What do you think?
Rate this book
California Elite #1
Collision of Wills
A snobby rich girl meets a rough around the edges artist. Can two people from completely different worlds come together? Alexa Covington lived in a wealthy community in Malibu, California. She liked pretty boys, shopping, and trips to the spa with her posse of mean girls—in that order.
Dylan West wanted to be an artist, but he felt confined to a life painting houses instead. Despite the fact that he longed for something more, he was determined to follow the path his father set out for him.
Back in high school, Dylan had a crush on Alexa, but he moved on. When their paths crossed years later, she barely remembered him.
One night, after volunteering at a teen center, Alexa walked to her car alone and was nearly assaulted. Dylan came to her rescue, and the two were forced to spend time together in urgent care.
An unlikely friendship ensued and feelings grew despite their differences.
Even if they wanted to, they couldn’t walk away from each other.
Dylan made Alexa rethink everything about her life of privilege.
But when her mother threatened to cut her off if she didn’t leave Dylan, Alexa was forced to make a choice. Continue living the entitled existence she’d always known or choose another path, one that would change her world forever.
Maybe, just maybe, love would find a way.
This is a contemporary Christian story of redemption that takes the characters on a journey as they count the cost of the Christian life and learn to treasure Christ most of all.
Dylan West wanted to be an artist, but he felt confined to a life painting houses instead. Despite the fact that he longed for something more, he was determined to follow the path his father set out for him.
Back in high school, Dylan had a crush on Alexa, but he moved on. When their paths crossed years later, she barely remembered him.
One night, after volunteering at a teen center, Alexa walked to her car alone and was nearly assaulted. Dylan came to her rescue, and the two were forced to spend time together in urgent care.
An unlikely friendship ensued and feelings grew despite their differences.
Even if they wanted to, they couldn’t walk away from each other.
Dylan made Alexa rethink everything about her life of privilege.
But when her mother threatened to cut her off if she didn’t leave Dylan, Alexa was forced to make a choice. Continue living the entitled existence she’d always known or choose another path, one that would change her world forever.
Maybe, just maybe, love would find a way.
This is a contemporary Christian story of redemption that takes the characters on a journey as they count the cost of the Christian life and learn to treasure Christ most of all.
- GenresClean Romance
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2018
303 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Evangeline Kelly
44 books211 followersEvangeline Kelly is the pen name I use to write contemporary Christian romance books. When I was a kid, I had two dreams. One was to work with at risk youth and the other was to write books. After pursuing my passion of working with foster children for over twenty years, I finally decided to pursue my childhood dream of writing.
I love a good book that draws you in and takes hold of your heart. When I write, I hope to show real life situations people go through and how God uses those situations to draw us closer to Himself.
I’ve witnessed suffering in my line of work, but I’ve also witnessed God’s redeeming love. A good Christian romance features both hardship and delight. My hope is that my stories not only entertain, but encourage, and most of all, that they bring glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Visit my Amazon Author Page!
https://www.amazon.com/Evangeline-Kel...
Sign-up for my newsletter and receive my book, Matchmaker for free.
http://eepurl.com/cQsCTb
Visit my Author Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/EvangelineKe...
I love a good book that draws you in and takes hold of your heart. When I write, I hope to show real life situations people go through and how God uses those situations to draw us closer to Himself.
I’ve witnessed suffering in my line of work, but I’ve also witnessed God’s redeeming love. A good Christian romance features both hardship and delight. My hope is that my stories not only entertain, but encourage, and most of all, that they bring glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Visit my Amazon Author Page!
https://www.amazon.com/Evangeline-Kel...
Sign-up for my newsletter and receive my book, Matchmaker for free.
http://eepurl.com/cQsCTb
Visit my Author Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/EvangelineKe...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 23, 2018
“Opposites may attract, but I wouldn’t put my money on a relationship of financial opposites.” –Suze Orman
Rating: trigger warning: attack attempt…though not successful: clean, faith-based story with references to God and Jesus Christ, scriptures read and quoted, prayers for self and others will be mentioned and a stream of conscience dialogue between a character and God. Exchange of stories between characters on their conversion experience.
The girls: the classic story that centered around 20-something-college-aged characters. We have a trio of rich mean girls [Alexa, Calista and Lynette] who grew up together privileged and entitled and attended the same private school together. Their days centered around shopping, spa treatments, shopping, expensive clothes, shopping, shoes, shopping and self-indulgence that seemed to be the only driving force in their lives. That is, until Alexa found a new meaning to her life in accepting Christ as her Lord and Savior. This new perspective gave her an opportunity to examine her life style and discover who she was as a person of Christ and what she wanted with her new life. She soon pulled away from the influence of the other two so called friends. There would be conflict as they didn’t understand her new perspective.
The inside of the cover stated that this was “An Opposites attract Romance,” and “The California Elite Series.”
Daughter vs Mother: cliché rich snobbish mother wanting her daughter to marry a rich husband no matter his character. She herself was a trophy wife and that was good enough for her daughter. She refused to listen when her daughter tried to explain that she didn’t love Armstrong and he certainly didn’t love her. She saw the world through her own colored lens and made excuses for his bad behavior and tried to explain… that was the way things were in their circle.
Rich guy vs poor guy: Lucas Armstrong, the rich snobbish and entitled young man that wanted to marry her… his reason… in order to get his inheritance, he had to marry. Dylan West, scholarship kid who attended the same private school with the others, was a talented artist who had loved Alexa since high school. He wanted to see the best in her regardless of her friends’ influence.
Father vs father: Armstrong… a maniacal, controlling billionaire who had married his own trophy wife, saw nothing wrong with whatever his son wanted. West… a man with many secrets, was determined that his son would have a career that could support him and or a family… did not approve of his son dabbling in the arts. This was the greatest conflict between father and son.
What I didn’t like: early in the story, I think the author went too far in the negative descriptions of the West father character. When the reveal happened at the end… which was a total surprise and I loved it… however, I had so pictured him a different negative way… as this horrid person… that my dislike of him was so negative and engrained that when the surprise happened in the pairing… I just couldn’t accept it due to my negative picture of him. This cognitive dissonance was a terrible jolt to me. I saw him one way and the author really wanted him another way. I think that bridge could have been shored up a bit and made the transition better for the reveal. Other than that I liked the story.
Religious references: Although this was a faith-based story… it was not preachy. Characters would have a normal conversation about their religious experience and preferences and was not intended to proselytize. Not all of the characters were people of faith and there would be conflicts between believers and non-believers. There were references to scriptures, a pastor giving counsel to a troubled church member, silent prayer for guidance and a faith-based life decision.
I volunteered to read an ARC [Advanced Reader Copy] prior to the July 3rd publication date. This is an honest review [3.5-stars round to 4-stars].
Rating: trigger warning: attack attempt…though not successful: clean, faith-based story with references to God and Jesus Christ, scriptures read and quoted, prayers for self and others will be mentioned and a stream of conscience dialogue between a character and God. Exchange of stories between characters on their conversion experience.
The girls: the classic story that centered around 20-something-college-aged characters. We have a trio of rich mean girls [Alexa, Calista and Lynette] who grew up together privileged and entitled and attended the same private school together. Their days centered around shopping, spa treatments, shopping, expensive clothes, shopping, shoes, shopping and self-indulgence that seemed to be the only driving force in their lives. That is, until Alexa found a new meaning to her life in accepting Christ as her Lord and Savior. This new perspective gave her an opportunity to examine her life style and discover who she was as a person of Christ and what she wanted with her new life. She soon pulled away from the influence of the other two so called friends. There would be conflict as they didn’t understand her new perspective.
The inside of the cover stated that this was “An Opposites attract Romance,” and “The California Elite Series.”
Daughter vs Mother: cliché rich snobbish mother wanting her daughter to marry a rich husband no matter his character. She herself was a trophy wife and that was good enough for her daughter. She refused to listen when her daughter tried to explain that she didn’t love Armstrong and he certainly didn’t love her. She saw the world through her own colored lens and made excuses for his bad behavior and tried to explain… that was the way things were in their circle.
Rich guy vs poor guy: Lucas Armstrong, the rich snobbish and entitled young man that wanted to marry her… his reason… in order to get his inheritance, he had to marry. Dylan West, scholarship kid who attended the same private school with the others, was a talented artist who had loved Alexa since high school. He wanted to see the best in her regardless of her friends’ influence.
Father vs father: Armstrong… a maniacal, controlling billionaire who had married his own trophy wife, saw nothing wrong with whatever his son wanted. West… a man with many secrets, was determined that his son would have a career that could support him and or a family… did not approve of his son dabbling in the arts. This was the greatest conflict between father and son.
What I didn’t like: early in the story, I think the author went too far in the negative descriptions of the West father character. When the reveal happened at the end… which was a total surprise and I loved it… however, I had so pictured him a different negative way… as this horrid person… that my dislike of him was so negative and engrained that when the surprise happened in the pairing… I just couldn’t accept it due to my negative picture of him. This cognitive dissonance was a terrible jolt to me. I saw him one way and the author really wanted him another way. I think that bridge could have been shored up a bit and made the transition better for the reveal. Other than that I liked the story.
Religious references: Although this was a faith-based story… it was not preachy. Characters would have a normal conversation about their religious experience and preferences and was not intended to proselytize. Not all of the characters were people of faith and there would be conflicts between believers and non-believers. There were references to scriptures, a pastor giving counsel to a troubled church member, silent prayer for guidance and a faith-based life decision.
I volunteered to read an ARC [Advanced Reader Copy] prior to the July 3rd publication date. This is an honest review [3.5-stars round to 4-stars].
July 7, 2018
To Be opposites, They Have a Lot in Common
Ahhhh, Alexa and Dylan. They both have a lot to learn. Alexa needs to learn how to ‘drop down’ a little from her high flying society world while Dylan needs to elevate his goals and not ‘settle’. Do dreams come true? Yes and No. They can with a little bit of work and a whole lot of faith thrown into the mix.
Alexa never wanted for anything money could buy …. problem is, money couldn’t buy her what she wanted.
Dylan? Well, he learned early in life to not want…. period. Didn’t matter if money could buy it or not…. he knew he couldn’t have it. He either couldn’t afford it or wouldn’t be allowed to have it if he could. He went to the best school in town… a private academy where only the rich could attend. He was anything but rich… well not rich with money, but he sure was rich in IQ and in dreams. He was awarded a scholarship to this very prestigious school but always was looked down upon by the other students as ‘that poor kid’.
To young Alexa, Dylan was invisible. To young Dylan, Alexa was beyond his reach, but he would admire her from afar. However, things changed after those impetuous high school academy days. Dylan, now a college student, and Alexa now a college dropout, have learned a thing or two in this journey called life. How quickly the tables can turn and misunderstandings can change perspectives. No longer is Dylan invisible to Alexa, he’s now the one who is out of reach. He does his best to steer clear of her. But Alexa isn’t settling for being invisible. She wants to know why Dylan is avoiding her.
They both have family issues… both lost parents at a young age, and both have to live with parents who are overbearing and controlling. But, the one BIG thing they have going for them is G_d. They both are believers… still feasting on the ‘milk and honey’ kind of faith while slowly being weaned to ‘meat’. Watching them learn the difference between talking the talk vs walking the walk will keep a reader turning the pages. And who knows, even the overbearing and controlling parents may just learn a thing or two traveling along this obstacle course of life.
June 23, 2018
I didn’t want to put this book down. Initially I wasn’t sure how well I would get in to it. The thought of the main female character being a shallow, snobby, materialistic princess type wasn’t a draw for me. But I figured that it would have to get better since this is an opposites attract storyline. And I’m glad I read it. Turns out the snob was actually really kind hearted - just lived in an environment where she was taught to put herself first & to hold material things of upmost importance & value. Eventually she realises that she wants more out of life. That her current lifestyle isn’t giving her real happiness.
Enter our hero - a tough looking artist who sees our hero for who she really is, or at least could be, but is scared to open his heart to all the possibilities a relationship with her could hold. Combined with external pressures & opposition we have great potential for the classic miscommunication dilemma most romance novels portray. I was gearing up for the book to go that way, but was pleasantly surprised that the author actually wrote the critical scene the way she did. Whilst there was some conflict & emotional stress which could have dragged the book out needlessly, communication lines were kept open. The point of difficulty was resolved.
I could go on about all the points I liked about this book but I’ll keep it down to two - the fact that it is a clean book! And the interactions between all of the characters - despite there being a lot of potential for negative feelings from certain characters & their interactions, I appreciate that the author took a higher moral ground with her characters :)
Overall, a feel good, clean & fun read. Can definitely recommend & would enjoy reading the follow up book when it comes out.
I received an ARC from the author free in exchange for an honest review.
Enter our hero - a tough looking artist who sees our hero for who she really is, or at least could be, but is scared to open his heart to all the possibilities a relationship with her could hold. Combined with external pressures & opposition we have great potential for the classic miscommunication dilemma most romance novels portray. I was gearing up for the book to go that way, but was pleasantly surprised that the author actually wrote the critical scene the way she did. Whilst there was some conflict & emotional stress which could have dragged the book out needlessly, communication lines were kept open. The point of difficulty was resolved.
I could go on about all the points I liked about this book but I’ll keep it down to two - the fact that it is a clean book! And the interactions between all of the characters - despite there being a lot of potential for negative feelings from certain characters & their interactions, I appreciate that the author took a higher moral ground with her characters :)
Overall, a feel good, clean & fun read. Can definitely recommend & would enjoy reading the follow up book when it comes out.
I received an ARC from the author free in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were real and dealt with real issues. They had faith that allowed them to accomplish their greatest desires.
Alexa Covington was a rich snob who had never had to work a day in her life. In fact, she dropped out of college because she couldn't make up her mind what to major in. Dylan West had struggled all of his life and came from a poor background in which both his mother and brother had died when he was young. He was the one left to try and support his father. By doing so, he had set his own dreams of becoming an artist aside to help his dad.
Alexa and Dylan had gone to high school together, Dylan on a scholarship, but Alexa and never paid him any attention at all. Dylan had watched her from afar and had seen her perform an act of genuine kindness but the group she hung out with were mean, rich snobs so he gave up on the idea of them ever being together.
As young adults, they met up again and Alexa began to see a different side to Dylan. He was kind, generous, protective and honest. She wanted him to like her so she set about changing who she was to reflect more of what she wanted to become. In doing so, Dylan began to see her beauty on the inside. They were completely different worlds, though, and being together would require sacrifice on both their parts to be together. Was it worth it? Would they be willing to give up so much with the hopes of gaining more?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and I am so glad I took the time to read it. It put a smile on my face and I felt better for having read it. The story was clean and had no foul language or sex to detract from the story.
Alexa Covington was a rich snob who had never had to work a day in her life. In fact, she dropped out of college because she couldn't make up her mind what to major in. Dylan West had struggled all of his life and came from a poor background in which both his mother and brother had died when he was young. He was the one left to try and support his father. By doing so, he had set his own dreams of becoming an artist aside to help his dad.
Alexa and Dylan had gone to high school together, Dylan on a scholarship, but Alexa and never paid him any attention at all. Dylan had watched her from afar and had seen her perform an act of genuine kindness but the group she hung out with were mean, rich snobs so he gave up on the idea of them ever being together.
As young adults, they met up again and Alexa began to see a different side to Dylan. He was kind, generous, protective and honest. She wanted him to like her so she set about changing who she was to reflect more of what she wanted to become. In doing so, Dylan began to see her beauty on the inside. They were completely different worlds, though, and being together would require sacrifice on both their parts to be together. Was it worth it? Would they be willing to give up so much with the hopes of gaining more?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and I am so glad I took the time to read it. It put a smile on my face and I felt better for having read it. The story was clean and had no foul language or sex to detract from the story.
July 1, 2018
KNOCKING IT DOWN A NOTCH!!!
Ok guys, are you ready? Nah, I don't think you are, but you're stuck with me. Leave it up to Evangeline to put a refeshing spin on an old topic. She has such an incredible talent for drawing us into the world she's created just for our enjoyment. Her characters are always fresh with such individual qualities and traits that is like 3D up close and personal. The characters are intriguing and complex with such varying views with just enough flaws that make them believable and relatable as their personalities grow and tranform into the roles they were ment to play. The scenes are vividly detailed and graphic that its like walking along their journey with them. You feel everything they feel. A few twists and turns with unexpected surprises that it throws you into the reality of this current page turner and keeps you immersed until the very last word. Evangelines style always seems to flow smoothly throughout the entire read. Evangeline did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Great job Evangeline, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
Ok guys, are you ready? Nah, I don't think you are, but you're stuck with me. Leave it up to Evangeline to put a refeshing spin on an old topic. She has such an incredible talent for drawing us into the world she's created just for our enjoyment. Her characters are always fresh with such individual qualities and traits that is like 3D up close and personal. The characters are intriguing and complex with such varying views with just enough flaws that make them believable and relatable as their personalities grow and tranform into the roles they were ment to play. The scenes are vividly detailed and graphic that its like walking along their journey with them. You feel everything they feel. A few twists and turns with unexpected surprises that it throws you into the reality of this current page turner and keeps you immersed until the very last word. Evangelines style always seems to flow smoothly throughout the entire read. Evangeline did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Great job Evangeline, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
July 3, 2018
KNOCKING IT DOWN A NOTCH!!!
Ok guys, are you ready? Nah, I don't think you are, but you're stuck with me. Leave it up to Evangeline to put a refeshing spin on an old topic. She has such an incredible talent for drawing us into the world she's created just for our enjoyment. Her characters are always fresh with such individual qualities and traits that is like 3D up close and personal. The characters are intriguing and complex with such varying views with just enough flaws that make them believable and relatable as their personalities grow and tranform into the roles they were ment to play. The scenes are vividly detailed and graphic that its like walking along their journey with them. You feel everything they feel. A few twists and turns with unexpected surprises that it throws you into the reality of this current page turner and keeps you immersed until the very last word. Evangelines style always seems to flow smoothly throughout the entire read. Evangeline did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Great job Evangeline, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
Ok guys, are you ready? Nah, I don't think you are, but you're stuck with me. Leave it up to Evangeline to put a refeshing spin on an old topic. She has such an incredible talent for drawing us into the world she's created just for our enjoyment. Her characters are always fresh with such individual qualities and traits that is like 3D up close and personal. The characters are intriguing and complex with such varying views with just enough flaws that make them believable and relatable as their personalities grow and tranform into the roles they were ment to play. The scenes are vividly detailed and graphic that its like walking along their journey with them. You feel everything they feel. A few twists and turns with unexpected surprises that it throws you into the reality of this current page turner and keeps you immersed until the very last word. Evangelines style always seems to flow smoothly throughout the entire read. Evangeline did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Great job Evangeline, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
June 22, 2018
Collision of Wills is an inspirational story set in modern-day California. This engaging page-turner brings to life, with realism and authenticity, the struggles of a privileged girl, Alexa, who chooses to free herself from the influences of wealth, superficial friends, and an overbearing mother to find a freedom and love worth fighting for. And Dylan, a man who overcomes loss, heartache, and disappointment to embrace his purpose and the blessings God has for him. The storyline and plot are exciting and kept me turning the page. I enjoyed the character development in this story; the characters were flawed and realistic but they learned through God’s love and grace to become a better version of themselves.
Favorite and oh so romantic quote: “I saw your kindness back then, and I still see it to this day. Just wanted you to know that I see the real you. I love the beautiful woman you are on the outside, but it's your heart that captured me."
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Favorite and oh so romantic quote: “I saw your kindness back then, and I still see it to this day. Just wanted you to know that I see the real you. I love the beautiful woman you are on the outside, but it's your heart that captured me."
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 15, 2023
Although I wasn't sure about this book at the start (the FMC seemed spoiled, cold, and unlikeable), I'm glad I stuck it out. Alexa grew and changed throughout the book, and I really enjoyed the way her relationship with Dylan progressed.
The faith journey of both characters was interesting, and the chemistry between them was believable. The reader gets lots of sweet moments of the characters interacting with one another, and you get to see a lot of believable growth in Alexa, and her relationships with Dylan, her mother, and her friends. I liked the fact that Alexa was so confident in many ways, and even though she realised her wealth was an idol, she didn't ever deny the fact that she was an attractive woman who enjoyed looking good (and there was nothing wrong with that). Her insecurities rested more in her character than in her person.
I liked the way the main characters communicated in this book. Their relationship was healthy, and founded on a growing faith in God.
A sweet, clean romance that I read in one sitting (and finished at 3am--whoops!)
The faith journey of both characters was interesting, and the chemistry between them was believable. The reader gets lots of sweet moments of the characters interacting with one another, and you get to see a lot of believable growth in Alexa, and her relationships with Dylan, her mother, and her friends. I liked the fact that Alexa was so confident in many ways, and even though she realised her wealth was an idol, she didn't ever deny the fact that she was an attractive woman who enjoyed looking good (and there was nothing wrong with that). Her insecurities rested more in her character than in her person.
I liked the way the main characters communicated in this book. Their relationship was healthy, and founded on a growing faith in God.
A sweet, clean romance that I read in one sitting (and finished at 3am--whoops!)
July 11, 2018
Opposites may attract; but this couple has opposing friends and parents, too!
Alexa, whose close friends say is the “queen of indifference,” and a boy who is given a chance to develop his artistic talent, never really spent time together in high school, where he had a scholarship to attend. But, they find themselves somewhat drawn to each other, after an incident at the art museum. She had become a Christian, and was seeing the world differently, now. When her ex-boyfriend takes her on, loud and obnoxiously, Dylan walks over and stops him. She was impressed; but ends up playing the scene down, to keep Dylan from being ejected from the museum by the guy who was bothering her. A spark of interest begins in her, but she finds resistance from her mother, and Dylan isn’t willing to chance trouble for her, or himself. It is an excellent book, and you will likely have trouble setting it down for very long! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I definitely would!
Alexa, whose close friends say is the “queen of indifference,” and a boy who is given a chance to develop his artistic talent, never really spent time together in high school, where he had a scholarship to attend. But, they find themselves somewhat drawn to each other, after an incident at the art museum. She had become a Christian, and was seeing the world differently, now. When her ex-boyfriend takes her on, loud and obnoxiously, Dylan walks over and stops him. She was impressed; but ends up playing the scene down, to keep Dylan from being ejected from the museum by the guy who was bothering her. A spark of interest begins in her, but she finds resistance from her mother, and Dylan isn’t willing to chance trouble for her, or himself. It is an excellent book, and you will likely have trouble setting it down for very long! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I definitely would!
June 29, 2018
When I first started reading this book, several of the characters really rubbed the wrong way, and I almost stopped reading. But I’ve loved every Evangeline Kelly book I’ve read, so I continued, and I am so thankful that I did! I loved the open communication that developed between Alexa and Dylan, and witnessing Alexa’s growth in her faith. Sometimes, it feels to me, that no matter how strong my conviction of the truth is, it takes almost constant recommitment. It helps to know I’m not the only one, and that redemption is available to anyone who will make the commitment and effort. I loved how Alexa was able to help Dylan and his father open up and reconnect with each other. This was a wonderful book, and I’m glad I was able to get it through Bookfunnel. The choice to review was my own, so I could share how wonderful this book was!
July 4, 2018
Received a free copy of the book and am giving my opinion voluntarily. An interesting look into the lives of two people overcoming the stigma of their positions in society. The two main characters are Alexa who is young, wealthy, spoiled etc. Alexa has newly embraced her faith and is just so so as a Christian and Dylan who is from the 'wrong side of the tracks' and has embraced his faith about 5 years ago. Alexa and Dylan are drawn together when Alexa is being bullied by a man who wants her to marry him and Dylan comes to her rescue. Actually they have been aware of each other since high school (more Dylan than Alexa). The story is told as what Alexa is doing, seeing and feeling and the same for Dylan. Alexa finds herself growing up, becoming her own person and embracing her faith. Dylan finds acceptance, answers and Alexa's love. A very interesting tale and an easy satisfying read.
December 19, 2018
The couple that grows a backbone together
The popular romance trope of the rich girl and the poor guy is handled well here. Alexa is a new Christian who is still trying to figure things out. She's beginning to recognize the things in her life that are incongruent with following Jesus.
Dylan has been a Christian longer, but is still working on trusting the Lord.
The two learn to stand up for themselves and each other in different ways but it works to bring them closer together. Everything works out happily in the end.
I actually read the sequel to this 1st, in which Aria goes to work for Lucas, so it's interesting seeing the character arc that the author created for him. I enjoyed this book, but I heartily recommend the 2nd as being even better - Lucas's conversion and redemption story is one of my favorites.
Clean romance level: sweet kisses
The popular romance trope of the rich girl and the poor guy is handled well here. Alexa is a new Christian who is still trying to figure things out. She's beginning to recognize the things in her life that are incongruent with following Jesus.
Dylan has been a Christian longer, but is still working on trusting the Lord.
The two learn to stand up for themselves and each other in different ways but it works to bring them closer together. Everything works out happily in the end.
I actually read the sequel to this 1st, in which Aria goes to work for Lucas, so it's interesting seeing the character arc that the author created for him. I enjoyed this book, but I heartily recommend the 2nd as being even better - Lucas's conversion and redemption story is one of my favorites.
Clean romance level: sweet kisses
July 2, 2018
Evangeline Kelly does it again! Her characters are always fresh & believable and this book delivers again.
Set in California, the "princess snob" and the "blue collar" guy are just like any neighbors you might know. Their struggles to put God first and to understand and follow his will make this story a page turned you won't want to put down. I loved how the chemistry develops between these two totally different worlds.
The supporting characters, true to Evageline's wonderful writing style, all draw you in closer to the story.
I highly recommend Collision of Wills. Prepare to lose sleep ~ you won't want to stop reading until the end.
Set in California, the "princess snob" and the "blue collar" guy are just like any neighbors you might know. Their struggles to put God first and to understand and follow his will make this story a page turned you won't want to put down. I loved how the chemistry develops between these two totally different worlds.
The supporting characters, true to Evageline's wonderful writing style, all draw you in closer to the story.
I highly recommend Collision of Wills. Prepare to lose sleep ~ you won't want to stop reading until the end.
June 24, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Collision of Wills is now my favorite of this author's. I really enjoyed the story line and I really loved the hero. Dylan was not afraid of conflict and defended the defenseless. He was a peacemaker too.
It is so fun to see an author you enjoy blossom and that is what happened with this book. I can't wait until the next one.
This is a clean read with a precious inspirational message about storing up treasures.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author and was under no obligation to leave a review.
Collision of Wills is now my favorite of this author's. I really enjoyed the story line and I really loved the hero. Dylan was not afraid of conflict and defended the defenseless. He was a peacemaker too.
It is so fun to see an author you enjoy blossom and that is what happened with this book. I can't wait until the next one.
This is a clean read with a precious inspirational message about storing up treasures.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author and was under no obligation to leave a review.
June 29, 2018
The Caterpillar Becomes The Butterfly
What a wonderful, modern, clean, faith-filled romance! This is the kind of story I can really sink my teeth into. The length lets the reader obtain the richness of detail that makes the story come alive. The plot is deep and well executed. The characters are all multi-layered with complex motives. The moral of the story? Let go and let God. I enjoy this author's work and will continue to read her work. I received this ARC book for free and this is my honest review.
What a wonderful, modern, clean, faith-filled romance! This is the kind of story I can really sink my teeth into. The length lets the reader obtain the richness of detail that makes the story come alive. The plot is deep and well executed. The characters are all multi-layered with complex motives. The moral of the story? Let go and let God. I enjoy this author's work and will continue to read her work. I received this ARC book for free and this is my honest review.
July 1, 2018
This was an amazing story. I loved the characters and the plot grabbed me from the beginning and wouldn't let me go. Alexa is a new believer. I loved watching her grow in her faith and in her character throughout the book. Dylan has had a rough life and has such a tender heart. I enjoyed seeing his soft side come out as we learned about his past. The chemistry between the couple was great and yet still clean. I loved their integrity with each other and with their families. I highly recommend this to anyone that loves clean coming-of-age romance.
August 28, 2018
WOW!!!!!
This story was intense, with so many twists and turns. I was really excited about the characters being willing to allow God to work in their lives. However, I do have one point on which I disagree with. God does NOT USE pain to draw is closer to Him. He is a loving God who sent His son Jesus to die and be raised from the dead so that we may have a victorious love in Him. He came that we may have life and live it to the full and enjoy our life in Him. We have an enemy who tries to steal kill and destroy us by any means possible.
This story was intense, with so many twists and turns. I was really excited about the characters being willing to allow God to work in their lives. However, I do have one point on which I disagree with. God does NOT USE pain to draw is closer to Him. He is a loving God who sent His son Jesus to die and be raised from the dead so that we may have a victorious love in Him. He came that we may have life and live it to the full and enjoy our life in Him. We have an enemy who tries to steal kill and destroy us by any means possible.
June 22, 2018
I truly loved Collision of Wills. I actually cried at the end. 😂 The spiritual journey that both Alexa and Dylan traveled was heartwarming. The book was not too long and written in such a way that I could actually picture in my mind eye not only the scenes of each chapter but also the paintings that Dylan painted. Evangeline Kelly is a very gifted author and her book was a joy to read. I hope to read more of her books soon.
June 25, 2018
Evangeline Kelly. Collision of wills
This was a beautiful love story that my 14 year old granddaughter could read. I loved how faith was a big part of the book and the characters lived their Christian lives with integrity.
The characters in this book were more "real " than many books. They had realistic struggles and were able to conquer many obstacles.
This book reminds me a little of a song I adore by "Mandisa" called Bleed the Same.
Excellent book!
This was a beautiful love story that my 14 year old granddaughter could read. I loved how faith was a big part of the book and the characters lived their Christian lives with integrity.
The characters in this book were more "real " than many books. They had realistic struggles and were able to conquer many obstacles.
This book reminds me a little of a song I adore by "Mandisa" called Bleed the Same.
Excellent book!
June 26, 2018
What a wonderful book! I normally don’t like contemporary but I know every time I pick up a book by Evangeline Kelly I’m going to love it. The characters in this book were ones you love to dislike and those you love. The story taught that without God you can never truly be happy. The story was very well written, It draws you in from page one. I couldn’t put it down until I was on the last page. This story sticks with you for days!
July 1, 2018
Excellent contemporary christian romance story. This couple appears to be completely opposite in a lot of areas in their life except for the only one that counts the most, their faith. Very heart warming journey for them as they learn to not rely on knowing a person based on an attraction (outward appearance) but more wisely their character which will always show the true heart of a person. Their realistic trials, test, grows and strengthens their faith.
July 9, 2018
I was just trying to remember the last time I'd read a book where the woman was the character with all the money and voila! Along came this story.
This is a great story about have's/nots, redefining ourselves (for both characters), and being/becoming a Christian in today's twisted world.
Each chapter is titled with the name of the character it's about, but even when I forgot to check that, I was never confused.
This is a great story about have's/nots, redefining ourselves (for both characters), and being/becoming a Christian in today's twisted world.
Each chapter is titled with the name of the character it's about, but even when I forgot to check that, I was never confused.
July 10, 2018
A Wonderful Read !
Alexa and Dylan went to the same private school. Alexa did not realize that Dylan even existed. Years later they meet again and they start to get to know each other. Will they fall in love or will she stay with her popular group? I received this book as an ARC for an honest opinion. I highly recommend this book and any book she has written. Love reading this author!
Alexa and Dylan went to the same private school. Alexa did not realize that Dylan even existed. Years later they meet again and they start to get to know each other. Will they fall in love or will she stay with her popular group? I received this book as an ARC for an honest opinion. I highly recommend this book and any book she has written. Love reading this author!
August 28, 2018
Excellent contemporary christian romance story. This couple appears to be completely opposite in a lot of areas in their life except for the only one that counts the most, their faith. Very heart warming journey for them as they learn to not rely on knowing a person based on an attraction (outward appearance) but more wisely their character which will always show the true heart of a person. Their realistic trials, test, grows and strengthens their faith.
January 25, 2019
Destiny for Opposites
God used the goodness within Alexa Covington after she becomes a Christian to help her leave the world of materialism and embrace putting God first. Dylan West received the consideration of Alexa and her attempts to come closer to God. They fall in love but are confronted with obstacles they can't overcome. God answers their prayers and they 're amazed at his grace.
God used the goodness within Alexa Covington after she becomes a Christian to help her leave the world of materialism and embrace putting God first. Dylan West received the consideration of Alexa and her attempts to come closer to God. They fall in love but are confronted with obstacles they can't overcome. God answers their prayers and they 're amazed at his grace.
April 16, 2019
I was just trying to remember the last time I'd read a book where the woman was the character with all the money and voila! Along came this story.
This is a great story about have's/nots, redefining ourselves (for both characters), and being/becoming a Christian in today's twisted world.
Each chapter is titled with the name of the character it's about, but even when I forgot to check that, I was never confused.
This is a great story about have's/nots, redefining ourselves (for both characters), and being/becoming a Christian in today's twisted world.
Each chapter is titled with the name of the character it's about, but even when I forgot to check that, I was never confused.
April 28, 2020
A light, easy read
I read this after reading the second book in the series, and i must say that lucas looks much more like a douche from this angle. Anyway, this book is pretty good - Alexa and Dylan are both great characters. The main issue I have is with Dylan's dad's sudden awakening / change of heart. It doesn't happen like that - complex issues cannot just be resolved so quickly. Oh well.
I read this after reading the second book in the series, and i must say that lucas looks much more like a douche from this angle. Anyway, this book is pretty good - Alexa and Dylan are both great characters. The main issue I have is with Dylan's dad's sudden awakening / change of heart. It doesn't happen like that - complex issues cannot just be resolved so quickly. Oh well.
June 17, 2024
Very interesting
Wow! What a ride! This story is like a multi-faceted diamond. There are so many sides to it and various characters are showcased. The main characters, Dylan & Alexa, are two very different people. Their journey to love is frought with challenges. The ending is different, but sweet. I particularly like how they grow in the Lord. Definitely recommend this dual POV story. I would like to read the next book in the series.
Wow! What a ride! This story is like a multi-faceted diamond. There are so many sides to it and various characters are showcased. The main characters, Dylan & Alexa, are two very different people. Their journey to love is frought with challenges. The ending is different, but sweet. I particularly like how they grow in the Lord. Definitely recommend this dual POV story. I would like to read the next book in the series.
June 25, 2018
I love this new story from Evangeline Kelly. Sometimes a life of privilege has too high a price to be paid. Many characters in this book, not just the main ones, have a lot of growing to do. The characters are well developed. The story kept me up quite late. I should know that I cannot quit reading in the middle of one of this author's stories! I highly recommend this sweet Christian romance.
June 25, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. So much that I read it in one sitting instead of doing the chores I needed to! I couldn't put it down. Alexa and Dylan's relationship is rocky but you are cheering for them to see each other through their outer shells. You won't regret getting this book. I can't wait to read even more from Evangeline Kelly.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews