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Summer Plans and Other Disasters
Elementary school music teacher Callie Stevens thinks she's finally figured out God 's plan for her life-she even made a list to keep her on track. Moving in with her brother and reconnecting with her ex-boyfriend are at the top of the list. What 's not on the list is running into her childhood crush, Ryan. God wanted her to connect with Kyle, right? Trying to figure out God 's plan is hard enough. But a dating-averse older brother, the young blonde who adores him, a pregnant best friend, and Callie 's continual mishaps make her wonder whether her best-laid plans were truly God-inspired. "The best-laid schemes o' mice an' men, Gang aft a-gley, And leave us nought but grief and pain, For promised joy." -Robert Browning
246 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2018
8 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Karin Beery
8 books160 followersHopeful fiction with a healthy dose of romance.
I fell in romance when I read Ned and Nancy (Drew) and Maryanne and Logan (The Baby-Sitters Club). I've been reading and writing them ever since.
A native Michigander, I love the water, all the seasons, and the University of Michigan football. I still live in Michigan with my husband and four fur babies.
I fell in romance when I read Ned and Nancy (Drew) and Maryanne and Logan (The Baby-Sitters Club). I've been reading and writing them ever since.
A native Michigander, I love the water, all the seasons, and the University of Michigan football. I still live in Michigan with my husband and four fur babies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 31, 2021
I really like this author and now I have read all of her books! They are always so fun and this one did not disappoint. We meet Callie who is a bit klutzy and accident prone. Right away I could totally relate to this part of her. I really enjoyed reading the four different point of views in this story from the four different characters: Ryan, Callie, Jack and Stacey. It definitely gave a different vibe to the book while reading and made it more interesting.
There is definitely romance and its clean and wholesome. Although there is an element of faith I didn't think it was too in your face. This story is definitely humorous so if you enjoy romantic comedies then this is the one to grab!
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
There is definitely romance and its clean and wholesome. Although there is an element of faith I didn't think it was too in your face. This story is definitely humorous so if you enjoy romantic comedies then this is the one to grab!
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 14, 2018
I recently joined forces with the Read with Audra book blogging group, and today's post is part of a Blog Tour for the book, Summer Plans and Other Disasters by Karin Beery.
There are four different point of views in this story: Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey.
Readers begin the story with Callie’s perspective. She is musically gifted as an an accomplished pianist, but very clumsy, and she seems to be good at one thing: music. Throughout the story, Callie seems to be having one mishap after another.
We learn that Callie has come back to her hometown in the hopes of rebuilding a past relationship with her former boyfriend, Kyle. Her plans for the future are interrupted when she learns that her brother's best friend, Ryan, is also going to be staying in the lighthouse. Callie spends most of her time chasing Kyle, except Ryan keeps tripping her up. She was certain that it was God's plan for her to come home and resume her relationship with Kyle.
Callie is afraid that if she was wrong about how she read God’s plan about Kyle, then perhaps she was wrong about everything. Sometimes it’s hard to be certain to know what God’s plans are, and Callie struggles to find that balance of doing what she is supposed to be doing without putting her own plans in place of God’s.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters had everything I find in a good book. The story is filled with relatable and believable characters, the story progressed at a nice steady pace, and the characters grew in their faith -- an added plus! This was a fun read as Callie finds out the plans she has put out for herself might not be the best for her after all.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings PR in exchange for my post. I was not required to post a positive review. Thank you!
There are four different point of views in this story: Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey.
Readers begin the story with Callie’s perspective. She is musically gifted as an an accomplished pianist, but very clumsy, and she seems to be good at one thing: music. Throughout the story, Callie seems to be having one mishap after another.
We learn that Callie has come back to her hometown in the hopes of rebuilding a past relationship with her former boyfriend, Kyle. Her plans for the future are interrupted when she learns that her brother's best friend, Ryan, is also going to be staying in the lighthouse. Callie spends most of her time chasing Kyle, except Ryan keeps tripping her up. She was certain that it was God's plan for her to come home and resume her relationship with Kyle.
Callie is afraid that if she was wrong about how she read God’s plan about Kyle, then perhaps she was wrong about everything. Sometimes it’s hard to be certain to know what God’s plans are, and Callie struggles to find that balance of doing what she is supposed to be doing without putting her own plans in place of God’s.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters had everything I find in a good book. The story is filled with relatable and believable characters, the story progressed at a nice steady pace, and the characters grew in their faith -- an added plus! This was a fun read as Callie finds out the plans she has put out for herself might not be the best for her after all.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings PR in exchange for my post. I was not required to post a positive review. Thank you!
October 1, 2018
SUMMER PLANS AND OTHER DISASTERS is Ms. Beery's first published book and it is a winner. Callie is a musically gifted klutz who seems to be no good at anything except music. She's flighty and accident-prone which does make for an entertaining read, though you have to wonder how a teacher who lives on her own could possibly be so clueless.
What I liked about this book most is that it was set at a real-life lighthouse that I've been to many times. Old Mission Light in Traverse City, Michigan.
There are four different point of views in this story: Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey. Readers are left with the impression that there might be two romances, and maybe there is the beginning of a second one. Callie spends most of her time chasing Kyle and dreaming of taking their former relationship into the future. She also spends a lot of time messing up so Jack has to redo her work. There isn't a whole lot of interaction between Ryan and Callie at the end of the book -- in fact he kind of disappears for awhile and I wondered if he'd moved out and what Callie thought of it, until I found out he hadn't.
There isn't much sexual tension, but there are a lot of confused adulting people roaming around -- which does add to the humor. There is also a good spiritual message.
