When a reality TV star meets the reality of life, will it be her downfall or her salvation?
Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. Now she knows what was missing in her life--peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is--or at least who he thinks she is.
Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets?
Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?
Miralee Ferrell and her husband, Allen, live on eleven acres in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where they love to garden, play with their dogs, take walks, and visit their grown children. She is also able to combine two other passions—horseback riding and spending time with her married daughter—since she lives nearby--and they often ride together on the wooded trails near their home.
Ironically, Miralee, now the author of over twenty books, with many more on the way, never had a burning desire to write—at least more than her own memoirs for her children. So she was shocked when God called her to start writing after she turned fifty. To Miralee, writing is a ministry that she hopes will impact hearts, and she anticipates how God will use each of her books to bless and change lives.
“When a reality TV star meets the reality of life, will it be her downfall or her salvation? Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. Now she knows what was missing in her life--peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is--or at least who he thinks she is. Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets? Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?”
Series: Book #1 in a new series that each have/will have movies connecting to them produced by UP TV.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are mentioned & talked about; Many Prayers; Many Talks about God & praying; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Ann wonders if it’s okay to go back to God after not paying attention to Him for a couple of years; Many mentions of God, Jesus, & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & devotions; Mentions of churches, church going, youth gatherings, & ministers; Mentions of faiths, Christians, & being one; Mentions of the Amish, their beliefs, baptism, & shunnings; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; Mentions of sinners & sinning; A mention of thanking God; *Note: A mention of Mother Nature.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sheesh’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘idiot’s, and five ‘stupid’s; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of eye rolling; Mentions of a death in fighting a war/battle (Ann’s father); Mentions of a car accident; Mentions of injuries & blood/bleeding; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & bars; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; A few mentions of drugs; A few mentions of gossip & rumors; A couple mentions of crimes; A couple mentions of tobacco; *Note: Mentions of designer clothing brands; Mentions of car brands.
Sexual Content- a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and four semi-detailed kisses; Wanting a kiss (semi-detailed); Remembering a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Embraces (up to semi-detailed); Blushes & Flirting; Noticing & Staring; A guy is called ‘yummy’ twice; Many mentions of being asked out, dates, dating, boyfriends, girlfriends, exes, & breakups; Mentions of kissing & kisses; Mentions of flirting, flirts, & being smitten with someone; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of blushes; A few mentions of crushes; A couple mentions of flings; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Ann Stanway, age 25 -Hunter Lewis, age 27 P.O.V. switches between them, Scott, & a couple others 265 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Pre Teens- One Star New Teens- One Star (and a half) Early High School Teens- Two Stars Older High School Teens- Three Stars My personal Rating- Three Stars When I first heard the plot about this book, I became curious! It sounded like a fun and entertaining read. And “Runaway Romance” met those expectations. There was a lot of Spiritual Content for a book on the smaller side. I’ll admit that it took be a bit to get into it (mainly because of Scott who thinks he’s all that and a bag of chips; well, let me just say, he ain’t.) I liked Ann, but found that Hunter could have been a bit more developed character-wise. Overall, it was a cute read and felt like a movie script (which makes sense. ;)). I’m looking forward to watching the movie based on this book and reading the next book when it comes out.
I enjoyed this romantic saga that had depth and a je ne sais quoi compelling way about it. Annie learns much after leaving a reality show and visits an Amish village. Sarah gives her God fearing advice and shows her how to guide her life. Hunter does that too but he is a caring handsome love interest. This was a great read and an enjoyable one.
I enjoyed this romantic saga that had depth and a compelling way about it. Annie learns much after leaving a reality show and her fiancee who starred with her. She visits an Amish village and gains spiritual guidance from Sarah, who shows her how to guide her life. Hunter does that too but he is a caring handsome love interest. The characters and plot were well developed and I want to find out what happens to all of them in a future book.
Um… okay. The storyline is a clever idea. I liked the idea of someone getting fed up with Hollywood and the sham of reality TV. One of the things I liked most was the idea of the juxtaposition of reality TV star with the Amish.
I’ll be honest. I wanted to love this book. There was so much about it in its favor. I just didn’t. It didn’t take long before I was rooting for liking it. By midway… I settled for finding it just “okay.”
And that’s all it ever became. “Okay.”
