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Restoration #2

The Winter Wedding

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“Will you marry me?” From the moment Stephen Pierce asks the question, he and Tamar Johnson’s lives spiral out of control… Tamar Johnson has had enough scandal to last ten lifetimes. Her reluctant claim to fame as the infamous woman in a viral video of her losing her virginity on prom night was shameful enough to send the preacher’s daughter into hiding for twelve years. Now she’s back in the public eye dealing with one scandalous and painful situation after the next and praying the secret she’s kept won’t be the one to finally destroy her and the people she loves. Life’s been good for NFL’s darling Stephen Pierce. But now the superstar running back’s problems are catching up with him. Tamar Johnson said yes to his marriage proposal, but he still can’t get a read on her feelings. His life off the field gets messier as he once again becomes the target of media coverage and paparazzi photographs. A trashy reality television show has everyone wondering if he’s the celibate Christian man he’s claimed to be all these years. When a tragedy happens, Stephen is challenged in ways he never expected. Will he stand strong in the face of adversity, or will a crisis of faith reveal who he really is to himself and his fans?

415 pages, Paperback

Published March 8, 2019

94 people are currently reading
68 people want to read

About the author

Rhonda McKnight

42 books796 followers
Even as she pursued degrees in Textile Technology, Organizational Leadership and finally, Adult Education, Rhonda McKnight’s love for books and desire to write stories was always in the back of her mind and in the forefront of her heart. Rhonda loves reading and writing stories that touch the heart of women through complex plots and interesting characters in crisis. She writes from the comfort of her South Carolina home with black tea, potato chips and chocolate on hand. At her feet sits a snappy mixed breed dog. She can be reached at her website at www.rhondamcknight.com and on social media at www.facebook.com/booksbyrhonda www.twitter.com/rhondamcknight www.instagram.com/authorrhondamcknight

Rhonda taking pics with readers.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Michelle .
83 reviews7 followers
May 19, 2019
Let me start off by saying , GOD where are these men that Rhonda creates ? First Ethan Wright , now Stephen Pierce .... Whew this book had me up & down . GOD is real , True Love is real . Redemption is Real . Restoration is Real & last but not least Forgiveness is real . Tamar & Stephan story brought out so many things to be looked at & admired . Love covers a multitude of Sins. I loved every character except his messy Momma Donna Pierce . Aunt Joe is a jewel . I want to say so much but don’t want to give the story away . It’s a tear jerker for sure & it will make you reevaluate your prayer life & relationship with GOD .
Profile Image for Whit.
3,641 reviews51 followers
July 13, 2024
Awesome page turner!

Tamar Johnson is fierce in her determination to confront her past in order to do her job.
I admire Tamar for standing up for herself against all those narrow-minded "Christians". She lets Stephen know that forgiveness is not easy, and what goes around comes around. I love the scripture verses that gave the evidence for this.

Will Stephen be so forgiving when he discovers exactly what Tamar had to do, in order to survive, while she was gone for 12 long years?
205 reviews5 followers
March 8, 2019
Stephen and Tamar are back

I was so excoted when I read this book was coming put. It did not disappoint. This book brought out all my emotions. I was happy. I was sad. I was frustrated. Stephen and Tamar are one of my favorite couples and I love the fact that God was all up and through this book. Rhonda Mcknight has an anointing all over her writing and you can clearly tell that Lord speak through her. I never gey tired of her wtiting. Bravo Miss Mcknight on another great book
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,943 reviews13 followers
Currently reading
August 2, 2019
At last!

All those years apart but finally Tamar and Stephen got their happily ever after! What a beautiful romance. I wanted to smack Tamar at times for being selfish and scary, as well as Donna for being overbearing! Overall a great read looking for !more in the future!
Profile Image for Cherie l brown.
791 reviews
January 14, 2023
Now this story is a piece. The author is an excellent story teller. This novel deals with the harmful side of cyber bullying. Tamar, is an excellent runner. If she literally ran in foot races likes she runs from life, she would be a certified Olympian. But every runner has to slow down at some point. That point has come, and she has to face the ppl and her past. This story really touches bec Tamar suffered severe harm and not many folks seem to understand. Despite being a “runner”, she has backbone too. Both Tamar and Stephen had to stand firm with Stephen’s wanna be upper crust mother. In real life, thank God for the Aunt Josefina’s in our lives. I thought this was a novel of girl next door finding love with old school boy that has now achieved NFL success, but it deals with pertinent issues of today.
Profile Image for Rhonda McKnight.
Author 42 books796 followers
Read
July 12, 2024
Tamar Johnson is evolving:

