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Spring Splash
When an injury sidelines college swimmer Anna Callaway, her dreams are crushed. She pours herself into her sports marketing practicum, helping a local special needs organization promote their athletic event. What she doesn’t expect is a swim team ripe for the Special Olympics—and their handsome but stubborn coach.
Craig Holt has dealt with eager and ignorant volunteers before. No matter how determined or persuasive uptight Anna might be about coaching his team to the Special Olympics, he has no intention of allowing her to raise the hopes of his swimmers, his sister, or his guarded heart.
Then Anna herself gets a second chance at becoming a champion. Will she pursue her lifelong goals or make room for a new dream?
Craig Holt has dealt with eager and ignorant volunteers before. No matter how determined or persuasive uptight Anna might be about coaching his team to the Special Olympics, he has no intention of allowing her to raise the hopes of his swimmers, his sister, or his guarded heart.
Then Anna herself gets a second chance at becoming a champion. Will she pursue her lifelong goals or make room for a new dream?
238 pages, Paperback
Published March 2, 2020
40 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Denise Weimer
36 books402 followersDenise Weimer writes historical and contemporary romance from her home in North Georgia and also serves as a freelance editor and the Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books. A mother of two daughters, she always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 2, 2020
Denise Weimer takes readers into the world of competitive swimming as well as the volunteers, families, and people who live every day with disabilities. Spring Splash is so much more than a sweet romance (though it is that too).
The people Anna meets during her practicum each captured my heart in one way or another. Weimer gives them each their own personality while educating readers on the autism spectrum and the challenges represented in each of these people’s lives. Yet, the message rings clear that each person is fearfully and wonderfully made.
As Anna and Craig work together (not without a few fireworks), they come to admire each other and friendship blossoms into more. Anna uses her determination to fight for the people she’s come to love. Those who possess determination, courage, and an outlook on life greater than many of us have.
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.
The people Anna meets during her practicum each captured my heart in one way or another. Weimer gives them each their own personality while educating readers on the autism spectrum and the challenges represented in each of these people’s lives. Yet, the message rings clear that each person is fearfully and wonderfully made.
As Anna and Craig work together (not without a few fireworks), they come to admire each other and friendship blossoms into more. Anna uses her determination to fight for the people she’s come to love. Those who possess determination, courage, and an outlook on life greater than many of us have.
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.
March 4, 2020
Spring Splash by Denise Weimer is a wonderful contemporary Christian novel that surrounds two of my passions – swimming and special needs teens. It is a powerful read about pursuing your dreams, trying your best and celebrating successes.
I have worked with special needs children aged 11- 18 years in the local high school for thirteen years and it has been a joy and a pleasure. I totally connected with Spring Splash and ‘felt’ the love and had empathy with the young swimmers and their passion for sport. “No one is too broken in the water. No one is too heavy. No one is too clumsy. We’re all the same.” Swimming is a great leveller. It improves health, releases endorphins and enables all to glide through the water.
There were other sports in the novel. I loved the quote from a young runner. “When I run, I’m like everyone else.”
The novel shows the importance of trying our best. “So what if their best looks different from one person to another.” Everyone’s ‘best’ is unique and tailored to them. My ‘best’ is not the same as someone else’s. I must never compare myself to anyone else. We must only compare ourselves to the person we used to be.
When working with special needs teens it is important to be guided by their abilities and needs. We must have empathy and work at their pace.
The love that those with special needs give shines brightly in the novel. Bonds that they make will not be broken or tarnished.
We need to feel good about the skin we are in. “I’ve had to let God chisel away at my nasty side. Still a work in progress.” We may make our plans but the best plan to follow for our lives will always be God’s plan. When we follow His leading, no matter what our circumstances, we will receive a peace.
Prayer is important. “My truck is my prayer closet.” The important thing is to pray without ceasing. It does not matter where we pray, so long as we pray.
Denise Weimer has created a wonderful set of characters. I could ‘see’ them and ‘feel’ their unique personalities.
Spring Splash is an absolutely marvellous read. I love all Denise Weimer’s books but I think that Spring Splash is my favourite so far.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
I have worked with special needs children aged 11- 18 years in the local high school for thirteen years and it has been a joy and a pleasure. I totally connected with Spring Splash and ‘felt’ the love and had empathy with the young swimmers and their passion for sport. “No one is too broken in the water. No one is too heavy. No one is too clumsy. We’re all the same.” Swimming is a great leveller. It improves health, releases endorphins and enables all to glide through the water.
There were other sports in the novel. I loved the quote from a young runner. “When I run, I’m like everyone else.”
The novel shows the importance of trying our best. “So what if their best looks different from one person to another.” Everyone’s ‘best’ is unique and tailored to them. My ‘best’ is not the same as someone else’s. I must never compare myself to anyone else. We must only compare ourselves to the person we used to be.
When working with special needs teens it is important to be guided by their abilities and needs. We must have empathy and work at their pace.
The love that those with special needs give shines brightly in the novel. Bonds that they make will not be broken or tarnished.
We need to feel good about the skin we are in. “I’ve had to let God chisel away at my nasty side. Still a work in progress.” We may make our plans but the best plan to follow for our lives will always be God’s plan. When we follow His leading, no matter what our circumstances, we will receive a peace.
Prayer is important. “My truck is my prayer closet.” The important thing is to pray without ceasing. It does not matter where we pray, so long as we pray.
Denise Weimer has created a wonderful set of characters. I could ‘see’ them and ‘feel’ their unique personalities.
Spring Splash is an absolutely marvellous read. I love all Denise Weimer’s books but I think that Spring Splash is my favourite so far.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 4, 2020
Denise Weimer has given us another heartwarming story about determination, love, compassion and much much more!
I loved this story for various reasons and I learned quite a bit about autism that I never knew about.
I also loved the characters Craig and Anna as they work together for the Spring Splash. Working with someone isn't always easy. You're bound to have a few squabbles here and there.
I found myself laughing and crying right along with the characters in this book.
Louis's story especially. Her story, in my opinion is the most touching followed by Craig's.
I think I have the most compassion for Craig.
He sure has gone through a lot and is still struggling with letting God having control over his life. But then again, don't we all?
I know I do. Do you?
These characters will always have a special place in my heart because of what obstacles they have come through to come out on top.
I spent half the night reading this touching story because it was so good! You won't want to put it down until it is finished and believe me when I say that you'll be thinking about these amazing characters g after the book is finished. I know I am!!
My thanks to Just Reads and the author for a complimentary copy of this book.
NO compensations were received and I was NOT required to write a positive review for this book. All Opinions are my own.
I loved this story for various reasons and I learned quite a bit about autism that I never knew about.
I also loved the characters Craig and Anna as they work together for the Spring Splash. Working with someone isn't always easy. You're bound to have a few squabbles here and there.
I found myself laughing and crying right along with the characters in this book.
Louis's story especially. Her story, in my opinion is the most touching followed by Craig's.
I think I have the most compassion for Craig.
He sure has gone through a lot and is still struggling with letting God having control over his life. But then again, don't we all?
I know I do. Do you?
These characters will always have a special place in my heart because of what obstacles they have come through to come out on top.
I spent half the night reading this touching story because it was so good! You won't want to put it down until it is finished and believe me when I say that you'll be thinking about these amazing characters g after the book is finished. I know I am!!
My thanks to Just Reads and the author for a complimentary copy of this book.
NO compensations were received and I was NOT required to write a positive review for this book. All Opinions are my own.
March 2, 2020
The author had me at the cover and book blurb.
Dealing with special needs individuals can be tasking as well as rewarding and the author wrote a lovely tale of that with a wonderful dose of romance.
The beautiful romance between Anna and Craig was so beautiful. Their work together to prepare the team for the competition was so admirable. It was wonderful hoe Anna threw herself into helping others instead of wallowing in self pity and wasting her talent. Her determination was a very admirable character. Craig did have a lot to learn from Anna’s disposition. It was beautiful how the walls around his heart crumbles to love.
Beautiful tale of love, determination, and courage to triumph.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Dealing with special needs individuals can be tasking as well as rewarding and the author wrote a lovely tale of that with a wonderful dose of romance.
The beautiful romance between Anna and Craig was so beautiful. Their work together to prepare the team for the competition was so admirable. It was wonderful hoe Anna threw herself into helping others instead of wallowing in self pity and wasting her talent. Her determination was a very admirable character. Craig did have a lot to learn from Anna’s disposition. It was beautiful how the walls around his heart crumbles to love.
Beautiful tale of love, determination, and courage to triumph.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
January 8, 2020
As a parent of a child with autism, I am passionate about celebrating the awesomeness of those with disabilities. With delicate strokes, Denise Weimer paints a beautifully accurate portrait of the special needs community, honoring the courage, intelligence, and resilience of these brilliant souls. Add in vibrant characters and a tender romance, and Spring Splash equals a charming novel worthy of recommendation.
February 28, 2020
As the mother to an autistic child, I must admit that I judge books featuring characters with autism pretty harshly. There are a lot of misconceptions about autism, as well as negative attitudes towards it that often show up in fictional depictions of it. As such I'm always a little apprehensive. Still, I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised with Spring Splash in that regard. It had great reminders that autistic people or those with other various special needs are more than capable of both making their own decisions and speaking for themselves. Though a few of the characters at times didn't reflect that attitude, in the end it was made clear that the author did. While it's certainly not a comprehensive guide to autism or special needs by any means, it did address the subject quite respectfully and fairly accurately for the particular characters featured.
Of course, that's all great to know but I'm sure you're wondering... what about the actual story itself? It was just as impressive! I really enjoyed watching this sweet romance develop between Craig and Anna as they worked with this team to prepare them for competition. It was a fairly fast paced story and quick to read, keeping me intrigued right through the very end. There were certainly some moments I wanted to yell at the characters to encourage them to see the chemistry that we as the readers saw, but again that kept me interested.
Overall, this was a cute romance and one that has me looking forward to see more from the author.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
Of course, that's all great to know but I'm sure you're wondering... what about the actual story itself? It was just as impressive! I really enjoyed watching this sweet romance develop between Craig and Anna as they worked with this team to prepare them for competition. It was a fairly fast paced story and quick to read, keeping me intrigued right through the very end. There were certainly some moments I wanted to yell at the characters to encourage them to see the chemistry that we as the readers saw, but again that kept me interested.
Overall, this was a cute romance and one that has me looking forward to see more from the author.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
May 5, 2020
In this contemporary romance, Anna Callaway is a college student aspiring to be a competitive swimmer at the national level or beyond. When she is temporarily sidelined by an injury, she is devastated. What she doesn't know is that a sports marketing practicum with a special needs organization could change her heart and life.
I loved seeing Anna's growth with special needs athletes and in the business world. What I struggled with was the hot and cold relationship between Anna and Craig. Their relationship started and ended well. It was the in between arguments and relational difficulties that were rather frequent.
Overall, this was a good read. I look forward to reading the author's suspense novel.
My gratitude for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
I loved seeing Anna's growth with special needs athletes and in the business world. What I struggled with was the hot and cold relationship between Anna and Craig. Their relationship started and ended well. It was the in between arguments and relational difficulties that were rather frequent.
Overall, this was a good read. I look forward to reading the author's suspense novel.
My gratitude for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
March 24, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
This story was different for me because I’ve never read as story about competitive swimmers. And though I know a couple of kids with autism, I have read only a couple of books about this disease. Getting to know these characters and follow their everyday life as they lived with their disability. It is amazing what these people could do. I like that author Denise Weimer does such a great job of making sure each character was their own person, and despite their disability, they did have a purpose in life.
This is a well written story, the characters wonderfully created, the plot flows well, and the story can help others dealing with their own disabilities. I think this would be a great book for anyone, especially younger people that are dealing with any type of disability, regardless of what it is.
I would like to thank the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This story was different for me because I’ve never read as story about competitive swimmers. And though I know a couple of kids with autism, I have read only a couple of books about this disease. Getting to know these characters and follow their everyday life as they lived with their disability. It is amazing what these people could do. I like that author Denise Weimer does such a great job of making sure each character was their own person, and despite their disability, they did have a purpose in life.
This is a well written story, the characters wonderfully created, the plot flows well, and the story can help others dealing with their own disabilities. I think this would be a great book for anyone, especially younger people that are dealing with any type of disability, regardless of what it is.
I would like to thank the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
March 6, 2020
My Thoughts on Spring Splash by Denise Weimer
Suggested Beverage Pairing: Pepsi Float
Characterization
Anna Callaway is a typical college student: sure of her abilities, but struggling to determine how to apply them in the real world. Anna is driven to perform well at everything she does. She doesn’t understand the word no. Once Anna makes up her mind, she goes to work with everything she’s got.
Anna feels she has to be best at everything. She also feels she’s living in her older sister’s shadow. The time has come for Anna to find her own place in the world, though.
Craig Holt is a young adult who had to grow up in a hurry after the loss of his parents. He is the caretaker for a disabled sibling and the director of recreational programs at the Oconee Champions Program, a facility for families with special needs members. Craig has restructured his entire life to be able to care for his sister.
Due to decisions he made as a high school aged sibling, Craig protects not only his sister, but all his athletes from anything he feels might bring them discomfort. All his layers of protection, including those on his own heart, are challenged by Anna Callaway.
The Plot
Five stars for the special Spring Splash by Denise Weimer.
It is fair to say I’ve never read a book with this setting. I’ve read several featuring one or two characters with special needs, but this is a first where the setting was based around special needs facilities and families.
Anna and Craig are pushed together by Anna’s need to complete a practicum and Craig’s need to get publicity for the Spring Games for the OCP. Craig is reserved and steady. Anna is impulsive and ready for a challenge.
Craig needs Anna’s help, but gets a little overwhelmed when Anna decides to help in ways he never wanted her to help.
Through Craig’s mentoring of Anna, and Anna’s pushing Craig’s boundaries, the member of the OCP swim team gets more opportunities to compete than they had anticipated. Minor characters in the book find major success in unexpected ways while Craig and Anna struggle to find a balance between a work and personal relationship.
Every time Craig pushes Anna away from his personal life, Anna comes back with a solution to whatever the issue might be. It’s only when the professionalism between a student and mentor is questioned that the relationship seems to come to a screeching halt.
Is the old saying really true? Do opposites attract? Will Anna choose loving a man who will care for his disabled sister for all of his life over returning to competition? Or will she jump back in the pool and leave the OCP Swim Team and coach beached?
A sweet read with faith woven into the plot line in a natural and realistic manner.
Suggested Beverage Pairing: Pepsi Float
Characterization
Anna Callaway is a typical college student: sure of her abilities, but struggling to determine how to apply them in the real world. Anna is driven to perform well at everything she does. She doesn’t understand the word no. Once Anna makes up her mind, she goes to work with everything she’s got.
Anna feels she has to be best at everything. She also feels she’s living in her older sister’s shadow. The time has come for Anna to find her own place in the world, though.
Craig Holt is a young adult who had to grow up in a hurry after the loss of his parents. He is the caretaker for a disabled sibling and the director of recreational programs at the Oconee Champions Program, a facility for families with special needs members. Craig has restructured his entire life to be able to care for his sister.
Due to decisions he made as a high school aged sibling, Craig protects not only his sister, but all his athletes from anything he feels might bring them discomfort. All his layers of protection, including those on his own heart, are challenged by Anna Callaway.
The Plot
Five stars for the special Spring Splash by Denise Weimer.
It is fair to say I’ve never read a book with this setting. I’ve read several featuring one or two characters with special needs, but this is a first where the setting was based around special needs facilities and families.
Anna and Craig are pushed together by Anna’s need to complete a practicum and Craig’s need to get publicity for the Spring Games for the OCP. Craig is reserved and steady. Anna is impulsive and ready for a challenge.
Craig needs Anna’s help, but gets a little overwhelmed when Anna decides to help in ways he never wanted her to help.
Through Craig’s mentoring of Anna, and Anna’s pushing Craig’s boundaries, the member of the OCP swim team gets more opportunities to compete than they had anticipated. Minor characters in the book find major success in unexpected ways while Craig and Anna struggle to find a balance between a work and personal relationship.
Every time Craig pushes Anna away from his personal life, Anna comes back with a solution to whatever the issue might be. It’s only when the professionalism between a student and mentor is questioned that the relationship seems to come to a screeching halt.
Is the old saying really true? Do opposites attract? Will Anna choose loving a man who will care for his disabled sister for all of his life over returning to competition? Or will she jump back in the pool and leave the OCP Swim Team and coach beached?
A sweet read with faith woven into the plot line in a natural and realistic manner.
March 3, 2020
Wow! What a wonderful and unique story! From the first few chapters I was completely hooked! I loved every facet of this story, but I have to say that Margo completely stole my heart! Margo is one of the main special needs swimmers, and she just shines! I am blessed to have several special needs individuals in my life and, like Margo and others in the book, they are such amazing people with hearts bigger than you can imagine, and fiercely loyal, which Margo portrays beautifully. The main characters also face their own struggles of self discovery, letting go of things they can't control, and embracing the beauty of the moment, even if it's not where they thought they'd be.
Writing characters that are different than the "normal" was very brave, and I thought the author did an incredible job of showing the many challenges that a lot of us face with our special needs children. There is a moment in the book where one of the main characters is interviewing one of the mothers that has a son with Down Syndrome on the team, and what she said in her interview actually brought tears to my eyes. Though my son doesn't have the same prognosis as some of the characters in the book he does have Aspergers, and we face our own unique struggles that many others with special needs face, and I could see a lot of our story in this novel, which was refreshing and very moving.
Admirably written, Spring Splash will take you on a rare journey with fantastic characters, superb writing, and imaginative scenery, placing you right there in the natatorium, in that pool, cheering these incredible individuals on. Hands down a must read!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
Writing characters that are different than the "normal" was very brave, and I thought the author did an incredible job of showing the many challenges that a lot of us face with our special needs children. There is a moment in the book where one of the main characters is interviewing one of the mothers that has a son with Down Syndrome on the team, and what she said in her interview actually brought tears to my eyes. Though my son doesn't have the same prognosis as some of the characters in the book he does have Aspergers, and we face our own unique struggles that many others with special needs face, and I could see a lot of our story in this novel, which was refreshing and very moving.
Admirably written, Spring Splash will take you on a rare journey with fantastic characters, superb writing, and imaginative scenery, placing you right there in the natatorium, in that pool, cheering these incredible individuals on. Hands down a must read!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
March 5, 2020
This is story is an excellent one that covers a variety of topics, but centers around competitive sports (mostly swimming) and autism. I enjoyed the characters and getting to know them, with their struggles and triumphs. The author does an excellent job of bringing this story to life! I look forward to reading more of Denise's books!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
March 19, 2020
I enjoyed this unique story. It was unlike any other book that I have read before. Spring Splash weaves together a love story, a special needs sports program, as well as the personal sports and career aspirations of the main character, Anna. I thought the author did a very good job of presenting all three of these story lines cohesively and in a realistic way.
I felt like I really got to know the special needs swimmers in this tale, finding out what made them nervous and what motivated each of them to be part of the program. I enjoyed learning a lot about Craig’s sister, Margo, and seeing how things progressed in the book for her.
I enjoyed the love story between Craig and Anna, although Craig frustrated me at times, as he had a lot of worry that he carried around with him. When certain events would go wrong, he didn’t always handle things well with Anna, leading to hurt feelings or misunderstandings. However, he did grow a lot emotionally by the end of the book. I would have loved to have had an epilogue at the end of Spring Splash to see how things were going for everyone a year or so in the future.
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...
I felt like I really got to know the special needs swimmers in this tale, finding out what made them nervous and what motivated each of them to be part of the program. I enjoyed learning a lot about Craig’s sister, Margo, and seeing how things progressed in the book for her.
I enjoyed the love story between Craig and Anna, although Craig frustrated me at times, as he had a lot of worry that he carried around with him. When certain events would go wrong, he didn’t always handle things well with Anna, leading to hurt feelings or misunderstandings. However, he did grow a lot emotionally by the end of the book. I would have loved to have had an epilogue at the end of Spring Splash to see how things were going for everyone a year or so in the future.
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...
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June 1, 2021
Anna Callaway was swimming at her best as a part of her college swim team until an injury forces her out of the pool. While she is trying to rehabilitate, she moves forward on her practicum. Craig Holt might need help with running his swim team for special needs swimmers, but he is not convinced that Anna can take direction enough to really help. Will the two of them learn to trust each other? Will Anna get a second chance to swim?
I am not sure if I have read a book about a swimmer before. What I liked about this topic is the author tackled swimming for multiple directions - an athlete, coach, director and those who could finally freedom from their "disabilities" in the water. Getting to "know" these special athletes added such depth to the book. Plus the author did a great job of explaining certain terminology about what it is like to be a Special Olympics athlete and how sometimes people can say things that are insensitive.
In the author's notes, she mentions that her kids spent a lot of time on swim teams. Her expertise is evident in how she presents the swimming. She had a way to convey pool terms to those who may not be as familiar.
The romance was paced well. I think the two main characters struggled a bit in knowing how to be in a relationship. That rang true to life for me.
This is the second book that I have read by this author, and I have enjoyed them both. I would definitely read more of her titles.
I am not sure if I have read a book about a swimmer before. What I liked about this topic is the author tackled swimming for multiple directions - an athlete, coach, director and those who could finally freedom from their "disabilities" in the water. Getting to "know" these special athletes added such depth to the book. Plus the author did a great job of explaining certain terminology about what it is like to be a Special Olympics athlete and how sometimes people can say things that are insensitive.
In the author's notes, she mentions that her kids spent a lot of time on swim teams. Her expertise is evident in how she presents the swimming. She had a way to convey pool terms to those who may not be as familiar.
The romance was paced well. I think the two main characters struggled a bit in knowing how to be in a relationship. That rang true to life for me.
This is the second book that I have read by this author, and I have enjoyed them both. I would definitely read more of her titles.
April 18, 2020
Spring Splash is a contemporary romance novel by author Denise Weimer.
Anna Callaway snatched my interest from the first chapter, all the way to the end. I hope to see Anna and Craig Holt in future stories by this author.
The story took me away to years past when my youngest child was a star student at a local special needs program, such as that mentioned in this book.
There is something for most readers in this sweet story. More than just a romance story, It’s also a sports story featuring special needs folks. You’ll also want to read the author’s note. Oh yes, about those tissues…they will be needed.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Anna Callaway snatched my interest from the first chapter, all the way to the end. I hope to see Anna and Craig Holt in future stories by this author.
The story took me away to years past when my youngest child was a star student at a local special needs program, such as that mentioned in this book.
There is something for most readers in this sweet story. More than just a romance story, It’s also a sports story featuring special needs folks. You’ll also want to read the author’s note. Oh yes, about those tissues…they will be needed.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
June 12, 2020
A heartwarming story highlighting the determination one needs, firstly to excel in a sport and secondly to stay the distance in caring for people with special needs. Anna has that determination even after an injury forces her to consider her future swimming career and what is important in her life. Her introduction to Craig, falling for him literally, drops her into another world, one where the people are capable and even outstanding in their own ways, but not in the ways of NT's... This world is probably foreign to a great many people who are oblivious to the effort parents, teachers and carers put into giving children with special needs a quality of life many take for granted. Craig has made a courageous decision to forgo his own plans to care for his sister, one that severely impacts his whole life. Anna is spirited and willing to learn and persevere to coach. I loved the way Denise has written this story, a pleasure to read.
May 12, 2020
Extra Special People Meet Stubborn Swimmer
Craig is the director of local sports and educational facility for special needs students. Anna is a sports marketing senior at the local university who has been competing in swim meets since childhood. Anna has to do her sports marketing practicum at Craig's facility. They butt heads almost from the beginning about the swim participants. A thrilling romance surrounding Craig's need to control, and Anna's challenge to be a Nationals bound, but also to help these kids she's fallen in love with. Denise Weimer, you've done an excellent job presenting the real challenges of this special group of people in a novel with realistic characters.
Craig is the director of local sports and educational facility for special needs students. Anna is a sports marketing senior at the local university who has been competing in swim meets since childhood. Anna has to do her sports marketing practicum at Craig's facility. They butt heads almost from the beginning about the swim participants. A thrilling romance surrounding Craig's need to control, and Anna's challenge to be a Nationals bound, but also to help these kids she's fallen in love with. Denise Weimer, you've done an excellent job presenting the real challenges of this special group of people in a novel with realistic characters.
January 18, 2021
I highly recommend this book to anyone who participates in swim competitions. The author included much technical detail as her two daughters have participated in swimming.
Anna Callaway's swimming career crumbled when she was injured in a race. She was very distraught and lost confidence in her abilities.
Anna needs to finish her marketing practicum and is told to observe and take photos of a special needs swim team. Along the way she falls in love with Craig Holt, the coach of this special needs team.
Both Anna and Craig need to overcome their fears and misconceptions. There is a lot of back and forth in this romance. Both grew in leaps and bounds.
I liked very much how Anna became a champion for this group of swimmers.
Anna Callaway's swimming career crumbled when she was injured in a race. She was very distraught and lost confidence in her abilities.
Anna needs to finish her marketing practicum and is told to observe and take photos of a special needs swim team. Along the way she falls in love with Craig Holt, the coach of this special needs team.
Both Anna and Craig need to overcome their fears and misconceptions. There is a lot of back and forth in this romance. Both grew in leaps and bounds.
I liked very much how Anna became a champion for this group of swimmers.
March 16, 2020
I loved reading this book! I could hardly make myself put it down and finished it in one day. While reading this book, I learned so much about people with special needs and swimming. I loved all of the characters and their unique, individual selves. Anna learns that life isn't a competition and to relax and enjoy all that life and God can offer her. Craig learns that his sister's special needs will not always restrict him in ways that he thought and to trust others more. I also loved that the story took place near where I live, so I can more accurately picture parts of the story. Overall, another great story from author Denise Weimer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2020
A sweet contemporary romance that takes the reader into the world of competitive swimming and special needs teenagers. She navigates the intricacies of both these topics very well and educates the reader without being harsh and condemning. The romance between Anna and Craig was very sweet and I love how they encouraged and cared for each other. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but am voluntarily leaving a review of my own opinions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but am voluntarily leaving a review of my own opinions.
March 3, 2020
This book is so much more than a romance. This is a well written story that deals with the special needs community and shows how much courage these people have. This book was a very heartwarming read. I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 10, 2020
Denise Weimar has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I have read everything she has written to date and loved each one. This one certainly did not disappoint. It is a well-written, beautiful, heartwarming story. Since my daughter worked with special needs children in the school system, this one especially touched my heart. I look forward with great anticipation to reading her next book.
February 7, 2021
Such a good read!
Compassionate and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by the mentally handicapped and their families. Also this was very educational in a sports category about which I knew very little; that sport being swimming.
Compassionate and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by the mentally handicapped and their families. Also this was very educational in a sports category about which I knew very little; that sport being swimming.
Read
March 5, 2020Spring Splash was a fun, heartfelt book. I was rooting for the swim team, and I liked how the book played out. I hope to read more from this author.
June 16, 2020
Anna's Choice
When Anna was placed as a practicum with a special needs group while recovering from a swimming injury, little did she know how it would change her life!
When Anna was placed as a practicum with a special needs group while recovering from a swimming injury, little did she know how it would change her life!
June 20, 2020
Best read
One
Of the most inspirational books I have read in years .
A must read for anyone with goals
Thank you. Denise Weimar
One
Of the most inspirational books I have read in years .
A must read for anyone with goals
Thank you. Denise Weimar
January 28, 2021
Great topic driven book: competitive swim and special needs.
August 16, 2021
This is an engaging read, even for those of us with no athletic experience. Anna Callaway’s a college marketing senior with an assignment she feels unprepared for: assist with a promotion for a group of special needs kids. She’s soon captivated by the kids, however, as well as their handsome coach, Craig Holt. She ends up volunteering to assist the coach with swim practice and urging him to enter the swim team in the Special Olympics.
Beyond the details about preparing for swim contests, Weimer describes the unique issues of families with special needs children. I believe every reader will come away with a better understanding and appreciation for those who may be undervalued.
Beyond the details about preparing for swim contests, Weimer describes the unique issues of families with special needs children. I believe every reader will come away with a better understanding and appreciation for those who may be undervalued.
January 5, 2021
This was quite a different book, with unique out of the box story telling to be sure. I enjoyed the athlete part of it, but the differently abled athletes and neurotypical both were told in a way that you were drawn to them. There were some things that I wished for a bit of a tighter storyline, and I kind of wanted there to not be any romance, but overall an enjoyable read.
July 7, 2023
Inspirational
This novel provides thought provoking information on the unique value and talents if every person and the importance of being accepted, valued and challenged to be our best.
This novel provides thought provoking information on the unique value and talents if every person and the importance of being accepted, valued and challenged to be our best.
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