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From the Ruins
Something beautiful from something broken.
Who am I? What am I supposed to be doing now? What is God’s plan for my life?
Since becoming a widow, these questions have plagued Sandra Tolbrook to the point where she feels completely lost without her soul mate. After an ankle injury forces her to sell the family home, her three children convince her to move into Summerset Resort, a retirement village for over-50’s. With a tennis court, swimming pool and cinema, the resort had sounded so perfect when she signed on the dotted line. But now, she’s not so sure ...
Damien Kensington is Summerset Resort’s most eligible bachelor, according to some of the other retirees nearby. It doesn’t sit well with him, given the past he’s not proud of, the past he tries to keep hidden - but good-naturedly, he takes the title in his stride. It’s not until he meets the new widow two streets away that he realises something has been missing from his life.
When Sandra’s children suggest she step out of her comfort zone and start living again, a road trip to North Queensland seems to be the perfect solution. But surely she can’t do that … at her age! Or with Summerset Resort’s most eligible bachelor! What would people say?! A pastor’s widow travelling with another man – imagine the scandal!
But the road trip may be just what Sandra and Damien need. Along with exploring beautiful parts of Australia, they discover a wonderful friendship, a deeper faith, and an abandoned house which might just be the answer to Sandra’s prayers.
Enjoy this mature-age Christian romance set on the east coast of Australia. From the Ruins is book 1 in The Winds of Change series.
Who am I? What am I supposed to be doing now? What is God’s plan for my life?
Since becoming a widow, these questions have plagued Sandra Tolbrook to the point where she feels completely lost without her soul mate. After an ankle injury forces her to sell the family home, her three children convince her to move into Summerset Resort, a retirement village for over-50’s. With a tennis court, swimming pool and cinema, the resort had sounded so perfect when she signed on the dotted line. But now, she’s not so sure ...
Damien Kensington is Summerset Resort’s most eligible bachelor, according to some of the other retirees nearby. It doesn’t sit well with him, given the past he’s not proud of, the past he tries to keep hidden - but good-naturedly, he takes the title in his stride. It’s not until he meets the new widow two streets away that he realises something has been missing from his life.
When Sandra’s children suggest she step out of her comfort zone and start living again, a road trip to North Queensland seems to be the perfect solution. But surely she can’t do that … at her age! Or with Summerset Resort’s most eligible bachelor! What would people say?! A pastor’s widow travelling with another man – imagine the scandal!
But the road trip may be just what Sandra and Damien need. Along with exploring beautiful parts of Australia, they discover a wonderful friendship, a deeper faith, and an abandoned house which might just be the answer to Sandra’s prayers.
Enjoy this mature-age Christian romance set on the east coast of Australia. From the Ruins is book 1 in The Winds of Change series.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
About the author
Kristen M. Fraser
46 books76 followersKristen M. Fraser is a Christian fiction author, residing in beautiful Queensland, Australia with her husband and four children. She drinks way too much coffee, has a far too messy house, and probably doesn't get enough sleep. When she's not being the family Uber driver, or making a gazillion school lunches, Kristen loves running, climbing mountains, spending time at the beach, and given a moment of solitude (ha!), curling up with a good book.
Although her books are works of fiction, Kristen believes everyone has a story to tell. As such, she takes inspiration for her writing from people's everyday lives - their struggles and successes. It is her prayer that you will be encouraged and inspired by her words.
Keep in touch with Kristen by signing up to her newsletter - and you'll receive a free book as a thank you!
http://www.kristenmfraser.com/newslet...
Kristen loves hearing from her readers, and will always endeavour to reply. You can connect with Kristen here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmfraserauthor
Email: kristenmfraser@outlook.com
Although her books are works of fiction, Kristen believes everyone has a story to tell. As such, she takes inspiration for her writing from people's everyday lives - their struggles and successes. It is her prayer that you will be encouraged and inspired by her words.
Keep in touch with Kristen by signing up to her newsletter - and you'll receive a free book as a thank you!
http://www.kristenmfraser.com/newslet...
Kristen loves hearing from her readers, and will always endeavour to reply. You can connect with Kristen here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmfraserauthor
Email: kristenmfraser@outlook.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 10, 2020
Losing a spouse can leave the partner in the ruins of grief and loneliness wondering if they will ever feel alive again. That is where this story picks up with Sandra grieving the loss of her husband Greg. She can’t even imagine what to do with the rest of her life now. Can God still have a plan for her? And if so, is she ready to embrace it. How exactly does one move on? And can her heart ever heal?
