Stand Alone

Sola #4

by Ruth E. Meyer

Grace Neunaber has entered a new phase of life. With two grandchildren and her second child college-bound, she’s rethinking what to do with her quiet days while the kids are at school. But she’s not the only one with decisions to make.

Thanks to a football injury, Jackson Williams’ college plans have been turned upside down. His confidence and ego have been shattered along with his dream of a football scholarship. Yet he’s challenged to grow both by his accident and by his best friend, Sam.

With so many uncertainties for the whole family, Grace will have to muster her self-confidence in the face of change. And Jackson will have to choose what kind of person he wants to become—a man who shirks responsibility and caves to circumstance or a man who stands up for what’s right when life knocks him down. Even when it means standing alone.

Genres: Christian, Christian Fiction, Contemporary

372 pages, Paperback

Published September 20, 2019

About the author

Ruth Meyer graduated from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a degree in church music and no plans whatsoever to become an author. But a student of the week project for her son inspired "Our Faith From A to Z," a children's picture book. After that, it was only a matter of time before she caught the fiction bug. As both the daughter of and the wife of a pastor, Ruth has moved around a lot and had many experiences that provide ideas for her writing. Currently, she resides in rural Texas with her husband, their five children, and two dogs. It is her hope that through her writing, readers are assured of God's grace through His Son, Jesus.

Connect with Ruth on her website, ruthmeyerbooks.com, or follow her on Facebook under Ruth E. Meyer.

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

STAND ALONE is Book #4 of the Sola Series. I am reviewing this book without having read the previous three books but still worked well in getting to know Grace and the rest of the family.

To recap the other three books:
Grace Alone the first book focuses on Grace as a single mother of four and dealing with issues with her ex-husband. Grace’s life is quite messy as she struggles raising her family alone. The second book, Faith Alone, follows Grace after struggling for years, and now has her newfound faith and marriage to a strong Christian man, David. In the third installation, Faith Alone is focused on Grace’s oldest daughter, Faith Williams who is managing single motherhood on top of college plans.

This fourth installation is focused on Jackson their second child. Grace Neunaber has entered a new phase of life now with two grandchildren and Jackson college-bound and
with a football injury, where Jackson Williams' college plans and a football scholarship is now affected.

Ruth Meyer is a brilliant writer that has weaved a beautiful saga about family and gives hope by trusting in our faith and that the love and support of a family can overcome even the toughest of all circumstances.

[Jes Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has been a rollercoaster, and this latest addition is no different. It's been great watching this family of saved sinners as they navigate life- the good, the bad, and the ugly. This novel focused most on Jackson as he graduates and goes off to college, and the people in his sphere of influence, but we don't forget about the rest of the family, and get several chapters from the others as well. I love how Christ-centered and pro-life this series is while still being realistic and gritty. It's what Christian movies try to be, and everyone should read this series.

I received a copy of this book from the author, and the thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mary Moerbe · Rating 4 out of 5]

To recap, Grace Alone focuses on Grace, a single mother, but introduces her at times wild but lovable family. Faith Alone plows deeper into family life with extended attention on Faith. Then Hope Alone digs even deeper into family & romantic complications and all sorts of other drama that life tends to throw our way.

Stand Alone certainly keeps a family feel and an emphasis on just how wholesome an affect a Christian family can have on those they interact with. At the same time, Jackson, the second oldest, takes the lead as he faces head on problems beyond his control, friendship, romance, college, and just how shape-shifting life can sometimes be.

Once again Ruth Meyer does not shy away from asking hard Christian questions. Once again she tries to address hard issues that frankly surround us more and more. And that is to be commended.

Ok. But Ruth? I NEEDED MORE KATIE! Come on. Will she star in the next one?!

[Kaitlyn S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book from Ruth Meyer! She is quickly becoming a favourite author, and I was *so* happy to be able to review another one of her books.

This book followed along Jackson, the second child of Grace and David Nuenaber. It picked up a few years after the last one ended, with Jackson a senior in high school. While the book was mainly about Jackson, and his struggles as he grows and matures, I was delighted to be able to visit once again with Spencer and Faith and their two children, and to catch a few snippets of Freddie's life, and a teensy bit of Kate. I wish there was more of both those two, but maybe in the next book?

When the book starts, Jackson is the same old cocky guy that we've known. When he becomes injured while playing football, the Lord begins to deal with him and starts to soften his heart a bit. There's still the same tough guy persona, but he starts to mature and grow up a bit, doing things he wouldn't ordinarily do while he's stuck on the couch recuperating. Like painting his sisters nails =)

By the time he leaves for college, I had connected to this guy in a way I hadn't through the other books. He was always kinda a jerk I felt, and at times he needed a good shaking. But here . . . he grew up. He was loveable, and protecting, and striving to be an honourable man. And I really admired him for that.

There were several times he demonstrated his character growing deeper and more thoughtful. As he deals with various girls -- not in a boyfriend/girlfriend type of way, but in a brotherly/good friend way -- he offers sound advice and treats them with chivalry. He takes a stand for chastity in a world that is sorely lacking it, and he stands up to other college guys when they start speaking in a crude, course way about young ladies. He goes out of his way to protect the girls, recognizing that he would hate it if someone spoke that way about his sisters, or, one day, his daughters.

He takes a strong pro-life stance in the book, and that was interesting to read. While the pro-life movement definitely needs guys involved, I'm not sure I've ever read a book that has a guy standing up as strongly as Jackson did for the unborn, and that was admirable. I also appreciated the way he took many opportunities throughout the book to think about what he believed concerning God and his convictions. Jackson took the opportunity several times to share the gospel, and witness with others, and that was sweet to read!

The addition of Sam to the cast of characters was wonderful, and I would love to read more about her and get to know her. The way she encourages Jackson to forgive his father, despite his aggravation at her for doing so, was a wonderful demonstration of what a true friend should be. Her reluctance to start a dating relationship with this guy was understandable, although I do wish she would have explained better to Jackson.

By the books end, I barely recognized the strong guy that was profiled there. I've known Jackson for a while, but this side of him that developed was amazing. There were still aspects of the "old" Jackson, with his quick temper, and I felt like I was watching my brother grow up. And I loved the way Faith and Jackson's relationship grew over the course of the book, and how much Uncle Jackson interacted with his nephew and niece.

I would recommend this for older readers -- there are mentions of date rape, drinking, unwed pregnancies, and "sleeping around". There are instances of guys speaking about girls in a very unchaste way, although it is stopped and it doesn't go "too far" by any means. None of these things are glorified, they are all condemned, but they are still mentioned.

This was book #4. This was one of the least "stand alone" books of this series -- If I had not read the previous ones, I would have been mighty confused. I would say you definitely needed to read at the very least the book before this one to better understand. ((But I highly advocate you should read all of them, because they are really good, so there is that, too :D))

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Thank you to JustRead Tours for gifting me a copy of this book!

[MJSH · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars for this book from a new-to-me author Ruth Meyer. The book happens to be book 4 in the Sola series and I wish I would have had the foresight to read at least one previous book in the series before picking this one up. Alas, I lacked this foresight and spent a bit of time trying to place characters into their proper places in this epic family drama. There are many voices in this episode in the lives of Neunaber-Williams family. For those who have been following the series, I’m sure seeing the matured versions of Faith and Spencer would be delightful and watching Jackson become a beacon of light in darkness would be joyful.
The author addresses pretty intense issues like the need for better mental health support and having enduring faith even when facing death or ridicule. There is plenty of high school and middle school drama, teen romance, family tension, and every day life with its struggles and triumphs as well as greater overarching theme of forgiveness and grace. Reading this book is like watching an episode of a well-orchestrated TV family drama.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher/author via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost, it should be noted that this is book number four in The Sola Series by Ruth Meyer. I must admit, this is the only book in the series I had read. However, despite the fact that it seems each book is a continuation of the story of this family, I feel like everything was recapped very well and it didn't feel like I was picking up in the middle of the story. I certainly would love to go back and read the others and get to know this family a little better, and would certainly recommend starting at the beginning if you're able. If you don't though, this is good as a stand alone too (no pun intended).

In this story, we meet (or pick up with) Grace Neunaber and her rather busy family. Her family is growing up and we join her as she deals with that stage of life and makes the decision to return to college. Her story alternates with that of her son Jackson. In the very first chapter we meet this star football player and see as his dreams of playing college ball are put into question when he's injured during a game. It was really quite interesting to see these two experiences side by side--- different stages in their lives as they may have been, they were both still facing the same big question of finding their dreams and their purpose.