Usually, when I read a book I don’t love, I do love the characters or the setting or the humor… the writing… something. But this time… well, I still love the premise. It’s an interesting idea. I don’t dislike the book, but none of the things that draw me into a book happened in this one.
Romance? Oh, yeah. It was there. And it wasn’t even too sappy! I didn’t need Claritin at all. But the relationship was crazy fast. Look, my parents met and married in six weeks. I have read lots of books where people fall in love in just a couple of weeks. But seriously, everyone in the book seemed to have instant attraction and connection that went way too fast. Chemistry—non-existent.
I’m working hard here to find something that I really liked about the book. And honestly, it’s the concept. I just can’t rave about the execution. I asked for a review copy and I just wish I could have written a more raving one.
Who might love this book?
Romance junkies—folks who just love to see a girl finally get a decent guy. Folks who love to see the Amish in a bit of a different light. People who love happily ever afters.
And based on a couple of reviews, I’ll be checking out a couple of Miralee Ferrell’s other books. It sounds like they might be more my speed. :)
This is a great read about faith, forgiveness and trust. I think faith is the strongest point here. I love that this story also takes place in Cave City Kentucky. I only live a few hours away!! I'm very familiar with Cave City since I live in Kentucky. ! The caves are just awesome in that area. It's amazing beauty what God can create just so we can enjoy! There are certain things that I loved about this book. Ann learns life lessons the hard way just like I do. I love how she just walks out on everyone and doesn't look back. The very thing I can't do!! I'd feel so guilty!! I guess that this is where trusting in God comes in. I enjoyed how she made friends easily and the only real thing that I didn't like was her deception to everyone. That's what I mean about Karma coming back around. Sarah is a sweetheart. I enjoyed meeting her. I felt as if she were my friend to!! When Sarah hurt, I hurt. I felt as if I was looking at myself in the mirror because like Sarah, I wear my heart on my sleeve. I'd do anything for anyone. I wasnt real sure about Jimmy. Hunter was a surprise!! I won't really say anything about him except I wanted to take him in my arms and console him. Hubba Bubba!!! Oh my!! Scott was a puppet in my eyes. I hate to say this but in a way I really did like him. Some things were out of his control and he couldn't help it. I also believe that this is where forgiveness comes in. Veronica was a piece of work altogether. She's one of those people that I'd rather stay away from. She is one that if things don't go her way, then she takes it out on people who are around her and she doesn't care. I laughed at her in the end. I love how things come together when you let God take control. He is there no matter what. I've come to enjoy Contemporary Christian because of authors like Miralee and many others. It's a very refreshing read from historical fiction. I enjoyed all the characters in this book. I hated to say goodbye. I'm hoping there will be a sequel soon! I received this book for free.. I was In no way required to review this book All words are my own opinion and I strongly recommend this book for people who love reading contemporary Christian. Oh and you heard? This book will be turned into a movie! It's scheduled to air Jan 7th on UP T.V.!!
Runaway Romance is about Ann/Annie, a supporting player on a family reality show (think Keeping up with the Kardashians) who escapes her glamorous Hollywood lifestyle once she realizes the show wasn't as real as she thought. She ends up in a small Kentucky town, staying at an Amish inn and rediscovering her true self.
I really liked Annie, though I did question how she could've been part of a reality show for three years without realizing just how scripted/contrived it was. That said, I really enjoyed watching Annie grow and reconnect with her faith as she spent time in Cave City. Her friendship with Amish inn owner Sarah was sweet, and I loved the minor plot line revolving around Carla, a homeless woman Annie and Hunter befriended. In fact, I thought the Carla story line was the strongest plot thread in the novel, and I wish it would've been more prominent!
As for the romance, it was fine, but I didn't really connect with it. Part of that may have to do with the dialogue, which I felt was a little stilted. Also, while the novel is mainly written from Annie and Hunter's perspectives, certain sections shifted to Scott's (Annie's ex), his mother's, and a few others' points of view, and I found the shifts to be a bit jarring.
I did like the premise of the novel, and I think it will make a really enjoyable film. (It's airing on UP TV in January.) I'm discovering that I'm pickier about my books than my movies—maybe because the act of reading makes me feel more closely connected to a book and more judgmental of its flaws. So while Runaway Romance the novel wasn't my favorite, you can bet there'll be a viewing of Runaway Romance the movie in my future!
