What do you think?
Rate this book
Librarian Note: Alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B00U6T57US.
Three dire circumstances. Three desperate prayers. One miracle to save them all.
Callie Stillman is drawn to the evasive girl who’s befriended her granddaughter, but the last time Callie tried to help a child, her efforts backfired. Memories of the tiny coffin still haunt her.
Samantha and Iris Evans should be worried about homework, not whether they can pool enough cash to survive another week of caring for an infant while evading the authorities.
Steve Evans wants a second chance at fatherhood, but his children are missing. And no one seems to want to help the former addict who deserted his family.
For Steve to regain the relationship he abandoned, for his girls to receive the care they deserve, Callie must surrender her fear and rely on God to work the miracle they all need.
Three dire circumstances. Three desperate prayers. One miracle to save them all.
Callie Stillman is drawn to the evasive girl who’s befriended her granddaughter, but the last time Callie tried to help a child, her efforts backfired. Memories of the tiny coffin still haunt her.
Samantha and Iris Evans should be worried about homework, not whether they can pool enough cash to survive another week of caring for an infant while evading the authorities.
Steve Evans wants a second chance at fatherhood, but his children are missing. And no one seems to want to help the former addict who deserted his family.
For Steve to regain the relationship he abandoned, for his girls to receive the care they deserve, Callie must surrender her fear and rely on God to work the miracle they all need.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2012
1211 people are currently reading
1403 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Srock
44 books299 followersSmall-town Oklahoma and the friendships they produce are embedded in Sharon Srock’s heart. After spending her first fifteen years on the move, living in fourteen homes and attending thirteen schools, she landed in a tiny central Oklahoma community and made it her own. As someone who’s been blessed to be a part of the same hometown church for more than five decades, Sharon writes stories of hope built from her own unique perspective—stories that demonstrate a sisterhood formed not by blood but by heart, where ordinary women are able to do extraordinary things thanks to the friends who surround them and the faith that pulls them through. Sharon still lives in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma, with her husband and three very large dogs. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, cook, and travel. One of these days, she’s going to figure out how to do all three at the same time.
Sign up for Sharon's newsletter
Visit Sharon’s website: www.sharonsrock.com..
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SharonSrock/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Please visit her AMAZON page to find current info on her books: http://www.amazon.com/Sharon-Srock/e/...
Sign up for Sharon's newsletter
Visit Sharon’s website: www.sharonsrock.com..
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SharonSrock/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Please visit her AMAZON page to find current info on her books: http://www.amazon.com/Sharon-Srock/e/...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
December 3, 2019
Wow! I just wrote a long review and before I put the last dot on it, a website error occurred and it disappeared. Teach me to put the reviews in a document first before I put them in a review!
So since it's after 2am, all I will say is, this is a book about Callie, a woman nearly paralyzed with fear after testifying in court regarding the life of a child, and it ending tragically. Now God is directing her to look into the life of a sweet, sad, withdrawn 11 year old girl in her Sunday School class, and she's terrified to go where He's leading.
It's also about two sisters left alone for the last two years after their own set of tragedies, 17 year old Samantha, and 11 year old Iris, and Samantha's infant baby daughter Bobby.
It's about an ex-druggie father whose life journey through Christ has been irrevocably reversed, who has also been looking for the family he abandoned 10 years ago.
This is a story of hardship, torn lives being rescued, immense love, the generosity of four special sisters-in-Christ, forgiveness, healing, and last, but oh so not least, turning to God to watch the miraculous happen.
I can recommend this to anyone looking to feel good and even shed a few tears of joy. Romance seekers, not so much. But still a good read!
So since it's after 2am, all I will say is, this is a book about Callie, a woman nearly paralyzed with fear after testifying in court regarding the life of a child, and it ending tragically. Now God is directing her to look into the life of a sweet, sad, withdrawn 11 year old girl in her Sunday School class, and she's terrified to go where He's leading.
It's also about two sisters left alone for the last two years after their own set of tragedies, 17 year old Samantha, and 11 year old Iris, and Samantha's infant baby daughter Bobby.
It's about an ex-druggie father whose life journey through Christ has been irrevocably reversed, who has also been looking for the family he abandoned 10 years ago.
This is a story of hardship, torn lives being rescued, immense love, the generosity of four special sisters-in-Christ, forgiveness, healing, and last, but oh so not least, turning to God to watch the miraculous happen.
I can recommend this to anyone looking to feel good and even shed a few tears of joy. Romance seekers, not so much. But still a good read!
December 25, 2017
This one one of the books I went in with low expectations and was blown away by how good it was. In fact, I've put a lot of this authors books on my wishlist. Sometimes, books you get for free end up being gems.
First off, this isn't a romance book. Callie is married, and none of the other characters have a romance. Now, I like romance books, but I get tired of them. After all, life isn't all about romance. There are a couple of references to the married couple being affectionate, and I think there was one marital intimacy reference, but it felt like just a natural part of the story and nothing other then a light kisses were written.
I loved the message of this book because it came out naturally in the story. This wasn't a sermon book; this was a woman who doesn't want to do what God is calling to her because it could hurt her. I like that kind of honesty. I also appreciate that she did the right thing even when it was hard.