I must say that I really enjoyed Jackson's part of this story more than anything, but I loved getting to know the entire family. Something about this book just felt very genuine to me. The characters- though strong Christians- weren't perfect. They had struggles with forgiveness, relationships and past hurts that they were dealing with. It tackled some pretty huge issues like abortion and rape... and it did so in a very real way. There was a lot of talk about faith and I could see where some who don't particularly enjoy that in a story might find it a bit preachy... but to me because of the brokenness of the characters, it made it that much more relate-able. It was a great reminder that we are Christians not because we are perfect, but because we ALL struggle and need help.

This open and imperfect type of story might not be everyone's cup of tea, but personally I really enjoyed it. This was the first book I has read by the author but it certainly will not be the last.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.

[Mikayla Schmitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I did not read the previous books in this series, Stand Alone was a great example of what I'm sure the others will be. It is a good read and I will definitely keep this book on my shelf. It is relatable to our everyday lives and the struggles that each family goes through.

I will say that while there are no major triggers, some readers may want to be wary of the subjects broached in this book. The main characters go through a lot in Stand Alone. This includes a major athletic injury from the view point of the victim and the victim's mother, it touches on the terminal illness of cystic fibrosis, one of the supporting characters gets an abortion and you can see the effects of the aftermath, you find out a character with schizophrenia was imprisoned for murder after failing to take his meds, several instances of the parents of a child arguing before coming to the decision to separate permanently, and several mentions of rape/party scenes where a man has the intention of raping a college girl.

All that being said, the book had a great storyline, was intriguing, and really played on the whole 'family' aspect. While their lives were not perfect, the families in this book relied heavily on each other, especially in hard times. It wasn't boring like so many books can be after awhile, and kept you guessing as to what was going to happen in the end.

[Katie P (3HeartsAndAWish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Just Read Tours for the copy.

Stand Alone is the fourth book in the Sola series. I didn’t read the first three books in the series, but you could read this one on its own. I did feel like I missed a lot of the backstories of the characters, though.

This book is definitely Christian fiction and has a good deal of religious talk in it. The characters were developed well and I liked that even this is a Christian book there were still some heavy topics discussed. I also liked the importance of family that was thematic throughout the story. There were almost too many issues brought up, I think it would’ve been better if it concentrated on a couple big ones central to the plot.

Overall a nice story following the characters in the series.

[Ruth Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Done with my proofing and off to formatting now. I don’t know, maybe it’s cheap to rate your own book, but I’ve seen other authors do it, so I will too! If you like Jackson, you’ll want to add this book to your list. He’s the main character in this one, and I like him more and more the older he gets!

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stand Alone is the fourth book in Ruth E. Meyer’s Sola series, and while you won’t be lost if you read this as a stand-alone (no pun intended!) I suspect it would be more engaging for readers who have been following the ups and downs of this family’s story from the first book. (I haven’t.) I say this because, rather than following the more traditional plot structure where there is a particular goal or conflict driving the story to its conclusion, this plot unfolded more like a series of “what happened next” episodes in the lives of the Neunaber family—more interesting to those already acquainted with the family than those just meeting them for the first time.

As I sit back now and think about the story, I think there are two main reasons I found it difficult to become fully invested in this story. The first was a lack of overall direction to the plot. I didn’t get a sense of where these characters wanted or needed to be by the end of the book, so the obstacles that arose were inconveniences rather than crisis points that gave the story meaningful momentum. I also felt that the inclusion of Faith’s (Jackson’s sister’s) point of view diluted the story rather than enhancing it. The second thing that affected my engagement was the narrative style, which distanced me from the characters’ thoughts and emotions rather than immersing me in them.

That being said, readers who are looking for fiction that features a family dealing with the ups and downs of life from a Christian perspective may find this is exactly what they’re looking for. Over the course of the series, this family has worked through or encountered a wide range of issues from organ transplants to unwed pregnancy to reconciliation and more. If this is what you’re looking for, I do recommend beginning with the first book in this series.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read in this series, and I have to admit that was a mistake. There were a few times where I felt like I was missing something - whether it was a back story, or an understanding about who a character was. This may have been one of the reasons I struggled with the story, so those who have read the entire series may feel differently. For those who haven't, I do not recommend reading this as a stand alone.

