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Rock Creek #1
Reclaimed
What will it take for her to finally find peace?Suzanna Wilton has had a heavy share of heartache in her twenty-seven years. Left wounded by a marriage cut short, she leaves city life to take up residency in a tiny Nebraska town. Her introduction to her neighbor Paul Rustin is a disaster. Assuming he’s as underhanded as the other local cowboys she’s already met, Suzanna greets him with sharp hostility.
Though Paul is offended by Suzanna’s unfriendliness, he can’t stop thinking about her, which unsettles his peaceful life. Intrigued by the woman who lives down the road and propelled by a sense that she carries a painful burden, he frequently drops by to offer help as she adjusts to rural living.
Just as Paul’s kindness begins to melt Suzanna’s frozen heart, a conflict regarding her land escalates in town. Even in the warmth of Paul’s love, resentment keeps a cold grip on her fragile heart.
When romance isn't enough, will Suzanna ever find peace?
Reclaimed is deeply moving Christian romance, and is part of the Rock Creek Romance Collection where romance and redemption grow in a charming small town. Each book can be read as a stand-alone. It Will Be Forever Ordinary Snowflakes The Cupcake DilemmaSmall Town. Big Faith. Welcome to Rock Creek.
Though Paul is offended by Suzanna’s unfriendliness, he can’t stop thinking about her, which unsettles his peaceful life. Intrigued by the woman who lives down the road and propelled by a sense that she carries a painful burden, he frequently drops by to offer help as she adjusts to rural living.
Just as Paul’s kindness begins to melt Suzanna’s frozen heart, a conflict regarding her land escalates in town. Even in the warmth of Paul’s love, resentment keeps a cold grip on her fragile heart.
When romance isn't enough, will Suzanna ever find peace?
Reclaimed is deeply moving Christian romance, and is part of the Rock Creek Romance Collection where romance and redemption grow in a charming small town. Each book can be read as a stand-alone. It Will Be Forever Ordinary Snowflakes The Cupcake DilemmaSmall Town. Big Faith. Welcome to Rock Creek.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2015
441 people are currently reading
1284 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
41 books405 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
January 14, 2020
I could say that Reclaimed is Jennifer Rodewald's most romantic book, but that’s not entirely true – “romantic” comes in many shapes and sizes. It IS true, however, this love story made me smile the most. From Paul’s country turn of a phrase to his adorably affectionate nickname for Suzanna (The Pickle hahaha) and even to Suzanna’s slow blossoming under his tender attention … all of it – including some darn good kisses – kept a silly delighted grin on my face for most of the novel.
Of course there were also moments that took my breath away, not from swooning or delight but from echoes of heartache and glimpses of grace. Because, after all, this is a Jennifer Rodewald novel and she is incredibly gifted at crafting a story that settles deep in all the shadowed places of your heart and brings the light of Jesus to the darkness. Authentic pain and emotion, even ‘wrastling’ with God, are captured with poignant honesty and occasionally wry humor. In Reclaimed, Suzanna’s pain is (thankfully) not something I’ve ever struggled with personally, but it rings true and sincere and makes me want to reach into the pages of the book and hug her close. The friendship she establishes with the Kent family and with Paul is sweetly heartwarming and real, warmth and love and faith reflecting in every word of their interactions.
Bottom Line: Jennifer Rodewald could write a to-do list for her weekend errands and I would gladly read it. And I would love it. Fortunately, we don’t have to settle for such a mundane group of words. Reclaimed is romantic and adorable, yet it delves deep into the hearts of its characters and wraps them up in sincere emotion and simple truth. As always, Rodewald’s writing is spot on – every word in perfect place, each smile and each tear and each blissful sigh drawn from the reader at precisely the right moment. If you have ever wondered whether God cares about you, if you have ever struggled to find peace, if you feel like you’re searching for something to fill the emptiness, this book is for you…. and for those of us who love people with the same questions. And as a bonus? This story is smile-inducing fun too! A fabulous blend of sweet and sassy and sincere, Reclaimed is a book I highly recommend!
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Of course there were also moments that took my breath away, not from swooning or delight but from echoes of heartache and glimpses of grace. Because, after all, this is a Jennifer Rodewald novel and she is incredibly gifted at crafting a story that settles deep in all the shadowed places of your heart and brings the light of Jesus to the darkness. Authentic pain and emotion, even ‘wrastling’ with God, are captured with poignant honesty and occasionally wry humor. In Reclaimed, Suzanna’s pain is (thankfully) not something I’ve ever struggled with personally, but it rings true and sincere and makes me want to reach into the pages of the book and hug her close. The friendship she establishes with the Kent family and with Paul is sweetly heartwarming and real, warmth and love and faith reflecting in every word of their interactions.
Bottom Line: Jennifer Rodewald could write a to-do list for her weekend errands and I would gladly read it. And I would love it. Fortunately, we don’t have to settle for such a mundane group of words. Reclaimed is romantic and adorable, yet it delves deep into the hearts of its characters and wraps them up in sincere emotion and simple truth. As always, Rodewald’s writing is spot on – every word in perfect place, each smile and each tear and each blissful sigh drawn from the reader at precisely the right moment. If you have ever wondered whether God cares about you, if you have ever struggled to find peace, if you feel like you’re searching for something to fill the emptiness, this book is for you…. and for those of us who love people with the same questions. And as a bonus? This story is smile-inducing fun too! A fabulous blend of sweet and sassy and sincere, Reclaimed is a book I highly recommend!
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 19, 2022
A nice change to have the two main characters a bit older than the typical hero and heroine. Suzanna and Paul are both in their late 30s. Suzanna's a city girl that inherited land from her father in small town Nebraska.
July 12, 2017
Every once in a while a book comes along that just shakes your heart and you know that this one is destined to be read many more times.
God takes broken things and makes them beautiful again. He reclaims our desolate places.
Suzanna Wilton has had a heavy share of heartache in her twenty-seven years. Left wounded by a marriage cut short, she leaves city life to take up residency in a tiny Nebraska town. Her introduction to her neighbor Paul Rustin is a disaster. Assuming he’s as underhanded as the other local cowboys she’s already met, Suzanna greets him with sharp hostility.
Though Paul is offended by Suzanna’s unfriendliness, he can’t stop thinking about her, which unsettles his peaceful life. Intrigued by the woman who lives down the road and propelled by a sense that she carries a painful burden, he frequently drops by to offer help as she adjusts to rural living.
Just as Paul’s kindness begins to melt Suzanna’s frozen heart, a conflict regarding her land escalates in town. Even in the warmth of Paul’s love, resentment keeps a cold grip on her fragile heart.
When romance isn't enough, will Suzanna ever find peace?
Suzanna has so much heartache and pain and yes, anger, that the reader feels as if they themselves feel every speck of pain she herself feels. You get the sense that how does this woman continue to live and breathe when she suffers so much? Suzanna longs, deeply longs, for some measure of peace in her life. It's painful to watch her suffer.
And Paul Rustin....he's just about the best hero I've ever read. Would that every man had Paul's heart, a heart that bears wrongs with so much grace and love that you are astounded at his mercy. God's mercy and grace dwells inside Paul Rustin. He comes to love Suzanna but is hesitant to make his feelings known because she has so much hurt inside. Can she allow him in? Then unsettling events begin to occur and Paul tries to keep her safe from pain that threatens to overwhelm her. How much can one woman take before she breaks? Suzanna reacts in anger, rejecting Paul's advice to let it go and let God handle it. Suzanna can't believe in God anymore, because she feels he hates her.
This is a romance, and what a beautiful and precious romance it is, but it's not just a romance between a man and a woman. No, it's a romance between God and His creation; His gentle pull toward them, His mercy, His grace, His desire that nothing will separate them from His deep and abiding love, a love that will never depart, never let down, never hurt. Throughout the book, we see God working to bring Suzanna back to Himself, to get her to the place where she will not only accept His peace, but revel in it!
I have read most of Jennifer Rodewald's books, but only because I came late to the game. I do plan on remedying that. She writes with a depth that is very uncommon. At one point in the book, I was in tears, literally streaming down my face so hard I could barely make out the words in the book. This is pure poetry here, folks. She writes with such emotion and power that it can only be through the anointing of the Holy Spirit. This book will stay with me a long time and I can truthfully say it is one of the best I've ever read and will remain in my top books ever read! I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
God takes broken things and makes them beautiful again. He reclaims our desolate places.
Suzanna Wilton has had a heavy share of heartache in her twenty-seven years. Left wounded by a marriage cut short, she leaves city life to take up residency in a tiny Nebraska town. Her introduction to her neighbor Paul Rustin is a disaster. Assuming he’s as underhanded as the other local cowboys she’s already met, Suzanna greets him with sharp hostility.
Though Paul is offended by Suzanna’s unfriendliness, he can’t stop thinking about her, which unsettles his peaceful life. Intrigued by the woman who lives down the road and propelled by a sense that she carries a painful burden, he frequently drops by to offer help as she adjusts to rural living.
Just as Paul’s kindness begins to melt Suzanna’s frozen heart, a conflict regarding her land escalates in town. Even in the warmth of Paul’s love, resentment keeps a cold grip on her fragile heart.
When romance isn't enough, will Suzanna ever find peace?
Suzanna has so much heartache and pain and yes, anger, that the reader feels as if they themselves feel every speck of pain she herself feels. You get the sense that how does this woman continue to live and breathe when she suffers so much? Suzanna longs, deeply longs, for some measure of peace in her life. It's painful to watch her suffer.
And Paul Rustin....he's just about the best hero I've ever read. Would that every man had Paul's heart, a heart that bears wrongs with so much grace and love that you are astounded at his mercy. God's mercy and grace dwells inside Paul Rustin. He comes to love Suzanna but is hesitant to make his feelings known because she has so much hurt inside. Can she allow him in? Then unsettling events begin to occur and Paul tries to keep her safe from pain that threatens to overwhelm her. How much can one woman take before she breaks? Suzanna reacts in anger, rejecting Paul's advice to let it go and let God handle it. Suzanna can't believe in God anymore, because she feels he hates her.
This is a romance, and what a beautiful and precious romance it is, but it's not just a romance between a man and a woman. No, it's a romance between God and His creation; His gentle pull toward them, His mercy, His grace, His desire that nothing will separate them from His deep and abiding love, a love that will never depart, never let down, never hurt. Throughout the book, we see God working to bring Suzanna back to Himself, to get her to the place where she will not only accept His peace, but revel in it!
I have read most of Jennifer Rodewald's books, but only because I came late to the game. I do plan on remedying that. She writes with a depth that is very uncommon. At one point in the book, I was in tears, literally streaming down my face so hard I could barely make out the words in the book. This is pure poetry here, folks. She writes with such emotion and power that it can only be through the anointing of the Holy Spirit. This book will stay with me a long time and I can truthfully say it is one of the best I've ever read and will remain in my top books ever read! I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
April 17, 2017
There are no words to describe how completely heart engaging this story is. I smiled, cried, and cheered. Ms. Rodewald brings emotion to the forefront, pulling the reader along in the process. I would read anything she writes.
May 19, 2022
-humbling -Cottonwood County, Nebraska
-horseback riding -finding peace -a personal relationship
-sunsets, waves of grass -seeking
-learned something new about raising cattle
-not a fan of the nicknames some of the characters had
-struggled with Suzanna's character for a good part of the book
-honest and real
-a very powerful message as a whole
-putting God first
"Starving souls live at a distance from the Mercy-seat and become like the parched fields in times of drought." ~C.H. Spurgeon
"There was a whole lot of humbling that had to happen before I made peace with life. Pride made me useless; selfishness made me difficult." ~Paul
"He seemed to embrace the ache of loose while accepting the comfort of love." ~ Suzanna's thoughts on Paul
"Jesus is at the very core of who I am. If you don't know Him, you'll never really know me." ~Paul
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: absolutely
-horseback riding -finding peace -a personal relationship
-sunsets, waves of grass -seeking
-learned something new about raising cattle
-not a fan of the nicknames some of the characters had
-struggled with Suzanna's character for a good part of the book
-honest and real
-a very powerful message as a whole
-putting God first
"Starving souls live at a distance from the Mercy-seat and become like the parched fields in times of drought." ~C.H. Spurgeon
"There was a whole lot of humbling that had to happen before I made peace with life. Pride made me useless; selfishness made me difficult." ~Paul
"He seemed to embrace the ache of loose while accepting the comfort of love." ~ Suzanna's thoughts on Paul
"Jesus is at the very core of who I am. If you don't know Him, you'll never really know me." ~Paul
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: absolutely
April 17, 2017
Full review on Faithfully Bookish http://wp.me/p7ngfE-L9
This story is chocked full of relationships. From family to friendly and encouraging to destructive, Reclaimed authentically illustrates the importance of relationships (and one specific relationship above all). Paul's extended family adds heart to the story while Suzanna's contributes mystery and drama.
I personally connected with this story's small town atmosphere, Suzanna's introverted personality, and Paul's great Mr. Steady personality. Readers will adore these characters and the life lessons sprinkled throughout the story. Paul's extended family adds heart to the story while Suzanna's contributes mystery and drama.
I purchased this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
This story is chocked full of relationships. From family to friendly and encouraging to destructive, Reclaimed authentically illustrates the importance of relationships (and one specific relationship above all). Paul's extended family adds heart to the story while Suzanna's contributes mystery and drama.
I personally connected with this story's small town atmosphere, Suzanna's introverted personality, and Paul's great Mr. Steady personality. Readers will adore these characters and the life lessons sprinkled throughout the story. Paul's extended family adds heart to the story while Suzanna's contributes mystery and drama.
I purchased this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 11, 2015
Wonderful story
This is the second book I have read by this author. I would recommend this author to my family and friends. She knows how to weave in God's redemption in a gentle way.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I would recommend this author to my family and friends. She knows how to weave in God's redemption in a gentle way.
April 19, 2017
Reclaimed is the kind of story that settles into your heart after the final page. Engaging from the start, it is an amazing story of finding unfailing love, peace, and belonging that seriously had me laughing and crying multiple times.
Jennifer Rodewald has a beautiful writing style that is prose-like at times and to-the-point just when it needs to be. One paragraph could make me smile from the humor or an endearing nickname and the next paragraph could tear my heart out and bring deeper emotions to the forefront.
The hard-working yet relaxed pace of country life is painted as a perfect backdrop for the characters’ journeys, because this book is all about the characters. It centers on a painstakingly subtle transformation; a “reclaiming”, if you will, of heritage, faith, and dreams (with the addition of a sweet love story).
The main characters’ personalities are vibrant and endearing!
Suzanna is someone I just want to hug! She needs it. She starts off as a prickly, though always likable, person who is deeply hurting over some things from her past. She often reacts in anger toward others to stave off the pain or prevent further rejection. As her story slowly comes to light, she begins to change because of the encouragement and no-strings-attached friendships that grow from her new neighbors, Paul and his sister, Andrea.
Paul! He’s the quintessential country gentleman: a humble person who finds joy in his work and a man with integrity who loves his mama (and dad). Not to mention the humor and flirting he’s capable of ❤ …. But, he is not without his own flaws or difficulties. His current attitude is one resulting from growth, though, having dealt with his own struggles with pride to find peace and be settled with his home. I enjoyed the genuineness of his perspective.
These two emotional perspectives – Suzanna’s and Paul’s – are contrasted in a way that makes them even more understandable — one outlook of questioning, searching, and subsequent pain/anger and the other of a seasoned wisdom and hope. Paul really believes in Suzanna, something that no one has done for her in far too long. He exudes a kind and grace-filled spirit, understanding the need to slowly break through her walls.
The faith thread is never overstated, though central to the story. At the root of Suzanna’s problem is her disconnected idea of and relationship with God. When these encouraging personalities discover that this is the heart of Suzanna’s struggles, they understand it has to be addressed before healing can take place. And the way Paul — and his sister and a few other precious secondary characters — prove to be the hands and feet of Jesus in guiding Suz to Him plays out beautifully.
I really appreciated the way this entire story thoroughly points to the fact that only God can make one whole. That knowing Jesus is not the same as having religion. That the truth is as simple as a freely offered relationship with the Savior of the world. All of this is combined with the sweetest story of romance born of friendship to make this one of my favorite books I’ve read so far this year. It’s my first novel by Jennifer, but it won’t be my last!
Thank you to Singing Librarian Books and the publisher for providing a complimentary review copy for the purpose of this tour. This is my honest review.
Jennifer Rodewald has a beautiful writing style that is prose-like at times and to-the-point just when it needs to be. One paragraph could make me smile from the humor or an endearing nickname and the next paragraph could tear my heart out and bring deeper emotions to the forefront.
The hard-working yet relaxed pace of country life is painted as a perfect backdrop for the characters’ journeys, because this book is all about the characters. It centers on a painstakingly subtle transformation; a “reclaiming”, if you will, of heritage, faith, and dreams (with the addition of a sweet love story).
The main characters’ personalities are vibrant and endearing!
Suzanna is someone I just want to hug! She needs it. She starts off as a prickly, though always likable, person who is deeply hurting over some things from her past. She often reacts in anger toward others to stave off the pain or prevent further rejection. As her story slowly comes to light, she begins to change because of the encouragement and no-strings-attached friendships that grow from her new neighbors, Paul and his sister, Andrea.
Paul! He’s the quintessential country gentleman: a humble person who finds joy in his work and a man with integrity who loves his mama (and dad). Not to mention the humor and flirting he’s capable of ❤ …. But, he is not without his own flaws or difficulties. His current attitude is one resulting from growth, though, having dealt with his own struggles with pride to find peace and be settled with his home. I enjoyed the genuineness of his perspective.
These two emotional perspectives – Suzanna’s and Paul’s – are contrasted in a way that makes them even more understandable — one outlook of questioning, searching, and subsequent pain/anger and the other of a seasoned wisdom and hope. Paul really believes in Suzanna, something that no one has done for her in far too long. He exudes a kind and grace-filled spirit, understanding the need to slowly break through her walls.
The faith thread is never overstated, though central to the story. At the root of Suzanna’s problem is her disconnected idea of and relationship with God. When these encouraging personalities discover that this is the heart of Suzanna’s struggles, they understand it has to be addressed before healing can take place. And the way Paul — and his sister and a few other precious secondary characters — prove to be the hands and feet of Jesus in guiding Suz to Him plays out beautifully.
I really appreciated the way this entire story thoroughly points to the fact that only God can make one whole. That knowing Jesus is not the same as having religion. That the truth is as simple as a freely offered relationship with the Savior of the world. All of this is combined with the sweetest story of romance born of friendship to make this one of my favorite books I’ve read so far this year. It’s my first novel by Jennifer, but it won’t be my last!
Thank you to Singing Librarian Books and the publisher for providing a complimentary review copy for the purpose of this tour. This is my honest review.
September 25, 2015
Reclaimed by Jennifer Rodewald is an amazing read. Only the second novel by this author, but I am sure it will not be long before Jennifer Rodewald is a household name.
Following the death of her father, Suzanna moves into his ranch. She is still mourning the death of her husband Jason two years earlier. Suzanna is afraid to love because to love is to open oneself up to potential loss and pain.
Paul is Suzanna's nearest neighbour, a mile or so down the road. He views her as an injured puppy who needs healing. He wants to know what in her past has hurt her so badly that she shrinks from company. Suzanna will 'snap' out of fear, which doesn't win her friends easily.
Reclaimed deals with the huge themes of love and pain. To love risks pain, but to live in isolation and guard ones heart also causes pain. Paul comes from a loving family, all of whom live nearby. Suzanna grew up in a dysfunctional family which shattered when she reached eighteen. Her family is a source of pain. Paul's is a source of love. Can Suzanna ever experience a love like theirs?
The novel deals with faith. Paul's family have a strong faith and a living relationship with God. Jason through his cancer came to know God. Suzanna was a 'preacher's kid' who knew all about God, but as Paul points out "that's not the same as knowing Him". When one knows God and does life out of a relationship with Him, it does not prevent tough times, but in those times, God walks alongside His children. Jennifer Rodewald in Reclaimed demonstrates the different approaches to life of the characters who have religion versus the characters who have relationship.
Reclaimed shows the importance of having friends. They can be male or female, young or old. Friends will not desert you and will help you through life. In the novel Jennifer Rodewald portrays a wonderful friendship between Suzanna and twelve year old Kelsey showing that friendship can cross age barriers.
There are some delightful and realistic characters within the novel, and I was sad to leave them behind as the novel closed. Who would not want to be a member of Paul's family? And how could one not feel empathy for Suzanna? She had been through so much grief in such a short time. People handle death and grief differently, as revealed in the novel. Christian characters face death with sadness but also with a hope of heaven. Characters who only know of God face death with fear, anger and resentment, as well as sadness. Suzanna, as the novel starts feels anger towards God and abandonment by God. Will she ever know Him and His love?
Within Reclaimed Jennifer Rodewald shows the need everyone has for God. This is not done in a 'preachy' way, but in a way designed to make the reader think and question - do I know God personally?
I thoroughly enjoyed Reclaimed, and have every intention of reading Jennifer Rodewald's debut novel Blue Columbine, whilst waiting for the release of The Carpenter's Daughter in 2016.
Following the death of her father, Suzanna moves into his ranch. She is still mourning the death of her husband Jason two years earlier. Suzanna is afraid to love because to love is to open oneself up to potential loss and pain.
Paul is Suzanna's nearest neighbour, a mile or so down the road. He views her as an injured puppy who needs healing. He wants to know what in her past has hurt her so badly that she shrinks from company. Suzanna will 'snap' out of fear, which doesn't win her friends easily.
Reclaimed deals with the huge themes of love and pain. To love risks pain, but to live in isolation and guard ones heart also causes pain. Paul comes from a loving family, all of whom live nearby. Suzanna grew up in a dysfunctional family which shattered when she reached eighteen. Her family is a source of pain. Paul's is a source of love. Can Suzanna ever experience a love like theirs?
The novel deals with faith. Paul's family have a strong faith and a living relationship with God. Jason through his cancer came to know God. Suzanna was a 'preacher's kid' who knew all about God, but as Paul points out "that's not the same as knowing Him". When one knows God and does life out of a relationship with Him, it does not prevent tough times, but in those times, God walks alongside His children. Jennifer Rodewald in Reclaimed demonstrates the different approaches to life of the characters who have religion versus the characters who have relationship.
Reclaimed shows the importance of having friends. They can be male or female, young or old. Friends will not desert you and will help you through life. In the novel Jennifer Rodewald portrays a wonderful friendship between Suzanna and twelve year old Kelsey showing that friendship can cross age barriers.
There are some delightful and realistic characters within the novel, and I was sad to leave them behind as the novel closed. Who would not want to be a member of Paul's family? And how could one not feel empathy for Suzanna? She had been through so much grief in such a short time. People handle death and grief differently, as revealed in the novel. Christian characters face death with sadness but also with a hope of heaven. Characters who only know of God face death with fear, anger and resentment, as well as sadness. Suzanna, as the novel starts feels anger towards God and abandonment by God. Will she ever know Him and His love?
Within Reclaimed Jennifer Rodewald shows the need everyone has for God. This is not done in a 'preachy' way, but in a way designed to make the reader think and question - do I know God personally?
I thoroughly enjoyed Reclaimed, and have every intention of reading Jennifer Rodewald's debut novel Blue Columbine, whilst waiting for the release of The Carpenter's Daughter in 2016.
May 18, 2016
First let me say that I am not particularly crazy about romantic novels, even those in the Christian genre, because they generally seem to go the same route. However, I previously was reading fiction novels pertaining to tribulation-era times and was needing something less tense. Looking through my stash of Kindle books, I was drawn to Rodewald's novel, "Reclaimed," partly because of the name and partly because it was a western romance - I am a sucker for the western culture! This was the first time I had picked up a Jennifer Rodewald novel, so I really wasn't sure what to expect; but boy, was I pleasantly surprised! And guess whose name goes into my list of favorite authors now? You guessed it - Rodewald!
What made this story stand out above so many other Christian romantic fiction books was the way she crafted the story, pulling her readers in and making them - or me, anyway - feel like they were really there! But more than that, it was the unabashed way that she talked about having a real and true relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ! Oh, I could go deeper into more details, but then I would give the story away! Suffice to say, though, it was an enjoyable story the entire way through.
I had a difficult time putting the story down once I started reading it, so that says a lot there.
SPOILER:
I loved how she brought in the difference between one who perceives that they have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and one who does not because it appears that many authors these days are unwilling to put themselves out on that limb for fear of complaints or being pushed into following the expected route of not saying too much. And maybe I have said too much! But I really, really admire Rodewald for following the Lord and not man.
What made this story stand out above so many other Christian romantic fiction books was the way she crafted the story, pulling her readers in and making them - or me, anyway - feel like they were really there! But more than that, it was the unabashed way that she talked about having a real and true relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ! Oh, I could go deeper into more details, but then I would give the story away! Suffice to say, though, it was an enjoyable story the entire way through.
I had a difficult time putting the story down once I started reading it, so that says a lot there.
SPOILER:
I loved how she brought in the difference between one who perceives that they have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and one who does not because it appears that many authors these days are unwilling to put themselves out on that limb for fear of complaints or being pushed into following the expected route of not saying too much. And maybe I have said too much! But I really, really admire Rodewald for following the Lord and not man.
August 23, 2017
Jennifer Rodewald is amazing! I went into this book with an open mind and heart, as I wasn't quite sure what I would get out of the story. Ms. Rodewald is a new-to-me author and I tend to be cautious when I start their books. Boy, was I ever surprised! The emotions that filled me after reading this book! It definitely had all the feels.
I felt all of Suzanna's emotions. Her heart ache, her struggles, all of them were mine. I could relate to her well created, complexity of character. My walk with God hasn't always been an easy one, and I feel that with Suzanna and her life as she comes to terms with the events of her life. Like she could learn to trust in Him just a little more and her walk in life would be easier. I loved that. Being able to relate to the main character is one of the bonuses of a well written book.
Let's not forget Paul! I loved him. Bless him, he was truly a wonderful, God fearing man and as he learned more about Suzanna, I could feel the turmoil in his heart as he struggled with what to do! I just wanted to hug him!
I'll tell you now that you need to grab a copy of this book. You'll be taken on a roller coaster of emotions as you follow the story. The characters will make a permanent home in your heart and Ms. Rodewald's writing style will leave you in awe. I definitely give this book high praises and 4.5 stars worth of recommendations! I can't wait to read another amazing book by this author. This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
I felt all of Suzanna's emotions. Her heart ache, her struggles, all of them were mine. I could relate to her well created, complexity of character. My walk with God hasn't always been an easy one, and I feel that with Suzanna and her life as she comes to terms with the events of her life. Like she could learn to trust in Him just a little more and her walk in life would be easier. I loved that. Being able to relate to the main character is one of the bonuses of a well written book.
Let's not forget Paul! I loved him. Bless him, he was truly a wonderful, God fearing man and as he learned more about Suzanna, I could feel the turmoil in his heart as he struggled with what to do! I just wanted to hug him!
I'll tell you now that you need to grab a copy of this book. You'll be taken on a roller coaster of emotions as you follow the story. The characters will make a permanent home in your heart and Ms. Rodewald's writing style will leave you in awe. I definitely give this book high praises and 4.5 stars worth of recommendations! I can't wait to read another amazing book by this author. This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
June 5, 2016
Suzanna Wilton is desperately searching for a new life; moving to a small Nebraska town following widowhood, she reclaims two hundred acres of property inherited from her father, whose soul had finally found peace at the end of his days, after revitalizing a virtual wasteland into profitable acreage. Stunned by insistent offers of a buy-out from multiple towns people, Suzanna's introduction to neighbor Paul Rustin, gives both of them the wrong impression.
Paul, in spite of their prickly start, intuitively seeks to shower Suzanna's wounded spirit with friendship, painfully discovering that her wounds are deeper than human attraction can salve. In the interim it becomes apparent that malicious gossip, intended to drive Suzanna from her property, is marring Paul's honorable reputation, weakening Suzanna's resolve to envision a future in Rock Creek, Nebraska. Will Suzanna ever find peace, or has God abandoned her to a life of loneliness?
"Reclaimed" is an amazing story, full of grace and truth, leading the parched, thirsty soul towards the well of "living water", to the One who can "pour out water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground". Reclaimed.
Paul, in spite of their prickly start, intuitively seeks to shower Suzanna's wounded spirit with friendship, painfully discovering that her wounds are deeper than human attraction can salve. In the interim it becomes apparent that malicious gossip, intended to drive Suzanna from her property, is marring Paul's honorable reputation, weakening Suzanna's resolve to envision a future in Rock Creek, Nebraska. Will Suzanna ever find peace, or has God abandoned her to a life of loneliness?
"Reclaimed" is an amazing story, full of grace and truth, leading the parched, thirsty soul towards the well of "living water", to the One who can "pour out water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground". Reclaimed.
July 23, 2016
Wow! I wish more books allowed us to feel this connected with all the characters. It's a story of survival in a sense. Suzanna has been dealt a rather harsh hand in life: a mother who left, a father and husband dead, and it seems that the whole town hates her. She doesn't exactly hold God in the highest respect because all she sees are the negatives: death, doom, gloom, etc. She doesn't see the beauty of God or the wonders of God. It takes a wonderful neighbor (and single guy to boot!) to rethink her ideas.
Paul is good for her. He's good TO her (which is what she desperately needs when you have a mother who doesn't think much of you). He shows her what love really is and how God loves us. Love isn't just a mushy feeling. It's not fireworks. Love is action. Love is commitment. Love is the ability to look through the bad times and still find good.
It's an excellent book that reminds you that God is love.
Paul is good for her. He's good TO her (which is what she desperately needs when you have a mother who doesn't think much of you). He shows her what love really is and how God loves us. Love isn't just a mushy feeling. It's not fireworks. Love is action. Love is commitment. Love is the ability to look through the bad times and still find good.
It's an excellent book that reminds you that God is love.
April 15, 2016
This was an emotional, heart wrenching love story, with our Savior woven through the words.
Suzanna and Paul's story touched my soul. And made me glad God sent Jesus to die for us.
The characters were very beautifully portrayed and I was very intrigued with Kelsey and her love for her Grandfather.
Thank you for writing this book and showing the plan of salvation.
This is a must read book for everyone.
Suzanna and Paul's story touched my soul. And made me glad God sent Jesus to die for us.
The characters were very beautifully portrayed and I was very intrigued with Kelsey and her love for her Grandfather.
Thank you for writing this book and showing the plan of salvation.
This is a must read book for everyone.
Read
May 9, 2016This story starts off really sad. The protagonist is broken, holding in to many secrets for anyone to bare. The author did an amazing job keeping you reading to want to know more about Suzanna. You can't help but take her side and feel her pain. And the innocent romance is a breath of fresh air. There's a very important life lesson in this book, one I think everyone should come to know.
September 26, 2015
I loved the characters in this book! There were witty moments and deep moments, and there was a great message about true peace! The descriptions were so vivid, too!
April 22, 2016
This is a little slow but I love stories where there is love, serving each other, and bringing people to Christ. Christ changes us for the good and I liked watching this main character find Him.
August 15, 2018
Reclaimed by Jennifer Rodewald
A moving story of restoration of hearts
Suzanna’s father purchased land that had been destroyed through misuse and was considered worthless. He set about reclaiming and restoring it and through his careful management, he turned it into some of the most valuable and sought-after land in the area.
I loved this book so much!! It is the story of broken people being made whole. Of a patient and enduring love that never gives up and never fails. It is full of hope and has such a peaceful tone despite the turmoil in the lives of the characters and even has appropriate touches of humor throughout. The writing is so good and the dialog is some of the most naturally written that I have read in a book. It was so clever of the author the way she wove the analogy of broken things being reclaimed and redeemed into the fabric of the book in the many ways that she did.
Paul is now somewhere at the top of my list of favorite heroes. A cowboy with a deep abiding love for his land and his cattle. Swoon! I had never before considered that a rancher might actually care for the individual bovines he owns and would hurt over the pain of the cows when separated from their calves or over the loss of a calf – and not for financial loss.
Having overcome a rough past, he understood redemption in a very personal way. He still wasn’t perfect – the book started out with him making some wrong judgments about what Suzanna was like and he struggled with anger. However, he had an amazing relationship with his family and was a man who knew what he wanted and was willing to do what he had to in order to get it. His tenacious pursuit of Suzanna was a beautiful picture of how Jesus pursues us. Oh, and I kept smiling as his originally derisive nickname of Pickle ended up being an endearment he used in various forms.
True confession. Sometimes when I read a book about a character suffering grief and they keep holding on to their pain, I get frustrated and think, “Can’t she just get a grip and move forward?” I hope this isn’t a lack of compassion on my part and have felt a little like it must be me. Reading Reclaimed where it takes most of the book for Suzanna to heal has shown me I’m not a terrible person. Because I didn’t feel that way at all in this book. I saw the hope and felt great concern for her but I wasn’t frustrated at an attempt by the author to try to convince me how terrible she was feeling because that didn’t happen. Author Jennifer Rodewald did a fantastic job of making sure I saw the deep wounds without making it obnoxious or tiresome.
One of my absolute favorite moments in the book was when Paul and Suzanna were at his river property with his sister and her kids, loading the cattle. He was so overwhelmed with joy that he began to hum “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us”. And it turned into a mini-praise session as the family joined in. Wow! How do you not fall in love with a cowboy like that?
I could go on and on about how much I loved this book but it would be silly for me to do that. After all, you should just read it yourself instead of reading my gushing. Go on. Get a copy. What’s stopping you?
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I would like to thank Jennifer Rodewald for giving me a copy of this book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
A moving story of restoration of hearts
Suzanna’s father purchased land that had been destroyed through misuse and was considered worthless. He set about reclaiming and restoring it and through his careful management, he turned it into some of the most valuable and sought-after land in the area.
I loved this book so much!! It is the story of broken people being made whole. Of a patient and enduring love that never gives up and never fails. It is full of hope and has such a peaceful tone despite the turmoil in the lives of the characters and even has appropriate touches of humor throughout. The writing is so good and the dialog is some of the most naturally written that I have read in a book. It was so clever of the author the way she wove the analogy of broken things being reclaimed and redeemed into the fabric of the book in the many ways that she did.
Paul is now somewhere at the top of my list of favorite heroes. A cowboy with a deep abiding love for his land and his cattle. Swoon! I had never before considered that a rancher might actually care for the individual bovines he owns and would hurt over the pain of the cows when separated from their calves or over the loss of a calf – and not for financial loss.
Having overcome a rough past, he understood redemption in a very personal way. He still wasn’t perfect – the book started out with him making some wrong judgments about what Suzanna was like and he struggled with anger. However, he had an amazing relationship with his family and was a man who knew what he wanted and was willing to do what he had to in order to get it. His tenacious pursuit of Suzanna was a beautiful picture of how Jesus pursues us. Oh, and I kept smiling as his originally derisive nickname of Pickle ended up being an endearment he used in various forms.
True confession. Sometimes when I read a book about a character suffering grief and they keep holding on to their pain, I get frustrated and think, “Can’t she just get a grip and move forward?” I hope this isn’t a lack of compassion on my part and have felt a little like it must be me. Reading Reclaimed where it takes most of the book for Suzanna to heal has shown me I’m not a terrible person. Because I didn’t feel that way at all in this book. I saw the hope and felt great concern for her but I wasn’t frustrated at an attempt by the author to try to convince me how terrible she was feeling because that didn’t happen. Author Jennifer Rodewald did a fantastic job of making sure I saw the deep wounds without making it obnoxious or tiresome.
One of my absolute favorite moments in the book was when Paul and Suzanna were at his river property with his sister and her kids, loading the cattle. He was so overwhelmed with joy that he began to hum “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us”. And it turned into a mini-praise session as the family joined in. Wow! How do you not fall in love with a cowboy like that?
I could go on and on about how much I loved this book but it would be silly for me to do that. After all, you should just read it yourself instead of reading my gushing. Go on. Get a copy. What’s stopping you?
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I would like to thank Jennifer Rodewald for giving me a copy of this book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
April 28, 2025
A beautiful inspirational story of a preacher‘s daughter whose heart was full of so much anger that she couldn‘t find true peace.
April 17, 2017
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! I cannot use that word enough times to express how truly beautiful this story is. It sinks deep into your soul and warms you from the inside out, even when Suzanna has her ‘pickle’ attitude on! And boy can she be a pickle!
Suzanna Wilton reminded me of a wounded animal—and anyone who’s ever tried to help a wounded animal will know that you’re likely to get bitten no matter how good your intentions are. Paul certainly gets bitten, and his natural response is to retreat, lick his wounds, and vow to steer clear, but after some encouragement from his sister (and prodding from the Lord), he sets out to be a friend to ‘The Pickle’.
Paul Rustin . . . What can I say? What a beautiful example he is of God’s unmerited love. He even managed to turn ‘Pickle’ into a term of endearment, and I have to confess I melted a little bit every time he called Suzanna that. Defensive though she was, Suzanna quickly warmed to the genuine friendship shown by both Paul and his family, and watching Paul and Suzanna’s friendship develop and deepen was one of the most beautiful (yes, there’s that word again) reading experiences I have ever had—and that’s allowing for the couple of times I thought my heart would break for these two, because even the deepest and most genuine human love cannot bring another person true peace.
Suzanna’s struggle to find peace was raw, honest, and gripping. She believes in God—she was a pastor’s kid, after all—but if God wasn’t able to prevent her pain in the first place, why would she believe that He could heal her? Surely she’s been forsaken. And yet she can see that Paul has that peace she is looking for. Why can’t she find it? Her struggle is complicated by the fact that one of the most influential men in town is determined to intimidate her into selling the property.
There are no pat answers for Suzanna or Paul, and we have to work through their heartache right alongside them, but I think that is when Christian fiction is at its strongest: when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable with the characters and walk that journey to wholeness with them.
All that is to say, Reclaimed will reach in and swell your heart. It’s beautifully written, beautifully paced, and tells a beautiful story of how God can restore the broken and desolate.
Oh, and did I mention it was beautiful? 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review.
Suzanna Wilton reminded me of a wounded animal—and anyone who’s ever tried to help a wounded animal will know that you’re likely to get bitten no matter how good your intentions are. Paul certainly gets bitten, and his natural response is to retreat, lick his wounds, and vow to steer clear, but after some encouragement from his sister (and prodding from the Lord), he sets out to be a friend to ‘The Pickle’.
Paul Rustin . . . What can I say? What a beautiful example he is of God’s unmerited love. He even managed to turn ‘Pickle’ into a term of endearment, and I have to confess I melted a little bit every time he called Suzanna that. Defensive though she was, Suzanna quickly warmed to the genuine friendship shown by both Paul and his family, and watching Paul and Suzanna’s friendship develop and deepen was one of the most beautiful (yes, there’s that word again) reading experiences I have ever had—and that’s allowing for the couple of times I thought my heart would break for these two, because even the deepest and most genuine human love cannot bring another person true peace.
Suzanna’s struggle to find peace was raw, honest, and gripping. She believes in God—she was a pastor’s kid, after all—but if God wasn’t able to prevent her pain in the first place, why would she believe that He could heal her? Surely she’s been forsaken. And yet she can see that Paul has that peace she is looking for. Why can’t she find it? Her struggle is complicated by the fact that one of the most influential men in town is determined to intimidate her into selling the property.
There are no pat answers for Suzanna or Paul, and we have to work through their heartache right alongside them, but I think that is when Christian fiction is at its strongest: when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable with the characters and walk that journey to wholeness with them.
All that is to say, Reclaimed will reach in and swell your heart. It’s beautifully written, beautifully paced, and tells a beautiful story of how God can restore the broken and desolate.
Oh, and did I mention it was beautiful? 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review.
Read
April 14, 2016This is such a riveting read. From the outset I identified with Suzanne Wilton as the new girl in town. I identified with the struggles she faced trying to make new friends, the uneasiness she felt while attending the local church for the first time, and the indecisiveness she felt while deciding which repair service to trust to repair her well.
Jennifer Rodewald has woven a beautiful tale of beauty reclaimed from ugliness. The ugliness of a landscape stripped of all vegetation due to overuse or the ugliness of a heart wounded many times which now is home to anger and bitterness. A story of how "Love Never Fails".
Paul Rustin, the handsome rancher living next door to Suzanne, is initially thwarted in his endeavors to welcome Suzanne to town. But the love of God constrains him to consistently offer his friendship and business acumen to Suzanne despite her "sour puss" personality.
When Paul's sister Andrea welcomes Suzanne to town she quickly develops an endearing friendship with her. Suzanne shares many family dinners and other adventures with Andrea and her family.
I especially liked the friendship that develops between Suzanne and Andrea's daughter Kelsey. They have kindred spirits. They don't show their emotions readily but their feelings run very deep when facing life's challenges. Especially the emotional trauma of losing a loved one.
The following message is presented clearly - Christianity is not about a religion but about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Suzanne discovers her relationship with Christ after numerous encounters with Paul, Andrea and Kelsey. I wept when she finally reached out for the hand of the Savior who persistently pursued her throughout her life.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are purely my own. I received no monetary compensation for this review.
Jennifer Rodewald has woven a beautiful tale of beauty reclaimed from ugliness. The ugliness of a landscape stripped of all vegetation due to overuse or the ugliness of a heart wounded many times which now is home to anger and bitterness. A story of how "Love Never Fails".
Paul Rustin, the handsome rancher living next door to Suzanne, is initially thwarted in his endeavors to welcome Suzanne to town. But the love of God constrains him to consistently offer his friendship and business acumen to Suzanne despite her "sour puss" personality.
When Paul's sister Andrea welcomes Suzanne to town she quickly develops an endearing friendship with her. Suzanne shares many family dinners and other adventures with Andrea and her family.
I especially liked the friendship that develops between Suzanne and Andrea's daughter Kelsey. They have kindred spirits. They don't show their emotions readily but their feelings run very deep when facing life's challenges. Especially the emotional trauma of losing a loved one.
The following message is presented clearly - Christianity is not about a religion but about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Suzanne discovers her relationship with Christ after numerous encounters with Paul, Andrea and Kelsey. I wept when she finally reached out for the hand of the Savior who persistently pursued her throughout her life.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are purely my own. I received no monetary compensation for this review.
April 24, 2016
04/16: Got this as a Book Bub deal. I am not a romance reader, but I liked this one. I am Christian, but I don't appreciate sugar-coated Christian materials. This one reads true and raw, not shying from the fact that we are all flawed.
Suzanna moves onto her dad's 200 acres in Nebraska after he passes away and leaves his property to her. She's searching for peace, something that as alluded her all her life. Her mom was always cold and disapproving. Her dad was the light of her life, but searching himself. Only at the end do we discover what we really need to know about them, what explains their strained relationship and each one's relationship (or lack thereof) with Jesus.
As Suzanna's friendship with her neighbor Dre and her husband Paul, and their three little girls blossoms, she also forms a friendship with Dre's brother, Paul. At first, finding Suzanna caustic, he nicknames her, "The Pickle," a name that actually becomes his term of endearment for her later on. Paul's a straight-up good guy. Together, they battle the town bullies. In the end truth wins out, and they still don't live happily-ever-after. But, when Truth (with a capital "T") finally wins out, they do. The end.
Spoiler Alert: She's going to start her orchard with apple, cherry, and peach trees.
Suzanna moves onto her dad's 200 acres in Nebraska after he passes away and leaves his property to her. She's searching for peace, something that as alluded her all her life. Her mom was always cold and disapproving. Her dad was the light of her life, but searching himself. Only at the end do we discover what we really need to know about them, what explains their strained relationship and each one's relationship (or lack thereof) with Jesus.
As Suzanna's friendship with her neighbor Dre and her husband Paul, and their three little girls blossoms, she also forms a friendship with Dre's brother, Paul. At first, finding Suzanna caustic, he nicknames her, "The Pickle," a name that actually becomes his term of endearment for her later on. Paul's a straight-up good guy. Together, they battle the town bullies. In the end truth wins out, and they still don't live happily-ever-after. But, when Truth (with a capital "T") finally wins out, they do. The end.
Spoiler Alert: She's going to start her orchard with apple, cherry, and peach trees.
March 8, 2017
Really liked this story.
Glad to find another author to read. Enjoyed the made up town, but wish it was real, some place I might like to visit.
Glad to find another author to read. Enjoyed the made up town, but wish it was real, some place I might like to visit.
January 15, 2016
Peace. One thing this world promises to give through a variety of means and yet never delivers.
Suzanna’s search for peace likely resembles that of many in our world. While her journey may seem predictable to those who have found the peace that only comes through Christ, for someone still searching, Reclaimed may reveal the missing piece. (Pun intended…lol)
Reclaimed captures the struggle of a city girl moving to a small rural community and the challenge of trying to fit in. Fortunately for Suzanna, she has a strong neighbor who encourages her to temper her reactions to the problems that arise. I’m not sure if the characters and resolutions were entirely realistic, but they made a sweet story.
If you are in the mood for a light, clean read with a spirited heroine and steady hero, one which takes faith beyond a list of do’s and do not’s, you may find just what you’re looking for in Reclaimed.
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com.)
Suzanna’s search for peace likely resembles that of many in our world. While her journey may seem predictable to those who have found the peace that only comes through Christ, for someone still searching, Reclaimed may reveal the missing piece. (Pun intended…lol)
Reclaimed captures the struggle of a city girl moving to a small rural community and the challenge of trying to fit in. Fortunately for Suzanna, she has a strong neighbor who encourages her to temper her reactions to the problems that arise. I’m not sure if the characters and resolutions were entirely realistic, but they made a sweet story.
If you are in the mood for a light, clean read with a spirited heroine and steady hero, one which takes faith beyond a list of do’s and do not’s, you may find just what you’re looking for in Reclaimed.
(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com.)
April 5, 2022
Wonderful, faith-filled love story.
The author weaves a beautiful love story between a man and a woman and God. This is a story of pain and redemption. Highly recommend.
The author weaves a beautiful love story between a man and a woman and God. This is a story of pain and redemption. Highly recommend.
January 2, 2016
Reclaimed is an amazing story by Jennifer Rodewald that is beautifully written about a widow in her twenties, Suzana, and how she deals with losing her husband after 6 yrs of marriage and then her father and holds the anger of those losses within. Jennifer Rodewald beautifully develops the characters in this story in a way that keeps you intrigued as to how things will eventually work out. Will Suzana find the source of true peace in her life? A truly emotional read that is beautifully written. I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 18, 2015
Healed
Reclaimed is such a wonderful story that talked about lost, love, friendship, ignorance, etc. It captured the realities of life and the demons that we fight. How easy it is to blame God for the trials that we face in our lives. Suzanna needed to feel real love but was unable to grasp it because she was so broken. It took a man like Paul to provide her some insight on what she's missing out on, God's love. He knew he couldn't fix her but his counsel on his strong belief in God was enough to give Suzanna that awakening.
Reclaimed is such a wonderful story that talked about lost, love, friendship, ignorance, etc. It captured the realities of life and the demons that we fight. How easy it is to blame God for the trials that we face in our lives. Suzanna needed to feel real love but was unable to grasp it because she was so broken. It took a man like Paul to provide her some insight on what she's missing out on, God's love. He knew he couldn't fix her but his counsel on his strong belief in God was enough to give Suzanna that awakening.
April 18, 2016
A justifiable title
I've considered myself a Christian for many years, however, I have never known the peace that this young man and his lady have shared with me. And, because of a book about God's peace and love i am embarking on a new journey to find that peace for myself. Thank you Jennifer Rodewald for writing this story about one woman's struggle to find peace in her Lord and Saviour's hands.
I've considered myself a Christian for many years, however, I have never known the peace that this young man and his lady have shared with me. And, because of a book about God's peace and love i am embarking on a new journey to find that peace for myself. Thank you Jennifer Rodewald for writing this story about one woman's struggle to find peace in her Lord and Saviour's hands.
April 27, 2016
This is a real life story that goes on every day. Susanna and Paul seem like people that we have all met. They have hopes and dreams for a future. They also have hurts from the past. The difference is one faces fears and pain alone and the other has has Jesue
The characters and situations are real. What I liked was the clear way that Jesus was presented. Through the story we learn about Jesus as well as how to meet him personally. I know that was the highlight of my life.
The characters and situations are real. What I liked was the clear way that Jesus was presented. Through the story we learn about Jesus as well as how to meet him personally. I know that was the highlight of my life.
April 29, 2016
Wonderful and touching!
I normally do not write reviews and I read hundreds of books a year, but this one was outstanding. The author takes you places so refreshing, yet deep too. You feel you know the characters personally and that is a rare thing. Beautiful Christian romance. You could feel their love and passion, yet it was a clean romance. Well done!
I normally do not write reviews and I read hundreds of books a year, but this one was outstanding. The author takes you places so refreshing, yet deep too. You feel you know the characters personally and that is a rare thing. Beautiful Christian romance. You could feel their love and passion, yet it was a clean romance. Well done!
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