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
We have all heard “you can’t judge a book by its cover”. Have you ever heard anyone say “you can’t judge a book by its title”? I think that applies to this book. The title is fine, but only a few chapters into the story, we find the leading lady running from romance, or so it seems. She leaves the reality show and her life in L.A. to drive across country, not knowing where she is going. I believe God knew all along where she was going and why she was going there. Somewhere in her journey of life, Annie had left God on a side rail. He needed to get her to a place where He could get her attention. The slow pace of an Amish inn seems like a good place for that to happen. The characters are all flawed in one way or another but each of the main characters served as a catalyst to help Annie find what was important and how to get back on track. Some helped her to realize what she did not want while others drew her toward what she did want for her future. I enjoyed the way Miralee Ferrell packed a powerful message of hope and renewal into the book. It goes much deeper than a romance story. This is a story that will cause readers to stop and evaluate where they are spiritually, relationally, and otherwise. I received an advance copy of the book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I absolutely loved this book, it was very well written and kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. finished it in just a couple days it was that good. Can not wait for the next book of these characters to come out to see what happens next.
I would like a show of hands please. How many have looked at or glanced at a Reality Show? I confess that I was curious and watched a show about Jon &Kate. They were the couple who had twins and then surprise they had more babies then they could handle. I was intrigued by their story but soon grew weary of the exploitation of the kids. It became more about them being paraded around and stared at as if they were on display. This brings me to the book I just finished. Annie happens to be on a Reality show with her boyfriend Scott. When a decision is made to go in a new direction with her character, Annie decides she needs a break.
I really like Annie and how she stood up for being mistreated and walked away from a very prestigious career. I loved how she realized that she wasn’t really part of the family, only a pawn for better ratings. To everyone’s surprise she leaves and tells no one where she is going. She needs to get far away from Hollywood and find a quiet little town to think. I found her leaving showed a very strong side to her character. She was finally standing up for herself.
When she lands in Amish country I loved where the story was going. A city girl out in the middle of nowhere meets Amish country. I found her character willing to adjust to her new environment quite well. Sarah is a sweet woman who takes Annie in. They soon find out that God has placed them together for a reason, Can Annie help Sarah get through her grief of losing her husband?
How long will it be before someone recognizes who Annie really is? Hunter seems to really have feelings for Annie, but will her secret ruin their relationship? I though Hunter was an honest and very caring person. He doesn’t want to get hurt, but will Annie open up and tell him who she is, before the truth is revealed?
As a side story there was the mysterious older women who showed up in town one day. She doesn’t remember who she is or how she got there. The town makes sure she has food but wonder if anyone is looking for her. The author does a great job of bringing this mystery to the storyline and gets Annie & Hunter to play detective. Is someone looking for Carla ? Can Hunter and Annie help her find her family? I liked how Carla was not ignored because of the way she looked. People wanted to help her and it is a great reminder not to judge people for the way they look.
The story is fun to read and I loved how each character is looking for answers from God. Can Sarah’s inn become successful? Will Hunter learn who Annie really is? Can Annie find what she is looking for in a little Amish town? Will someone come forward and recognize Carla? Thank I’m excited to hear that the book is going to be a TV movie soon. I look forward to seeing the characters in the movie. It’s a great story that explores acceptance, trust, secrets and listening to God. Be sure and grab a copy .
I received a copy of this book from a Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Runaway Romance is a contemporary romance by Miralee Ferrell set in an inn near a small Amish town and is the first of a series. This is not the first book I’ve read by Ms. Ferrell and I was pleased to get a chance to read another one. However, I am not sure I will read the next book in this series.
Ann “Annie” Stanway is the main character. At the beginning of the book, she is the girlfriend of a reality show star and appears on the show as well. She’s likable and is blindsided when she discovers her relationship will be ending to improve the show’s ratings. Annie is kind and as a celebrity, is worried about other people finding out where she’s from, so she doesn’t share details about herself when she breaks down near an Amish inn after running away from Los Angeles.
Hunter Lewis is the other main character, and he’s nice. He’s nice to Annie, to Sarah the innkeeper, to Carla the homeless woman, to everyone. And he hates liars as he’s been in relationships before with women who lie and manipulate. His personality is basically reduced to these two characteristics.
