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My Father's House #1

When Mountains Sing

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When the truth cost her everything, she thought there was nothing left to lose.

Mikayla Gordon loves nothing more than sleeping under the stars, reeling in the “big one,” and long hikes in the wilderness. A medical crisis reveals a 30-year-old secret that turns everything she’s known and believed upside down, unraveling her dreams and her identity.

In search of answers, she follows a trail from Minnesota to Colorado and discovers more unwelcome secrets even as she falls in love with the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, and a wilderness camp leader who shares the greatest secret of all.

Knowing her life can never go back to what it was, she must make decisions that will impact far more than just her future.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 7, 2019

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Stacy Monson

22 books56 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Julia.
3,076 reviews93 followers
August 7, 2019
When Mountains Sing by Stacy Monson is a most delightful contemporary Christian novel and part of the Mosaic Collection.
The novel is a journey of discovery to find out not just who we are but whose we are. We all want to know our roots but they are not nearly as important as knowing to whom we belong. We are a child of God whether we realise it or not. “You were never an oops in His eyes… Your true DNA is found in Him.” No matter what the truth about our conception, each one of us was planned by God. We are “exactly who God meant you [us] to be.”
Within the novel there is the theme of family. “Blood isn’t the only thing that makes a family.” Family is the people who love us and look after us. We are also adopted into God’s family. No matter what our past looks like, we can all have a glorious ending with God.
God is the God of second chances. God sees us not just as we are but as we can become.
Faith is important. We witness characters coming to faith. Faith is not just a declaration that we make, we are called to live out our faith and point others to Jesus. “He just lived his faith in a way that helped me see who God was.”
Within the tale there is a journey and a search. It is a search for a person. Everything is put aside and the search becomes of utmost importance. This can be seen as a motif for God searching for each one of us – He puts everything aside as He relentlessly pursues us.
Stacy Monson has created a wonderful warm atmosphere. The characters were delightfully drawn and the reader feels welcomed in and included.
Life is not always smooth but God is always faithful. Sometimes life’s events point us to Jesus as there really is nowhere else to go. Life always presents us with choices. Our best choice is always to choose Jesus.
I adored When Mountains Sing. It was a fabulous novel that revealed the heart of God. It left me smiling and feeling good. This was my first book by Stacy Monson but I shall certainly be hunting out more by her.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,674 reviews582 followers
August 19, 2019
I'm torn on this book- there are things I liked about it, and things that bothered me. It was difficult for me to get involved in the story and invested in the characters at first, I think because there was a lot of mundane in the narrative. When Mikayla steals DNA from her family members for a DNA test I thought that was pretty unethical, and then her extreme over the top reaction was off-putting. I thought it was strange that she wanted answers but wouldn't listen to anything from the people who had the answers she was looking for. Once she was off on her adventure, calmed down, and got a job at the camp while she waited for someone to return to Colorado, I felt like the real character building began. I was interested in her friendship with Dawson and how he gently led her to a place where she could open up to her fears and turn to God with them. I didn't feel any romantic chemistry on her end- she seemed ambivalent about developing a long-term relationship with him because she had plans to leave. I appreciated the messages of faith and the way Mikayla enjoys her hands-on job of helping the youth fall in love with the outdoors versus writing about it for a magazine. Overall, I think with tighter content editing and more expression from Mikayla about her feelings for Dawson, this would be a fabulous book.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Profile Image for Jane.
1,307 reviews45 followers
August 4, 2019
When I first finished reading When Mountains Sing, my first thought was WOW. Stacy Monson includes so many emotionally charged issues in this book, I was glad I had a Sunday afternoon to read it through - I’m sure thinking about Mikayla would have kept me awake at night. It is a fantastic book. Monson has created realistic characters that readers can relate to. 

