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Joy Express
Nearly a year has passed since Scott and Bailey's Christmas wedding. Now they are expecting joy in the form of twins!
The day arrives for the opening of Barkley House a missionary retreat provided by Bailey's inheritance but an unspeakable evil descends upon Bailey as she awaits her ride to the opening ceremony. Scott can't find her.
Shocking revelations accompany Bailey's ordeal. Will she ever find joy again?
The day arrives for the opening of Barkley House a missionary retreat provided by Bailey's inheritance but an unspeakable evil descends upon Bailey as she awaits her ride to the opening ceremony. Scott can't find her.
Shocking revelations accompany Bailey's ordeal. Will she ever find joy again?
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2019
1 person is currently reading
11 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
March 27, 2020
I liked this emotion packed novella. While there is intense drama early in the story, most of it concentrates on how Bailey handles the trauma she experienced and her new circumstances as mother of twins. The character development is done well as Bailey deals with other issues too, such as self imposed guilt from her parents breaking up when she was young.
The aspect of the story I liked the best was how friends and neighbors came together to help Bailey and her husband during this traumatic time. I liked also that there is a very clear Christian message presented.
This is the third book in the Express Series and I would recommend the earlier ones be read to get the full enjoyment out of this one. While some back story was included in this book, I was often conscious of having missed the complete story in the other books. The character relationships and the support they provide are an essential part of the story and are not quite understood without the previous stories.
I recommend this engaging story of trauma and healing, all in the context of loved ones coming near for support. It would make a heart warming read of an evening.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The aspect of the story I liked the best was how friends and neighbors came together to help Bailey and her husband during this traumatic time. I liked also that there is a very clear Christian message presented.
This is the third book in the Express Series and I would recommend the earlier ones be read to get the full enjoyment out of this one. While some back story was included in this book, I was often conscious of having missed the complete story in the other books. The character relationships and the support they provide are an essential part of the story and are not quite understood without the previous stories.
I recommend this engaging story of trauma and healing, all in the context of loved ones coming near for support. It would make a heart warming read of an evening.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 2, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
When I saw the cover of this book and the title, I was expecting a joyous April Christmas story filled all of holiday joy. And it did start and end that way, but in between all of that, was a most horrific read. As a very pregnant Bailey awaits for her ride to an open house, a very different person shows up, and forces her to go with him instead. This started the horrible journey for Bailey and a host of scared and confused friends searching for her.
This is my first book by author Jody Day, and I was quite intrigued. The major characters played strong rolls that developed well throughout the story, as did the other characters we meet in this story. The beginning is really rather scary, and my heart went out to Bailey as she struggled with the situations she was having to deal with. I like her character, and it was easy for me to see the strong woman she is. There were a lot of twists and turns here, and emotions both good and bad were flying high everywhere. Joy Express turned out to be a pretty face paced read for me, I finished it in a couple of hours, which is good, because I didn’t want to put this book down until I found put what would happen. And as I said in the beginning, the ending was a sweet joyous occasion, full of many memories, and making even more. I encourage you to check out this book and give it a try.
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.
Click here to get your copy.
When I saw the cover of this book and the title, I was expecting a joyous April Christmas story filled all of holiday joy. And it did start and end that way, but in between all of that, was a most horrific read. As a very pregnant Bailey awaits for her ride to an open house, a very different person shows up, and forces her to go with him instead. This started the horrible journey for Bailey and a host of scared and confused friends searching for her.
This is my first book by author Jody Day, and I was quite intrigued. The major characters played strong rolls that developed well throughout the story, as did the other characters we meet in this story. The beginning is really rather scary, and my heart went out to Bailey as she struggled with the situations she was having to deal with. I like her character, and it was easy for me to see the strong woman she is. There were a lot of twists and turns here, and emotions both good and bad were flying high everywhere. Joy Express turned out to be a pretty face paced read for me, I finished it in a couple of hours, which is good, because I didn’t want to put this book down until I found put what would happen. And as I said in the beginning, the ending was a sweet joyous occasion, full of many memories, and making even more. I encourage you to check out this book and give it a try.
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.
Click here to get your copy.
March 24, 2020
This book was a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed the short but refreshing story. It was unlike anything I have read before.
Bailey's heart for Brenan was so admirable. Even though she had suffered she didn't want her to go through what she went through. Her strength and courage was so admirable.
My heart went out to her as she went through the whole process of grief and recovery but her faith in God and decision to lean on the people he had placed in her life was touching. Everyone could learn a thing or two from this story.
This book will warm your heart, bring out a few years but ultimately remind one of God's promise to be close to the brokenhearted.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Bailey's heart for Brenan was so admirable. Even though she had suffered she didn't want her to go through what she went through. Her strength and courage was so admirable.
My heart went out to her as she went through the whole process of grief and recovery but her faith in God and decision to lean on the people he had placed in her life was touching. Everyone could learn a thing or two from this story.
This book will warm your heart, bring out a few years but ultimately remind one of God's promise to be close to the brokenhearted.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
February 6, 2020
This was a short novella. I think I finished it in one sitting which was nice because it was a great break on a weekend afternoon. I hadn’t read the first book in the series, and while I didn’t have to in order to enjoy the book, I think if people are picking it up for the first time, I would recommend first reading Wedding Express. In fact, I almost bought Wedding Express to read before enjoying Joy Express. I think if I had, I would have enjoyed it that much more, but I thoroughly enjoyed it as a standalone also.
I really liked the characters. At first they seemed a little “too perfect” to me. With all the problems they were experiencing (and boy were there a lot of issues they faced!) they were too calm, and too good with their answers and responses. Then I realized, they had learned/matured/grown in their faith from the first book and were just choosing to respond in a way that glorified God, and when I realized that, I began to admire their choices instead of feel guilty for thinking I wouldn’t be able to live up to their standards. I think I liked the mom, a secondary character, even more than the main character because I related the most to her. It was a wonderful book and after a week I’m still thinking about them, wishing they were my neighbors and friends and wanting to babysit their precious babies. While this is the first book of this author I’ve read, it won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.
I really liked the characters. At first they seemed a little “too perfect” to me. With all the problems they were experiencing (and boy were there a lot of issues they faced!) they were too calm, and too good with their answers and responses. Then I realized, they had learned/matured/grown in their faith from the first book and were just choosing to respond in a way that glorified God, and when I realized that, I began to admire their choices instead of feel guilty for thinking I wouldn’t be able to live up to their standards. I think I liked the mom, a secondary character, even more than the main character because I related the most to her. It was a wonderful book and after a week I’m still thinking about them, wishing they were my neighbors and friends and wanting to babysit their precious babies. While this is the first book of this author I’ve read, it won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.
November 10, 2019
The third book in the series set in Texas, in this story we are re-introduced to Bailey and Scott West, and literally come in the middle of frightening action and dreadful secrets.
Told in alternating first person, Bailey and Scott, who married a year earlier, are expecting their first baby…babies…like, any second. Complicating the matter is Grandpa Brown, on the lam with embezzlement charges on his head and serious anger issues, has a strange way of “just trying to talk” to his oldest daughter for the first time in twenty years. There’s much more to his story, and Bailey comes to learn just how dark the world can be, but also how big her heart can grow. With Bailey at such a desperate place, Scott fears not only for her, but worries over his own abilities to be the husband of strength and faith she can rely on.
As we come in the middle of a traumatic event, references to friends and family, an inheritance, settlement, and a dedication of a missionary retreat are somewhat vague in the early going. I recommend reading the stories in order to get the full picture.
Joy Express is a sweet, detailed episode in the Wests’ lives as Bailey faces peril and then she and Scott learn about parenthood and reliance. Set during Bailey’s favorite time of year, Christmas, Joy Express is a warm Texas holiday treat of a read.
Told in alternating first person, Bailey and Scott, who married a year earlier, are expecting their first baby…babies…like, any second. Complicating the matter is Grandpa Brown, on the lam with embezzlement charges on his head and serious anger issues, has a strange way of “just trying to talk” to his oldest daughter for the first time in twenty years. There’s much more to his story, and Bailey comes to learn just how dark the world can be, but also how big her heart can grow. With Bailey at such a desperate place, Scott fears not only for her, but worries over his own abilities to be the husband of strength and faith she can rely on.
As we come in the middle of a traumatic event, references to friends and family, an inheritance, settlement, and a dedication of a missionary retreat are somewhat vague in the early going. I recommend reading the stories in order to get the full picture.
Joy Express is a sweet, detailed episode in the Wests’ lives as Bailey faces peril and then she and Scott learn about parenthood and reliance. Set during Bailey’s favorite time of year, Christmas, Joy Express is a warm Texas holiday treat of a read.
March 29, 2020
As you read this book be sure you have tissues ready. The story is very emotional but has such a powerful message. Bailey endures an unthinkable horror as she prepares for a big celebration. Her past is quickly becoming a nightmare as danger finds her. I loved how the author presents Bailey as a woman who has faced abandonment and tries every day to believe she is loved. The strong message in the story is one of joy and love.
There is much packed into this novella that whispers forgiveness and hope. I loved how Bailey witnessed true love from her husband as he stood beside her through the trauma. His faith is unwavering and I liked that he brought comfort to his wife. The story shares how family and friends come together in a crisis.
My favorite character is Brenna. She is an adorable young girl who smiles even though she has much to cry about. Her bond with Bailey is definitely an answered prayer. She embraces life with pure innocence. The time she spends with Bailey as they share their past is emotional. It breaks my heart to read that a child would carry the burden of thinking they are the reason their parents divorced. I enjoyed the story and thought the author did a great job of showing God’s love during difficult situations.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
There is much packed into this novella that whispers forgiveness and hope. I loved how Bailey witnessed true love from her husband as he stood beside her through the trauma. His faith is unwavering and I liked that he brought comfort to his wife. The story shares how family and friends come together in a crisis.
My favorite character is Brenna. She is an adorable young girl who smiles even though she has much to cry about. Her bond with Bailey is definitely an answered prayer. She embraces life with pure innocence. The time she spends with Bailey as they share their past is emotional. It breaks my heart to read that a child would carry the burden of thinking they are the reason their parents divorced. I enjoyed the story and thought the author did a great job of showing God’s love during difficult situations.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
April 2, 2020
My Thoughts on Joy Express:
This is a shorter novel. It’s also the third in a series and I, unfortunately, made the mistake of not finding the other books to read first. Should be read as a series as it’s intended.
The characters were well developed and easy to connect with. Even the secondary characters were loveable and Brenna might have been one of my favorites. Bailey is expecting twins about a year after her Christmas wedding. I’ve always wanted to have twins so this was fun to read about a character expecting them.
Bailey has had a difficult life and when trouble finds her and disaster strikes how will she handle it? The community is rallying and things will go on! Definitely a good read. Christian fiction and you know this by reading so it’s not just designated that way.
I would recommend this book but I would also recommend you read the whole series so you have the backstory.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. 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.
This is a shorter novel. It’s also the third in a series and I, unfortunately, made the mistake of not finding the other books to read first. Should be read as a series as it’s intended.
The characters were well developed and easy to connect with. Even the secondary characters were loveable and Brenna might have been one of my favorites. Bailey is expecting twins about a year after her Christmas wedding. I’ve always wanted to have twins so this was fun to read about a character expecting them.
Bailey has had a difficult life and when trouble finds her and disaster strikes how will she handle it? The community is rallying and things will go on! Definitely a good read. Christian fiction and you know this by reading so it’s not just designated that way.
I would recommend this book but I would also recommend you read the whole series so you have the backstory.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. 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.
April 6, 2020
The book was a short book, and I finished it in a couple of hours. I had a little bit of trouble understanding the storyline when I began reading it. I realized that this is the 3rd book in this series and I haven't read the first 2 in the series yet. I think it is better to read the first 2 in the series first, but after getting a couple chapters into the book, I was able to understand the storyline with clarity.
Scott and Bailey have been enjoying wedded bliss for a year and are excitedly expecting Twins. In the midst of the excitement, there is also drama and intrigue due to Bailey having some things come to light. Scott and Bailey are getting things ready for the Open House of their Retreat Center for Missionaries. Bailey is kidnapped while awaiting for her to ride to the Retreat Center. The Community rallies together to find Bailey. Scott and the Community find out some shocking things while on the hunt for Bailey. Will they find Bailey safe? Will there be a "Joyful" ending? You will definitely want to read this wonderful book to find out!
Joy Express was my first introduction to author Jody Day. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more books from Jody Day, including the first 2 in this series. FABULOUS BOOK!!
Scott and Bailey have been enjoying wedded bliss for a year and are excitedly expecting Twins. In the midst of the excitement, there is also drama and intrigue due to Bailey having some things come to light. Scott and Bailey are getting things ready for the Open House of their Retreat Center for Missionaries. Bailey is kidnapped while awaiting for her to ride to the Retreat Center. The Community rallies together to find Bailey. Scott and the Community find out some shocking things while on the hunt for Bailey. Will they find Bailey safe? Will there be a "Joyful" ending? You will definitely want to read this wonderful book to find out!
Joy Express was my first introduction to author Jody Day. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more books from Jody Day, including the first 2 in this series. FABULOUS BOOK!!
April 10, 2020
This book is the third book of a series by Jody Day. I haven’t read the first two, but I was able to step into the storyline very quickly. What a beginning for a book! The drama began within the first few pages. Just when things seemed to to calming down a bit, there was a twist in the story that added another level of complications, and these had perplexing ramifications for the characters in this book.
Both Bailey and Brenna were characters that I grew to care about. Both had to deal with loss and being abandoned by a parent. Bailey had difficult circumstances to come to terms with, but her desire to help care for Brenna was one of the most touching parts of this story. I liked the theme of faith in God during difficult circumstances that was present all the way throughout this book. This series seems to center on faith, family, and friends. I’d like to go back and read the other books in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Both Bailey and Brenna were characters that I grew to care about. Both had to deal with loss and being abandoned by a parent. Bailey had difficult circumstances to come to terms with, but her desire to help care for Brenna was one of the most touching parts of this story. I liked the theme of faith in God during difficult circumstances that was present all the way throughout this book. This series seems to center on faith, family, and friends. I’d like to go back and read the other books in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 7, 2020
The characters in this story are quite well developed and show much strength when life gets hard. The story starts out light and celebratory, but quickly goes into a downward spiral as traumatic things happen. Day handles these things well, and always writes with a sense of hope and forgiveness, showing that healing is possible through God.
Emotion packed and often intense, we still see a sense of community as people rally around Bailey and her situation. Although this is the third book in the series, author Jody Day gives enough back story that this can be read as a stand alone, which is what I did. I was able to easily follow the plot.
If you enjoy a fast paced story of contemporary fiction you’ll want to read Joy Express.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Emotion packed and often intense, we still see a sense of community as people rally around Bailey and her situation. Although this is the third book in the series, author Jody Day gives enough back story that this can be read as a stand alone, which is what I did. I was able to easily follow the plot.
If you enjoy a fast paced story of contemporary fiction you’ll want to read Joy Express.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
April 7, 2020
Joy Express" by Jody Day is a short read and though it starts out as a dangerous time in Bailey's life it turns into joy for her and her family. This is not a happy ever lasting story for all of the characters but it is for most of the characters.
This book touches on abuse and , yes, cancer and kidnapping.
I would recommend this book to all readers who like a little danger ( without real graphics detailed) in the stories they read.
It mentions Christmas, but I really wouldn't consider this a Christmas story but there is a scene where gifts are given out.
This is a story about what real love is and how families come together to help another in trouble.
I was given a complementary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
This book touches on abuse and , yes, cancer and kidnapping.
I would recommend this book to all readers who like a little danger ( without real graphics detailed) in the stories they read.
It mentions Christmas, but I really wouldn't consider this a Christmas story but there is a scene where gifts are given out.
This is a story about what real love is and how families come together to help another in trouble.
I was given a complementary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
January 3, 2020
Captivating
Loved Joy Express! I had a hard time putting it down. I was captivated through the entire book. Hoping there will be another book to continue the Love and Joy of this precious family.
Loved Joy Express! I had a hard time putting it down. I was captivated through the entire book. Hoping there will be another book to continue the Love and Joy of this precious family.
May 11, 2020
Joy Express is a book that captures an incredible amount of different emotions. From the love of family to fear of being kidnapped to suicide to dealing with leukemia and more, this book packs a punch in the best possible way. The faith, hope, and love that comes from knowing you are a beloved child of God shine through the pages.
Bailey and her half-sister Brennan help bring this story to life. Always wondering why you are not enough for a parent to love you and want to stay with you creates a void in one’s heart. But the love of family and friends allows that void to dissipate. Truly, this book is one that takes some of the darkest of scenes and turns them into incredible ones filled with the light of our Heavenly Father. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.
Bailey and her half-sister Brennan help bring this story to life. Always wondering why you are not enough for a parent to love you and want to stay with you creates a void in one’s heart. But the love of family and friends allows that void to dissipate. Truly, this book is one that takes some of the darkest of scenes and turns them into incredible ones filled with the light of our Heavenly Father. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.
June 5, 2022
God gives peace
God gives peace is the underlying theme of "Joy Express" by Jody Day is the third book in the "Express Series" published in 2019 by Harbourlight Books (Pelican Book Group). The book starts with Bailey, pregnant with twins, being kidnaped by her own father just at the planned opening of a the Barkley House, a retreat center. After she is free again Bailey discovers that she has also a sister who is dying of leukemia. Bailey struggles not only with having her twins and a sister but also with other issues. Will her husband, Scott, and their other friends be able to help her? Will Bailey find God's peace? It is important to note that it is adviceable to read the first two books of the series (Washout Express and Mistletoe Misses) in order to have some of the background for this story.
This was the third book by this author and I really liked it and recommend it to readers who like an inspirational and enjoyable clean romance that is easy to read but also offers some surprises. I also liked the fact that there is a "Devotional Moment" at the end of the book that challenges readers to reflect about the underlying topic of the book.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#JoyExpress #Netgalley
God gives peace is the underlying theme of "Joy Express" by Jody Day is the third book in the "Express Series" published in 2019 by Harbourlight Books (Pelican Book Group). The book starts with Bailey, pregnant with twins, being kidnaped by her own father just at the planned opening of a the Barkley House, a retreat center. After she is free again Bailey discovers that she has also a sister who is dying of leukemia. Bailey struggles not only with having her twins and a sister but also with other issues. Will her husband, Scott, and their other friends be able to help her? Will Bailey find God's peace? It is important to note that it is adviceable to read the first two books of the series (Washout Express and Mistletoe Misses) in order to have some of the background for this story.
This was the third book by this author and I really liked it and recommend it to readers who like an inspirational and enjoyable clean romance that is easy to read but also offers some surprises. I also liked the fact that there is a "Devotional Moment" at the end of the book that challenges readers to reflect about the underlying topic of the book.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#JoyExpress #Netgalley
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