And once Hunter stated he could stand liars, I knew exactly what the “misunderstanding” that would hamper Hunter and Annie’s fledgling relationship was going to be. Hunter finds out about Annie’s real identity and doesn’t let her explain why she felt the need to keep it secret. There’s even the “you’re just like all the other liars” argument before he leaves.
This book is predictable in other ways, as well. I knew who was going to reveal Annie’s identity fairly early in the book, and the setup for the next book in the series was painfully obvious. The writing style itself is fine, though the dialogue is stilted. It makes sense for our Amish characters but awkward for the worldly main characters. I was never able to completely immerse myself in the story and would have appreciated more descriptions of the settings.
The book’s message of learning to trust God in our lives is an important one and is handled well. The characters make frequent references to their beliefs and all struggle to live their faith when their own desires clash with what they feel called to do.
The story involving Carla, the homeless woman, is very touching and I’m glad it was included. However, I felt more emotion when her plot was resolved than I did with the main characters throughout the entire book, which I’m sure was not the intent of the author.
I’ve enjoyed previous books by Ms. Ferrell. However, I am disappointed to say that I cannot recommend Runaway Romance due to the lack of emotional connection I felt with the main characters and the predictability of the plot. I want to be surprised, and nothing about this book surprised me.
I give Runaway Romance 2/5 stars.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.**
Who doesn't love a sweet romance??? Well, I must admit that when I first read the title and looked at the cover, I thought, "Here we go again! Girl meets boy, falls in love, meets challenges along the way... then live happily ever after! HOWEVER......Miralee Ferrell approaches this novel in a unique fashion grabbing my attention by the end of the first chapter and holding me captive until the last page.
The plot was one that was VERY different from the norm. Who hasn't heard of Reality Shows? In this day and age, we meet them every time we turn on the TV. The reader encounters a Hollywood style existence with the typical problems with the nosy , irritating media, the lifestyle of the rich and somewhat famous, as well as the simple, quiet style of the Amish community. Two extremely different worlds, but Ann, the main character, attempts to deal with both!! NOT willingly though! The many twists and turns throughout the book are unexpected and constantly throw the reader for a loop. The Amish , as well as the movie star type characters both had many lessons to learn, the most important being that honesty truly is the best policy. God guides us through the rough patches of life but only if we accept His forgiveness as well as display the same quality to others.
The characters are so vividly and realistically described that I easily identified with them and walked along side them on their very rocky road of life. At times, they irritated me, made me want to shake them up and at others, I wanted to give them a big hug and reassure them that through God's love and acceptance, all problems can be solved. To me, that is a requirement for a book to be a good one! Miralee has the ability to draw me into the story and live with the characters for a short while.
This is a five star book! Walk in someone else's shoes for a short while!! I am now eagerly awaiting this author's next new book!
This book was received as a gift. The opinions and thoughts expressed are honest and my own.
It's been sometime since I read a Miralee Ferrell novel. I loved her work when I read her Love Finds You books, but I hadn't read them in a long time. So, when the opportunity arose for me to review her new book, Runaway Romance, I jumped. It sounded intriguing and not like what I am used to from her and I couldn't wait to jump into it. I was very happy that I did!
This book is filled with fun loving characters. I was instantly hooked on Ann and Hunter's characters and they both settled into my heart to stay. I loved the way Ann fell in love with the Amish Inn and their way of living. I feel the same way when I go to Amish country! And Hunter, bless him! I loved his character so much. I really felt for him, watching him be a little cautious when it came to Ann. My momma self came out when his character was introduced.
In Miralee Ferrelly fashion, she throws in a few characters that you will either love, or love to hate. I enjoyed getting to know ALL of the characters within the pages of this new book. Each one brought something different to the tables and really kept me turning the pages long into the night.
This is definitely a 5 star book! I highly recommend it to all who are looking for a book on trusting God, forgiving and learning to accept His will. The characters will take you on a whirlwind ride and leave you wanting more! I am definitely looking forward to more books like this in the future from Ms. Ferrell. Well done!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
When Ann realizes the reality TV world she’s been living in is not at all reality, she needs a break. So she leaves her home, her job, and her fiancé.
With little idea where to go other than the home she once knew with her grandparents, to find the person she was with her family, she heads east from LA. An accident leaves her stranded in Cave City, Kentucky. A town where Amish and Englischers exist together, it’s quiet and simple rhythm allowing her to take time to figure out who she truly is.
