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Teaville Moral Society #3
Een schone lei
Mercy McClain is vastbesloten om de kinderen van Teaville te behoeden voor de pesterijen die zijzelf als kind heeft moeten doorstaan. Ze vindt veel voldoening in haar werk in het plaatselijke weeshuis en in haar taak als lid van het schoolbestuur. Als Aaron Firebrook, de grootste pestkop uit haar jeugd, solliciteert naar een functie als leraar, is ze er faliekant tegen dat hij wordt aangenomen.
Aaron beseft dat Mercy’s wantrouwen volkomen terecht is, maar hij is als een veranderd man naar zijn geboorteplaats teruggekeerd en wil vergeving vragen aan de mensen die hij slecht behandeld heeft. Hij verwacht niet dat Mercy hem zal mogen, maar hij kan wel laten zien dat hij nu het beste met de kinderen voorheeft.
Laten Mercy en Aaron hun toekomst bepalen door wrok en oude wonden, of kunnen ze het verleden overwinnen en samen met een schone lei beginnen?
Aaron beseft dat Mercy’s wantrouwen volkomen terecht is, maar hij is als een veranderd man naar zijn geboorteplaats teruggekeerd en wil vergeving vragen aan de mensen die hij slecht behandeld heeft. Hij verwacht niet dat Mercy hem zal mogen, maar hij kan wel laten zien dat hij nu het beste met de kinderen voorheeft.
Laten Mercy en Aaron hun toekomst bepalen door wrok en oude wonden, of kunnen ze het verleden overwinnen en samen met een schone lei beginnen?
413 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2018
31 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Jagears
19 books876 followersI would love to connect with you through newsletter! I only send big updates, releases, and important stuff: http://newsletters.melissajagears.com/
My Review Star System:
A rare solid 5 means I LOVED it or was so impressed that I bring these books up in random conversations.
4.5-4 means great story. Recommended.
I don't post 3 star or below for newer Christian fiction (conflict of interest--I might have to work with the author). But any 3s mean the author wrote a good story, just something about it made it not a favorite.
2 was not that great and never redeemed itself.
1 aggravated me so much or was so poorly done I DNF or if I did finish, I wished I could get my time back.
My Review Star System:
A rare solid 5 means I LOVED it or was so impressed that I bring these books up in random conversations.
4.5-4 means great story. Recommended.
I don't post 3 star or below for newer Christian fiction (conflict of interest--I might have to work with the author). But any 3s mean the author wrote a good story, just something about it made it not a favorite.
2 was not that great and never redeemed itself.
1 aggravated me so much or was so poorly done I DNF or if I did finish, I wished I could get my time back.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
May 10, 2018
A great third installment of the wonderful Teaville Moral Society series that did not fail to captivate me!
I absolutely loved the opening chapter...there is something unexpectedly endearing about a former bully who finds himself attracted to a woman he used to torment mercilessly as a child. It's a twist on the typical "redeemed rake" trope I have a penchant for, and worked wonderfully well in this book.
And also, a heroine who finds herself falling for her worst enemy...*swoon*
The romance in this book = highly, HIGHLY APPROVED. I was incredibly impressed at how swiftly and efficiently Jagears handled Mercy's growing attraction to Aaron, and Aaron's tender emotions for Mercy. Given the nature of the romance, there was the danger that feelings would come out of the blue or that things wouldn't make sense, but it was superbly well-done, easy to follow, and feelings progressed naturally and weren't developed overnight (which is a big pet peeve of mine in romances).
As usual, it was a pleasure to journey back to Teaville and follow the inhabitants about their business, meeting familiar and beloved characters from the previous two books - such as the Lowes and the Wiselys - as well as plenty of new faces. I, for one, was HIGHLY pleased with the side romances, and am so glad that Caroline-the-prim-and-serious-housekeeper also got a taste of happily-ever-after. 😉
Following the more serious tones of the two previous novels in the series, A Chance at Forever deals with mature subjects and explores subjects more substantial than mere fluffy romance, as well as delving into the lives of characters in the early twentieth century who do more than wearing pretty things and gossiping at sewing circles. I highly admire Jagear’s way of crafting a fun and engaging book that manages to leave you with a good impression of having wisely invested your time in reading it; it’s not an empty read, it challenges you, and makes you think. I love that.
Where the book looses points resides in its predictability and repetitiveness, especially in the latter half; a denouement which felt flat after the possibility of more exciting suspense, as well as the habit of writing the narrative using a lot of questions. Where would she go? What did she do? Why was she there? Would she come back?
For some reason I found it very irritating, and hadn’t noticed it at all in the two previous novels. Not a deal-breaker in an otherwise highly commendable book, but it was annoying.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this third installment of the Teaville Moral Society series, and would like to sincerely thank the author and NetGalley for a chance to read and review this book – I apologize once again for the late review!!
I absolutely loved the opening chapter...there is something unexpectedly endearing about a former bully who finds himself attracted to a woman he used to torment mercilessly as a child. It's a twist on the typical "redeemed rake" trope I have a penchant for, and worked wonderfully well in this book.
And also, a heroine who finds herself falling for her worst enemy...*swoon*
The romance in this book = highly, HIGHLY APPROVED. I was incredibly impressed at how swiftly and efficiently Jagears handled Mercy's growing attraction to Aaron, and Aaron's tender emotions for Mercy. Given the nature of the romance, there was the danger that feelings would come out of the blue or that things wouldn't make sense, but it was superbly well-done, easy to follow, and feelings progressed naturally and weren't developed overnight (which is a big pet peeve of mine in romances).
As usual, it was a pleasure to journey back to Teaville and follow the inhabitants about their business, meeting familiar and beloved characters from the previous two books - such as the Lowes and the Wiselys - as well as plenty of new faces. I, for one, was HIGHLY pleased with the side romances, and am so glad that Caroline-the-prim-and-serious-housekeeper also got a taste of happily-ever-after. 😉
Following the more serious tones of the two previous novels in the series, A Chance at Forever deals with mature subjects and explores subjects more substantial than mere fluffy romance, as well as delving into the lives of characters in the early twentieth century who do more than wearing pretty things and gossiping at sewing circles. I highly admire Jagear’s way of crafting a fun and engaging book that manages to leave you with a good impression of having wisely invested your time in reading it; it’s not an empty read, it challenges you, and makes you think. I love that.
Where the book looses points resides in its predictability and repetitiveness, especially in the latter half; a denouement which felt flat after the possibility of more exciting suspense, as well as the habit of writing the narrative using a lot of questions. Where would she go? What did she do? Why was she there? Would she come back?
For some reason I found it very irritating, and hadn’t noticed it at all in the two previous novels. Not a deal-breaker in an otherwise highly commendable book, but it was annoying.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this third installment of the Teaville Moral Society series, and would like to sincerely thank the author and NetGalley for a chance to read and review this book – I apologize once again for the late review!!
April 17, 2018
In this final book of the Teaville Moral Society, there is a focus on the red light district and helping those that want to have a better life. This followed the same pattern as the first two books in the series.
What was new for this novel is the subject of bullying. Main character, Aaron, has a past as a bully. Mercy knew Aaron when he was a bully and finds it difficult to see him in another light. Aaron is desperate to make amends for his past.
This was a sweet story. The ending was especially heart warming.
What was new for this novel is the subject of bullying. Main character, Aaron, has a past as a bully. Mercy knew Aaron when he was a bully and finds it difficult to see him in another light. Aaron is desperate to make amends for his past.
This was a sweet story. The ending was especially heart warming.
March 6, 2018
This book was so good!!! I could hardly set this novel down because I was seriously invested in the these two main characters.
Mercy had a lot to deal with in her life, from being born with a deformed arm, to being bullied relentlessly as a child, to being treated as a burden by her brother. So when her former bully showed up claiming to have changed, I understood her reluctance to trust. Aaron was also a great character. It was fascinating to see how God had changed his heart, how noble of a man he had become, and to learn of the ways he had suffered as a child. It was interesting to be so connected to a character in the story who had once been a cause of such heartache!
I loved the growth of both Mercy and Aaron throughout the novel. I also loved the development of their feelings toward each other. It felt so natural and real, as did both of their reactions to this change. The interactions with the various orphans and the general day to day life at the orphanage kept the story flowing and captivating. Beautifully done!
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...
Mercy had a lot to deal with in her life, from being born with a deformed arm, to being bullied relentlessly as a child, to being treated as a burden by her brother. So when her former bully showed up claiming to have changed, I understood her reluctance to trust. Aaron was also a great character. It was fascinating to see how God had changed his heart, how noble of a man he had become, and to learn of the ways he had suffered as a child. It was interesting to be so connected to a character in the story who had once been a cause of such heartache!
I loved the growth of both Mercy and Aaron throughout the novel. I also loved the development of their feelings toward each other. It felt so natural and real, as did both of their reactions to this change. The interactions with the various orphans and the general day to day life at the orphanage kept the story flowing and captivating. Beautifully done!
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...
April 27, 2018
Whew...what a beautifully crafted story! I have a hard time reading Melissa Jagears's books quickly because I just want to soak up all the details. I managed to make this one last a week. Of course, though, I finished the last hundred or so pages in a single night because I simply couldn't stop to put it down.
At the end, I had warm fuzzies and a deep regret over having to say goodbye to these characters. The small-town feel is authentically crafted and made me feel like I could go visit it if I lived a century ago. The epilogue was good, but not enough material on my new "friends" to satisfy me. I want more books set here!
I've always liked the name Mercy and I loved how our heroine embodies some of this and seeks to live up to her name. I loved the Christian lessons included. Aaron was an enjoyable and believable character also. I really admired his gutsy decision to come back to the town where he had been a bully and been miserable in order to try to make amends. I love how their story unfolds gently until everything about the past is understood and there's just the present and future to deal with.
I really have a hard time with writing reviews on books I love too much. In fact, a lot of the books on my favorites shelf don't have reviews because of that. I highly recommend the whole series, and this is a great story to end it with (though I will continue to protest the series having to end.)
Content: some mention of the shady houses of the red-light district. Some drinking/drunkenness, not condoned.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
At the end, I had warm fuzzies and a deep regret over having to say goodbye to these characters. The small-town feel is authentically crafted and made me feel like I could go visit it if I lived a century ago. The epilogue was good, but not enough material on my new "friends" to satisfy me. I want more books set here!
I've always liked the name Mercy and I loved how our heroine embodies some of this and seeks to live up to her name. I loved the Christian lessons included. Aaron was an enjoyable and believable character also. I really admired his gutsy decision to come back to the town where he had been a bully and been miserable in order to try to make amends. I love how their story unfolds gently until everything about the past is understood and there's just the present and future to deal with.
I really have a hard time with writing reviews on books I love too much. In fact, a lot of the books on my favorites shelf don't have reviews because of that. I highly recommend the whole series, and this is a great story to end it with (though I will continue to protest the series having to end.)
Content: some mention of the shady houses of the red-light district. Some drinking/drunkenness, not condoned.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
April 23, 2018
Two good, mostly uninterrupted, afternoons of reading and this book was finished! Obviously, it was a pretty fast read for me. ;)
I was a bit disappointed in the first book (A Heart Most Certain) in this series-- not because it was bad or anything (it was pretty good), but because I was unable to connect with any of the characters-- and I will admit that had me a bit worried going into this book. However, I ended up really enjoying this one and flying right through it at near record speeds!
These characters felt much more relatable and I even liked the characters from the first book better in this one. It sounds terrible to say this, but... I actually really loved that the main character is missing her hand. See what I mean? That's such a horrible thing to say, right?! :( And yet, it's still true. I'm pretty certain that the only books I've read where a character was missing a limb were cases of soldiers having been injured in battle so this-- a girl being born without part of her limb and having to grow up suffering through the teasing, bullying, etc. as a result-- was a new and quite interesting perspective, especially, I think, for a historical fiction book. It's not something that you typically see and I though it was very well written!
I feel like I really can't say enough about these characters. Mercy is a beautiful, realistic, totally relatable mess of kindness and compassion... and bitterness and unforgiveness. She really made me consider my own actions toward certain people-- how I can have kindness and compassion toward some, but what about when I am confronted by those who have hurt me? Do I express that same spirit toward them or do I stubbornly harbor those hard feelings that most people would never even realize I have? Food for much thought right there, let me tell ya.
And Aaron... Sweet, hurting, repentant Aaron. He is such a different person now than he was when Mercy knew him as a child. God has worked such a transformation in his life and it shows in every way. Oh, I cried over this man... I have no shame in admitting that. Seeing how badly he desired forgiveness for all the hurt he had caused years ago-- the lengths to which he went to show others how sorry he was for what he had done-- and seeing how he wanted to be a different, better man and wanted to use his past and his present to impact others like his younger self and show them God through his own life. How could a reader not love this character?
In the end, I was left with some questions and felt that some of the secondary characters' stories didn't end in quite as satisfying a way as I would have liked, but that is a bit of reality that should be expected. Overall, this book is one I am glad to have read and one that I will likely read again. The pain, the struggles, and the ultimate forgiveness and growth of these characters makes this the type of story that resonates in hearts and minds, lingering long after the final page has been read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, all opinions expressed are my own.
I was a bit disappointed in the first book (A Heart Most Certain) in this series-- not because it was bad or anything (it was pretty good), but because I was unable to connect with any of the characters-- and I will admit that had me a bit worried going into this book. However, I ended up really enjoying this one and flying right through it at near record speeds!
These characters felt much more relatable and I even liked the characters from the first book better in this one. It sounds terrible to say this, but... I actually really loved that the main character is missing her hand. See what I mean? That's such a horrible thing to say, right?! :( And yet, it's still true. I'm pretty certain that the only books I've read where a character was missing a limb were cases of soldiers having been injured in battle so this-- a girl being born without part of her limb and having to grow up suffering through the teasing, bullying, etc. as a result-- was a new and quite interesting perspective, especially, I think, for a historical fiction book. It's not something that you typically see and I though it was very well written!
I feel like I really can't say enough about these characters. Mercy is a beautiful, realistic, totally relatable mess of kindness and compassion... and bitterness and unforgiveness. She really made me consider my own actions toward certain people-- how I can have kindness and compassion toward some, but what about when I am confronted by those who have hurt me? Do I express that same spirit toward them or do I stubbornly harbor those hard feelings that most people would never even realize I have? Food for much thought right there, let me tell ya.
And Aaron... Sweet, hurting, repentant Aaron. He is such a different person now than he was when Mercy knew him as a child. God has worked such a transformation in his life and it shows in every way. Oh, I cried over this man... I have no shame in admitting that. Seeing how badly he desired forgiveness for all the hurt he had caused years ago-- the lengths to which he went to show others how sorry he was for what he had done-- and seeing how he wanted to be a different, better man and wanted to use his past and his present to impact others like his younger self and show them God through his own life. How could a reader not love this character?
In the end, I was left with some questions and felt that some of the secondary characters' stories didn't end in quite as satisfying a way as I would have liked, but that is a bit of reality that should be expected. Overall, this book is one I am glad to have read and one that I will likely read again. The pain, the struggles, and the ultimate forgiveness and growth of these characters makes this the type of story that resonates in hearts and minds, lingering long after the final page has been read.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, all opinions expressed are my own.
March 6, 2018
I have been loving this series and I was highly anticipating Mercy's story! This book was phenomenal, I loved every single minute! I already knew that I really liked Mercy, so I was sure that I would love her hero too, there is just something about a hero who is working super hard to be better and overcome his past mistakes, and doesn't feel that he deserves to be loved that never fails to make me swoon, and Aaron was no exception, what a hero, I was totally in love with him from the first chapter on!
I loved, loved, LOVED this book and it just may be my favorite of the series! I also loved the continuation of the secondary characters' (Caroline and Henri; Sadie and Franklin) stories that we got in this book, those story threads were tied up brilliantly and put the biggest smile on my face! While there are so many parts of this book that I absolutely love, my most favorite part was the epilogue, it just concluded both this book and the entire series in such a beautiful and absolutely perfect way, ahh! so good, it had me grinning from ear to ear and not wanting to say goodbye to my friends in Teaville!
I don't know what else to say except that I absolutely adored this book, highly recommend it, and cannot wait for Melissa Jagears' next book!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I loved, loved, LOVED this book and it just may be my favorite of the series! I also loved the continuation of the secondary characters' (Caroline and Henri; Sadie and Franklin) stories that we got in this book, those story threads were tied up brilliantly and put the biggest smile on my face! While there are so many parts of this book that I absolutely love, my most favorite part was the epilogue, it just concluded both this book and the entire series in such a beautiful and absolutely perfect way, ahh! so good, it had me grinning from ear to ear and not wanting to say goodbye to my friends in Teaville!
I don't know what else to say except that I absolutely adored this book, highly recommend it, and cannot wait for Melissa Jagears' next book!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
March 13, 2018
Melissa Jagears is one of my favorite historical romance authors. When I want a story that is romantic yet still focused on true-to-life issues, I can count on Jagears to deliver. A Chance at Forever is one such story. Endearing characters and the theme of forgiveness are the highlights of this novel.
Mercy McClain is such an admirable yet relatable character. Born with a limb deficiency, she grew accustomed to others making comments and behaving cruelly towards her, but no one tormented her more than George Firebrook. When George, who now goes by Aaron, comes back to Teaville in order to teach, Mercy is sure that he would only bring heartache to the life of a child the way he did to her. Both Mercy and Aaron perfectly demonstrate how long and difficult, yet so very rewarding, that the road to forgiveness can be. Mercy must forgive Aaron and make peace with the new person that he says he is, while Aaron must forgive himself and let go of the condemnation he has carried all of those years. Though at first their interactions are fraught with tension and a feeling of heartbreak, they soon take on a sweet hopefulness that I loved.
In addition to the theme of forgiveness, Jagears continues to touch some serious issues that have carried throughout the Teaville books, namely the consequences of prostitution and the plight of the town’s orphans. Mercy and some of the other characters that readers will be happy to see again take on prejudices of their peers, while trying to do their part to help. I appreciated that the plot showed that sometimes no matter what, you can’t help everyone, but you can help someone. Not every book succeeds in being both challenging yet entertaining, sobering yet hopeful, but that is just what A Chance at Love accomplishes.
Several secondary characters whose story has been sprinkled throughout the series finally get the ending they deserve. Their stories were told nicely throughout the overarching plot of each book, reaching a satisfying culmination without taking away from Mercy and Aaron’s story. The epilogue ties everything together perfectly. I am a big fan of epilogues, and this one does such a good job of taking care of any lingering wonders I might have had about certain characters. Teaville has been such a wonderful place to visit, and I’m both sorry and happy to see the last of this bunch.
A Chance at Forever can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I recommend starting at the beginning of the series. It just makes it really fun when the characters show up again because I know their story. I highly recommend this novel, and the entire series – for fans of entertaining yet challenging historical fiction with a sweet romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Mercy McClain is such an admirable yet relatable character. Born with a limb deficiency, she grew accustomed to others making comments and behaving cruelly towards her, but no one tormented her more than George Firebrook. When George, who now goes by Aaron, comes back to Teaville in order to teach, Mercy is sure that he would only bring heartache to the life of a child the way he did to her. Both Mercy and Aaron perfectly demonstrate how long and difficult, yet so very rewarding, that the road to forgiveness can be. Mercy must forgive Aaron and make peace with the new person that he says he is, while Aaron must forgive himself and let go of the condemnation he has carried all of those years. Though at first their interactions are fraught with tension and a feeling of heartbreak, they soon take on a sweet hopefulness that I loved.
In addition to the theme of forgiveness, Jagears continues to touch some serious issues that have carried throughout the Teaville books, namely the consequences of prostitution and the plight of the town’s orphans. Mercy and some of the other characters that readers will be happy to see again take on prejudices of their peers, while trying to do their part to help. I appreciated that the plot showed that sometimes no matter what, you can’t help everyone, but you can help someone. Not every book succeeds in being both challenging yet entertaining, sobering yet hopeful, but that is just what A Chance at Love accomplishes.
Several secondary characters whose story has been sprinkled throughout the series finally get the ending they deserve. Their stories were told nicely throughout the overarching plot of each book, reaching a satisfying culmination without taking away from Mercy and Aaron’s story. The epilogue ties everything together perfectly. I am a big fan of epilogues, and this one does such a good job of taking care of any lingering wonders I might have had about certain characters. Teaville has been such a wonderful place to visit, and I’m both sorry and happy to see the last of this bunch.
A Chance at Forever can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I recommend starting at the beginning of the series. It just makes it really fun when the characters show up again because I know their story. I highly recommend this novel, and the entire series – for fans of entertaining yet challenging historical fiction with a sweet romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.
March 2, 2018
_____________________________________
*My Thoughts*
I have been a part of Melissa Jagear's influencing team ever since "Love in Store", and I'm not lying, her books get better and better.
Mercy is the character everyone loves to love. She is kind, sweet, and loving but she still has flaws and a hard time with forgiveness. She's the kind of character that you can "feel" with, and commiserate with. Her name is something she struggles with, but not in a mean way, she's just had a lot to deal with in life.
Melissa did a fantastic job with Aaron. Mercy was sweet enough to be angry with Aaron over hurting her, but Aaron had just enough hurt in his own life to cause sorrow on the part of the reader. Trying to turn his life around, he was such a strong character while still being like a fragile little boy.
Overall, the storyline was amazing. I have never read a plotline like this, and I think it was so well written. Melissa added in plenty of twists that I NEVER saw coming, and kept my jaw on the floor. The ending of this series is such a sad feeling for me, but she did a wonderful job wrapping it up! Unlike others that like to tie it all up with a shiny red bow, Melissa kept it real while still making the reader sigh in pleasure. A thoroughly enjoyable, captivating read that puts it at the top of my 2018 favorites list!
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give A Chance at Forever...
5 stars!
*I received this book from the publisher, but was in no way required to give a positive review.
*My Thoughts*
I have been a part of Melissa Jagear's influencing team ever since "Love in Store", and I'm not lying, her books get better and better.
Mercy is the character everyone loves to love. She is kind, sweet, and loving but she still has flaws and a hard time with forgiveness. She's the kind of character that you can "feel" with, and commiserate with. Her name is something she struggles with, but not in a mean way, she's just had a lot to deal with in life.
Melissa did a fantastic job with Aaron. Mercy was sweet enough to be angry with Aaron over hurting her, but Aaron had just enough hurt in his own life to cause sorrow on the part of the reader. Trying to turn his life around, he was such a strong character while still being like a fragile little boy.
Overall, the storyline was amazing. I have never read a plotline like this, and I think it was so well written. Melissa added in plenty of twists that I NEVER saw coming, and kept my jaw on the floor. The ending of this series is such a sad feeling for me, but she did a wonderful job wrapping it up! Unlike others that like to tie it all up with a shiny red bow, Melissa kept it real while still making the reader sigh in pleasure. A thoroughly enjoyable, captivating read that puts it at the top of my 2018 favorites list!
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give A Chance at Forever...
5 stars!
*I received this book from the publisher, but was in no way required to give a positive review.
March 12, 2018
Such a beautiful, beautiful love story...love between a man who had been emotionally crippled by a wounded past ...who took his hurts out on others when he was younger and lived to deeply regret it...a man who turned into a godly, humble, sensitive, romantic and totally swoon worthy hero. This was a deeply moving story of a woman who was born with a disability, yet she didn't drown in self pity...she chose to trust God and use her life to help orphaned children who needed her selfless love and devotion. Seeing this couple overcome seemingly impossible challenges and grow to deeply love each other gave my heart such joy. I was also deeply moved by the supporting characters, the precious children. It was also so good to see my favorite characters from the previous books. This book was enthralling and such a satisfying ending to the series. I am going to be reflecting on these characters for many weeks to come. My book is highlighted and dog eared because there was so much godly wisdom packed in these pages. I give this book my highest recommendation! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 1, 2018
"Aaron Firebrook . . . . . . she'd figured he was likely related to the worst bully she'd ever known, but to actually be him?"
George Aaron Firebrook has a lengthy list of those in Teaville with whom he feels led to make restitution; Mercy McClain being at the top of the list. Seeing her in a school board meeting, with his very future in her hands, wasn't exactly how he would have written the script.
Mercy McClain is stunned to encounter "Aaron" Firebrook as a candidate for their high school math instructor. He had been the meanest boy in town; taunting and teasing her for days on end, his cruelty towards others practically legendary. Sure, he had grown a beard, changed his name, and put on a guise of kindness, but she could not imagine trusting him with the children of Teaville, Kansas; could she?
Instead of easily avoiding Aaron while the school board interviews other potential teachers, Mercy finds Aaron employed by Nicholas Lowe as a gardener for the very orphanage where Mercy lives and works with her brother and sister-in-law. As the weeks progress and Mercy has a close up view of the older and wiser version of Aaron Firebrook, everything that she supposed to be true is held in question, while everything that was supposed to be in question appears to be true. But there are other more pressing issues to confront than Aaron Firebrook's code of conduct; others are struggling to accept that lives can be changed from the inside out, with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit.
A lovely story with deep spiritual undertones.
George Aaron Firebrook has a lengthy list of those in Teaville with whom he feels led to make restitution; Mercy McClain being at the top of the list. Seeing her in a school board meeting, with his very future in her hands, wasn't exactly how he would have written the script.
Mercy McClain is stunned to encounter "Aaron" Firebrook as a candidate for their high school math instructor. He had been the meanest boy in town; taunting and teasing her for days on end, his cruelty towards others practically legendary. Sure, he had grown a beard, changed his name, and put on a guise of kindness, but she could not imagine trusting him with the children of Teaville, Kansas; could she?
Instead of easily avoiding Aaron while the school board interviews other potential teachers, Mercy finds Aaron employed by Nicholas Lowe as a gardener for the very orphanage where Mercy lives and works with her brother and sister-in-law. As the weeks progress and Mercy has a close up view of the older and wiser version of Aaron Firebrook, everything that she supposed to be true is held in question, while everything that was supposed to be in question appears to be true. But there are other more pressing issues to confront than Aaron Firebrook's code of conduct; others are struggling to accept that lives can be changed from the inside out, with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit.
A lovely story with deep spiritual undertones.
March 17, 2018
I really enjoyed A Chance at Forever. This is the third book in the series. The heroine Mercy was bullied as a little girl by the hero Aaron. As an adult, and a born again Christian he attempts to ask forgiveness from Mercy and others as well.
This book is well written and easy to read. I loved the message of forgiving others. I also loved the sweet romance as well.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
This book is well written and easy to read. I loved the message of forgiving others. I also loved the sweet romance as well.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
March 12, 2018
I have enjoyed reading all the books in the Teaville Moral Society, but this one is my favorite! This story deals with some heavy topics and situations, but every page points back to Jesus and His love. This is a beautiful story of Faith, Forgiveness, and Love. This story could easily be read as a stand-alone, however, for those who have read the other books, characters from previous stories do make appearances.
From the first chapter to the last I didn't want to put the book down. I felt emotionally involved in the lives of Mercy McClain and Aaron Firebrook. These characters are so real and engaging you can't help but feel their hurts, and cheer for their breakthroughs.
With a mystery to solve, and surprises to keep you guessing, two fantastic lead characters, a strong tread of faith, and a tender story of love, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy!
At its core the gentle reminder that in order to become who God wants us to be we need to allow God to change us, we need to ask for His guidance in our daily lives. Our willpower isn't enough. I give this wonderful story 5 stars and would encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself to enjoy!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
From the first chapter to the last I didn't want to put the book down. I felt emotionally involved in the lives of Mercy McClain and Aaron Firebrook. These characters are so real and engaging you can't help but feel their hurts, and cheer for their breakthroughs.
With a mystery to solve, and surprises to keep you guessing, two fantastic lead characters, a strong tread of faith, and a tender story of love, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy!
At its core the gentle reminder that in order to become who God wants us to be we need to allow God to change us, we need to ask for His guidance in our daily lives. Our willpower isn't enough. I give this wonderful story 5 stars and would encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself to enjoy!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
March 4, 2018
“You shouldn't let the voices of your past or present define who you are. Let God do that.”
Aaron embarks on a journey to try to make up for hurts he caused others in his childhood. The one person in the world Mercy McClain could go without seeing again is Aaron Firebrook. It seems God has plans for these two in spite of their painful pasts.
Melissa Jagears does it again with this emotionally charged tale of forgiveness, redemption, and becoming new in Christ in spite of your past sins. I loved seeing the character growth in them both, especially Mercy as she begins to accept herself as God sees her. Aaron is our wounded hero. Humble to the core, knowing he doesn't deserve grace or mercy in the people he hurt. But yet he knows he received it from God who looks at the heart of man. These two certainly spark whenever they are near each other & not always in a good way. When both of them begin to understand the forgiveness God extends, then healing can come and love can grow! Two unlikely people put together by God with a bond that is unbreakable, beautiful and lasting. A wonderful redeeming love story to touch heart & soul!
* I received a complimentary copy by the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
Aaron embarks on a journey to try to make up for hurts he caused others in his childhood. The one person in the world Mercy McClain could go without seeing again is Aaron Firebrook. It seems God has plans for these two in spite of their painful pasts.
Melissa Jagears does it again with this emotionally charged tale of forgiveness, redemption, and becoming new in Christ in spite of your past sins. I loved seeing the character growth in them both, especially Mercy as she begins to accept herself as God sees her. Aaron is our wounded hero. Humble to the core, knowing he doesn't deserve grace or mercy in the people he hurt. But yet he knows he received it from God who looks at the heart of man. These two certainly spark whenever they are near each other & not always in a good way. When both of them begin to understand the forgiveness God extends, then healing can come and love can grow! Two unlikely people put together by God with a bond that is unbreakable, beautiful and lasting. A wonderful redeeming love story to touch heart & soul!
* I received a complimentary copy by the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
April 28, 2025
I enjoyed the themes of forgiveness in the book. Although there were some sweet parts with the love interest playing with the little boys at the orphanage, I never really fell in love with him. Overall, it was a nice, quick, clean read and did not require reading the previous books in the series.
March 27, 2018
4.5 stars
A Chance at Forever is a worthwhile read! Even if it took me awhile to start enjoying the story, I ended up loving this book. I'm definitely a fan of author Melissa Jagears with her wide variety of characters and deeply meaningful messages.
Book Three in the TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series centers on Mercy McClain, who we've meet in previous books. Still hurt by rude remarks made about her missing hand, Mercy is horrified when the boy who bullied her the most returns to Teaville.
But Aaron Firebrook has had to deal with his own wounds and deeply dark injustice done toward him. Now he returns to the town he grew up in hoping to make amends and help children.
As I said, this book took me awhile to get into for some reason or another. I was perhaps on page sixty-six when I decided I just needed to finish it. So I began reading again, rather quickly became wrapped up in the story, started loving it, and finished it the next day! The message / themes of redemption / backstories completely caught my attention and my heart. It was heartrending and beautiful. It was refreshing to see how Melissa Jagears calls out the arrogant, selfish, and "holier-than-thou" people. Her stories of men and women with a passion to help prostitutes, orphans, and the lowly are amazing. When we all want to make it about rules and "are you good enough?" and revenge, the truth is that God sees the heart. He gives grace to the humble, but opposes the proud (1 Peter 5:5). I feel Melissa Jagears brings that across wonderfully in her novels.
Also, I came to appreciate the big cast of characters in A Chance at Forever. Mercy, Aaron, Nicholas, Lydia, Caroline, Henri, Jimmy, Owen, Sadie, Charlie, the sweet little babies, etc., etc. Though they might not get a lot of screen time, each character has their purpose. The villains were well-done too, which means they really, really upset me! There were some sweet secondary stories as well ... and A Chance at Forever really wrapped everything up in a satisfying and hopeful way.
I almost cried from the agony. I gasped in anger. I smiled because of the sweetness. I truly love how Mercy and Aaron's story turned out. The TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series is one I'm glad to have read, and recommend to fellow historical fiction fans!
I received a copy of A Chance at Forever from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
A Chance at Forever is a worthwhile read! Even if it took me awhile to start enjoying the story, I ended up loving this book. I'm definitely a fan of author Melissa Jagears with her wide variety of characters and deeply meaningful messages.
Book Three in the TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series centers on Mercy McClain, who we've meet in previous books. Still hurt by rude remarks made about her missing hand, Mercy is horrified when the boy who bullied her the most returns to Teaville.
But Aaron Firebrook has had to deal with his own wounds and deeply dark injustice done toward him. Now he returns to the town he grew up in hoping to make amends and help children.
As I said, this book took me awhile to get into for some reason or another. I was perhaps on page sixty-six when I decided I just needed to finish it. So I began reading again, rather quickly became wrapped up in the story, started loving it, and finished it the next day! The message / themes of redemption / backstories completely caught my attention and my heart. It was heartrending and beautiful. It was refreshing to see how Melissa Jagears calls out the arrogant, selfish, and "holier-than-thou" people. Her stories of men and women with a passion to help prostitutes, orphans, and the lowly are amazing. When we all want to make it about rules and "are you good enough?" and revenge, the truth is that God sees the heart. He gives grace to the humble, but opposes the proud (1 Peter 5:5). I feel Melissa Jagears brings that across wonderfully in her novels.
Also, I came to appreciate the big cast of characters in A Chance at Forever. Mercy, Aaron, Nicholas, Lydia, Caroline, Henri, Jimmy, Owen, Sadie, Charlie, the sweet little babies, etc., etc. Though they might not get a lot of screen time, each character has their purpose. The villains were well-done too, which means they really, really upset me! There were some sweet secondary stories as well ... and A Chance at Forever really wrapped everything up in a satisfying and hopeful way.
I almost cried from the agony. I gasped in anger. I smiled because of the sweetness. I truly love how Mercy and Aaron's story turned out. The TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series is one I'm glad to have read, and recommend to fellow historical fiction fans!
I received a copy of A Chance at Forever from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
May 11, 2018
A blockbuster ending to a spectacular series! Each book has made me think and evaluate and even squirm a wee bit as Jagears examines all aspects of charity. A Chance at Forever reads beautifully as a standalone novel but I highly recommend the entire series.
I've been waiting for Mercy's story. Love her name and how she tries to live up to it, though sometimes it's annoying to have that constant reminder -- especially when she is confronted by her childhood nemesis. Aaron was an uncaring bully back then and she can't forget his cruel taunts. Worse, she can't find it in her to forgive him now that he's returned to Teaville.
Aaron has come back to make amends to the community he terrorized as a troubled youth. He is the stuff swoonworthy heroes are made of. Penitent, strong in a new found faith, he doesn't flinch from facing his past and trying to make it right. And Jagears does an exceptional job of slowly peeling back the layers that make up this complicated man. I was cheering him on from the very first page where he's nervously waiting to be interviewed for a teaching position and I fell a little more in love with him with every page turn.
Which means I was some put out with Mercy for a lot of the book because she is stubbornly refusing to acknowledge the kind and decent man Aaron has become. She's always looking for an angle, waiting for him to morph back into a bully. She's quick to judge and her suspicions about drove me crazy but Aaron patiently bears it all. See what I mean about hero material?
So there's this central theme of forgiveness --- the power we hold over someone by refusing to extend it and the peace that's possible when it's offered freely and completely. It plays over and over again in the lives of different characters -- not just our hero and heroine. Love that continuity -- the way their combined stories brought me deeper into this aspect of my faith.
And then it was over all too soon. And even though the author provides a delightful epilogue that gives us a glimpse into the futures of all the heroes and heroines in this series, I'm still left aching for more! Which is a sign of great storytelling I suppose, though a little frustrating for an avid reader like me. :-) Can't wait to see what Melissa Jagears comes up with next!
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publications and Graf-Martin Communications.
I've been waiting for Mercy's story. Love her name and how she tries to live up to it, though sometimes it's annoying to have that constant reminder -- especially when she is confronted by her childhood nemesis. Aaron was an uncaring bully back then and she can't forget his cruel taunts. Worse, she can't find it in her to forgive him now that he's returned to Teaville.
Aaron has come back to make amends to the community he terrorized as a troubled youth. He is the stuff swoonworthy heroes are made of. Penitent, strong in a new found faith, he doesn't flinch from facing his past and trying to make it right. And Jagears does an exceptional job of slowly peeling back the layers that make up this complicated man. I was cheering him on from the very first page where he's nervously waiting to be interviewed for a teaching position and I fell a little more in love with him with every page turn.
Which means I was some put out with Mercy for a lot of the book because she is stubbornly refusing to acknowledge the kind and decent man Aaron has become. She's always looking for an angle, waiting for him to morph back into a bully. She's quick to judge and her suspicions about drove me crazy but Aaron patiently bears it all. See what I mean about hero material?
So there's this central theme of forgiveness --- the power we hold over someone by refusing to extend it and the peace that's possible when it's offered freely and completely. It plays over and over again in the lives of different characters -- not just our hero and heroine. Love that continuity -- the way their combined stories brought me deeper into this aspect of my faith.
And then it was over all too soon. And even though the author provides a delightful epilogue that gives us a glimpse into the futures of all the heroes and heroines in this series, I'm still left aching for more! Which is a sign of great storytelling I suppose, though a little frustrating for an avid reader like me. :-) Can't wait to see what Melissa Jagears comes up with next!
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publications and Graf-Martin Communications.
April 29, 2018
Melissa Jagears never disappoints for a sweet historical romance. The premise of an old bully falling in love with the handicapped girl he once made fun of grabbed me instantly. Jagears themes of forgiveness and a love that loves the unlovable completed this story, as did the satisfying ending, which nicely tied up the Teaville Society series.
I was given a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers.
I was given a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers.
February 19, 2018
"A Chance at Forever" is a wonderful story of forgiveness and love between Mercy and Aaron.
Mercy is a woman who serves in many roles and doesn't want to see other people hurt by Aaron, who as a young child hurt her and her family. She doesn't believes he has changed and doesn't want anything to do with him. She believes that she has succeeded only to realize that Aaron has agreed to another job that dictates she see him daily.
Aaron, a man who comes back to his hometown, is seeking to right the wrongs that he did in his past. Trying to find a job and make a living is harder for someone who already has a history, especially not a good one. Some of those whom he is seeking forgiveness from have ask some bold requests, and he finds himself at the mercy of a woman who does not trust him.
Mercy and Aaron, working side by side, are both determined to win. Read this book, A Chance at Forever, by Melissa Jagears. It is a fun-filled, love story of hope, forgiveness, and learning to trust again.
I received a complimentary review copy by the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
Mercy is a woman who serves in many roles and doesn't want to see other people hurt by Aaron, who as a young child hurt her and her family. She doesn't believes he has changed and doesn't want anything to do with him. She believes that she has succeeded only to realize that Aaron has agreed to another job that dictates she see him daily.
Aaron, a man who comes back to his hometown, is seeking to right the wrongs that he did in his past. Trying to find a job and make a living is harder for someone who already has a history, especially not a good one. Some of those whom he is seeking forgiveness from have ask some bold requests, and he finds himself at the mercy of a woman who does not trust him.
Mercy and Aaron, working side by side, are both determined to win. Read this book, A Chance at Forever, by Melissa Jagears. It is a fun-filled, love story of hope, forgiveness, and learning to trust again.
I received a complimentary review copy by the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
March 19, 2018
4.5 Stars
This book has so much happening, but it flows really well. One of the main topics in this book is prostitution. I know. You might be thinking, “What! Why would I want to read a book with a topic like that?” I was not aware that it was a main topic that would be talked about, but how it is handled is done nicely. In the story, there is a place called The Red Light District. This is where the saloons are and where the prostitutes live. All of the characters in this story are somehow affected by this place. The main characters want to help people who work in The Red Light District by showing them that they can find better work somewhere else. All of the prostitution parts are looked at as sinful and they never go into any detail. No characters in this story work in the Red Light District, but there are characters who once did work in the district and characters who have family members associated with the district. I’m trying not to give any spoilers away, so hopefully I’m explaining it well enough.
I just want to list all of the main plots happening in the story to show y’all how much goes on in this story, which kept me intrigued the whole time. I don’t think there was one part in this book that I was bored reading. The pace was excellent.
**Disclaimer: This section of my review will be very detailed. If you’re not a fan of reading a lot about the characters and plot of a story before reading a book, then you can skip past the numbered list. 😊 I’m going to try to make the list as blunt as possible, so I’m not giving away too much detailed information.
1. Aaron, who’s real name is George, used to bully people as a kid. He has a list of people who he wants to apologize to. He has come back to Teaville to apply for a math teaching position. While he is trying to get the position, he runs into a person he once bullied and tries to seek her forgiveness.
2. Mercy is one of the orphanage directors, along with her brother and sister-in-law. She has her own insecurities because she only has one arm. She feels she is a burden to her brother and his wife. She doesn’t know if she is qualified to work at the orphanage because she doesn’t seem to be doing that great of a job with one of the children.
3. Jimmy, who is thirteen years old, is one of the orphans at the orphanage. He is very stubborn and doesn’t obey. He has his own rough past that he is trying to deal with.
4. Aaron tries to help Jimmy, since he was once a troublemaker himself.
5. Mercy has some family issues going on, especially with her brother.
6. The staff working at the orphanage have their own storylines going on. There is a maid that once worked in the Red Light District. There is another maid who has a sister who worked in the district. Both of these maids have love interests.
7. Aaron is trying to fulfill one of the things someone told him he could do for them if he wanted their forgiveness. It might include adopting a certain orphan. 😉
8. The Moral Society is wanting to put together an auction for two of the orphans at the orphanage, who want to go to Boston.
9. There is a storyline involving Jimmy and a staff member who might not be so trustworthy. (Ohhh a mystery!!)
Okay, so that was all of the plot lines happening in this story. That’s a lot, huh? Well, each storyline is done incredibly and flows so nicely. There is a bit of a mystery happening in this book and I loved that aspect of the story. It’s not a mystery that takes up the whole book, but instead, it’s rather light.
The characters in this story were great. The author does an amazing job at making you feel connected to each character and their stories. Mercy was a character who had her own insecurities and lessons to learn, but the way she wanted to help people was great. She was a very caring character, especially with the orphans. I enjoyed reading Aaron’s character, even though sometimes he thought about kissing a certain person way too much. 😉 It was amazing to see a character who was really trying hard to make their past wrongs right. My favorite characters in this book were the orphans. I was rooting for everything to work out for them throughout the entire book. I loved how each orphan had their own storyline, some bigger than others, but you still get to read enough about each orphan that you keep reading because you want to know how everything works out for each of them. The only character I didn’t really like, besides the characters who made bad decisions in the book, was Henri. His character wasn’t a Christian, but we don’t get to read much about his character. At the ending, he was at a church (no spoilers). I’m thinking his character might be talked about more in the next book. Maybe? I’m not sure, but his was the only character I was iffy about.
The romance was super clean in this book. There are a few kisses in the book, but they are all really clean. Like I’ve already mentioned, Aaron does think about kissing a certain someone a lot. However, physical attraction was not the only thing present in the relationships in this story. That’s always a huge plus. All in all, the romance was really clean and I liked that it wasn’t the main thing happening in the story. There are so many other things happening, that the romance parts weren’t what the whole story was centered around.
The faith content was really great (I need more adjectives to use) in this story. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, so I wasn’t sure how the faith content was going to be. It was incredible (there’s a different adjective)! The characters faiths were definitely a main part of the story. I loved how much God was talked about. A few scriptures were quoted and a lot of talk about God being able to change people and forgive them was a main topic. There was a lot of talk about God throughout the story, which was lovely!!
I don’t have barely any negative content to list. Again, I didn’t really like Henri’s character, but his character might be talked more about in future books (if there will be anymore in this series). I didn’t like the one mention of the words “sixth sense”. Other than that, though, there isn’t any other negative content I marked down. Yay!! I love it when I have barely anything to write for the negative content. This book does carry some heavy topics, but I feel the topics are handled in a clean and nice way.
Overall, this story was incredible! It kept me turning page after page and never left me with a bored feeling at any moment throughout the book. This is the third book in the series (not counting the 0.5 eBook), but it can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read any previous books in the series, but I wasn’t confused at all while reading. I loved how long the Epilogue was and how everything concluded. I definitely want to read more about Jimmy’s character. I think the author has done an amazing job with his character and I’d love to read more about where his story goes. This book was really clean, even with one of the main topics being prostitution. I loved the faith content and overall, just loved the story!
My Rating: Read it
Review Link: https://readitorleaveitblog.blogspot....
**I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this honest review.
This book has so much happening, but it flows really well. One of the main topics in this book is prostitution. I know. You might be thinking, “What! Why would I want to read a book with a topic like that?” I was not aware that it was a main topic that would be talked about, but how it is handled is done nicely. In the story, there is a place called The Red Light District. This is where the saloons are and where the prostitutes live. All of the characters in this story are somehow affected by this place. The main characters want to help people who work in The Red Light District by showing them that they can find better work somewhere else. All of the prostitution parts are looked at as sinful and they never go into any detail. No characters in this story work in the Red Light District, but there are characters who once did work in the district and characters who have family members associated with the district. I’m trying not to give any spoilers away, so hopefully I’m explaining it well enough.
I just want to list all of the main plots happening in the story to show y’all how much goes on in this story, which kept me intrigued the whole time. I don’t think there was one part in this book that I was bored reading. The pace was excellent.
**Disclaimer: This section of my review will be very detailed. If you’re not a fan of reading a lot about the characters and plot of a story before reading a book, then you can skip past the numbered list. 😊 I’m going to try to make the list as blunt as possible, so I’m not giving away too much detailed information.
1. Aaron, who’s real name is George, used to bully people as a kid. He has a list of people who he wants to apologize to. He has come back to Teaville to apply for a math teaching position. While he is trying to get the position, he runs into a person he once bullied and tries to seek her forgiveness.
2. Mercy is one of the orphanage directors, along with her brother and sister-in-law. She has her own insecurities because she only has one arm. She feels she is a burden to her brother and his wife. She doesn’t know if she is qualified to work at the orphanage because she doesn’t seem to be doing that great of a job with one of the children.
3. Jimmy, who is thirteen years old, is one of the orphans at the orphanage. He is very stubborn and doesn’t obey. He has his own rough past that he is trying to deal with.
4. Aaron tries to help Jimmy, since he was once a troublemaker himself.
5. Mercy has some family issues going on, especially with her brother.
6. The staff working at the orphanage have their own storylines going on. There is a maid that once worked in the Red Light District. There is another maid who has a sister who worked in the district. Both of these maids have love interests.
7. Aaron is trying to fulfill one of the things someone told him he could do for them if he wanted their forgiveness. It might include adopting a certain orphan. 😉
8. The Moral Society is wanting to put together an auction for two of the orphans at the orphanage, who want to go to Boston.
9. There is a storyline involving Jimmy and a staff member who might not be so trustworthy. (Ohhh a mystery!!)
Okay, so that was all of the plot lines happening in this story. That’s a lot, huh? Well, each storyline is done incredibly and flows so nicely. There is a bit of a mystery happening in this book and I loved that aspect of the story. It’s not a mystery that takes up the whole book, but instead, it’s rather light.
The characters in this story were great. The author does an amazing job at making you feel connected to each character and their stories. Mercy was a character who had her own insecurities and lessons to learn, but the way she wanted to help people was great. She was a very caring character, especially with the orphans. I enjoyed reading Aaron’s character, even though sometimes he thought about kissing a certain person way too much. 😉 It was amazing to see a character who was really trying hard to make their past wrongs right. My favorite characters in this book were the orphans. I was rooting for everything to work out for them throughout the entire book. I loved how each orphan had their own storyline, some bigger than others, but you still get to read enough about each orphan that you keep reading because you want to know how everything works out for each of them. The only character I didn’t really like, besides the characters who made bad decisions in the book, was Henri. His character wasn’t a Christian, but we don’t get to read much about his character. At the ending, he was at a church (no spoilers). I’m thinking his character might be talked about more in the next book. Maybe? I’m not sure, but his was the only character I was iffy about.
The romance was super clean in this book. There are a few kisses in the book, but they are all really clean. Like I’ve already mentioned, Aaron does think about kissing a certain someone a lot. However, physical attraction was not the only thing present in the relationships in this story. That’s always a huge plus. All in all, the romance was really clean and I liked that it wasn’t the main thing happening in the story. There are so many other things happening, that the romance parts weren’t what the whole story was centered around.
The faith content was really great (I need more adjectives to use) in this story. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, so I wasn’t sure how the faith content was going to be. It was incredible (there’s a different adjective)! The characters faiths were definitely a main part of the story. I loved how much God was talked about. A few scriptures were quoted and a lot of talk about God being able to change people and forgive them was a main topic. There was a lot of talk about God throughout the story, which was lovely!!
I don’t have barely any negative content to list. Again, I didn’t really like Henri’s character, but his character might be talked more about in future books (if there will be anymore in this series). I didn’t like the one mention of the words “sixth sense”. Other than that, though, there isn’t any other negative content I marked down. Yay!! I love it when I have barely anything to write for the negative content. This book does carry some heavy topics, but I feel the topics are handled in a clean and nice way.
Overall, this story was incredible! It kept me turning page after page and never left me with a bored feeling at any moment throughout the book. This is the third book in the series (not counting the 0.5 eBook), but it can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read any previous books in the series, but I wasn’t confused at all while reading. I loved how long the Epilogue was and how everything concluded. I definitely want to read more about Jimmy’s character. I think the author has done an amazing job with his character and I’d love to read more about where his story goes. This book was really clean, even with one of the main topics being prostitution. I loved the faith content and overall, just loved the story!
My Rating: Read it
Review Link: https://readitorleaveitblog.blogspot....
**I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this honest review.
March 23, 2018
Can a person really change? What are morals? Those are some of the interesting thoughts that I had while reading this book. There are examples of cause and effect. Someone who is abused can become a bully. This book is about choices, the choice to change or live a life of unhappiness.
Mercy is an amazing character. She illustrated compassion throughout the book, but knows where the boundaries are. You cannot remain compassionate and let people use you. That is her dilemma in this story. Is she being swayed unfairly because of her compassionate nature? In spite of it all, she is positive, trusts, and is someone you would want on your side.
Aaron comes from a complex past. He is a contrast between being in control or being controlling. I loved that he was trying to give restitution for his mistakes. It takes a man of integrity and character to make things right, or at least try to.
I mentioned morals in the first paragraph, because there are characters who give the impression of having high morals, but their characters reveal that they are only moral as long as it is of benefit to them, or just pretend to have morals. This book gave me a lot to think about. What philosophies do we speak, and what do we really believe?
I should also mention that this is a fun book to read, besides thought provoking. The characters are well written, the pacing is great, and there is always some dilemma that needs to be taken care of.
It is clean with kissing. There is mention of prostitution and non-graphic violence. The book contains Christian themes.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley to read. Thanks to Bethany House for approving my request. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Mercy is an amazing character. She illustrated compassion throughout the book, but knows where the boundaries are. You cannot remain compassionate and let people use you. That is her dilemma in this story. Is she being swayed unfairly because of her compassionate nature? In spite of it all, she is positive, trusts, and is someone you would want on your side.
Aaron comes from a complex past. He is a contrast between being in control or being controlling. I loved that he was trying to give restitution for his mistakes. It takes a man of integrity and character to make things right, or at least try to.
I mentioned morals in the first paragraph, because there are characters who give the impression of having high morals, but their characters reveal that they are only moral as long as it is of benefit to them, or just pretend to have morals. This book gave me a lot to think about. What philosophies do we speak, and what do we really believe?
I should also mention that this is a fun book to read, besides thought provoking. The characters are well written, the pacing is great, and there is always some dilemma that needs to be taken care of.
It is clean with kissing. There is mention of prostitution and non-graphic violence. The book contains Christian themes.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley to read. Thanks to Bethany House for approving my request. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
January 23, 2018
"A Chance at Forever" is a Christian romance set in 1909 in Kansas. It's the third book in a series. This book wrapped up two side romances that have been building throughout the series, but it still worked fine as a stand-alone novel. Each romance was prevented from moving forward due to events in the past that need to be forgiven.
The main romance was between Mercy and the man who bullied her when they were children. He was abused by someone and in turn bullied others. Now he has returned to make things right after accepting Christ. He's trying to earn forgiveness from those he wronged and change his behavior through willpower. With Mercy's help, he realizes he needs to allow God to transform him from the inside and to accept the gift of forgiveness. We only see him as an honest, hardworking man, just one struggling with guilt and discouragement because he can see the damage his bullying did to Mercy and others. He encouraged Mercy to see her value and not believe the hurtful things he said in the past.
The author dealt with complex issues in a natural way that drove the events of the story. The changed people showed that change in their lives even though they still made mistakes. Other characters struggled to trust that those people had really changed or to decide how to deal with those who weren't interested in changing. The characters acted realistically and were complex and likable.
There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this well-developed, engaging book.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The main romance was between Mercy and the man who bullied her when they were children. He was abused by someone and in turn bullied others. Now he has returned to make things right after accepting Christ. He's trying to earn forgiveness from those he wronged and change his behavior through willpower. With Mercy's help, he realizes he needs to allow God to transform him from the inside and to accept the gift of forgiveness. We only see him as an honest, hardworking man, just one struggling with guilt and discouragement because he can see the damage his bullying did to Mercy and others. He encouraged Mercy to see her value and not believe the hurtful things he said in the past.
The author dealt with complex issues in a natural way that drove the events of the story. The changed people showed that change in their lives even though they still made mistakes. Other characters struggled to trust that those people had really changed or to decide how to deal with those who weren't interested in changing. The characters acted realistically and were complex and likable.
There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this well-developed, engaging book.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 4, 2018
A Chance at Forever is the third installment and my favorite from Melissa Jagears’ series Teaville Moral Society. I felt connected to Mercy immediately and I understood why she did not want anything to do with George / Aaron. She soon finds out how much he is trying to be a better and changed person. This is a delightful story with a few giggles and a powerful message of letting go and learning to forgive.
I give A Chance at Forever 5+ stars and I highly recommend it.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give A Chance at Forever 5+ stars and I highly recommend it.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
March 6, 2018
GOD CALLS US TO DO HARD THINGS
While the Teaville Moral Society books are part of a series, they will each read very well as a stand-alone. There are some key characters from the other books, but the story will hold its own, and the characters are well defined. The story is packed full of emotions, life lessons, judgment, secrets, compassion, and genuine, unselfish acts of Christianity. While this story is Christian based and does share the love of God, it isn’t preachy, but open and honest in serving the Lord. The story brings out the reality of how people treat others as a child will follow them into adulthood. Can a person really change from being a bully to be a caring, kindhearted soul? Are they due to just forgiveness when asking that of someone they hurt years ago? In this addition, George Aaron Firebrook will try to make up for the many years that he bullied other children, mocking them, being spiteful, and leaving mental anguish that many of his victims still carry.
“You were definitely rotten, mean, and heartless.”
When Aaron Firebrook returns to Teaville, Kansas, he isn’t the same man who left years ago. But there was one man, a teacher, Mr. Harrison Gray, who saw something beneath the hardened shell of a rough young man. While Aaron will leave and go to California to work, it was the words and kindness of a preacher that helped lead him to Christ, and with the compassion of Mr. Gray, he went on to become a teacher. Maybe a man who was the meanest bully could somehow understand other children and help turn them around. But first, he has been working on making restitution to some of his victims. Coming back to Teaville to apply to teach Math will not be easy, there are too many who know him for who he used to be. One of them, Miss Mercy McClain.
Mercy McClain is a woman of many emotions. She carries bitterness for some of the hardships she has endured in life, like the terrible taunting from the schoolhouse bully, George Firebrook. Mercy was born missing part of her arm and hand and that made perfect fodder for George. Then her mother’s illness required a move, but a carriage accident claimed her parents shortly after that. Living with her brother and his wife, Timothy, and Patricia, has her working with them at the orphanage in Teaville, taking care of four children. Having the only female seat on the school board will bring new challenges.
The plot will have George returning to Teaville using his middle name of Aaron and applying to the school board for a math teachers position. But he faces a roadblock in the form of Mercy McClain, and she knows who he really is her tormenter.
“You shouldn’t let the voices of your past or present define who you are. Let God do that. And He says you’re precious. So think of yourself that way, Mercy.”
Aaron will be hired in the gardening position for the orphanage, as well as, to tutor Max and Robert. He will also work with being a supportive role for Jimmy, a hardnosed belligerent teenager. Will Mercy see that Aaron isn’t the same man as he was as a schoolyard bully?
“How could she separate her memories of how he once was and how he seemed? Unforgiveness only kept their ugly past smoldering when she could let it turn to ash and blow away. Why was she holding on to the misery? She let her shoulders relax with a long exhale and looked up. “I forgive you.”
The story is a story of faith, forgiveness, redemption, and new beginnings. It is accepting responsibility for your actions and not only trying to rectify your mistakes but owning up to them and trying to help others. While the story is based on Christian principles, it isn’t preachy, but honest and forthcoming. And yes, not everything who portrays themselves as good people, are.
“It’s not where you’re from that matters—it’s the quality of your character. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind—prayers, study, repentance, thanking God for all He’s done—daily, for all our lives. If his past is all that’s making you hesitate, why don’t you try focusing on his future instead?”
“God who could loving use the worst days of a person’s past to make their future exquisite, for He could make all things work together for good to them that love God.”
The story is so full of emotions, heartache, sadness, angst, anger, bitterness, and even forgiveness. By the end of the story, I was crying with tears of joy and happiness. Confession, acceptance, forgiveness, and redemption are all part of this heartwarming story. I look forward to more in the Teaville Moral Society series.
While the Teaville Moral Society books are part of a series, they will each read very well as a stand-alone. There are some key characters from the other books, but the story will hold its own, and the characters are well defined. The story is packed full of emotions, life lessons, judgment, secrets, compassion, and genuine, unselfish acts of Christianity. While this story is Christian based and does share the love of God, it isn’t preachy, but open and honest in serving the Lord. The story brings out the reality of how people treat others as a child will follow them into adulthood. Can a person really change from being a bully to be a caring, kindhearted soul? Are they due to just forgiveness when asking that of someone they hurt years ago? In this addition, George Aaron Firebrook will try to make up for the many years that he bullied other children, mocking them, being spiteful, and leaving mental anguish that many of his victims still carry.
“You were definitely rotten, mean, and heartless.”
When Aaron Firebrook returns to Teaville, Kansas, he isn’t the same man who left years ago. But there was one man, a teacher, Mr. Harrison Gray, who saw something beneath the hardened shell of a rough young man. While Aaron will leave and go to California to work, it was the words and kindness of a preacher that helped lead him to Christ, and with the compassion of Mr. Gray, he went on to become a teacher. Maybe a man who was the meanest bully could somehow understand other children and help turn them around. But first, he has been working on making restitution to some of his victims. Coming back to Teaville to apply to teach Math will not be easy, there are too many who know him for who he used to be. One of them, Miss Mercy McClain.
Mercy McClain is a woman of many emotions. She carries bitterness for some of the hardships she has endured in life, like the terrible taunting from the schoolhouse bully, George Firebrook. Mercy was born missing part of her arm and hand and that made perfect fodder for George. Then her mother’s illness required a move, but a carriage accident claimed her parents shortly after that. Living with her brother and his wife, Timothy, and Patricia, has her working with them at the orphanage in Teaville, taking care of four children. Having the only female seat on the school board will bring new challenges.
The plot will have George returning to Teaville using his middle name of Aaron and applying to the school board for a math teachers position. But he faces a roadblock in the form of Mercy McClain, and she knows who he really is her tormenter.
“You shouldn’t let the voices of your past or present define who you are. Let God do that. And He says you’re precious. So think of yourself that way, Mercy.”
Aaron will be hired in the gardening position for the orphanage, as well as, to tutor Max and Robert. He will also work with being a supportive role for Jimmy, a hardnosed belligerent teenager. Will Mercy see that Aaron isn’t the same man as he was as a schoolyard bully?
“How could she separate her memories of how he once was and how he seemed? Unforgiveness only kept their ugly past smoldering when she could let it turn to ash and blow away. Why was she holding on to the misery? She let her shoulders relax with a long exhale and looked up. “I forgive you.”
The story is a story of faith, forgiveness, redemption, and new beginnings. It is accepting responsibility for your actions and not only trying to rectify your mistakes but owning up to them and trying to help others. While the story is based on Christian principles, it isn’t preachy, but honest and forthcoming. And yes, not everything who portrays themselves as good people, are.
“It’s not where you’re from that matters—it’s the quality of your character. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind—prayers, study, repentance, thanking God for all He’s done—daily, for all our lives. If his past is all that’s making you hesitate, why don’t you try focusing on his future instead?”
“God who could loving use the worst days of a person’s past to make their future exquisite, for He could make all things work together for good to them that love God.”
The story is so full of emotions, heartache, sadness, angst, anger, bitterness, and even forgiveness. By the end of the story, I was crying with tears of joy and happiness. Confession, acceptance, forgiveness, and redemption are all part of this heartwarming story. I look forward to more in the Teaville Moral Society series.
March 28, 2018
It was a pleasure to read the third installment in the Teaville books. Mercy isn’t a character we knew much about from the previous books, but I enjoyed getting to know her through this story. We get to see more of the going’s on at the orphanage, and I really enjoy the principles behind the books of reaching out to the needy in the unsavory parts of town.
Aaron was such a sweet guy, and some might say ‘ too good to be true’ but I personally have observed the work the Lord does in lives that at one time were rough and have been through a lot so I don’t think that the character she gives him is unrealistic. His backstory is not pleasant, and because of this I would caution younger readers. Though no details are ever gone into, I would still recommend this for a more mature audience. It was also enjoyable to see characters from the previous books and follow their continuing stories. There was just one couple that I really did NOT enjoy. Ugh! But I guess that’s only natural.
I enjoyed seeing the spiritual growth of both Aaron and Mercy. Really solid truths and principles throughout.
There was of course plenty of romantic feelings as one would expect, so those that are particular about that type of thing may be duly warned. 🙂
As I mentioned previously, much of the story revolves around brothels and other such unsavory topics but it is always handled completely appropriately and is only incidental to the story.
This was a sweet story and I’m giving 4 stars.
*Disclaimer: I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
Aaron was such a sweet guy, and some might say ‘ too good to be true’ but I personally have observed the work the Lord does in lives that at one time were rough and have been through a lot so I don’t think that the character she gives him is unrealistic. His backstory is not pleasant, and because of this I would caution younger readers. Though no details are ever gone into, I would still recommend this for a more mature audience. It was also enjoyable to see characters from the previous books and follow their continuing stories. There was just one couple that I really did NOT enjoy. Ugh! But I guess that’s only natural.
I enjoyed seeing the spiritual growth of both Aaron and Mercy. Really solid truths and principles throughout.
There was of course plenty of romantic feelings as one would expect, so those that are particular about that type of thing may be duly warned. 🙂
As I mentioned previously, much of the story revolves around brothels and other such unsavory topics but it is always handled completely appropriately and is only incidental to the story.
This was a sweet story and I’m giving 4 stars.
*Disclaimer: I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
March 17, 2018
I think I loved Mercy’s story the most in this series. It is a story of mercy, grace, healing from past hurts, love, and even a little mystery. It shows how hurting people hurt people and what the love of others and Christ can do to make a difference in someone’s life. Healing and forgiveness of others and yourself can sometimes be long in coming but when we trust God with our life it is possible. I received so much from this story that I hated for it to end. My favorite quote from the book is ..... and the taste of his tears proved the hard heart he’d once possessed had been softened by the omnipotent God who could lovingly use the worst days of a person‘s past to make their future exquisite, for he could make all things work together for good to them that love God.
This book is well written, engaging, and the characters are so real you feel like part of the town. I recommend this entire series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
This book is well written, engaging, and the characters are so real you feel like part of the town. I recommend this entire series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
March 26, 2018
Full review on Faithfully Bookish
Mercy McClain has endured years of taunts, teasing, and being brushed aside. Mercy displays great courage and learns important lessons in compassion, forgiveness, and self-worth. Aaron Firebrook wants to atone for his past behavior and make a positive impact on his community. Years after the fact, he is paying the consequences for bullying his classmates.
Often abusers are also victims of abuse but bullying others won't heal those wounds and there's only One who can. This story gently touches on those unspoken hurts while wooing readers with a precious tale of forgiveness, compassion, and romance!
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.
Mercy McClain has endured years of taunts, teasing, and being brushed aside. Mercy displays great courage and learns important lessons in compassion, forgiveness, and self-worth. Aaron Firebrook wants to atone for his past behavior and make a positive impact on his community. Years after the fact, he is paying the consequences for bullying his classmates.
Often abusers are also victims of abuse but bullying others won't heal those wounds and there's only One who can. This story gently touches on those unspoken hurts while wooing readers with a precious tale of forgiveness, compassion, and romance!
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.
March 6, 2018
A Chance at Forever takes an unlikable character and transforms him into a sweetheart of a hero. How many lives could be changed if we would pray for our enemies instead of badmouthing them? Aaron requests mercy from Mercy, who he had tormented during their childhood. It takes a while but she eventually sees that he has indeed become a new man. This book reminds me of how much I’ve changed through the years yet I don’t often give others that benefit of the doubt. This is such an entertaining and convicting book. I highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book. The opinion is my own.
April 2, 2019
First, I must thank the author for tackling the subject of “the red light district” in a way that makes the women and children humans who have stories that are important in understanding them. And THANK YOU, THANK YOU for Aaron’s story of why he acted as he did as a child. So many of us suffer in silence. We need more stories like this!
February 14, 2018
Aaron Firebrook returns to Teaville hoping to make amends for his bullying ways as a child by being a teacher and influencing others for good and protecting the innocent. However, Mercy McClain, one of the girls he bullied, is a member of the school board and when Aaron comes looking for a job, she doesn't believe that Aaron has changed his ways and won't vote for him to receive the position.
Aaron doesn't blame Mercy for not trusting him, but he truly wants to make amends, and while it's too much for him to expect Mercy to forgive him, he hopes he can show her that he really wants to help the children.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the themes of making amends for past wrongs, finding forgiveness, and allowing others to change. I have really enjoyed reading this series, and I liked seeing Mercy get her own story. (The books do not have to be read in order.)
I read a copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Aaron doesn't blame Mercy for not trusting him, but he truly wants to make amends, and while it's too much for him to expect Mercy to forgive him, he hopes he can show her that he really wants to help the children.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the themes of making amends for past wrongs, finding forgiveness, and allowing others to change. I have really enjoyed reading this series, and I liked seeing Mercy get her own story. (The books do not have to be read in order.)
I read a copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2018
A Chance at Forever is the third book in the Teaville Moral Society series by Melissa Jagears. Though it contains several characters who were introduced in the previous two novels in the series, A Chance at Forever tells its own unique story. Because it is so well-written and engaging, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading A Chance at Forever, and I sincerely look forward to reading other novels written by the talented Ms. Jagears.
I adore historical fiction, and A Chance at Forever exceeded my expectations. I found this novel to be utterly compelling and inspiring. The characters were vulnerable and complex, possessing a thoughtful believability that made them truly relatable and unforgettable. Their struggles, insecurities, fears, and beliefs were authentic and moving. As I read, I developed a deep, emotional connection to the characters and their desperate search for truth, grace, forgiveness, and compassion despite the heartaches and trials that they endured.
A Chance at Forever is a story of hope, second chances, and new beginnings. The threads of redemption and restoration that are woven throughout this novel have stitched a lasting seam in my thoughts and on my heart. From the first page to the last, this novel was relevant, tender, emotionally stirring, and ultimately uplifting. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
I adore historical fiction, and A Chance at Forever exceeded my expectations. I found this novel to be utterly compelling and inspiring. The characters were vulnerable and complex, possessing a thoughtful believability that made them truly relatable and unforgettable. Their struggles, insecurities, fears, and beliefs were authentic and moving. As I read, I developed a deep, emotional connection to the characters and their desperate search for truth, grace, forgiveness, and compassion despite the heartaches and trials that they endured.
A Chance at Forever is a story of hope, second chances, and new beginnings. The threads of redemption and restoration that are woven throughout this novel have stitched a lasting seam in my thoughts and on my heart. From the first page to the last, this novel was relevant, tender, emotionally stirring, and ultimately uplifting. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
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