I did, however, enjoy all the POVs presented in this book. Sometimes more than one or two can be overwhelming. But this made up for all the pieces I felt like I was missing. It let me take a deeper look into more characters, and understand how the story really affected those involved. The main messages to me were faith and forgiveness, and I feel like if Meyer had not showcased all these POVs, readers may have missed that.

Overall I would recommend this book to those who have already read the series. Meyer easily slips in a faith thread that will speak to a reader's heart. I think at a later date I may try reading this series from the beginning, and see if my views on this particular story change. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Becca Rae · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stand Alone is the fourth book in the Sola series but it was the first one that I read. I was told that it could be read as a standalone and for the most part I would agree, but there were parts that I felt like I was missing out on some important details that I would know more about had I started at the beginning. Although I enjoyed the book, it wasn't one that I felt fully sucked into and I'm not sure why. I took a peek at some other reviews and I think I might agree with the comment that it felt like there was too much dialogue. I struggled to able to really get into the heads of the characters. Sam's father also bugged me because it felt like he'd had a complete personality change over the course of a few days instead of just in regards to what had caused his initial outburst. There were a few things that just seemed too far-fetched. My emotions really are mixed because I thought it was an interesting story and it had a lot of good content, but there were also elements that lost my attention.

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

This is the fourth book in Ruth Meyer’s Sola series but the first one I’ve read. While the book can be read on its own, there were a couple mentions of backstory from previous books that had me feeling left in the dark. However, it did interest me in reading the previous books so perhaps it was intentional on the author’s part.

The ensemble cast includes Jackson, Grace, Faith, David, and a few more characters. While I’m not usually a huge fan of more than two or three points of view in a novel, Meyer made this work. I felt like a part of this large, involved, caring, sometimes embarrassing family as the members navigate through life’s challenges, difficult choices, and celebrations.

I enjoyed the discussion about faith and Jackson’s growth throughout the book, but I was a little disappointed one of the storylines wasn’t hashed out by the end. Since there is mention of a fifth book coming next year in the author’s note, hopefully, that will be resolved in the next installment.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Cheryl Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stand Alone is the fourth book in the Sola series by Ruth Meyer, it continues the story line of the Neunaber and Williams families. One could read this book without having to start from book one, however I enjoy reading a series knowing all the characters and backgrounds.
There are some tough real-life situations that the author addresses and the affects afterwards from a mental illness to an abortion. The message of hope, forgiveness and grace are evident throughout the book and the author shows that by trusting in our faith and the love of a family can overcome life’s issues that may be thrown at us.

I received a copy of Stand Alone from Just Read Tour in exchange for my honest opinion.

[HeatherS · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book four in the Sola series, but I was told it could be read without already having read the first three in the series. I do agree that this is true, although I feel like more background about the family this story revolves around would have beneficial. There were definitely snippets of their background throughout the story so I wasn’t completely lost though, so I suppose it really depends on how well you want to know your characters. To me this book came across as typical Christian fiction in terms of the discussion between characters and the writing style. It did touch on some hard topics, so that was good and it helped the story to have some more dimensions. If you enjoy Christian Fiction and want a book you would be able to recommend to readers who appreciate books that center around faith and moral issues then this may be a good recommendation. Again, I do agree you can read this one on it’s own, but a person may prefer to start with book one and work their way through this series to provide a more comprehensive overview of this fictional family. I personally think I would have preferred that myself.
Trigger Warnings: abortion, date rape, divorce (all handled in a very subtle and sensitive manor).
I received a complimentary copy of this book and a positive review was not required.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stand Alone is the 4th book in Ruth Meyer’s Sola series, and although it does continue the saga of the Williams and Neunaber families, it can quite easily be read by itself as most of the backstory is explained. Endearing characters make this an enjoyable read. I especially loved Jackson’s best friend Sam, what a dear, faithful friend, albeit with troubles of her own, she is to him. And Ms. Meyer so cleverly takes the self-absorbed, promiscuous Miranda and turns her into a real, caring friend. Only through the grace of God can people be transformed. This is a delightful story of not only spiritual healing but relationship healing as well.

I received a copy of this JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Robin Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book with mixed feelings and reaction. Much of the dialogue and interaction was deep and meaningful. It was loaded with strong messages of faith and forgiveness.
But then there was so much dialogue that felt awkward and stilted.
My greatest issue, though, was with the timeline after Jackson’s injury. Ms. Meyer states that her son suffered a similar injury but in the story Jackson’s recovery seemed rushed; I, too, have had personal experience with leg surgery and recovery, and found the timeline in the story extremely rushed and implausible.
Jackson had such a tender heart, and was such a good friend. I was happy with his choices and decisions in the end.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
THREE FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.


#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Stand Alone, Ruth E. Meyer

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stand Alone is not what I expected at all, but I was pleasantly surprised. Since I haven't read any of the other books in the series I was "flying blind" but honestly I don't think it made that much of a difference. The chapters are short, which helped me breeze right through, and the vibe is very laid back, which I also enjoyed.

I admired the realness, truly feeling like I was watching this family like a fly on the wall, which was a refreshing perspective. It's your typical family drama co-mingled with some pretty heavy subject matter that is handled in a very respectful way.

Each chapters point of view is shown so the perspective is is multifaceted, which makes for a deep, rich character development.

What really drew me in was this family and their love for one another, and the incredible power of grace and forgiveness. I really enjoyed Stand Alone and plan to go back and read the other books in the series.

*I have reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Ruth, which left me feeling a bit at a disadvantage, since it would of been good to read the previous books before diving in to this story! That said, after a little bit, I felt like I had a good feel for what had happened in the previous books that lead up to this one. Despite jumping in mid series, I was able to enjoy this book, since Grace and her family are presented with different challenges as they move to the next stage in life.
I enjoyed getting to know the kids, especially Jackson and the decisions that are before him as he finishes high school and deals with a sports related injury. I also feel like Grace's choice to go back to school will resonate with a lot of readers.
This is a delightful book about family and the different seasons that we go through with raising one. I look forward to reading more of Ruth's books!
I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.

[Jennifer Huppert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as a beta reader and as a launch team reader. This book handles some difficult situations, with grace in hand. It has its share of drama, along, with some situations that leave you in tears. However, Ruth Meyer does an excellent job of tying it all together. This Sola book focuses more on Jackson and Fred. Have you kleenexes handy, you will need them.

[Deb Kunkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Stand Alone, we are again invited into the Neunaber’s family life as Ruth Meyer weaves their stories and we see God’s hand in it all. Both family and friends struggle with tension in relationships and in following Christ’s example in both giving and accepting forgiveness. Growing in faith, when they trust in God’s plan, they are able to stand firm in the full armor of God.
We follow Jackson’s development as he wrestles with self-worth and career choices. A debilitating football injury sidelines Jackson and cause the star player to contemplate his real values and life goals.
We also are brought deeper into Jackson’s relationship with his friend, Sam, and learn more about her trials and dreams. We see how she continues to encourage Jackson to mend his relationship with his father and Jackson also challenges Sam to reconnect with her estranged brother.
We cheer when Jackson makes good choices based on his true beliefs and stands up, even when standing alone, for what he knows to be right in God’s sight. He stands up to his peers and is a good example for a man’s respect for women and cares for Miranda when she needs a true friend even when her own poor choices have put her in peril. The Neunabers are able to help Miranda come to terms with some poor life choices, accept their support and forgiveness, and perhaps ultimately, God’s, going forward in faith.
We get to see Freddie as he adjusts to high school, deals with bullies (with a bit of advice from Jackson), and develops his skills in music and art.
Faith and Spenser are at Ann Arbor and need a larger home for their expanding family. It is wonderful to see how God works everything out so beautifully for them and for Spenser’s mom, Vivian, struggling with depression and lack of purpose after her husband’s death.
Grace faces some new choices of her own with the children growing up and feeling “left behind” as she copes with major changes when Olivia and Andy move away. Grace amazes us as she takes a new path in life, even though she isn’t sure where God is leading her.
Sixth grade diva, Katie, learns some hard lessons in social media and little Evelyn and Charlotte are up to some exasperating but funny antics.
I won’t spoil the story by telling too much, but I was delighted to see Jackson’s growth in good character and relationship with his family, friends and especially with God throughout this book!

[Anthony Hessler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stand Alone, like the first three books in the Sola Series, is another phenomenal piece of writing. With a focus more on Grace’s son and his story, the book paints a beautiful and realistic scenario of a storyline to which many readers will relate - especially men. And like her other books, Ruth’s plot points and overall story will keep the reader turning pages and yearning for more. By the end, you’re sure to be rooting for the characters, and if I dare say, even cheering, “Go Blue!”