But hiding her identity from the people she’s beginning to consider friends—and one she’s attracted to despite her hesitancy to get into another relationship—is weighing on her.
The story is a bit predictable, but let’s face it, that’s exactly why we watch movies and read books like this. Sometimes knowing what’s ahead makes a story more enjoyable.
The setting and peek into the Amish community gives readers a little nostalgia for simpler times. When life wasn’t ruled by cell phones, emails, and social media. When you took a drive to enjoy the scenery instead of getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible. When friendships and conversation where more important than to-do lists.
Disclosure statement: I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Reality TV star Ann Stanway finds herself getting a reality check of her own in this timely novel by award-winning author Miralee Ferrell. Suddenly, Ann’s seemingly picture-perfect life in Hollywood comes to a screeching halt—or did it ever really exist in the first place? Reeling, Ann flees Los Angeles and begins a journey of self-discovery when she unexpectedly winds up in a small Kentucky town. She finds a true friend in Sarah, a kind young Amish woman, and she meets an attractive man, but how much of herself is she willing to share? Can she move beyond the façade of her former life and embrace a simpler life?
With issues germane to today’s high-speed, technologically-driven society, Miralee Ferrell crafts a compelling story about the importance of faith, love, and finding oneself. In a world where everyone seems to be looking for a claim to fame, books like “Runaway Romance” remind us of what is truly important. Endearing characters enhance the plot and emphasize the value of friendship and caring for one another, and the insights into Amish life are intriguing. “Runaway Romance” is a stimulating, inspirational story for all ages, and it is also an UP TV premiere movie set to release in early 2018.
Miralee Ferrell’s book, Runaway Romance, is not only an interesting story about actors and actresses, but it’s going to be a movie on UP TV, too!
Ann Stanway thought life couldn’t be any better. She and the love of her life, Scott Adson, starred in the blockbuster reality show, Life with the Adsons. However, things aren’t as rosy as they seem, leaving her reeling. Hurt and confused she takes a trip to get away and ends up in a charming Amish community in Cave City, Kentucky.
The juxtaposition of a Hollywood lifestyle and an Amish way of living is striking. Ann’s turmoil over what was real and what her perception of reality was creates an intriguing dichotomy. As she tries to navigate her way through a quagmire, some of her own making, she begins to realize her real problem is not being true to her faith.
The characters run the gamut from sweet and endearing to cruel and calculated, making you love some of them and be repulsed by others. The novel is well-written, and the characters well developed. The plot is unique and out of the ordinary, with not just romance, but a small touch of mystery, too.
I received Runaway Romance from the author. However, I was under no obligation to write a review.
This is not my typical genre of choice, but the cover caught my eye and I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did.
Ann Stanway became an overnight star on a "reality" show when Scott asked her out on a date when he met her at one of her catering jobs. She gave some small thought to getting a role in a show, but her main passion is cooking. Ann is a sweet girl, and she believed that the reality show she was on was real, that the relationship she had with Scott was real - until they told her she was too squeaky clean and they were going to give Scott a new love interest! Say what??? Eyes opened Ann runs and ends up in an Amish Community in Kentucky and is now Annie Farley.
Sarah offers Annie a place to stay and it's there she meets Hunter, and architect in town. Instant connection between Hunter and Annie, but she isn't sharing all her secrets, and Hunter wants nothing to do with a liar, even lies of omission.
There is quite a bit of growing up, finding forgiveness, and learning just who they are, especially in their relationship with the Lord.
I really enjoyed this story. The Amish side of it was also interesting - an Englisher girl needs to understand the mindset of the Amish before she goes about trying to change her friend Sarah's life!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK Annie’s life was prefect, with her reality show and the perfect boyfriend. But then she finds out that life isn’t as perfect as it seems. She soon finds herself at an Amish inn, and then her life really did change.
It’s always fun to read about someone living life in the fast lane somehow ends up around Amish people. And this is what happened to Annie. The relationship she forms with the owner of the inn was sweet to watch develop. As well as meeting others around the Amish community. And of course there’s always Romance, which played a sweet part of the story. A story that is pretty predictable, but I like that sometimes, being able to know what’s coming. The thing is, wondering how the author will play it all out. And Ms. Ferrell does a very nice job of weaving it all together and creating a wonderful warm, and yes sweet story for all of us to enjoy! I encourage you to pick up a copy of Runaway Romance for a few hours of enjoyment!
