Iris

Ladies of Garfield #9

by Sharon Srock

What’s a girl to do?Iris Evans is all grown up and back in Garfield with a fresh license in Veterinary Medicine. A Christian since the age of twelve, Iris has always been the smart, compassionate, and outspoken darling of her family, working diligently to seek out and follow God’s plan for her life. She never expected that plan to include a friendship with the man who kidnapped her niece ten years ago, a friendship she’s kept secret for five years. A friendship sure to tear her away from the sister she adores.He had a planDavid Morris had his life mapped out. Join the Marines, go to college, and come back to Garfield to serve on the police force with his uncle. Maybe marriage and kids down the road. Good plans until a friend accused of a heinous crime causes an accident that left David blind and bitter and clueless about what happens next. Now David wants nothing to do with the God he served so faithfully. It seems as if his dreams abandoned him along with his sight.Surrender isn’t an optionWhen David’s faithless bitterness runs headlong into Iris’s no nonsense Christianity, something has to give. How can love triumph when hearts are so far apart?*Wounded hero*Return to hometown*All grown up*Coming of age*Emotional journey Click "get a free sample" and start reading now! Books in the Women of Valley View seriesCallie, book 1Terri, book 2Pam, book 3Samantha, book 4Kate, book 5Karla, book 6Hannah’s Angel, book 7A Makeover Made in Heaven, book 8Iris, book 9

190 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 20, 2020

About the author

Small-town Oklahoma and the friendships they produce are embedded in Sharon Srock’s heart. After spending her first fifteen years on the move, living in fourteen homes and attending thirteen schools, she landed in a tiny central Oklahoma community and made it her own. As someone who’s been blessed to be a part of the same hometown church for more than five decades, Sharon writes stories of hope built from her own unique perspective—stories that demonstrate a sisterhood formed not by blood but by heart, where ordinary women are able to do extraordinary things thanks to the friends who surround them and the faith that pulls them through. Sharon still lives in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma, with her husband and three very large dogs. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, cook, and travel. One of these days, she’s going to figure out how to do all three at the same time.

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Reviews

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. Finally, a Christian woman who tells a man she won’t date him or be more than friends because he’s not walking with the Lord or he’s not saved. (It was a little hard to know which.) And she was willing to do what she knew was right even if it meant some people were mad at her. No, Iris wasn’t perfect. Yes, she had to learn some things, but it was refreshing to read of a woman doing the right thing even if she could easily fall in love with someone.
There were a few kisses, but nothing descriptive.
This is a Christian book.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ladies of Garfield series has been one that I have enjoyed immensely. These ladies all come together in order to support and pray for one another. The friendships portrayed in this series are built on trust and love. Sharon Srock took the opportunity to show us how friendships are grown and how they survive through love, forgiveness, and understanding.
Iris was a young girl when she and her sister were embraced by this circle. Now as a young woman she feels the calling from God and tries to live her life in accordance with His plan. Will His plan break the bounds of trust and love she has with these women? Or will His plan lead to forgiveness? David Morris believes his life is planned. He wants to become a Marine, then college, then the police force back in Garfield. However, our plans don't always match God's plans. When a once trusted friend causes a horrendous accident, David is left to pick up the pieces. Will he be able to get over his bitterness and find his new path? Will he allow God back into his life? I absolutely love this series and traveling the roads with these characters. Going back to Garfield and this circle of friends is like going home. I received an advanced copy from the author. A review was not required.

[Chris Unwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris we first met many books ago. However the author, Sharon Srock, does an excellent job filling in any back story if you are not familiar with the character or any of the characters stories.
Iris has come back home after becoming a vet. While away at school she has been involved working with prisoners in the prison ministry system. There she finds someone she had been looking for, Click Malone.
Excited to start her first day at her new job as a vet she meets David. First impression...she hopes she doesn’t have to see him anytime again soon. As Iris becomes more involved in each of their lives will she be able to help them find what they are looking for?
I really enjoyed the book and was sad to see it end. Quick easy read. Clean Christian Read

A complete first for me and I’m not giving anything away but I cried on the very first page of the book. 😂

*I was given a free kindle copy of the book. A review was not required.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris is a amazing young woman. When Iris returns home she is excited about all the things happening in her life. David is struggling after his accident and he is trying to shut everybody out. Iris can’t believe the attitude that David had and she gave it right back to him. Watching these two finally become friends will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. You will feel God working throughout this wonderful story. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I couldn’t stop reading this truly inspirational story. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could.

[Barbara Keigher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I especially enjoyed reading about how Iris continued to do what God put on her heart, even though,
all her family, friends, etc. tried to persuade her it was too dangerous. If it had been just her wanting to be a 'do gooder', virtue signal, try to earn extra points with the Lord, by doing something risky, then no, it would have indeed been foolish. But that was not the case, and she had to endure many hardships following the Lord's leading.
It reminded me that some missionaries, died doing God's will.

I also liked her willingness to be kind but firm ( some tough love), with wit to boot!

I was happy that scripture verses were provided, and acted on.

