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Road to Refuge #2
A Gift to Cherish
When Daisy Riley arrives in Refuge, Wyoming to live with her brother and his family, she intends to stay forever. A victim of violence in Los Angeles, Daisy craves stability, peace of mind, and safety. Her hope comes true when she lands a job as a personal assistant to Miss Joan Prescott, the owner of Cottonwood Acres, a historic ranch that once served as the set for a famous TV show. A retired college professor, Miss Joan has secrets and stories of her own, including a very unusual project that requires Daisy’s skills.
Rafe Donovan, a cop from Cincinnati, is haunted by a recurring nightmare about the death of his high school sweetheart and his failure to save her. Because of the nightmares, Rafe takes leave from the police department and seeks psychological help. He finds shelter in Refuge, where he pounds nails for his brother’s construction business. But he has no desire to stay in Wyoming and plans to return to Ohio as soon as possible.
When he finds Daisy Riley stranded late at night with a flat tire, Rafe is impressed by her courage. Daisy is equally impressed by him. Together they navigate the road to love—one complicated by the arrival of Daisy’s troubled best friend, online dating, and the impossible obstacle of 1,600 miles between her home and his.
AUTHOR NOTE: "This story contains mature subject matter. It's about our current dating culture, including the risks of online dating. It also looks at the social mores of 1970s and how those values impact today's women."
Rafe Donovan, a cop from Cincinnati, is haunted by a recurring nightmare about the death of his high school sweetheart and his failure to save her. Because of the nightmares, Rafe takes leave from the police department and seeks psychological help. He finds shelter in Refuge, where he pounds nails for his brother’s construction business. But he has no desire to stay in Wyoming and plans to return to Ohio as soon as possible.
When he finds Daisy Riley stranded late at night with a flat tire, Rafe is impressed by her courage. Daisy is equally impressed by him. Together they navigate the road to love—one complicated by the arrival of Daisy’s troubled best friend, online dating, and the impossible obstacle of 1,600 miles between her home and his.
AUTHOR NOTE: "This story contains mature subject matter. It's about our current dating culture, including the risks of online dating. It also looks at the social mores of 1970s and how those values impact today's women."
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2020
53 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Bylin
48 books495 followersIf someone had told me twenty years ago that I'd be the author of 20 books, I'd have fallen off my chair. I’m still amazed to see my novels on Goodreads, Amazon, and occasionally the shelves at Walmart.
More than anything, I delight in telling stories that tackle tough issues with faith and compassion. One my most challenging books, Together With You, won the RWA FHL Readers Choice Award for Best Contemporary Romance. I was equally thrilled when The Two of Us made it to the shelves in Target as part of the "Target Recommends" program.
Before writing contemporaries, I wrote westerns for Harlequin Historical and Love Inspired Historical. The LIHs are clean reads. The Harlequin Historicals (no brown banner like the LIHs) were written for the mainstream market. They have Christian themes but gritty content. Some readers won’t care for the language and love scenes. (If you want to know why I wrote them, the story is on my website.)
My two most recent books are independently published. When He Found Me and A Gift to Cherish are a mix of romance and women’s fiction and part of The Road to Refuge series. These stories are particularly close to my heart.
My husband and I now make our home in Lexington, Kentucky, but I’m a California girl at heart. I hope you enjoy my books! For more information, visit https://www.victoriabylin.com
More than anything, I delight in telling stories that tackle tough issues with faith and compassion. One my most challenging books, Together With You, won the RWA FHL Readers Choice Award for Best Contemporary Romance. I was equally thrilled when The Two of Us made it to the shelves in Target as part of the "Target Recommends" program.
Before writing contemporaries, I wrote westerns for Harlequin Historical and Love Inspired Historical. The LIHs are clean reads. The Harlequin Historicals (no brown banner like the LIHs) were written for the mainstream market. They have Christian themes but gritty content. Some readers won’t care for the language and love scenes. (If you want to know why I wrote them, the story is on my website.)
My two most recent books are independently published. When He Found Me and A Gift to Cherish are a mix of romance and women’s fiction and part of The Road to Refuge series. These stories are particularly close to my heart.
My husband and I now make our home in Lexington, Kentucky, but I’m a California girl at heart. I hope you enjoy my books! For more information, visit https://www.victoriabylin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 12, 2020
3.5 Stars
A GIFT TO CHERISH is one of those stories that blends a past romance with a present one as one woman befriends another who is just figuring out how to live and trust in the God she believes in. It full of imperfect characters who have learned or are learning from their pasts while trying to find the right future, and one led by God. The characters are very genuine and the romance is sweet, making for an overall enjoyable story.
I have to just state that this book was good and I liked the characters in all their messiness, but it was also quite tough to read in places and I didn't always connect with this book as much as I was hoping to. In places it was like watching a freight train and knowing where it's slowly going and not being able to stop it. Both Rafe and Daisy had demons in their pasts, as did Miss Joan and Chelsea. Miss Joan had the wisdom of her age and a lesson already learned, making her the perfect person to help Daisy through some of her confusion. Chelsea was still a loose cannon, as far as I was concerned, and one I thought might bring danger back into Daisy's life. I leaned a bit towards Daisy cutting her loose because she didn't need the extra stress and risk after what she had already been through.
Then there was the main romance between Daisy and Rafe. Daisy at least had already had her faith crisis, so she was good in that way, but she was still learning to trust God and see that maybe what she thought was her future might be different in His hands. Rafe was working through some difficult things in his past, especially as a cop who had to function on the job and not let that past affect his job. I loved that both Rafe and Daisy were completely blindsided by each other. They find attraction and a chance at love between them. It wasn't in either of their plans, but someone else had a different path for them if they would choose it. Thank goodness that there was a sweet HEA ending that made the rough patches worth the struggle and challenges these characters faced!
I did feel like the story dragged on. I think the secondary story with Miss Joan wasn't my favorite part, but then also Rafe and Daisy's romance just kind of felt stretched out for me and with a chunk of the story dealing with Chelsea. At 80 percent through I was ready for the story to be done, which is very unusual for me with this author. Maybe it wasn't the right story for me to read right now as I just didn't connect with it like I usually do with Bylin's stories, and like I did with her last book.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a rough read with a bit of an emotional roller-coaster. The characters were likable, the faith aspect strong and inspiring, and the romance was sweet. Overall, it's one I'd recommend to Christian contemporary romance or women's fiction readers.
Content: References to assault, date-rape drugs, an affair, but no specific details.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
A GIFT TO CHERISH is one of those stories that blends a past romance with a present one as one woman befriends another who is just figuring out how to live and trust in the God she believes in. It full of imperfect characters who have learned or are learning from their pasts while trying to find the right future, and one led by God. The characters are very genuine and the romance is sweet, making for an overall enjoyable story.
I have to just state that this book was good and I liked the characters in all their messiness, but it was also quite tough to read in places and I didn't always connect with this book as much as I was hoping to. In places it was like watching a freight train and knowing where it's slowly going and not being able to stop it. Both Rafe and Daisy had demons in their pasts, as did Miss Joan and Chelsea. Miss Joan had the wisdom of her age and a lesson already learned, making her the perfect person to help Daisy through some of her confusion. Chelsea was still a loose cannon, as far as I was concerned, and one I thought might bring danger back into Daisy's life. I leaned a bit towards Daisy cutting her loose because she didn't need the extra stress and risk after what she had already been through.
Then there was the main romance between Daisy and Rafe. Daisy at least had already had her faith crisis, so she was good in that way, but she was still learning to trust God and see that maybe what she thought was her future might be different in His hands. Rafe was working through some difficult things in his past, especially as a cop who had to function on the job and not let that past affect his job. I loved that both Rafe and Daisy were completely blindsided by each other. They find attraction and a chance at love between them. It wasn't in either of their plans, but someone else had a different path for them if they would choose it. Thank goodness that there was a sweet HEA ending that made the rough patches worth the struggle and challenges these characters faced!
I did feel like the story dragged on. I think the secondary story with Miss Joan wasn't my favorite part, but then also Rafe and Daisy's romance just kind of felt stretched out for me and with a chunk of the story dealing with Chelsea. At 80 percent through I was ready for the story to be done, which is very unusual for me with this author. Maybe it wasn't the right story for me to read right now as I just didn't connect with it like I usually do with Bylin's stories, and like I did with her last book.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a rough read with a bit of an emotional roller-coaster. The characters were likable, the faith aspect strong and inspiring, and the romance was sweet. Overall, it's one I'd recommend to Christian contemporary romance or women's fiction readers.
Content: References to assault, date-rape drugs, an affair, but no specific details.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
November 6, 2019
This is my newest book -- release date is 3/3/2020. I'm including it here because I've read it at least three times :) I figure it counts towards my 2019 Reading Challenge :)
January 6, 2020
'You tell other people to be brave all the time. I think it's your turn.'
Daisy Riley comes to Refuge, Wyoming to get away from the place of a violent attack. She knows that she must overcome her fears and this is a place to find safety, near her brother and his fiancé. She finds a great job and settles in. Then life throws another curve ball. Rafe Donovan is staying with his brother after having issues as a cop in Cincinnati. Rafe and Daisy come to care for each other, but Daisy has found a forever home in Refuge and Rafe has to go back to Ohio when his leave is up.
Victoria Bylin shares her heart in the second book of her Road to Refuge series. Life is not always each and bravery is not easy to come by when life doesn't work out the way you hoped. But we have a secure refuge (no pun intended) in Christ, the Solid Rock. And sometimes, what we hoped is the best for us is not what God thinks is the best for us. Our job is to relinquish our control to God. Well done! Recommended.
*My thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinion stated in this review is entirely my own.
Daisy Riley comes to Refuge, Wyoming to get away from the place of a violent attack. She knows that she must overcome her fears and this is a place to find safety, near her brother and his fiancé. She finds a great job and settles in. Then life throws another curve ball. Rafe Donovan is staying with his brother after having issues as a cop in Cincinnati. Rafe and Daisy come to care for each other, but Daisy has found a forever home in Refuge and Rafe has to go back to Ohio when his leave is up.
Victoria Bylin shares her heart in the second book of her Road to Refuge series. Life is not always each and bravery is not easy to come by when life doesn't work out the way you hoped. But we have a secure refuge (no pun intended) in Christ, the Solid Rock. And sometimes, what we hoped is the best for us is not what God thinks is the best for us. Our job is to relinquish our control to God. Well done! Recommended.
*My thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinion stated in this review is entirely my own.
December 28, 2022
A Gift to Cherish was an emotional story about healing, redemption, and trusting God’s direction and plan for our lives.
I liked this book. The author did a wonderful job layering the multiple POVs to illustrate how fallible humans are yet didn't neglect to shine a light on how much we are in need of a Savior - the realism of the key characters’ brokenness and mistakes made them easy to relate to while reflecting on the beauty of grace.
I actually enjoyed Joan’s story, most of all – the anticipation as her story was revealed in pieces, the caution of how our standards can bend to our desires when they are not biblically defined, and how grace is a gift that covers all our sins and mistakes.
The romance between the leads was sweet with a natural chemistry, but I didn’t emotionally connect it as much as I’d like – partly due to how faith is addressed in their dating relationship. In the story, Rafe is indifferent to God and Daisy is a Christian yet this issue never receives the attention it deserves. Alternatively, the hot button issue is naively excused and tiptoed around until circumstances become more tolerable - until then, a lot more emphasis is put on Rafe being a good man instead of a Christian. I was surprised and extremely disappointed by this.
The story also dragged a bit as well – perhaps due to the repetitiveness of the central conflict to the romance or how the climax didn’t build, but centered on an external factor outside of Rafe and Daisy’s relationship.
Regardless, this novel was enjoyable read, overall, with genuine emotion and grace.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I liked this book. The author did a wonderful job layering the multiple POVs to illustrate how fallible humans are yet didn't neglect to shine a light on how much we are in need of a Savior - the realism of the key characters’ brokenness and mistakes made them easy to relate to while reflecting on the beauty of grace.
I actually enjoyed Joan’s story, most of all – the anticipation as her story was revealed in pieces, the caution of how our standards can bend to our desires when they are not biblically defined, and how grace is a gift that covers all our sins and mistakes.
The romance between the leads was sweet with a natural chemistry, but I didn’t emotionally connect it as much as I’d like – partly due to how faith is addressed in their dating relationship. In the story, Rafe is indifferent to God and Daisy is a Christian yet this issue never receives the attention it deserves. Alternatively, the hot button issue is naively excused and tiptoed around until circumstances become more tolerable - until then, a lot more emphasis is put on Rafe being a good man instead of a Christian. I was surprised and extremely disappointed by this.
The story also dragged a bit as well – perhaps due to the repetitiveness of the central conflict to the romance or how the climax didn’t build, but centered on an external factor outside of Rafe and Daisy’s relationship.
Regardless, this novel was enjoyable read, overall, with genuine emotion and grace.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
April 15, 2020
Daisy Riley and Rafe Donovan are the main characters in A GIFT TO CHERISH. I didn't read the first book in this series but I understand Daisy was in that book. I did nor have a problem with reading this second book as a stand alone, though I would have known Daisy a little better had I read book one.
The romance between Daisy and Rafe is a sweet one, though they had their share of difficult issues. Both had a lot of baggage to work through, which made life difficult for them at times. Author Victoria Bylin isn't afraid to tackle very difficult issues, as she has in this book. Sometimes the reading is not easy, but dealing with harsh things never are. But I appreciate Ms. Bylin for writing about read life issues that are happening in real life today. It could be that this book can be of help to someone.
One if the issues she writes about is the underlying dangers of online relationships. This is something I've wondered about a lot, and I'm so glad to have read about the dangers in this book. There is so much going on here in this book, and I don't want to mention anything else. But I do want to mention the characters created to tell this story. They were so very real, and it was fun to live the story with these wonderful characters, and watch as they developed throughout the story. A story I didn't want to end. I kept reading slower and slower toward the end so I could savor every word! And I liked following the faith if Daisy and Rafe, though they had so many times that they struggled, but we all do at some point in out Christian lives. Even though these characters are fictional, we can learn a lot through them, if we only listen.
If you enjoy a good clean, Christian contemporary fiction, this is a really nice one to check out. I think you will love it was much as I did! A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The romance between Daisy and Rafe is a sweet one, though they had their share of difficult issues. Both had a lot of baggage to work through, which made life difficult for them at times. Author Victoria Bylin isn't afraid to tackle very difficult issues, as she has in this book. Sometimes the reading is not easy, but dealing with harsh things never are. But I appreciate Ms. Bylin for writing about read life issues that are happening in real life today. It could be that this book can be of help to someone.
One if the issues she writes about is the underlying dangers of online relationships. This is something I've wondered about a lot, and I'm so glad to have read about the dangers in this book. There is so much going on here in this book, and I don't want to mention anything else. But I do want to mention the characters created to tell this story. They were so very real, and it was fun to live the story with these wonderful characters, and watch as they developed throughout the story. A story I didn't want to end. I kept reading slower and slower toward the end so I could savor every word! And I liked following the faith if Daisy and Rafe, though they had so many times that they struggled, but we all do at some point in out Christian lives. Even though these characters are fictional, we can learn a lot through them, if we only listen.
If you enjoy a good clean, Christian contemporary fiction, this is a really nice one to check out. I think you will love it was much as I did! A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
April 15, 2020
A Gift to Cherish continues Daisy Riley's story, which began in When He Found Me. (The book does work as a stand-alone novel, but I think it holds more impact if you understand what Daisy went through in When He Found Me.) With her abuser behind bars, Daisy is starting over in Refuge, Wyoming. She quickly meets an amazing man (Rafe) and lands an amazing job working for Miss Joan, owner of an historic ranch. Then her troubled friend moves to town, and Daisy's path—job wise and relationship wise—becomes murky.
I enjoyed many things about this novel, but by far my favorite part was Miss Joan's story. This is really just a secondary plot, but I would've happily read an entire novel about her! I loved the way her story was slowly revealed, and I especially loved that the parts when she was remembering the past were written in first person—it just made me feel so connected to the story.
Daisy's story and Rafe's story were enjoyable separately, but I wasn't incredibly invested in their romance. In fact, when I had about 20 pages to go, the thought ran through my head that I would be just fine with them deciding to go their separate ways! (I won't spoil anything, but this is a romance, so you can probably guess how it ends ...)
I did really appreciate that human trafficking and the dangers of online dating were brought into the novel. And I also loved Miss Joan's brand of Christian feminism (I guess that's what you'd call it?).
Overall, I did enjoy this novel; I just didn't love it in the way I've loved some of this author's other novels. 3-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
I enjoyed many things about this novel, but by far my favorite part was Miss Joan's story. This is really just a secondary plot, but I would've happily read an entire novel about her! I loved the way her story was slowly revealed, and I especially loved that the parts when she was remembering the past were written in first person—it just made me feel so connected to the story.
Daisy's story and Rafe's story were enjoyable separately, but I wasn't incredibly invested in their romance. In fact, when I had about 20 pages to go, the thought ran through my head that I would be just fine with them deciding to go their separate ways! (I won't spoil anything, but this is a romance, so you can probably guess how it ends ...)
