Echoes

Glenbrooke #3

by Robin Jones Gunn

Lauren is tending a broken heart and striving to finish her college degree when she connects with a man who goes by the initials K.C. In a sweet, old-fashioned manner their emails become a source of mutual encouragement.
An invitation to join some of the women of Glenbrooke on a lavish getaway provides Lauren with an unexpected choice. She can meet K.C.face to face or she can say nothing and let her life continue as it is.
Discover what happens when she listens to the voice that echoes in her heart.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Christian Romance, Chick Lit

276 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1996

About the author

ROBIN JONES GUNN has written more than 100 books with over 6.5 million copies sold worldwide. Her Father Christmas books have been made into three Hallmark Christmas movies. The timeless Christy Miller series now continues in Christy & Todd: The College Years, Married Years, Baby Years, and the Haven Maker series. Robin's novels and non-fiction works include Before Your Tween Daughter Becomes a Woman, Victim of Grace, Praying for Your Future Husband, and Before You Meet Your Future Husband co-authored with Tricia Goyer. Her books have received multiple awards and are a favorite with book clubs and study groups. Many of Robin's books are in eBook, audiobook, large print, and foreign editions. Robin does a weekly Podcast called "Women Worth Knowing" with Cheryl Brodersen. Robin and her husband have a grown son and daughter and live in California.

Reviews

[Rauna Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robin's books are so fun to read! This is a fun, light read for a rainy day when you don't want to get out of your pajamas. Making a cup of warm tea ahead of time is also a good idea so you won't have to move from your favorite comfy chair and can finish the book all the way through in one sitting. Light-hearted romance, good friends, and uber-clean so you can share with your teenage daughter without cringing; good job, Mrs. Gunn! ;D

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, me. Echoes is by far my favorite in the Glenbrooke series, although it is possibly the least plausible. It was the first Glenbrooke book I read and the one I have read the most over the last 7-10ish years. I am a sucker for a Browningesque storyline.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my favorite book in the Glenbrooke series. It seemed like a Christian version of the movie, You’ve Got Mail. Robin is so good at telling a story so that you are on the edge of your seat almost the whole time. I loved how Lauren grew closer to the Lord also. Very well done!

[Lia Burres · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a contemporary romance book.

Lauren's fiance picks NY over her and she starts thinking that everything is going wrong. Her brother comes to visit her and brings her a computer. Shortly after learning to use it, she finds herself a "penpal", KC. She knows very little about him. She knows that he's a Christian. She continues her online relationship with KC for about a year. Her emotions start becoming a roller coaster of chaos.
She begins to wonder if the relationship would ever work in real life as it does online. Does this seem to be the person that she's meant to spend the rest of her life with?

Read and find out!

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

July 2022 re-read.
The Internet/email technology was dated when I first read this in 2001, and it is incredibly dated and bordering on historical fiction at this point! There is also an author’s note in the back emphasizing the danger of online dating. Dated technology aside, another sweet romance from RJG. Holds up better on the re-read than some others in this series I’ve revisited.

July 2012 re-read.
I adored the Glenbrooke series when I was a teen, and they definitely hold up years later. Love the way the character from different stories often have cameos :)

[Hope · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like epistolary novels so I enjoyed the e-mail exchanges between KC and Wren. But the novel has the faults of much Christian fiction: insecure heroine and tacked on sermons. (I don't mind characters who pray and talk about God, but few Christian authors succeed in making it seem natural.)

Some have mentioned the nostalgic aspects of the story that takes place at the advent of personal computers and e-mail, but I was intrigued by the fact that parts of the storyline could only have happened before 9/11 - when airplane trips were much less meticulously screened.

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deffentallly my fvorite glenbrooke book! it was soooo good, the ending was the best of them all! :) It was kinda annoying how she wouldnt talk to KC, but it all turned out fine!

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, this series delivers.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tad dated, but nice to return to Glenbrook.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Contemporary Christian fiction book actually takes place at the beginning of the Internet and computer usage by the average person. I myself spent my younger years with an electric phone with a physical cord! My 1st introduction to email was Juno way back around the same time this book was published! I really enjoyed reading this book for the first time...but a couple of my teen daughters had previously read this book multiple times each! I don't know who enjoyed the process more: sharing 1-2 word "clues" with my daughters to let them know where I was at in the book (yes, physical copy!), or when I would share a suspicion and they'd give each other knowing looks (I was wrong about 1, but correct about another)? Regardless, it was definitely different to read an adult Christian fiction book that my daughters had read before me! (I did introduce them to my personal collection of the original Christy Miller series of books a few years ago.) I'm looking forward to reading more of the Glenbrooke series, and sharing with my daughters my progress! I would definitely recommend reading this series with older teens and above, together!