I am beginning to almost becoming depressed when other readers comments are in lock step often, saying a novel is not preachy:
What part of this scripture, God's word, do they rebuke?
"preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction". 2 Timothy 4:2
When did preaching, and/or preachy become offensive...and deemed necessary to be canceled?

Sorry, but I am beginning to see so so many 'Christian' Novels being praised, because they are NOT preachy...it makes me sad.

So what if an author has a pastor's sermon and some preaching..how did this become a bad thing?

I really enjoyed this novel.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book about Iris! She is a strong independent 25 year old who has just finished her veterinarian degree. She gets hired on to work at the clinic back home and is really excited about it. Her first day is a nightmare though. She Stated the day off needing to euthanize a dog who was severely who was severely injured by a vehicle, and no owner in sight so she had to make the hard decision. The day got better but it was stressful.
She lives in an apartment below her parents home and is excited to spend time with them, but she also is happy to have her own space.
Her next day at work she meets an egotistical blind man who needed to have his dogs nails trimmed. David, is a veteran who was injured and as a result of the injury now is blind. Although David acts like this Iris puts him in his place days later when she tells him he needs to take his dog for walks instead of pouting at his home. Can these to ever get along?
There is so much more in this book, but I don’t want to give up the story! I received this ARC for my honest review!

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris, Book 9 in the Ladies of Garfield series, is wonderful. I love the way the author wrote the characters. First of all, I remember being introduced to Iris in book 1, Callie, and fell in love with her all the way back then. To see her grown up and living the life God purposed for her was in itself wonderful; add to that the multi-layers of introducing David and his story made Iris much richer and fulfilling of a book. I love how all of this series is interlaced with each other. I love the depth of the characters faith, lived out, not “preached” and I love how each book makes me want more, yet fulfills me also, a delicate balance not every author can achieve. If you haven’t read this series, beginning with Callie, the only advantage you have is that you don’t have to wait to read the next one. There are 15 books waiting to be read one after the other. Don’t wait another day – go and pick up Callie today. The bonus? Callie is free on Amazon so you have nothing to lose, and many new friends to gain. You won’t want to stop with Callie. It will be the beginning of a great friendship.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris is the ninth installment from Sharon Srock's wonderful Ladies of Garfield series. I loved Iris from the start. David was kinda hard to get to know at first - understandably so. it was great watching how the two were able to overcome their differences and become friends.

I had the pleasure of listening to the audio version of Iris. The narrator, Ellen Quay, did a great job performing this tale. It was wonderful hearing their adaptation and how they were able to bring this story to life. I was captivated with this version throughout and was able to hear the whole book in one day.

I give Iris a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love books that are relatable with real life issues.

I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review . This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris

I loved that Iris was a veterinarian. Iris had a hard childhood but really overcame it. Iris is a admirable character. She helps out a former kidnapper and falls for a blind guy.

David is having a hard time dealing with his blindness. He meets Iris when taking his dog to her. I love how she treats him like a regular guy.

This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend reading the other books though.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write an positive review.

[Joan Arning · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blind ex-Marine named David, a veterinarian named Iris and an ex-con, Chick, make up the story of how God can make all things new! I admired how Iris followed God's nudging and became involved in prison ministry even though Chick had earlier kidnapped her niece. I enjoyed learning about guide dogs. Sharon Srock's books are always touching stories. I recommend Iris to others who enjoy contemporary fiction. I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Deanna Mosier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent Valley View book!

This author makes you feel like one of the family as we peek into their private lives. Iris comes back to town as a veterinarian and meets a blind Marine named David on her first day on the job. She is also involved in prison ministry. There’s a lot of emotion, faith, second chances, romance and so much more involved as the story progresses. Very good book!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness brings freedom

I had been waiting impatiently for Iris’s story. It did not disappoint! Through it, we are reminded of a very powerful lesson. No matter what awful things a person has done, God can forgive them. We should do the same, and watch and see the amazing things the Lord will do through them. Very well done, as always!

[Gen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. All about forgiveness. And actual taking action in that forgiveness. Iris was very brave reaching out to the guy who kidnapped her niece years ago. He became a Christian thru that kidnapping. But it’s also a love story and how to overcome major hurdles like blindness in a relationship. Very well written and excellent character development.

[D'anah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking

What a tough call; when God impresses something on your heart that causes division and strife among your significant others. It is never easy walking God's way. More so when others are against it. This story has that, plus developing deep feelings and more difficulties thrown in the mix. It is a great read with depth.

[Kathryn Spurgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

I love this book series—even though I didn’t read them in order. They start out innocent like and end up addressing big life questions through real life crisis. Each book brings faith to the forefront as trouble comes. I love the way prayer and belief in God are a part of the characters’ everyday life.

[Linda Rainey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Inspirational Book

I loved this book about second chances with God's love and forgiveness.
The storyline and characters were inspirational.
This book is recommended for those who love Christian romance.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the audio version of this story very much. Forgiveness is important in our lives. Not doing it only eats up the soul. I liked the Christian emphasis which is not preachy but real. I received a free copy of the audiobook. This is my voluntary review.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon had me guessing about the ending right up until the end with a plot twist right at the end. This is one of my favorites! Great character development with a great main character! You won't be disappointed!!

[Rhonda Sledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the ninth book in this series by Sharon Srock and I have loved every one of them! Iris was such a sweetheart in the earlier books and it was a delight to read her story as a grownup. I love how the core group of women in this series has grown and evolved from more than friends to family.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book with faith, warmth, and real life characters, you have to read Sharon Srock! I love this series and feel like I'm coming home when I read about Valley View's women! Being blind, I especially loved the blind character in this story. Can't wait to read the next book!

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cute story about a female vet with a blind hero was unique and gave merit to the romantic storyline.

[Gwen Hight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris

Iris does something God told her to do and it causes her sister to be angry but god had a plan and the thing's became possible

[Teresa Nasson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book. It was so hard to put it down I ended up staying up till early hours of the morning to finish it. It was so exciting to read the story of Iris, the main character in this book, who was first introduced in book one of the Women of Valley View series as a hard working, school loving, little girl. Along with her teenage sister, Sam, they have had to deal with the death of their mother and losing their father to addiction. Iris is forced to grow up early in life, not only to help Sam raise her baby, but learning to fend for themselves while trying to avoid the welfare system which, they fear, will result in them being forcibly separated.

In this book, Iris is all grown up. She has grown into a strong, young woman of unquestionable faith. But, she has a secret that could damage the close bond she has with her sister, Sam. After studying for her veterinarian license, she returns to Garfield to work in the local veterinary clinic. Here she meets an ex-marine from her childhood, David, who has lost his sight and all faith in God. Can she help build up his faith and reliance on God. Oh, and that little scene in the restaurant which introduces a possible new generation of prayer ladies is amazing!

This book shows us that we can overcome any difficulties that we are faced with. We are not only limited by what we can do, but with strength and faith we can succeed through all our misgivings too.

I am blown away by Sharon's consistent ability to create such empowering stories. She does not disappoint. Her books get more and more interesting with each new release. I am looking forward to reading the next in the series and I have no doubt it will be just as awesome. Thank you Sharon. I admit I can be quite stingy on my 5 star ratings, but Iris deserves it all!

I received an advance reader copy of this ebook from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read and enjoyed a number of books by Sharon Srock, I was eagerly looking forward to reading Iris. I was not disappointed in the least. It was enjoyable to meet new characters and to see many characters from past books. To find out what was going on in their lives and, of course, to be re-introduced to Iris, all grown up and ready to make a new life back in her home town as a veterinarian. Srock's characters are strong, likable, and believable, people you would like to have as your own friends or family. And yet they are not portrayed as perfect but are shown with their foibles and faults as well as their strengths. Not afraid to tackle gritty subjects, in this book the author tactfully writes of the struggles of a man blinded in a tragic incident and of a convicted felon returning to society and the reactions he meets. Both of these characters emotions and actions were protrayed well. I liked that Srock wrote about prison ministry and the value it is to those in prison--the lives that are changed through it. The story moves quickly as the author adds a twist or two to the plot and weaves in strong Christian values to bring readers a heartwarming and inspirational read.
I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[Sharon Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how amazing it was to go back to Garfield, OK to see what my friends of Valley View has been up to. I enjoy this series so much and Iris’s story did not disappoint. Actually, my favorite story of the set, Iris has given me a lot to think about on a real life issue that I am going through. Gods love surrounds us all, no matter where we’ve been or what we’ve been through. Iris details that as she walks with God each day and is His hands and feet of helping minister to those in prison. One guy in particular who not only kidnapped a family member of hers years past but captivated Iris’s heart in healing from the ordeal. Torn between what God is calling her to do and family that doesn’t understand, Iris has a life altering decision to make. Ms. Srock has penned a story that will keep you turning the pages and shedding quite a few tears. Iris is as independent as they come and her kind heart mixed with classy banter, I’m happy to call her friend.
I was given a version of this book in exchange for my own honest opinion.

[Karen Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really good. As with all the stories in this each one is dealing with real life situations. Sharon does a very good thing when she brings our Lord into her stories. Iris was a very good book to read.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris by Sharon Srock
The Ladies of Garfield Series Book Nine
Dr. Iris Evans has returned to Garfield, Oklahoma, after eight years of school to become a veterinarian. God had blessed her in so many ways, and she was giving back. God had put prison ministry on her heart, especially Chick Malone. A man with a connection to her family. A redeemed man. She just had to find a way to tell her family about him.

David Morris came back home from the Marines, a bitter man. A man who'd lost his faith. How could a God who loved him have allowed to let this happen to him? So, he spent his days in his dark room. Not living. Until a stubborn veterinarian came knocking.

Great story. Tough issues. Might want to keep tissues handy if you cry easily. I love these stories.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris is the ninth installment from Sharon Srock's wonderful Ladies of Garfield series. I loved Iris from the start. David was kinda hard to get to know at first - understandably so. it was great watching how the two were able to overcome their differences and become friends.
I give Iris a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love books that are relatable with real life issues.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review . This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Bruce Dinsman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris grew up

I’m getting a bit confused with the series and numbers but I was sure looking forward to this continuation of the ladies’ bible study group being there for each other. What is next?

[Laura Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, as usual.