Here for You: A Clean and Wholesome Romance

Family Is Forever #2

by Pat Simmons

Emotional, poignant women's fiction from acclaimed inspirational romance author Pat Simmons featuring a hero and heroine who are better at taking care of other people than themselves, a dark moment that shakes their faith, and a profoundly satisfying happy ending. Caregivers sometimes need a little TLC too. Rachel Knicely's life has been on hold for six months while she takes care of her great aunt, who has Alzheimer's. Putting her aunt first was an easy decision—accepting that Aunt Tweet is nearing the end of her battle is far more difficult. Nicholas Adams's ministry is bringing comfort to those who are sick and homebound. He responds to a request for help for an ailing woman but when he meets the Knicelys, he realizes Rachel is the one who needs support the most. Nicholas is charmed by and attracted to Rachel, but then devastating news brings both a crisis of faith and roadblocks to their budding relationship that neither could have anticipated. Fans of Christian romance and inspirational stories will love this clean and wholesome romance exploring the challenges of family—and the rewards—when you open your heart to faith, hope, and love… Praise for Lean On Me , Book 1 in the Family Is Forever "As wonderful as a warm embrace… Simmons's cleverly crafted characters slip into your heart from the first page."—Tina DeSalvo, bestselling author "Romantic, romantic, romantic—a great read, romance, and story of family."—Lyn Cote, USA Today bestselling author "Reading a Pat Simmons novel is a treat. I loved this book."—Vanessa Riley, bestselling author "The heartwarming bonds of family and friendship…[are] sure to tug at readers' heartstrings."— Publishers Weekly

Genres: Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction

290 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2020

About the author

Pat Simmons is a multi-published Christian romance author of forty-plus titles. She is a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth who is passionate about researching her ancestors, then casting them in starring roles in her novels. She is a five-time recipient of the RSJ Emma Rodgers Award for Best Inspirational Romance: Still Guilty, Crowning Glory, The Confession, Christmas Dinner, and Queen’s Surrender (To A Higher Calling). Pat’s first inspirational women’s fiction, Lean On Me, with Sourcebooks, was the February/March Together We Read Digital Book Club pick for the national library system. Here for You and Stand by Me are also part of the Family is Forever series. Her holiday indie release, Christmas Dinner, and traditionally published, Here for You were featured in Woman’s World, a national magazine. Here for You was also listed in the “7 Great Reads That Help to Keep the Faith” by Sisters From AARP. She contributed an article, “I’m Listening,” in the Chicken Soup for the Soul: I’m Speaking Now (2021). Pat is the recipient of the 2022 Leslie Esdaile “Trailblazer” Award given by Building Relationships Around Books Readers’ Choice for her work in the Christian fiction genre.

As a Christian, Pat describes the evidence of the gift of the Holy Ghost as a life-altering experience. She has been a featured speaker and workshop presenter at various venues across the country. Pat has converted her sofa-strapped sports fanatical husband into an amateur travel agent, untrained bodyguard, GPS-guided chauffeur, and administrative assistant who is constantly on probation. They have a son and a daughter. Pat holds a B.S. in mass communications from Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts and has worked in radio, television, and print media for more than twenty years. She oversaw the media publicity for the annual RT Booklovers Conventions for fourteen years. Visit her at www.patsimmons.net.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally not my normal type of book but I read the first one when it was a special read on Libby. But I really like the characters and will surely read the next one.

[ShayBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here For You is the second installment in the Family is Forever series. Three Sisters has taken on the responsibility of taking care of their Aunt Tweet, each one is taking over the role as caregiver for six months at a time. In this story it is Rachel‘s turn and Aunt Tweets health is declining very rapidly and it is taking a toll on Rachel. Tabitha, Rachel’s sister puts a call in for Minister Nicholas Adams to visit her aunt and sister for prayer. When visiting the two he finds himself attracted to Rachel and ends up becoming her caregiver.


