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Grace Revealed #3
Finding Evergreen
He thought he’d found the thrill of his life; she, the romance she’d hadn’t dared to hope for. Falling in love had been easy. Being married? Totally different story.
Married within a year of meeting, Ethan and Brandi add a foster daughter to their newly established family. Their story is enchanting—inspiring. Except when the fairytale fails. The stresses of unmet expectations and wounds from their pasts knife into their marriage, severing what they believed would be forever.
Hope for a broken marriage. Healing for their wounded spirits. It would take both to find evergreen. Are they brave enough to try?
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2018
151 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
40 books405 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 10, 2020
Heroine was Awful
She really was a hateful person for the first several chapters and I was ready to dnf it. The foster daughter was even worse. And the hero, could he be any more selfish??? I didn't like any of them. Then there was the snowboard lesson and I started to soften. She ended up being great. All three redeemed themselves by the end of the book. And of course the epilogue was perfect. I loved it. But getting there had its hiccups and wasn't all sweetness and light but it did get better. It's probably close to a four star book. The writing was excellent and I did enjoy the storyline after about 25% in and I will try this author again.
She really was a hateful person for the first several chapters and I was ready to dnf it. The foster daughter was even worse. And the hero, could he be any more selfish??? I didn't like any of them. Then there was the snowboard lesson and I started to soften. She ended up being great. All three redeemed themselves by the end of the book. And of course the epilogue was perfect. I loved it. But getting there had its hiccups and wasn't all sweetness and light but it did get better. It's probably close to a four star book. The writing was excellent and I did enjoy the storyline after about 25% in and I will try this author again.
March 27, 2018
After thoroughly enjoying the first two books in the Grace Revealed Series (Blue Columbine & Red Rose Bouquet), I found myself not as swept away by Finding Evergreen. I had a difficult time relating to the two main characters and their yo-yo relationship.
I enjoyed getting Sonya's story (foster child), the meaning of evergreen and the ending.
I look forward to what this author will offer next.
I enjoyed getting Sonya's story (foster child), the meaning of evergreen and the ending.
I look forward to what this author will offer next.
March 23, 2018
Brandi may be one of Rodewald’s most unlikable characters, at least on the surface. But I completely identified with her. (Not sure what that says about me, but … anyway) My heart broke for Brandi, and I admit that I saw myself in her more than I want to admit. My heart broke for Ethan, too. Watching their marriage implode like a demolished building was sharp and painful. Both of them deeply hurt, and in turn deeply hurting each other. At times, it seemed like hope was on the horizon… and then just as quickly they were back to square one, or even further away from each other emotionally.
Yet, just as demolished buildings usually lead to spaces that are restored and transformed into something new and even more beautiful than before, so does the implosion of Ethan & Brandi’s marriage take a similar path. What once was broken and dysfunctional is transformed as only God and His amazing grace can do. The journey is not easy… it’s not simplified … it’s raw and vulnerable and authentic. But then, so is God’s redemption. His restoration is sweeter than anything we can come up with on our own, and His healing is more complete.
I fell in love with these characters – with Ethan, Brandi, and So-J (their prickly & sassy foster daughter), despite their flaws. And maybe because of them. I identified with both Ethan and Brandi – their insecurities, their emotions, and their journey with God and each other.
Bottom Line: Finding Evergreen is emotional and honest, written beautifully and crafted with tenderness. Rodewald’s exquisite way with words (as well as character & setting) shines on these pages, and so does her heart. This is a story of lost souls searching for home and finding grace. This is a story of a marriage dissolving before your eyes, the fragile thread that holds it together, and the realization that introduces the healing only God can provide. It will break your heart and mend it back into something stronger and wiser. I highly recommend this whole series (each book can be read as a standalone) and look forward to anything else this author decides to write!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Yet, just as demolished buildings usually lead to spaces that are restored and transformed into something new and even more beautiful than before, so does the implosion of Ethan & Brandi’s marriage take a similar path. What once was broken and dysfunctional is transformed as only God and His amazing grace can do. The journey is not easy… it’s not simplified … it’s raw and vulnerable and authentic. But then, so is God’s redemption. His restoration is sweeter than anything we can come up with on our own, and His healing is more complete.
I fell in love with these characters – with Ethan, Brandi, and So-J (their prickly & sassy foster daughter), despite their flaws. And maybe because of them. I identified with both Ethan and Brandi – their insecurities, their emotions, and their journey with God and each other.
Bottom Line: Finding Evergreen is emotional and honest, written beautifully and crafted with tenderness. Rodewald’s exquisite way with words (as well as character & setting) shines on these pages, and so does her heart. This is a story of lost souls searching for home and finding grace. This is a story of a marriage dissolving before your eyes, the fragile thread that holds it together, and the realization that introduces the healing only God can provide. It will break your heart and mend it back into something stronger and wiser. I highly recommend this whole series (each book can be read as a standalone) and look forward to anything else this author decides to write!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 16, 2018
Rodewald will break your heart and then mend it back again fuller than it had been to begin with. Full of grace and grit, reality and love.
March 21, 2018
Well, my heart’s feeling a little raw right now, partly because Brandi and Ethan’s story was so incredibly authentic and heartrending, and partly because one particular line leapt out of this book and exposed one of my own deeply buried struggles: It’s like if I can’t be the best at everything, then I must be failing, and I can’t even wrap my head around why. Well, that makes two of us, Brandi, and while my own life is nowhere near the mess that Brandi and Ethan have to work through, I’m going to be pondering that little nugget of insight and its impact on my life for some time to come.
But back to the book. It doesn’t matter what genre Jennifer Rodewald is writing in, her stories never fail to tap into a deep well of emotion. Whether it’s her lighter-hearted romantic novellas, her dystopian trilogy (published under the name of J. Rodes), or her contemporary romances dealing with struggling and broken characters, something about the way she writes touches me right at the core.
As I noted above, that makes this a physically painful read at times. Brandi and Ethan are Broken-with-a-capital-‘B’. The phrase ‘the honeymoon’s over’ could have been written for them—if they’d had a honeymoon to start with! Add in an equally broken foster daughter with enough attitude to give third-degree burns, and you have a situation that would stress the healthiest of marriages, let alone one that’s barely begun and already fraying at the edges.
At the risk of overusing the word, everything about this novel is authentic—the characters, their struggles, their flaws, their pain, their anger, their desire to love and be loved, and above all, the journey that finally brings them to a place of healing and restoration. And that is why every time Jennifer Rodewald comes out with a story that’s sure to pummel my heart, I’m right at the head of the line, offering my heart with both hands. Because that restoration at the end is worth every minute of the journey (and the tears) it took to get there. And I’m always challenged to love bigger and love better as a result. And perhaps look a little more closely at myself as well.