I did really appreciate that human trafficking and the dangers of online dating were brought into the novel. And I also loved Miss Joan's brand of Christian feminism (I guess that's what you'd call it?).
Overall, I did enjoy this novel; I just didn't love it in the way I've loved some of this author's other novels. 3-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
April 17, 2020
Bylin has given readers a story that will absolutely touch their heart. She has managed to deal with some very real and difficult issues in a way that doesn't make a reader feel uncomfortable, shows great character growth, and reminds readers of the greatest gift we have - the gift of prayer. Bylin weaves the true importance of prayer throughout the entire story in such a subtle yet powerful way - and that is just how I like the faith thread to be. Not preachy, just a natural part of the storyline.
I adored Daisy and Rafe. Both had things from the past that haunted them so to speak, and yet somehow they managed to come together and grow individually and as a couple. However, I have to tell you that our secondary character, Miss Joan, was who I found myself drawn to the most. From her devious match making side, to her incredibly difficult back story, she was just a welcome addition to this novel for me. I think it would be really cool to have a future novel just be able her, and her past. I know this book touches on it as a time slip, but I would love to see even more.
If you are looking for a second chances story that will speak to your heart, then this is the story for you. Highly recommend this book, well series actually! I always enjoy reading Bylin's stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I adored Daisy and Rafe. Both had things from the past that haunted them so to speak, and yet somehow they managed to come together and grow individually and as a couple. However, I have to tell you that our secondary character, Miss Joan, was who I found myself drawn to the most. From her devious match making side, to her incredibly difficult back story, she was just a welcome addition to this novel for me. I think it would be really cool to have a future novel just be able her, and her past. I know this book touches on it as a time slip, but I would love to see even more.
If you are looking for a second chances story that will speak to your heart, then this is the story for you. Highly recommend this book, well series actually! I always enjoy reading Bylin's stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 17, 2020
"Where she lived didn't matter nearly as much as why she lived. And that was to love and to serve others. Geography didn't matter to God - not one bit. He met people where they lived - on mountaintops and in gutters."
Victoria Bylin spins yet another wonderfully heart-breaking and redemptive contemporary romance in this second installment of Road to Refuge series. I'm relatively new to her writing and the first book in the series, When He Found Me, was my introduction to her books. This book brings Daisy, a broken woman on her path to discovering a full life in the small town of Refuge, together with Rafe, a city cop recuperating from PTSD with his brother in that same town. The town of Refuge is charming and lovely, the characters are down-to-earth and so lovable, the faith journeys of Daisy and Rafe are incredibly uplifting, and the issues addressed in the book will make you think some more about them once the book is finished.
The writing is fluid and the plot well-crafted. Daisy's boss Miss Joan has a voice in the story alongside Daisy and Rafe; Miss Joan's walk down memory lane to early 1970s is told in first person narrative which works really well to point out the pitfalls of looking for love in the wrong people and ties her experience together with what Daisy's friend goes through in the present time. The heartache and struggle are real in the characters' lives but their triumph through faith is even more real and edifying.
If you enjoy contemporary romance, you will definitely enjoy this one. Though it's book 2 in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I received a copy of the book from the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Victoria Bylin spins yet another wonderfully heart-breaking and redemptive contemporary romance in this second installment of Road to Refuge series. I'm relatively new to her writing and the first book in the series, When He Found Me, was my introduction to her books. This book brings Daisy, a broken woman on her path to discovering a full life in the small town of Refuge, together with Rafe, a city cop recuperating from PTSD with his brother in that same town. The town of Refuge is charming and lovely, the characters are down-to-earth and so lovable, the faith journeys of Daisy and Rafe are incredibly uplifting, and the issues addressed in the book will make you think some more about them once the book is finished.
The writing is fluid and the plot well-crafted. Daisy's boss Miss Joan has a voice in the story alongside Daisy and Rafe; Miss Joan's walk down memory lane to early 1970s is told in first person narrative which works really well to point out the pitfalls of looking for love in the wrong people and ties her experience together with what Daisy's friend goes through in the present time. The heartache and struggle are real in the characters' lives but their triumph through faith is even more real and edifying.
If you enjoy contemporary romance, you will definitely enjoy this one. Though it's book 2 in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I received a copy of the book from the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
March 18, 2020
It will be impossible to finish reading this book without tears in your eyes and sweet joy in your heart.
Victoria Bylin brings to us a story weaved around trusting God and the journeys of the wonderful characters from darkness to light.
It was hard not to love the characters and identify with them in their joys, struggles and triumph. I admired Daisy's strength and resilience. Life had not been fair to her but she thrived even in uncertainties and her conversion story was beautiful.
I loved Rafe from the moment he helped Daisy. I admired his patience and strength. Without Ms. Joan this book will be incomplete.
I saw faith, trust and totally reliance on God even when it doesn't make sense in the pages of this book. The settings of the book was wonderful.
I recommend it to everyone who loves a good story.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Victoria Bylin brings to us a story weaved around trusting God and the journeys of the wonderful characters from darkness to light.
It was hard not to love the characters and identify with them in their joys, struggles and triumph. I admired Daisy's strength and resilience. Life had not been fair to her but she thrived even in uncertainties and her conversion story was beautiful.
I loved Rafe from the moment he helped Daisy. I admired his patience and strength. Without Ms. Joan this book will be incomplete.
I saw faith, trust and totally reliance on God even when it doesn't make sense in the pages of this book. The settings of the book was wonderful.
I recommend it to everyone who loves a good story.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
March 7, 2020
A Gift to Cherish tackled many challenging issues in a straightforward, yet sensitive manner. There was a cautionary tale of a romance that occurred back in the 1970’s, where decisions made led to heartache. It was hard for me to read this portion of the story, which was presented in a flashback format. I felt sorry for Joan as I knew that she would not be getting a happy ending in that tale.
The modern day romance between Rafe and Daisy was really nice. I appreciated their candor with each other regarding the physical boundaries while dating. I also thought the author did a good job of showing two people who realized that they loved each other yet struggled to determine what God had in store for them.
Daisy’s friend, Chelsea, had a difficult time in this book and her life spiraled from one bad situation to another. Her desperation for love fueled bad decisions and even though she tried to be careful as she used the online dating apps, trouble found her anyway. This book can be read as a stand alone novel, even though it is book two in a series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The modern day romance between Rafe and Daisy was really nice. I appreciated their candor with each other regarding the physical boundaries while dating. I also thought the author did a good job of showing two people who realized that they loved each other yet struggled to determine what God had in store for them.
Daisy’s friend, Chelsea, had a difficult time in this book and her life spiraled from one bad situation to another. Her desperation for love fueled bad decisions and even though she tried to be careful as she used the online dating apps, trouble found her anyway. This book can be read as a stand alone novel, even though it is book two in a series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 12, 2020
"Not a day passes that I'm not scared about something and mad about something else. The calm you see? That's me hanging on to what Jesus did on the cross -- and I'm usually white-knuckling it with both hands." (p 214)
Real lives, broken people and the quest to find God in the midst of it all. I love that Victoria Bylin tackles current issues that affect women -- physically, mentally and emotionally -- with such grace and heart. She gets that Christians come in all shapes and sizes with diverse pasts and challenges...and degrees of brokeness. And that's okay, because...Jesus.
Survivor Daisy is determined to stay strong in her faith as she embraces a new beginning. She's guarded and cautious and definitely not in a place to start a relationship. But Rafe is pretty hard to resist. And in Refuge temporarily. The whole notion of getting to know him better spells disaster. He's just as aware of the potential complications of falling for a woman determined to grow roots in Refuge. But he's having the same problem resisting the attraction.
I love the way Bylin has woven their love story around day to day life in a small town with tons of heart and a great team of supportive secondary characters. And contrasts it with a very different kind of romance that took place nearly fifty years ago that had a very different ending. The very real struggle over choosing between our will or God's will plays a recurring theme as Daisy and Rafe expose their own hidden truths and learn to be vulnerable with each other...and with God.
This is the second book in Bylin's Road to Refuge series and, shame on me, I haven't read the first one -- it was completely off my radar for some strange reason -- so I can attest to the fact that you can definitely enjoy A Gift to Cherish without reading When He Found Me first. However, if you have read WHFM you will be thrilled to reconnect with Shane and MJ (I'm was and I just met them!
Real lives, broken people and the quest to find God in the midst of it all. I love that Victoria Bylin tackles current issues that affect women -- physically, mentally and emotionally -- with such grace and heart. She gets that Christians come in all shapes and sizes with diverse pasts and challenges...and degrees of brokeness. And that's okay, because...Jesus.
Survivor Daisy is determined to stay strong in her faith as she embraces a new beginning. She's guarded and cautious and definitely not in a place to start a relationship. But Rafe is pretty hard to resist. And in Refuge temporarily. The whole notion of getting to know him better spells disaster. He's just as aware of the potential complications of falling for a woman determined to grow roots in Refuge. But he's having the same problem resisting the attraction.
I love the way Bylin has woven their love story around day to day life in a small town with tons of heart and a great team of supportive secondary characters. And contrasts it with a very different kind of romance that took place nearly fifty years ago that had a very different ending. The very real struggle over choosing between our will or God's will plays a recurring theme as Daisy and Rafe expose their own hidden truths and learn to be vulnerable with each other...and with God.
This is the second book in Bylin's Road to Refuge series and, shame on me, I haven't read the first one -- it was completely off my radar for some strange reason -- so I can attest to the fact that you can definitely enjoy A Gift to Cherish without reading When He Found Me first. However, if you have read WHFM you will be thrilled to reconnect with Shane and MJ (I'm was and I just met them!
April 1, 2020
I am a huge fan of Victoria Bylin's contemporary novels (I've read all but one of them!) and after absolutely loving When He Found Me last year I jumped at the chance to request a review copy of the second book in the series! I loved Daisy in When He Found Me, and I was dying for her to get her own story, so when I first read the description of A Gift to Cherish and saw who it was about I was ecstatic and knew I had to read it! This book exceeded all my expectations, and I LOVED IT SO MUCH!
Thankfully, I have not had the same life experiences as Daisy, but I could totally relate to her feelings of unworthiness and fear that she wasn't good enough, she feels like a dear friend to me and I kept wishing I could reach through the pages and give her a hug!
Rafe is a fabulous, swoon-worthy hero, who is very protective and kind, but also broken and in need of healing. I know you will love him as much as I did!
I absolutely loved that one of the settings for this book is a ranch that was formerly used as a filming location for a TV western, that was such a unique and enthralling aspect of the story! Joan's story and POV was an excellent addition, it is both a cautionary tale and a beautiful reminder that no matter how badly we screw up God will never stop loving us!
A Gift to Cherish is an amazing read that I absolutely adored! I love the town of Refuge, Wyoming and I can't wait for my next visit! I'm looking forward to seeing who the next book will be about, my prediction is Chelsea!
A Gift to Cherish is definitely one for the keeper shelf, I highly HIGHLY recommend it!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
Thankfully, I have not had the same life experiences as Daisy, but I could totally relate to her feelings of unworthiness and fear that she wasn't good enough, she feels like a dear friend to me and I kept wishing I could reach through the pages and give her a hug!
Rafe is a fabulous, swoon-worthy hero, who is very protective and kind, but also broken and in need of healing. I know you will love him as much as I did!
I absolutely loved that one of the settings for this book is a ranch that was formerly used as a filming location for a TV western, that was such a unique and enthralling aspect of the story! Joan's story and POV was an excellent addition, it is both a cautionary tale and a beautiful reminder that no matter how badly we screw up God will never stop loving us!
A Gift to Cherish is an amazing read that I absolutely adored! I love the town of Refuge, Wyoming and I can't wait for my next visit! I'm looking forward to seeing who the next book will be about, my prediction is Chelsea!
A Gift to Cherish is definitely one for the keeper shelf, I highly HIGHLY recommend it!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
March 17, 2020
Bylin once again brings us some new and exciting characters.
Bylin will have you eagerly turning the pages to find out what happens to Daisy and Rafe. I stayed up to finish the book because I couldn't just stop at one chapter.
I love that this story is realistic and can draw you into it's pages like it's supposed to. She does a really good job and I can tell that this story is from her heart. Bylin wrote this with love.
Her supporting characters were amazing and I enjoyed getting to know them as well.
Daisy is an interesting character and she's an incredible woman. I really enjoyed her story to fullest! It left my heart feeling full and satisfied.
I think the thing I most enjoyed was how she adapted to the changes in her life and with how fast they were happening all at once! Oh my!
It's certainly weird how fast life can change in an instant isn't it? Like that song on Frozen 2 Some Things never change and I'm holding on tight to you.
And then something changes and keeps on changing? I don't think life is meant to stand still.
Highly recommended.
An overall fantastic story that you will be sure to love! I did!
My thanks for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own!
Bylin will have you eagerly turning the pages to find out what happens to Daisy and Rafe. I stayed up to finish the book because I couldn't just stop at one chapter.
I love that this story is realistic and can draw you into it's pages like it's supposed to. She does a really good job and I can tell that this story is from her heart. Bylin wrote this with love.
Her supporting characters were amazing and I enjoyed getting to know them as well.
Daisy is an interesting character and she's an incredible woman. I really enjoyed her story to fullest! It left my heart feeling full and satisfied.
I think the thing I most enjoyed was how she adapted to the changes in her life and with how fast they were happening all at once! Oh my!
It's certainly weird how fast life can change in an instant isn't it? Like that song on Frozen 2 Some Things never change and I'm holding on tight to you.
And then something changes and keeps on changing? I don't think life is meant to stand still.
Highly recommended.
An overall fantastic story that you will be sure to love! I did!
My thanks for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own!
December 30, 2021
I struggled to read this book. It made me angry. To be fair, I’ve been angry for a while, but this story fanned the flames of my anger. Before I explain why this story made me angry, I want to be clear — A Gift to Cherish is an excellent Christian Contemporary Romance. I will always love a good, clean Romance that’s replete with substance. I hate fluffy books. This is no fluffy read. I found the plot thoroughly engaging. I enjoyed how Daisy and Rafe’s contemporary love story is interwoven with Miss Joan’s past. I found the juxtaposition of the two love stories compelling and it definitely kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. The characters are well-written. They are some of the most life-like characters I’ve read in a long time. I like how the contemporary characters and Miss Joan fit their time periods, but never feel type-casted. Daisy and Rafe are good, well-meaning characters who want the best for each other, but are Millenials in every sense of that word. They annoyed me at times, but overall, I found them to be super endearing, and I did cheer for their happily ever after. Miss Joan is without a doubt a product of the 1970s feminist movement, but she is also a bit old-world genteel. There is grace and wisdom and nostalgia that surrounds her character. Simply put, she’s lovely and she’s my favorite character in this story. And, if this is not enough to make you want to read this book, I also found the many themes and topics discussed to be thought-provoking and weighty. A Gift to Cherish is definitely a book that will stick with readers long after the final page has been read.
As a woman, I feel betrayed by my own kind. To be specific, I feel betrayed by my mother’s generation. A woman is many things for sure, and a woman should have the right to figure out what those many things are just like any man, but the women of my mother’s generation single-handedly laid the foundation that brought about destruction. I know — harsh words, right? In my opinion, nothing has been more dangerous to the family unit and to women than the Feminism that sprang from the 1970s. I want to be clear — women have the right to be free, independent thinkers and doers. NO ONE has the right to tell a woman what she can and cannot do. However, when women fought to become “equal” to men, they destroyed everything. Men and women are not equal. They never have been and they never will be. Men and women are different and that is OK, that is good. In fact, that is how God wants it to be. Men are capable of doing things women can’t and women absolutely do things men will never be able to. There is power in our differences. But women screamed — “I want the right to kill, I want the right to have equal pay, I want the right to never have a family, I want the right to have sex when I want and how I want it, I want what HE has and I want it now!” All this did was create very dark and very dangerous consequences. It was a Pandora’s Box of evil, and as a woman today I don’t know how to put the evil back in the box. I don’t know how to protect my daughter from the ugly, sinister consequences of her grandmother’s generation. The power they screamed for has come with a truly terrible cost. I am angry because the people who should have been looking out for the future of women didn’t. The Nurturers of my kind turned on us for selfish pleasure and gain. They were like King Hezekiah from the Bible — when he was told that bad was going to come upon his grandchildren, he didn’t care. In fact, he felt relieved because he was going to get the benefits and be spared from the evil consequences of HIS dumb actions (2 Kings 20:16-19). A Gift to Cherish made me angry, but I LOVE that Miss Joan wrestles with everything I am angry about. She recognizes how damaging her fight for “equality” was to future generations and to her own self. Because of her feminism, her fight for her SELF, she is the last in her family. There will never be another Prescott from her family line ever again. How sad is that? I wish people would stop and think more about others and less about themselves. We’d live in a much better world for sure if people did.
A Gift to Cherish is a good book. It’s a book that will get readers to wrestle with a lot of tough topics. It’s a book that gets readers to think. I love that, and because of that, I think this book is an absolute must-read.
I borrowed a copy of this novel in eBook form from my Kindle Unlimited subscription on March 8, 2020, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
As a woman, I feel betrayed by my own kind. To be specific, I feel betrayed by my mother’s generation. A woman is many things for sure, and a woman should have the right to figure out what those many things are just like any man, but the women of my mother’s generation single-handedly laid the foundation that brought about destruction. I know — harsh words, right? In my opinion, nothing has been more dangerous to the family unit and to women than the Feminism that sprang from the 1970s. I want to be clear — women have the right to be free, independent thinkers and doers. NO ONE has the right to tell a woman what she can and cannot do. However, when women fought to become “equal” to men, they destroyed everything. Men and women are not equal. They never have been and they never will be. Men and women are different and that is OK, that is good. In fact, that is how God wants it to be. Men are capable of doing things women can’t and women absolutely do things men will never be able to. There is power in our differences. But women screamed — “I want the right to kill, I want the right to have equal pay, I want the right to never have a family, I want the right to have sex when I want and how I want it, I want what HE has and I want it now!” All this did was create very dark and very dangerous consequences. It was a Pandora’s Box of evil, and as a woman today I don’t know how to put the evil back in the box. I don’t know how to protect my daughter from the ugly, sinister consequences of her grandmother’s generation. The power they screamed for has come with a truly terrible cost. I am angry because the people who should have been looking out for the future of women didn’t. The Nurturers of my kind turned on us for selfish pleasure and gain. They were like King Hezekiah from the Bible — when he was told that bad was going to come upon his grandchildren, he didn’t care. In fact, he felt relieved because he was going to get the benefits and be spared from the evil consequences of HIS dumb actions (2 Kings 20:16-19). A Gift to Cherish made me angry, but I LOVE that Miss Joan wrestles with everything I am angry about. She recognizes how damaging her fight for “equality” was to future generations and to her own self. Because of her feminism, her fight for her SELF, she is the last in her family. There will never be another Prescott from her family line ever again. How sad is that? I wish people would stop and think more about others and less about themselves. We’d live in a much better world for sure if people did.
A Gift to Cherish is a good book. It’s a book that will get readers to wrestle with a lot of tough topics. It’s a book that gets readers to think. I love that, and because of that, I think this book is an absolute must-read.
I borrowed a copy of this novel in eBook form from my Kindle Unlimited subscription on March 8, 2020, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 18, 2020
Thank you in advance to the author, Victoria Bylin, and JustRead Publicity Tours for providing an advanced review copy. A positive review was not required, all words are my own.
I was not familiar with the author’s work prior to this, so she is a “new-to-me” author.
While this is the second book in the “Road to Refuge” series, it easily acts as a standalone, though readers might enjoy reading the other book, “When He Found Me” prior to this one.
When I read the description for this book, I was really curious about it. Right off the cover is cute and whimsical like this is going to be one of those “cute” romance reads.
It is and it isn’t. That’s what is interesting about this. This is a clean read and has a deep Christian Faith/religious tone to it. There are bible quotes in the headers of some chapters. Daisy’s faith is a huge part of her character and also part of the story. There are no sex scenes, while an affair is mentioned the “action” takes place off page.
Some “content” and/or “trigger” warnings will include:
** Opiod Addiction
** Drug Addiction
** Alcoholism
** Suicide
** Abortion
** Sexual Assault
** PTSD
** Extramarital Affair (mentioned)
In addition to being about recovery (in more than one way), there are also themes of redemption, healing, and facing new challenges. Bylin also tackles the new age of online dating and dating apps with a realistic, though challenging approach.
The main characters are:
** Daisy (Shane’s sister) – Sober and free of alcohol, she is trying to put her life back together. Deeply rooted in her faith and belief in Jesus, she still battles her demons
** Rafe Donovan (Jesse’s brother) – While he has “some” Christian beliefs, he is reluctant to firmly commit his life to God; happens to fall in love with Daisy
** Joan – a former TV actress who is looking to give her home away to a worthy cause since she leaves behind no husband, children, or grand-children. Was deeply in love with her married co-star, Trey, even after the affair ended
** Chelsea – single mom of Hannah. One of Daisy’s friends from Los Angeles. Stops in Refuge, Wyoming on her way to Michigan. Desperate not to be lonely, she takes to dating apps to find men
These four characters balance the story out. Told in third person, except for Joan’s reflection, the reader sees the dynamics of the relationships as well as the difference between the social setting of the 1970’s and today.
Daisy and Rafe don’t exactly hit it off on their first meeting – but, their “second” encounter is less stressful.
Daisy finally lands a good job working with Joan as an assistant. Joan, who is not only trying to write a “memoir” about the land, she is trying to sort through worthy charities to leave the ranch to. Daisy loves her job – and on the day of the interview – it is there she sees the kindness in Rafe.
Despite Rafe’s temporary status, he falls for Daisy. His approach to romance, for some, might seem old-fashioned. Yet, given everything Daisy has been through, it is a slow and sweet approach to gain her trust. Daisy appreciates his slowness and decides to take a chance on him.
From there, the romance is at a steady pace, not rushed or hurried. Rafe’s consideration of Daisy is admirable, if nothing short of chivalrous. There’s only two problems – his lack of faith and Geography.
Daisy wants to make her home and set down roots in Refuge, while Rafe wants to get back to the big city. Yet, each one starts to re-think what they want.
Chelsea, despite her divorce and what her friend has been through (and numerous warnings), has no problems with the world of dating apps. After Rafe and Daisy set up a date with Jesse, that fizzles, Chelsea takes to the apps to find her Mr. Right. Only she finds several Mr. “Wrongs” – three in a row no less. The last one proving to be dangerous.
Joan’s reflection on her own “affair” and how she handled her personal beliefs back in the early 1970’s, causes her to be the conscious and guiding hand that Daisy needs.
In the midst of this, Daisy’s brother (introduced in the first book) is getting married to MJ (also from the first book), a single mom.
Joan’s experience guides Daisy into finding and listening to God’s suggestion. Plaguing Daisy – choosing comfort and security over love. Joan has her regrets, but feels blessed by her experience. Her grace, tenacity, and benevolence are beautiful to witness.
I enjoyed watching Rafe slowly come around to seeing what his brother and Daisy saw. It wasn’t an “epiphany”, but a deep understanding and realization. Yet, his “stay or go home” conflict remains throughout the story, only being solved at the end (last few pages to be exact).
Joan’s lesson and advice for Daisy (and the reader as well) could be best compared to the “Serenity Prayer”:
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change what I can,
And, the wisdom to know the difference
Using Chelsea’s traumatic event at the end, Daisy and the reader, see that sometimes a place like Refuge isn’t to hide away, but to recover so one can move on to the next stage of their life. The work we’re sometimes called to do can be done from anywhere – both Rafe and Daisy see this throughout their journey of the “geography” challenge.
Bylin also has another message in the book – new challenges and how God directs us to them or puts them in our way. Not necessarily to punish us, but test us, as well as prepare us.
Of the four characters; I enjoyed Rafe, Daisy, and Joan. While Chelsea had a good heart, I was frustrated with her. The writer leaves the rest of Chelsea’s story at the beginning of the last chapter. I’m hoping that we get to see Chelsea’s story continue in the next book.
Written in a non-rushed pace, that keeps the reader interested, this was hard to walk away from. Despite it being over 350 pages, I found it a quick read. Most 350+ page books take at least three (3) to four (4) days. This took less than 36 hours to read.
The title, “A Gift to Cherish” comes from something Joan tells Daisy in chapter 32, close to the end. The gift is “grace” because it came at a cost, albeit different ones, to both of them.
This is definitely a heart-breaking, endearing, yet sweet story. It even had an element of suspense at the end.
I did enjoy this read and very glad I was able to get a review copy.
I’m sure fans of the author will enjoy the story, particularly fans of the first book.
Anyone looking for a read of this type will likely enjoy it as well.
I was not familiar with the author’s work prior to this, so she is a “new-to-me” author.
While this is the second book in the “Road to Refuge” series, it easily acts as a standalone, though readers might enjoy reading the other book, “When He Found Me” prior to this one.
When I read the description for this book, I was really curious about it. Right off the cover is cute and whimsical like this is going to be one of those “cute” romance reads.
It is and it isn’t. That’s what is interesting about this. This is a clean read and has a deep Christian Faith/religious tone to it. There are bible quotes in the headers of some chapters. Daisy’s faith is a huge part of her character and also part of the story. There are no sex scenes, while an affair is mentioned the “action” takes place off page.
Some “content” and/or “trigger” warnings will include:
** Opiod Addiction
** Drug Addiction
** Alcoholism
** Suicide
** Abortion
** Sexual Assault
** PTSD
** Extramarital Affair (mentioned)
In addition to being about recovery (in more than one way), there are also themes of redemption, healing, and facing new challenges. Bylin also tackles the new age of online dating and dating apps with a realistic, though challenging approach.
The main characters are:
** Daisy (Shane’s sister) – Sober and free of alcohol, she is trying to put her life back together. Deeply rooted in her faith and belief in Jesus, she still battles her demons
** Rafe Donovan (Jesse’s brother) – While he has “some” Christian beliefs, he is reluctant to firmly commit his life to God; happens to fall in love with Daisy
** Joan – a former TV actress who is looking to give her home away to a worthy cause since she leaves behind no husband, children, or grand-children. Was deeply in love with her married co-star, Trey, even after the affair ended
** Chelsea – single mom of Hannah. One of Daisy’s friends from Los Angeles. Stops in Refuge, Wyoming on her way to Michigan. Desperate not to be lonely, she takes to dating apps to find men
These four characters balance the story out. Told in third person, except for Joan’s reflection, the reader sees the dynamics of the relationships as well as the difference between the social setting of the 1970’s and today.
Daisy and Rafe don’t exactly hit it off on their first meeting – but, their “second” encounter is less stressful.
Daisy finally lands a good job working with Joan as an assistant. Joan, who is not only trying to write a “memoir” about the land, she is trying to sort through worthy charities to leave the ranch to. Daisy loves her job – and on the day of the interview – it is there she sees the kindness in Rafe.
Despite Rafe’s temporary status, he falls for Daisy. His approach to romance, for some, might seem old-fashioned. Yet, given everything Daisy has been through, it is a slow and sweet approach to gain her trust. Daisy appreciates his slowness and decides to take a chance on him.
From there, the romance is at a steady pace, not rushed or hurried. Rafe’s consideration of Daisy is admirable, if nothing short of chivalrous. There’s only two problems – his lack of faith and Geography.
Daisy wants to make her home and set down roots in Refuge, while Rafe wants to get back to the big city. Yet, each one starts to re-think what they want.
Chelsea, despite her divorce and what her friend has been through (and numerous warnings), has no problems with the world of dating apps. After Rafe and Daisy set up a date with Jesse, that fizzles, Chelsea takes to the apps to find her Mr. Right. Only she finds several Mr. “Wrongs” – three in a row no less. The last one proving to be dangerous.
Joan’s reflection on her own “affair” and how she handled her personal beliefs back in the early 1970’s, causes her to be the conscious and guiding hand that Daisy needs.
In the midst of this, Daisy’s brother (introduced in the first book) is getting married to MJ (also from the first book), a single mom.
Joan’s experience guides Daisy into finding and listening to God’s suggestion. Plaguing Daisy – choosing comfort and security over love. Joan has her regrets, but feels blessed by her experience. Her grace, tenacity, and benevolence are beautiful to witness.
I enjoyed watching Rafe slowly come around to seeing what his brother and Daisy saw. It wasn’t an “epiphany”, but a deep understanding and realization. Yet, his “stay or go home” conflict remains throughout the story, only being solved at the end (last few pages to be exact).
Joan’s lesson and advice for Daisy (and the reader as well) could be best compared to the “Serenity Prayer”:
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change what I can,
And, the wisdom to know the difference
Using Chelsea’s traumatic event at the end, Daisy and the reader, see that sometimes a place like Refuge isn’t to hide away, but to recover so one can move on to the next stage of their life. The work we’re sometimes called to do can be done from anywhere – both Rafe and Daisy see this throughout their journey of the “geography” challenge.
Bylin also has another message in the book – new challenges and how God directs us to them or puts them in our way. Not necessarily to punish us, but test us, as well as prepare us.
Of the four characters; I enjoyed Rafe, Daisy, and Joan. While Chelsea had a good heart, I was frustrated with her. The writer leaves the rest of Chelsea’s story at the beginning of the last chapter. I’m hoping that we get to see Chelsea’s story continue in the next book.
Written in a non-rushed pace, that keeps the reader interested, this was hard to walk away from. Despite it being over 350 pages, I found it a quick read. Most 350+ page books take at least three (3) to four (4) days. This took less than 36 hours to read.
The title, “A Gift to Cherish” comes from something Joan tells Daisy in chapter 32, close to the end. The gift is “grace” because it came at a cost, albeit different ones, to both of them.
This is definitely a heart-breaking, endearing, yet sweet story. It even had an element of suspense at the end.
I did enjoy this read and very glad I was able to get a review copy.
I’m sure fans of the author will enjoy the story, particularly fans of the first book.
Anyone looking for a read of this type will likely enjoy it as well.
April 24, 2020
The hits just keep on coming with this author! Loved the first book in the series, When He Found Me, and looked forward to reading the second. A Gift to Cherish did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s masterful transition of the main characters from MJ and Shane to Daisy and Rafe. Although A Gift to Cherish can be read as a standalone book, I strongly suggest you start with the first book since Daisy has such an intriguing background as a supporting character laid out in that story. You’ll be glad you did.
Daisy is a recovered alcoholic and a victim of violent assault. Driven by her new faith in Christ, she has a strong desire to help rescue other women caught in this cycle such as her good friend Chelsea who rooms with her. When Daisy and Rafe first cross paths, Daisy exercises extreme caution while an obvious attraction develops between them. Rafe, a cop on leave from his job in Cincinnati, is also cautious as he strives to heal from job-related PTSD. The character of Miss Joan, Daisy’s boss, is delightful. She’s older and has her own messy love story to tell, which is revealed in bits and pieces throughout the book. I love how she mentors Daisy. She’s the perfect example of the “Titus 2” woman. I love these characters. They linger with you long after you’ve finished the book. I look forward to more of the Refuge series!
Note: Some topics in this story such as alcoholism, date-rape drugs, an affair and the dangers of online dating may cause some readers to feel uncomfortable. But, as always, this author handles it all delicately with kid gloves and with a Biblical perspective.
Daisy is a recovered alcoholic and a victim of violent assault. Driven by her new faith in Christ, she has a strong desire to help rescue other women caught in this cycle such as her good friend Chelsea who rooms with her. When Daisy and Rafe first cross paths, Daisy exercises extreme caution while an obvious attraction develops between them. Rafe, a cop on leave from his job in Cincinnati, is also cautious as he strives to heal from job-related PTSD. The character of Miss Joan, Daisy’s boss, is delightful. She’s older and has her own messy love story to tell, which is revealed in bits and pieces throughout the book. I love how she mentors Daisy. She’s the perfect example of the “Titus 2” woman. I love these characters. They linger with you long after you’ve finished the book. I look forward to more of the Refuge series!
Note: Some topics in this story such as alcoholism, date-rape drugs, an affair and the dangers of online dating may cause some readers to feel uncomfortable. But, as always, this author handles it all delicately with kid gloves and with a Biblical perspective.
April 1, 2020
Rafe and Daisy are both broken and have come to Refuge to deal with their wounds in order to take a new start and they cross path. After a night shift while she was working in a restaurant she needs help with her flat tire and she reluctantly accept Rafe offer. Daisy has gone through an abusive relationship and was leaving with her brother, his fiancee and their child. Rafe is a Police Officer fron Cincinnati dealing with PTSD and has come to Refuge for afew month and lives with his brother and is working with him.
Rafe is immediately attracted by Daisy and want to meet her again, when Daisy found a new job as Personnal Assistant for Miss Joan in her Ranch they meet again and their relationship start growing little by little...
They both have been hurt, they need to heal, to trust God and surrender to him for their future.
It is an intersting story, realistic, dealing with themes such as abuse, PTSD, the negative effect that dating online can have and showing how much it is important to be vigilant.
Daisy has been a victim of abuse but God found her in her situation he reveal himself to her and allow her to have a fresh start to face her fear in order to give love a chance. He also put in her heart a desire to help other women, showing us that no matter how past God can still use us. No one is to broken for God,He can fix everybody and any situation. Nothing is impossible to our God.
Rafe is immediately attracted by Daisy and want to meet her again, when Daisy found a new job as Personnal Assistant for Miss Joan in her Ranch they meet again and their relationship start growing little by little...
They both have been hurt, they need to heal, to trust God and surrender to him for their future.
It is an intersting story, realistic, dealing with themes such as abuse, PTSD, the negative effect that dating online can have and showing how much it is important to be vigilant.
Daisy has been a victim of abuse but God found her in her situation he reveal himself to her and allow her to have a fresh start to face her fear in order to give love a chance. He also put in her heart a desire to help other women, showing us that no matter how past God can still use us. No one is to broken for God,He can fix everybody and any situation. Nothing is impossible to our God.
April 16, 2020
A Gift to Cherish by Victoria Bylin is the second in her Road to Refuge series. I especially enjoyed the first in the series, When He Found Me, and was quite eager to read this one. I’ve not been disappointed. While there are minor and brief allusions to the first novel in A Gift to Cherish, they only serve to enhance the new novel and does not make reading the books in order necessary; they could each be read as standalone if one wished.
Refuge, Wyoming; small town full of the kinds of people who become more family than neighbor; where neighbor helps neighbor, before a need is even expressed. It is here that Rafe Donovan lands, a Cincinnati police officer who has seen and experienced too much on the job, on an extended leave of absence. With PTSD that awakens him in middle of the night screaming, Rafe finds employment in his brothers construction firm to provide the physical activity he needs, and meets with his work ordered therapist online. When he stops to assist a female motorist with a flat tire on a secluded road late in the night, Rafe is intrigued.
Daisy Riley doesn’t trust most, and she especially doesn’t trust the tall, handsome man who stopped to assist her with her flat tire. Daisy is learning to move forward with her life following a brutal beating and rape at the hands of a former boyfriend. When she learns Rafe is the brother of her friend who owns a construction company, she continues to be on her guard. Rafe, however, is not dissuaded and gently continues to try to get to know this intriguing woman.
When Daisy and Rafe are hired for a job by an eccentric wealthy woman, they find their new employer enjoys playing Cupid. Question is, will Cupid arrow strike Daisy and Rafe or will their issues be too insurmountable for either to trust.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Just Read Tours, and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
Refuge, Wyoming; small town full of the kinds of people who become more family than neighbor; where neighbor helps neighbor, before a need is even expressed. It is here that Rafe Donovan lands, a Cincinnati police officer who has seen and experienced too much on the job, on an extended leave of absence. With PTSD that awakens him in middle of the night screaming, Rafe finds employment in his brothers construction firm to provide the physical activity he needs, and meets with his work ordered therapist online. When he stops to assist a female motorist with a flat tire on a secluded road late in the night, Rafe is intrigued.
Daisy Riley doesn’t trust most, and she especially doesn’t trust the tall, handsome man who stopped to assist her with her flat tire. Daisy is learning to move forward with her life following a brutal beating and rape at the hands of a former boyfriend. When she learns Rafe is the brother of her friend who owns a construction company, she continues to be on her guard. Rafe, however, is not dissuaded and gently continues to try to get to know this intriguing woman.
When Daisy and Rafe are hired for a job by an eccentric wealthy woman, they find their new employer enjoys playing Cupid. Question is, will Cupid arrow strike Daisy and Rafe or will their issues be too insurmountable for either to trust.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Just Read Tours, and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
April 13, 2020
A Gift to Cherish continues the story of Daisy Riley that was introduced in the first book in Victoria Bylin’s Road to Refuge series. Daisy is on the other side of an abusive relationship and safe in Refuge, Wyoming. This novel is a contemporary romance of the best kind. Its focus is on relationships — the good, the bad, and the ugly! With endearing characters and true-to-life issues, A Gift to Cherish is a recommended read.
The book centers on the relationship between Daisy and Rafe Donovan. Rafe is in Refuge to find peace from his nightmares. A big-city cop, he is always on alert and in protection mode. His and Daisy’s romance is sweet, but not without conflicts and problems. I loved how they sought what was best not only for themselves, but what was best for each other. There are other relationships represented as well. Joan, Daisy’s boss and mentor, provides counsel to Daisy, and I loved how Bylin reveals to the reader the source of her hard won wisdom. Chelsea, Daisy’s roommate, is an example of finding love in all the wrong places. The three women’s stories are great examples of what can be oh so right and what can be oh so wrong between men and women.
While A Gift to Cherish can be read as a standalone, I think you really should begin with book 1, When He Found Me, in order to understand just where Daisy has been and why she makes the decisions she does. Fans of contemporary romance with heart and soul will love this inspirational novel.
Recommended.
Audience: Adults.
(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
The book centers on the relationship between Daisy and Rafe Donovan. Rafe is in Refuge to find peace from his nightmares. A big-city cop, he is always on alert and in protection mode. His and Daisy’s romance is sweet, but not without conflicts and problems. I loved how they sought what was best not only for themselves, but what was best for each other. There are other relationships represented as well. Joan, Daisy’s boss and mentor, provides counsel to Daisy, and I loved how Bylin reveals to the reader the source of her hard won wisdom. Chelsea, Daisy’s roommate, is an example of finding love in all the wrong places. The three women’s stories are great examples of what can be oh so right and what can be oh so wrong between men and women.
While A Gift to Cherish can be read as a standalone, I think you really should begin with book 1, When He Found Me, in order to understand just where Daisy has been and why she makes the decisions she does. Fans of contemporary romance with heart and soul will love this inspirational novel.
Recommended.
Audience: Adults.
(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
April 16, 2020
My Thoughts on A Gift to Cherish:
I love a good book! This one is set back in time a bit but not enough for me to want to call it historical fiction. I’m sure some people would though. For me, it’s not that long before I was born so I don’t want to do that! I feel old enough as is!
This author has a propensity to write wonderful books. The characters draw you in and make you their best friends. You become invested in them and have to know what happens next and where they end up. She also happens to write about hard topics very well.
There is an author’s note in the about the book section that talks about some of the hard topics just in case they might be a trigger for you. I love how she takes two flawed and hurt people and can help them to heal and find peace along with a future together.
Highly recommend this book but also this author and this series.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I love a good book! This one is set back in time a bit but not enough for me to want to call it historical fiction. I’m sure some people would though. For me, it’s not that long before I was born so I don’t want to do that! I feel old enough as is!
This author has a propensity to write wonderful books. The characters draw you in and make you their best friends. You become invested in them and have to know what happens next and where they end up. She also happens to write about hard topics very well.
There is an author’s note in the about the book section that talks about some of the hard topics just in case they might be a trigger for you. I love how she takes two flawed and hurt people and can help them to heal and find peace along with a future together.
Highly recommend this book but also this author and this series.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
February 11, 2020
The second book in the Road to Refuge series continues with Daisy Riley who has found her brother and has settled in Refuge, Wyoming, far away from the trauma she sufferd in the previous book. She meets a visiting police officer from Cincinnati and has to make many decisions about what comes next for her. I loved most of the characters in the book and am hoping there will be a book three to follow up with these friends of Daisy.
April 15, 2020
This was a wonderful read. Both Rafe and Daisy have a lot to deal with in life and from their past experiences
Daisy still struggles with letting go of her past and trusting God for her future. She's broken and not sure she's worth anything or ready to love anyone. I loved seeing her grow, learning to love herself and cast aside the thoughts that she wasn't good enough.
And there's Rafe, also dealing with his own issues and suffering from PTSD especially with his job and his faith
I loved he and Daisy's relationship beautiful but not without its own challenges. It was nice to see how they handled these issues and grew in the process.
The subject matter dealt with in the book is definitely not one seen frequently but I loved how the author handled it. It's thought provoking and redemptive.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine
Daisy still struggles with letting go of her past and trusting God for her future. She's broken and not sure she's worth anything or ready to love anyone. I loved seeing her grow, learning to love herself and cast aside the thoughts that she wasn't good enough.
And there's Rafe, also dealing with his own issues and suffering from PTSD especially with his job and his faith
I loved he and Daisy's relationship beautiful but not without its own challenges. It was nice to see how they handled these issues and grew in the process.
The subject matter dealt with in the book is definitely not one seen frequently but I loved how the author handled it. It's thought provoking and redemptive.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine
April 15, 2020
A Gift to Cherish by Victoria Bylin was a book that was difficult to read. I was able to get through the book, but it was a difficult read. The real life topics that were touched upon in the book make it a very difficult read for me.
The 2 main characters in the book are Daisy Riley and Rafe Donavan. They both meet in Refuge, Wyoming, where they have both relocated to recently. They both have troubled pasts that they are hoping to leave behind by coming to Refuge, Wyoming. They begin to fall for each other and begin a relationship, but their troubles are beginning to come to light and might cause friction in their relationship.
I did enjoy how they were striving to overcome their troubled past to move forward with a loving relationship. The Author does give a disclaimer in regards to the Mature Subject matters that are part of the Daisy and Rafe's story. It is an OK book, but it was a difficult read.
The 2 main characters in the book are Daisy Riley and Rafe Donavan. They both meet in Refuge, Wyoming, where they have both relocated to recently. They both have troubled pasts that they are hoping to leave behind by coming to Refuge, Wyoming. They begin to fall for each other and begin a relationship, but their troubles are beginning to come to light and might cause friction in their relationship.
I did enjoy how they were striving to overcome their troubled past to move forward with a loving relationship. The Author does give a disclaimer in regards to the Mature Subject matters that are part of the Daisy and Rafe's story. It is an OK book, but it was a difficult read.