[Misti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lauren, reeling from a broken engagement, strikes up an accidental friendship with a man on the Internet (this story takes place in the early days, when online dating wasn’t a thing). Should she meet him, or will he turn out to be a predator?

When I was younger, this was my favorite entry in this series, and maybe it still is. Lauren is probably the character I most identify with, anxious and bookish as she is. This time through I found myself a little annoyed with certain choices she makes, and I could see the weak points in the writing and plotting (the last part of the book relies on a major coincidence, and for the first time in many rereads, I found myself bothered by how unlikely the whole scenario was). Still a good book, enjoyable if you like inspirational romance and have enjoyed others by this author.

[Hannah B]

Honestly I was very not down to read this book based on the description, but it’s in the middle of the series and I’ve been enjoying all Robin Jones Gunn’s other books so I went for it! & I’m glad I did - it was a very enjoyable read and felt a lot more true-to-life (if life was still a rom-com) than I anticipated.
I was shocked to find I liked it a lot better than Teri’s story (book 2) and really enjoyed how much more the previous characters were woven in this one. Can’t wait for book 4 to come from the library!!

[Lena Morrison · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t remember much about this book, but I remember liking it.

[Renee Fluet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredible reminder that nothing I do can get in the way of God’s plan for me. This is a sweet, light-hearted read yet it mirrors God’s providential love.

[Lydia Therese · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lol this book was really stupid

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will always stand out to me as the first I read in the Glenbrooke series, which wasn't a positive. I had no idea it was a series and walked away from the end going "But there's absolutely no resolution!" That was an Amazon.com review I had to apologize for later, that's for sure.

In reality, it was a good read. Sure, it shares the predictability of most "romance" novels, but Gunn does such a good job creating deeply developed characters that you're still engrossed. This is also a pretty funny read in modern times given the online aspect of the book.

Fans of the rest of the Glenbrooke series will definitely enjoy. Yet it is loosely connected enough that it can be read as a stand-alone. Just realize you'll have to read later Glenbrooke books to learn what happens with Lauren!

[V ❣️ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this book tucked away on a shelf in a used bookstore, and the cover caught my eye. And upon reading the back, I was hooked. Written in '96 and about two people falling in love over email? Sign me up.
But, I was very disappointed finding out shortly after reading that this was a Christian book. My mistake for not looking at reviews first, and I'm not knocking Christian fiction, buuuuuut, I found myself skipping through a lot of Bible verses. And not to mention Mindy's extremely obnoxious dialogue. Hey, I'm not judging anyone for what they believe in, but is preaching on an elevator appropriate?
I *thought* that Lauren and KC's online relationship would be center stage, but in reality this book is focused almost solely on Lauren and her finding herself. Oh, and her friends throwing Bible verses and God at her as the only way to do that.
Tbh, I LIKED Lauren, I really did. But her friends-especially Mindy-were all a little too overbearing and wouldn't let Lauren think for herself. It was always, "there's a verse for that" or "just talk to God and everything will be fine." Super unrealistic, and disappointing.
And then we get to Lauren and KC's relationship.....
It was super cute and charming online minus KC also being annoyingly preachy. I wish there were more email exchanges we got to read and DEFINITELY wish getting to see them meet in person was drawn out. It was sadly relegated to the last ten pages of the book. I mean, they conversed for over a year and we only got a handful of exchanges between them and then when they met it was just thrown at you at the end and with such little spark. UGH.
It could have been so cute, but I guess it just wasn't for me. I will be donating this book so that maybe someone else will have a chance to read it and gain something that I didn't.

[Linda Klager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lauren dated a man and thought they would get married. He found out he needed to move to New York, and Lauren did not want to move there, so they broke up. Lauren was conflicted—did she do the right thing? Her dear friend, Mindy, was a very strong Christian and said God would lead her to the right man of her dreams.

Meanwhile, Lauren's brother showed up and introduced Lauren to email. He set up a computer for her and showed her how to navigate along the web. This led to a neat friendship with KC. As time went by, Lauren and KC sent many letters to each other. Lauren wanted to meet KC but was not sure of doing that.

Lauren was lonely and bought a sweet kitten to cuddle. Lauren worked at a bank with Mindy, but she wanted to pursue a career as an English Lit. Teacher.

I loved how Lauren's journey brought her back to God. This led to fulfillment in her life. I was kept in suspense until the end of the book and was very happy about how this story ended.