Don’t be afraid to risk your heart on this one. You will be blessed!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
But back to the book. It doesn’t matter what genre Jennifer Rodewald is writing in, her stories never fail to tap into a deep well of emotion. Whether it’s her lighter-hearted romantic novellas, her dystopian trilogy (published under the name of J. Rodes), or her contemporary romances dealing with struggling and broken characters, something about the way she writes touches me right at the core.
As I noted above, that makes this a physically painful read at times. Brandi and Ethan are Broken-with-a-capital-‘B’. The phrase ‘the honeymoon’s over’ could have been written for them—if they’d had a honeymoon to start with! Add in an equally broken foster daughter with enough attitude to give third-degree burns, and you have a situation that would stress the healthiest of marriages, let alone one that’s barely begun and already fraying at the edges.
At the risk of overusing the word, everything about this novel is authentic—the characters, their struggles, their flaws, their pain, their anger, their desire to love and be loved, and above all, the journey that finally brings them to a place of healing and restoration. And that is why every time Jennifer Rodewald comes out with a story that’s sure to pummel my heart, I’m right at the head of the line, offering my heart with both hands. Because that restoration at the end is worth every minute of the journey (and the tears) it took to get there. And I’m always challenged to love bigger and love better as a result. And perhaps look a little more closely at myself as well.
Don’t be afraid to risk your heart on this one. You will be blessed!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 17, 2018
Oh my goodness! What an emotional journey of discovery this novel took me on! I generally do not cry when I read books. I can think of maybe three stories that have made me tear up…ever. Well, now there are four because I teared up in several scenes of Finding Evergreen.
Although this is book three in a series, I had no trouble reading Finding Evergreen as a standalone novel. The author filled in the backstory in a natural way that helped me to understand the relationships between the various main and side characters.
It was hard to watch these two broken people yearn for love and understanding from each other, something that should be a given in a marriage. Yet, Ethan and Brandi carried some very complicated baggage into their relationship and didn’t seem to understand how to work things out. Just as I would think that one of them “got it” and maybe things could work out, there would be a set back, a misunderstanding, or sheer stubbornness between the two.
Finding Evergreen was incredibly heart-wrenching and I couldn’t turn away. The author pulled at my heartstrings with all that Brandi, Ethan, and their foster daughter were going through. She also made me examine my own beliefs and attitutes about God. This story was a tumultuous journey from beginning to end, that ultimately left me stronger and full of hope. I will definitely be reading more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Although this is book three in a series, I had no trouble reading Finding Evergreen as a standalone novel. The author filled in the backstory in a natural way that helped me to understand the relationships between the various main and side characters.
It was hard to watch these two broken people yearn for love and understanding from each other, something that should be a given in a marriage. Yet, Ethan and Brandi carried some very complicated baggage into their relationship and didn’t seem to understand how to work things out. Just as I would think that one of them “got it” and maybe things could work out, there would be a set back, a misunderstanding, or sheer stubbornness between the two.
Finding Evergreen was incredibly heart-wrenching and I couldn’t turn away. The author pulled at my heartstrings with all that Brandi, Ethan, and their foster daughter were going through. She also made me examine my own beliefs and attitutes about God. This story was a tumultuous journey from beginning to end, that ultimately left me stronger and full of hope. I will definitely be reading more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 19, 2018
While I’m a fan of romance reads (and Hallmark movies and chick flicks), I’m also well aware that life continues past the first kiss, past the proposal, past the wedding.
In a market saturated with Happily Ever Afters and even Happy for Nows, writing about the pain and heartache of real life takes courage on the author’s part. Life is messy, filled with disappointments, disagreements, and pain. Especially during the first year of marriage where two people are struggling to learn to merge their lives. Add in a faster child with a chip on her shoulder and messy becomes chaotic.
In Finding Evergreen, Jennifer Rodewald takes readers into that difficult, tremulous time after the honeymoon and shines a light on the challenge and work relationships that last take.
Brandi and Ethan both have hang ups they haven’t dealt with. They each bring issues into their marriage which are compounded by their internalization and failure to communicate.
Yet God does His best work in us when we are broken. When we have nothing left to give of ourselves, He steps in and shapes the clay into the vessel He intended.
Bravo to Rodewald for taking the hard road. For writing character who are hard and unlikable at times but real and human. Characters who make mistakes and fall on their faces. Because there is no better place to be than on our faces before God.
Finding Evergreen is a reminder that people don’t live their entire lives on the mountaintop or in the euphoria of falling in love. There are dark valleys along the journey that require a tooth-and-nail fight to climb out of. Taking that journey with Ethan and Brandi is incredibly emotional, moving, and so worth the trip.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books 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.
In a market saturated with Happily Ever Afters and even Happy for Nows, writing about the pain and heartache of real life takes courage on the author’s part. Life is messy, filled with disappointments, disagreements, and pain. Especially during the first year of marriage where two people are struggling to learn to merge their lives. Add in a faster child with a chip on her shoulder and messy becomes chaotic.
In Finding Evergreen, Jennifer Rodewald takes readers into that difficult, tremulous time after the honeymoon and shines a light on the challenge and work relationships that last take.
Brandi and Ethan both have hang ups they haven’t dealt with. They each bring issues into their marriage which are compounded by their internalization and failure to communicate.
Yet God does His best work in us when we are broken. When we have nothing left to give of ourselves, He steps in and shapes the clay into the vessel He intended.
Bravo to Rodewald for taking the hard road. For writing character who are hard and unlikable at times but real and human. Characters who make mistakes and fall on their faces. Because there is no better place to be than on our faces before God.
Finding Evergreen is a reminder that people don’t live their entire lives on the mountaintop or in the euphoria of falling in love. There are dark valleys along the journey that require a tooth-and-nail fight to climb out of. Taking that journey with Ethan and Brandi is incredibly emotional, moving, and so worth the trip.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books 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.
March 28, 2018
Ethan and Brandi started their marriage expecting the other person to fill a void in their heart, not considering that marriage isn’t so much about what you get, but what you give to the other person. Add on top of unrealistic expectations, they decided to foster an 11-year old girl with anger issues, & explosive tempers; and you have the making of a perfect (or not so perfect) storm.
This deeply poignant story is filled with raw emotion and characters so real you feel the story with them. These characters are sure to break your heart and have you reaching for the nearest kleenex box.
The author doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, nor from the raw emotion of the characters. Life in all its glorious messy bits is fully on display. Just like real life, the story is intense and there were times I had to put the story down, just to come up for air and clear my head. At the end of it all, I can honestly say my heart was full (and I’ll never look at evergreen trees the same again).
I haven’t yet read the first two stories in this series, but I have added them to my #TBR. This story could be easily read as a stand-alone. I give this story 4.5 stars and would recommend it to anyone who is searching for a story to read that faces head-on the difficult topics that we all deal with at one time or another.
