Isle of Hope Collection

Isle of Hope #1-3

by Julie Lessman

ISLE OF HOPE BEACH-BUNDLE Fall in love with two passionate families—the O'Bryens and the Carmichaels—as they explore life, love, and faith in this 3-book family saga of hope restored on Isle of Hope, Georgia. (NOTE! THIS SERIES IS SWEET INSPIRATIONAL WITH A BIT HIGHER LEVEL OF ROMANTIC AND SPIRITUAL PASSION.) BOOK 1 — ISLE OF UNFAILING LOVE (Award-winning novel named on Family Fiction magazine's list for "Top 15 Novels of 2015") She stole his heart. He stole her peace. Can hope steal their pain? At the age of eighteen, Lacey Carmichael was a wild girl bent on fun, promised to Jack O'Bryen, a straight-and-narrow pastor’s kid bent on the seminary. When her father kicks her out of the house, she runs away from Isle of Hope, turning her back on everything she loves. Now, eight years later, she’s back as a woman of faith, hoping to make amends to the father she defied, the boyfriend she deserted, and the best friend she denied. Only the bridges she’s burned are still smoldering, kindled by an adulterous affair by Jack’s pastor father that damaged his son’s faith. But can a turning of tables—and hearts—lead the way back to “hope” for them all? BOOK 2 — LOVE EVERLASTING He sets hearts on fire. She’s been burned by love. Can hope survive the flames of the past? School teacher by day, ghostwriter by night, sweet and shy Shannon O’Bryen doesn’t mind writing romance on the sly, but to live it? No, thank you, not since the man she loved turned out to be a player who broke both her heart and her spirit. Now focused more on her faith and her fiction, she vows the next time she falls in love, it will be safely—through the pages of a book. Dr. Sam Cunningham is a charismatic player who breaks hearts as regularly as he washes his pearl-white Corvette. Abandoned as a baby, Sam was an orphan shuffled through the foster-care system, bitterly driven to prove he is worthy of love—the kind that lasts forever. Once he learns Shannon is a romance writer, he enlists her help in winning back his ex-girlfriend. She teaches him about faith and the true definition of love, and he soon discovers he’s been seeking it in the wrong place all along—and with the wrong girl. But can he convince a woman who's been burned by love to open her eyes—and her heart—to a love everlasting? BOOK 3 — HIS STEADFAST LOVE She’s bent on fun. He’s bent on faith. Till true love bridges the gap. Cat O’Bryen is the prodigal daughter unhappy with God. First, the father with whom she reconciled dies of cancer and now her twin sister and best friend marries, leaving Cat at home with a newlywed mother, her new husband, and a little brother. But when Cat moves in with a roommate of questionable morals, her family is worried, certain she’s on a path that could damage her faith forever. Reluctant to get involved with a woman like the one who destroyed his life, ex-Navy SEAL Pastor Chase Griffin steers clear of the attraction he feels for Cat O’Bryen. Until her family begs him to take her under his wing, hoping he can draw her back into the fold. But when the draw she has on him proves too strong to resist, he must rely on the strength of God to offer a friendship as steady and strong as the God whose love is wooing her home.

1084 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 15, 2018

About the author

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.

Reviews

[Ruth Jessen · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's always hope...

A great trilogy all in one book. These are as advertised more passionate than other sweet inspirational stories, but the forgiveness, love and redemption are true to life. Each set of main characters has to let go of things in their pasts and embrace the future.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely a solid 5 Star series- each & every book!!! I love how Lessman brings real struggles and depth to her characters, as well as building in moving faith elements! Loved this series!
My reviews on Books 2 & 3 below:

WARNING - Reading this novel is addictive! Seriously! Julie Lessman is one of my favorite authors and I absolutely look forward to reading each and every novel she produces. She has once again captured my attention, heart and emotions with her newest release, Love Everlasting. From page one I was hooked, and to be honest I had a really hard time putting the book down last night and going to bed. I wish I could have devoured this novel in one sitting. Then again, I really did not want it to end either!

Lessman is gifted with the ability to write not only witty, humorous and romantic stories, but also ones with heart, hope, faith and true love. She organically weaves in messages of faith and deep truths, that elicit hope and meditation. She did no less with this story. Her characters, main and secondary just shine. They are written with depth and live with you long after you turn the last page. I love the dialogue, and seeing the interactions not only between the two main love interest, but with their families and friends as well.

In Book 2, we get to see Shannon and Sam, a.k.a Dr. Love, take the forefront but do not worry Tess and Ben's story continues to play out as well! Each of these stories plus getting to catch back up with characters from Book 1 is completely delightful. There were moments that left me grinning, as I am now; and other moments that took me through a range of emotions but left me completely satisfied! Also, completely eager for Book 3, Love Unchanging due out next year!

Now back to our focus, Book 2! I love, love, loved it! Shannon is a study of contrasting traits, that blend to draw you to her; being both sweet and shy, a woman of faith but also feisty and a woman with deep hurts. Shannon battles with trust issues for a very good reason. She battles with trusting men but also with herself. Sam, is the GQ looking guy who seemingly has it all; he is charming and kind but also a complete player. Watching their friendship and story unfold was beautiful. Their story painting a reflection of the truth of God's everlasting love. Love that is a real, 1 Corinthians 13 kind of love. Love that is patient and forgiving, love that endures and does not fail. (Click link to see the way Julie pictures her characters - http://www.julielessman.com/journal-j...

I simply cannot say enough good things about this novel and series! If you have not read Book 1 or its' prequel, I highly encourage you to do so. And if you have not ever read a book by Lessman this series is a great place to start. This is Lessman's first contemporary series. Her previous, historical series are fabulous! When starting there check out A Passion Most Pure; still one of my absolutely fave books by any author.

Book 3-
Lessman does it again! She masterfully hooks readers in and keeps them engaged throughout the novel. I am not going to lie, I love her books, and as is quiet often the case, I cannot put them down. This was one of those occasions where I had to stay up late to finish this novel, the same day I started it! And it was so worth it! Lessman left me with a grin permanently on my face, and a day later it is still there!

This novel is both sweet and at times steamy; filled with truth, faith, romance and grace. I had a smile upon my face almost the whole way through and caught myself chuckling out loud a few times too! Lessman amazes me at how well she can craft a novel; fitting all the pieces together so organically, where the faith lessons, the romance and the characters shine. So, all the while lessons on forgiveness, purity, faith, and mercy play out, I am still feeling the chemistry between the characters and it sizzles!

I love that she brings back into play the previous characters and their stories continue to unfold. That is another gift Lessman has, one of creating such strong characters and relationships that we dearly love, and continuing to build upon these relationships between families and friendships throughout the series. They are lively, engaging and make you wish you could often be right there with them!

One lesson that shined forth in this story was that of battling our fears. Do we let our fears guide our decisions or do we follow God in faith? God did not give us a spirit of fear, He broke our chains and set us free! There are abundant blessings He has for us if we will step out in faith and embrace our freedom in Christ!

As an aside, I will mention that there are some steamy moments included in this novel between some of the married couples. Nothing explicit! Just a lot of sizzle, all the while remaining clean.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series, and this last novel was the icing on the cake! Happy sighs!!! I am eager to see what Lessman has in store for us next! In the mean time, savor this one!

[Alexia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this modern day series by Lessman. Here are each of my reviews for each book.

4 stars
Isle of Hope: Unfailing Love (Isle of Hope Series (Edgy Inspirational) Book 1)
A Must Read
Bydoodledeedooon March 9, 2016
Verified Purchase
Format: Kindle Edition
I love Julie'so books. My library wouldn't get the book, so I bought the ebook. So worth paying for! Can't wait for the others in the series.

5 stars
Love Everlasting (Isle of Hope series (Edgy Inspirational) Book 2)
Don't miss this one!
Bydoodledeedooon October 8, 2016
Verified Purchase
Format: Kindle Edition
I really loved this novel! I loved both characters and Lessman's writing. Don't miss this great read. There is so much depth, substance, and tension. Absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to read about Cat! This will be on my favorites shelf. I highly recommend this authors books. She is so talented and one of my top 3 favorite authors alongside Laura Frantz and Julie Klassen. I have read every work of fiction by her. Enjoy!!!!

5 stars
His Steadfast Love (Isle of Hope Book 3)
Wonderful read!
Bydoodledeedooon August 8, 2017
Verified Purchase
Format: Kindle Edition
Julie Lessman is one of the few authors I will dish out my own money to buy a book instead of getting it from the library. I love her writing and this book and series has been amazing. Her, Laura Frantz, Becky Wade, Julie Klassen, and Jenny B Jones are some of my favorite authors. Well worth the money and time. Thank you for blessing us with your talent!


4 stars
A Glimmer of Hope prequel .5
I love Lessman's books. I didn't mind her going into modern romance at all because I knew it would be great. This is a great prequel to the first book in the series. I also highly recommend her other series!

[Claudine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Lessman
Isle of Hope series

I thoroughly enjoyed these books, each one with its ups and downs, trials and triumphs. I especially enjoyed that the story was written in our current time, highlighting the temptations that we face today, it was so easy to relate to the characters with their fears, and hopes and dreams. As with all of the Julies writing, it was beautifully descriptive and eloquent, a true joy to read. I could ‘see’ the characters, their homes, the lake, all of the main places described in the books. Seeing the story unfold on the screen of my mind, with effortless flow. The scripture that would speak to each character, at the opportune time, was a great reminder that Holy Spirit is right there alongside us, counselling us, coaching and teaching us with the Word right when we need it, if we will have an ear and a heart to hear. I really gained much from this, the Lord speaking while I read the books, one after the other as time would allow. I found myself looking forward to my reading time, not so much to escape as I have with other books, but instead as a time where the Lord would speak through the book. Even though it was a work of fiction, I believe whole heartedly that the hand of the Lord is on these books, and ministers through them. The Word interwoven throughout the story, is a true blessing and I gained so much from reading these. I so look forward to the next beautiful instalment from Julie.

[Melissa Wardwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and forgiveness go hand in hand

I can not convey how much I loved this series. Having been to Isle of Hope myself, I could picture perfectly each location. Each story of forgiveness and redemption even struck a cord in my own heart. Kind of a Psalm 139 moment.
I love that Julie is not afraid to push the envelope on CF so that the stories are more relatable. Christians have passion, have sketchy backgrounds, and fall from time to time.
Thank you , Julie, for being real and honest.

[JoAnn Luberto-Geisel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lessons of Faith andUnfailing Love

This series of books carry the reader through years of challenge, adversity, forgiveness and renewal of family, faith, and love for the Carmichael and O’Bryon families.

Using the Word of God throughout the stories, the author models Biblical concepts in real-life situations. A wonderful trilogy that draws the reader into each of the lives of the various characters.

[phyllis roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved these books !!!!!! Highly recommend

Enjoyed everything about these books. Love that these books show that we all make mistakes but God forgives all our sins if only we confess and ask Him to forgive us.

[sandra m. rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best collection ever!

Tears and laughter throughout the series. The scriptures that were woven throughout the stories were so appropriate and thought provoking that I saw these scrim a whole new way
Thank you

[Pat Arena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the bundle

So,glad I bought all 3 books together and was able to,continue reading about the families of Hope Beach. Loved the stories,of,spiritual growth and love. The cast of characters at the beginning of each was really helpful.

[Doris Woodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series

I love when an author writes about families in a series. This was about two families, not perfect, but because of their faith and trust in God they were able to overcome their failures.

[Sue Ferryman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Family Collection!

Author Julie Lessman writes with real warmth and her character's are believable! Each story was a story of faith, yet there were temptations, failures but forgiveness triumphed.

[Wendi Huisman kitsteiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Lessman is my favorite Christian fiction writer next to Francine Rivers. Can’t recommend her enough. If you like clean romance and great character development you will love Julie. I also love the historical fiction aspect of many of her books.

[F Rahlo Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

I loved these stories. From beginning to end, the twists and turns, laughter, tears, hope, forgiveness. It is amazing what God can do. Ready for more!

[Pat Turk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed but a little long characters well done

A little long but kept my interest to the end. A comfort read
And kept my interest . Good profiles

[Romina Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this trilogy down, the characters are complex with lots of ups and downs along the way, but redemption was not far away from each character. God’s Love is enough.

[Kara Groat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful series! Realistic characters and life issues with an emphasis on relying on the Lord to help them.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a highly entertaining trilogy. I found the stories so gripping that I often read into the wee hours of the morning.

[David Lee Anderdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great Christian Romance

There’s nothing like reading a good book and learning from it at the same time in which you don’t even realize until the end of the story.

[Ashley Carl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection makes me heart remember, and sore, and love, and break, and fly all at the same time. I loved this series I'd recommend it to everyone!