This book also had some very sweet kids in it. I get tired of bratty or mischievous kids in stories. These kids were sweet responsible but still acted their age. They weren't perfect.
Overall, I like this book and highly recommend it for those who are looking for a well-written book, a story without romance, or just a story with a powerful message.
First off, this isn't a romance book. Callie is married, and none of the other characters have a romance. Now, I like romance books, but I get tired of them. After all, life isn't all about romance. There are a couple of references to the married couple being affectionate, and I think there was one marital intimacy reference, but it felt like just a natural part of the story and nothing other then a light kisses were written.
I loved the message of this book because it came out naturally in the story. This wasn't a sermon book; this was a woman who doesn't want to do what God is calling to her because it could hurt her. I like that kind of honesty. I also appreciate that she did the right thing even when it was hard.
This book also had some very sweet kids in it. I get tired of bratty or mischievous kids in stories. These kids were sweet responsible but still acted their age. They weren't perfect.
Overall, I like this book and highly recommend it for those who are looking for a well-written book, a story without romance, or just a story with a powerful message.
June 16, 2013
Callie Stillman's compassionate heart results in concern for her granddaughter's friend, Iris, an 11-year-old girl who has begun attending her Sunday school class. Iris appears withdrawn and shy, and Callie's worries about the child's home life rise to the surface. Callie's husband and friends in her bible study group are worried about Callie's involvement after her painful experience regarding a young child in the recent past. As Callie questions Iris about her family she uncovers a heart-wrenching story of loss in the child's life. Iris, her 17-year-old sister and her baby have been running from the authorities for 18 months since their mother's accidental death. Their father, a former drug addict who had abandoned them ten years earlier, is frantically trying to find his children. Callie feels God leading her to help these children. Her discoveries are alarming and cause for further investigation and assistance.
This debut novel by Sharon Srock is a deeply inspiring and descriptive story of loss, faith, trust and forgiveness. Her characters are portrayed with great definition and detail. There are multiple underlying themes in this well-written novel, each developed and brought to light with credibility and compassion. The author presents this inspirational story of struggle and resultant faith through various circumstances and activities that evoke deep emotions. This debut novel is very well written and filled with emotional drama.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was supplied by the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received.
This debut novel by Sharon Srock is a deeply inspiring and descriptive story of loss, faith, trust and forgiveness. Her characters are portrayed with great definition and detail. There are multiple underlying themes in this well-written novel, each developed and brought to light with credibility and compassion. The author presents this inspirational story of struggle and resultant faith through various circumstances and activities that evoke deep emotions. This debut novel is very well written and filled with emotional drama.
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was supplied by the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received.
October 9, 2012
For me, a book is all about the characters, and the folks of Garfield, Oklahoma, don't disappoint. From Callie's husband, the protective and godly Benton, to her quirky companions, the characters feel like old friends. But the one who captured my heart is the precocious Iris, a sweet preteen girl hiding a secret. Just like Callie can't resist Iris--no matter how hard she tries--I couldn't resist Iris' charms, either. When I finished Callie, I couldn't wait for my next visit to Garfield, Oklahoma.
December 21, 2012
I had the privilege of finding a new author, Sharon Srock, and her debut book, Callie. I have to admit, I entered multiple contests, hoping to win this book because reading the blurb on the back, I thought I would love it. And I was right!
When I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about the characters and wondering how the scenarios would all play out. I found whatever chance I could to sit and read and finally finished it this morning, when I probably should have been doing other things instead!
Callie is the beginning of a series. Ms. Srock is very clever and set up a website dedicated to this fictional town and her fictional characters, the Women of Valley View. I would encourage you all to go check out her website and get a chance to meet the characters before you even open the first book. http://www.womenofvalleyview.blogspot... She has favorite recipes, devotionals, and much more.
Callie was a terrific read. It’s great for a variety of readers. Those who like a little mystery (but not the scary kind), those who love books that take you into the minds of the characters through multiple points of view, and those who love a great romance as Callie and her husband Benton definitely have that angle covered. I was transported into the lives of Callie, her husband Benton, Iris, Sam, and Steve, and even to a degree, Terri, who is the main character for the next book in the series. I love how Ms. Srock interwove the lives of each of her characters while still keeping their thoughts, feelings, and personal journeys separate, the way life really should be.
I found myself welling up with tears frequently while reading the book. The tenderness, compassion, and Christ love that the group of friends showered on Iris and Sam may have been “fiction,” but I have been privileged enough on earth to see it play out in real life in various ways, so to relive those memories was precious.
And the journey to forgiveness the characters faced held so many deep truths. Learning to forgive yourself (carrying false guilt or owning up to past mistakes) or learning to forgive others who are honestly repentant looks very similar. Not wanting to use someone else by accepting the gift they offer while not feeling forgiveness yet was a very profound statement that got me thinking about my own personal life. How many times have I withheld forgiveness from someone else because I didn’t want to use them and what they were offering? But a gift given with strings attached isn’t truly a gift. A gift given freely may be the source used to open up the lines of communication so real forgiveness can occur. She brings you back to this truth by reminding us of the gift that God gave so freely by offering His Son, Jesus, on the cross.
I absolutely loved Callie and am recommending it to all my friends to read. Whether you usually gravitate toward books with a little more mystery or suspense or just love a good ole’ romance, I think all readers alike will fall in love with these characters. I can’t wait to read the next book, Terri, and find out what else is happening in the lives of the Women of Valley View. I don’t think we have to wait too long.
When I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about the characters and wondering how the scenarios would all play out. I found whatever chance I could to sit and read and finally finished it this morning, when I probably should have been doing other things instead!
Callie is the beginning of a series. Ms. Srock is very clever and set up a website dedicated to this fictional town and her fictional characters, the Women of Valley View. I would encourage you all to go check out her website and get a chance to meet the characters before you even open the first book. http://www.womenofvalleyview.blogspot... She has favorite recipes, devotionals, and much more.
Callie was a terrific read. It’s great for a variety of readers. Those who like a little mystery (but not the scary kind), those who love books that take you into the minds of the characters through multiple points of view, and those who love a great romance as Callie and her husband Benton definitely have that angle covered. I was transported into the lives of Callie, her husband Benton, Iris, Sam, and Steve, and even to a degree, Terri, who is the main character for the next book in the series. I love how Ms. Srock interwove the lives of each of her characters while still keeping their thoughts, feelings, and personal journeys separate, the way life really should be.
I found myself welling up with tears frequently while reading the book. The tenderness, compassion, and Christ love that the group of friends showered on Iris and Sam may have been “fiction,” but I have been privileged enough on earth to see it play out in real life in various ways, so to relive those memories was precious.
And the journey to forgiveness the characters faced held so many deep truths. Learning to forgive yourself (carrying false guilt or owning up to past mistakes) or learning to forgive others who are honestly repentant looks very similar. Not wanting to use someone else by accepting the gift they offer while not feeling forgiveness yet was a very profound statement that got me thinking about my own personal life. How many times have I withheld forgiveness from someone else because I didn’t want to use them and what they were offering? But a gift given with strings attached isn’t truly a gift. A gift given freely may be the source used to open up the lines of communication so real forgiveness can occur. She brings you back to this truth by reminding us of the gift that God gave so freely by offering His Son, Jesus, on the cross.
I absolutely loved Callie and am recommending it to all my friends to read. Whether you usually gravitate toward books with a little more mystery or suspense or just love a good ole’ romance, I think all readers alike will fall in love with these characters. I can’t wait to read the next book, Terri, and find out what else is happening in the lives of the Women of Valley View. I don’t think we have to wait too long.
October 16, 2012
Callie Stillman is the kinda gal I'd like for a friend. Fiftyish, married, active lifestyle, and a lady who doesn't give up when God asks her to do something. And God puts a shy, withdrawn little girl in Callie's path and her heart. Callie, along with her husband, Benton, and her prayer-warrior friends, refuse to let Iris and her sister go without helping. But Callie's recent assistance for a little boy ended tragically, and fear wars with faith.
If you read my reviews, you know I don't typically read mainline Christian fiction. I lean towards inspirational romance, but this story line drew me in. And you know what I found? A romance. A cute, sometimes playful-sometimes serious romance between Callie and her husband, Benton. And a romance between God and His children. God loves us, and along with an invitation for us to love Him in return, He offers healing for fractured relationships. Callie is not for readers who enjoy light reading or a few hours of entertainment. It delivers a weighty message of forgiveness and healing with a powerful wallop.
Disclosure: I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
If you read my reviews, you know I don't typically read mainline Christian fiction. I lean towards inspirational romance, but this story line drew me in. And you know what I found? A romance. A cute, sometimes playful-sometimes serious romance between Callie and her husband, Benton. And a romance between God and His children. God loves us, and along with an invitation for us to love Him in return, He offers healing for fractured relationships. Callie is not for readers who enjoy light reading or a few hours of entertainment. It delivers a weighty message of forgiveness and healing with a powerful wallop.
Disclosure: I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
November 11, 2012
I'm not a reader, I promised to read the book because its my moms book and I wanted to be supportive. BUT, it really grabbed my attention from the very start and I couldn't put it down. I REALLY. Loved how well the story flowed and how close I felt to the characters. I really felt like these were people I knew, not just a fictional story. Great book mom! I'm excited to read Teri's story.
December 24, 2015
A great book about learning to pray and trust God in whatever circumstance.
April 22, 2019
Got this as a free book for subscribing to a newsletter - gentle story, engaging characters. Took a while for me to connect with Callie, I identified more with the 11 year old character who is introduced a few chapters in. In this first book of the series, you are introduced to the life of Callie and her 3 best girl pals, all who feature in their own books. Callie's impulsive actions have left her with a monumental regret, grief and guilt - this book explores how God helps her to work through that, through having to deal with the broken lives of Sam, Iris and Bobbie.
February 7, 2019
This book stood out to me because it wasn't a romance story. It definitely is about love but it's sisterly, parental, and ultimately, the Father's love. I literally stayed up all night to read this because I had to know what happened.
The bonus preview shows the next in the series has a romance storyline, and I'm ok with that.
The bonus preview shows the next in the series has a romance storyline, and I'm ok with that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2012
Obedience to God sometimes means getting out of your comfort zone, as Callie Stillman learns when she senses there is something disconcerting about one of her Sunday School students that draws her to the child. She's suffered for a year over the outcome of the last child she thought she was helping. What would happen if she reached out to this child? Meet the main characters in this wonderful story of faith, healing, forgiveness and redemption:
Callie Stillman - Although she blames herself for the tragic death of a small child, Callie knows she must obey God and find out what's happening with Iris Evans, even though her husband has well-intentioned objections to her becoming involved.
Benton Stillman wants to protect his wife from more pain. But once he sees the courage and determination of this little family struggling to stay together, he not only relents, he offers his support.
Samantha "Sam" Evans has the tenacity to do whatever it takes to keep her family together. Trusting no one, she keeps her younger sister and her daughter out from under the radar and out of range of "the system," which has already failed them once.
Iris Evans is wiser than her eleven years, yet she is a little girl who has a desire to enjoy the benefits of childhood. However, her love for her sister and her niece prompt her to keep the secret and care for little Bobbie while Sam works to support the family.
Steve Evans - Since he left the family ten years ago due to his drug use, he's accepted the Lord into his life and become a best-selling author. He speaks at shelters and halfway houses in hopes of having a part in redeeming other souls. When he hears of his ex-wife's death in an automobile accident, he determines to find his daughters. But, will he ever find them? And if he does, will they forgive him for leaving them, and can he make up for all those lost years?
Callie Stillman - Although she blames herself for the tragic death of a small child, Callie knows she must obey God and find out what's happening with Iris Evans, even though her husband has well-intentioned objections to her becoming involved.
Benton Stillman wants to protect his wife from more pain. But once he sees the courage and determination of this little family struggling to stay together, he not only relents, he offers his support.
Samantha "Sam" Evans has the tenacity to do whatever it takes to keep her family together. Trusting no one, she keeps her younger sister and her daughter out from under the radar and out of range of "the system," which has already failed them once.
Iris Evans is wiser than her eleven years, yet she is a little girl who has a desire to enjoy the benefits of childhood. However, her love for her sister and her niece prompt her to keep the secret and care for little Bobbie while Sam works to support the family.
Steve Evans - Since he left the family ten years ago due to his drug use, he's accepted the Lord into his life and become a best-selling author. He speaks at shelters and halfway houses in hopes of having a part in redeeming other souls. When he hears of his ex-wife's death in an automobile accident, he determines to find his daughters. But, will he ever find them? And if he does, will they forgive him for leaving them, and can he make up for all those lost years?
November 12, 2012
I was really moved by this book. It is a book about fear, trust, letting go, forgiveness, and mercy. Also love, compassion, serving others, and commitment.
This book drew me in from page one and held my interest through-out. I couldn't wait to get to the end. I had to know how it turned out.
I felt Callie Stillman's pain as she took Samantha, Bobbie and Iris Evans under her wing. Callie was simply afraid. Would she fail again? She could simply walk away, couldn't she?
Samantha, Iris and baby Bobbie. They were a family and if Samantha had her way, no one would interfere. She would keep her little family together no matter what. After all, she didn't need anyone and she sure didn't need their help. Did she? She would prove she could make it on her own. Couldn't she?
I loved how Callie's friends rallied around her. She had the support of so many people. I felt her pain, and raw emotion. I felt God leading her toward her own healing.
I love reading inspirational books that one can clearly see the working of God in each and every situation.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. I promise you will not be disappointed!
Many thanks to the author Sharon Srock for sending me "Callie" to read and review. The thoughts expressed are mine alone.
This book drew me in from page one and held my interest through-out. I couldn't wait to get to the end. I had to know how it turned out.
I felt Callie Stillman's pain as she took Samantha, Bobbie and Iris Evans under her wing. Callie was simply afraid. Would she fail again? She could simply walk away, couldn't she?
Samantha, Iris and baby Bobbie. They were a family and if Samantha had her way, no one would interfere. She would keep her little family together no matter what. After all, she didn't need anyone and she sure didn't need their help. Did she? She would prove she could make it on her own. Couldn't she?
I loved how Callie's friends rallied around her. She had the support of so many people. I felt her pain, and raw emotion. I felt God leading her toward her own healing.
I love reading inspirational books that one can clearly see the working of God in each and every situation.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. I promise you will not be disappointed!
Many thanks to the author Sharon Srock for sending me "Callie" to read and review. The thoughts expressed are mine alone.
October 9, 2012
In the debut novel, Callie, book one of The Women of Valley View, Sharon Srock has written a sweet story of friendship and healing. Callie is a mature and likable heroine haunted by the death of a child. Yet she can’t stop worrying about a little girl in her Sunday School class, all the while afraid of getting involved again. Toss in a father searching for his children, a couple of nosy, loving friends, two young girls and a baby, and you have a very nice debut novel. The spunky secondary characters of Sam and Iris sometimes seem too mature for their ages, but perhaps in their situation this could be expected. I especially enjoyed the mature, loving romance between Callie and her husband. His gentle humor was perfectly written, as were other elements of humor throughout the book. If you haven’t heard of the biblical Jael, you’re in for a giggle. For a tender, feel good read, I recommend Callie. (I received an advanced copy of this book for review.)
November 17, 2012
Callie by Sharon Srock was a pleasant surprise. The book follows the journey of a woman in her 50s and two sisters with a huge secret. Callie doesn't want to be involved with them but she feels God pushing her to help despite the tragedy she bears extreme guilt that she can't get beyond. It's affecting her marriage, her job and her faith.
There is much to absorb for readers from these pages. It's a heavy book, but has light moments of fun. Despite the seriousness Callie doesn't leave you feeling weighed down and drained wishing you hadn't taken the time to read it. Instead Srock has the genuine ability to make the reader feel a part of the story, almost as a best friend to Callie and the girls. It is an enjoyable read, one that I couldn't set aside until I finished it in the early morning hours.
November 2, 2012
This is a story of the heart, a story about unconditional love, God's love as He guides us through this world. You will fall in love with Callie and all the others in this story as their troubles draw you in and make you look a little deeper into the hearts of others..
After nearly being destroyed while trying to help a young mother, Callie feels called by God to try again, to love more deeply, to give of herself more freely, to be more than she is capable of on her own. Isn't that God's call to all of us? Well, Callie struggles with herself, and her husband, yet she answers the call. And God is just amazing when He demonstrates what a little bit of faithfulness can do.
I hope you will feel as blessed by this story as I have.
After nearly being destroyed while trying to help a young mother, Callie feels called by God to try again, to love more deeply, to give of herself more freely, to be more than she is capable of on her own. Isn't that God's call to all of us? Well, Callie struggles with herself, and her husband, yet she answers the call. And God is just amazing when He demonstrates what a little bit of faithfulness can do.
I hope you will feel as blessed by this story as I have.
February 19, 2013
I won this book by commenting on Sharon Srock's blog. I was under no obligation to read it, but the story synopsis sounded interesting so I gave it a try. I found myself caring about these believable characters from the get-go. Their emotions were genuine and their fears real. The dialogue was very true-to-life as well. What a great story line from beginning to end. I could hardly wait to get back to it every time I had to put the book down. The struggles the girls faced broke my heart and I wished I could help them along with Callie and her friends. I loved that it took Sam so long to come around because I feel that's exactly the way she would have felt. Congratulations, Sharon, on a stellar debut novel. I can't wait to read Terri!
September 5, 2016
I really enjoyed this contemporary women's fiction by a new author for me. Sharon Srock had me hooked with this story of forgiveness and hope. The characters open their hearts by loving others even with the chance of getting hurt in the process. Real life situations are faced through a nuturing environment. I look forward to reading other books in this series.
July 3, 2017
3.5 stars.
The writing was definitely a 4 star. Easy to read and easy to keep reading. I loved the issues raised in the book but not sure I would have gone about things the way Callie did.
Lovely cover BUT I've taken off half a star because it isn't the woman in the book. Callie is 54 and stressed out. She wouldn't look like the glamourous woman on the cover. Please give us reality.
The writing was definitely a 4 star. Easy to read and easy to keep reading. I loved the issues raised in the book but not sure I would have gone about things the way Callie did.
Lovely cover BUT I've taken off half a star because it isn't the woman in the book. Callie is 54 and stressed out. She wouldn't look like the glamourous woman on the cover. Please give us reality.
October 4, 2013
Loved this book. Brought tears to my eyes - - in sorrow and in joy. I read Terri first because I'd won it. After reading Terri, which is the second book, I simply had to go back and read Callie. And I'm so glad I did. Can't wait for the third book.
April 13, 2015
Wonderful Story
I would have rated this 5 except for all the grammar errors. You should ask me to proofread. The story was great and I look forward to reading more of your books. I love the way you tell a story and would recommend you to family and friends.
I would have rated this 5 except for all the grammar errors. You should ask me to proofread. The story was great and I look forward to reading more of your books. I love the way you tell a story and would recommend you to family and friends.
September 11, 2017
This started off a little slow for me but it didn’t take me long to get into this story of broken hearts, sorrow, healing, forgiveness and the faith one women has in God as he leads her to find the answers for a small family who has lost everything in return finding forgiveness for herself. It is really hard to put yourself out there helping others and making the correct decisions never knowing if it will come back to haunt you. So many times we maybe should have stepped in but turn away not because we do not care but because of what the fall out might be. In this story one woman didn’t turn away but stepped up to the plate helping a young mother keep her child. The fall out was of the little boy losing his life and leaving Callie devastated knowing in some way she took part in killing an innocent child. It doesn’t matter that others step forward and help the family keep the child it is that she did. She can’t see beyond her own guilt. When another family comes along that needs her help she wants to step back but her belief in God and what he wants her to do will not let her. This is what the story is based around…the trial of pain, sorrow of two families finding their way and leading one to the word of God as he changes their life. It is one thing to say you are religious but totally different to walk the walk and talk the talk why putting your life in God’s hands as Callie did.
I thought the narrator did an outstanding job making the reader really feel the emotion that each character was going through. You could hear the pain of each one as things happened. I really enjoyed her character voices you always knew who was talking and what they were feeling. There are no repeating of words, no background noises, no volume changes and if any breaks were taken I could not tell. Ms. Marty put a lot of thought into how the story would play out giving her voice the correct tones for each scene. I had no trouble picturing what the narrator was reading. I thought her performance was outstanding and really pulled me in. The audio was very clear and clean giving you a performance you will not forget for a long time to come. She really pulled on your heartstrings in her very vivid account of story the author wrote.
I had no trouble relating to this story as I am sure most of us have had to deal with abuse of some kind. Now a day’s most of us have also dealt with divorce, a parent leaving and maybe even a drug issue. All of these issues can tear a family apart with no trouble at all. My heart went out to Callie but more so too this young girl Iris and Samantha as they deal with the road life has given them. I can’t think of anything more horrible then having no one there for you when you need them the most and to scared to reach out for help knowing your family might be torn apart at anytime. The author really put some thought into writing this as she pulls your heart one way and then another. She does add some humor lots of smiles and then breaking your heart all over again. It is a story of love of God, forgiving your self and learning to forgive others. There are some very good points here as to the reasoning of why we should forgive. I thought this was a very compelling vivid audio that really gives a punch in more ways than one. Just when you think things cannot get worse they do. The author gives you a few surprises that at first you do not know how to take it. It all does work out for the best leaving you with a smile on your face and peace in your heart. I thought this was a very uplifting and inspirational listen that I totally enjoyed. I hope others will give it a listen and really be pulled in to some outstanding narration and writing.
I thought the narrator did an outstanding job making the reader really feel the emotion that each character was going through. You could hear the pain of each one as things happened. I really enjoyed her character voices you always knew who was talking and what they were feeling. There are no repeating of words, no background noises, no volume changes and if any breaks were taken I could not tell. Ms. Marty put a lot of thought into how the story would play out giving her voice the correct tones for each scene. I had no trouble picturing what the narrator was reading. I thought her performance was outstanding and really pulled me in. The audio was very clear and clean giving you a performance you will not forget for a long time to come. She really pulled on your heartstrings in her very vivid account of story the author wrote.
I had no trouble relating to this story as I am sure most of us have had to deal with abuse of some kind. Now a day’s most of us have also dealt with divorce, a parent leaving and maybe even a drug issue. All of these issues can tear a family apart with no trouble at all. My heart went out to Callie but more so too this young girl Iris and Samantha as they deal with the road life has given them. I can’t think of anything more horrible then having no one there for you when you need them the most and to scared to reach out for help knowing your family might be torn apart at anytime. The author really put some thought into writing this as she pulls your heart one way and then another. She does add some humor lots of smiles and then breaking your heart all over again. It is a story of love of God, forgiving your self and learning to forgive others. There are some very good points here as to the reasoning of why we should forgive. I thought this was a very compelling vivid audio that really gives a punch in more ways than one. Just when you think things cannot get worse they do. The author gives you a few surprises that at first you do not know how to take it. It all does work out for the best leaving you with a smile on your face and peace in your heart. I thought this was a very uplifting and inspirational listen that I totally enjoyed. I hope others will give it a listen and really be pulled in to some outstanding narration and writing.
November 23, 2017
I had trouble reading this book because hardly any ten pages went by that I didn't have tears in my eyes. Oh wow! This story hits the heart in so many ways and it just keeps on doing it through to the end.
The story of this 17 year-old mother of an infant and filling the role of mother to her 11 year-old sister starts by breaking my heart. Sam and Iris have lost their mother 18 months earlier and their experience in the foster system was horrendous. When Sam isn't working, she is going to high school or taking care of her baby. When Iris isn't going to school, she is baby sitting or doing laundry. Yet both these kids have huge hearts.
Meanwhile Callie has had a rough time recently that has shaken her to the core and even shaken her faith. She knows that something is wrong in Iris' life, but because of her crisis, she doesn't want to step out again to take the chance of helping her.
The author is masterful telling the story. She paints the background of each of these characters so you feel right along with them. I noticed a device (I'm sure there is a name for it) early in the story using $40 to contrast the life of Iris with her more well off friend April. First Sam gives Iris $40 to shop for the family's groceries but tells her not to waste any. Iris is forced to return one little item of cookies because she didn't have enough money. A little later April goes shopping with her grandmother, Callie. April has $40 also and she tells her grandmother the things she plans to buy including a dress and CD's. But when it comes time for April to spend it, she captures our hearts because she decides to buy her friend Iris a new dress for Easter because she only has one dress. In another contrast, we know that Iris babysits every day all afternoon and night and gets nothing, while April bragged earlier that she earned her $40 for babysitting (I think) two days and only a few hours. Later, in one short phrase, the author describes shows the reality of that this otherwise apparently unflappable mother is still a teenager with one short phrase - "her only answer, a wordless shrug".
The story doesn't ignore the fact that a long time spent in this difficult life leaves a mark. When their plight is discovered, and church people rally with a bounty of supplies for the family, the teenager's first reaction is not gratitude but "tears of self-pity. Sam had sacrificed her whole life for Iris, and all it took was four day of something better than what she could provide for her sister to make it all pointless." Even though self-pity is not attractive, this thought by Sam is so poignant.
There are many other examples of how well the story is told to capture our hearts, but I will leave it there.
The story is unquestionably aimed at Christians. There is a definite Christian message. But at least as far as how the Christians in it act, it is totally realistic. I have seen many examples of generosity and love and support that rival this story. For the skeptic and agnostic, I would challenge them to read it anyway. Begin with skepticism, but stay open. It is still a great story. And it accurately describes what can happen in a church that truly follows Jesus.
10 stars on a scale of 5.
The story of this 17 year-old mother of an infant and filling the role of mother to her 11 year-old sister starts by breaking my heart. Sam and Iris have lost their mother 18 months earlier and their experience in the foster system was horrendous. When Sam isn't working, she is going to high school or taking care of her baby. When Iris isn't going to school, she is baby sitting or doing laundry. Yet both these kids have huge hearts.
Meanwhile Callie has had a rough time recently that has shaken her to the core and even shaken her faith. She knows that something is wrong in Iris' life, but because of her crisis, she doesn't want to step out again to take the chance of helping her.
The author is masterful telling the story. She paints the background of each of these characters so you feel right along with them. I noticed a device (I'm sure there is a name for it) early in the story using $40 to contrast the life of Iris with her more well off friend April. First Sam gives Iris $40 to shop for the family's groceries but tells her not to waste any. Iris is forced to return one little item of cookies because she didn't have enough money. A little later April goes shopping with her grandmother, Callie. April has $40 also and she tells her grandmother the things she plans to buy including a dress and CD's. But when it comes time for April to spend it, she captures our hearts because she decides to buy her friend Iris a new dress for Easter because she only has one dress. In another contrast, we know that Iris babysits every day all afternoon and night and gets nothing, while April bragged earlier that she earned her $40 for babysitting (I think) two days and only a few hours. Later, in one short phrase, the author describes shows the reality of that this otherwise apparently unflappable mother is still a teenager with one short phrase - "her only answer, a wordless shrug".
The story doesn't ignore the fact that a long time spent in this difficult life leaves a mark. When their plight is discovered, and church people rally with a bounty of supplies for the family, the teenager's first reaction is not gratitude but "tears of self-pity. Sam had sacrificed her whole life for Iris, and all it took was four day of something better than what she could provide for her sister to make it all pointless." Even though self-pity is not attractive, this thought by Sam is so poignant.
There are many other examples of how well the story is told to capture our hearts, but I will leave it there.
The story is unquestionably aimed at Christians. There is a definite Christian message. But at least as far as how the Christians in it act, it is totally realistic. I have seen many examples of generosity and love and support that rival this story. For the skeptic and agnostic, I would challenge them to read it anyway. Begin with skepticism, but stay open. It is still a great story. And it accurately describes what can happen in a church that truly follows Jesus.
10 stars on a scale of 5.
October 21, 2025
Sharon’s books are new to me. I was given the opportunity to read her first book in the Women of Valley View series called Callie and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it! The book is about a woman named Callie who is struggling with blaming herself over a tragedy, Iris and Samantha two sisters who are trying to survive on their own and desperately in need of a Savior. It also features the girls’ father who left their family years ago due to drugs but is now clean and born again as he searches for the daughters that he lost.
One of my favorite things about the book is the lighthearted joking between Callie and her husband, Iris and Sam, and Callie and her best friends. I actually laughed out loud multiple times! I also enjoyed how time and time again the characters show God’s love to each other by giving a helping hand and caring for each other. There’s a scene involving groceries and a free certificate that left me almost in tears! Stuff like that gets to me apparently even in fiction haha. I ended the book satisfied with how it was written which is rare for me. I usually have a few things I’d have changed, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing with this! This is a perfect story for anyone wanting to read a heartwarming story about forgiveness and God’s provision and rescuing. Thank Him that He never leaves us and always works things out for our good and His glory! I’ll most definitely be reading this again and can’t wait to read the next book!
One of my favorite things about the book is the lighthearted joking between Callie and her husband, Iris and Sam, and Callie and her best friends. I actually laughed out loud multiple times! I also enjoyed how time and time again the characters show God’s love to each other by giving a helping hand and caring for each other. There’s a scene involving groceries and a free certificate that left me almost in tears! Stuff like that gets to me apparently even in fiction haha. I ended the book satisfied with how it was written which is rare for me. I usually have a few things I’d have changed, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing with this! This is a perfect story for anyone wanting to read a heartwarming story about forgiveness and God’s provision and rescuing. Thank Him that He never leaves us and always works things out for our good and His glory! I’ll most definitely be reading this again and can’t wait to read the next book!
July 12, 2018
At first this book was 'lighter' than I wanted to be reading. It's portrayal of a struggling woman from past issues, along with some children also struggling, did not connect with me. However, I persisted, since there was nothing offensive about the book. In fact, as the main character 'Callie' relies on guidance from diety, then I connected with it/her. I considered giving this a 3 star rating, but chose a 4 star rating. Even though the plot seems to tie up all the loose ends too well, this book evoked several emotions in me, as I continued reading. I'm pleased to have read a book that illustrates our need to listen for guidance to serve and help others, without regard for criticism (personally or of the book). Perhaps you might enjoy it as well. As another reader/reviewer said, and I agree, "This is a story of hardship, torn lives being rescued, immense love, the generosity of four special sisters-in-Christ, forgiveness, healing, and last, but oh so not least, turning to God to watch the miraculous happen. I can recommend this to anyone looking to feel good and even shed a few tears of joy. "
March 3, 2018
Hooray! I've discovered another excellent Christian author and am looking forward to reading the rest of Sharon Srock's Women of Valley View series. Callie and the other characters were well developed and realistic, each with their own hopes and fears, their faith and their doubt. It was so good to read a Christian book where the characters' faith was very real and integral to their lives, and not just something they did on a Sunday.
The story was interesting and gripping as well, and I did have tears in my eyes on a few occasions. It was a wonderful novel full of grace, hope, healing and redemption. It was also nice that the story didn't centre around a romance for a change, as many novels are prone to do. I did feel that everything came together in the end slightly fast, but that didn't really take away from the enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys truly inspirational fiction.
The story was interesting and gripping as well, and I did have tears in my eyes on a few occasions. It was a wonderful novel full of grace, hope, healing and redemption. It was also nice that the story didn't centre around a romance for a change, as many novels are prone to do. I did feel that everything came together in the end slightly fast, but that didn't really take away from the enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys truly inspirational fiction.
May 17, 2018
This is a heart-wrenching story of love, loss, hardships, dedication, conviction and fulfilling responsibility to God and to others. Valley View sounds like a great place to live and the people sound like the friends we all want to have. Callie and her husband, Benton, are kind, caring, loving people who also have heartaches of their own, but their concern and dedication to each other, to their family,to their friends, their church family and to others in need goes above and beyond the call of duty. Young Samantha, her baby daughter Bobbie and her little sister Iris have finally found a place to live, but it isn't long before they find out that it is NOT a place to hide.
Sharon Srock has done an excellent job of telling this delightful story 'Callie', which I have read as part of a box set called INSPIRED, but which I also have as an individual copy on my Kindle. I would recommend this story to young teens all the way up to 'young' or old grandmas or grandpas too.
Sharon Srock has done an excellent job of telling this delightful story 'Callie', which I have read as part of a box set called INSPIRED, but which I also have as an individual copy on my Kindle. I would recommend this story to young teens all the way up to 'young' or old grandmas or grandpas too.
December 9, 2018
A heart wrenching and heartwarming suspenseful story about two little girls and an infant.... this is a book you just can’t put down...in a town whose been chosen by God to let his light shine forth to this torn apart family. These girls, their dad left their mother and is a drug addict. Their mother died in a car accident, a family torn apart by loss and the struggles of a teenage girl as she manages to keep her little sister and a infant together under the radar of the authorities in a old apartment while she works to keep them alive and together. And how a wounded woman hears God and tries not to get too involved ......but God’s insistence is unrelenting. This is such a great and wonderfully written story of Faith and Gods perfect timing....a real page turner. The characters feel so real. I do not want to give the story away....just enough to let you know a little about it. I loved this gift from The Lord. I was given this story and I voluntarily leave this review.
March 25, 2019
Callie is a wonderful God loving woman that meets Iris at church. Wanting to help, she has her friends help her. They find out that Iris lives with her 17 year old sister and her baby. The sister Sam is working hard to keep them together as a family. She attends school through the day and works at night. Iris is 11. She goes to school through the day, and cares for Sam's baby at night.
Long story short:
The mother has passed way. They know their father, as the man that left them for drugs.
Their life is a hard one, but they cope.
Enter Callie and her friends. They help in every possible way. They even find the father.
The girls both find God and their lives start to become better.
Now, whatever you do, READ this book. It is one of the best books I have ever read.
There is so much to this book that is great, one couldn't tell all about it in a short chapter or two, so you really need to read it for yourself to see just what I mean.
Long story short:
The mother has passed way. They know their father, as the man that left them for drugs.
Their life is a hard one, but they cope.
Enter Callie and her friends. They help in every possible way. They even find the father.
The girls both find God and their lives start to become better.
Now, whatever you do, READ this book. It is one of the best books I have ever read.
There is so much to this book that is great, one couldn't tell all about it in a short chapter or two, so you really need to read it for yourself to see just what I mean.
November 28, 2018
Callie is the first book by Sharon Srock I’ve read, and it definitely won’t be my last. The first in “The Women of Valley View” series, Callie is an intense, through-provoking story that drew me in from the very first page. The characters were realistic; people I could see myself being friends with in “real life.” Each of these friends gets her own book in the series, and I can’t wait to dive into them. I loved Callie’s husband, a man of integrity and strength, who obvious love, care, and support of his wife is swoon-worthy. Callie’s circle of friends is fun, yet serious and take-charge when needed. Each woman has a deep faith that is tangible without being preachy or contrived. I would want them behind me if I was dealing with a serious issue. Topics of child abuse, drug addiction, and death are dealt with realistically, but sensitively. Highly recommended.
April 19, 2021
Callie, the first book of woman of Valley view, was kind of hard to get into at first- there was no connection between the first three chapters. However, the farther you get into the book the more invested you get in the characters. Each of the characters are trying to heal from their past in different ways; for Callie, it means trying to stay uninvolved in people's lives because of a perceived past mistake, for Iris and Samantha, it means staying one step ahead and being prepared to move if anything goes awry.. This book shows how we are all connected and meant to help each other on this journey called life. If there was one comment I could say about this audio production it was that some chapters were very quiet and hard to hear I had to turn up the volume. The narrator was kind of soft.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews