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Copper Island #3

Across the Bridge

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Fiction from the Ragged Edge of Faith When Marcella Seppa meets her new tenant, widower Drew Smith, a spark ignites, but she won’t consider dating him. She doesn’t want his son, AJ, to experience the hurt she felt when her dad remarried shortly after her mom died. Her faith unraveled, and she threw herself into exercise and gardening instead of forming trusting relationships. When Drew finds out he may not be AJ’s biological father, his first instinct is to leave Copper Island, but he wants to find out the truth. He seeks out Marcella’s support. Is it possible their friendship could become more? But how would that affect AJ? Could love help make peace with the past? Love weaves its way through the messiness of life on Copper Island. Across the Bridge is part of the Copper Island series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. Across the Bridge will make you laugh and cry. Deep, meaningful themes are woven into a fast-paced storyline. After Marcella Seppa lost her mother when she was fifteen years old, her father quickly remarried, and her stepmother pushed too hard to foster a relationship with Marcella. Well-meaning people used Christian clichés in an attempt to comfort her, but it resulted in Marcella having a faith crisis. Is love worth the risk of loss, and how can you hold on to faith when questioning the idea of a puppet-master God? Drew Smith moves to the small town of Quincy so that his in-laws can help raise his son, and he plugs into a local church where the leader of a boys group — and his deceased wife's high school boyfriend — looks strikingly like his son. Drew fears losing part of his son's heart to a man who even he admires for his height, charm, and cool job as a State Trooper. What does it mean to be a father, and what is the balance between protecting and preparing your child? Across the Bridge also contains a theme dealing with ALS, a terminal disease that requires a team of caregivers. Readers who've met Grandma Lou in Snow Country will want to be with her again.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2018

65 people are currently reading
27 people want to read

About the author

Kristin Neva

6 books24 followers

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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah Grace Grzy.
634 reviews935 followers
April 3, 2019
I really enjoyed this sweet, small-town story! I quickly fell in love with Drew, Marcella, and AJ. Neva writes with a simplicity and realisticity that is relatable to all readers, I think. The characters were so down to earth in their struggles and how they handled them, you can't help but empathize with and relate to them. I loved the faith themes woven effortlessly throughout, and even found myself inspired by some of them. I was very skeptical as to Marcella's belief system and practices, and while I don't feel like those issues were ever fully resolved, I could still appreciate her character arc.

One thing in particular I liked was the Michigan setting and some of the local history Neva included. It's clear that the author is either familiar with the area, or has thoroughly done her research.

All in all, this is a very sweet novel that I would definitely recommend to lovers of small-town stories and sweet romance!
Profile Image for Debi Stout.
740 reviews19 followers
March 30, 2019
Rating 3.5 stars!

Across the Bridge is the continuing story of the characters introduced in Ms. Neva's first two novels, Snow Country and Copper Country. In Across the Bridge, readers continue on the journey of Louise’s battle with ALS. We see how she touches hearts of her friends and neighbors and how her faith sustains her.  In the final season of her life, Louise’s family comes to the island to help care for her.

Faith is woven into the tale in all three of Ms. Neva's books, and each of them could serve as standalone novels. While I did not read the first two, it's clear that they do flow well together as a trio. 

Across the Bridge deals with real life stuff too - sorrow and suffering alongside personal growth.  The author shares with readers the concept of hope and how it doesn't dim the hearts of those walking daily with God despite the many challenges life throws their way.  She writes about real and relatable characters, and I loved how the author didn't steer away from difficult discussions in her books such as suffering or where God is when folks are suffering.  

I received a courtesy copy of this book in exchange for my participation in this blog tour.  No positive review was required.
Profile Image for Tressa (Wishful Endings).
1,828 reviews195 followers
January 6, 2020
3.5 Stars

ACROSS THE BRIDGE is a story about battling illness, aging, loss, new birth, faith, and risking your heart. Told from two different perspectives and set in a small town, readers will be invited into these characters' lives, with their struggles and hopes. Recommended to inspirational women's fiction fans.

This story was bittersweet and centered on some fun characters. AJ or "Andy" was probably my favorite character from this story, although Drew comes in a close second. I loved seeing this son and father pair try to work through their loss, moving to a new place, and opening their hearts to new relationships. I also liked Marcella with her own quirks and her connection to nature. There were also quite a few other interesting characters to keep things entertaining. The plot moved slowly along as these characters tried to work through things. This story definitely had a stronger inspirational element, but it was woven through the story well. I found the ending particularly sweet.

Much of this story circled around a sweet elderly lady who was losing her battle to illness. Those who have dealt with similar loss and those who question why God allows these things to happen will easily relate to this aspect of the story. It was heartbreaking in many ways, but also lovely as Marcella and others surround Louisa with love as she faces this struggle.

I did have some issues with the story. A lot of the time I felt like I was being told what a character was doing during their day (i.e. they went here, they packed this for lunch, etc.) that didn't' always have any bearing on the story and mad it feel like I was being told the story versus experiencing it. There were a lot of characters and I didn't really have time to figure them all out, making it difficult to really form a good connection with the main characters. This may not have been as big of an issue if I'd read the other books before this one. There were also a lot of facts and scenes that I didn't feel were important to the story and then parts that I felt were important seemed to be skimmed over or worked out off script. I would have liked to have dug deeper along with these characters instead of issues just being glossed over or not really worked out. I still feel like there were things that weren't resolved or they were, but not in the story so they felt unfinished. I think delving deeper into those parts would have made this a more emotional story and would have allowed me to better connect with the characters.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This story had its faults, but I enjoyed it overall.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author, which did not require a positive review nor affect my review in any way.
Profile Image for Suzie Waltner.
Author 12 books148 followers
April 3, 2019
I’ve only read a couple books set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (or UP), so another book set in the area with their proud history and roots is always great to find. Kristin Neva enhanced my knowledge of the Copper Country area while introducing a cast of characters who are not easily forgotten. (For some of you, these characters may be familiar, but this was my first book by Neva).

There is a lot happening in Across the Bridge that held my interest and attention. From the uncertainty Marcella has about God after her mother’s death to AJ’s paternity to a friend’s struggle with ALS and all the relationship dynamics, I was definitely not ever bored with this story.

I enjoyed watching the friendship between Marcella and Drew grow and the almost instantaneous connection she had with AJ. Each of these three struggle with difficult, true-to-life issues and their relationships (with each other as well as others in their lives) require some work and some healing. Experiencing loss bonds Drew, AJ, and Marcella together.

One thing I felt was missing in this story was a conversation or more interaction between Marcella and her father because at times, he comes across as unfeeling about Marcella’s circumstances. Circumstances he’s put her in. But that was just a small part of the book, and everything else points readers toward forgiveness, healing, and the strengths (and sacrifices) of love.

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.
Profile Image for Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective).
1,419 reviews83 followers
May 6, 2019
There was so much going on in the book that it was hard to break away from it. The characters were intriguing, the setting was beautiful, and the problems that the characters dealt with were realistic. I should also point out, this is book three in a series that I have not read. Even so, I didn’t feel lost at any point. I’m not sure if all the characters are new, or the author just did a wonderful job of filling in the blanks where needed, but I felt it could definitely be read as a stand alone.

Three things stood out to me the most – dealing with ALS, finding out AJ’s dad was someone else, and Marcella’s walk with the Lord. Three things that don’t seem to have anything to do with the other, and yet Neva was able to weave the storylines together seamlessly, as if they belonged together the entire time. Marcella’s walk with the Lord is really what captured my attention the most. From the moment she received a bible in the very beginning, but almost immediately tried to give it away, I was zoned in on her character. Obviously there was some hurt in there somewhere (you learn about it later on), and I found myself wondering if I would be able to hold strong onto my faith in a similar situation, or I would run far away. Her journey was thought provoking and my favorite part of the entire story.

I think different people will get different things about of this book. The way Drew and AJ’s story unraveled will touch some. Having to take care of someone with ALS will certainly touch the hearts of many. Or, if you’re like me, it’s seeing a person learn and grow in their walk with the Lord. It might even be all of the above. My point is, this is a book I think many will enjoy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Karen.
106 reviews11 followers
April 5, 2019
I was so pleasantly surprised to discover that Across the Bridge takes place in my home state! Copper Country is absolutely beautiful so I’m a little biased to the book’s setting. Kristin Neva does such a wonderful job of describing the scenery and the extreme weather of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

In the story, young widower Drew moves to Quincy with his young son and is immediately drawn in by his landlord Marcella, a unique young woman with a penchant for gardening, nature, and healing. While Drew is excited at the prospect of getting to know Marcella better, she is very cautious about overstepping boundaries with Drew’s son AJ. She’s learned from experience, having lost her mother at a young age and then being quickly forced to adjust to a new stepmother. Adding another layer of complication is the possibility that Drew’s late wife might have hidden the truth about AJ’s true paternity.

There are a lot of topics covered in this book, and I think that most of them are handled well. I felt like we could have had a little more spiritual growth from Marcella, but if the series continues then I’m sure we’ll get to see her progress! I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, but I still appreciate the way that the characters of Copper Island are all woven together through love and friendship.

Overall, this book is a nice portrayal of the people in Copper Country, and I’m looking forward to catching up on the books that I missed! I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours and am under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.
1,575 reviews30 followers
May 10, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This is a really interesting book, because there is so much going on in the story. I didn’t read the first two books in this series, but author Kristin Neva does an amazing job of telling enough of the characters and the issues they are dealing with, I was able to understand and comprehend what was going on. The characters seemed to pop out at me and I loved how each developed throughout the story, especially Marcella and her walk with the Lord. It was neat that her neighbor gave her a gift, that she later found out was a Bible. And AJ had my heart from the beginning. And the storyline with what this child would have to deal with was heartbreaking. But then it turns ok to be a not so bad thing. And the other major thing is sweet Louise as she continues her battle with ALS. And how her caregivers and friends and family come together to care for her. Not reading the first two books in this series, I missed out on the first part of Louise’s life, but again, the author helps us understand what is going on.

This story is full of action, and for this reason, you need to read the book to find out what happens. I dont go into detail because that would ruin the book for you. This is my first book from this author and I am very impressed. I love all of the details with each subject she deals with, and its clear she has well researched her topics before she writes this book. I highly recommend Across the Bridge by Kristen Neva

A copy of this book was given to me by the author. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in the review are mine alone, after reading this book.

 

Profile Image for Meagan | The Chapter House.
2,025 reviews49 followers
April 5, 2019
ROFL - I literally just realized this is book 3 in a series ... and that explains a lot.

You could read this on its own, but I do think it would make more sense reading the books in order. I was confused at times, thinking there must be a back story there I just missed (because I do that).

However. That being said, this is a lovely book, a read that will just bring joy to your heart as you follow Marcella and Drew's story. Marcella's visit to her parents' home and subsequent cleaning out of the attic (no spoilers here!) was particularly poignant.

Watching the puzzle pieces fit together about Drew and whether he's AJ's biological father -- it was a bit like watching a car crash: you know it's coming, you know there will be pain and uncertainty, and you want to look away -- but you also need to find out what happens, and how. I felt this story line was handled tactfully and graciously, and I as a reader was ultimately satisfied with how it all resolved.

The characters are certainly a hoot! I am excited to read the first two books in the series and learn more about how they became who they are in this one.

Recommended read, especially in spring and summertime. I'm ready to visit Michigan!

I received a copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Laura.
434 reviews32 followers
May 1, 2019
Across the Bridge by Kristen Neva, a new-to-me author, is the third in the series A Copper Island.

Unfortunately, for me, I was unable to become engrossed in the storyline of this novel. No particular reason. The storyline is well-written and the character development is also done. That said, I just purchased the first two books in the series and will be reading the entire series, returning to provide an updated review. Despite the fact that the novel can be read as a stand-a-lone, I believe my personal enjoyment of Across the Bridge will be enhanced by reading the first books in the series.

There is something to this series that I am missing, enough so that I’m willing to so a binge read of all three books together.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own.
Profile Image for Sarah.
958 reviews32 followers
December 25, 2018
Across the Bridge was my favorite book in the Copper Island series. I loved every single moment of this book by Kristin. She did a fantastic job with this book. I felt right at home turning the pages. The story line was fast paced as inhaled this book from beginning to end. The story was deep and meaningful, but can also be read as a standalone if you haven't been able to read the entire series, but I highly recommend reading the entire series. It is much richer of a story line if you are able to read the series. I love how Kristin doesn't shy away from difficult discussions in her books either like suffering or where is God in the suffering? She makes her characters real, which makes all of her books so much more relatable and enjoyable as a reader.
I give this book 5/5 stars. Thank you to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy. A favorable review was not required.
182 reviews
April 3, 2019
I never knew what a Yooper was until I read this book! Kristin Neva vividly describes the Upper Peninsula, the enduring rich heritages of the people living there and the unique beauty of the area. Although I hadn’t read the first books in this series, I found that this could be a standalone novel.

Endearing characters begin creating chemistry from the start – the relationship between Marcella and Drew is allowed to naturally progress. Both have personal issues they’re dealing with and the author wisely allows those to be dealt with before they jump into a serious relationship. A loveable son, AJ, parents, and step-parents join with other memorable characters to make this a very interesting and enjoyable book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Julissa.
59 reviews
April 6, 2019
This was such an enjoyable read! I especially loved the authors writing style, it really drew me in. Although this is book three in this series it can be read as a standalone, but I'd still want to go back and read the other books. I really liked the way the author described the setting it sounded incredible, like a place I'd like to visit.

There was some touching topics that were brought up, I definitely went through several different emotions. This was mainly because I felt emotionally invested in the characters and their back stories. I always appreciate when an author can create characters that you can connect with and that's what this read did for me.

Overall this was a satisfying read. I'll definitely be recommending it to my friends.

Disclaimer: I recieved this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,766 reviews46 followers
April 7, 2019
Across the Bridge is set in a quaint town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I LOVE Quaint towns and that was one of the draws for me to read this book.

I was drawn into the storyline rather quickly through the writing style of the author Kristin Neva. Across the Bridge is about a widower, Drew, and his young son moving to a new town. Drew is immediately taking a liking to his landlord, Marcella. Will the 2 of them forge a new relationship, or will the fact that a child is involved make them step back and take it slow?

I like the fact that the author tackles some sensitive and difficult topics in a reader friendly manner. GREAT BOOK!

Across the Bridge is book 3 of the Cooper Island series, but it a GREAT stand alone book. Kristin Neva is a new author to me, but I plan on going back and reading the first 2 books in this series!
207 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2019
Across the Bridge

Great storyline with events bringing the various characters together as the story fleshed out. Great Characters. Not only do you watch Marcella grow, into a young woman in love, you watched her understanding of her love for Christ Jesus grow as well. Losing her Mother to cancer at age 13 made her question her love of Him.

AJ, a neat little boy, one too whose mother had died . His dad Drew not only has lost his wife, but has knowledge of AJ's paternity brought to his attention very painfully.

Life & death interwoven so skillfully together, giving you comfort in the knowledge, you are aware as always, it is the way of God's world, as He created it to be. Great Read. Enjoy
Profile Image for Astrid Pizarro (Book Lover's Book Reviews).
44 reviews102 followers
April 22, 2019
I enjoyed the small town setting, I also loved the characters. Neva’s writing made the story so relatable, you can connect with the characters so well. The story is very sweet, I’d recommend it anyone that like sweet romance stories. The topics discussed within the book are highlighted so well in my opinion and the author doesn’t shy away from topics either. The story was fast paced but I loved the meaning of it.
Profile Image for Emily Yager.
Author 10 books88 followers
May 6, 2019
While this is book three in this series. I did not feel like I missed out on anything by not reading the first two books in this series.

There is a lot happening in this book, and I found myself not being able to put it down. All the complex and sometimes real-to-life difficult relationships melded well together and really brought this story to life.

A great story that I highly recommend.
7 reviews
January 23, 2021
After visiting the area, I found this local artist. This book serious was great and made me appreciate the area even more! The stories mingle together very well, but don’t double what is in the others.
2 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2018
Delightful

Another delightful book. The author does such a wonderful job drawing you into the story. I feel like I know life in the UP. I am ready for book 4
Profile Image for Patty.
666 reviews2 followers
April 28, 2020
What an enjoyable threesome the Copper Island books are: Snow Country, Copper Country, and Across the Bridge. Nicely written with enjoyable characters, easy with whom to identify, they’re good reads.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,093 reviews20 followers
July 1, 2019
Across the Bridge

My thoughts:

This is a good read. Lots of different opinions and tough topics addressed through out. It was a slow read for me though. I'm normally a fast reader but this went slower.

It takes place in upstate Michigan. Drew lost his wife to a car crash and is now raising their son by himself. But is it really his son? Drew never considered that he wasn't the father of AJ until they move to be closer to his wife's parents.

Drew and AJ take a downstairs duplex apartment. Their landlord or rather the landlords daughter is Marcella. She's warm and caring and just what they need. Both guys fall for her and enjoy spending their time with her.

Marcella lost her mom when she was fifteen and she firmly believes that she cannot have a relationship with Drew because she does not want to replace AJ's mom or make his life as bad as her stepmom made hers. She's still not over her dad remarrying after her mom had only been gone a year.

As a massage therapist Marcella gets to spend time with lots of different people. She especially loves Louisa who is like a grandmother to her. Louisa suffers from ALS and is slowly wasting away. She no longer lives in her home and would dearly love to go back.

Add in people mistaking AJ for a man called Danny and things start to get a bit complex. Throw in that Marcella doesn't have a relationship with God anymore because she's mad over her mom's death and they really get complicated.

Can Drew and Marcella work things out and trust each other enough to have a relationship? Will Drew lose AJ or can he hold on to the boy he calls son?

Great read. Highly recommend it. More than just a feel good romance.
Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,653 reviews151 followers
reviewed
April 5, 2019
3.5

Take a trip to the northern parts of Michigan, settling into the fascinating beauty of Copper Island with Kristin Neva’s Across the Bridge.

Marcella Seppa’s new tenant, Drew Smith, sparks interest and attraction, but also the recollection of past hurts. Of course, Drew has his own troubles to sort through with his son, AJ. Their story pushes them to struggle through their individual issues, coupled with grief and sorrow, toward healing, forgiveness, faith, and love, and the growth they experience is inspiring.

With an interesting cast of characters, Neva writes a thought-provoking story. It continues her Copper Island series, but stands well enough on its own, making it an entertaining read for the interested reader.

This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
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