October 7, 2020
Love requires sacrifice is woven throughout this book. It requires stepping out on faith as Rafe, Daisy and Miss Joan learned in this moving novel. How we response to the choices in our past can determine our future. Readers get to see what happens when you surrender to God. It does not always go the way you want but God will be your guide through the good and the bad. These characters have had tragedies that could have made them bitter but through the redeeming power of God's love be brought them together and changed lives.
November 5, 2024
Absolutely love this book! The storylines are perfectly weaved to keep the book interesting without being hard to follow. I love that this is a sequel but focused on a different main character than the first book; while bringing in new characters. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
April 18, 2020
3.5 stars
April 12, 2020
Victoria Bylin returns to Refuge, Wyoming with familiar characters and some new ones. While A Gift to Cherish works fine as a stand alone book, I highly recommend reading When He Found Me first. Not only is it an excellent story, it tells more of Daisy’s story.
Daisy and Rafe are both in Refuge trying to heal. While Daisy has found her place with family, Rafe is visiting his brother for a visit while he’s on leave from the Cincinnati PD. From the first time these two characters meet, we see Rafe’s protectiveness and understanding of Daisy’s fear.
I also enjoyed the addition of Joan’s romance and the emphasis on the need for caution when it comes to falling for someone you know little about. This is highlighted even more with the dating app aspect.
Bylin creates flawed and relatable characters who face difficult life decisions while tackling the difficult subjects of PTSD, abuse, and affairs. Together, Rafe and Daisy learn to lean into God, compromise, and have honest conversations. I couldn’t help but root for them to reach their HEA.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Daisy and Rafe are both in Refuge trying to heal. While Daisy has found her place with family, Rafe is visiting his brother for a visit while he’s on leave from the Cincinnati PD. From the first time these two characters meet, we see Rafe’s protectiveness and understanding of Daisy’s fear.
I also enjoyed the addition of Joan’s romance and the emphasis on the need for caution when it comes to falling for someone you know little about. This is highlighted even more with the dating app aspect.
Bylin creates flawed and relatable characters who face difficult life decisions while tackling the difficult subjects of PTSD, abuse, and affairs. Together, Rafe and Daisy learn to lean into God, compromise, and have honest conversations. I couldn’t help but root for them to reach their HEA.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 1, 2020
A Gift to Cherish is another honestly realistic book that encourages readers to boldly face the giants in their lives with the help of the Lord. Although the story is obviously a contemporary romance, it is so much more. Both the hero and heroine of this tale carry secrets and heavy burdens that prevent them from living their life to the fullest. Fear has led to a strong lack of trust, especially of the opposite sex. The third primary character is an older woman, their employer who has also decided to play matchmaker. Her own past experiences are told alongside the main narrative and adds another layer to it.
I love how the author is unafraid to tackle the tough issues such as addiction, domestic abuse, the dangers of online dating, etc. Her approach is authentic without exaggeration or unnecessary details. It was a pleasure to follow Daisy’s progression as she gained confidence in herself and her abilities. Her loyalty and compassion toward her friends truly made Daisy a character I could love. I look forward to reading the next installment in this excellent series.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I love how the author is unafraid to tackle the tough issues such as addiction, domestic abuse, the dangers of online dating, etc. Her approach is authentic without exaggeration or unnecessary details. It was a pleasure to follow Daisy’s progression as she gained confidence in herself and her abilities. Her loyalty and compassion toward her friends truly made Daisy a character I could love. I look forward to reading the next installment in this excellent series.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
February 4, 2020
Victoria Bylin tackles the modern day cultural problems facing society today with her trademark honesty and bravery, all while telling a riveting story sure to captivate readers to the very last page.
In A Gift to Cherish, the second book in the Road to Refuge series, Bylin's characters are once again in need of refuge and healing for all manner of issues ranging from the dangers of online dating, domestic abuse, human trafficking to PTSD.
Daisey Riley and Rafe Donovan have their issue to overcome, along with the real life struggles associated with long distance relationships. Daisey and Rafe come to life on the page and readers will experience their every emotion. The chemistry between these two was fun, tender and all things romantic.
The dangerous downside of online dating portrayed in the story is quite the cautionary tale and one that should strike at least a bit healthy fear concerning safety in even the most adventurous dater.
The story Joanne Prescott relived about her and Trey Cochran's relationship in the 1970's stood in stark contrast to Daisey and Rafe's story. The comparison of these two relationships, whether to make our own choices or ultimately yield our every hope and desire to God's will, clearly revealed the difference it can make.
A Gift to Cherish is truly just that, a gift. Readers of contemporary fiction who value a compelling and engaging story, full of realistic situations and inspirational moments will enjoy another journey to Refuge.
In A Gift to Cherish, the second book in the Road to Refuge series, Bylin's characters are once again in need of refuge and healing for all manner of issues ranging from the dangers of online dating, domestic abuse, human trafficking to PTSD.
Daisey Riley and Rafe Donovan have their issue to overcome, along with the real life struggles associated with long distance relationships. Daisey and Rafe come to life on the page and readers will experience their every emotion. The chemistry between these two was fun, tender and all things romantic.
The dangerous downside of online dating portrayed in the story is quite the cautionary tale and one that should strike at least a bit healthy fear concerning safety in even the most adventurous dater.
The story Joanne Prescott relived about her and Trey Cochran's relationship in the 1970's stood in stark contrast to Daisey and Rafe's story. The comparison of these two relationships, whether to make our own choices or ultimately yield our every hope and desire to God's will, clearly revealed the difference it can make.
A Gift to Cherish is truly just that, a gift. Readers of contemporary fiction who value a compelling and engaging story, full of realistic situations and inspirational moments will enjoy another journey to Refuge.
February 11, 2020
A Gift To Cherish is book number two in Victoria Bylin's Road To Refuge series. I must admit though, I did not even realize it was part of a series until I sat down to write this review. Needless to say, it can be read as a standalone with no problem. That said, I so enjoyed not only this story, but the author's unique voice in the Christian fiction genre that I will certainly be interested in going back and reading book one, and more from her in the future as well.
In A Gift To Cherish, we meet two imperfect characters- Daisy and Rafe. Both have been through a lot in their past and have made their way to Refuge to recover from those struggles. A flat tire leads to a chance meeting...and without giving too much away, a romance follows. But this isn't your classic Christian romance novel. Let's be honest, many Christian romances tend to steer clear of the physical aspect of relationships completely. While I certainly don't mind that, it's also not quite realistic either. This book is completely clean, but it does bring light to the setting of boundaries in a relationship. As such, I can see this being a refreshing read for those who are single and perhaps struggle in that area... it's a much more realistic viewpoint that I think can be appreciated. It also gives us a look at the very real dangers of online dating in an honest way as well. This book certainly isn't one to shy away from the hard stuff.
I really enjoyed the contrast of Daisy and Rafe's current relationship and the struggles with modern dating with Joan's own romance in the 70s. Not only do we see the differences in the times, but in the mindset of these two women as well. Daisy found herself striving to keep physical boundaries in place, and God at the center of her relationship whereas Joan did not. I again will not give too much away, but I really enjoyed this backstory and seeing how Joan grew from the experience and offered up that wisdom to Daisy as well.
Overall, this was a really unique story and one that I am glad to have read. While I certainly enjoyed it as a married woman who enjoys romance, I can also see it being one that really appeals to those currently in the dating scene even more. It's certainly one worth checking out regardless.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
In A Gift To Cherish, we meet two imperfect characters- Daisy and Rafe. Both have been through a lot in their past and have made their way to Refuge to recover from those struggles. A flat tire leads to a chance meeting...and without giving too much away, a romance follows. But this isn't your classic Christian romance novel. Let's be honest, many Christian romances tend to steer clear of the physical aspect of relationships completely. While I certainly don't mind that, it's also not quite realistic either. This book is completely clean, but it does bring light to the setting of boundaries in a relationship. As such, I can see this being a refreshing read for those who are single and perhaps struggle in that area... it's a much more realistic viewpoint that I think can be appreciated. It also gives us a look at the very real dangers of online dating in an honest way as well. This book certainly isn't one to shy away from the hard stuff.
I really enjoyed the contrast of Daisy and Rafe's current relationship and the struggles with modern dating with Joan's own romance in the 70s. Not only do we see the differences in the times, but in the mindset of these two women as well. Daisy found herself striving to keep physical boundaries in place, and God at the center of her relationship whereas Joan did not. I again will not give too much away, but I really enjoyed this backstory and seeing how Joan grew from the experience and offered up that wisdom to Daisy as well.
Overall, this was a really unique story and one that I am glad to have read. While I certainly enjoyed it as a married woman who enjoys romance, I can also see it being one that really appeals to those currently in the dating scene even more. It's certainly one worth checking out regardless.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
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