Six months ago, I was living my life as Anne Ferguson, a nonessential features writer at a small magazine. I’d been hiding for 12 years. Could I have continued that way for the rest of my life? I think I could have, but if I had I would be a victim, roadkill that no one cared about or even buried. Now, I was becoming someone who had something to say. Someone who might change the course of a young woman’s life.
36 reviews1 follower
August 13, 2024
“Finally brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind and live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11
In “The Winter Wedding,” author Rhonda McKnight hooks readers into an intense, love-hate, poignant, contrite, convicting, façade-peeling story of restoration. You can’t restore anything that has never been together in the first place.

Tamar Johnson and Stephen Pierce are inseparable as children, but scandal later rips them apart. She loses not only her virginity on prom night, but also the covering of her father; a pastor, when that intimate moment goes viral and her identity is revealed and reviled. McKnight craftily weaves through a marathon of shame, redemption, unforgiveness, spite, secrets and faith. Tamar has run from her past for 12 years. Stephen is a celebrated NFL running back. The taint of shame passes over him. Tamar needs God to restore the joy of her salvation as she wrestles with “Saint Stephen’s” renewed vow of love for her. Of course, if you love romance, you’ll root for the embers to rise from the ashes as a glowing flame. Still, there are other characters whose personalities are so vivid, it’s easy to imagine who should portray them in an on-screen version of “The Winter Wedding.”

When Stephen faces his own Job-like experience, will he remain steadfast or will his armor prove faulty? Will Tamar ever be able to believe according to Isaiah 61:7a, “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion”? Is there a difference between a secret and a lie? So many challenges on the journey to restoration. Rhonda McKnight demonstrates once again her gift for edifying Christian fiction and for keeping readers enthralled. Perhaps she’s a spiritual collaborator with Kelontae Gavin [“No Ordinary Worship”]—he sings and she writes, “So, I’m going to give it all I have in this moment.” You’ll immensely enjoy all that she gives in “The Winter Wedding.”


Profile Image for Shannan Harper.
2,449 reviews28 followers
June 7, 2019
The long awaited sequel of The Winter reunion was finally released and I couldn't wait to dive into it. The book picks up where the previous book ends, but as always, there is more drama and secrets yet to be revealed. Between those secrets, Stephen and Tamar have to decide if they wish to move forward or say this is not for them. This book truly ministered to me. Especially the part when Stephen and Tamar's Father are talking after a situation happens to Stephen and he says,

"Son, it's easy to praise Him and talk about His goodness when you're up. It's easy to act like the Golden Boy when it's all good. People aren't impressed by that. Can Stephen Pierce still walk through this locker room and around all this equipment with his busted leg and say God is good. Though he slay me, yet will I trust him." (Of course this is just a part of what was said. You'll have to read the book to see the rest of it)

I could only say ouch after reading that. Rhonda truly has a gift of ministering to God's people through literature. Not only will this book minister to you, it will take you through emotionally. You will laugh, you will cry, and there are certain characters that you will just not like. this was just a phenomenal read, and I truly can't wait for the next part in this series.
Profile Image for Cassandra Haywood.
326 reviews
May 20, 2019
What God Has For Us.