(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.)
This deeply poignant story is filled with raw emotion and characters so real you feel the story with them. These characters are sure to break your heart and have you reaching for the nearest kleenex box.
The author doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, nor from the raw emotion of the characters. Life in all its glorious messy bits is fully on display. Just like real life, the story is intense and there were times I had to put the story down, just to come up for air and clear my head. At the end of it all, I can honestly say my heart was full (and I’ll never look at evergreen trees the same again).
I haven’t yet read the first two stories in this series, but I have added them to my #TBR. This story could be easily read as a stand-alone. I give this story 4.5 stars and would recommend it to anyone who is searching for a story to read that faces head-on the difficult topics that we all deal with at one time or another.
(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.)
September 11, 2018
Wow.
There’s a certain expectation that comes when you open a Jennifer Rodewald book. I open one fully expecting my heart to be entrenched and my life to change in some way. I’ve never not read one of her books without the desire to examine myself and where I stand with God, my faith, and those around me.
Finding Evergreen was no exception. It is quite obvious that God blesses Jennifer Rodewald with words because her stories are His stories. His truth for us, wrapped in a tale of Christian romance that is poignant as it is heart wrenching. As Finding Evergreen follows the tale of a married couple, you can imagine the potential heartache stored up in that one.
Anyone who has been married knows that not every day is filled with rainbows and sunshine. And honestly from the first few chapters, I wasn’t sure I wanted to walk through their storm, to empathize with the heartache of Brandi and Ethan. But it is a Jennifer Rodewald novel and I’ve never been disappointing before, so I pushed through.
And wow, just wow.
Finding Evergreen is a fitting title for a love we all search for. The reason we watch romance movies and read romance books. Yes, we often hope for that escape or entertainment, but usually the underlining reason is to see that everlasting love played out. Jennifer Rodewald goes behind the curtain so to speak and shows that through trials and tribulation, we can still find away. And God’s way is the only way any of us have a hope for that evergreen kind of love.
This is another must-read by Ms. Rodewald.
*I was giving a free copy from the publisher and not required to give a review. This review is my own, honest opinion.
There’s a certain expectation that comes when you open a Jennifer Rodewald book. I open one fully expecting my heart to be entrenched and my life to change in some way. I’ve never not read one of her books without the desire to examine myself and where I stand with God, my faith, and those around me.
Finding Evergreen was no exception. It is quite obvious that God blesses Jennifer Rodewald with words because her stories are His stories. His truth for us, wrapped in a tale of Christian romance that is poignant as it is heart wrenching. As Finding Evergreen follows the tale of a married couple, you can imagine the potential heartache stored up in that one.
Anyone who has been married knows that not every day is filled with rainbows and sunshine. And honestly from the first few chapters, I wasn’t sure I wanted to walk through their storm, to empathize with the heartache of Brandi and Ethan. But it is a Jennifer Rodewald novel and I’ve never been disappointing before, so I pushed through.
And wow, just wow.
Finding Evergreen is a fitting title for a love we all search for. The reason we watch romance movies and read romance books. Yes, we often hope for that escape or entertainment, but usually the underlining reason is to see that everlasting love played out. Jennifer Rodewald goes behind the curtain so to speak and shows that through trials and tribulation, we can still find away. And God’s way is the only way any of us have a hope for that evergreen kind of love.
This is another must-read by Ms. Rodewald.
*I was giving a free copy from the publisher and not required to give a review. This review is my own, honest opinion.
March 22, 2018
Finding Evergreen by Jennifer Rodewald is a powerful contemporary Christian story. It is the third book in the Grace Revealed series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Wow - what to say? Finding Evergreen is a book about love. Not a perfect love but a raw, gritty, love hurts story. It is about a marriage. A marriage of two imperfect people seeking to fulfilment in each other. "Marriage... was supposed to fill a cavern of emptiness." That is far too much pressure to put on anyone. It is only God who can truly fulfil us.
People meet. They fall in love. Great married and live happily ever after. Right? Wrong. Real life is not a fairy story. Real life is messy. Real life has outside forces that impact on us. Finding Evergreen is a brilliant read about 'real life' love. It pulls no punches. It tugs at heartstrings. It messes with heads. Is 'real love' really worth the effort?
Everyone has a past. Our past has shaped us. We are not our parents. We are not destined to repeat their mistakes. We need to learn from the past and move on into the future.
People speak words over us. Words build up or tear down. "Not good enough had been branded over her heart." We are not who others say we are. "Being unloved. It's a lie from hell, and you don't have to live under it." We are who God says we are. He says we are loved.
The novel deals with the topic of fostering. Fostering is hard. It brings challenges. It brings problems. It brings love. Fostering takes stamina. Fostering takes strength. Fostering takes love.
We all need grace. "Grace. We don't deserve it." We need to give grace and we need to receive grace.
God needs to be in every relationship. When things go wrong (and they will) we need to cry out to Him. "God, help me make it work." With eyes on God and a heart that longs to love as in 1 Corinthians: 13, we have the formula to make relationships work. "Love doesn't quit."
If you are looking for a comfortable fairytale read, Finding Evergreen is not it. If however you want a jolly good story that is realistic, gritty, emotionally charged with lessons for us all to learn - you have come to the right place. Finding Evergreen is a marvellous tale that will tug at your emotions as you take a journey through love.
Another fantastic tale from Jennifer Rodewald.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Wow - what to say? Finding Evergreen is a book about love. Not a perfect love but a raw, gritty, love hurts story. It is about a marriage. A marriage of two imperfect people seeking to fulfilment in each other. "Marriage... was supposed to fill a cavern of emptiness." That is far too much pressure to put on anyone. It is only God who can truly fulfil us.
People meet. They fall in love. Great married and live happily ever after. Right? Wrong. Real life is not a fairy story. Real life is messy. Real life has outside forces that impact on us. Finding Evergreen is a brilliant read about 'real life' love. It pulls no punches. It tugs at heartstrings. It messes with heads. Is 'real love' really worth the effort?
Everyone has a past. Our past has shaped us. We are not our parents. We are not destined to repeat their mistakes. We need to learn from the past and move on into the future.
People speak words over us. Words build up or tear down. "Not good enough had been branded over her heart." We are not who others say we are. "Being unloved. It's a lie from hell, and you don't have to live under it." We are who God says we are. He says we are loved.
The novel deals with the topic of fostering. Fostering is hard. It brings challenges. It brings problems. It brings love. Fostering takes stamina. Fostering takes strength. Fostering takes love.
We all need grace. "Grace. We don't deserve it." We need to give grace and we need to receive grace.
God needs to be in every relationship. When things go wrong (and they will) we need to cry out to Him. "God, help me make it work." With eyes on God and a heart that longs to love as in 1 Corinthians: 13, we have the formula to make relationships work. "Love doesn't quit."
If you are looking for a comfortable fairytale read, Finding Evergreen is not it. If however you want a jolly good story that is realistic, gritty, emotionally charged with lessons for us all to learn - you have come to the right place. Finding Evergreen is a marvellous tale that will tug at your emotions as you take a journey through love.
Another fantastic tale from Jennifer Rodewald.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 28, 2018
Finding Evergreen is a story of fierce love and holding on to hope. The journey through mistakes and brokenness Ethan and Brandi experience points to God as the true source of grace and love in any relationship. The extremes of emotion, vulnerabilities and baggage of Ethan, and well-intentioned penchant for perfectionism Brandi exhibits all make this story relatable even outside of a marital relationship. (But oh what chemistry they have on the page!) And Sonja, their foster daughter, adds another spunky dimension to the story that binds the three of them together in unexpected ways.
Love is worth fighting for.
Throughout this entire series a CLEAR theme emerges, one that is a result of the redemptive, grace-filled moments (and romances) in each story: that of Christ's love for His church. A selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love that manifests in the moments of friendship, forgiveness, pursuit, and intimacy between each of the main characters. I highly recommend this series for fans of contemporary women's fiction/romance and authors such as Katie Ganshert, Julie Lessman, and Courtney Walsh-- just remember to read near a box of Kleenex!
Thank you to the author for the complimentary review copy. This is my honest review.
Love is worth fighting for.
Throughout this entire series a CLEAR theme emerges, one that is a result of the redemptive, grace-filled moments (and romances) in each story: that of Christ's love for His church. A selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love that manifests in the moments of friendship, forgiveness, pursuit, and intimacy between each of the main characters. I highly recommend this series for fans of contemporary women's fiction/romance and authors such as Katie Ganshert, Julie Lessman, and Courtney Walsh-- just remember to read near a box of Kleenex!
Thank you to the author for the complimentary review copy. This is my honest review.
April 25, 2018
full series review on Faithfully Bookish
Ethan and Brandi’s story is sure to strike a familiar chord with readers. To some degree, we have all experienced or witnessed similar situations unfold in our little corner of the world or perhaps even in our own homes. Brandi and Ethan each have valid concerns, emotional baggage, and unmet expectations. Finding Evergreen is a testament to foster families, rocky relationships, and fighting for love against all odds. I highly recommend this story, especially to those who are married or anyone who has ever sympathized with the older brother in the story of the prodigal son!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Ethan and Brandi’s story is sure to strike a familiar chord with readers. To some degree, we have all experienced or witnessed similar situations unfold in our little corner of the world or perhaps even in our own homes. Brandi and Ethan each have valid concerns, emotional baggage, and unmet expectations. Finding Evergreen is a testament to foster families, rocky relationships, and fighting for love against all odds. I highly recommend this story, especially to those who are married or anyone who has ever sympathized with the older brother in the story of the prodigal son!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 10, 2018
I love how this book tackles hard things with truth and grace. And I found myself wishing that every married couple had a Brock and Cheryl in their lives to say the hard things that need to be said with both boldness and grace. I would love to read more Christian fiction like this that tackles marriage struggles.
April 13, 2018
Extraordinary
So many romances end at the wedding or with baby news. While that’s great and we love the high, what about the low? What happens after a picture perfect romance leaves two people ill equipped to make it work long term?
Brandi was intentionally written to be a less than likable leading lady. But honestly? She’s me. She’s too many of us who’ve grown up under the weight of perfectionism, living a Pharisee’s life and still feeling inadequate. The pressure of putting forth your very best, in competition with no one but yourself, yet constantly knowing the sting of failure. Her journey wrecked me. Fiction-induced open heart surgery, a transfusion of grace to remind me how very much the Father loves...because He IS love. And love is evergreen.
So many romances end at the wedding or with baby news. While that’s great and we love the high, what about the low? What happens after a picture perfect romance leaves two people ill equipped to make it work long term?
Brandi was intentionally written to be a less than likable leading lady. But honestly? She’s me. She’s too many of us who’ve grown up under the weight of perfectionism, living a Pharisee’s life and still feeling inadequate. The pressure of putting forth your very best, in competition with no one but yourself, yet constantly knowing the sting of failure. Her journey wrecked me. Fiction-induced open heart surgery, a transfusion of grace to remind me how very much the Father loves...because He IS love. And love is evergreen.
March 22, 2018
'Some things were just broken. Some people were just broken.'
I don't even remember the last time a book pounded my heart like this one. So much so that I could not get these characters out of my mind even when I was not reading.
Ethan and Brandi marry and very soon after take in an 11 year old foster daughter. They've not even gotten established in their marriage and now they are headed down the wrong path. The daughter's belligerence towards Brandi and favoritism towards Ethan only adds more fuel to the fire. Suddenly, their life together seems like a huge mistake.
Jennifer Rodewald is a very gifted writer. She can make the reader feel deeply everything that is happening in her characters' hearts. Seriously. These two broken people, wounded in childhood, are trying to make their marriage work, but neither can forget their pasts and work towards healing. They argue, they distance themselves from each other and all the while, their hearts are just jerked out and being stomped on the floor.
Neither Ethan nor Brandi can see past what they are feeling at the moment, not willing to look into their own hearts to see where they're broken or look at the other's hearts to understand what makes them act the way they do.
There is so much pain in these hearts, it broke mine. Numerous times. I wept at their pain, wanting wholeness for them. But only God can give that wholeness and that grace. Grace has to be accepted, but will Ethan and Brandi accept grace? Will they allow God to pour His healing into their hearts and lives?
This book was so incredibly powerful, it shook me to the core! After seeing these two struggle with their marriage, no one should ever take a good marriage for granted. I felt like I was an invisible presence in this book, privy to each scene, willing these two to find happiness again, to love again, to see past the hurt and feel the heart's cry of each other. Rodewald deserves more than the allowable 5 stars for this one. Highly recommended.
*My thanks for a preview copy of this book. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
I don't even remember the last time a book pounded my heart like this one. So much so that I could not get these characters out of my mind even when I was not reading.
Ethan and Brandi marry and very soon after take in an 11 year old foster daughter. They've not even gotten established in their marriage and now they are headed down the wrong path. The daughter's belligerence towards Brandi and favoritism towards Ethan only adds more fuel to the fire. Suddenly, their life together seems like a huge mistake.
Jennifer Rodewald is a very gifted writer. She can make the reader feel deeply everything that is happening in her characters' hearts. Seriously. These two broken people, wounded in childhood, are trying to make their marriage work, but neither can forget their pasts and work towards healing. They argue, they distance themselves from each other and all the while, their hearts are just jerked out and being stomped on the floor.
Neither Ethan nor Brandi can see past what they are feeling at the moment, not willing to look into their own hearts to see where they're broken or look at the other's hearts to understand what makes them act the way they do.
There is so much pain in these hearts, it broke mine. Numerous times. I wept at their pain, wanting wholeness for them. But only God can give that wholeness and that grace. Grace has to be accepted, but will Ethan and Brandi accept grace? Will they allow God to pour His healing into their hearts and lives?
This book was so incredibly powerful, it shook me to the core! After seeing these two struggle with their marriage, no one should ever take a good marriage for granted. I felt like I was an invisible presence in this book, privy to each scene, willing these two to find happiness again, to love again, to see past the hurt and feel the heart's cry of each other. Rodewald deserves more than the allowable 5 stars for this one. Highly recommended.
*My thanks for a preview copy of this book. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
March 19, 2018
Finding Evergreen (2018) by Jennifer Rodewald is the third and final book in her Grace Revealed series. While it is the third book, Finding Evergreen does act like a stand-alone novel. As I have yet to read books 1 and 2, I never once felt lost or confused by the plot line in book 3. This book is set to release on Thursday, March 22, 2018 by Rooted Publishing. This book will come in eBook form, and is 414 pages in length. With a full-time job and an adventurous five-year old at home, this story took me TWO days to devour. I received a review copy in eBook form from the author. In no way has this influenced my opinion. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this story 5+++ STARS. Finding Evergreen is a Contemporary Christian Romance.
Finding Evergreen is an excellent story. In her Author’s Note, Jennifer Rodewald explains that she is drawn by the messy story. Let me tell you what, this may be one of the messiest stories I’ve ever read. My heart was ripped out of my chest, stomped on repeatedly, then crammed back into my chest in bloody pieces. I sobbed my heart out on more than one occasion. By the end of the book, I was ugly crying. It. Was. Awesome!
Finding Evergreen is a redemption story unlike any I’ve read before. It’s gritty. It’s real. It’s honest. It made me go to my knees a few times asking God to forgive me for my Pharisaical heart. You see, I was born a pharisee. True story! I love rules. I think everything should be boiled down to a black and white answer. Obviously, life has been difficult for me. LOL! The main character, Brandi, is a Pharisee, too. As I was reading this story, I kept wanting to enter the story line and shake her. I wanted so desperately to yell at her from outside of the page, “Brandi, I get it. You LOVE control. Following rules leads to control. But, man, you are so HARD! Calm down. Take a step back. BREATHE!” Even if I were a character in this story though I couldn’t tell this to Brandi. She, just like real Pharisees, has to learn it on her own. What we Pharisees have to learn is that we have got to ask God to be our guide. Our own understanding will never be enough to get us through anything. We will always end up fighting. Fighting the world, fighting our loved ones, fighting God.
What I appreciate SO much about this book is its honesty. Marriage is the HARDEST thing I have ever done. I dare say, it’s harder than being a mommy. The love is different. With my daughter, Bella, the love NEVER changes. I can be mad, sad, disappointed, happy, and/or content with my daughter and the love never differs. It’s always there. But, with a husband, it’s different. And, I think it’s because of over-the-top expectations. I have almost no expectations for my daughter. That sounds bad, and I don’t mean that like it sounds. Of course, I expect her to be a good girl, listen to mommy and daddy, do well at school, behave during church, etc. But, everyday with Bella is a blank slate. In the morning I say to myself, “I love her, we’ll see what this new day brings!” With my husband, though, I had major expectations and they have all mostly been dashed. I dreamed BIG about my future husband. We’re talking “Disney Princess” BIG. My husband was going to be my rock, my person whom I could lean on no matter what, he was going to be the answer to all my problems in life. Who can actually be that for another person? I expected my husband to be the superman I had dreamed up, not the man he actually was/is. Add to this that I was a Pharisee and you have the makings of a bad marriage. Watching Brandi and Ethan go through the gut-wrenching, heart-rending pain of the first year of marriage killed my heart. “I know where you’re at,” I wanted to scream. “Just hold tight, guys! It will get better if you can see the changes you need to make in yourself first.” I talked a lot to the characters in this book. In this way, Finding Evergreen is incredibly interactive!
It should be noted that it’s a good thing love in a marriage changes. As I grow older, and my husband does, too — although you wouldn’t know it to look at him and his gorgeous skin — we are both changing together. Our love is stronger and our friendship is deeper. Once my eyes were open to my Pharisaical tendencies, I begged forgiveness from God and my husband. And, because God is so good and gracious and my husband is an amazing guy, I have been forgiven of my Pharisaical ways (many times). I now know what to work on to be a better partner. It has not been easy, and many times I fall back into old patterns. Knowing my shortcomings is a good thing though; I never lack for something to talk about with God. And, it helps me understand Jesus better when He discusses removing the plank from my eye. This lets me be the wife God wants me to be. It lets my love for my husband change and grow as it should, not as I think it should, which leads to a better, healthier relationship. Being reminded of this through Brandi and Ethan’s story made this story a 5+++ STAR book for me.
Finding Evergreen is an exceptional story. I highly, highly recommend it. I think everyone should buy this book on March 22 when it releases and really deal with the heart-wrenching issues brought up in the story line. The characters in this book are superbly written, and they hold up a much-needed mirror to the reader. The story begs the reader to search in his/her own heart, and I absolutely love that about this book. This reading experience brought me closer to God and to my husband, and for that I am truly grateful. Please, I implore you to read this book. You will not be disappointed that you did!
Review + Author Interview will post to my blog, https://christianfictiongirl.blog on 3-19-18.
Finding Evergreen is an excellent story. In her Author’s Note, Jennifer Rodewald explains that she is drawn by the messy story. Let me tell you what, this may be one of the messiest stories I’ve ever read. My heart was ripped out of my chest, stomped on repeatedly, then crammed back into my chest in bloody pieces. I sobbed my heart out on more than one occasion. By the end of the book, I was ugly crying. It. Was. Awesome!
Finding Evergreen is a redemption story unlike any I’ve read before. It’s gritty. It’s real. It’s honest. It made me go to my knees a few times asking God to forgive me for my Pharisaical heart. You see, I was born a pharisee. True story! I love rules. I think everything should be boiled down to a black and white answer. Obviously, life has been difficult for me. LOL! The main character, Brandi, is a Pharisee, too. As I was reading this story, I kept wanting to enter the story line and shake her. I wanted so desperately to yell at her from outside of the page, “Brandi, I get it. You LOVE control. Following rules leads to control. But, man, you are so HARD! Calm down. Take a step back. BREATHE!” Even if I were a character in this story though I couldn’t tell this to Brandi. She, just like real Pharisees, has to learn it on her own. What we Pharisees have to learn is that we have got to ask God to be our guide. Our own understanding will never be enough to get us through anything. We will always end up fighting. Fighting the world, fighting our loved ones, fighting God.
What I appreciate SO much about this book is its honesty. Marriage is the HARDEST thing I have ever done. I dare say, it’s harder than being a mommy. The love is different. With my daughter, Bella, the love NEVER changes. I can be mad, sad, disappointed, happy, and/or content with my daughter and the love never differs. It’s always there. But, with a husband, it’s different. And, I think it’s because of over-the-top expectations. I have almost no expectations for my daughter. That sounds bad, and I don’t mean that like it sounds. Of course, I expect her to be a good girl, listen to mommy and daddy, do well at school, behave during church, etc. But, everyday with Bella is a blank slate. In the morning I say to myself, “I love her, we’ll see what this new day brings!” With my husband, though, I had major expectations and they have all mostly been dashed. I dreamed BIG about my future husband. We’re talking “Disney Princess” BIG. My husband was going to be my rock, my person whom I could lean on no matter what, he was going to be the answer to all my problems in life. Who can actually be that for another person? I expected my husband to be the superman I had dreamed up, not the man he actually was/is. Add to this that I was a Pharisee and you have the makings of a bad marriage. Watching Brandi and Ethan go through the gut-wrenching, heart-rending pain of the first year of marriage killed my heart. “I know where you’re at,” I wanted to scream. “Just hold tight, guys! It will get better if you can see the changes you need to make in yourself first.” I talked a lot to the characters in this book. In this way, Finding Evergreen is incredibly interactive!
It should be noted that it’s a good thing love in a marriage changes. As I grow older, and my husband does, too — although you wouldn’t know it to look at him and his gorgeous skin — we are both changing together. Our love is stronger and our friendship is deeper. Once my eyes were open to my Pharisaical tendencies, I begged forgiveness from God and my husband. And, because God is so good and gracious and my husband is an amazing guy, I have been forgiven of my Pharisaical ways (many times). I now know what to work on to be a better partner. It has not been easy, and many times I fall back into old patterns. Knowing my shortcomings is a good thing though; I never lack for something to talk about with God. And, it helps me understand Jesus better when He discusses removing the plank from my eye. This lets me be the wife God wants me to be. It lets my love for my husband change and grow as it should, not as I think it should, which leads to a better, healthier relationship. Being reminded of this through Brandi and Ethan’s story made this story a 5+++ STAR book for me.
Finding Evergreen is an exceptional story. I highly, highly recommend it. I think everyone should buy this book on March 22 when it releases and really deal with the heart-wrenching issues brought up in the story line. The characters in this book are superbly written, and they hold up a much-needed mirror to the reader. The story begs the reader to search in his/her own heart, and I absolutely love that about this book. This reading experience brought me closer to God and to my husband, and for that I am truly grateful. Please, I implore you to read this book. You will not be disappointed that you did!
Review + Author Interview will post to my blog, https://christianfictiongirl.blog on 3-19-18.
March 23, 2018
This author is not afraid of grit and raw reality. She delivers a story that had me tearing up and wanting to hurl the book (I didn't because I can't afford to replace my kindle) on one side, and on the other side, I flipped pages, eager to see what will happen between E and Brandi. If you haven't read a book by Ms. Rodewald, you're missing out!
March 24, 2018
Absolutely wonderful book
This book was so full of emotion, and introspection, it hurt to read it at times. I do not mean it in a negative way. It was the kind of book that grips your heart and won't let go. There are so many lessons for all of us to learn. Such a beautifully written book that needs to be read over and over again.
This book was so full of emotion, and introspection, it hurt to read it at times. I do not mean it in a negative way. It was the kind of book that grips your heart and won't let go. There are so many lessons for all of us to learn. Such a beautifully written book that needs to be read over and over again.
March 17, 2018
Another beautiful novel by Jennifer Rodewald!
April 30, 2018
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
May 2, 2018
No one ever said life would be easy. Especially in marriage.
Brandi and Ethan thought they’d found their happily-ever-after — and then they went on their honeymoon. As sometimes happens, reality hit hard. Finding Evergreen tackles our not-so-perfect reality head-on. When our hopes are dashed, can we find the grace to move forward? For Brandi and Ethan, there’s just not an easy answer.
With stubbornly realistic characters, Finding Evergreen braves the harsh world and offers a glimpse of hope for those battling struggles of their own.
The writing style is fresh and youthful, dusted with the lingo of the snowboarding world the characters dwell in.
If you enjoy gritty, realistic fiction or are looking for a story that goes much deeper than a simple boy-meets-girl romance, you’ll want to meet Brandi and Ethan. Finding Evergreen is the third book in the Grace Revealed series. You can follow the storyline without reading the previous two, but since it is a continuing story, reading them in order would add depth to your understanding.
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
Brandi and Ethan thought they’d found their happily-ever-after — and then they went on their honeymoon. As sometimes happens, reality hit hard. Finding Evergreen tackles our not-so-perfect reality head-on. When our hopes are dashed, can we find the grace to move forward? For Brandi and Ethan, there’s just not an easy answer.
With stubbornly realistic characters, Finding Evergreen braves the harsh world and offers a glimpse of hope for those battling struggles of their own.
The writing style is fresh and youthful, dusted with the lingo of the snowboarding world the characters dwell in.
If you enjoy gritty, realistic fiction or are looking for a story that goes much deeper than a simple boy-meets-girl romance, you’ll want to meet Brandi and Ethan. Finding Evergreen is the third book in the Grace Revealed series. You can follow the storyline without reading the previous two, but since it is a continuing story, reading them in order would add depth to your understanding.
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
May 7, 2018
Life Fully Booked review of Finding Evergreen
Rodewald’s book is realistic and not always comfortable. Yet it’s a tale that will resonate with married people and maybe help you to grow in your relationship and your faith.
March 22, 2018
“Marriage isn’t a math problem where fifty-fifty makes a hundred. It’s like those races you love. You lay it all down, never knowing how it’s going to turn out. Some days you win, and it’s awesome. Sometimes you crash, and it’s ugly. Either way, you’re putting it all out there, everything you’ve got.”
What an incredible book. This is the first contemporary romance I’ve read written by Jennifer Rodewald and I am hooked. I know this is the third book in the series and I didn’t read the first two books; this can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I will surely visit the other two books soon though. Anyone who enjoys a well-written and heart-jolting contemporary romance will LOVE this book.
Jennifer Rodewald once again delivers a beautifully written and complex novel that exposes raw, authentic, and heart-wrenching emotions. She speaks to the heart about what true love is and how a marriage can be selfish in its infancy but how it can be turned around for God’s glory. She brings together two very broken, hurting people to show us the sin and ugliness of our hearts without God and grace. I love this quote from Brandi, one of the main characters: “I know some things now that I didn’t know before. Grace is mine if I’m willing to kneel under it. I can give it if I live and love in it. This is my new battle cry, to live and love in grace. And in that battle, I’m fighting for you.” So powerful.
The main characters Brandi and Ethan are polar opposites and newlyweds. They both have much emotional baggage that they have not unpacked and start their marriage with a foster daughter who has been through too much for an eleven year old. As their world falls apart, they move through anger, selfish accusations, and blame until they both individually reach rock bottom and allow God to work in them. Their journey twisted my heart, reached deep down into my soul, and made me cry every chapter. Their struggles in marriage reminded me of my struggles at the beginning of ours....and made me also realize how powerful God’s grace and mercy indeed are to have morphed my marriage into something sustainable, stable, and solid from the mess I was and still am.
“Love was hard. Fierce. Sometimes a battle. And yet beautiful. It was evergreen.”
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
What an incredible book. This is the first contemporary romance I’ve read written by Jennifer Rodewald and I am hooked. I know this is the third book in the series and I didn’t read the first two books; this can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I will surely visit the other two books soon though. Anyone who enjoys a well-written and heart-jolting contemporary romance will LOVE this book.
Jennifer Rodewald once again delivers a beautifully written and complex novel that exposes raw, authentic, and heart-wrenching emotions. She speaks to the heart about what true love is and how a marriage can be selfish in its infancy but how it can be turned around for God’s glory. She brings together two very broken, hurting people to show us the sin and ugliness of our hearts without God and grace. I love this quote from Brandi, one of the main characters: “I know some things now that I didn’t know before. Grace is mine if I’m willing to kneel under it. I can give it if I live and love in it. This is my new battle cry, to live and love in grace. And in that battle, I’m fighting for you.” So powerful.
The main characters Brandi and Ethan are polar opposites and newlyweds. They both have much emotional baggage that they have not unpacked and start their marriage with a foster daughter who has been through too much for an eleven year old. As their world falls apart, they move through anger, selfish accusations, and blame until they both individually reach rock bottom and allow God to work in them. Their journey twisted my heart, reached deep down into my soul, and made me cry every chapter. Their struggles in marriage reminded me of my struggles at the beginning of ours....and made me also realize how powerful God’s grace and mercy indeed are to have morphed my marriage into something sustainable, stable, and solid from the mess I was and still am.
“Love was hard. Fierce. Sometimes a battle. And yet beautiful. It was evergreen.”
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
November 4, 2019
I waited to read the final installment of Jennifer Rodewald’s Grace Revealed series, Finding Evergreen, for a solitary trip where I knew I could give it my whole attention. Last week I had that pleasure. The first two installments of this series - Blue Columbine and Red Rose Bouquet – were still close to my heart and the final installment did NOT disappoint.
Jennifer’s stories always include authenticity that connects readers of any age at a compassionate level with her characters. Finding Evergreen pulls deep emotion from your heart as you follow Ethan and Brandi through the story of not only surviving their honeymoon but discovering the blessings of God in their marriage. What a delight to find my favorite Red Rose Bouquet character, Cheryl, ministering to Brandi along the way too.
Finding Evergreen is a love story in more ways than one. It is the story of a unique family that includes a foster care daughter. So-Jo’s journey to bond with Ethan and Brandi were shared in a gritty way that exposed the pain and blessing on both sides of this dynamic. This family’s initial interactions, along with the obvious frustration that often follows foster care situations, enlightened me on this topic that impacts our society deeply today. It is heartbreaking to consider the tens of thousands of families experiencing the same trauma in our nation alone.
I won’t give away the ending, but I was on the edge of my seat hoping for the best for this family. The surprise conclusion left me encouraged, uplifted and joyful. My entire day was changed for the better as God’s blessing flowed out upon me in the same way it did the Finding Evergreen characters! What an awesome result of reading!
Jennifer’s stories always involve the main character working to discover God at a deeper level. As each character draws nearer to the Creator of the Universe, so does as the reader! When I finished Finding Evergreen, I felt like I was sitting in a church service versus an airport as the presence of God encircled me. Our heavenly father can meet you in the same way as you read through this lovely story of hope, mercy and His grace revealed!
Sydna Massé
CEO & Founder
Ramah International, Inc.
Ramahinternational.org
HerChoicetoHeal.com
Jennifer’s stories always include authenticity that connects readers of any age at a compassionate level with her characters. Finding Evergreen pulls deep emotion from your heart as you follow Ethan and Brandi through the story of not only surviving their honeymoon but discovering the blessings of God in their marriage. What a delight to find my favorite Red Rose Bouquet character, Cheryl, ministering to Brandi along the way too.
Finding Evergreen is a love story in more ways than one. It is the story of a unique family that includes a foster care daughter. So-Jo’s journey to bond with Ethan and Brandi were shared in a gritty way that exposed the pain and blessing on both sides of this dynamic. This family’s initial interactions, along with the obvious frustration that often follows foster care situations, enlightened me on this topic that impacts our society deeply today. It is heartbreaking to consider the tens of thousands of families experiencing the same trauma in our nation alone.
I won’t give away the ending, but I was on the edge of my seat hoping for the best for this family. The surprise conclusion left me encouraged, uplifted and joyful. My entire day was changed for the better as God’s blessing flowed out upon me in the same way it did the Finding Evergreen characters! What an awesome result of reading!
Jennifer’s stories always involve the main character working to discover God at a deeper level. As each character draws nearer to the Creator of the Universe, so does as the reader! When I finished Finding Evergreen, I felt like I was sitting in a church service versus an airport as the presence of God encircled me. Our heavenly father can meet you in the same way as you read through this lovely story of hope, mercy and His grace revealed!
Sydna Massé
CEO & Founder
Ramah International, Inc.
Ramahinternational.org
HerChoicetoHeal.com
March 19, 2018
Finding Evergreen is a heart wrenching journey of a young marriage headed for collapse. This book caught my attention from the first pages and never let go. The writing was superb and so heartfelt. I was pulled into the lives of Ethan, Brandi and So-J and found myself on an emotional roller coaster with each one of them. At times I was rooting for them and at other times I was upset with the decisions they were making. It's a story about baggage, the baggage we carry from past experiences, hurts, and suffering that when not healed by God causes us to hurt others, even unintentionally. Your heart will break but along with the characters you will find the truth of about amazing grace and what it really means. If you allow the lessons learned in this book to permeate your own life you will walk away a changed person, a more loving and lovable person. It opened my eyes to how I love others and how I can love better. My favorite quote:
"Grace is mine if I'm willing to kneel under it. I can give it if I live and love in it. This is my new battle cry, to live and love in grace. And in that battle, I'm fighting for you."
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
"Grace is mine if I'm willing to kneel under it. I can give it if I live and love in it. This is my new battle cry, to live and love in grace. And in that battle, I'm fighting for you."
