the pangs of addiction, loneliness, regret, and hope are highly present, and it is felt in each chapter. There isn’t an immediate dramatic presence to the book as the first novel had, My Hope Next Door (check out review!), but it has more of a steady build-up to the plot and climax, which allows the main characters to compliment the other with grace and humor. And if you are looking for a follow-up with Katie from the first novel you will get a good bit of time with her!
This Novel is like a teeter tot of Self-Efficacy. Does Chad have strong enough Self-Efficacy to keep on the road of recovery; or will seeing Katie drug free and strong boost his Self-Efficacy? Will Laila’s Self-Efficacy weaken because of her family’s past or because of Chad’s return? The idea Self-Efficacy is laced throughout the entire novel, but I will stop here with the Psychological talk because some of you are probably a click away from exiting.
With all this said, as a reader of this novel you will have the chance to experience what some divorced couples —not only of those who are divorced but of those who have ended friendships and relationships—go through: the memories of the good, the tears of the bad times, the phantom ache of loss, and the stomach clutching pain of laughter, and the wistful smiles of hope.
P.S The audio was a great addition!
Goodness and Love,
Octavia D. Mason
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews