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Healing Love
A news anchor intern has it all planned out, and love isn't on the agenda.
Brooke Endress is on the cusp of her lifelong dream when her younger sister persuades her to chaperone a mission trip to El Salvador. Packing enough hand sanitizer and bug spray to single-handedly wipe out malaria, she embarks on what she hopes will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
But Brooke is blindsided by the desperation for hope and love she sees in the orphans’ eyes. And no less by the connection she feels with her handsome translator. As newfound passion blooms, Brooke wrestles with its implications for her career dreams.
Ubaldo Chavez, teacher and translator, knows the struggle that comes with generational poverty. But he found the way out – education – and is determined to help his students rise above.
When he agrees to translate for a mission team from the United States he expects to encounter a bunch of "missional tourists" full of empty promises. Yet an American news anchor defies his expectations, and he finds himself falling in love. But what does he have to offer someone with everything?
Brooke Endress is on the cusp of her lifelong dream when her younger sister persuades her to chaperone a mission trip to El Salvador. Packing enough hand sanitizer and bug spray to single-handedly wipe out malaria, she embarks on what she hopes will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
But Brooke is blindsided by the desperation for hope and love she sees in the orphans’ eyes. And no less by the connection she feels with her handsome translator. As newfound passion blooms, Brooke wrestles with its implications for her career dreams.
Ubaldo Chavez, teacher and translator, knows the struggle that comes with generational poverty. But he found the way out – education – and is determined to help his students rise above.
When he agrees to translate for a mission team from the United States he expects to encounter a bunch of "missional tourists" full of empty promises. Yet an American news anchor defies his expectations, and he finds himself falling in love. But what does he have to offer someone with everything?
- GenresChristian FictionRomance
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2017
12 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Slattery
43 books99 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 21, 2017
This is a God inspired book. Not preachy but very faithfully written. I loved every page of it. Slattery took a topic like going on a Mission trip and orphans and made it shine. I held on to every word of this book.
This book leaves you with something to take away and keep you thinking. I have read all of Slattery's books and I take away something from everyone of them.
I can't find the words to tell you how much I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. If you have not read one of Jennifer's books this is the one to start with, you will not be sorry.
This is a 5 star read and one that I recommend. Run don't walk and pick up your copy.
The Mary Reader received this book from the author for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
This book leaves you with something to take away and keep you thinking. I have read all of Slattery's books and I take away something from everyone of them.
I can't find the words to tell you how much I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. If you have not read one of Jennifer's books this is the one to start with, you will not be sorry.
This is a 5 star read and one that I recommend. Run don't walk and pick up your copy.
The Mary Reader received this book from the author for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
July 22, 2017
Another awesome read from Jennifer! This one was different from her other books that I've read, in my opinion. An excellent book for sure but this one felt different as I read. Maybe because it touched a different part of my heart, than her previous books did. This book definitely broke my heart, but in a good way. The story really made me want to hop on a plane straight for El Salvador to save all of the orphan children. I just can't stand to see or read about children being mistreated or not cared for/about. It made me long to hold those sweet girls in my arms. This book definitely touched my mothers heart. Jennifer always has such a way with words that puts you right in the middle of the story as if you are there. I enjoyed all the characters in the book. I think Fatima and Dinora were my most favorites. I think I will always enjoy Jennifer's books no matter what tough subject she chooses to tackle next. I received this book from the author for free. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2017
Where do I begin with this review? No words justify the amount of feels I felt with this book. It is absolutely an amazing read. From heartache and pain to smiles and hope, Ms. Slattery stitches together a novel that will not soon leave the reader's soul. You close the book and reflect on the story and the characters and their faith long into the night. It's forever in my heart, that's for sure!
I have never been on a mission trip but I know of people that have. They come home with stories that will leave you in tears, sometimes from happiness, sometimes from sadness. Ms. Slattery filled this book with such detail that you can't help but feel as if you, the reader,were right there in the center of the mission trip. Watching Brooke along side of Ubaldo really kept me hooked on the story. I loved both of their characters so much. I felt their emotions and their faith as if they were my own. When they came to terms with what God had in store for the two of them, together, I really felt it deep in my soul!
Ms. Slattery has taken on a wonderful theme for this book. Finding love in an unexpected place with an unexpected person, learning of that our plan isn't always His plans, and seeking redemption along the way, really makes for a fantabulous book! I can not simply give this incredibly moving novel a measly 5 star rating. It is beyond that. It is deserving of 5 thousand stars, if you want my opinion. This book, and all it has to offer, will suck you in, cacoon you into it's pages and leave you breathless and in awe of Ms. Slattery's work. Bravo, Jennifer Slattery! Bravo! This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
I have never been on a mission trip but I know of people that have. They come home with stories that will leave you in tears, sometimes from happiness, sometimes from sadness. Ms. Slattery filled this book with such detail that you can't help but feel as if you, the reader,were right there in the center of the mission trip. Watching Brooke along side of Ubaldo really kept me hooked on the story. I loved both of their characters so much. I felt their emotions and their faith as if they were my own. When they came to terms with what God had in store for the two of them, together, I really felt it deep in my soul!
Ms. Slattery has taken on a wonderful theme for this book. Finding love in an unexpected place with an unexpected person, learning of that our plan isn't always His plans, and seeking redemption along the way, really makes for a fantabulous book! I can not simply give this incredibly moving novel a measly 5 star rating. It is beyond that. It is deserving of 5 thousand stars, if you want my opinion. This book, and all it has to offer, will suck you in, cacoon you into it's pages and leave you breathless and in awe of Ms. Slattery's work. Bravo, Jennifer Slattery! Bravo! This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
July 12, 2017
"She spent over $100,000 and two years in grad school for this?"
Makes one wonder about the novel that they just opened with this one opening sentence. I often wonder if a lot of people think along the same lines as Brooke Endress, the main character in Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery. It's hard to discern what God's plan is for our lives and for Brooke, after losing her parents in a car accident, her and her younger sister Aubrey now live with her Aunt and Uncle, so she knows what it's like to lose everything you hoped for your future. After numerous rejection letters from various television stations looking for anchor positions, Brooke believes working as an intern for the last two years is beginning to make her wonder about her future.
Just as she is about to embark on a possible promotion working alongside a colleague for the television station in a new debut program, her Aunt and Uncle ask if she would accompany Aubrey on a missions trip to El Salvador for two weeks as a chaperone since she is took young to do so on her own. Remembering her promise to do just that, she gets permission from the station to take this trip, counting down the days until she can put her career on a possible fast track towards something worthwhile and promising. The last thing she expected to do was fall in love.
Ubaldo Chavez, has spent his entire life, finding ways to serve God. He graduated and obtained his teaching credentials which most in El Salvado never achieve. He now uses those skills to teach the children when they can attend at school in hopes of giving them that same chance at something better. During his down time, he still spends time bringing food and medicine to his family and ailing mother even though his father wants nothing to do with the fact that he believes Ubaldo is too good to be a simple farmer. He also works for a small orphanage raising young girls to keep them safe from living on the streets and becoming victims of prostitution. He just never imagined in all his wildest dreams he would fall in love with a woman who is only going to be in his country for 2 weeks.
I received Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery compliments of author. This entire story is based on the author's own unique experience serving on a missions trip to a third world county and getting an impact on how very different things are in our own country. It completely changes her life, like Brooke in the novel. Brooke discovers a young orphan child, Fatima, who is too afraid to ask for help when she and her younger sister Dinora, leave home to avoid being victims at the hands of their Uncle. She finds meaning and purpose to her life and wonders if God might be calling her into a different future than she'd ever dream is possible. This is a beautiful story of unconditional love, forgiveness and redemption and helps readers understand the plight of young girls in El Salvador. This one easily garners a 4.5 out of 5 stars in this reader's opinion.
Makes one wonder about the novel that they just opened with this one opening sentence. I often wonder if a lot of people think along the same lines as Brooke Endress, the main character in Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery. It's hard to discern what God's plan is for our lives and for Brooke, after losing her parents in a car accident, her and her younger sister Aubrey now live with her Aunt and Uncle, so she knows what it's like to lose everything you hoped for your future. After numerous rejection letters from various television stations looking for anchor positions, Brooke believes working as an intern for the last two years is beginning to make her wonder about her future.
Just as she is about to embark on a possible promotion working alongside a colleague for the television station in a new debut program, her Aunt and Uncle ask if she would accompany Aubrey on a missions trip to El Salvador for two weeks as a chaperone since she is took young to do so on her own. Remembering her promise to do just that, she gets permission from the station to take this trip, counting down the days until she can put her career on a possible fast track towards something worthwhile and promising. The last thing she expected to do was fall in love.
Ubaldo Chavez, has spent his entire life, finding ways to serve God. He graduated and obtained his teaching credentials which most in El Salvado never achieve. He now uses those skills to teach the children when they can attend at school in hopes of giving them that same chance at something better. During his down time, he still spends time bringing food and medicine to his family and ailing mother even though his father wants nothing to do with the fact that he believes Ubaldo is too good to be a simple farmer. He also works for a small orphanage raising young girls to keep them safe from living on the streets and becoming victims of prostitution. He just never imagined in all his wildest dreams he would fall in love with a woman who is only going to be in his country for 2 weeks.
I received Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery compliments of author. This entire story is based on the author's own unique experience serving on a missions trip to a third world county and getting an impact on how very different things are in our own country. It completely changes her life, like Brooke in the novel. Brooke discovers a young orphan child, Fatima, who is too afraid to ask for help when she and her younger sister Dinora, leave home to avoid being victims at the hands of their Uncle. She finds meaning and purpose to her life and wonders if God might be calling her into a different future than she'd ever dream is possible. This is a beautiful story of unconditional love, forgiveness and redemption and helps readers understand the plight of young girls in El Salvador. This one easily garners a 4.5 out of 5 stars in this reader's opinion.
July 21, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author takes the reader right into the midst of a country where there is so much need and want and captures all of the despair and hopelessness that the people feel. It is also a beautiful story of the difference people can make when they are willing to reach out and offer God's love and hope. It is a story with wonderful characters and following the relationship develop between Ubaldo and Brooke, people from completely different backgrounds, made for a heartwarming read. This is one of those stories that stays with you after you have read the final page. I was given a copy of this book but a favorable review was not required. The opinions expressed are my own, and this is another one from this author that I definitely recommend.
July 9, 2017
"What is keeping you from the abundant life He offers? . . . . . Surrender. Loosen your grip."
Brooke Endress is struggling; her life long dream of becoming a network news anchor seems just out of reach, in spite of all her hard work. Reluctantly, she agrees to use her vacation time in order to chaperone a church mission trip to El Salvador, so that her aunt and uncle will allow her younger sister to participate, never imagining that two weeks in an impoverished country could claim her heart.
Ubaldo Chavez immediately notices the American beauty among the group for whom he has agreed to translate. She seems quite out of place, until she mingles with the orphaned children, and uses her skill with words to share simple truths from the Bible. When they observe a young girl and her sister lurking along the street, in obvious need of food and water, Ubaldo and Brooke find that teamwork comes naturally to them; if only Brooke's life wasn't so deeply embedded in her career back in the United States, things might be different.
Simply told, this story is filled with reminders that we may not be able to change the world, but we are called to share the abundant life with one person at a time, no matter how old, or on what continent they reside.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
Brooke Endress is struggling; her life long dream of becoming a network news anchor seems just out of reach, in spite of all her hard work. Reluctantly, she agrees to use her vacation time in order to chaperone a church mission trip to El Salvador, so that her aunt and uncle will allow her younger sister to participate, never imagining that two weeks in an impoverished country could claim her heart.
Ubaldo Chavez immediately notices the American beauty among the group for whom he has agreed to translate. She seems quite out of place, until she mingles with the orphaned children, and uses her skill with words to share simple truths from the Bible. When they observe a young girl and her sister lurking along the street, in obvious need of food and water, Ubaldo and Brooke find that teamwork comes naturally to them; if only Brooke's life wasn't so deeply embedded in her career back in the United States, things might be different.
Simply told, this story is filled with reminders that we may not be able to change the world, but we are called to share the abundant life with one person at a time, no matter how old, or on what continent they reside.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
July 20, 2017
Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery is the most beautiful and heartfelt contemporary Christian novel. At its heart are children - children who need love, care and to know that Jesus loves them.
The novel is written around a mission trip to El Salvador. Here there is much poverty and neglect. Orphaned children are abandoned. Even children with parents are neglected, unloved and seen as useless commodities. Words spoken over them in anger remain lodged in their hearts - useless, worthless, unloved. These children need to know God's heart for them. They need to experience love and compassion. "We cannot save the world... nor the children of our school, but we can impact the life of one."
God needs people to be His eyes and ears, His hands and feet, to show those who are unloved their value in His eyes, that they are precious to Him. "As if God Himself loved these children through her."
God gives us dreams. Our dreams may change. We need to be open to follow God's calling on our lives. How? The novel explains the need for prayer and then if it is God's plan, peace will follow.
There is a wide gap between the rich and the poor. Material wealth may mean spiritual poverty. There is nothing wrong with having stuff, unless that is where we place our hearts. God wants us to have a heart for people. To speak up for those without a voice. In the novel a character is asked to "step out of her comfort zone, and to love these precious children."
The novel has the theme of trust. Past experiences mean some find trusting people hard but God can be trusted full stop. Sometimes when life is hard, we believe God is absent, or worse, uncaring. "Either God wasn't real or He didn't care." In our anger and our need, we wonder "if You're really there, why don't You help us?" God sees. God cares. God weeps. God sends people to walk alongside us. "Speaking hope and truth into... children's lives."
There are awakenings within the novel. Awakenings to God. Awakenings to our role in His world.
America and El Salvador are very different. The reader is reminded that God does not concern Himself with our stuff, God looks at our hearts. God wants our hearts surrendered to Him and us pursuing kingdom works.
The novel is about families - actual families, our wider family, and the family of God, the church. The church when it functions as Jesus intended, is a beautiful thing - needs are met, hearts are open to others, unconditional love is given. Unfortunately not all families are good. Sometimes children suffer at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them. Children then become suspicious of all adults, and even project their suspicions on to God. They need to know "in Christ there is always hope." Then they will realise "maybe God doesn't hate me after all."
Healing Love is a beautiful novel. It will break your heart. It will restore your soul. It will give you hope - hope that the world can be a better place.
The characters were realistically drawn and you will fall in love with the children. To echo Jennifer Slattery's closing words - if you are affected by the plight of orphans, you can help via Compassion by sponsoring a child or two. Just £25 a month makes a huge difference to a child in poverty. Together we can change the world one child at a time.
A beautiful novel. Thank you Jennifer Slattery for highlighting a need and for writing such a wonderful story.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The novel is written around a mission trip to El Salvador. Here there is much poverty and neglect. Orphaned children are abandoned. Even children with parents are neglected, unloved and seen as useless commodities. Words spoken over them in anger remain lodged in their hearts - useless, worthless, unloved. These children need to know God's heart for them. They need to experience love and compassion. "We cannot save the world... nor the children of our school, but we can impact the life of one."
God needs people to be His eyes and ears, His hands and feet, to show those who are unloved their value in His eyes, that they are precious to Him. "As if God Himself loved these children through her."
God gives us dreams. Our dreams may change. We need to be open to follow God's calling on our lives. How? The novel explains the need for prayer and then if it is God's plan, peace will follow.
There is a wide gap between the rich and the poor. Material wealth may mean spiritual poverty. There is nothing wrong with having stuff, unless that is where we place our hearts. God wants us to have a heart for people. To speak up for those without a voice. In the novel a character is asked to "step out of her comfort zone, and to love these precious children."
The novel has the theme of trust. Past experiences mean some find trusting people hard but God can be trusted full stop. Sometimes when life is hard, we believe God is absent, or worse, uncaring. "Either God wasn't real or He didn't care." In our anger and our need, we wonder "if You're really there, why don't You help us?" God sees. God cares. God weeps. God sends people to walk alongside us. "Speaking hope and truth into... children's lives."
There are awakenings within the novel. Awakenings to God. Awakenings to our role in His world.
America and El Salvador are very different. The reader is reminded that God does not concern Himself with our stuff, God looks at our hearts. God wants our hearts surrendered to Him and us pursuing kingdom works.
The novel is about families - actual families, our wider family, and the family of God, the church. The church when it functions as Jesus intended, is a beautiful thing - needs are met, hearts are open to others, unconditional love is given. Unfortunately not all families are good. Sometimes children suffer at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them. Children then become suspicious of all adults, and even project their suspicions on to God. They need to know "in Christ there is always hope." Then they will realise "maybe God doesn't hate me after all."
Healing Love is a beautiful novel. It will break your heart. It will restore your soul. It will give you hope - hope that the world can be a better place.
The characters were realistically drawn and you will fall in love with the children. To echo Jennifer Slattery's closing words - if you are affected by the plight of orphans, you can help via Compassion by sponsoring a child or two. Just £25 a month makes a huge difference to a child in poverty. Together we can change the world one child at a time.
A beautiful novel. Thank you Jennifer Slattery for highlighting a need and for writing such a wonderful story.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 19, 2017
Healing Love is the story of Brooke Endress and Ubaldo Chavez.
Brooke and Ubaldo meet on the mission field in El Salvador. Ubaldo is a native of El Salvador where he works as a teacher and translator. Brooke is an All-American girl with a passion for broadcast journalism. When the reader first meets Brooke, she is focused on rising in the ranks at work. She wants to advance her career by becoming on-air talent at a TV station. Love is not part of Brooke’s life plan…until she meets Ubaldo.
Ubaldo’s world is rocked when he meets Brooke. He notices her beautiful exterior first but as the story progresses it’s her soft heart of gold and her passion for helping children that win him over.
Brooke did not want to go to El Salvador. She wanted to focus on her career but her younger sister convinced her to accompany her on a mission trip to El Salvador that’s sponsored by her church. Brooke is reluctant to go but eventually agrees. When Brooke arrives in El Salvador and starts working with the young orphans, they win her heart. She finds it hard to go back home after the mission trip is over not only because of the children, but because of her love connection with a certain someone (Ubaldo).
This is a sweet, strong and wonderful story about what can happen when you allow God to write your love story and exchange your career plans for His life plan. I love the way that the author (Jennifer Slattery) brought Brooke and Ubaldo together. It was unexpected, filled with surprises and so beautiful.
The plot of this story is solid, believable and worth noting. The author writes in a way that’s engaging, heartwarming and real. The author’s heart for the mission field shines through in the way that she writes this story. She’s created characters that are likable, relatable and completely captivating. She paints a picture of the orphan children that draws the reader in and makes them want to advocate for their welfare even though this is fiction.
This story is a bit over 300 pages but is so wonderful that you may stay awake, paying full attention to this story until you reach “the end”.
"Healing Love" is well deserving of a five-star rating!
Brooke and Ubaldo meet on the mission field in El Salvador. Ubaldo is a native of El Salvador where he works as a teacher and translator. Brooke is an All-American girl with a passion for broadcast journalism. When the reader first meets Brooke, she is focused on rising in the ranks at work. She wants to advance her career by becoming on-air talent at a TV station. Love is not part of Brooke’s life plan…until she meets Ubaldo.
Ubaldo’s world is rocked when he meets Brooke. He notices her beautiful exterior first but as the story progresses it’s her soft heart of gold and her passion for helping children that win him over.
Brooke did not want to go to El Salvador. She wanted to focus on her career but her younger sister convinced her to accompany her on a mission trip to El Salvador that’s sponsored by her church. Brooke is reluctant to go but eventually agrees. When Brooke arrives in El Salvador and starts working with the young orphans, they win her heart. She finds it hard to go back home after the mission trip is over not only because of the children, but because of her love connection with a certain someone (Ubaldo).
This is a sweet, strong and wonderful story about what can happen when you allow God to write your love story and exchange your career plans for His life plan. I love the way that the author (Jennifer Slattery) brought Brooke and Ubaldo together. It was unexpected, filled with surprises and so beautiful.
The plot of this story is solid, believable and worth noting. The author writes in a way that’s engaging, heartwarming and real. The author’s heart for the mission field shines through in the way that she writes this story. She’s created characters that are likable, relatable and completely captivating. She paints a picture of the orphan children that draws the reader in and makes them want to advocate for their welfare even though this is fiction.
This story is a bit over 300 pages but is so wonderful that you may stay awake, paying full attention to this story until you reach “the end”.
"Healing Love" is well deserving of a five-star rating!
July 7, 2017
What a powerful and emotional story!!!
You could see the love of God coming out of this author's heart as she writes this story of missions and missionarys in wanting to help these children in third world countries!
It makes us think twice when we rumble and mumble about what we are lacking or wanting here in the states. Aren't we so blessed!!!!
Jennifer gives an insite in El Salvador the poverty and starvation because there aren't enough jobs to go around. Of all the ppl it's the children who suffer the most.
It's the children who brought tears to my eyes. I wanted to reach through the book and adopt every one of them and slide them to my house.
But of course, I couldn't do that.
I'm glad there are missionaries in real life that can help ppl like that.
Reading this story has made me realize what blessings I have in life that these ppl don't.
There's a song that says count your many blessings one by one. I'll never take it for granted again.
I loved watching God transform Brooke and ubaldo into two caring ppl.. I've especially loved watching Brooke.
We can't control who leaves us and who stays. Only God can. He is in control.
Fatima is a heroine. I love her because she's always looked out for her sister before herself. Not many siblings would do that I don't think do that.
This book was a different read for me. I very much enjoyed this story!
I also very strongly recommend this book!
Thank u Jennifer for such a touching story
You could see the love of God coming out of this author's heart as she writes this story of missions and missionarys in wanting to help these children in third world countries!
It makes us think twice when we rumble and mumble about what we are lacking or wanting here in the states. Aren't we so blessed!!!!
Jennifer gives an insite in El Salvador the poverty and starvation because there aren't enough jobs to go around. Of all the ppl it's the children who suffer the most.
It's the children who brought tears to my eyes. I wanted to reach through the book and adopt every one of them and slide them to my house.
But of course, I couldn't do that.
I'm glad there are missionaries in real life that can help ppl like that.
Reading this story has made me realize what blessings I have in life that these ppl don't.
There's a song that says count your many blessings one by one. I'll never take it for granted again.
I loved watching God transform Brooke and ubaldo into two caring ppl.. I've especially loved watching Brooke.
We can't control who leaves us and who stays. Only God can. He is in control.
Fatima is a heroine. I love her because she's always looked out for her sister before herself. Not many siblings would do that I don't think do that.
This book was a different read for me. I very much enjoyed this story!
I also very strongly recommend this book!
Thank u Jennifer for such a touching story
July 18, 2017
Um. Yeah. I loved this book.
I wasn’t sure what I would think of this book at the beginning. I have never been on a mission trip and was wondering how you could make an interesting story of someone going on one. I was silly to worry. Jennifer managed to do it.
And that is what I love about all of Jennifer’s books. She writes about missions in some way and weaves a wonderful plot and characters into that. She definitely has a unique style unlike any I have ever read and she does it well.
It’s funny, much of the story takes place with the two main characters not even together but in the short amount of time they are you know they belong together.
Fatima and Dinora captured my heart and I wanted them so desperately to see who they really were through Christ’s eyes. Their story alone is heart breaking and unfortunately all too true of what is actually happening today in the world.
Our main characters are wonderful too, both dealing with their own struggles, finding who they are as well.
I just have to mention Aubrey, Brooke’s sister, Jennifer did a great job depicting a teen-age girl (I know I live with one). Her attitude, she thinks knows everything. Great job.
By the end I was crying and that is the mark of a great book. Jennifer managed to touch my emotions with this one.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author. All opinions are my own.
I wasn’t sure what I would think of this book at the beginning. I have never been on a mission trip and was wondering how you could make an interesting story of someone going on one. I was silly to worry. Jennifer managed to do it.
And that is what I love about all of Jennifer’s books. She writes about missions in some way and weaves a wonderful plot and characters into that. She definitely has a unique style unlike any I have ever read and she does it well.
It’s funny, much of the story takes place with the two main characters not even together but in the short amount of time they are you know they belong together.
Fatima and Dinora captured my heart and I wanted them so desperately to see who they really were through Christ’s eyes. Their story alone is heart breaking and unfortunately all too true of what is actually happening today in the world.
Our main characters are wonderful too, both dealing with their own struggles, finding who they are as well.
I just have to mention Aubrey, Brooke’s sister, Jennifer did a great job depicting a teen-age girl (I know I live with one). Her attitude, she thinks knows everything. Great job.
By the end I was crying and that is the mark of a great book. Jennifer managed to touch my emotions with this one.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2018
Brook Endress was in search for fresh ideas to set her apart at the news station, but all her efforts were set aside as God stepped in with His own plan. Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery weaves a few different story lines in such a way that doesn't let you put this novel down.
Two countries that are extremely different hosted the events of several lives, which kept me wondering what could God make of all this? Slattery dug deep with my emotions of the unique cultural differences that I was not familiar with, but admire those who step forth in God's direction even though there could be a painful outcome. The lives of children and the depth of love makes this novel a must read.
Two countries that are extremely different hosted the events of several lives, which kept me wondering what could God make of all this? Slattery dug deep with my emotions of the unique cultural differences that I was not familiar with, but admire those who step forth in God's direction even though there could be a painful outcome. The lives of children and the depth of love makes this novel a must read.
July 23, 2017
A Beautifully Woven Story
I enjoy romantic fiction. Even better is when a romance has meaning and purpose to the story. Jennifer Slattery’s new book, Healing Love is one of those stories. Brooke is a career minded young woman who is focused on becoming a broadcast journalist. She finds herself side-tracked when she feels forced to go on a mission trip to El Salvador to chaperone her younger sister. She’s not prepared for the emotional impact the trip will have on her heart.
Looking hungry orphans in the eye, seeing the poverty children live in, and comparing that to the life of affluence back home causes her to re-examine her priorities. She finds herself drawn to the handsome translator, Ubaldo, who is their guide and driver for the trip. Ubaldo has pre-conceived ideas about visitors from North America and his prejudices are challenged when he meets Brooke and sees that she has true compassion. We also meet 12-year-old Fatima and her younger sister who end up homeless in order to avoid a painful and dangerous situation.
Can a group of affluent teens from America make a difference in El Salvador? Brooke and Ubaldo are attracted to each other but they live thousands of miles apart and come from different worlds. How could they ever have a relationship? Will Fatima and Dinora survive on the streets without food and water? Ubaldo is trying to help his people find a way out of poverty while he himself struggles to find a place to live.
Jennifer takes all these threads and weaves them into a beautiful story. She paints a clear picture of life in El Salvador and challenges us to consider reaching out beyond ourselves to help others. This book is written with humor, truth, and hope. It includes romance, faith, and gives us a glimpse into another culture. If you enjoy a fiction story that challenges you as well as giving you an entertaining story, you will like this book. I highly recommend Healing Love.
I received a copy of this book for review but in no way felt obligated to give a positive review.
I enjoy romantic fiction. Even better is when a romance has meaning and purpose to the story. Jennifer Slattery’s new book, Healing Love is one of those stories. Brooke is a career minded young woman who is focused on becoming a broadcast journalist. She finds herself side-tracked when she feels forced to go on a mission trip to El Salvador to chaperone her younger sister. She’s not prepared for the emotional impact the trip will have on her heart.
Looking hungry orphans in the eye, seeing the poverty children live in, and comparing that to the life of affluence back home causes her to re-examine her priorities. She finds herself drawn to the handsome translator, Ubaldo, who is their guide and driver for the trip. Ubaldo has pre-conceived ideas about visitors from North America and his prejudices are challenged when he meets Brooke and sees that she has true compassion. We also meet 12-year-old Fatima and her younger sister who end up homeless in order to avoid a painful and dangerous situation.
Can a group of affluent teens from America make a difference in El Salvador? Brooke and Ubaldo are attracted to each other but they live thousands of miles apart and come from different worlds. How could they ever have a relationship? Will Fatima and Dinora survive on the streets without food and water? Ubaldo is trying to help his people find a way out of poverty while he himself struggles to find a place to live.
Jennifer takes all these threads and weaves them into a beautiful story. She paints a clear picture of life in El Salvador and challenges us to consider reaching out beyond ourselves to help others. This book is written with humor, truth, and hope. It includes romance, faith, and gives us a glimpse into another culture. If you enjoy a fiction story that challenges you as well as giving you an entertaining story, you will like this book. I highly recommend Healing Love.
I received a copy of this book for review but in no way felt obligated to give a positive review.
July 28, 2017
Why does God allow suffering particularly among the innocent? It is a question that has troubled people for ages and was a question that I asked along with the hero and heroine of this book. There are no easy answers and there wasn’t an easy one for this couple either, but I really liked the way that the author was able to stir my compassion for those less fortunate than me. Full review at my website.
I received this book from the author. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed are my own.
I received this book from the author. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 16, 2017
Wow....just wow! What a beautifully written, God inspired book. This is just an amazing read that I can't find the proper words to describe. It will touch your heart in a profound way and leave you thinking about it for a long time. What a perfect example of how God finds us and uses us for His good plan when we least expect it. The characters are so believable that you can feel their joy, pain, and struggles. You can hear the sounds and see the poverty of El Salvador, as your heart bleeds for these orphans. This is not a fluff read, but has substance that is gripping. This is my second book I have read by Jennifer Slattery and I am so inspired by her written word that I can't wait to read more of her work. I feel this is a must read .
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
August 2, 2017
I loved this book, the reluctance, the conflict, the faith. This book made me want to go on a mission trip. Since I can't go right now, I can serve Him locally in our food pantry and soup kitchen.
I'd heard of someone complaining about sexual overtones in this book. Yes, there are light suggestions of incest and rape. But if we ignored all the bad situations in our world, aren't we condoning them. This is reality. Let's shed light on these evil situations and chase Satan away with God's enduring love.
Bad things happen to bring us closer to Him.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
I'd heard of someone complaining about sexual overtones in this book. Yes, there are light suggestions of incest and rape. But if we ignored all the bad situations in our world, aren't we condoning them. This is reality. Let's shed light on these evil situations and chase Satan away with God's enduring love.
Bad things happen to bring us closer to Him.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
August 16, 2017
Jennifer is a great author. I've really enjoyed reading her books and this one was not exception. Except it did take me a while to read through it, but mostly because I received and E-copy and I do not read as quickly on an e-reader.
I think one of the things I really enjoyed about this book was the missional feel. I could relate because I grew up on the mission field, have seen poverty first hand, and enjoyed ministering to those in need of the Savior and His love. I have felt the disappointment in seeing people have it all, but not seem to be thankful or realize how blessed they truly are. That's a feeling that Brooke Endress discovered first hand, after spending two weeks on the mission field, then returning to do a news special on the rich. It didn't take her long to recognize what had true value. Jennifer does a great job of getting the reader to feel a burden for those less fortunate, look for ways to help, and create an awareness of the needs in third world countries based on her own mission trip.
She also brought to life legitimate fears and concerns a person may feel when going on a mission trip, as well as, how God can create a burden in a person's heart that may cause them to seek ways to serve Him better, and the struggle between what we want and the greater need to surrender our personal desires to His will. Brooke was a girl with a potential news career. She has dreams and hopes for her future. For a while, after going on the mission trip - albeit a bit forced - I might add, she tried to fit God's plans into her box. But only when she truly surrendered to His will did she find real peace.
There were a few things about this book, I had a hard time with. At the beginning there was a lot of flip- flop back and forth between countries, characters, and I had a difficult time getting them all straight. Possibly part of that was due to reading it in e-book format and at times not getting back to the book for a couple of days. I also struggled with the romance part of the story. In and of itself, the concept was good, and I liked how it turned out. I just felt like it was too rushed. I would say it is a bit unusual for two people from different countries to literally fall in love in a matter of days. A spark, or an attraction would be natural, but I just felt like it moved too quickly.
Overall though, this story is inspirational and moving. It has a heart for missions and ministering to people. There was a bit of suspense wondering what would happen to two little girls who had escaped a difficult home life, and yet seemed to be even worse off on the streets. You kind of wondered how it all would turn out. I would recommend this book.
I received a free e-copy of this book from the author to read. I was not asked to review it positively and all opinions are my own.
I think one of the things I really enjoyed about this book was the missional feel. I could relate because I grew up on the mission field, have seen poverty first hand, and enjoyed ministering to those in need of the Savior and His love. I have felt the disappointment in seeing people have it all, but not seem to be thankful or realize how blessed they truly are. That's a feeling that Brooke Endress discovered first hand, after spending two weeks on the mission field, then returning to do a news special on the rich. It didn't take her long to recognize what had true value. Jennifer does a great job of getting the reader to feel a burden for those less fortunate, look for ways to help, and create an awareness of the needs in third world countries based on her own mission trip.
She also brought to life legitimate fears and concerns a person may feel when going on a mission trip, as well as, how God can create a burden in a person's heart that may cause them to seek ways to serve Him better, and the struggle between what we want and the greater need to surrender our personal desires to His will. Brooke was a girl with a potential news career. She has dreams and hopes for her future. For a while, after going on the mission trip - albeit a bit forced - I might add, she tried to fit God's plans into her box. But only when she truly surrendered to His will did she find real peace.
There were a few things about this book, I had a hard time with. At the beginning there was a lot of flip- flop back and forth between countries, characters, and I had a difficult time getting them all straight. Possibly part of that was due to reading it in e-book format and at times not getting back to the book for a couple of days. I also struggled with the romance part of the story. In and of itself, the concept was good, and I liked how it turned out. I just felt like it was too rushed. I would say it is a bit unusual for two people from different countries to literally fall in love in a matter of days. A spark, or an attraction would be natural, but I just felt like it moved too quickly.
Overall though, this story is inspirational and moving. It has a heart for missions and ministering to people. There was a bit of suspense wondering what would happen to two little girls who had escaped a difficult home life, and yet seemed to be even worse off on the streets. You kind of wondered how it all would turn out. I would recommend this book.
I received a free e-copy of this book from the author to read. I was not asked to review it positively and all opinions are my own.
July 21, 2017
Slattery has crafted an entertaining, informative and thought provoking novel. The plot centers around the short term mission trip a youth group makes to El Salvador, a developing country still recovering from a devastating hurricane and a bloody civil war.
I liked the main character, Brooke. She goes on the trip as an adult chaperone with her teen sister's church youth group. What Brooke experiences in El Salvador changes her life forever.
There are many great aspects to this novel. One is that it really gives the reader an idea of a short term mission trip. We read about the feelings some El Salvadorans may have regarding the visitors, that they come with money and a save-the-world attitude and leave making promises they never keep. On the other hand, we read about the sacrifices the teens are willing to make to go on this mission trip.
Another aspect of the novel is the exploration of feeling called by God to do a certain task or ministry. How does one know for sure? How does one respond to the critical comments of others who do not understand? How does one evaluate a profitable career against the call of God?
There are other issues for readers to think about too. What is the purpose of a short term mission trip, to change the person going or change the people being visited? What about dating someone from an entirely different culture? How do we feel about our extravagant lifestyles when others live in hovels with not enough food to eat?
The only thing missing in this novel was more description. I would have liked to be able to better visualize people and places in El Salvador.
I recommend this novel to teens and young adults who are interested in the impact of short mission trips. The characters you meet will tug at your heart. While you may not be able to change the world, you will be challenged with the possibility of changing one life.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I liked the main character, Brooke. She goes on the trip as an adult chaperone with her teen sister's church youth group. What Brooke experiences in El Salvador changes her life forever.
There are many great aspects to this novel. One is that it really gives the reader an idea of a short term mission trip. We read about the feelings some El Salvadorans may have regarding the visitors, that they come with money and a save-the-world attitude and leave making promises they never keep. On the other hand, we read about the sacrifices the teens are willing to make to go on this mission trip.
Another aspect of the novel is the exploration of feeling called by God to do a certain task or ministry. How does one know for sure? How does one respond to the critical comments of others who do not understand? How does one evaluate a profitable career against the call of God?
There are other issues for readers to think about too. What is the purpose of a short term mission trip, to change the person going or change the people being visited? What about dating someone from an entirely different culture? How do we feel about our extravagant lifestyles when others live in hovels with not enough food to eat?
The only thing missing in this novel was more description. I would have liked to be able to better visualize people and places in El Salvador.
I recommend this novel to teens and young adults who are interested in the impact of short mission trips. The characters you meet will tug at your heart. While you may not be able to change the world, you will be challenged with the possibility of changing one life.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 26, 2017
Healing Love can be categorized as a contemporary romance since it has a love story that develops throughout the book. But its message is so much more than that. If anything it tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with God’s people. Inspired by a mission trip the author’s family participated in, this dual setting novel (California and El Salvador) explores the desperate needs of people and our response to it. I really liked this one, and if you have a heart for missions and love a happily-ever-after ending, you will too!
Brooke Endress is two years out of grad school and pursuing her dream of working in broadcast journalism. Reluctantly she agrees to accompany her teenaged sister on a mission trip to El Salvador. As Brooke is confronted with the realities of the desperate life of poverty in that country, her whole perspective is turned upside down. Translator Ubaldo Calla has his worldview challenged as well when discovers that the beautiful North American is not the spoiled woman he thought, but deeply caring with a love for his home country.
The contrast between American life and the crippling poverty of El Salvador is uncovered in Healing Love. This novel brought the struggle of survival to life for this reader. Slattery doesn’t shy away from sharing the problems of El Salvador — poverty, child labor, sexual abuse, poor education. The missions team that Brooke accompanies makes an impression, but it is really long term action that is required to truly make a difference. I really liked the spiritual growth that Brooke and Ubaldo undergo as they heal relationships and touch lives.
Full of heart, faith, and love, Healing Love is a great story. It is one that will leave you thinking long after the last page is turned. It is an especially good choice for a book club or missions group.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
To purchase, click HERE. (It’s free for Kindle Unlimited!)
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Brooke Endress is two years out of grad school and pursuing her dream of working in broadcast journalism. Reluctantly she agrees to accompany her teenaged sister on a mission trip to El Salvador. As Brooke is confronted with the realities of the desperate life of poverty in that country, her whole perspective is turned upside down. Translator Ubaldo Calla has his worldview challenged as well when discovers that the beautiful North American is not the spoiled woman he thought, but deeply caring with a love for his home country.
The contrast between American life and the crippling poverty of El Salvador is uncovered in Healing Love. This novel brought the struggle of survival to life for this reader. Slattery doesn’t shy away from sharing the problems of El Salvador — poverty, child labor, sexual abuse, poor education. The missions team that Brooke accompanies makes an impression, but it is really long term action that is required to truly make a difference. I really liked the spiritual growth that Brooke and Ubaldo undergo as they heal relationships and touch lives.
Full of heart, faith, and love, Healing Love is a great story. It is one that will leave you thinking long after the last page is turned. It is an especially good choice for a book club or missions group.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
To purchase, click HERE. (It’s free for Kindle Unlimited!)
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
August 24, 2017
This book is probably classified as Inspirational Romance, but I kid you not, it's BIG on inspirational, and not just for the romance. I sniffle over orphans all the time, and this book has an armful of them.
Brooke Endress has a burning desire to become a news anchor, and she's well on the road when her little sis (Aubrey) all of a sudden wants to go on a mission to El Salvador. Which would be bad enough in an of itself, but her aunt and uncle say they won't let Aubrey go unless Brooke goes with Aubrey. No way. Everyone knows El Salvador is full of vicious gangs and unhealthy practices. No place for a germophobe.
Ubaldo is a teacher in El Salvador living on a shoestring, yet he finds the money to take medicine to his mama. Papa doesn't have much use for Ubaldo--thinks his son is "too good" for his poor farming family now that he has that fancy teaching job. What good was an education for a farming family? So Ubaldo's siblings had no education. He had to fight for his, and had. He can earn a little extra by being a translator for a bunch of Norte Americanos arriving for a mission trip.
Huh. The teenagers spend very little of a week or two with the children and lot of money on themselves, then make promises to return but never do. Why did they bother?
Brooke had no intention of doing anything but keeping her little sister safe, which she'd been doing since their parents were killed in a car wreck. But the orphanage children and two street children capture her heart. Oh--and then there's Ubaldo....
Hey, folks, this is FREE as an ebook on Amazon today and tomorrow! Since the author was so gracious in spending her own dime to offer this to you for free, would you be so kind as to give her a review on Amazon and Goodreads? It's also available on Barnes and Noble as a paperback.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The opinions and evaluations expressed are my own.
Brooke Endress has a burning desire to become a news anchor, and she's well on the road when her little sis (Aubrey) all of a sudden wants to go on a mission to El Salvador. Which would be bad enough in an of itself, but her aunt and uncle say they won't let Aubrey go unless Brooke goes with Aubrey. No way. Everyone knows El Salvador is full of vicious gangs and unhealthy practices. No place for a germophobe.
Ubaldo is a teacher in El Salvador living on a shoestring, yet he finds the money to take medicine to his mama. Papa doesn't have much use for Ubaldo--thinks his son is "too good" for his poor farming family now that he has that fancy teaching job. What good was an education for a farming family? So Ubaldo's siblings had no education. He had to fight for his, and had. He can earn a little extra by being a translator for a bunch of Norte Americanos arriving for a mission trip.
Huh. The teenagers spend very little of a week or two with the children and lot of money on themselves, then make promises to return but never do. Why did they bother?
Brooke had no intention of doing anything but keeping her little sister safe, which she'd been doing since their parents were killed in a car wreck. But the orphanage children and two street children capture her heart. Oh--and then there's Ubaldo....
Hey, folks, this is FREE as an ebook on Amazon today and tomorrow! Since the author was so gracious in spending her own dime to offer this to you for free, would you be so kind as to give her a review on Amazon and Goodreads? It's also available on Barnes and Noble as a paperback.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The opinions and evaluations expressed are my own.
August 31, 2017
Healing Love by Jennifer Slattery is a story that is unique and a must read! Whether you’ve been on a missions trip or dream of going on one one day, then this is for you. Slattery’s latest novel will tug at your heartstrings and challenge you to want to do something to help the orphans all over the world.
Told through three characters points of views all with different backgrounds is a story of desperation, compassion, and hope. Brooke is trying to climb the ladder in hopes of finally becoming a news anchor. At first she is kind of a diva, germ-a-phone who doesn’t want to go to El Salvador. While she was there she genuinely cared for the orphans of El Salvador and wanted to do all she could to help. Only if she knew how much El Salvador would mean to her in the end. Ubaldo is probably one of my favorite fictional male characters in awhile. He’s a believer but like most of us, struggles in his faith. He’s an El Salvadoran native who knows the struggles of poverty. Unlike most of those in his country, he was able to get an education. However, he does have struggles of his own. Like Brooke, he has a passion for helping those in poverty come out of it. Then there’s Fatima. Fatima is a child who knows poverty all too well. She comes from an abusive home and is forced to work out in the fields all day to earn her keep. Eventually she runs away with her younger sister, Dinora, becoming street children wondering if God abandoned them.
This story hit home for me. At times you will laugh, but many times I found myself tearing up. Slattery explains the realness of what’s going on in the country without degrading the El Salvadoran people and their culture. The author also makes the reader feels as if they’re a part of the story. The characters grow on you that they become like friends and family. The descriptions of San Miguel make you feel as if you were there seeing, smelling, and tasting for yourself.
The romance was well done as well! It was so swoon-worthy, but at times I found myself anticipating whether or not it was even going to happen. I’m so glad Slattery did what she did with this novel because it was amazing.
And most of all, the author kept it Gospel centered. It wasn’t just about leaving the comforts of America and going overseas to help the poor, it was about fully trusting God with everything and truly following Him. Jennifer Slattery is going to impact many of her readers with this novel.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Told through three characters points of views all with different backgrounds is a story of desperation, compassion, and hope. Brooke is trying to climb the ladder in hopes of finally becoming a news anchor. At first she is kind of a diva, germ-a-phone who doesn’t want to go to El Salvador. While she was there she genuinely cared for the orphans of El Salvador and wanted to do all she could to help. Only if she knew how much El Salvador would mean to her in the end. Ubaldo is probably one of my favorite fictional male characters in awhile. He’s a believer but like most of us, struggles in his faith. He’s an El Salvadoran native who knows the struggles of poverty. Unlike most of those in his country, he was able to get an education. However, he does have struggles of his own. Like Brooke, he has a passion for helping those in poverty come out of it. Then there’s Fatima. Fatima is a child who knows poverty all too well. She comes from an abusive home and is forced to work out in the fields all day to earn her keep. Eventually she runs away with her younger sister, Dinora, becoming street children wondering if God abandoned them.
This story hit home for me. At times you will laugh, but many times I found myself tearing up. Slattery explains the realness of what’s going on in the country without degrading the El Salvadoran people and their culture. The author also makes the reader feels as if they’re a part of the story. The characters grow on you that they become like friends and family. The descriptions of San Miguel make you feel as if you were there seeing, smelling, and tasting for yourself.
The romance was well done as well! It was so swoon-worthy, but at times I found myself anticipating whether or not it was even going to happen. I’m so glad Slattery did what she did with this novel because it was amazing.
And most of all, the author kept it Gospel centered. It wasn’t just about leaving the comforts of America and going overseas to help the poor, it was about fully trusting God with everything and truly following Him. Jennifer Slattery is going to impact many of her readers with this novel.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 27, 2017
Readers beware: this book is going to touch your heart in ways you didn't think possible from a book. The mission trip, Brooke's growth, the children of El Salvador and the living conditions there are all parts that certainly tugged at my heart. First I have to say that the way the author described the setting of El Salvador was incredible. Not just the surroundings, but the people, the mannerisms, the way of life. Only someone who has been there first hand could be able to do that, so I am guessing that she has. Ms. Slattery's love for this place and the Lord is very evident in this book.
The thing that I love about her writing is the way she incorporates sharing the gospel with her readers. Not once did I feel like she was preaching to me, or shoving it in my face. It is presented in a loving manner, and flows perfectly with the storyline. It renewed a desire in me to help others more in sharing the gospel, especially in under-privileged countries. If you have ever had even the tiniest desire to go on a missions trip, I encourage you to read this. Your heart will be begging you to go before you've even finished the book.
Although this is a fictional book, the storyline could and does really happen. What a beautiful way to open our eyes to the needs of people all over the planet. Not only their physical needs, but their need of Jesus and His love. I could read this book over and over again, and I imagine I would walk away with something different each time. This is definitely one of my favorites, and one that I will be enjoying for years to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The thing that I love about her writing is the way she incorporates sharing the gospel with her readers. Not once did I feel like she was preaching to me, or shoving it in my face. It is presented in a loving manner, and flows perfectly with the storyline. It renewed a desire in me to help others more in sharing the gospel, especially in under-privileged countries. If you have ever had even the tiniest desire to go on a missions trip, I encourage you to read this. Your heart will be begging you to go before you've even finished the book.
Although this is a fictional book, the storyline could and does really happen. What a beautiful way to open our eyes to the needs of people all over the planet. Not only their physical needs, but their need of Jesus and His love. I could read this book over and over again, and I imagine I would walk away with something different each time. This is definitely one of my favorites, and one that I will be enjoying for years to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 30, 2017
"Healing Love" is a wonderful story. While I was reading this novel I felt I was there watching the story take place in front of me and I convinced myself the emotions I felt was what the characters were feeling. If you are a reader who feels deep emotions when reading you might want to have some kleenexes handy while reading this novel.
The greatest heartache in this book was the plight of Fatima and her sister Dinora. This book shows how a mission trip changed 4 people lives in a big way. This book is about forgiveness between a father and son that love each other but pride had put a wall up that blocked the loved.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves clean love stories, yes this book is a love story but I also recommend this story for anyone that has been or anyone that is thinking about going on a mission trip, because "Healing Love" is a story of a mission trip.
I really enjoyed reading about the relationship between Brooke and Audrey who are sisters. I think I enjoyed this relationship because it reminded me of my relationship between my sister and me, no my parents are both living and I am the oldest but she is the one that takes care of me and keeps me safe, so even through the roles are reversed in real life the relationship is the same! If the readers of my blog want to know the story of how she kept me safe, on a trip, not a mission trip, but when we went to Women of Faith, just ask I will share. I am so thankful for my sister.
I really think everyone shall pick up a copy of "Healing Love",and be reminded again of what we have to be thankful for .
"Healing Love" is a life changing book even if it is fiction. It is definitely five stars!
I was given a complimentary copy by the author. These opinions are my own.
The greatest heartache in this book was the plight of Fatima and her sister Dinora. This book shows how a mission trip changed 4 people lives in a big way. This book is about forgiveness between a father and son that love each other but pride had put a wall up that blocked the loved.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves clean love stories, yes this book is a love story but I also recommend this story for anyone that has been or anyone that is thinking about going on a mission trip, because "Healing Love" is a story of a mission trip.
I really enjoyed reading about the relationship between Brooke and Audrey who are sisters. I think I enjoyed this relationship because it reminded me of my relationship between my sister and me, no my parents are both living and I am the oldest but she is the one that takes care of me and keeps me safe, so even through the roles are reversed in real life the relationship is the same! If the readers of my blog want to know the story of how she kept me safe, on a trip, not a mission trip, but when we went to Women of Faith, just ask I will share. I am so thankful for my sister.
I really think everyone shall pick up a copy of "Healing Love",and be reminded again of what we have to be thankful for .
"Healing Love" is a life changing book even if it is fiction. It is definitely five stars!
I was given a complimentary copy by the author. These opinions are my own.
July 16, 2017
I have heard it said many times through the years that a mission trip will change your life. I know people personally whose lives have been changed. Jennifer Slattery has written a beautiful story about the impact a mission trip has on some folks. When Aubrey decides she wants to go with a team of youth from her church to El Salvador, her aunt and uncle insist that the only way she will be allowed to go is if her sister Brooke goes with her. As Brooke struggles with the decision, she goes to talk with Pastor T who tells her it will change the way she sees things. Ultimately she realizes that she cannot deprive her sister of the experience, even if it disrupts her own life. After the death of their parents, she had promised Aubrey they would stick together. Meanwhile, a group of Christians in El Salvador are expecting another team to come in, minister for a week or two, make some promises, and never return. They have seen it happen too many times before but yet some short-term help seems better than no help at all. The author does not try to smooth over the difficulties for the mission team or the ones to whom they have gone to minister. Does the trip change Brooke’s life? Who else experiences change? Who benefits the most from the work of the mission team? Was the trip worth the expense and the effort exerted? Maybe you have never given much thought to getting involved, but this story may cause you to make some choices that will change your life. I encourage you to read this book. I received an electronic copy of the book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
July 10, 2017
`Healing Love` is an inspirational fiction novel by author Jennifer Slattery.
Brooke Endress is a news reporter with a chance in a lifetime of being a co-anchor on t.v. Her young sister, Aubrey, wants to go on a missions trip with the church youth group. Their parents say Brooke must go on the mission trip too if Aubrey goes. Brooke wants to stay home and be on t.v., she wants nothing to do with the mission trip.
Both girls go on the trip and work in an all girls orphanage. Brooke has fallen in love with the orphanage girls, she has an interest in one of the El Salvadoran male workers, too. She realizes once she gets back home, in America, she won't see these people again so she reminds herself she can't fall in love with these people, she is only here for two weeks.
I liked this book because it touches on every emotion, keeping the book interesting. There is a great twist at the end, and it sparked my interest in missionaries. Sometimes tears would come to my eyes, other times I experienced joy in how the orphans were treated at the orphanage. I once had a chance to go on a mission trip to Jamaica and I turned it down. Reading books like this makes me wonder how different my life would be if I had gone. I do regret not going, but maybe the timing wasn't right. There were some sexual overtones that I didn't care for, so I give this book 4* out of 5*.
I recommend this book to fans of inspirational fiction.
I would like to thank author Jennifer Slattery for sending me the ebook. All opinions are my own.
Brooke Endress is a news reporter with a chance in a lifetime of being a co-anchor on t.v. Her young sister, Aubrey, wants to go on a missions trip with the church youth group. Their parents say Brooke must go on the mission trip too if Aubrey goes. Brooke wants to stay home and be on t.v., she wants nothing to do with the mission trip.
Both girls go on the trip and work in an all girls orphanage. Brooke has fallen in love with the orphanage girls, she has an interest in one of the El Salvadoran male workers, too. She realizes once she gets back home, in America, she won't see these people again so she reminds herself she can't fall in love with these people, she is only here for two weeks.
I liked this book because it touches on every emotion, keeping the book interesting. There is a great twist at the end, and it sparked my interest in missionaries. Sometimes tears would come to my eyes, other times I experienced joy in how the orphans were treated at the orphanage. I once had a chance to go on a mission trip to Jamaica and I turned it down. Reading books like this makes me wonder how different my life would be if I had gone. I do regret not going, but maybe the timing wasn't right. There were some sexual overtones that I didn't care for, so I give this book 4* out of 5*.
I recommend this book to fans of inspirational fiction.
I would like to thank author Jennifer Slattery for sending me the ebook. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2017
Healing Love, Jennifer Slattery's best book yet! Healing. Yes, they all need healing, and love makes it possible.
Ubaldo lives in El Salvador. He is a teacher and translator living generational poverty. When he's asked to translate for Brooke's mission group, he prays they are impacted by what's around them. He is protective of his people and doesn't want them hurt.
Brooke is a rising news anchor. Will she be blinded by the advancement of her career, or the eyes of the orphans she meets on a mission trip to El Salvador? How does she know she's hearing God in her situation?
Ubaldo translates for the missionary team. Will they be impacted by the poverty around them, or only whisper empty promises from their place of contentment? Brooke wants this trip over with so she can get back to her aspirations of being an on-camera news anchor. But will this trip be just the break she needs?
The orphans, especially Fatima and her sister, Ubaldo, and Brooke, stole my heart. I felt like I was in El Salvador on this mission trip. Sometimes there are no answers to why God allows things to happen, but resting in His love brings hope and healing.
I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Ubaldo lives in El Salvador. He is a teacher and translator living generational poverty. When he's asked to translate for Brooke's mission group, he prays they are impacted by what's around them. He is protective of his people and doesn't want them hurt.
Brooke is a rising news anchor. Will she be blinded by the advancement of her career, or the eyes of the orphans she meets on a mission trip to El Salvador? How does she know she's hearing God in her situation?
Ubaldo translates for the missionary team. Will they be impacted by the poverty around them, or only whisper empty promises from their place of contentment? Brooke wants this trip over with so she can get back to her aspirations of being an on-camera news anchor. But will this trip be just the break she needs?
The orphans, especially Fatima and her sister, Ubaldo, and Brooke, stole my heart. I felt like I was in El Salvador on this mission trip. Sometimes there are no answers to why God allows things to happen, but resting in His love brings hope and healing.
I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
June 22, 2017
When Brooke Endress agreed to go on a mission trip to El Salvador with her sister, she was not exactly thrilled about it. Little did she know how much that mission trip would change her life. Throughout their trip, she found herself falling in love with the orphans and street children, as well as a certain translator, Ubaldo. When she gets home she struggles with her desire to become a news anchor and her strong desire to return to El Salvador. Is this truly what God wants for her life, or is it just a passing feeling?
I am so glad I got a chance to read this book. It was wonderful. I fell in love with Brooke and Ubaldo, and it gave me a glimpse into some of the struggles that children in other countries have to face. I could relate to how Brooke would fall in love with the orphans at the orphanage, and how she wanted to help, but wasn't quite sure what that help looked like for her. It was beautifully written, and again very relatable, I believe everyone that reads this book will agree. I love how the love of God, and His plan for each person is shown in this story. It is a romance, so if you love romance novels, you need to read this one! I highly, highly recommend it!
**I received a copy of this book free from the author in exchange for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I am so glad I got a chance to read this book. It was wonderful. I fell in love with Brooke and Ubaldo, and it gave me a glimpse into some of the struggles that children in other countries have to face. I could relate to how Brooke would fall in love with the orphans at the orphanage, and how she wanted to help, but wasn't quite sure what that help looked like for her. It was beautifully written, and again very relatable, I believe everyone that reads this book will agree. I love how the love of God, and His plan for each person is shown in this story. It is a romance, so if you love romance novels, you need to read this one! I highly, highly recommend it!
**I received a copy of this book free from the author in exchange for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2017
Healing Love – Book Review (5 stars)
An authentic story about following the call of Christ, Jennifer Slattery’s Healing Love takes a rare look at how missions work impacts not only those who serve, but the ones being served.
Life’s circumstances often dictate what we carry in our relational baggage; Slattery’s main characters American Brooke Endress and Salvadoran Ubaldo Chavez are no exceptions. From two completely different worlds, neither could anticipate what happens when their paths cross in his home country.
Healing Love offers readers a unique view of two parallel stories that eventually intersect in a completely “but God” manner. As someone who has traveled the globe for foreign missions, I particularly enjoyed the portions of the story offered from the local perspective of the people in El Salvador i.e., what often happens in missions teams “blow in, blow up and blow out”!
A page turning, can’t wait to see what happens next, realistic look at the daily struggles faced by true Christ-followers, and the beauty with which God’s plan unfolds for those with patience to see the plan through, Healing Love does not disappoint!
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided in exchange for this review.
An authentic story about following the call of Christ, Jennifer Slattery’s Healing Love takes a rare look at how missions work impacts not only those who serve, but the ones being served.
Life’s circumstances often dictate what we carry in our relational baggage; Slattery’s main characters American Brooke Endress and Salvadoran Ubaldo Chavez are no exceptions. From two completely different worlds, neither could anticipate what happens when their paths cross in his home country.
Healing Love offers readers a unique view of two parallel stories that eventually intersect in a completely “but God” manner. As someone who has traveled the globe for foreign missions, I particularly enjoyed the portions of the story offered from the local perspective of the people in El Salvador i.e., what often happens in missions teams “blow in, blow up and blow out”!
A page turning, can’t wait to see what happens next, realistic look at the daily struggles faced by true Christ-followers, and the beauty with which God’s plan unfolds for those with patience to see the plan through, Healing Love does not disappoint!
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided in exchange for this review.
September 18, 2017
Brook Endress with her “degree in broadcast journalism is stuck in a dead-end fact checking job.” All she has ever wanted is to be a journalist. Yet the competitive field is nothing like she imagined. “After her parents died, she retreated from life. Now it is time for her to laugh, love, and live. Time to surrender to God.” When her sister, Aubrey, finally convinces her to attend a two week mission trip to El Salvador, Brook agrees that they are “in it together no matter what.” Ubaldo Covas Callas has “wanted more from life than farming, than farming for pennies under the intense sun.” Despite the objections of his family, he has pursued his education and desires to improve the lives of his family and community. “He cannot save them all but he can impact the life of one.” As I followed the journey Brook takes, characters are introduced and became embedded in my heart. I was transported to another place. As this one mission changed Brook’s heart forever, I, too, found my heart changed. Fatima especially captured my attention as she fought for her life and the life of her sister Dinora.
Beautiful, endearing, heartfelt characters with their passion for life and for service, sweet, selfless romance all come together in this one, unforgettable story.
Beautiful, endearing, heartfelt characters with their passion for life and for service, sweet, selfless romance all come together in this one, unforgettable story.
July 21, 2017
At the beginning of this book, I honestly wasn't sure what to think. The opening line of the story grabbed me, but then I had a hard time keeping the story lines straight as the characters weaved in and out. Once I was able to connect the dots, this book was emotionally gripping, the pages were turning and "Healing Love" was fantastic. The best way to describe the writing is a story that is beautifully told by an author who has a heart for Kingdom business, which shines through in her writing. Slattery tells a story of a woman, Brooke who isn't sure the plans that God has for her life, but learns to lean in and follow his calling, which may lead her to Guatemala or it may lead her back to the United States for her career in the Television industry. Regardless of how the story ends, which there are no spoilers here, you will find emotion, love and wrestle with some of the very same questions yourself as the reader. This book was very enjoyable and if you have never read a book by Jennifer Slattery, I highly recommend that you do! I give this book 5/5 stars. A favorable review was not required.
June 22, 2017
Brooke Endress is about to fulfill her dream of becoming a TV Co-Host when her sister begs her to go with her on a mission trip to El Salvador. Brooke wants no part of this trip but doesn’t want to let her sister down so she agrees to go. While there, Brooke’s heart is endeared to the orphans at the orphanage and she is saddened by the desperation in the eyes of these little ones. Brooke also becomes attracted to their translator, Ubaldo, but she tries to fight those feelings knowing she will go back home and never see him again. Once home, Brooke cannot forget those orphans or Ubaldo and prays and prays asking for God’s guidance on what to do...what does He want her to do with her life? Will she go back? Will she stay in the states and take the TV position? Jennifer Slattery has really touched my heart with this book and I intend to help where I can with the poor children in Mexico where we go each year. I highly recommend this book and challenge you to ask God where you can help too.
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