I love this story about stepping out in faith and trusting Gods guidance in our lives even after hard circumstances, mistakes or devastation. Not only do we meet Sandra after the loss of a spouse. But we also meet Damien who made mistakes in his life and has paid the price and is trying to follow Gods lead for his life. I also love the focus on older adults, it’s a nice change. Who says older adults can’t have fun or be romantic. In fact I chuckled at some of the old age comments in the story. I cried with the grief and loneliness and I felt inspired with friendships developed and small steps of faith taken.
This book reminded me of a friend of mine who lost her husband too early in life and didn’t know if she could feel again. One of her favorite songs is tell your heart to beat again. But just like Sandra she tried to follow Gods plan. And when she did feel again and was drawn to another man years later, she felt conflicted. She finally realized she didn’t have to forget him to move on. But figuring out how to move on was a slow process.
I love this story about stepping out in faith and trusting Gods guidance in our lives even after hard circumstances, mistakes or devastation. Not only do we meet Sandra after the loss of a spouse. But we also meet Damien who made mistakes in his life and has paid the price and is trying to follow Gods lead for his life. I also love the focus on older adults, it’s a nice change. Who says older adults can’t have fun or be romantic. In fact I chuckled at some of the old age comments in the story. I cried with the grief and loneliness and I felt inspired with friendships developed and small steps of faith taken.
This book reminded me of a friend of mine who lost her husband too early in life and didn’t know if she could feel again. One of her favorite songs is tell your heart to beat again. But just like Sandra she tried to follow Gods plan. And when she did feel again and was drawn to another man years later, she felt conflicted. She finally realized she didn’t have to forget him to move on. But figuring out how to move on was a slow process.
September 17, 2020
I really got involved with this story. It was sad in places, but had a super good outcome. I hope this is a series, because the son needs to grow up and man up. (Sorry - had to vent!) I know most people don't believe in instant attraction, but I do. I hope you enjoy this lovely story as much as I did!
November 26, 2024
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 stars. I found this an enjoyable, comfortable, easy read of self-discovery which encourages contemplation.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM rate 5 Stars).
FROM THE RUINS has been sitting in my TBRs for quite awhile. It is a comfortable story featuring 2 Seasoned characters, a widow of 3yrs+ and an “older,” single guy - think “Grey Fox”).
I don’t enjoy novels with unnecessary angst and misunderstandings. FROM THE RUINS spares us that. Instead, it takes us on the journey of self-discovery with the MC widow, in her 60’s, working to discern who she is and what she wants in the years left for her as an individual following the death of her husband.
FROM THE RUINS is mostly from the FMCs perspective and about her choices. I found myself identifying with the character as she stepped into her new future of possibilities. I considered myself and what steps I might take, given her situation. In that respect, I found FROM THE RUINS a contemplative novel. We don’t get much about the MMC. I would have liked to have known more about him and his depth of character. Nevertheless, I found FROM THE RUINS a relatable story featuring 2 Seasoned characters on a journey (including an actual road trip) in a setting of hope, future possibilities and even love. This is a Clean Romance with an Inspirational base (with no sexual intimacy scenes, strong language or violence). Kristen M Fraser is a new-to-me author. I would read another book by her. FROM THE RUINS left me curious about the adult son of the FMC. This was bk1 in a series. I might check to see if any books that follow feature him.
I recommend FROM THE RUINS to readers looking for:
> Seasoned Romance.
> Seasoned Clean Romance.
> Inspirational fiction.
> novels featuring self-discovery.
> gentle, easy reads with an upbeat tone.
> Road-trip novels.
> Angst-free Romance (with no misunderstandings and miscommunication plot devices).
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM rate 5 Stars).
FROM THE RUINS has been sitting in my TBRs for quite awhile. It is a comfortable story featuring 2 Seasoned characters, a widow of 3yrs+ and an “older,” single guy - think “Grey Fox”).
I don’t enjoy novels with unnecessary angst and misunderstandings. FROM THE RUINS spares us that. Instead, it takes us on the journey of self-discovery with the MC widow, in her 60’s, working to discern who she is and what she wants in the years left for her as an individual following the death of her husband.
