Missing the Gift

by Traci Wooden-Carlisle

Her life depends on her ability to hide her identity. Loving him may cost her everything. Nine years ago she was left for dead and Maddison Bayer gained a life. It wasn’t her real life, but it was more than she’d had before. Then there was Ryan Gramble. A man that made Maddison speechless. Ryan has spent years running from one challenge to another. He’s come to Chandler County to face and deal with his previous traumas. He has used his love for horses as a way to treat himself and others. Still, he isn’t ready for Dr. Maddison Bayer, with that beautiful face and those disturbingly familiar eyes…that lie. Their attraction is instantaneous, but neither is willing to pursue what they believe is an ill-fated relationship. That is, until danger comes perilously close to Maddison and she is forced to seek refuge amongst the lights and glitter of Chandler County at Christmas. Will they give in and accept the gift they’ve been denying themselves? This inspirational interracial romantic suspense is part of the Chandler County multi-author branded series.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 29, 2018

About the author

Traci Wooden-Carlisle began writing poetry and short stories as soon as she was able to form words on paper. She used that as a way of creating worlds, as well as, to communicate with God. A native of Los Angeles, California, she grew up attending United Methodist Church under the leadership of a pastor whose heart was for youth. Once she finished college she found herself at a loss. She felt caught in the transition between childhood and adulthood. She surrounded herself with saints and volunteered her services as a graphic artist. Through the early-morning prayer, all night Friday prayer and 3-day shut-ins she started on her journey toward her most desired gift, an intimate relationship with God.
Today, Mrs. Wooden-Carlisle lives in San Diego with her husband, Mr. Carlisle. She teaches fitness classes, runs a jewelry and craft business, and is currently writing the next installment in her Christian-fiction series.

Reviews

[Duezette · Rating 5 out of 5]

You never know what you are given when you are handed a gift 🎁.
The author does a wonderful job weaving an unforgettable tale.
This book is a Christmas read but not your gingerbread and candy cane kind of inspirational read.
Mystery,suspense, death and a gift from God?
Once again the story takes place in Chandler County and the focus of the book starts with a wedding but you know as well as I do that there is always something going on when you are invited to a wedding. Friends and family gather and new friendships are formed....or maybe an old friendship in disguise. You have to read the book to know what I mean.

Thank you Traci Wooden- Carlisle for inviting me to Chandler County.

[Tammy Cordery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It has a lot of suspense. It keeps you guessing until the end. I love that it has an happy ending and I will not tell you any more.

[Tammy Chaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Really good read! I have read all three books of the Chandler Series and I was thoroughly pleased! I do agree that each book can be read as stand alone they can greatly be appreciated when read together! I love this story of Maddison who was strong even in her weakness because she persevered through tragedy!

[Stefanie Nici · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational Romance

A story about over coming obstacles, trauma, keeping the faith and finding love. I enjoyed reading about Maddison and Ryan. And with a little suspense added to the mix, I kept
turning those pages.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a bookclub read for me. I most likely would not have chosen this book voluntarily, as I am not into romance novels; however, this novel wasn't too "romantic" for me and I enjoyed the story.

This is a story of and interracial Christian romance, which I wasn't too sure of at first thought, but the story played out well to incorporate God and romance in an appropriate manner, based on Christian morals. Maddison Baer was left for dead by her ex-husband, who was a volatile, narcissistic man, who believed in beating women into submission for their own good. He didn't just try to beat his wife, he wanted to kill her. Maddison's life is then a series of ups and downs as she navigates life while her ex-husband is behind bars, and praying to God that she doesn't get found again by him when he and if he makes parole. While celebrating her best friend's wedding, she meets Ryan, who she hesitantly befriends. Ryan is the man of the hour, coming to her rescue as drama escalates in her life. Maddison isn't too willing to be won over by Ryan, although her life circumstances seems to be pointing the two of them together. Through it all, Maddison has a choice to make while trying to stay safe and alive. What will she choose?

Although the overall story was good, unfortunately, the writing was not. The editing was very poor in this book, and it distracted me from engaging in this story completely. There are spelling errors galore, grammatical missteps, poor sentence structure, spacing issues, past/present tense errors... I could go on for days. I powered through this book because it was a bookclub read, but had it not been, I most likely would not have finished the book. The plot twists in the book (2) were weak and poorly developed, and the climax of the suspense was very anti-climatic. I also didn't understand how the title of the book tied into the overall story. The book just left me with tons of questions, which aggravated me as a reader. It's unfortunate, but I don't think the author did a good job in tying up all the loose ends in the story to make it come together in a cohesive manner.

I did appreciate the Christian romance theme in the book. The religion that was presented in the book was done in a very tasteful way and didn't hit you over the head with God in a fire-brimstone type of preaching message. The domestic abuse issues in this book was covered well, and it shared the woman's perspective of coming out of that terrorist type of behavior and how the abuse mentally takes a toll on the woman who is experiencing abuse. The story of Ryan and Maddison was presented in a third person narrative and made me feel as if I was observing Ryan and Maddison's life. I do wish that the narrative was a little more engaging instead of observing, but the story was decent overall. I would have to rate this a 2.75 (rounded up to a 3) because of the poor writing and editing.

[Traci Wooden-Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your average Christmas book. It doesn't start out with the warmth and cheer of the holidays, but the ending and the start of a new life. Maddison Baer is beautiful, intelligent, sassy, bold, superficial and a flirt. Maddison Baer is also generous, meek, loves God, and the only friend she has allowed herself to have. Will the real Maddison come forward? Ryan Gramble, who has been interested in her since she walked in on him in nothing but a towel, would like to know.
During Zach and Shauna's wedding, Maddison and Ryan are attracted to one another, but neither see how they will have a successful relationship so they part with many words unsaid and try to stay away from one another until their pasts reunite them.
Secrets are revealed, feelings come to the forefront and they come face-to-face with an evil that will do anything to end her life.
The emotions between Ryan and Maddison touched my heart. Their romance is one of my favorites and the Christmas Eve they shared was worth celebrating.

[**Elle**Bee**Double U** · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having read the previous books in the Chandler County series, I've come to the conclusion that these books really do take quite a bit to actually get into because they seem really slow starting out.
I think what made me give a lower rating on this story I felt as if all the problems leading up to the climax seemed a bit anti-climatic.
I'm also a bit curious about how the title is suppose to fit into the story. Usually for most books the title in some way is easy for readers to see why an author chose it, but with this one I guess it just kind of flew over my head.
What I did like about this was how the author had to show both Ryan and Maddison overcoming their own issues and PTSD to discover their own piece of happiness.

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

The prologue of this wonderfully crafted novel starts off dark when an officer is dispatched to a domestic disturbance. The story jumps ahead 9 years and we are introduced to Maddison, the girl with a secret past and Ryan who has a troubled past of his own. The undeniable chemistry leads to a suspenseful romance, filled with twists and turns, patience and understanding. What started out dark ended up glorious with the underlying theme of God's love, grace and mercy. This is the first book I read in this series- I loved the characters of Reina and Dr Nathan so much that I plan on reading the rest in the series.

[Cherie l brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accidentally read out of order. Read book 1, was disappointed, accidentally skipped Book 2, but found Book 3 interesting enough to go back and catch #2. The novel deals with domestic abuse and the consequences of this horrible act. But it also addresses the trauma and the hope that God can bring after going thru domestic abuse. Dr. Nathan is still a mysterious man; but he’s effective. You will only get important clues as the author slowly hooks you in. Likable characters, and you want to see triumph in their lives along with justice for the evil that has been invoked.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a perfect quarantine read! It's nice to see faith incorporated gently and seamlessly into a book that has romance and a bit of a thriller in it, too. I've never read the other books in the series (and it works fine as a standalone) but it's fairly easy to see which couples were featured in the earlier books and I might just have to read one of them. The couple that appears headed for #4 in the series looks promising, too.

[CRYS · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Loving Embrace of God's Grace

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this was a Christian romance novel.
Ryan showed Maddison/Aurelia that love is more than mushy feelings and words. Ryan showed Maddison God's agape love. I loved the intertwining of scripture throughout the book. I enjoyed the theme of love being patient as well as the mystery of what was going to happen next. This was good clean romantic joy.

[HiDesert Granny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the perceptiveness and discernment of this book as it delved into how faith can transform our lives. We follow the two alluring main characters as they traverse life’s challenges. Intelligently written with insightful (and sometimes quirky) dialogue and penetrating emotions delivers a transcendent tale not to be missed. As noted in other reviews, this story has romance, intrigue, suspense, faith and so much more. Kudos to Traci Wooden-Carlisle!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read books 1 and 2 in this series but will be doing it because I just loved this one so much. In the very beginning I wanted to cry . But the moment that Maddison and Ryan there is something between them. People aren't quite how they seem to be, feelings are hidden, danger will become known and feelings finally come out.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not your every day Christmas story. But, it is a really fantastic read. It has everything you need. Suspense, love, romance, faith, unfortunately a little domestic violence. I was really able to identify with this story somewhat. Just not to the level of violence. I will definitely recommend this story to all my friends.

[Melanie Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story

This was a great story. I really enjoyed it. Unfortunately, about halfway through the grammar and punctuation errors became a little bit distracting. It took away from the story. Other than that it was a great story.

[Sydney Hopke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!

What a great story! There's suspense, friendship, romance and faith. The faith of the characters ties everything together. You get to know the characters which I love. Its a definite must read!

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-crafted story with a strong message of faith and hope. Although it starts off a bit dark it blossoms into a story of strength, perseverance, and God's grace. A great read and a wonderful series.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victorious inside and out

This book kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how it would all work out. I love the emphasis on how important it is to use our spiritual gifts that God has given us. This is very good!

[Kayshon Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story of GOD'S LOVE POWER PROVISION and PROTECTION!!!

It was great, if a little suspenseful. I loved that GOD was incorporated into the lives of these characters as HE should be in all of our lives. Thanks for writing this poignant story!!!

[Erin McKain · Rating 5 out of 5]

A True Gift of a read!

Madison has a past she has hidden. Ryan is ex military and ex cop. They meet each other at a friends wedding. Twist and turns make it a romantic mystery with a love of God intermixed in. Love this story! Wonderful read!

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missing the Gift

I enjoyed spending my time with these characters as they found themselves and overcame the obstacles thrown at them

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great exciting story that keeps you on edge. Two people hiding secrets that can make or break them and having to deal with danger is stressful but will it bring them together?

[Tressa Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I read the whole series it was amazing I loved it definitely will be reading the rest of this authors books

[Mildred Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just Awesome

Maddison & Ryan’s story blew me away! I love the romance but I tell you!!!! The suspense of it kept me on the edge of my seat! This is a must read!

[Pauline Benjamin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was the best in the series. So much better story character development and felt more personal.

[Sam’sBookishLifestyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Missing the Gift was such a refreshing read. Traci-Wooden Carlisle was brave enough to cover the topic of domestic abuse while weaving it with themes of faith, second-chances, and love. I really respected that because it is such a serious issue in our world today. And I find a story flows more smoothly when interracial relationships aren’t made to seem abnormal or are portrayed as the main conflict of the story(unless of course it’s in a time period where that’s a key detail).

Maddison is a well-developed character who survived an almost fatal attack of domestic abuse, and as a result of that, had to undergo an identity change. I liked how the heroine was still presented as a successful and capable woman, despite what she went through.
Dr.Maddison Baer is a self-sufficient agricultural woman who lives alone in Chicago. When she visits Chandler County for her best-friend Shauna’s wedding, she meets Ryan. He is the first man to have captured her attention almost 10 years after the tragedy she endured.

I won’t spoil, anything else ;)

Butttttt I do have to say that Ryan was the sweetest, most patient pursuer. He was attentive to what made Maddison uncomfortable and what made her smile.
The romance was clean and sweet, but it didn’t take away from the suspenseful plot.
I’m not a usual subscriber to suspense novels, but this book has opened my eye to this genre. So, I will most definitely be looking out for more of Traci’s Wooden-Carlisle’s standalones and series.

*I received an eBook copy of this book for an honest review*

[Marshalee Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how the author Traci Carlisle, draw you into Madison’s story and made you understand and see the level of trauma that persons who suffer abuse struggles with. What Madison suffered was more than what I think I could have endured and not fall apart too. Many times because of bad upbringing we sometimes make decisions that take us on a path that makes us or breaks us.

The part of this book that touched me most was watching Ryan pursuing Madison with such patience, gentleness and understanding. His own post-war experience helped him understood some of what she was going through and made him perfect to help her heal and step away from the shell of a woman she had become because of her abuse and the fear it had inflicted upon her. I love how the romance part between them wasn’t rush, it made you feel like you were part of the story and feeling the emotions as they did. This is a wonderful story that I would recommend to those who have suffered abuse and even those who have felt rejection. Madison and Ryan’s romance is a wonderful story to see grow.

For new readers though, I recommend first reading the previous books in the series to fully get to know all the characters, otherwise, in some place, you might get a little lost, but not too much to defer the story.

[Cindy Huff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story a lot. The plot was intriguing. But the more narrative style left me feeling like I was viewing Maddison and Ryan's life rather than being a part of it. There were typos and a few spots I had to reread because it was unclear what was going on. An extra set of editing eyes would have caught those. But overall it was an interesting read, Although I haven't read the others in the series I didn't fell I was missing anything. It kept me engaged. Love the interracial angle and the faith elements were strong without being preachy. And showing PTSD as more than a soldier affliction made me cheer. Her research added so much to the story.

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inspirational!

This was a testimonial showing God's grace, mercy and love! It was totally unexpected, but I needed the reminder of how God can work for those who allow their faith in God's word to keep them anchored!