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Refuge at Pine Lake
“ … a tender story of healing and finding a place to belong. This sweet, Southern romance doesn’t disappoint.” – Liz Talley Robin Lancaster, a twenty-six-year-old former kindergarten teacher, has her summer and her life all figured out. She’s ready to be on her own, writing and illustrating her children’s stories at her family’s beloved lake house. Once there, she intends to rekindle a romance with Caleb Jackson, the area’s top hunting and fishing guide, and bag him for herself.Complications arise from the start when Robin finds out her mother has rented the lake house to a man they know nothing about. Matthew McLaughlin, forty-year-old widowed university professor and author from California, shows up at Pine Lake in crisis. A sabbatical might be his only hope to save much more than his career. He needs a place of refuge. Sharing the lake house with a lighthearted young woman and her dog is the last thing on his mind. Caleb Jackson has his own plans. He’s used to things going his way, but a man staying in Robin’s house presents unforeseen challenges. When paths unavoidably entangle for these three, hearts are on the line.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2019
562 people are currently reading
499 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
August 1, 2020
I've been really thinking about this review and trying to figure out where the book went wrong for me. Why didn't I like it?
And I think it was the lack of passion. All of the characters felt 2D. They didn't jump off the page. They didn't invoke emotion from myself. It was an issue, I think, with lack of showing. Don't tell me the main character felt guilt, describe her symptoms. Make it real.
There was also the issue with the fact that this was a "Christian novel". I'm going to admit I have not read very many Christian fiction novels, but I feel like there should be more than mentioning the main character goes to church on Sundays and shooting up a prayer when something is going wrong.
The main character liked to cook so we got details of what everyone was eating all the time. I didn't really mind this and some of the meals really made me hungry.
Overall, didn't care for this novel but I've seen where a lot of people did. So, looks like it was just me.
And I think it was the lack of passion. All of the characters felt 2D. They didn't jump off the page. They didn't invoke emotion from myself. It was an issue, I think, with lack of showing. Don't tell me the main character felt guilt, describe her symptoms. Make it real.
There was also the issue with the fact that this was a "Christian novel". I'm going to admit I have not read very many Christian fiction novels, but I feel like there should be more than mentioning the main character goes to church on Sundays and shooting up a prayer when something is going wrong.
The main character liked to cook so we got details of what everyone was eating all the time. I didn't really mind this and some of the meals really made me hungry.
Overall, didn't care for this novel but I've seen where a lot of people did. So, looks like it was just me.
July 3, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
When Matthew McLaughlin shows up at Pine Lake, never did he think he would be sharing the lake house with someone else. But Robin Lancaster was determined she was spending the summer at the lake house, despite the fact her mother had rented it out. And then there was Caleb Jackson, the heartthrob Robin was sure to snag while she spent the summer at the lake house.
I really enjoyed this story. The beautiful Southern setting makes a peaceful place to call home. Matthew needed a place like this while on sabbatical to try and salvage his job, but he learned so much more while he was at Pine Lake. Author Rose Chandler Johnson created wonderful realistic characters that drew me into the story and made me feel like part of the family. As the story unfolds, I was totally wrapped up in the details happening to each character. Each detailed scene gave the story more meaning as I continues to read. There were times the story got really interesting because of Matthew and Robin living in the same lake house for the summer, and Caleb looking on, which didn't suit him so well. But Ms. Johnson does an outstanding job of crafting scenes and weaving them together to make this story a most enjoyable one to read. Pine Lake turns out to be the warm peaceful place that is needed for everyone. It is a place I long to visit, as I am sure everyone who reads this novel would say the same. I am looking for more books by Rose Chandler Johnson in the future. In the meantime, check out My Fathers House and God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, also by this same author.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
When Matthew McLaughlin shows up at Pine Lake, never did he think he would be sharing the lake house with someone else. But Robin Lancaster was determined she was spending the summer at the lake house, despite the fact her mother had rented it out. And then there was Caleb Jackson, the heartthrob Robin was sure to snag while she spent the summer at the lake house.
I really enjoyed this story. The beautiful Southern setting makes a peaceful place to call home. Matthew needed a place like this while on sabbatical to try and salvage his job, but he learned so much more while he was at Pine Lake. Author Rose Chandler Johnson created wonderful realistic characters that drew me into the story and made me feel like part of the family. As the story unfolds, I was totally wrapped up in the details happening to each character. Each detailed scene gave the story more meaning as I continues to read. There were times the story got really interesting because of Matthew and Robin living in the same lake house for the summer, and Caleb looking on, which didn't suit him so well. But Ms. Johnson does an outstanding job of crafting scenes and weaving them together to make this story a most enjoyable one to read. Pine Lake turns out to be the warm peaceful place that is needed for everyone. It is a place I long to visit, as I am sure everyone who reads this novel would say the same. I am looking for more books by Rose Chandler Johnson in the future. In the meantime, check out My Fathers House and God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, also by this same author.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 2, 2025
Contemporary Christian romance. Not a lot of depth but not too cheesy.
June 27, 2019
I really enjoyed Refuge at Pine Lake. It is a clean contemporary romance. I was quickly drawn into the story and wanted to keep reading. I loved the main characters. This is the first book I've read by author Rose Chandler Johnson and I will be looking for more of her sweet books!
July 5, 2019
I'd love to give this 5 stars or more.
Christina Rose Johnson is a new to me author.
A sweet Southern book that will keep you reading and thinking about it long after you finish it.
I think that this would be A great place for healing a broken heart, rebuilding a friendship or just a lazy summer vacation.
I didn't want to leave Matthew and Robin. They were so easy to make friends with and poor Matt I just wanted to put my arms around him and give him a big encouraging hug!!
I'm glad that Robin was there too!! I thought she was a great help to him!
I did want to reach out a gran Callie the dog and pet her. I felt her energy coming from out of the page! I think she sensed that Matt needed a friend. Dogs are awesome like that.
I also felt the peacefulness of the lake coming through the pages too! How beautiful our Lord makes things just for our healing, love and friendship to grow!!
I enjoyed the supporting characters as well!!
I used to love going fishing until I caught a snake and that was the end of that cause I hate snakes!! I threw everything up into the air and ran for my grandfather who made me back and get my stuff. I wasn't going back there myself. I made him go with me.
So I've never been fishing since. That ruined it for me.
I like this author and will be looking for more from her! Her writing makes you feel like you're part of the story!
I strongly recommend this book for a great summer read!! Or any other time! I guarantee you won't want to return to the present!
My thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!!
Christina Rose Johnson is a new to me author.
A sweet Southern book that will keep you reading and thinking about it long after you finish it.
I think that this would be A great place for healing a broken heart, rebuilding a friendship or just a lazy summer vacation.
I didn't want to leave Matthew and Robin. They were so easy to make friends with and poor Matt I just wanted to put my arms around him and give him a big encouraging hug!!
I'm glad that Robin was there too!! I thought she was a great help to him!
I did want to reach out a gran Callie the dog and pet her. I felt her energy coming from out of the page! I think she sensed that Matt needed a friend. Dogs are awesome like that.
I also felt the peacefulness of the lake coming through the pages too! How beautiful our Lord makes things just for our healing, love and friendship to grow!!
I enjoyed the supporting characters as well!!
I used to love going fishing until I caught a snake and that was the end of that cause I hate snakes!! I threw everything up into the air and ran for my grandfather who made me back and get my stuff. I wasn't going back there myself. I made him go with me.
So I've never been fishing since. That ruined it for me.
I like this author and will be looking for more from her! Her writing makes you feel like you're part of the story!
I strongly recommend this book for a great summer read!! Or any other time! I guarantee you won't want to return to the present!
My thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!!
June 14, 2019
In her sweet Southern romance, Refuge at Pine Lake, Rose Chandler Johnson has written a beautiful story of friendship, healing, and love. Although a bit slow to get into in the beginning, readers will soon come to know the characters in the story, feeling all their emotions (ups and downs) along the way. Throughout the story there’s a bit of a love triangle taking place too, which draws readers into the story even more. A strong theme in this novel is hope. Hope for healing and for life to get better in the future. A fairly quick read, this story is one that is perfect for a lazy summer day.
Series: Pine Haven
Genre: Christian, contemporary, realistic
Publisher: Chanson Books
Publication date: March 5, 2019
Number of pages: 385
A review copy of this book was borrowed from Amazon Kindle Unlimited. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Pine Haven
Genre: Christian, contemporary, realistic
Publisher: Chanson Books
Publication date: March 5, 2019
Number of pages: 385
A review copy of this book was borrowed from Amazon Kindle Unlimited. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
July 14, 2019
I have been in a huge reading slump, and to be honest I was just not excited about this as much as I was when I agreed to review this one. All I can say is THANK YOU, and I am sorry I doubted it (that was a reading slump speaking; nothing against the story or author). This pulled me out of my slump, and I really want to read more from the author.
The story and writing drew in my attention right away. I loved both Matt and Robin from the very beginning. Both are dealing with some chances in their lives (I do not want to ruin anything), but I really liked what it brought to their stories. I like how they meet at the lake house, and how you see their relationship develop.
This was such a sweet read. If you love clean romance I highly recommend it. There is also a cute dog within the story which I loved. Overall, a great read!
The story and writing drew in my attention right away. I loved both Matt and Robin from the very beginning. Both are dealing with some chances in their lives (I do not want to ruin anything), but I really liked what it brought to their stories. I like how they meet at the lake house, and how you see their relationship develop.
This was such a sweet read. If you love clean romance I highly recommend it. There is also a cute dog within the story which I loved. Overall, a great read!
June 2, 2019
Robin wants to spend the summer in their family’s lake house to try and capture the attention of Caleb, the area’s top fishing guide. She also wants to spend time working on the picture book she has written. Without her knowledge Robin’s mom has rented the house out to a professor on sabbatical. Fortunately there is a studio apartment on the property where Robin can stay. The professor is also a writer who is recovering from the death of his wife.
The story is slow moving at times for me but the main characters are endearing and by the end of the book, readers will want to know what happens next. Robin and her tenant Matt grow and change as the book progresses. Rose Johnson did a good job with character development and the topic of two writers developing their stories while their life story develops is an enjoyable one.
While church attendance and prayer play a part in the story it is a small part. Faith and reliance on God for strength are there but do not play a large role. I wish that author Rose Johnson has given faith in God a larger role in the story.
Area of potential concern
Alcohol use, while not a large part of the story, is evident making this book inappropriate for some audiences.
I don’t think I would place this book in my k-12 Christian School library due to the alcohol use in the book.
I want to thank Rose Johnson and SLB Tours for the complimentary copy of Refuge at Pine Lake.
The story is slow moving at times for me but the main characters are endearing and by the end of the book, readers will want to know what happens next. Robin and her tenant Matt grow and change as the book progresses. Rose Johnson did a good job with character development and the topic of two writers developing their stories while their life story develops is an enjoyable one.
While church attendance and prayer play a part in the story it is a small part. Faith and reliance on God for strength are there but do not play a large role. I wish that author Rose Johnson has given faith in God a larger role in the story.
Area of potential concern
Alcohol use, while not a large part of the story, is evident making this book inappropriate for some audiences.
I don’t think I would place this book in my k-12 Christian School library due to the alcohol use in the book.
I want to thank Rose Johnson and SLB Tours for the complimentary copy of Refuge at Pine Lake.
June 4, 2019
Rose Chandler Johnson is a new to me author. I love the peace and calm the cover portrays which is one reason I wanted to give this book a shot. Another reason, is the title, I grew up going fishing on a Pine Lake (not the same lake as in the book though) and the title stirred up a few good memories.
This cozy summer read, while is it slow moving at times it still has a lot going for it. I really enjoyed the little twist on the traditional romance story. The characters, who happen to both be writers, are well written. I loved seeing how their story developed over the course of the book.
There are themes of pain and grief, grace, hopes and dreams, all woven together seamlessly into the picturesque Georgia lake country.
Not wanting to give anything away, I will note that there is a little bit of alcohol use in the book. It was such a minor part in the story that it didn’t personally bother me, but I know some of you may have a different opinion on it.
This cozy summer read, while is it slow moving at times it still has a lot going for it. I really enjoyed the little twist on the traditional romance story. The characters, who happen to both be writers, are well written. I loved seeing how their story developed over the course of the book.
There are themes of pain and grief, grace, hopes and dreams, all woven together seamlessly into the picturesque Georgia lake country.
Not wanting to give anything away, I will note that there is a little bit of alcohol use in the book. It was such a minor part in the story that it didn’t personally bother me, but I know some of you may have a different opinion on it.
June 29, 2019
Rose Chandler Johnson is a new to me author but it was the cover that caught my eye and after reading the description, I immediately knew it would be a book that I would enjoy reading. What I thought would be an enjoyable book actually became a book that I loved!
Robin Lancaster is a charming character although at first I had my doubts about her when she's determined to move to the family lake house for the summer knowing her mother had rented it to Matthew McLaughlin. I understood why Robin would want to spend her summer there since she was writing and illustrating her children's series. There was another deciding factor in her decision by the name of Caleb Jackson who she wanted to reconnect with.
Matthew the professor who is on a sabbatical quickly became one my favorite characters and his first few interactions with Robin are so sweet it just melted my heart. It isn't just the three main characters who made this such a good and fast read but the secondary characters were well developed, too. Did I like all of them? No ,I did not but they were interesting and important to the storyline. One of my other favorite characters was Charlie who became a good friend to Matthew and I looked forward to the time they spent together just as much as they did.
Overall, I loved this wonderfully crafted story with likeable characters and thought it flowed at a nice pace. I genuinely like the authors writing and will read more of her work and for those reasons, I recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Prism Book tours. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Robin Lancaster is a charming character although at first I had my doubts about her when she's determined to move to the family lake house for the summer knowing her mother had rented it to Matthew McLaughlin. I understood why Robin would want to spend her summer there since she was writing and illustrating her children's series. There was another deciding factor in her decision by the name of Caleb Jackson who she wanted to reconnect with.
Matthew the professor who is on a sabbatical quickly became one my favorite characters and his first few interactions with Robin are so sweet it just melted my heart. It isn't just the three main characters who made this such a good and fast read but the secondary characters were well developed, too. Did I like all of them? No ,I did not but they were interesting and important to the storyline. One of my other favorite characters was Charlie who became a good friend to Matthew and I looked forward to the time they spent together just as much as they did.
Overall, I loved this wonderfully crafted story with likeable characters and thought it flowed at a nice pace. I genuinely like the authors writing and will read more of her work and for those reasons, I recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Prism Book tours. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
June 2, 2019
Another summer read that made me want to pack a bag and head for a long week (or month) at the lake, Refuge at Pine Lake welcomes you to the beauty and majesty of Georgia country.
I appreciated that Matthew McLaughlin is not your typical hero from the romance genre. He is drowning in grief and guilt, to the point he is going through the motions of life. And, in fact, it’s the heroine of this book that rescues him.
There’s a bit of a love triangle in this book but I never liked Caleb for Robin. The guy just never sat well with me. I always felt like he was on the verge of being caught in a lie (and you’ll have to read the book to find out whether or not that was true).
A couple scenes slowed the cadence down, and I questioned whey they were included but overall, Rose Chandler Johnson gives readers a story of dreams lost, grace, and hope for a better, brighter future.
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.
I appreciated that Matthew McLaughlin is not your typical hero from the romance genre. He is drowning in grief and guilt, to the point he is going through the motions of life. And, in fact, it’s the heroine of this book that rescues him.
There’s a bit of a love triangle in this book but I never liked Caleb for Robin. The guy just never sat well with me. I always felt like he was on the verge of being caught in a lie (and you’ll have to read the book to find out whether or not that was true).
A couple scenes slowed the cadence down, and I questioned whey they were included but overall, Rose Chandler Johnson gives readers a story of dreams lost, grace, and hope for a better, brighter future.
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.
June 25, 2019
Refuge at Pine Lake is my first introduction to Rose Chandler Johnson’s writing. It definitely will not be the last. This heartwarming tale is a story of hope, grace healing, faith, overcoming and inspiration. I was intrigued from the beginning to the end. It is not a long read and I had no problem having it read in just a few hours. Which was, very well spent.
I highly recommend Refuge at Pine Lake for all readers. I believe so many would find it to relatable. I would love to give it one hundred stars if I could. I would love to read more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I highly recommend Refuge at Pine Lake for all readers. I believe so many would find it to relatable. I would love to give it one hundred stars if I could. I would love to read more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
October 15, 2019
This story was difficult at the beginning, but got into it and it ended up to be a great book.
June 23, 2019
Refuge at pine lake
Matt is try to get over the death of his wife. He rents a lake house to get away from everything. Robin is the daughter of the one renting it to him. She is staying next door.
Robin is close by where her sister lives. I really enjoyed the interaction with the children her sister has. Also a dog in the book that adds a lot to the story. Also loved the character Mr. Charlie that goes fish with Matt.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Prism book tours. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
Matt is try to get over the death of his wife. He rents a lake house to get away from everything. Robin is the daughter of the one renting it to him. She is staying next door.
Robin is close by where her sister lives. I really enjoyed the interaction with the children her sister has. Also a dog in the book that adds a lot to the story. Also loved the character Mr. Charlie that goes fish with Matt.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Prism book tours. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
June 11, 2019
Refuge at Pine Lake is a contemporary romance novel with Christian undertones. Matt is a professor and writer on sabbatical at a lake house; Robin is the owner of the lake house who is staying there to be closer to the local fishing guide, Caleb. The story proceeds exactly as you might expect.
I have mixed feelings about the novel as a whole. I was excited at first because Matt is portrayed as a grumpy, out-of-shape professor and it’s nice to see a male love interest who isn’t Mr. Handsome and Perfect. My enthusiasm waned a bit once he gets a haircut, gets back into shape, and becomes less grumpy, as it’s then immediately noted how handsome he is. Robin, too, is Miss Perfect—the male character immediately notices how good-looking she is, becomes immediately attracted to her, etc. I probably wouldn’t have minded so much if the entire book wasn’t so insta-love focused. I mean, Matt and Robin exchange a handful of conversations, but most of it is simply “You’re good-looking and I love you even though I’ve barely talked to you.” To be honest, Caleb and Robin’s relationship seemed much more realistic, though Caleb as a character was incredibly up-and-down—was I supposed to like him or hate him? He switched back and forth from being a possessive jerk with an apparent fear of commitment to a nice guy who genuinely loved his girlfriend. So, basically, the romance aspect depends entirely on tired tropes, insta-love, and handsome and perfect people.
I also had a few issues with the writing style, though I’m very picky in that regard. Was it necessary to detail every single meal the characters ate, complete with how Robin made each thing? I’ve never felt more like I was reading a recipe book disguised as a romance. Also, I had many questions about how Robin was affording to spend such a leisurely time at the lake house, buy all of the food, and pay all the bills without a job (she was only working on her children’s book—she hadn’t published anything yet, so there was no money from that quarter). Did Matt’s rent pay for all of that?
Lastly, if you’re going to market your book to Christians, can there be more Christianity in there than casual, brief references to God and prayer? Don’t cheese and preach it up, but at least give more than sparse prayers and mentions. I can’t even recall if the characters went to church or not, or if they had Bibles and read them.
I guess my mixed feelings turned more negative as I wrote this review. I know lots of people would probably enjoy Refuge at Pine Lake, especially if they don’t over-analyze or want specific things. But since I do, it wasn’t the book for me.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
I have mixed feelings about the novel as a whole. I was excited at first because Matt is portrayed as a grumpy, out-of-shape professor and it’s nice to see a male love interest who isn’t Mr. Handsome and Perfect. My enthusiasm waned a bit once he gets a haircut, gets back into shape, and becomes less grumpy, as it’s then immediately noted how handsome he is. Robin, too, is Miss Perfect—the male character immediately notices how good-looking she is, becomes immediately attracted to her, etc. I probably wouldn’t have minded so much if the entire book wasn’t so insta-love focused. I mean, Matt and Robin exchange a handful of conversations, but most of it is simply “You’re good-looking and I love you even though I’ve barely talked to you.” To be honest, Caleb and Robin’s relationship seemed much more realistic, though Caleb as a character was incredibly up-and-down—was I supposed to like him or hate him? He switched back and forth from being a possessive jerk with an apparent fear of commitment to a nice guy who genuinely loved his girlfriend. So, basically, the romance aspect depends entirely on tired tropes, insta-love, and handsome and perfect people.
I also had a few issues with the writing style, though I’m very picky in that regard. Was it necessary to detail every single meal the characters ate, complete with how Robin made each thing? I’ve never felt more like I was reading a recipe book disguised as a romance. Also, I had many questions about how Robin was affording to spend such a leisurely time at the lake house, buy all of the food, and pay all the bills without a job (she was only working on her children’s book—she hadn’t published anything yet, so there was no money from that quarter). Did Matt’s rent pay for all of that?
Lastly, if you’re going to market your book to Christians, can there be more Christianity in there than casual, brief references to God and prayer? Don’t cheese and preach it up, but at least give more than sparse prayers and mentions. I can’t even recall if the characters went to church or not, or if they had Bibles and read them.
I guess my mixed feelings turned more negative as I wrote this review. I know lots of people would probably enjoy Refuge at Pine Lake, especially if they don’t over-analyze or want specific things. But since I do, it wasn’t the book for me.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2019
Robin is determined to have the perfect summer and capture the attention of Caleb. She plans to stay at her family's lake house even though her mother rented it out. Her determination and forcefulness makes her a little hard to like at first. She seems more concerned about her needs without realizing how much she's infringing on the tenant's privacy.
Gradually, her character becomes more likable and I was cheering for her to realize that she should be shifting her attention away from Caleb to Matt. Matt's emotional state seems a bit overdone at first. I think it's a decent "beach" or "summer" read.
Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate a review, however my opinions remain my own.
Gradually, her character becomes more likable and I was cheering for her to realize that she should be shifting her attention away from Caleb to Matt. Matt's emotional state seems a bit overdone at first. I think it's a decent "beach" or "summer" read.
Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate a review, however my opinions remain my own.
August 14, 2019
Oh I love it when a story takes place in the south! I really enjoyed the welcoming community of Pine Haven, Georgia.
Refuge at Pine Lake is a tender and emotive story dealing with loss, healing, friendship, and second chances. I’m in #booklove at the moment, so please forgive me as I gush…
Robin, Caleb, and Matthew make a perfect love triangle. The two men are vastly different, yet I understood Robin’s pull toward both of them (in the beginning, anyway.) Her passions, desires, and struggles felt authentic, and I never once had the urge to shake sense into her. Ha.
The main and secondary characters’ outside relationships and individual battles gave the story so much depth. I connected to Robin with ease, I was leary of Caleb (though I didn’t have a concrete reason) and I sympathized and rooted for Matt. (Gush. Me thinks me has a crush.) I wanted to hug him and encourage him on his sabbatical of healing. With Robin and Matt having similar interests and passions, their friendship had a solid, believable foundation to build from.
The two things that I enjoyed most about this story were the pacing and the heart (no pun intended.) The story took its time—not in a dragging-out-so-I-wanted-to-skip-pages kind of way, but more like a savory simmer that kept me enticed, and then completely sated in the end. The pacing in this story made me so happy, because oftentimes authors move this kind of relationship too quickly. The slow-boil romance here was perfect.
I can’t wait to visit this endearing Pine Haven community again and to soak in the soothing peace it provides. I love when I close a book with a sigh.
Sigh…
Quotes from the book:
It was good to be home, back in the place she’d known only happiness.
Love is always a timely gift.
My thoughts on the cover:
A serene and welcoming scene.
My thoughts on the title:
A fitting title.
★★★★★
Author: Rose Chandler Johnson
Publisher: Chanson Books
Series: A Pine Haven Novel Book 1
Pages: 385
First line: “When God burns down your house, you know it’s time to move.”
Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of SLB Tours. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
#RefugeAtPineLake #PineHaven #SouthernFiction
Refuge at Pine Lake is a tender and emotive story dealing with loss, healing, friendship, and second chances. I’m in #booklove at the moment, so please forgive me as I gush…
Robin, Caleb, and Matthew make a perfect love triangle. The two men are vastly different, yet I understood Robin’s pull toward both of them (in the beginning, anyway.) Her passions, desires, and struggles felt authentic, and I never once had the urge to shake sense into her. Ha.
The main and secondary characters’ outside relationships and individual battles gave the story so much depth. I connected to Robin with ease, I was leary of Caleb (though I didn’t have a concrete reason) and I sympathized and rooted for Matt. (Gush. Me thinks me has a crush.) I wanted to hug him and encourage him on his sabbatical of healing. With Robin and Matt having similar interests and passions, their friendship had a solid, believable foundation to build from.
The two things that I enjoyed most about this story were the pacing and the heart (no pun intended.) The story took its time—not in a dragging-out-so-I-wanted-to-skip-pages kind of way, but more like a savory simmer that kept me enticed, and then completely sated in the end. The pacing in this story made me so happy, because oftentimes authors move this kind of relationship too quickly. The slow-boil romance here was perfect.
I can’t wait to visit this endearing Pine Haven community again and to soak in the soothing peace it provides. I love when I close a book with a sigh.
Sigh…
Quotes from the book:
It was good to be home, back in the place she’d known only happiness.
Love is always a timely gift.
My thoughts on the cover:
A serene and welcoming scene.
My thoughts on the title:
A fitting title.
★★★★★
Author: Rose Chandler Johnson
Publisher: Chanson Books
Series: A Pine Haven Novel Book 1
Pages: 385
First line: “When God burns down your house, you know it’s time to move.”
Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of SLB Tours. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
#RefugeAtPineLake #PineHaven #SouthernFiction
June 13, 2019
I have read a few books (right in a row) about vacation homes especially next to a body of water. They make for really great beach reads and all of them have had some really great lessons and stories. This one just might be my favorite of that genre. This story is about three people. Robin Lancaster who just wants to go back to her family’s summer home on the lake and illustrate and write her children’s books and pursue the man of her dreams. Mathew McLaughlin, a writer, who is severely depressed and needs peace and quiet and a change of scenery. And Caleb Jackson playboy, sports guy who is going places with his professional career.
I really liked how this story played out from the beginning. What I most enjoyed about this story was the bit of a love triangle that these characters find themselves in. Yep, I like love triangles when they are done well and this one was. The growth of certain of these characters brings them to a place where some big life decisions must be made. Is what they thought they always wanted still what they want or even need? Can dreams change or be altered into a better life and direction then one thought possible?
Mathew’s character growth was my favorite; he was actually my favorite character. He was a bit older and wiser than the others, and lived and survived through some of life’s toughest situations. Without giving anything more away, open this book and be swept away to Pine Lake and into these character’s lives.
This is the second book I have read and my favorite by author Johnson and I look forward to more of her enthralling stories.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
I really liked how this story played out from the beginning. What I most enjoyed about this story was the bit of a love triangle that these characters find themselves in. Yep, I like love triangles when they are done well and this one was. The growth of certain of these characters brings them to a place where some big life decisions must be made. Is what they thought they always wanted still what they want or even need? Can dreams change or be altered into a better life and direction then one thought possible?
Mathew’s character growth was my favorite; he was actually my favorite character. He was a bit older and wiser than the others, and lived and survived through some of life’s toughest situations. Without giving anything more away, open this book and be swept away to Pine Lake and into these character’s lives.
This is the second book I have read and my favorite by author Johnson and I look forward to more of her enthralling stories.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
July 18, 2019
Refuge at Pine Lake
A Pine Haven Novel
By Rose Chandler Johnson
Robin Lancaster has had a crush on Caleb Jackson for years and he never noticed her - until last year. But the romance that promised to be something more fizzled as fall moved in and Robin left Pine Lake behind. But this summer she's determined to once again catch Caleb's attention and wrangle a marriage proposal out of him. There is just one complication to her plans - her mother rented out their lake home to a perfect stranger.
Ughhh - what's a girl to do with her future happiness on the line? Robin decides to do a little creative strategizing - first off convince Matthew McLaughlin that she is part of the lake house deal - she'll do the cooking and take up residence in the small apartment off the house.
Matt just wants to be left along - living in the guilt that has consumed him the last few years following his wife's death. But thanks to the intervention of his best friend he finds himself leaving California behind for Georgia and Pine Lake. With his grumbly personality, he is less than happy to discover a young woman with a bubbly personality living there.
Refuge at Pine Lake is an enjoyable read as Robin, Matt, and Caleb are caught up in a unique situation. Can Robin's high school dreams come true? Or is there something better for her that she'll lose with her own machinations. This is a contemporary romance that those looking for a clean read will enjoy (word of warning there is a fair bit of kissing so if you aren't a fan you are forewarned).
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.
A Pine Haven Novel
By Rose Chandler Johnson
Robin Lancaster has had a crush on Caleb Jackson for years and he never noticed her - until last year. But the romance that promised to be something more fizzled as fall moved in and Robin left Pine Lake behind. But this summer she's determined to once again catch Caleb's attention and wrangle a marriage proposal out of him. There is just one complication to her plans - her mother rented out their lake home to a perfect stranger.
Ughhh - what's a girl to do with her future happiness on the line? Robin decides to do a little creative strategizing - first off convince Matthew McLaughlin that she is part of the lake house deal - she'll do the cooking and take up residence in the small apartment off the house.
Matt just wants to be left along - living in the guilt that has consumed him the last few years following his wife's death. But thanks to the intervention of his best friend he finds himself leaving California behind for Georgia and Pine Lake. With his grumbly personality, he is less than happy to discover a young woman with a bubbly personality living there.
Refuge at Pine Lake is an enjoyable read as Robin, Matt, and Caleb are caught up in a unique situation. Can Robin's high school dreams come true? Or is there something better for her that she'll lose with her own machinations. This is a contemporary romance that those looking for a clean read will enjoy (word of warning there is a fair bit of kissing so if you aren't a fan you are forewarned).
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.
June 25, 2019
Twenty-six-year-old Robin Lancaster had lived with her mom long enough. Having had their condo burn down, it seemed like a nice transition time to living separately. Mom, off to care for her own mother, and Robin to the family's lake house where she could renew her relationship with her hero turned boyfriend from the previous summer. Only, unbeknownst to her, Robin's mother had rented their lake house to a professor on sabbatical. Robin wouldn't let that stop her plan for getting Caleb to put a ring on her finger.
Professor Matt McLaughlin had agreed to this sabbatical quite reluctantly. It seems he needed an intervention. It had been years since his wife died in a terrible car accident, for which Matt felt he was to blame, and he just hadn't been able to pull himself together. This sabbatical on the other side of the country was a last effort to find some degree of normalcy, to find himself. He did not anticipate a live in caregiver, especially not one like Robin Lancaster.
Refuge at Pine Lake is a great summer vacation or staycation read. While including all of the charm found in small towns in the south, the author tackles some big themes like grief and planning for the future while still listening to God's direction.
I was very happy to have received a copy of Refuge at Pine Lake from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.
Professor Matt McLaughlin had agreed to this sabbatical quite reluctantly. It seems he needed an intervention. It had been years since his wife died in a terrible car accident, for which Matt felt he was to blame, and he just hadn't been able to pull himself together. This sabbatical on the other side of the country was a last effort to find some degree of normalcy, to find himself. He did not anticipate a live in caregiver, especially not one like Robin Lancaster.
Refuge at Pine Lake is a great summer vacation or staycation read. While including all of the charm found in small towns in the south, the author tackles some big themes like grief and planning for the future while still listening to God's direction.
I was very happy to have received a copy of Refuge at Pine Lake from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.
June 24, 2019
After a fire forces Robin Lancaster and her mother to move out of their condo, they decide to reevaluate their living arrangement. Robin decides to use the family's lake house to rearrange her priorities including finding love. Robin is a former kindergarten teacher but, she decides she wants to focus on her artwork. She hopes to rekindle her romance with Caleb Jackson, who is the area's top hunting and fishing guide. However, all of Robin's plans go awry when she finds out the cabin has been rented to a professor on sabbatical leave.
Matthew McLaughlin is a widowed university professor and an acclaimed author from California. He comes to Pine Lake to heal after losing his wife in a car accident. He hopes that this sabbatical will help him revitalize his spirits and writing career. However, when he crosses path with Robin and her dog, he wonders if there is more to life.
At first, I wasn't very fond of the main characters. Robin seemed very involved in wanting to have freedom from her mother and to be able to pursue Caleb freely. However, she didn't take into account Matt's feelings and his need for privacy. On the same hand, Matt seemed to be gruff when they first met and then falls for Robin after a few homecooked meals. As the novel progressed, I did warm up a bit more to the characters and was hoping that they get their own happy ending.
Matthew McLaughlin is a widowed university professor and an acclaimed author from California. He comes to Pine Lake to heal after losing his wife in a car accident. He hopes that this sabbatical will help him revitalize his spirits and writing career. However, when he crosses path with Robin and her dog, he wonders if there is more to life.
At first, I wasn't very fond of the main characters. Robin seemed very involved in wanting to have freedom from her mother and to be able to pursue Caleb freely. However, she didn't take into account Matt's feelings and his need for privacy. On the same hand, Matt seemed to be gruff when they first met and then falls for Robin after a few homecooked meals. As the novel progressed, I did warm up a bit more to the characters and was hoping that they get their own happy ending.
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October 5, 2019I've realised this trope doesnt work for me. I like some realism in my romance and there were aspects of this that left me very uncomfortable.
For starters the 'misread' timings (egMatt getting to the airport) didnt seem believable. This is a guy who has had a SERIOUS mental breakdown - Surely Tom, who had arranged to rent the cabin etc to help Matt recover, would not have left his best friend to make his own way to the airport?
And then Robin - having been TOLD the cabin was rented for six months, decides to just go there anyway.
I was really uncomfortable with the fact that Robin thought it was acceptable to simply walk in on Matt. This was not only intrusive but illegal!
And then she promptly inveigles her way into the house and simply takes over. Its clear to her that Matt is depressed and exhausted and yet she stays? This is a man with a mental illness. Her actions amount to abuse.
And THEN - and this beggared belief!!! - her 'ex' turns up at the cabin - which is rented to Matt!!! and Robin invites him in to join them for a meal!!
WTF???
I'm done. This was stupid. I am hoping Matt discovers what she's up to and throws her out and then takes her to court. She's selfish, rude and utterly thoughtless. He deserved better.
Not rating at this moment.
For starters the 'misread' timings (egMatt getting to the airport) didnt seem believable. This is a guy who has had a SERIOUS mental breakdown - Surely Tom, who had arranged to rent the cabin etc to help Matt recover, would not have left his best friend to make his own way to the airport?
And then Robin - having been TOLD the cabin was rented for six months, decides to just go there anyway.
I was really uncomfortable with the fact that Robin thought it was acceptable to simply walk in on Matt. This was not only intrusive but illegal!
And then she promptly inveigles her way into the house and simply takes over. Its clear to her that Matt is depressed and exhausted and yet she stays? This is a man with a mental illness. Her actions amount to abuse.
And THEN - and this beggared belief!!! - her 'ex' turns up at the cabin - which is rented to Matt!!! and Robin invites him in to join them for a meal!!
WTF???
I'm done. This was stupid. I am hoping Matt discovers what she's up to and throws her out and then takes her to court. She's selfish, rude and utterly thoughtless. He deserved better.
Not rating at this moment.
August 23, 2022
Matthew McLaughlin has been drowning in grief and guilt after his wife died in a car accident 4 years ago, he blames himself because he was driving. His friends get him to take a sabbatical and spend some time with nature at Pine Lake in Georgia. He doesn't know it but Robin's mom owns the cabin, and Robin decides to stay there in a studio apartment while he is there. She provides meals but her main reason to be there is because she wants to reconnect with Caleb who is the area's top fishing guide. I didn't understand her rational, as she had gone out with him in the past and he had made it clear he wasn't planning to marry. When they get together again, he becomes jealous of Matthew and ends up proposing to Robin. I thought that was weird because he had always said he wanted to get his business going well before marrying anyone. When Robin breaks up with him, he later tells her that it was good she did because he didn't plan to marry for years, something he didn't mention when proposing.
I liked Matthew and Robin and they are good together. I never liked Caleb for her as I don't think he really wants to marry anyone. I liked a lot of the other characters and the dogs, and was glad when Robin figured out that Caleb was wrong for her.
I liked Matthew and Robin and they are good together. I never liked Caleb for her as I don't think he really wants to marry anyone. I liked a lot of the other characters and the dogs, and was glad when Robin figured out that Caleb was wrong for her.
June 27, 2019
Do you ever find yourself watching a movie and talking aloud to the actors on screen? "Don't go in there, this isn't going to end well!" (For me, this is particularly common with horror movies.) You see everything that is going on and cannot help but want to shake the characters and make them see what is right in front of them. I found myself feeling very much the same as I read Rose Chandler Johnson's new novel, 'Refuge at Pine Lake'.
The story jumps back and forth between the two leads characters- Robin and Matt- giving us the bird's eye view as their relationship formed... and all the misunderstandings along the way. As a romance novel, we naturally assume they are going to end up together in the end... but we can't help but wish they'd see what's REALLY going on. But then isn't that how it is in life? It's much easier to see things like this from the outside looking in.That constant back and forth certainly drew me in and I had to keep reading on to see how it all would end.
I must admit that this wasn't a book that grabbed me from the first pages, but after a few chapters, I was hooked. I loved the cast of characters the author created- not just our leads, but those around them as well. They were just the wide variety of characters one might expect to find in a small town such as this. To be honest, I couldn't help but find myself wanting to take refuge at the lake.
If you love a good romance, this one is fantastic. It's a fairly quick read and the perfect one to throw into your purse for your own lakeside relaxation. I loved it, and would certainly recommend it to all.
**Book received for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
The story jumps back and forth between the two leads characters- Robin and Matt- giving us the bird's eye view as their relationship formed... and all the misunderstandings along the way. As a romance novel, we naturally assume they are going to end up together in the end... but we can't help but wish they'd see what's REALLY going on. But then isn't that how it is in life? It's much easier to see things like this from the outside looking in.That constant back and forth certainly drew me in and I had to keep reading on to see how it all would end.
I must admit that this wasn't a book that grabbed me from the first pages, but after a few chapters, I was hooked. I loved the cast of characters the author created- not just our leads, but those around them as well. They were just the wide variety of characters one might expect to find in a small town such as this. To be honest, I couldn't help but find myself wanting to take refuge at the lake.
If you love a good romance, this one is fantastic. It's a fairly quick read and the perfect one to throw into your purse for your own lakeside relaxation. I loved it, and would certainly recommend it to all.
**Book received for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
July 24, 2019
This is a women’s contemporary fiction story set in a beautiful location in Georgia. I loved the description of Pine Lake, and the author described it so well I felt as if I had visited there. I liked the characters of Matt and Robin. Matt had my sympathy from the very beginning as he recovered from the tragic loss of his wife. It took me a couple of chapters to connect with Robin. The author does a good job of taking her from being somewhat immature to realizing what was truly her heart’s desire for her art career and her life. My favorite part of this book was Matt’s storyline. He goes from despair to hope, and that part of the story touched my heart. This story could be classified as Christian fiction, as there are mentions of faith and prayer, but that’s not a prominent part of this book. It’s a clean, sweet story that I enjoyed reading.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 6, 2021
free ebook
her dad died, she was living with her mom and the condo burned down. she was a kindergarten teacher but also childrens book writer and illustrator. she wanted to move to the lake house but her mom rented it out. she was determined that the man she met there was going to marry her even tho he told her he didnt want to get married
she went anyway and was the cook to the man who rented the lake house. his wife had died in a car accident when he was driving
the man she thought she wanted to marry asked her and she said yes, but she and the widower had developed feelings toward each other. she broke up the the first man but by then the renter had moved back to calif. but they both still loved each other so her sister wrote him a letter and he quit his job and moved back. they kissed and told each other they loved each other.
her dad died, she was living with her mom and the condo burned down. she was a kindergarten teacher but also childrens book writer and illustrator. she wanted to move to the lake house but her mom rented it out. she was determined that the man she met there was going to marry her even tho he told her he didnt want to get married
she went anyway and was the cook to the man who rented the lake house. his wife had died in a car accident when he was driving
the man she thought she wanted to marry asked her and she said yes, but she and the widower had developed feelings toward each other. she broke up the the first man but by then the renter had moved back to calif. but they both still loved each other so her sister wrote him a letter and he quit his job and moved back. they kissed and told each other they loved each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
First of all, this is a Christian romance that is clean and sprinkled with meaningful faith references. From this standpoint, it is a pleasant book with a sweet romantic story.
While I found the story and characters delightful, this story was a little too tame at times for my personal taste. At times, I found myself a little bored. It was not a major issue, but it did affect my overall enjoyment and interest in the story.
However, if readers want a story that is clean, sweet, tender, full of heart, and a quick summer read, this ticks off all the boxes. I can practically guarantee that this will be the perfect summer/vacation/beach read.
First of all, this is a Christian romance that is clean and sprinkled with meaningful faith references. From this standpoint, it is a pleasant book with a sweet romantic story.
While I found the story and characters delightful, this story was a little too tame at times for my personal taste. At times, I found myself a little bored. It was not a major issue, but it did affect my overall enjoyment and interest in the story.
However, if readers want a story that is clean, sweet, tender, full of heart, and a quick summer read, this ticks off all the boxes. I can practically guarantee that this will be the perfect summer/vacation/beach read.
December 10, 2021
The setting for this novel created a very vivid image in my mind of how peaceful it would be to live by a lake and be able to walk paths around it and to it. Robin had a great situation with the lake house. Matt was really down and out when he first appeared. It was a great story of how people can help others through bad times if we let them in. Robin did that for Matt without either of them realizing it until Robin's grandmother had her stroke and Robin left to go to Virginia. Matt left before Robin came back so both did not share their feelings with each other. I thought it would take forever for them to come together but the book did a great job with the twists and turns it made for them to find each other. Nice Christian read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2021
Robin's Dilemma
After the condo that Robin and her Mother shared burned down, Robin decided to go back to the family lake house in Georgia. Her Mother, on the other hand, decided to go and stay with her Mother and sister.
But Robin 's Mother had already rented the lake house to a tenant for the next six months. The man would be on a sabbatical. However Robin could live in the Loft apartment with the wonderful light where she could draw and paint to her heart's desire. She also wanted to pick up her former romance with Caleb. She was so excited to see him again.
Life at the lake is good on so many levels. Sometimes life's problems creep in so unexpectedly as they did for Robin.
After the condo that Robin and her Mother shared burned down, Robin decided to go back to the family lake house in Georgia. Her Mother, on the other hand, decided to go and stay with her Mother and sister.
But Robin 's Mother had already rented the lake house to a tenant for the next six months. The man would be on a sabbatical. However Robin could live in the Loft apartment with the wonderful light where she could draw and paint to her heart's desire. She also wanted to pick up her former romance with Caleb. She was so excited to see him again.
Life at the lake is good on so many levels. Sometimes life's problems creep in so unexpectedly as they did for Robin.
June 27, 2019
I had a hard time with "Refuge at Pine Lake". The premise looked promising; alas, this was not the book for me.
Robin came across as self-centered and immature. I actually thought she was in high school until a passing comment alerted me that she was a recent college graduate.
Her mom appeared in the beginning, but quickly disappeared, waved off the scene as Robin "exerted her independence" and insisted on staying at the lake, even with a new tenant.
The plot also felt weak to me. I didn't feel a compelling urge toward or likability of the characters to keep reading about how they passed their days at the lake.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Robin came across as self-centered and immature. I actually thought she was in high school until a passing comment alerted me that she was a recent college graduate.
Her mom appeared in the beginning, but quickly disappeared, waved off the scene as Robin "exerted her independence" and insisted on staying at the lake, even with a new tenant.
The plot also felt weak to me. I didn't feel a compelling urge toward or likability of the characters to keep reading about how they passed their days at the lake.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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