I am looking forward to reading more in this wonderful series!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay I love Robin Jones Gunn. She’s one of my all time favorite authors. Everything she’s written that I’ve read is good. Here’s my beef with the Glenbrooke series as a whole. It’s in my opinion predictable and each book is just a repeat of the ones previous with different characters. I do enjoy the crossover characters that’s cool. But every book girl is in love with a guy things don’t work out they break up girl is in love triangle with 2 guys tries to get herself to fall in love with one but the other is always there and is open with his feelings but she won’t admit hers. Things don’t workout between her and one guy the other dude proposes she rejects but then realizes she’s wrong and she’s in love they get married happily ever after. It’s pretty early on in the book you can tell oh Lauren is gonna be with Kenton aka KC. Same with Kyle and Jessica Teri and Gordon and so on. Other than that fact I think they’re great books and the author is great

[Mallory · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was odd for me that this series starts off in this nice little town of Glenbrooke, begins introducing us to various characters, and then in the next two books shifts abruptly to spend most of the time in Hawaii and Nashville, respectively. I'm not sure what to expect next. I did like this book for the most part. I related to Lauren and the feelings and fears she experiences. It surprised me that Gunn choose to feature a relationship developing electronically, considering how new the internet still was. Bet she never saw Christian Mingle coming when she wrote this! Ah, it took me back to the days when the internet was basic and simple. The ending, once again though, felt too inevitable and predictable.

[Denise Kettering · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is dated in the tech that it uses, but it is a cute premise. Lauren Phillips' life is falling apart and her brother's remedy was to give her a computer and introduce her in a chat room. Lauren accidentally emails the man, KC, when she has computer problems, which leads to an email correspondence between the two that draws them closer together. When faced with the possibility of meeting in person, she has to decide whether to follow through or not, particularly when her friends want to set her up with someone else. Overall, good, easy-to-read romance that resembles "You've Got Mail."

[Wendy Macdonald · Rating 3 out of 5]

Parts of this cozy and sweet romance novel I enjoyed more than others. But because there were quite a few spots where I skimmed the pages (because I was bored), I didn't feel right giving it a 4 (3.5 yes, but not a 4). The main characters were likable, which is why I wanted to see how their journey ended. Readers who prefer a leisurely pace will enjoy this book. And there is a plot twist that will hook fast-paced readers. Robin Jones Gunn does a wonderful job making us care and curious about the main characters and their outcomes.

[Audrey · Rating 2 out of 5]

The only reason I am giving this two stars is because the book was slow, in my opinion, for at least the first half of it and I felt no connection with the characters. The book was ok, but out of the two other books in this series that I have read the first book was my favorite.
It was a clean book, like all of the Robin Jones Gunn books I've read. An easy read. Plenty of faith content. To be honest, I feel kinda bad to give this a low rating because I love this author's books. Just know it was not because of any content. At least I can now move on with the series...

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another personal note: I also related a lot with Lauren in the way she analyzed and over thought things and in her fear of rejection. Also in her feeling lost and not sure what she wants to do with her life. She had to come to a place where she realized that even when others abandoned or rejected her, God never would and that He calls us by name. He wants us and pursues us just as we are. It’s a lesson I keep learning. Also, KC was a dream guy with his literary knowledge and his way with words as they wrote letters like the Brownings! You’ve got mail meets Christy miller. 😉

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I read Book #4 first, then book #1 and now book #3. What in the world? I don't know what I'm doing.

Anywho, this book was fun b/c it was set in the early 90's when online relationships were not a thing, and the internet was a new and unknown place! It was fun to read about--it felt old-fashioned and modern at the same time. :)

Of course, I love everything that Robin writes. And this relationship between Lauren and KC is one of my faves!

[TheModestMillennial · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay for maturing writers! This episode of the Glenbrooke series is the best so far. Smooth writing, wonderful characters, and a great plot made this book a wonderful read. It was fun to see Wren grow throughout the story and finally come into her own. KC is absolutely perfect, and you can't help but fall in love with him a little.

[Debbie Sue · Rating 1 out of 5]

This could have been a cute book like another youve got mail. unfortunately it was not. They have too many scenes that are geared to showing that Lauren is some kind of accident magnet and they just dont make sense with the story. like the one where she spills taco salad with guacomole on herself. Plus she totally over reacted in the later ones over the Kenton that she doesnt know.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down... well I had to due to sleep. But it was so good. At first I was confused because other than it being Teri’s roommate, it did not take place in Glenbrooke. But Robin Jones Gunn sure is painting an amazing picture of this town. I can’t wait until I’ve finished the series and see all the different characters and how they develop.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite RJG books. It was fun to reminisce about the early days of email through this story, and poor Lauren truly was a disaster magnet in fun ways. Her dating trials and tribulations took me back to my single days, and who can help but love the correspondence between her and KC? Just a fun read with some lovely truth.

[Kayla H | Mom Devours Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is so much to love about this book! I love the met online/ penpal trope; this book has that and more. Because this book was written in the late 90s when the internet was new, it was a neat look back at how much things have changed since then. It also took me back to that time in my own life. I so appreciate the nostalgia!