A copy of Runaway Romance by Miralee Ferrell was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
My favorite character was the Amish Inn owner, Sarah, who found a way to stand up for herself while living her faith out to Ann. In my opinion, the best way for faith to be written into stories is by showing how the characters live it out and Miralee does that with Sarah. The story is really a hybrid between your everyday contemporary Christian Fiction and Amish Fiction, dwelling in both worlds. While I think that this is a unique premise and I enjoyed having some variety within the story, I also struggled with what it was supposed to be as it didn't seem to belong to either "world." That said, Amish fiction is not normally my thing, so that may have been some of the difficulty getting into this story. I did really enjoy seeing the other side of a reality TV star. I'm not a big fan of reality TV, but I do know that we as a culture, and me included, can tend to forget they're real people with feelings, and so I enjoyed the view into Ann's life and the difficulties that come with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
"Runaway Romance" was a cute story. I figured at some point, Ann's L.A. life would catch up with her and kept wondering when it was going to happen. There were twists I didn't expect which was fun for me to not have it all figured out. There were several characters that the book follows: Ann Stanway, Scott Adson, Veronica Adson, Annie Farley, Hunter Lewis, and Jimmy Snyder. It was interesting to see things from everyone's perspective. I felt Ann's frustration and confusion and the hopelessness that Annie felt when her two lives converged. I kept wondering how the movie would show a certain thought or feeling one of the characters was having. The Biblical message was sound and well placed and the growth in the characters' lives was evident. I can't wait for the next book and hope to be able to see the movie, too.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for reviewing.
Runaway Romance effectively combines the cut-throat cultures of reality TV with the simple Amish community life to tell a story of second chances and forgiveness. Annie and Hunter are both “damaged goods,” having been scarred by relationships gone bad, yet both are open to the gentle leading of Sarah, who despite her grief at being widowed, has a strong faith in God’s goodness. I liked Annie who was resilient in the face of hurt and misunderstanding. There were a couple of times I laughed out loud at her foibles while trying to fit into the Amish community. I enjoyed learning about the Amish and their belief system. All the characters were well-developed, including the “bad guys.” I would have liked more description of the setting, but that is personal preference, not a criticism. A highly enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book for free from CelebrateLit Publicity, and a favorable review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own
What a super enjoyable romance read! I didn't know until I was leaving my review, that is is about to be a movie. However, I was thinking it would be a good one. This book is just in-depth enough, and just light enough too. It has a strong balance. Ann has been on one of those whacky reality TV series. It's not all sunshine and roses so she winds up off the set and in Amish country. She's following God's leading for her life, but I'm not so sure she realized it at the time. While off set, she meets Hunter. He's a good character as well. Both have realistic baggage, aka past issues.
I really liked Ann/Annie, she is so well written. I love the forgiveness and following God's plan for your life themes, even if the plot was a tad predictable. I think this was the first book I have read by this author.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review, thoughts and opinions are all my own, left of my own free will.
Runaway Romance By: Miralee Ferrell I really enjoyed Runaway Romance. The title is very good for this book. The story and the characters both were well developed . I was hooked at the start and did not want to put it down. Miralee Ferrell weaves a wonderful story with a very powerful message into this story. The leading lady , Ann Stanway, of a reality show runs away when she finds out things are not they are suppose to be on the show. She wants to get as far away as possible. Away from everyone , the media too . She ends up in Kentucky , at an Amish inn . Can she stay there after the way she has been living. Will they find her ? Will anyone here recognize her ? Will she ever find anyone that will love her for herself and not who she use to be? I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that Im had to give a positive review.
I am so glad this book is going to be a movie, while reading it I felt like I was watching a movie. Such an enjoyable book. Annie/Ann is on a reality show but gets kick off the show for a short time, she is not happy about it so she gets away and ends up in a Amish community and no one knows where she is. She meets Hunter who is not Amish while she is there. She stays at an Amish Inn own by Sarah who is Amish. I wish I could visit there myself. I really loved the interaction between the characters, Annie and Sarah were both my favorite characters. This is a first in a series and I definitely look forward to reading the next book. You will love this book and any book by Miralee Ferrell. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author for an honest review but not required.
Miralee Ferrell books normally make me stop and think. This one is no different. The premise behind the story is that sometimes we need to come back to reality and have faith. Things do not always appear as they seem. I love how forgiveness and trust are shown to be very important. In order to move forward we all must learn how to forgive those who have done wrong toward us. Being able to trust one another is another fact of life. Annie runs away from what she thought was a "real" life romance when she finds that she was just a pawn in a reality show. However, with no where to go, she finds herself stuck in backwoods of Kentucky. However, after a few days, she finds that she really is just a country girl. And when "reality" meets real life, Ann must defend her decisions. Did she make the right ones? Can she protect those that she has come to love?
Runaway Romance is an entertaining and touching contemporary romance with a tender Amish connection. Ferrell’s highly likable style is smooth and comfortable; it is easy to see why this book has been chosen to become a movie!
I’d always suspected that the “reality show” genre was anything but real and its depiction in this book is spot-on! My heart goes out to Ann (aka Annie) as she struggles to find her true self beyond the tug of Tinseltown. The ripple effect of her faith being rekindled and the eyes of her heart opened is felt by all who are part of her life. It will be a treat to continue reading the adventures of Ann, Hunter and Sarah!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
Ann Stanway decides she needs time away from Scott Adson to think about the most recent development in his family’s reality TV show. To get the distance she seeks, she leaves town. That right there intrigued me and ensured there would be more to this story than romance. There’s nothing else predictable about this story, either, only a cast of heart-warming characters against opposition you love to dislike. I read this in mostly one sitting (had to break for food) to find out how the author would resolve the conflict without inflicting serious harm to one or more very likeable characters. Clara’s story added additional reader interest and insight to the main characters. I look forward to the second book and reading more about Hunter, Ann, and Sarah.
When I first saw this book it caught my attention, than I saw that it was to become a tv movie and I just had to read it!! I love reading books than watching the movie(can't wait till it premeres in jan!!)
Anyway this was the other book I hinted at when I said I had or was reading twobooks involving reality tv stars.....would I read more like this thats a yes...especially if this story continues!
I really enjoyed the story. I loved Annie, And kinda sorta hated Scott, but moreso his mother from the begining. I was so glad when she said enough and planned her escape!! I wish she could have taken her pa with her, the poor girl coud have used a break too. i received a copy of this free in exchange for my honest opinion https://booksnbaubles.com/runaway-rom...
When reality tv ends up being more scripted than real, Ann Stanway finds herself seeking solace in a place as far from L.A. as she can possibly get…and with the Amish, no less! But the change of pace has Ann re-considering her life and what true, meaningful relationships are.
Runaway Romance is a hybrid story of Contemporary meets Amish fiction. I found it to be a quick, yet delightful read and really enjoyed the various characters and vast differences between modern and Amish living. And after you’ve read the book, get ready to watch the movie!! The movie premier releases on UPtv on Jan. 7, 2018. 🙂
I was graciously provided a free copy of this novel from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.
If you are looking for a cute book with a movie tie in later, pick up this one. Reality TV, (which is common these days), meets real life in this story when the main character has her "screen life" tinkered with. I don't usually read stories with anyone Amish in them, but that factor was not highly focused on, so don't be afraid to pick it up if that is why you would avoid it.
This would make a fun Christmas vacation read, as the movie is going to be coming out on Hallmark channel in January, I believe! I enjoyed this easy read and I am sure you would too.
I obtained this book from the author. The opinions contained herein are my own.
"Runaway Romance" by Miralee Ferrell is a realistic story about a reality story. I recommend this book to anyone that likes reality shows, and I recommend it to anyone that doesn't like them. This is also a clean love story. The Amish thread makes this also a good read for lovers of the Amish genre. So I guess I would say this novel would be a good read for most readers. Such a fun read!
I liked most of the characters, but I have to say that Scott is definitely a Mommy's boy and I am glad that she isn't my mom!
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
Ann Stanway moves to Hollywood as a Caterer. She meets Scott Adson who asks her to be a part of his reality show. After awhile Ann realizes that the reality show isn't really reality, she decides she needs to take a break. She ends up in a small Amish town where she meets a few people who have a huge impact on her life - including Hunter who has a big heart. While Ann is staying at the Amish Inn she starts enjoying the simple way of life and she reconnects with God.
This book also has a light mystery thread that I enjoyed. The book talked a lot about finding God's purpose for our lives as Ann was struggling to know who she really is.