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 27, 2018
Jennifer Rodewald is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. She is incredibly talented and her range is impressive. I have loved every book of hers that I have read from her youth dystopian trilogy, to her humorous novella’s, to the emotionally charged Finding Evergreen.
Honestly, Brandi was not a very like able character and Ethan was a bit immature for me. They had a lot of issues to overcome to make their marriage a success. But, through Jen’s incredible storytelling, she makes you want to keep reading all the while hoping that these two can work everything out.
This book also made me really think and had me asking myself many questions. When we argue, do we only see things from our point of view or do we put ourselves into the other person’s shoes? Are we maybe too defensive because of our past history and mistakes? Are we treating others as we want to be treated and more importantly how God wants us to treat others? Are we patient, loving, and kind even while upset with someone?
My favorite line from this book, “If you are called a child of God, You. Are. Blessed” is one we all need to remember especially during low periods in our lives. What a powerful read!
I was given a copy of this book by the author. All thoughts are my own.
Honestly, Brandi was not a very like able character and Ethan was a bit immature for me. They had a lot of issues to overcome to make their marriage a success. But, through Jen’s incredible storytelling, she makes you want to keep reading all the while hoping that these two can work everything out.
This book also made me really think and had me asking myself many questions. When we argue, do we only see things from our point of view or do we put ourselves into the other person’s shoes? Are we maybe too defensive because of our past history and mistakes? Are we treating others as we want to be treated and more importantly how God wants us to treat others? Are we patient, loving, and kind even while upset with someone?
My favorite line from this book, “If you are called a child of God, You. Are. Blessed” is one we all need to remember especially during low periods in our lives. What a powerful read!
I was given a copy of this book by the author. All thoughts are my own.
March 17, 2018
Finding Evergreen was an emotional read. It was heart-wrenching and raw and painful. But it was also breathtaking and authentic and oh so good. It was full of hardships, ups and downs, faith, redemption, and grace.
I was instantly pulled into this story and completely invested in Brandi, Ethan, and So-J's lives. These characters were hurting. There were misunderstandings and assumptions and things got misconstrued. Things got difficult, really difficult. Life's not always easy or rainbows and sunshine. Plans don't always go the way they're expected and maybe they weren't realistic in the first place. This book is real life and so very compelling. I felt like I was reading about real people and their very real struggles.
I can't recommend Finding Evergreen highly enough! Rodewald is firmly cemented on my favorite authors list. There is always something in her books that resonates so deeply with me. I leave feeling as though I've encountered something profound. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I was instantly pulled into this story and completely invested in Brandi, Ethan, and So-J's lives. These characters were hurting. There were misunderstandings and assumptions and things got misconstrued. Things got difficult, really difficult. Life's not always easy or rainbows and sunshine. Plans don't always go the way they're expected and maybe they weren't realistic in the first place. This book is real life and so very compelling. I felt like I was reading about real people and their very real struggles.
I can't recommend Finding Evergreen highly enough! Rodewald is firmly cemented on my favorite authors list. There is always something in her books that resonates so deeply with me. I leave feeling as though I've encountered something profound. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
March 20, 2018
First let me say, this is my first Jennifer Rodewald novel but it won't be my last. Even though this was a series that I haven't read, the book is great as a stand alone. I simply loved this book and yes it broke my heart, made me laugh, and made me stop and reflect. Because just like Brandi, I struggle with being perfect and thinking that is what makes others love me. But Jennifer Rodewald uses this story to paint a beautiful picture of God's grace and what that grace means- a gift no one deserves.
And her picture of marriage is spot on- because marriage is hard and it isn't simply give a little bit and meet in the middle and it is takes work, honest talk and lots of prayer. Surely every married couple can identify with " I was not kind. I was not patient. I was not loving." So if you are married or thinking about getting married or want to be married, I simply say read this book and do your own reflection because it sure isn't what Hallmark movies tell you.
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author and this review is solely based on my own opinion.
And her picture of marriage is spot on- because marriage is hard and it isn't simply give a little bit and meet in the middle and it is takes work, honest talk and lots of prayer. Surely every married couple can identify with " I was not kind. I was not patient. I was not loving." So if you are married or thinking about getting married or want to be married, I simply say read this book and do your own reflection because it sure isn't what Hallmark movies tell you.
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author and this review is solely based on my own opinion.
April 6, 2018
What an emotional roller coaster this story took me on! Jennifer Rodewald isn’t afraid to tackle the messy, gritty, real-life subjects, and this book definitely fits in that category. Rodewald is talented at creating realistic, broken, but engaging characters and putting them in situations where they can grow and heal. However, she doesn’t let them off the hook easily—they have to work hard through seemingly hopeless circumstances in order to come out on top. Several times I wanted to slap the two main characters and tell them to shape up.
The author infused the story with an inspirational thread of forgiveness, healing, and God’s grace, and left me with an uplifting feeling of hope and optimism. Finding Evergreen is part of a series, but it can easily be a stand-alone book. Jennifer Rodewald is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. I would recommend this to those who enjoy realistic, authentic, clean Christian fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The author infused the story with an inspirational thread of forgiveness, healing, and God’s grace, and left me with an uplifting feeling of hope and optimism. Finding Evergreen is part of a series, but it can easily be a stand-alone book. Jennifer Rodewald is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. I would recommend this to those who enjoy realistic, authentic, clean Christian fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 15, 2022
I want love in my life but how do I get it? All in, God's example to us.
The author really put us into the pain of failed marriage. This is not an easy read for anyone but a worthwhile one. If you've ever wondered what it takes for a happily ever after this nails it. All in, take full responsibility for your own happiness and let the love God has for you be your guide. I've been blessed with a very happy marriage of 35 yrs and I can attest to this formula. I came from a broken home where I saw this level of pain portrayed daily for 14 years before a horrible divorce occurred. It was nothing short of a miracle that I found a happily ever after. It took kindness, patience, perseverance and faith. Above all, humility. Author could have explored Brandi's history. There was no development of her history, I find that interesting in light of the other characters development. This character was developed from the inside out, a unique twist.
The author really put us into the pain of failed marriage. This is not an easy read for anyone but a worthwhile one. If you've ever wondered what it takes for a happily ever after this nails it. All in, take full responsibility for your own happiness and let the love God has for you be your guide. I've been blessed with a very happy marriage of 35 yrs and I can attest to this formula. I came from a broken home where I saw this level of pain portrayed daily for 14 years before a horrible divorce occurred. It was nothing short of a miracle that I found a happily ever after. It took kindness, patience, perseverance and faith. Above all, humility. Author could have explored Brandi's history. There was no development of her history, I find that interesting in light of the other characters development. This character was developed from the inside out, a unique twist.
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