For the more conservative bunch, there are some "soft swear words" and there is mention of going out for drinks. They don't actually do it.
I did enjoy reading SUMMER PLANS AND OTHER DISASTERS and it is nice to *finally* see this book in print.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
What I liked about this book most is that it was set at a real-life lighthouse that I've been to many times. Old Mission Light in Traverse City, Michigan.
There are four different point of views in this story: Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey. Readers are left with the impression that there might be two romances, and maybe there is the beginning of a second one. Callie spends most of her time chasing Kyle and dreaming of taking their former relationship into the future. She also spends a lot of time messing up so Jack has to redo her work. There isn't a whole lot of interaction between Ryan and Callie at the end of the book -- in fact he kind of disappears for awhile and I wondered if he'd moved out and what Callie thought of it, until I found out he hadn't.
There isn't much sexual tension, but there are a lot of confused adulting people roaming around -- which does add to the humor. There is also a good spiritual message.
For the more conservative bunch, there are some "soft swear words" and there is mention of going out for drinks. They don't actually do it.
I did enjoy reading SUMMER PLANS AND OTHER DISASTERS and it is nice to *finally* see this book in print.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2018
Proverbs 16:9
A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. NKJV
While this verse isn't mentioned in the book, it is clearly the theme of it. Callie has to have a plan and if she doesn't she is honestly lost. At least she thinks she is.
The snark and sass between Callie and her brother, Jack was fun and entertaining. There was a lot of that throughout the book. Even with the supporting characters, Stacey, Mae, and Ryan.
Callie's clumsiness is so familiar to me. Forget me attempting to power-wash a building and making a mess. I trip over my own feet in my house and the sprinkler head outside causing me to roll down the driveway. I like the contrast that Ms. Beery does with Callie being a very accomplished pianist and very clumsy. Callie was real character that anyone could relate to.
The patience of Jack, Callie's older brother was sweet and endearing. I did find him a pain off and on which made him a very rounded character.
My Bottom Line:
This is a definite romantic comedy, with a message synonymous to Proverbs 16:9 at the beginning of my review. The story is fun, relaxing, and even with the message Ms. Beery weaves throughout the book I didn't feel preached to. This was a completely entertaining, fun, engaging book. It is also Karin Beery's first published novel and she hit a home run with this one. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as a member of Read With Audra blogger program. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. NKJV
While this verse isn't mentioned in the book, it is clearly the theme of it. Callie has to have a plan and if she doesn't she is honestly lost. At least she thinks she is.
The snark and sass between Callie and her brother, Jack was fun and entertaining. There was a lot of that throughout the book. Even with the supporting characters, Stacey, Mae, and Ryan.
Callie's clumsiness is so familiar to me. Forget me attempting to power-wash a building and making a mess. I trip over my own feet in my house and the sprinkler head outside causing me to roll down the driveway. I like the contrast that Ms. Beery does with Callie being a very accomplished pianist and very clumsy. Callie was real character that anyone could relate to.
The patience of Jack, Callie's older brother was sweet and endearing. I did find him a pain off and on which made him a very rounded character.
My Bottom Line:
This is a definite romantic comedy, with a message synonymous to Proverbs 16:9 at the beginning of my review. The story is fun, relaxing, and even with the message Ms. Beery weaves throughout the book I didn't feel preached to. This was a completely entertaining, fun, engaging book. It is also Karin Beery's first published novel and she hit a home run with this one. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as a member of Read With Audra blogger program. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
October 9, 2018
Callie Stevens has a plan for the summer but is it the same one God has for her?
Karin Beery’s debut has plenty of humor (how could it not with an accident-prone heroine and lots of trouble for her to get into?). It also carries an excellent message for anyone who struggles to relinquish control of their lives.
Because Callie is so focus on making her plan work, she neglects to take it in front of God. When things fall apart, Callie is left adrift. Instead of seeing the great things God places in her path, she only sees her life crumbling.
Readers get a bonus romance between Callie’s brother Jack and a member of their church. It takes a while for these two siblings to get with the program, though (must run in the family).
Summer Plans and Other Disasters is a wonderful book to pick up when you are in the mood for a little romance with a few laughs thrown in. But it also reminds us that no matter what life throws at us, God is in control.
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.
Karin Beery’s debut has plenty of humor (how could it not with an accident-prone heroine and lots of trouble for her to get into?). It also carries an excellent message for anyone who struggles to relinquish control of their lives.
Because Callie is so focus on making her plan work, she neglects to take it in front of God. When things fall apart, Callie is left adrift. Instead of seeing the great things God places in her path, she only sees her life crumbling.
Readers get a bonus romance between Callie’s brother Jack and a member of their church. It takes a while for these two siblings to get with the program, though (must run in the family).
Summer Plans and Other Disasters is a wonderful book to pick up when you are in the mood for a little romance with a few laughs thrown in. But it also reminds us that no matter what life throws at us, God is in control.
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.
October 1, 2018
This was a whimsical story of living with past regrets and asking the what if questions. Callie Stevens has taken a good look at her life and realizes she might have let her ex-boyfriend Kyle get away too soon. Afraid of commitment she broke off their relationship till a few years later she begins thinking that maybe it is time to go back to her hometown and make things right.
She plans to move in with her brother Jack (who is a park ranger) and unbeknownst to her, her lifelong crush and best friend to her brother, Kyle, will also be bunking with Jack. As life teaches us all, the plans we make are often thrown out the window and poor Callie is a walking accident on top of everything else. This was a fun summer read as Callie finds out her plans may not be the best laid ones and love is in the air for everybody; a cute rom com about embracing the present gifts with all your heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
She plans to move in with her brother Jack (who is a park ranger) and unbeknownst to her, her lifelong crush and best friend to her brother, Kyle, will also be bunking with Jack. As life teaches us all, the plans we make are often thrown out the window and poor Callie is a walking accident on top of everything else. This was a fun summer read as Callie finds out her plans may not be the best laid ones and love is in the air for everybody; a cute rom com about embracing the present gifts with all your heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
October 4, 2018
This novel was a fun read. There is plenty of humor and frustrated romance contained within. Much of it is at the expense of Callie, however. She is a klutz, having one mishap after another. She is looking for love and has it all planned out. The only thing is that it seems God has other plans.
Callie was a character I had difficulty liking. She is uncoordinated and accident prone yet is an accomplished pianist. The concentration and fine motor skills needed for concert quality piano playing seemed at odds with her non-coordination.
I like a novel that addresses an issue and this one does, in the form of planning. Callie has her summer planned out. But plans don't go as she desires and she has to learn the hard way to submit to what God is doing. There is a good lesson there for all of us.
I do recommend this romance to readers who like some humor mixed in.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through I Read With Audra. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Callie was a character I had difficulty liking. She is uncoordinated and accident prone yet is an accomplished pianist. The concentration and fine motor skills needed for concert quality piano playing seemed at odds with her non-coordination.
I like a novel that addresses an issue and this one does, in the form of planning. Callie has her summer planned out. But plans don't go as she desires and she has to learn the hard way to submit to what God is doing. There is a good lesson there for all of us.
I do recommend this romance to readers who like some humor mixed in.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through I Read With Audra. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 25, 2021
Summer Plans - and Other Disasters is a fun, entertaining and great read. It is full of sweetness and laugh out loud humor. I never knew what was going to happen with Callie next. I just love the beautiful setting. I was amused from start to finish. It was not hard to have it read in one sitting.
Summer Plans - and Other Disasters is one book that should not be missed. I thought it was a fabulous debut for author Karin Beery. I can not wait to see where her imagination goes to next. I will be giving this one four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean and delightful romance. I am so happy that I had the chance to read it.
I received Summer Plans - and Other Disasters from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Summer Plans - and Other Disasters is one book that should not be missed. I thought it was a fabulous debut for author Karin Beery. I can not wait to see where her imagination goes to next. I will be giving this one four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean and delightful romance. I am so happy that I had the chance to read it.
I received Summer Plans - and Other Disasters from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this fun read. Callie is an elementary school teacher who spends the summer with her older brother. She thinks God's plan is for her to reunite with her old boyfriend, Kyle, but throw in her brother's best friend, Ryan, and her plan gets all twisted up. Beery's secondary characters and Callie's continual mishaps had me laughing out loud, while the romance was definitely sigh-worthy. I loved it!
September 10, 2018
Have you ever made plans that go awry? It made it easy for me to sympathize with lead character, Callie. Her plan is to spend the summer at the lighthouse, work for her brother and reconnect with her old boyfriend. But she learns that the plans she thought God had directed and the way her disastrous summer was unfolding were two different things. I enjoyed Karin's dialogue descriptions--she takes you there to experience the troubles Callie keeps getting into. A fun read for the close of the summer.
September 7, 2018
Get one last good beach story in before the summer ends! The romance is sweet. The action is hilarious. Ugh, how many times have I been in Callie's shoes?! You won't be able to put this one down and you'll be begging for the sequel. A great read all around!!
October 6, 2018
Summer Plans and Other Disasters had everything I enjoy in a good book. It was filled with relatable characters, the story progressed at a steady pace, and the characters grew in their faith.
We start the book from Callie’s perspective and learn that she has come back home to rekindle a relationship with a former boyfriend. Callie has her plans all laid out, and she sets out to check off the boxes on her list. Her plans are waylaid when she discovers that Ryan, her brother’s best friend, is also living in the lighthouse where she will be staying.
Callie does everything she can to follow her list but is continuously thrown off track by Ryan. She was sure God wanted her to come home and pick up her relationship with Kyle. But what if she was wrong? What if she wasn’t supposed to come home at all?
Callie fears that if she read God’s plan wrong about Kyle, then perhaps she was wrong about everything. Sometimes it’s hard to know what God’s plans are, and Callie struggles to find that balance of doing what she is supposed to be doing without putting her own plans in place of God’s.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters does not center just around Callie and her plans. We get to read from Ryan’s, Jack’s, and even Stacey’s perspectives. The budding relationship between Jack and Stacey was a nice surprise that I wasn’t expecting. Karin’s way of writing is smooth and descriptive. The scenes between Jack and Ryan were sometimes intense and completely in character for a big brother. He forced Ryan to face his flaws and Jack was always protecting his little sister.
In order to solve what Callie considers her failed summer plans, she will have to realize that her plans and God’s plans are not always the same. It is much the same with all of us at some point. There have been plenty of times when I thought that what I wanted was what was right for me. God had other ideas, and it took some time for me to trust that He knew best and that I should trust Him. Callie goes through this same ordeal before learning that not every detail of your life can be outlined on a sheet of paper. Sometimes you have to let go and have faith that He will catch you…or send someone to do it for Him.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters kept the tone light with Callie’s neverending escapades while still teaching a lesson. That is not an easy feat to accomplish, and I feel that Karin did a wonderful job. I will eagerly anticipate any future novels by Karin. I was grateful to be gifted with a copy of this book and given the opportunity to join the book tour. This in no way changed what I would have written about the book, regardless of how I received it. I hope you will pick up your own copy, and I pray it blesses you as much as it did me.
We start the book from Callie’s perspective and learn that she has come back home to rekindle a relationship with a former boyfriend. Callie has her plans all laid out, and she sets out to check off the boxes on her list. Her plans are waylaid when she discovers that Ryan, her brother’s best friend, is also living in the lighthouse where she will be staying.
Callie does everything she can to follow her list but is continuously thrown off track by Ryan. She was sure God wanted her to come home and pick up her relationship with Kyle. But what if she was wrong? What if she wasn’t supposed to come home at all?
Callie fears that if she read God’s plan wrong about Kyle, then perhaps she was wrong about everything. Sometimes it’s hard to know what God’s plans are, and Callie struggles to find that balance of doing what she is supposed to be doing without putting her own plans in place of God’s.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters does not center just around Callie and her plans. We get to read from Ryan’s, Jack’s, and even Stacey’s perspectives. The budding relationship between Jack and Stacey was a nice surprise that I wasn’t expecting. Karin’s way of writing is smooth and descriptive. The scenes between Jack and Ryan were sometimes intense and completely in character for a big brother. He forced Ryan to face his flaws and Jack was always protecting his little sister.
In order to solve what Callie considers her failed summer plans, she will have to realize that her plans and God’s plans are not always the same. It is much the same with all of us at some point. There have been plenty of times when I thought that what I wanted was what was right for me. God had other ideas, and it took some time for me to trust that He knew best and that I should trust Him. Callie goes through this same ordeal before learning that not every detail of your life can be outlined on a sheet of paper. Sometimes you have to let go and have faith that He will catch you…or send someone to do it for Him.
Summer Plans and Other Disasters kept the tone light with Callie’s neverending escapades while still teaching a lesson. That is not an easy feat to accomplish, and I feel that Karin did a wonderful job. I will eagerly anticipate any future novels by Karin. I was grateful to be gifted with a copy of this book and given the opportunity to join the book tour. This in no way changed what I would have written about the book, regardless of how I received it. I hope you will pick up your own copy, and I pray it blesses you as much as it did me.
August 20, 2021
This is my second time to go through this book. However this time I listened to the audio version. Oh my this made the story come alive. Now it was easier to picture the characters and catch the little bickering between brother and sister. I thought that Jasmine did a great job of making this story even better with her accomplished reading and voices that distinguished each character.
This was a fun book to read. It was lighthearted yet had great lessons to be learned through the characters. Callie has it all together or so she thinks. She has this big plan to come back and stay with her brother for the summer. During that time she has a scheme to reconnect with her ex- boyfriend. What could possibly go wrong with that plan? I think she forgot that God has a plan for her life and it may not be exactly what she is wanting. I have never seen such a klutz before, but Callie is really no help to her brother at his job.
I know that Callie is suppose to be the star in this story, but I absolutely adored Jack who is Callie's brother. He is smart and very protective of his sister. Their bickering was classic and I loved watching how their relationship showed how important family really is. Jack isn't all that enthusiastic about Callie's plan to win her ex-boyfriend back, but he stood by her and she went full steam ahead.
The book has a few other characters that play a key part in the story. In order for you to enjoy this story, I think you need to discover for yourself who these other characters are and how they will change Callie's life. The theme for me in this book is about listening to God and trusting Him. There is nothing wrong with making plans for your future, but if you don't take the time to listen to God, the wrong choice can spell disaster. Will Callie find what she is looking for?
I received a copy of this book from Read With Audra blogger program. I received the audio version from Celebrate Lit.The review is my own opinion.
This was a fun book to read. It was lighthearted yet had great lessons to be learned through the characters. Callie has it all together or so she thinks. She has this big plan to come back and stay with her brother for the summer. During that time she has a scheme to reconnect with her ex- boyfriend. What could possibly go wrong with that plan? I think she forgot that God has a plan for her life and it may not be exactly what she is wanting. I have never seen such a klutz before, but Callie is really no help to her brother at his job.
I know that Callie is suppose to be the star in this story, but I absolutely adored Jack who is Callie's brother. He is smart and very protective of his sister. Their bickering was classic and I loved watching how their relationship showed how important family really is. Jack isn't all that enthusiastic about Callie's plan to win her ex-boyfriend back, but he stood by her and she went full steam ahead.
The book has a few other characters that play a key part in the story. In order for you to enjoy this story, I think you need to discover for yourself who these other characters are and how they will change Callie's life. The theme for me in this book is about listening to God and trusting Him. There is nothing wrong with making plans for your future, but if you don't take the time to listen to God, the wrong choice can spell disaster. Will Callie find what she is looking for?
I received a copy of this book from Read With Audra blogger program. I received the audio version from Celebrate Lit.The review is my own opinion.
October 5, 2018
Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21 ESV
Summer Plans and Other Disasters is a light-hearted romance that contains an important lesson. The story revolves around Callie Stevens a school teacher who believes she has heard from God about what she should do over summer vacation and has planned accordingly. The only problem is that her plans seem to fall apart at every turn and Callie begins to doubt if she heard God correctly. Perhaps she just took the ball and ran with her own interpretation of what she heard.
Other characters include Callie’s older brother Jack, his best friend Ryan, Callie’s old flame Kyle, and her new friend Stacey. The narrative is related through several points of view and it is evident the characters are not always on the same page. Intelligent, accomplished Callie who does everything accordingly to plan is a disaster in the making which definitely adds quite a bit of humor to the tale. Jack is the perfect big brother, level-headed and competent except when he’s around a certain young lady. Ryan is a perfect leading man but then Kyle is not too bad either. The problem is will Callie figure out which one meets God’s plan for her or will she carry through with her own plans?
I mostly enjoyed this book even though at times Callie could be just a bit exasperating. Her education and accomplishments were in direct contrast to some of her quirky actions. Nevertheless, Summer Plans and Other Disasters is a great novel for those times when one wants to read something light and humorous. I would be open to reading a sequel, especially if it is about Jack.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Audra Jennings PR. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
October 24, 2018
Karin Beery's debut novel Summer Plans and Other Disasters is an entertaining read that highlights the truth that God's Plans may not be your plans. The book shows the confusion and disappointment that may come before you figure this out—but also what joy might come when His plans—for your good as always—are revealed.
Readers will chuckle throughout the book, as author Beery shows her flair for comedy during multiple scenes that depict the mishaps that occur to the accident-prone heroine, Callie, an elementary music teacher who only seems to be coordinated when she plays piano. Smiles will also appear often when reading the warm-hearted teasing that goes on between Callie and her older brother Jack.
Author Beery displays her writing skills in both dialogue and narrative, as she does a fantastic job with the use of both in order to get the reader to really "feel for" a certain character at a particular moment. There are a lot of relationships touched on in this novel, but Beery's engaging writing style keeps the reader interested in all of them, and hopeful maybe a sequel or two is in the works to tell the background of these pairs. There's Callie and her brother Jack; Callie and her old flame Kyle; Callie and her brother's best friend Ryan; Jack and Ryan; Callie and her bestie Mae; and Jack and a friend from church, Stacey.
The setting of this novel is in Traverse City, Michigan, at a lighthouse where Jack and Ryan live. Beery's descriptions of this area easily paint a picture of place for the reader, making you feel as if you're sitting right there on the shore by the cool water of Lake Michigan. I recommend you pick up a copy of Summer Plans and Other Disasters, as that's what I've told my family and friends to do, and I look forward to reading more novels by Karin Beery.
Readers will chuckle throughout the book, as author Beery shows her flair for comedy during multiple scenes that depict the mishaps that occur to the accident-prone heroine, Callie, an elementary music teacher who only seems to be coordinated when she plays piano. Smiles will also appear often when reading the warm-hearted teasing that goes on between Callie and her older brother Jack.
Author Beery displays her writing skills in both dialogue and narrative, as she does a fantastic job with the use of both in order to get the reader to really "feel for" a certain character at a particular moment. There are a lot of relationships touched on in this novel, but Beery's engaging writing style keeps the reader interested in all of them, and hopeful maybe a sequel or two is in the works to tell the background of these pairs. There's Callie and her brother Jack; Callie and her old flame Kyle; Callie and her brother's best friend Ryan; Jack and Ryan; Callie and her bestie Mae; and Jack and a friend from church, Stacey.
The setting of this novel is in Traverse City, Michigan, at a lighthouse where Jack and Ryan live. Beery's descriptions of this area easily paint a picture of place for the reader, making you feel as if you're sitting right there on the shore by the cool water of Lake Michigan. I recommend you pick up a copy of Summer Plans and Other Disasters, as that's what I've told my family and friends to do, and I look forward to reading more novels by Karin Beery.
October 23, 2018
Summer Plans and Other Disasters sounded like the perfect book when I read the excerpt and I wasn't disappointed.
Callie is a music teacher, major klutz, and plans her life in advance. She decided to spend the summer with her brother Jack, and his best-friend and roommate Ryan, as a part-time helper to make a little extra spending money, while trying to get back together with her ex, Kyle. At least, that was the plan...she thought.
Needless to say, there's a lot of testosterone which leads to drama--especially in the dating department. To top things off, her best friend Mae is pregnant again and offering her lots of words of wisdom and dating advice.
What's a girl who is a walking disaster and wants God's will for her life to do?
The characters were very realistic and down-to-earth. I enjoyed the fact that Callie is a teacher, klutz, and plans her life too. (I somehow think that we would get along great in real life because we are so similar--at least in those respects.) I also appreciate her musical talents because that's something I only dream about.
I loved how Callie ran to God when she had no place else to turn. Isn't that how it usually works? We all plan our lives according to the way we think they should be orchestrated and when things start tumbling downhill we finally decide to look up? (Or am I the only one?)
This may be Karin Beery's first published novel, but I for one, cannot wait to see what else she has planned for books in the future. If you enjoy contemporary romance with a sweet message, this is the book for you!
I received this book for free from the publisher for my honest opinion and a review.
Callie is a music teacher, major klutz, and plans her life in advance. She decided to spend the summer with her brother Jack, and his best-friend and roommate Ryan, as a part-time helper to make a little extra spending money, while trying to get back together with her ex, Kyle. At least, that was the plan...she thought.
Needless to say, there's a lot of testosterone which leads to drama--especially in the dating department. To top things off, her best friend Mae is pregnant again and offering her lots of words of wisdom and dating advice.
What's a girl who is a walking disaster and wants God's will for her life to do?
The characters were very realistic and down-to-earth. I enjoyed the fact that Callie is a teacher, klutz, and plans her life too. (I somehow think that we would get along great in real life because we are so similar--at least in those respects.) I also appreciate her musical talents because that's something I only dream about.
I loved how Callie ran to God when she had no place else to turn. Isn't that how it usually works? We all plan our lives according to the way we think they should be orchestrated and when things start tumbling downhill we finally decide to look up? (Or am I the only one?)
This may be Karin Beery's first published novel, but I for one, cannot wait to see what else she has planned for books in the future. If you enjoy contemporary romance with a sweet message, this is the book for you!
I received this book for free from the publisher for my honest opinion and a review.
October 5, 2018
Summer Plans and Other Disasters tells the story of Callie, who moves home for the summer to live with her brother and pursue her ex-boyfriend Kyle. She has her summer neatly planned out. But things happen to make her re-think her plans, including meeting her long ago crush, Ryan, again.
This is such a fun, sweet read! Callie is a very likeable and real character. She is a music teacher and a bit of a klutz. Her attempts to help her brother Jack as he works to maintain the lighthouse where they live and the surrounding park almost always end in disaster.
I loved the other characters too -- Callie's brother Jack, his best friend Ryan, Stacey (who has a crush on Jack), and Callie's friend Mae.
The atmosphere of the book was especially nice. I felt like I spent a few hours enjoying life in a lighthouse in small town Michigan.
I also really liked the Christian message of this novel. Callie is a planner but she learns to let go and trust God. The author, Karin Beery, handled the message deftly and with a light touch. The strength of the characters and the engaging plot were always at the heart of this novel.
This story is told from several characters' perspectives, and that took a few chapters to get used to. But I soon was interested in what would happen next and I enjoyed getting to know the different characters via alternating perspectives.
I recommend Summer Plans and Other Disasters for fans of Christian fiction, women's fiction, and contemporary romance. It would make a fun weekend read or vacation book.
This is such a fun, sweet read! Callie is a very likeable and real character. She is a music teacher and a bit of a klutz. Her attempts to help her brother Jack as he works to maintain the lighthouse where they live and the surrounding park almost always end in disaster.
I loved the other characters too -- Callie's brother Jack, his best friend Ryan, Stacey (who has a crush on Jack), and Callie's friend Mae.
The atmosphere of the book was especially nice. I felt like I spent a few hours enjoying life in a lighthouse in small town Michigan.
I also really liked the Christian message of this novel. Callie is a planner but she learns to let go and trust God. The author, Karin Beery, handled the message deftly and with a light touch. The strength of the characters and the engaging plot were always at the heart of this novel.
This story is told from several characters' perspectives, and that took a few chapters to get used to. But I soon was interested in what would happen next and I enjoyed getting to know the different characters via alternating perspectives.
I recommend Summer Plans and Other Disasters for fans of Christian fiction, women's fiction, and contemporary romance. It would make a fun weekend read or vacation book.
October 24, 2018
I really enjoyed this cute story about a girl who likes to have a plan for everything and doesn't quite know what to do when the plan changes. I liked Callie a lot but also felt she was very naive. Who would think an ex-boyfriend would wait around for three years for you just because he said he'd always be there? I got a little frustrated with some of her choices but she also made me smile with some of the clumsy situations she got herself into. I also really liked the rest of the characters and especially liked that none of them were perfect. The banter was great! Jack had a great attitude in that he tried to never worry since the Bible told him not to. It was also pretty amusing how Stacey confused and delighted him. I also liked Ryan even though he was frustrating me with his procrastination and cowardice. There were a lot of cute moments and I loved that we got each of the foursome's viewpoints so we knew what they thought of each other. I liked Stacey's attitude the most out of the bunch, that she was trusting God to tell her what to do regarding dating and relationships. While their Christian faith was mentioned at times in the story, it wasn't preachy. I would highly recommend this story especially for teens and young adults but anyone who likes romance would enjoy it!
I received a copy of this book through Read with Audra. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book through Read with Audra. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2018
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Summer Plans is a really fun and enjoyable book to read. I enjoyed the humor throughout the book, starting at the very beginning with Callie moving in with her brother, and finding out that her childhood crush was living with her brother as well. She is suppose to be at her brothers to find God’s will for her life, but even though she thought ex-boyfriend Kyle was God’s will, what was Ryan doing here? This was a big puzzle to Callie!
Most of the characters in this book are Christians, and their faith is a big part of their everyday life. And just like eveyone, their life took some twists and turns that challenges their faith, and these characters are anything but perfect. But I do appreciate the way the author weaves the Christian life so vividly in the lives of her characters. For anyone looking for a good Christian Romance, this is one you will want to read!
I received this book from Tours with Audrey to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
Summer Plans is a really fun and enjoyable book to read. I enjoyed the humor throughout the book, starting at the very beginning with Callie moving in with her brother, and finding out that her childhood crush was living with her brother as well. She is suppose to be at her brothers to find God’s will for her life, but even though she thought ex-boyfriend Kyle was God’s will, what was Ryan doing here? This was a big puzzle to Callie!
Most of the characters in this book are Christians, and their faith is a big part of their everyday life. And just like eveyone, their life took some twists and turns that challenges their faith, and these characters are anything but perfect. But I do appreciate the way the author weaves the Christian life so vividly in the lives of her characters. For anyone looking for a good Christian Romance, this is one you will want to read!
I received this book from Tours with Audrey to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.
October 1, 2018
I was really excited about this release from Karin Beery and was not disappointed. It took me a little bit of time getting used to the many POVs, but once I got used to it, I had a lot of fun being behind the scenes in all the stories. I especially liked Jack's (Callie's older brother and Ryan's best friend) reluctant attraction to Stacy.
I loved Ryan Martin, Callie's romantic interest (at least, he is once she stops chasing Kyle). He's the sweetest hero, and I enjoyed the way he and Jack go back and forth about Callie.
"Summer Plans and Other Disasters" has lots of beautiful Northern Michigan settings, cautionary tales about what happens when you try to plan your life out to the smallest detail, the rescue of a damsel-in-distress, a swoon-worthy hero and subsequent kissing scene, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. In short: it's a book you shouldn't miss!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and the Read with Audra blog tour program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I loved Ryan Martin, Callie's romantic interest (at least, he is once she stops chasing Kyle). He's the sweetest hero, and I enjoyed the way he and Jack go back and forth about Callie.
"Summer Plans and Other Disasters" has lots of beautiful Northern Michigan settings, cautionary tales about what happens when you try to plan your life out to the smallest detail, the rescue of a damsel-in-distress, a swoon-worthy hero and subsequent kissing scene, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. In short: it's a book you shouldn't miss!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and the Read with Audra blog tour program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
October 23, 2018
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Read with Audra in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
Summer Plans And Other Disasters by Karin Beery was a book that I judge because of the cover and once I started reading this book I fell in love. This is one of those times that I did judge a book by the cover and I was proved wrong because the book was amazing. I am so glad that this book reminded me that you shouldn’t judge a book by the cover. I am pretty sure that this is the first book that I have read by this author and I am going to read other books by her in the future because I loved this book. This book was an easy read for me and one that I was pretty sure I knew what was going to happen but that didn’t bother me in the least. I was able to read this book in about a day and a half so if you are looking for a sweet book to read this month I would recommend this book to you especially if you love chick lit books.
Summer Plans And Other Disasters by Karin Beery was a book that I judge because of the cover and once I started reading this book I fell in love. This is one of those times that I did judge a book by the cover and I was proved wrong because the book was amazing. I am so glad that this book reminded me that you shouldn’t judge a book by the cover. I am pretty sure that this is the first book that I have read by this author and I am going to read other books by her in the future because I loved this book. This book was an easy read for me and one that I was pretty sure I knew what was going to happen but that didn’t bother me in the least. I was able to read this book in about a day and a half so if you are looking for a sweet book to read this month I would recommend this book to you especially if you love chick lit books.
October 4, 2018
This is a very sweet read, a nice clean romance. Hmmmm who shall she choose Kyle or Ryan? Ryan the long time friend who is secretly in love with her or Kyle the ex-boyfriend???
I loved the setting of this story - Lake Michigan, the shore, lighthouses (Old Mission Light in Traverse City). I love stories that include lighthouses! I just creates such ambiance.
This book includes one of my favorite things - changing POV! so you get to see what all the major characters are thinking - Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey.
A nice sweet, easy reading book. This was a bit slow in spots for me but still a great read! Especially for the summer (or end of) you can see I am not giving up summer so easily!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Read with Audra ~ Thank You!
I loved the setting of this story - Lake Michigan, the shore, lighthouses (Old Mission Light in Traverse City). I love stories that include lighthouses! I just creates such ambiance.
This book includes one of my favorite things - changing POV! so you get to see what all the major characters are thinking - Ryan, Callie, Jack, and Stacey.
A nice sweet, easy reading book. This was a bit slow in spots for me but still a great read! Especially for the summer (or end of) you can see I am not giving up summer so easily!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Read with Audra ~ Thank You!
October 5, 2018
We all have at least one what if question and this whimsical story is all about that big what if. Callie looks back and realizes that she may have let "the one" get away because she was scared of commitment . As she looks back on it, she decides it's time to make it right and heads home. .You'll have to read the book to see what that story goes.
This book is well written, fun, emotional, and a true pleasure. It was my first read by Beery, but she quickly made my favorite authors list. The characters are well developed, easy to relate to, and unique. I love how the characters all work together to build the story. There's no extra fluff added in. It's all good hearted, emotion pulling, have you on the edge of your seat reading! I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received this book for review purposes only. All opinions remain my own.
This book is well written, fun, emotional, and a true pleasure. It was my first read by Beery, but she quickly made my favorite authors list. The characters are well developed, easy to relate to, and unique. I love how the characters all work together to build the story. There's no extra fluff added in. It's all good hearted, emotion pulling, have you on the edge of your seat reading! I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received this book for review purposes only. All opinions remain my own.
October 10, 2018
Summer plans and other disasters
Callie tries so hard to help her brother when coming to stay for the summer. She seems a little accident prone. She has her own plan but God has a different plan. She wanted to see about her old boyfriend Kyle but does that work out?
Her brother is so patient and caring. I really loved his character. Everyone would love a brother like him.
This was an enjoyable and fun book to read. The author brought the characters to life. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an complementary copy of the book for a review on this book tour. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
Callie tries so hard to help her brother when coming to stay for the summer. She seems a little accident prone. She has her own plan but God has a different plan. She wanted to see about her old boyfriend Kyle but does that work out?
Her brother is so patient and caring. I really loved his character. Everyone would love a brother like him.
This was an enjoyable and fun book to read. The author brought the characters to life. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an complementary copy of the book for a review on this book tour. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
October 24, 2018
I'm not sure when I've gotten a bigger kick out of a Christian romance novel. Five easy stars!
I really enjoyed the heroine Callie's stubborn insistence on following her plan (even when it became obvious it would lead to disaster), her klutziness, and the way she kept bumping into God. The book is cute, serious, humorous, deep, and totally entertaining. Poor Ryan thought he had God's plan figured out, but he wasn't so sure Callie would let God win.
Way to go, Karin Beery. Let's have another one just like this one, okay?
Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are, as usual, my own.
I really enjoyed the heroine Callie's stubborn insistence on following her plan (even when it became obvious it would lead to disaster), her klutziness, and the way she kept bumping into God. The book is cute, serious, humorous, deep, and totally entertaining. Poor Ryan thought he had God's plan figured out, but he wasn't so sure Callie would let God win.
Way to go, Karin Beery. Let's have another one just like this one, okay?
Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are, as usual, my own.
October 14, 2018
This was such a fun and cute romance. Callie is very clutzy but lovable. She tries but can hurt herself. Her brother and his best friend, Ryan, are both very protective of Callie. I loved how Callie worked through her problems with faith . This was the first book I read by Karin Beery and I hope to read many more. I received a copy of this book from Read with Audra blogger program for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
October 2, 2018
This story was well written and easy to read. I feel like the author did a great job describing the events and adding humor without being silly. I liked that the characters were church going and just generally good people. The brother sister dynamics were spot on! This is was a very enjoyable book to read.
*I received a copy for review purposes, all opinions are my own.
*I received a copy for review purposes, all opinions are my own.
October 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. If I go looking for other books by an author you know I liked it. Contemporary fiction, funny and sweet.
August 25, 2021
Callie Stephens had big plans for the summer. Too bad that none of them are working out. Will she insist on forging ahead or will she learn to adapt and trust God?
This book is about how to trust God when nothing seems to be working out. Callie hits several roadblocks. Some of them are definitely of her own making as she tends to turn simple projects into dilemmas. There were many laugh out loud moments in this book. But there were also some moments when you could not help but want to cry for the character. If you have ever felt like you have run up against a brick wall trying to make something happen, you will be able to relate to this book.
I enjoyed the main characters in this book. The love story is sweet. But it also has a great supporting cast. I love how protective Callie's older brother was of her and how he set up some guidelines on her behalf. I think single women need someone to act on behalf of them. The best friend was also funny.
I actually switched between reading and listening to this book. I really liked the fact I was able to easily transfer between one and the other. I was provided an audio copy through a book tour, and I used Kindle Unlimited to borrow the digital version.
Jasmine Zhwalen does a nice job with the narration. Her voice is soothing, but it did not make me fall asleep either. Her transition between male and female characters did not feel stilted or forced. I listened to the book at 1.25 speed. The narrator still was easy to follow at a faster speed, but I decided that I did not enjoy it quite as much at that speed. Again being able to both read and listen is such a nice option.
I have really enjoy reading Karin's books. I wanted to write a review. All opinions are my own.
This book is about how to trust God when nothing seems to be working out. Callie hits several roadblocks. Some of them are definitely of her own making as she tends to turn simple projects into dilemmas. There were many laugh out loud moments in this book. But there were also some moments when you could not help but want to cry for the character. If you have ever felt like you have run up against a brick wall trying to make something happen, you will be able to relate to this book.
I enjoyed the main characters in this book. The love story is sweet. But it also has a great supporting cast. I love how protective Callie's older brother was of her and how he set up some guidelines on her behalf. I think single women need someone to act on behalf of them. The best friend was also funny.
I actually switched between reading and listening to this book. I really liked the fact I was able to easily transfer between one and the other. I was provided an audio copy through a book tour, and I used Kindle Unlimited to borrow the digital version.
Jasmine Zhwalen does a nice job with the narration. Her voice is soothing, but it did not make me fall asleep either. Her transition between male and female characters did not feel stilted or forced. I listened to the book at 1.25 speed. The narrator still was easy to follow at a faster speed, but I decided that I did not enjoy it quite as much at that speed. Again being able to both read and listen is such a nice option.
I have really enjoy reading Karin's books. I wanted to write a review. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2019
(3.5 stars) – A fun YA book about being open to God’s will
Callie's disaster prone-ness is funny, maybe a little overmuch for believability, but funny without crossing over into slapstick.
She has an obsession with planning that verges on superstitious, and has yet to learn that the older we get the more we need to develop flexibility even if we hate it
I really liked the message of God first, people second – we can love people more that way. I especially liked the message of learning to accept the uncertainty of waiting on God's will.
There were a few issues for me regarding the plot:
***SPOILERS***
-I think it would have had a better (and more believable) pace if the date with Kyle had happened sooner than it did, & he had revealed his interest in Rachel in a more forthcoming way. Most people would have recognized the room for misunderstanding there & headed it off so it ended up looking too contrived & hurt the credibility of the plot
-Callie’s decision to leave her phone behind makes no sense – she would have just shut it down but still carry it with her to have access for potential emergencies
***END SPOILERS***
It’s an enjoyable story, overall, and provided an entertaining evening’s read.
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses
Callie's disaster prone-ness is funny, maybe a little overmuch for believability, but funny without crossing over into slapstick.
She has an obsession with planning that verges on superstitious, and has yet to learn that the older we get the more we need to develop flexibility even if we hate it
I really liked the message of God first, people second – we can love people more that way. I especially liked the message of learning to accept the uncertainty of waiting on God's will.
There were a few issues for me regarding the plot:
***SPOILERS***
-I think it would have had a better (and more believable) pace if the date with Kyle had happened sooner than it did, & he had revealed his interest in Rachel in a more forthcoming way. Most people would have recognized the room for misunderstanding there & headed it off so it ended up looking too contrived & hurt the credibility of the plot
-Callie’s decision to leave her phone behind makes no sense – she would have just shut it down but still carry it with her to have access for potential emergencies
***END SPOILERS***
It’s an enjoyable story, overall, and provided an entertaining evening’s read.
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses
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