Just like the first story in this series it really hit home and touched my heart tremendously. I understand what these sisters went through and how it affected them. I enjoyed this story very much, it was very relatable and had some funny parts. I believe everything happens for a reason and people are in our lives for a season and reason. Thanks to her sister Rachel was given Minister Adams at the right season just when she needed him when her faith was starting to waiver. This was an emotional storyline, as caregivers we give so much to everyone else and we forget what we need. Great job author Pat Simmons. I highly recommend this series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ellowyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read by Pat Simmons. Sometimes in life, the caregiver needs to be taken care of and ministered to. Three sisters take turns taking care of their Aunt Tweet who was like a mother to them and who passes away from Alzheimer's. One of the sisters gives her life to the Lord as she's grieving the loss of her aunt. She later finds out she is sick. This story is well written and definitely a page-turner.

[DeenaKay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started reading these books cause of the aunt and when she passed I was disappointed. I didn't see me liking it any more because I am not a romance book reader. But it turned amazing. Now anxious to read the next.

[W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Reading

Great reading. Love in any season is good. But love in the midst of a medical battle is encouraging, motivating and filled with points to TRUST God.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book - I’ve never read this author but I have her other book on reserve at the library

[Lindsey Haderlie Boulier · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are not enough stars to express how much I loved this book!!! It made me cry!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pat Simmons is releasing her second novel in the Family is Forever Series, and I stayed up way too late last night to read the whole book in one sitting. It is just that engrossing and compelling to read. Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and a man with a melodic voice to read scripture to you.

Aunt Tweet was introduced in the first book of this series, Lean on Me, as she was beginning her descent into dementia. In this book, her deterioration comes quickly, but not before Tabitha calls a church near Rachel to send a minister to pray for Rachel and Aunt Tweet. The minister who shows up at the door is Nicholas Adams, a fine looking man with a gentle way about him and a deep faith. He reads Psalm 23 for Aunt Tweet and when he comes to the verse about the valley of the shadow of death, Rachel breaks down. She knows she is losing Aunt Tweet and she doesn't cope well at all.

Through the prayer ministry of the church, Rachel is introduced to some people who will become so important to her, especially Mother Jenkins. Mother Jenkins is a "take no prisoners" kind of woman who talks to God with expectation. She is also protective of Minister Adams, and warns him away from "Jezebels" who would destroy him.

Pat has shown through this novel that life is messy, even the Christian life. It comes with no promises of a rosy, well-ordered being that glides right on through to eternity. Almost immediately after surrendering her life to Christ, Rachel finds a lump in her breast that sends her on a tailspin into depression and denial, but Nicholas' steadfast presence in her life keeps her from capsizing entirely. I loved the way Pat handled Rachel's illness and her responses to the diagnosis and treatment. Rachel's actions and reactions were real for the situations she was involved in. Nicholas' attitudes and dedication to Rachel made him the perfect match for her, especially the way he kept her family in the loop about her health and well-being.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough, but the reader will want to have a free afternoon/evening to read it. It is just that enthralling.

SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Here for You" by Pat Simmons is a story about love, faith, and resilience.

Successful career woman by day and fun-loving party girl by night, Rachel Knicely adores her beloved Aunt Tweet, but is challenged when Alzheimer's tightens its grip on the elderly woman. Being a caregiver exposes Rachel's insecurities but opens the door to a new relationship with God. Minister Nicholas Adams offers her godly guidance and friendship, but is it the wrong time for them to explore the possibility of a deeper connection?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was an excellent follow-up to the first book in the series. The author's insight into human nature allows the reader to accompany the main female character on a journey of ups and downs as she struggles to walk the thin line between faith and fear. 

The characters were likeable and relatable, and I definitely saw some similarities between myself and Rachel in her attempts to apply what she has read in the Bible to her actual, everyday life. It underscores the need to read and know the Bible for oneself. While it's important to lean on others stronger in the faith, there comes a time when we must "know that we know that we know" God for ourselves. Our eternal lives depend on it. 

This book is intended for a Christian audience. Those who are not interested in Christ's redemptive power will most likely not enjoy this novel. It will definitely be a blessing to those who read it. I look forward to the next installment in the series. 