Life is not always what it seems, but sometimes the twists and turns of life are what force us to turn to God for direction. That is exactly what happens with Mikayla. Health issues, parental infidelity and more - just when she thinks she has found out all the secrets she is going to find out - another one pops up. The reader may wonder, how much can this poor girl handle. She doesn’t really handle it well, until she realizes her identity is in God - not her family or circumstances.

The journey Mikayla goes on both physically and emotionally takes her many places, Stacy Monson uses these places to create a good story. She also shows readers that family isn’t only blood - adoption, fellow believers, friends, and co-workers can all form a family bond - something good to remember in today’s world of fractured families. 

The twists and turns in the plot may leave the reader wondering - what will Mikayla decide in the end. I found the end of the book to be very satisfying.

Potential Area of Concern

There are a couple of instances of drinking wine. They are very minor - really just mentioned in passing. If this is an area of concern for your audience I recommend you read the book for yourself. 

I would not hesitate to add When Mountains Sing to my K-12 Christian school library. I think the book is appropriate for eighth grade and older. 

I want to thank Stacy Monson and JustRead Publicity Tours for the complimentary e-copy of When Mountains Sing. It is a privilege to participate in the book’s launch. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Laura.
444 reviews32 followers
August 13, 2019
When a group of faith-based authors got together and determined to not only support each other, but to write novels that affirm their faith, the outcome is, without a doubt, a series of novels they will speak to the heart of readers everywhere. Thus, The Mosaic Collection was born.

When the Mountains Sing by Stacy Monson is the first volume in the series My Father’s House and is a true treasure. The author’s previous series, The Chain of Lakes won numerous awards; there is no doubt that Monson has penned the first, but not last, award-winning novel readers will see coming from The Mosaic Collection.

Mikayla Gordon is a lover of the outdoors and am experienced fisherwoman, thanks to beloved father. When she experiences a medical crisis, everything she believed about herself, her family and her world are turned topsy-turvy. Searching for answers to the soul-crushing experience, Mikayla travels from her home in Minnesota to Colorado. It is there, in the majestic Rocky Mountains, that Mikayla accepts employment with a youth wilderness camp.

Expecting to share her own wealth of knowledge and experience with the young campers, Mikayla is surprised by what she learns from her campers, the value of truth and grace.

The beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the wilderness camp and one very handsome owner of the wilderness camp, begins its healing in Mikayla’s hurting heart, but before true and complete healing can be accomplished, there are secrets that need to be exposed. Secrets that have followed her from Minnesota to Colorado; and the secrets the handsome owner of the wilderness camp holds.

The mountains have captured her heart, and so has the handsome wilderness camp owner, will the beauty of the mountains and it’s song, bring the answers Mikayla seeks?

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
Profile Image for Abigail Harris.
Author 51 books260 followers
July 31, 2019

Spoilers!!!
My Review: Hmm, this started out with a bit of a shock for the main character. I was disappointed when we learned just what the secret is that had Mikayla rushing to find out the truth. It's a cliche and honestly to me it was sickening. People read books to escape their troubles, right? And this? It shows the bad side of marriage. No offence to the author but I didn't enjoy the first half of the book. The second half was wonderful! Mikayla and Dawson's relationship was sweet and the camp was an interesting take for a story. I was also felt that is was odd that the heart problems were such a big deal then once she found out her dad was dead she no longer cared.

My Verse for the book is Numbers 32:23 But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sin will find you out. (King James Version.)

Spoilers!!!

Warnings: Cheating, affairs, and unfaithfulness is mentioned a lot, it is also mentioned that a guy was a womanizer and spent time in jail as well as gambled. It is mentioned that a character was abused by their father.

Rating/Recommendation: 3 stars since I enjoyed some of it but didn't love the whole book. 18 up.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Suzie Waltner.
Author 13 books148 followers
September 2, 2019
3.5 stars

This is one book I wavered on. There are some things I really enjoyed about it and others that just didn’t work for me.

The beginning of this book drags a little bit. I can’t help but wonder if the first quarter of the book was delivered in later chapters as backstory would have had more impact. Maybe starting with Makayla’s journey to seek the truth would keep the reader wondering why she wasn’t answering calls or texts from her family. What had sent her on that journey? And her reaction to her mother wouldn’t have been so abrupt if we’ve gotten to know her heart, her fears, and her disappointments a little more.

That said, Stacy Monson paints settings that made me want to visit the mountains of Colorado again. I thoroughly appreciated the relationships Makalya has with her sisters even when their world is turned upside down. And Makayla’s search for her identity and subsequent faith journey are natural and believable.

I also would like to find out what Maggie and Lindy’s own searches for truth would reveal.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Ebosereme Nwamu.
632 reviews70 followers
August 7, 2019
I’ve read books that I could relate to the character(s), but reading about Mikayla in this book was like meeting a kindred spirit. 

I loved the story, I cried with her, I laughed with her, when she was sad, I was sad, her happiness was mine and I waited patiently for her to fall in love too. 

I love the beautiful story of how she went on a journey both physical and spiritual to find answers and to find herself when all she believed turned out not as she thought it was. Her independent nature was so endearing. Her difference and uniqueness was just the highlight of the story for me. Her determination even in the face of lies and “mistakes” was a trait I wouldn’t forget in a one time. 

Then there is Dawson. Awwwww… I love his heart and patience in dealing with the people around him. His heart for all he loved and believed in was inspiring. I love how he treated Mikayla with honour, integrity and respect even when he liked her. The twist and turns that brought and ultimately kept them together was beautifully written by Stacy. 

I loved that the knowledge of God found in nature, prayers and the Word of God was the highlights of this book. I loved the way the characters came to the knowledge of God in their different and unique ways. No two lives are the same, this book thought me that, no two stories are the same either. Each of them had their own “ God story” and “God prod” as Dawson puts it and it was beautifully presented and very relatable. 

I love how God worked behind the scenes even when it looked like He was not aware of what was going on and when it looked like it was just bad happening, was exemplified in this book. All things work together for good to those that love God and are called according to his purpose found complete expression in this book for me. 

The setting of the book was superb, for one, I’d love to visit every place stated in this book. I loved that Mikayla was not the average girl that is interested in all girly things. I admire her love for outdoor and wanting to find her own tribe of women who loved the things she loved. 
Profile Image for Janice Dick.
Author 24 books52 followers
August 21, 2019
One of the best books I’ve read in a while. This one will live in my mind and heart for a long time.

Mikayla Gordon has always known who she is: an outdoorsy woman who prefers hiking and fishing to anything girlie. Although these interests have not helped her to fit in, she has maintained a strong determination to follow her dreams.

Then a long-hidden truth reveals that she has no idea who she is, that everything she believed about herself and her family is false. She is on the verge of losing it all, but instead of giving up, she sets out to find answers.

Running away from the present, looking for truth from the past, Mikayla ends up at an outdoor camp in the Rocky Mountains, and for once in her life, she fits in. When she listens carefully, she can hear the mountains sing.

On the journey to find her identity, Mikayla discovers many things about herself and others, besides facts that bring more pain. Can this mosaic of revelations work together to bring her closure and peace? She can’t remain hidden in this haven forever, especially with her twin sister’s wedding coming up. And what will she do with her strong attraction to Dawson Dunne?

What I liked most about this story is the theme that “Blood isn’t the only thing that makes a family.” (Location 857) “…family means working together toward a common goal, depending on each other, sharing daily life.” (Location 1416) Can this be true for Mikayla and her family? And what of the faith in God she sees all around her at the outdoor camp?

I found the characters strong and individual, each clearly delineated and purposed through theme and plot. The intensity of this story is eased somewhat by the presence of Lula, a small but mighty Chihuahua/Papillon puppy who joins Mikayla on her journey and brings joy into the chaos.

The tale moves along quickly, and it’s almost impossible to put down. The writing is tight and strong, pulling all the necessary elements together a weaving them into a memorable tapestry. This is the first book I’ve read by Stacy Monson, but I will be looking for more.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
1,756 reviews92 followers
August 16, 2019
**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.

Wow, what a powerful book this is! When Mountains Sing is the first book in the Mosaic Collection- a collection featuring books from various Christian writers celebrating faith. If this book is any indication of what we can expect from the rest of the collection, I certainly cannot wait.

It should be noted right from the start that this book deals with some pretty ugly issues: cheating spouses, covered secrets, etc. Though I know that this might be a turn off to some Christian readers, I feel that it was very important to this story. People on earth will disappoint us, but we have to remember that God’s truth is always steady, always unmoving. It is through these difficult experiences that our lead character Mikayla comes to see this.

There are many great themes in this book to include forgiveness and grace, but one of the recurring themes that I really enjoyed was what the story referred to as ‘God prods’... those moments when we can see God at work through little nudges leading us right where he wants us. There are many throughout the story, just as there are many throughout our own lives.

I loved the mountain setting and the outdoorsy feel to this book. To be honest, I’m not much of an outdoor person myself, but reading these lovely descriptions throughout truly made even my non-outdoor person self want to go out and explore God’s beautiful creation. Overall, this was a great read. It is the first that I have read from Stacy Monson, and it certainly has me wanting to read more!
Profile Image for Mandy.
462 reviews19 followers
August 28, 2019
I received an e-copy of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity tours in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.

When Mountains Sing weaves a tale of family, forgiveness and love! This story is sweet, compelling and faith-based.

At first, I felt this book moved somewhat slowly and felt a little repetitive to me as the premise for the story is set and the main character, Mikayla, begins to learn the truth about her past and identity. She continually compares herself to her siblings and parents which leads to questions and answers she wishes she didn’t suddenly have. These answers, and new tumultuous emotions, lead her on a journey to discover who she really is. About one third of the way into the story, more dialogue happens and I really began to enjoy the narrative. Mikayla is a strong character. When she finds herself in the mountains of Colorado, the story really began to unfold and become interesting in my opinion. Readers will follow along as she goes on a journey to discover herself, her heritage and her faith as she overcomes anger, grief and eventually learns to forgive. While the plot is predictable, Monson does a lovely job of creating great characters that are likable and relatable. I enjoyed how she incorporated strong faith elements into the story and offers readers a glimpse of how God can bring things together for good when we submit to Him. The ending is sweet and I found myself rooting for Mikayla and Dawson the whole time. Overall, a great book with a touching story that I recommend as a cozy weekend read!
Profile Image for Eleanor Bertin.
Author 19 books171 followers
August 8, 2019
Stacy Monson’s compelling novel, When Mountains Sing ties together twin themes of belonging and identity. What makes us who we are? Is it family and relationships, which, incidentally, are beautifully, genuinely and positively portrayed here? Or is our identity found in our vocation and interests? The natural world is so vividly described in Monson’s writing that it becomes a well-beloved character.
Mikayla Gordon, a fearless outdoors enthusiast and ambitious magazine writer stands to lose it all when a fluke health crisis leads her to investigate her family history. She discovers that DNA testing, so popular and eagerly sought out these days, has a down-side. Panicked and confused by the unexpected results, she heads west to the Colorado Rockies seeking out the father she never knew. Her anger and sense of betrayal at discovering the secret grow as she faces one setback after another on her quest. Issues of trust and identity are skillfully explored in this not-so-light novel. There’s a welcome hint of romance, and just like real-life, not everything is wrapped up by the end, allowing readers to take the characters with them after they close its pages.
I particularly like a book with substance, and this one doesn’t shy away from questions of forgiveness, of meaning and of God’s purposes in suffering, making for a thought-provoking read.
182 reviews
August 1, 2019
Wind through the trees, birdsong, a symphony in the woods makes the mountains sing!

What a wonderful read Stacy Monson has produced! Her character development is so real and rich, I feel I became friends with Mikayla and Dawson, and didn’t want to say goodbye to them! I especially loved her dad and their special, deep relationship. And Lula – what a sweet little dog!
Mikayla is such a strong character, at least strong on the outside, but struggles with identity issues after a fluke illness sparks a longing to find her biological father. Her search leads to the Outlook Adventure Camp in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Here she is able to fully incorporate her love of the outdoors with her aspiration to instruct young girls in how to embrace their own unique strengths. Dawson, who now runs the camp, befriends Mikayla and guides her in the true path to her DNA roots.

It’s a story of friendships, forgiveness, unconditional love, and encouragement. I highly recommend, and you’ll love just the experience of reading this book.

I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to write a positive review; all opinions are my own.
1,093 reviews10 followers
September 5, 2019
In my opinion, it is an indication of a pretty good book when a character elicits strong reactions from me as a reader. Mikayla Gordon did just that to me. While I could empathize with her unexpected medical emergency, her reactions seemed a bit over-the-top to me, especially the sneaky methods she used to collect DNA samples of her family. Then her refusal to listen to explanations was also somewhat disturbing. So, although I definitely did not always agree with this character, I did find her story intriguing and was encouraged by the spiritual growth that was revealed as it progressed.

When Mountains Sing is a fun to read tale of family secrets, forgiveness, spiritual growth, and reconciliation with a touch of romance. I enjoyed the background setting in the mountains of Colorado with its vivid descriptions, especially Dawson’s version of how the mountains sing. Overall this is an excellent book and I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it. I am sure other readers will enjoy it also.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
1,575 reviews30 followers
September 13, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

As I read this book, I couldn't help but wonder how I would feel to find out devastating news that would rip our family to shreds. This is just what happened to Mikayka Gordon. And following her journey to find answers was hurtful yet interesting. The cast of characters were a delightful group and I enjoyed the close knit family. I did feel so bad for Mikayla, my heart was just breaking as she started finding answers to her past life. The author does a very nice job of creating the tension to keep readers interesting, and then weaving the many loose ends and the surprising twists to the story together to create a beautiful ending. This is a beautiful Heartwarming read that I recomend for your enjoyment. 

A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Profile Image for Lori.
1,892 reviews136 followers
August 6, 2019
I really enjoyed this book because I can so relate to Mikayla.
I too have heart issues. I had two holes in my heart and the patches weren't big enough and therefore has left a slight heart murmur.
I thank God he's seen fit to let me live this long.
And like Mikayla I've not let it slow me down. I'm doing all the things I love to do. Hint: my heart problems were when I was 2.
I've felt like Mikayla in throwing up my hands many times especially when I get frustrated
I loved this authors writing and I really loved this story.
I enjoyed the book so much that I didn't want to put the book down.
I loved that the author never let Mikayla slow down and took her and us on a journey of a lifetime.
I've felt like I was revisiting many of these places.
As they say the mountains are calling!
If you want to go on a journey of a lifetime this story is for you.
My thanks to the publisher for this beautiful story!
No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!!
Profile Image for Alyssa.
435 reviews8 followers
August 2, 2019
I loved this book immediately. I am a woman who enjoys the great outdoors so I could easily identify with Mikayla on that. The fact that she works in a male dominated field was awesome and inspiring. I love the close relationship between her and her father. I also really enjoyed the rest of the characters as well. Each was well developed and felt completely real.

The struggles Mikayla endured made her more human and I enjoyed seeing her overcome them. She is such a strong character with issues to work through. I was inspired by her journey.

The writing was so vivid; it made me feel like I was there. Monson was able to draw me into this story so quickly that I finished the book much quicker than I had planned!

I highly recommend this book to anyone. It’s definitely worth the read.
Profile Image for Becca (Reflections From My Bookshelves).
226 reviews17 followers
September 14, 2019
My Review

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a book about Mikayla journey as she figures out her life and relationship to God. I thought that Mikayla was relatable. She was a fun character to get to know. Dawson as well. I felt like I could picture the camping and the scenes clearly as I was reading them.  I am not a big camping, outdoorsy person but I enjoyed being able to “camp” through this book. I liked that Stacy Monson weaves God’s truth throughout the book without it feeling preachy. I really like the quote. “Your true DNA is found in Him. You’re identity is child of God, His beloved.” I found it very encouraging.  I think the reader can learn valuable truths found within this novel.

I recommend this book to my family and friends.

I received this book from the publisher to read and give my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own
Profile Image for Julie.
Author 6 books31 followers
August 10, 2019
You will love Hiker Girl!

Real characters, real struggles, really great story.
How does an author put difficult circumstances in a story yet at the end the author has caused the reader's heart to soar and be changed? I don't know, but Stacy Monson and her cast of characters, all affected me. I am not an outdoorsperson, but I ended the book seriously thinking about getting hiking boots and a backpack. All because of Hiker Girl, Mikayla Gordon. Stacy's writing is straightforward, never slows down, delights, surprises, and made me laugh out loud at some of the comebacks! A superb read. I highly recommend this not-put-downable book.
Profile Image for Robin Mason.
Author 11 books81 followers
September 19, 2019
This story made ME sing!! The Rockies and Colorado (my heart), hiking and being outdoors (also my heart), ministering to hurting kids—my heart! BONUS: Twins! I’ve always been fascinated with twins and multiples!
Ms. Monson’s story struck so many nerves on so many levels—I sank into this story and didn’t want to come back out.
We all search for something at some point in our lives. Sometimes that search is to seek answers to secrets. Sometimes it’s to find a missing person. Or an absent one. Almost always, our search involves discovering some element of our identity.
Oh, how I admired and applauded Mikayla’s quest when she could have just walked away and not looked back. Or pretended like nothing had happened and done nothing. Or imploded and sunk into depression.
As happens with soul quests, Mikayla found far more than what she set out looking for.
The people she encountered on her journey each played a part, each one providing a piece of the puzzle that is her life. Some chance encounters, some new and lifelong friends. I appreciated that the author didn’t make Mikayla’s quest an easy one, while not being so difficult as to crush her spirit. I read eagerly, as anxious as Mikayla herself to find the answers, and peace.

Like me, the mountains sing to Mikayla, are a balm to her bruised heart. Ms. Monson has gifted the reader with a raw story that touches the heart, ravages then sooths jagged nerves, and tumbles the emotions of the reader before the final note trills on the wind.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

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


#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Wednesday, #TRD, Book Review, When Mountains Sing, Stacy Monson, Mosaic Collection, JustRead Publicity Tours
Profile Image for HeatherS.
384 reviews16 followers
September 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this sweet, encouraging story filled with family drama, reminders of God's love and acceptance and a bit of romance.

Writer and outdoor lover Mikayla Gordon has a sudden health scare that stops her in her tracks. She finds out that her issue is likely heredity, so when nobody in her immediate family (including her twin sister) tests positive for the same issue, she becomes suspicious of her heritage and starts to dig for more information. After dragging a long kept secret out of her parents Mikayla is devastated and lost. She embarks on a journey to find out who she is and who she is important to. She ends up in the Colorado Rocky Mountains working as a wilderness camp leader with the kind and gentle God loving Dawson who runs the camp. Dawson kindly encourages and teaches her about God's love for her and how she has a place with him even when it feels like she doesn't have a place in the world. That was the best part of this book for me - that reminder of how God loves and cares for us and even though people often let us down God never will and we can always find reassurance and belonging with him. I thought the author did a very good job of showing this through an engaging story of Mikayla's circumstances and the people that God brings into her life along the way. I enjoyed the characters in the one and was rooting for them to have a "happy ending" for sure. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Just Read Tours and a positive review is not required, all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Ruth Hill.
1,115 reviews646 followers
August 19, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

First of all, for all readers who are looking for quality, clean, Christian fiction, this is a book I can recommend. No profanity, no sex, and Christian principles are emphasized throughout. The story deals with real issues, but it tackles them in a wholesome way.

The most difficult thing I had to overcome in this book was the practically unbelievable premise--at least, to me. I grew up in a family where basically everything was out in the open. Communication may not have been perfect, but the kind of cover-up that occurs in this story goes beyond my way of thinking. I suppose it could happen, but I cannot imagine that.

It took me a little while to relate to the characters, I admit. Mikayla was a bit of a hard sell for me. But once I began to see her story unfold, I realized the soul-searching journey she was on. And in addition that, this journey took her far beyond what she ever expected. I could have used a few lighter situations throughout, but the author did a pretty good job of tackling a serious topic in a manageable, readable way. I appreciated the way in which Mikayla's journey took a spiritual turn in addition to her original purpose. There were a couple twists and turns along the way, but the fact that God figured into her story so implicitly truly resonated with me.
Profile Image for Christi.
1,160 reviews34 followers
September 21, 2019
I have been eagerly awaiting the release of the Mosaic Collection series and let me tell you When Mountains Sing was the perfect way to start this unique collection. If I could give six stars I would! Raw and real, Mikayla Gordon is searching to find a piece of herself that she didn't realize was even missing. Circumstances that are out of her control thrust her into a journey of self discovery that we all can relate to in one way or another. Seeing the fingerprints of God all over this unfortunate situation gives the reader hope amiss their own unfavorable circumstances, reminding us all that God does use all things for His good and His purpose.

This is the first novel that I've read by Stacy Monson and wow what an introduction! How she is able to flesh out her characters with such depth and put the reader on that mountain with stunning imagery is a pure talent. I am a sucker for a good ending and characters that I personally connect with and When Mountains Sing delivers. Though there is predictability in parts as a whole it is utter perfection, leaving me reading the last page with goosebumps and genuinely sad to see this incredible novel come it its conclusion.

A truly captivating, faith-filled novel that was motivational and inspirational, When Mountains Sings was truly a joy and honor to read.
Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,652 reviews155 followers
reviewed
September 23, 2019
Another book set in Colorado: yay! With plenty of outdoorsy adventure amidst the search for identity and discovery of faith, When Mountains Sing delivers an interesting story, to be sure.

After discovering a truth that calls into question what she thought she knew about herself, Mikayla Gordon needs answers. To find them, she heads on an adventure from Minnesota to Colorado and winds up at a camp, where she might find exactly what she needs.

There were times when I struggled with this novel simply because I did not always get what I needed to understand Mikayla, which made some aspects of her story not entirely believable. Still, throughout the narrative, Stacy Monson drops valuable, faith-filled insight that made the reading worthwhile. Plus, the Rocky Mountains, of course.

This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for ELMorehead.
286 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2019
Can Anything or Anything Heal The Hole in Mikayla's Heart?

A major health crisis, leads Outdoor Magazine Writer Mikayla, angrily away from her Minnesota family & job, to Colorado seeking answers to her true identity.

Dawson's Colorado Outdoor Youth Camp desperately needs a new female employee to round out his Summer Camps. Dawson meets Mikayla while both are hiking in the Colorado Mountains. Is Mikayla the answer to his need?

Will Mikayla's dream, of a place where she can share her love of Nature with other like-minded females, come true? How does pint-sized Lula bring comfort and laughter into Mikayla's life? Where should she look for her next job? How does Nature show how to live a Christian life? Is Dawson as drawn to Mikayla, as she is drawn to him? Is God the answer to heal her relationship with her family? You'll need to read Stacy Monson's Fantastic Story, "When Mountains Sing" to find out!
I Couldn't Stop Reading, once I started. I Highly Recommend You Get this Masterpiece!! 💖📓📖💖
Profile Image for Sunnie.
1,003 reviews48 followers
August 3, 2019
Mikayla's life was going in the directions she chose, everything was good. Suddenly the unexpected...a health issue that brings huge changes in her life, but changes not solely with her health...but with her entire being. Her life as she knew it.

Leaving her home to find answers brings even more life changing events. Some not so good, others good. Learning, forgiving as well as overcoming becomes her life.

I related so personally to this book. It touched me very much. Why, because I recently found my mother's father, in a similar situation, and I know that people make mistakes, they try to do better, and sometimes that is hard and difficult for others to understand that have not experienced those mistakes, and the feelings and longings to find the truth.

I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading more of this fascinating series!

I received an ebook copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Sharon Dean.
312 reviews15 followers
August 16, 2019
A new to me Author, I now can add another favorite Author to my list. Stacy's ministry in When Mountains Sing is top notch writing with characters I adored and now think about often as I go through my day. A powerful, heartfelt story that has your emotions all over the place. A story that we can all relate to in some fashion, one of showing us we need to forgive and trust in Him, that His timing is spectacular. And that He loves us no matter what! That He sees us for who we are meant to be, flaws and all, He loves us and guides our lives. Makayla and Dawson's story is one I could not put down. I loved how Stacy took us on journeys through the mountains and created such a picturesque view that made me feel as if I was truly there. I look so forward to reading more of Stacy's ministry and those who make up the Mosaic Collection.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,835 reviews160 followers
August 17, 2019
When Mountains Sings is a wonderful story of love, family, faith, and acceptance. We are reminded that family is not determined by blood ties and the greatest love and acceptance comes from our relationship with God. This is the first book of the My Father's House series that is part of the new Mosaic Collection and I am so glad that I was able to read it. It is also my first Stacy Monson book and I will certainly look for more of her books!

I recommend this book to all who enjoy Christian romance and faith-based fiction.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts in this review.
You can read my full blog review at Older & Smarter? https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
1,358 reviews
November 23, 2019
Mikayla is an outdoors enthusiast writing for an outdoors magazine who dreams of heading a section geared to females in a male-dominated forum. Her ultimate dream is to start a camping experience especially for females.

During a medical procedure, she discovers that her father is not her bio dad (among other secrets) and sets off on her own to find her bio dad and ultimately herself. On her travels she meets and works briefly as a guide for Dawson, who runs a faith-based outdoor adventure camp in Colorado.

Dawson helps her to overcome some of her grief and anger and to search out and draw nearer to God and His plan for her life (with a hint of romance thrown in as well).

Not perfect but a well-written story. I would definitely read more in the series.
Profile Image for Marta Aldrighetti.
562 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2019
Minnesota.
Three sisters, very different each other: Maggie the eldest loves books, Mikayla and Lindy are twins.
Mikayla, 30 yo, loves wild, hiking, mountain, while Lindy loves dresses and the beauty.
The book is big, more then 350 pages, but very enjoyable, easy to read, realistic, very good characters.
Life is a great journey with challenges, joy, problems, race, love.
"We taught me that with strength comes responsability. Freedom has a cost. I could have both if I understand that and put it into practice."
I feel the same of Mikayla about the mountain. Mountain helps and heals the soul, it can change the people. Nature is wonderful.
Profile Image for April Kidwell.
Author 4 books42 followers
September 29, 2019
This was a difficult book to read. The narrative was fine, and there was a lot of narrative in the first part of the book, but also some secrets revealed that tossed around life’s messier side. (I prefer to read to escape more of the mess.)

I liked that the heroine is portrayed as a strong, independent, outdoor-loving woman. But some of her reactions and assumptions early in the book soured me on her. On the other hand, who knows how we would deal with life altering news?

With a strong faith element, I think that getting past the slow build-up to the unfolding story of healing that comes in the mountains of Colorado will be worth it for a lot of readers.
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