I love this second book in this series. The way the author wrote a strong male character Stephen Pierce who was not ashamed to share his faith and belief in God and God’s Word. Stephen also lived a godly life before his football teammates, family and friends. Tamar Johnson who Stephen has loved from when they were small children growing up together.
Tamar had a secret she was keeping from her father and Stephen from a result of a video sex tape of her and Stephen that was leaked online.
I could feel the emotions of the characters of love, fear, forgiveness, anger, caring and blaming. I was on a real emotional rollercoaster especially with Tamar kept finding excuses to reveal her secret or not. Also Stephen mother Donna Pierce was a unforgiving, don’t want to let the apron strings go and selfish mother.
I love this author’s books and I look forward to reading the next book by her. I highly recommend this book especially if you love reading a Christian Fiction romance clean book with lessons of God’s Word for our lives.
Cassandra H.
Profile Image for Danyelle Scroggins.
Author 147 books135 followers
June 6, 2019
The Winter Wedding was the perfect carry over from The Winter Reunion. You found how the devastation of a lie or an untold truth can easily hinder you from embracing the life you desire. I believe that the author set out in this book to show how a problem mended is not always a problem fixed.
She also shows within the pages of both books how a decision to sin can end up costing you a lifetime of guilt, pain, and shame. I love how this book implies that when you are uncovered in your actions, it ties God's hands to keep you fully protected. You also get the prime example of how you can try to fix a situation the wrong way or using wickedness and it backfires. So one of the lessons that stood out to me is...You can never right a wrong with a wrong.
I read book one and two, back to back, and was adamant about seeing what the end would bring.
This two book series would be a good read for church book clubs or even pre-teen Christian youth groups. I'm definitely sharing both as a Christmas gift to the teenagers in my congregation.
16 reviews
March 27, 2019
God's love sustains us

I couldn't put this book down once I started to read it. I struggled in the beginning with Tamar's character, but in the end I was able to extend to get the same grace God gives to me every day. I was touched by the scriptures Rhonda McKnight chose. I felt the Holy Spirit guiding her while she wrote this book. I waited a long time for this book to come out ever since she wrote Winter Reunion. I was not disappointed. She has done it again. I pray for God to bless Ms. McKnight and continue to give her wisdom to keep writing. I am looking forward to Winter Baby. I learned that God does not allow trials in our lives to punish us, but to help us to grow.
Profile Image for ShayBooks.
801 reviews17 followers
May 14, 2019
Worth The Wait

The Winter Wedding was worth the wait. Tamar and Stephen have reconnected and have decided to give their relationship another try after the viral video but that is not the end of scandal for those two, they are once again in the public eye and Tamar has a secret that may end their relationship for good and hurt all the people she love.

The book was exceptionally good, it ministered to me, it made me laugh and cry. This was a page turned and I enjoyed every page of it. The scriptures in the end was a very good bonus. I am looking foward to the next book in the series . I highly recommend The Restoration Series you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Shae.
67 reviews
December 30, 2019
Following the voice within

The sequel to Winter Reunion was packed with a lot of stories and the main themes forgiveness, healing, and hope. Christians are imperfect. At what cost, can bitterness and hurt destroy a person? These characters all face some issues in their faith. Tamar and Stephen are back and their love is tested with fame, secrets, exes, manipulation, etc. Will love conquers all? You will cry, smile, laugh, and get upset. Another great read!

I enjoyed this book because this story is relevant to certain matters in my life. I was proud of how Tamar listened to God and was able move towards her calling.
81 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2019
Rhonda Mcknight has done it again

I was going through some very very rough time in my life when my twin sister passed. Someone gave me your book and told me to read it and when I was done ask myself if I still felt alone. This book reached my in so many ways. Letting go of the past, angry, doubting God. Your book had scriptures that hit me like never before and I stopped doubting because I knew I was not alone. Tamara is an encouraging character.

And leaning on God for direction is what got her through all that was meant for evil. THIS BOOK WAS TOO GOOD!!!!
8 reviews
April 14, 2019
Meant To Be

This is an excellent story dealing with forgiveness, faith, and trusting God's plan. Tamar and Stephen were destined to be together. Circumstances and lack of communication kept them apart for 12 years. Once they decided trust God, they were able to practice forgiveness and come together in love. Awesome story. One I started reading, I could not stop until I finished the book.
24 reviews
December 26, 2019
Wow right on time.

I was BLESSED above measure, WONDERFUL. This world is so full of hatred and it's so NOT right. Hurting people, destroying lives, destroying families, and not caring, this isn't God's will!!!! LOVING your neighbor as yourself is His will. Rhonda BLESSED above measure. Don't stop blessing us with God's Word to your heart and hands to our ears.THANK GOD FOR YOU.
Profile Image for Tammy Chaney.
83 reviews
July 4, 2019
Captivating!