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is second in the Family is Forever series.
Story starts out with fun loving-party girl Rachael Knicely putting her life on hold for 6 months as she Rachael and her sisters are taking turns as caregivers for their beloved great aunt, Aunt Tweet who has Alzheimer’s.
Rachael’s sister Tabitha turns to Minister Nicholas Adams for spiritual help.
Although Nick feels a connection to Rachel, he keeps a respectful distance.
Soon Rachel finds herself in the situation from being a caretaker to now needing a caregiver.

This story is about the family bond of love and friendship in good as well as hard times.
Those who follow Christian spiritual stories as well first timers who are interested in reading a story about love and Christ’s healing will enjoy this emotional story.

Note: I always enjoy reading the Author’s Notes. I feel like I am getting the “Inside scoop” on and the author’s research and inspiration for their stories.

Want to thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this early release granted to me in exchange for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 1, 2020

[Cassandra Haywood · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is Rachel Knicely’s turn to watch Aunt Tweet who is suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia, after her two other sister’s Tabaitha and Kym turns. While working a full time job and being a caregiver for Aunt Tweet, Tabaitha contacts a church there in Nashville where a minister can go to see Aunt Tweet and pray for her. Nicholas Adams is the minister that is assigned for the home visit.
Upon meeting Rachel and Nicolas meeting you can see the mutual attraction between the two.
I love the characters development and they felt so real to me because of one of tragedy events that happened to Rachel hit home for me.
The way the author incorporated God’s Word of scriptures throughout the storyline was very inspirational and gives you words of wisdom to meditate on and live by.
This storyline is an excellent read. My attention was held from the beginning until the end and what a beautiful ending it was to me.
I highly recommend this book to read and I look forward to reading the last sister Kym’s story hopefully soon.
Cassandra H.
I received a ARC of this book from Netgalley and this review is of my own honest opinion and thoughts.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second book to this series, Pat Simmons takes you on an emotional journey that will keep you wondering what will happen next all the way to the end. Aunt Tweet has been in the Knicley's girls lives since the beginning. The three of them decide to take care of their elderly aunt, who has been afflicted with Alzheimer's. Rachel is the baby of the family, and her turn is up. While she is trying to keep her mind from going crazy, she meets Nicholas Adams, a minister sent to pray for her and her aunt. As time passes and they start to get close, something happens that rocks the faith of everyone involved. At this point, only God can help. But is his will for them to be together, or is one of them on a temporary assignment?

You will need tissue while reading this book. Not only was this an emotional and tear jerking read, it was nice to see an update to some of the characters in the first book. Pat has a way of drawing you in from the very beginning until you don't want to stop reading. Very well done job

I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Burgundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an early copy from NetGalley. This is the second book dealing with the kNicely Sisters. This time we dive more into Rachel KNicely. The KNicely sisters are revolving caretakers for their aunt tweet and now its Rachel's turn. Aunt Tweet suffers from dementia/Alzheimers. Aunt Tweet quickly detoriates in this book and feeling that her sister needs prayer Her sissy Tabitha calls on a local church to send someone to pray for her family. In walks Nicholas Adams. From meeting the Pastor this book takes off. I laughed, I cried, I felt all kinds of emotions reading this book and you will too. There are periods of sadness and but the thing that resonated with me is even though this is a Christian book. It was not overly preachy. I enjoyed this book immensely and can't wait for Kym Knicely's story.

[MidnightAce Book Bar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here For You brings us back with more of Aunt Tweet and Knicely sisters. This time the care rotation is with Racheal, the youngest of the Knicely clan.

Racheal made all the necessary arrangements to have both quality and quantity time with her aunt. Even best-laid plans are can be tested. When aunt Tweet's health deteriorates, the sisters try to brainstorm on what action to take. Tabitha and Kim can tell its time to bring in reinforcements. Help for Rachel comes in the form of a minister for a local church, Nicholas Adams. He proves to be just what is needed in such a time as this.

The author gives us many examples of dealing with faith, how to yield to God's control, and people coming in our lives for a reason, season, and even a lifetime...

I enjoyed this and looking forward to what's next. I recommend this for your reading pleasure.

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by Pat Simmons, but it definitely won’t be my last. Here for You is a clean, inspirational, Faith-based novel with many wonderful characters. I absolutely loved Nicholas as the hero. He is a devoted man that doesn’t give up, once he is all in for his relationship with Rachel. Rachel and Nicholas first meet when he comes to pray with her Aunt Tweet, Priscilla Brownlee. Rachel figures after Aunt Tweet passes, then Nicholas will no longer be around. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say I loved these sisters and their relationship. When Rachel needed them, they sure stepped up to the plate. I can’t wait to go back and read how Marcus and Tabitha got together and to read Kim’s story when it’s published.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Netgalley ❤️Rachel refuses to accept that gpher great aunt Priscilla is dying.priscilla is eighty five years old.she has Alzheimer's. She is very important to the sisters.i liked how Priscilla was cared for. Nicholas is a project manager and a minister. Nicholas is called to visit Priscilla. Rachel is a civil engineer which I liked. I loved the gain Nicholas had.Ithought Nicholas was a bit judgemental about Rachel's appearance while care giving.it was slow paced the connection between Rachel and Nicholas.Nicholas was being respectful of Priscilla's death but I loved when he made the first move. I felt saddened by Rachel's breast cancer fear but it added a extra element to the story.I loved Rachel and felt for her but some of her feelings and lack of faith was frustrating

[Ann Readyoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

#HereForYou#Net Galley
First read by this author but it will not be my last. The book opens with three sisters who are taking care of their Aunt Tweet who has Alzheimer's. It is Rachael's turn to care for her aunt. Rachel 's sister Tabitha calls the church and asks that a preacher visits her Aunt. Nick is the visiting preacher and makes a connection with Rachael . As time passes Nick is attracted to Rachael. After her aunt passes away Nick is still there for Rachael. As their relationship grows Rachael has a serious health crisis. What will happen to their relationship ? Who will be there, and who will Rachael let in ? What will happen? Read this wonderful book and find out. Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this book.

[Barbara James · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was surprised that Aunt Tweet died so early in the book, because I was looking forward to seeing each of the sisters grow in faith and life through becoming her caretaker.

I realize that the series could have begun with the first caretaker, not the second. That would have meant the three sisters could have each experienced their own happily ever after in their own time throughout the series.

The book didn't really pick up until Rachel had her own health crisis after Aunt Tweet died. That is where I really felt that she and Nicholas were really tested in their faith and in their relationship, not in those early moments of dating when Nicholas was overly concerned about managing their attraction in light of the proprieties, for example, avoiding socializing one-on-one.

[Cherise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful Christian romance that allows the reader to follow Rachel Knicely and Minister Nicholas Adams through a budding relationship that's tried and tested through no fault of their own.

Pat Simmons has a way of creating lovable characters and adorable men who really know how to treat a woman. I caught myself smiling as I read some of the text, and I quietly rooted for Rachel and Nicholas. What a sweet story! (It reminds me of a book by Kim Cash Tate that I also recommend: Hidden Blessings).

There are a two grammatical mistakes in Chapter 4 and another error later in the book, but that won't stop me from heading over to book three in the series. Lovely storytelling, Mrs, Simmons!

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel and her sisters are taking six months shifts caring for their much loved Great Aunt Tweet as she descends into Alzheimers. Her sister Tabby had the first round (and was the subject of the first book- but this is fine as a standalone) and while things were rough, they've gotten worse. Nicholas Adams, a minister who works with families and caregivers, brings light to Rachel, who's feeling quite overwhelmed. And then, Rachel finds a lump. Nicholas and a strong Christian faith carry her through a difficult time. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is sensitively written and will be a most welcome read for those seeking clean, faith filled love stories.

[Margie Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, Life and Passion

This book reminds us of how precious and valuable life is. Rachel's life changed so swiftly without any warning. At one point she was caring for her dying Aunt Tweet who was suffering with Alhzeimers. Then without any warning she was diagnosed with breast cancer. However, with the support of her sisters, friend and Nicholas Adams (Minister Adams) she becomes an overcomer. A wonderful story that tests faith and real challenges of life. Alzheimer's disease is real and very present among us as well as breast cancer. Our support group makes a world of difference in how we cope and survive life's challenges.

[Juanita · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was well written. It took you on a roller coaster of emotions. The bond between the 3 sisters and how they were there for one another was the highlight for me. To go from caregiver to the one needing care was tough. It was Rachel's turn to take care of Aunt Tweet who had dementia. Not knowing she would need a caregiver herself. I enjoyed the powerful lady minister and best friend who also stepped up to support and help. The romance between Rachel and Minister Adams was sweet, I wanted more. Looking forward to the update in book 3 of the series. Overall I would recommend you pick up this book, you may need a few tissues.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's for You is a nice solid read. Three sisters rotate caring for their ailing elderly relative. Rachel, the youngest, feels she has been cheated the most since her great aunt has been very difficult. The care rotation shifts back to another sister in Nashville and Rachel meets a local minister, Nicholas. The romance between them is sweet and steady. Rachel faces a major life hurdle but prevails with Nicholas at her side. The themes of family, friends, faith, and hope are prevalent. Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the early copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel and his sisters have taken over caregiving responsibility for their beloved Aunt Tweet. They each take a 6 month rotation, and this novel centers on Rachel’s time. Caregiving is tough, and Rachel is struggling. Nicholas , a local pastor, comes to comfort Aunt Tweet, but feelings for Rachel begin to grow as well.

This is a thoughtful novel about love, family, caregiving and opening your heart despite adversity. Give it a try!

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Eli Dhios · Rating 2 out of 5]

Here we have Rachel Knicely and minister Nicholas Adams's love story. I enjoyed the family dynamics and the few moments where there were actual romance, but all and all this was not for me. The writing felt too detailed and it seemed to never end, and also the overly christian parts had me rolling my eyes. I mean, we know they are christians and they read the bible and pray. But is it necessary to tell us they do this christian things every 2 lines?

I'm sure most people would enjoy this, just not my style of romance novel.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ebook ARC!

[TLynn]

Here for You is the second book in the Family is Forever series, but I found it to be good as a stand-alone. The book was full of emotions and the characters seemed so real. One minute I was happy and the next I was crying. The book was beautifully written, and the author did a great job getting across the feelings that family members have when a loved one has Alzheimer’s or cancer. The Knicely’s friends and family gave Rachel so much love and support as she went through her chemo. It was a heartwarming book to read.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the Family is Forever series. It is Christian fiction and an enjoyable read. This is Rachel's story as she and her sisters care for their elderly aunt who is stricken with Alzheimer's disease. Have you box of Kleenex ready. Nicholas is the pastor at Aunt Tweets church but realizes that Rachel is the one in need of help and comfort as caretaker. A good story of community and friendship. Looking forward to book 3. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Kristin- Kristin's Bookstack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this tender love story that starts when Rachel and Nicolas meet because Rachel's sister requested a Minister to pray with their Aunt Tweet who was dying of Dementia. I loved the heartwarming relationship Rachel had with her family, best friend, and Nicolas. The story was full of emotion and the ups and downs of going through life's trials. It was very uplifting and inspirational with the message that prayer helps endure the rough times in life. I also appreciated the way Nicolas cared for Rachel. It was a great example of how a man should treat the woman his loves. This is the perfect book for a reader that enjoys a great love story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Michele Broeg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have waited for this book and every time I’ve checked it was delayed in publication! So happy to finally read book 2 in the family series!
While I was sad with the early loss of the character from book 1 who brought the first sister and her husband together, the new characters were exactly what this said story needed to bring Rachel to her faith.
I love this authors ability to weave faith into the love stories as it really is a chord of three strands!
Eagerly awaiting book 3

[Mahoghani 23 · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very long-winded book that displays love, endurance, pain, family, bitterness & a multitude of other feelings and emotions. Rachel's trials & tribulations started with her aunt but did not end there. Her road to finding spiritual discipline was a true testimony that she traveled. Thank God for the family of friends, co-workers, family & spiritual warriors that surrounded her to help her through questionable times but to go every step of the way with her.