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read Stand Alone in one evening; the first of this author’s works I’ve read.
The storyline was okay for me, though I must say that perhaps the families in this story experienced numerous health and social issues that I believe would let anyone’s heads spinning! From pregnancy before marriage to abortion, to sudden death of a parent from cardiac arrest, to a high-school football star with a broken femur and broken dreams. Divorce and remarriage, parental abandonment, dysfunctional family relationships, liver transplants and heading back to college after 20 years. There are actually more, but I’m choosing to stop here.

For me, there was too many issues hitting a small number of people in a relatively short period of time. While I am not implying that such could not happen, although I certainly hope not, the implied ease with which each issue was handled, and moving on to the next, did not seem realistic to me. Multiple stressors such as these are known to produce mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, yet not one of the main characters sought any type of counseling.

The story seemed to bog down in places with dialogue, that while fairly good, simply lasted too long.

Seeing potential, I’d be willing to read another book in the series.

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.

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I would recommend starting at the beginning of this series for the best reading experience. This book reminds me of a Karen Kingsbury's Baxter Family meets Seventh Heaven mashup.

Readers have plenty of opportunities to step into the perspectives of several family members/friends from a variety of backgrounds and ages. Most of the characters are endearing and genuine despite the occasionally melodramatic crises which tend to pepper family dramas.

Overall, Stand Alone boasts a strong faith theme and promising characters readers can root for. In my opinion, the Sola series is a great choice for fans of faith-filled family dramas.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been a privilege to get to know the Williams/Neunaber family over the course of the first four books in the Sola Series. Stand Alone helps the reader learn more about Jackson, the oldest son in the family. I love the way Ruth Meyer shares the gospel message repeatedly as part of the story without it feeling forced. Jackson who was a bit of a bratty kid in his younger years has turned out well and is well on his way to becoming a strong Christian influence in the lives of others. I look forward to Book five due out next year - I’m already curious about who the main character will be.
Potential Area of Concern
As with other books in this series, drinking does play a part, although to a lesser degree than other books in their series. There are some scenes where the dangers of alcohol use and abuse are exposed. If alcohol use is a problem for you or those you might share the book with, proceed with caution.
Because of this, I would not feel comfortable adding this book to my K-12 Christian school library. It may be okay in some church libraries.
I want to thank JustRead Publicity Tours for the complimentary e-copy of Stand Alone.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well written book by Ruth Meyer in her Sola Series. Love, hope and forgiveness are central to this book as well as family and friendship. This book focuses on Jackson as he moves from high school to college and two of his best friends. How he helps one of these friends through a difficult time. I recommend reading this book to see what happens. How he brings hope to his friend and how he learns to forgive his father for abandoning his family years earlier.

[Leslie - Shobizreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫: 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 by @ruthmeyerauthor ⁣
Thanks to @justreadtours for the gifted copy of this book!⁣
⁣
I managed to squeeze in one final book for November and this is it! This book is actually the fourth in a series but I read it as a stand-alone. Side note: I now want to go back and read the previous three books after having met Grace Neunaber.⁣
⁣
In this book, we meet Grace who is remarried and raising kids from 4 year old twins to high school senior, Jackson. Her oldest daughter Faith is already out of the house married and has two kids (Grace’s grandchildren). This story primarily focuses on the story of Jackson as he is coming of age - it opens with him experiencing a serious injury during football that completely shifts his goals and his future college experience. We see Jackson experience a lot of growth and we see the complicated and nuances family dynamics for Grace, Jackson and other characters like Jackson’s brother in law Spencer and best friend Sam.⁣
⁣
The writing is rich and beautiful exploring family relationships, loss, mental illness, divorce and faith. The author does a great job of creating engaging dialogue and multi-faceted characters and family dynamics. I was pulled in immediately and loved watching the journey of this family.⁣

[Melissa Kwiatkowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked into this series from the first book, and the story continues to get better. The characters are extremely relatable and they encounter a variety of situations that make them question, but ultimately strengthen, their faith in God. In Stand Alone, we get an inside look into Jackson’s life. I thought it was extremely interesting given the fact that I’ve “watched” him grow up in the last couple of books. Every time Ruth publishes another book in this series, I just feel like I’m going back into my comfort zone with a family that I keep rooting for.