I so love 💕 this story!!! So many revelations and themes! Forgiveness, Healing, Love to name a few! I love that the author really took her time to develop each character and didn’t rush the story! I love the prayers by the characters and how the author skillfully weaved The Word of God throughout! This was clearly birthed in prayer! I love it!
Profile Image for Andrea L. Griggs.
33 reviews7 followers
July 8, 2019
Another job well done!

Reading books by Rhonda McKnight is always a pleasure. I think that she has a way of capturing every emotion for her character's and that makes for a wonderful love story. This book gave me the hope and the faith that Stephen and Tamar had, and I can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Robinett Versey.
223 reviews
September 3, 2019
A Godsend

Dynamic, captivating, soulful, and a total blessing. I highly recommend e every
book written by Rhonda. She touches my heart with all scriptures, wise decisions
making, and a true man of God portrayed through Stephen. I love this novel and
my friends will too. Thanks Rhonda and I am eagerly waiting for that winter baby.
4 reviews
October 4, 2019
Rhonda Does it Again!!!

I really loved this story of faith, testing, redemption, and triumph!! I’ve been reading Rhonda’s books since I was in high school. She definitely doesn’t disappoints. I love when I read Holy Spirit inspired literature. The lessons you take away from these stories are life changing!! I can’t wait for the ‘Winter Baby’. ♥️
Profile Image for Ruby Kat.
118 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2019
What A book😊

I couldn't put this book for a moment because I was all over the place emotionally with this book. Tamar I really understand why she held back although she was hurt she thought of him and his career. Stephen's faith kept him going he wanted to give up I'm so glad he talked to the pastor. To the author great book can't wait to read the third installment.
Profile Image for Latesha Kellam.
Author 3 books41 followers
April 17, 2020
This was excellent part 2 to the Restoration Series. I really enjoyed it. I love the way the author brings in aspects of every day life and the type of situations that are going on in this time period. Her use of scriptures to back up the storylines are well placed. I will definitely be reading Book 3 of this series.
1,243 reviews9 followers
September 22, 2021
Excellent read

Excellent read, I loved the characters and storyline. Tamar was scandalized as a teen. This trauma caused her to run from her hometown and family for over a decade with a secret. Stephen and, Tamar reunite and navigate their love through trials and tribulations to reach their forever.
Profile Image for Leslie Danielle.
26 reviews
January 8, 2025
God can make things new again

I LOVED this story. Everything about this was so well played out with the reality of how so many things can distract us from the gift that God has right in front of us. Soo good. The scripture references were so good to my soul. Such a great reminder that God is faithful and works ALL things together for our good.
Profile Image for Marcena Hooks.
91 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2025
Book 2 of Rhonda’s Restoration series is a hit! I loved the growth and development of Stephen and Tamar. Getting to know their son Isaiah together was a joy to read. This book has many themes: love, trust, forgiveness, healing and growth. It even deals with health issues. I loved the humor, especially from Tamar’s bestie Kim. Can’t wait to read book 3!
40 reviews
April 1, 2019
Very well written

Loved the storyline and in-depth portrayal of both their feelings. Made the story very real. I’m intrigued about what inspired the story.

I enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to Kim and Clyde’s story.
Profile Image for LAVAHN D.
3 reviews
May 21, 2019
A great read.

As always, Rhonda Mcknights books bless me even thought they are fiction. Great writing. I love how she weaves God and His Word into her stories without being too preachy. I definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Asha Wade.
46 reviews
May 22, 2019
Awesome Love story

This book was a page turner from beginning to end! I truly enjoyed Stephen and Tamar’s love story unfold. Stephen helps me keep the faith that there are men that love God and consult him for everything! Great read!
17 reviews
June 7, 2019
The Winter Wedding
Rhonda McKnight

This was a great book. I need to read book 1, but this book was easy to follow and I’m excited about book 3. The storyline is good and definitely relatable. You’ll enjoy this story!

~Venita Alderman
16 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2019
Excellent book

The storyline picked up smoothly from book one. The book was written well and reflected the struggles that believers face when we try to control our lives. I loved the scriptures that were strategically placed throughout the book to support the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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