FROM THE RUINS is mostly from the FMCs perspective and about her choices. I found myself identifying with the character as she stepped into her new future of possibilities. I considered myself and what steps I might take, given her situation. In that respect, I found FROM THE RUINS a contemplative novel. We don’t get much about the MMC. I would have liked to have known more about him and his depth of character. Nevertheless, I found FROM THE RUINS a relatable story featuring 2 Seasoned characters on a journey (including an actual road trip) in a setting of hope, future possibilities and even love. This is a Clean Romance with an Inspirational base (with no sexual intimacy scenes, strong language or violence). Kristen M Fraser is a new-to-me author. I would read another book by her. FROM THE RUINS left me curious about the adult son of the FMC. This was bk1 in a series. I might check to see if any books that follow feature him.
I recommend FROM THE RUINS to readers looking for:
> Seasoned Romance.
> Seasoned Clean Romance.
> Inspirational fiction.
> novels featuring self-discovery.
> gentle, easy reads with an upbeat tone.
> Road-trip novels.
> Angst-free Romance (with no misunderstandings and miscommunication plot devices).
September 9, 2020
Kristen Fraser’s book From The Ruins:
After leaving her home Sandra never thought she would be happy. The people at Summerset Resort are amazing people. When Sandra finally decided to go out with her new friends her life will change. Damien is a wonderful person. When he meets Sandra he can’t believe how drawn he is to her. Watching these two become friends will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what next on their journey. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could. You won’t be able to stop reading this book.
After leaving her home Sandra never thought she would be happy. The people at Summerset Resort are amazing people. When Sandra finally decided to go out with her new friends her life will change. Damien is a wonderful person. When he meets Sandra he can’t believe how drawn he is to her. Watching these two become friends will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what next on their journey. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could. You won’t be able to stop reading this book.
September 29, 2020
Kristen Fraser has written yet another wonderful story, this time about a mature couple. Loss of a loved one and moving to a new place are all emotional experiences to go through and these are dealt with so well in this book. It is easy to get drawn into the lives of the characters and you won't want to put it down till you get to the end. There were some surprising twists to the story too. It's definitely a book worth reading and if there is a sequel I will definitely read it!
I received an advanced copy of the book and my review is entirely my own thoughts.
I received an advanced copy of the book and my review is entirely my own thoughts.
August 29, 2021
I "sorta" read this book fourth, not realizing it was tucked in my library. I thoroughly enjoyed the 3 books about the children, but this story of Damien and Sandra just adds a touch of grace and compassion to the set along with a chuckle or two. A beautiful written story that fits so well into the current situation our world is struggling through. The loss of loved ones is such a vital reality and the author has handled it with God's eternal love, grace and peace. Great characters and touching storyline.
I am an ARC reader for this author, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
I am an ARC reader for this author, but this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 16, 2020
Mature romances have never been my thing, but I found myself reading quite a few of them this year. I really enjoyed the slow burn romance. They were good elements of family, and faith, and living life. There’s a lot to be gleaned from within these pages and I think it’s a wonderful start to a new series. I look forward to what comes next, and I hope to see more of this sweet couple.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 13, 2020
Sandra and Damien’s story hit home for me! I especially felt a kindred spirit with Sandra being a widow myself. The ups and downs of their relationship were so real to me. I love how their story came together!! Sandra’s relationship with her children is important to this story as well! A very contemporary book and one I highly recommend. I was given an advance copy of this book to review and give my honest opinion.
January 16, 2021
A clean Christian romance with a wonderful HEA. I highly recommend it.
This clean romance between two older adults held my interest from beginning to end. It would be hard for me to pick a favorite character, because they each added to the story - even busy-body Margaret. In addition to enjoying this story I realized it's possible to have a fulfilled life after losing a spouse. God has abundant plans for our lives if we open our hearts and minds to follow where He leads.
This clean romance between two older adults held my interest from beginning to end. It would be hard for me to pick a favorite character, because they each added to the story - even busy-body Margaret. In addition to enjoying this story I realized it's possible to have a fulfilled life after losing a spouse. God has abundant plans for our lives if we open our hearts and minds to follow where He leads.
September 20, 2020
In this story Sandra is mourning the lost of her husband Greg. She ends up moving to a smaller place and away from her church and friends. She starts to meet new people and she meets Damien. Things starts to change for her. She starts to venture out and ends up going on a trip. I recommend this book I really enjoyed it
September 23, 2020
Second chance at Love
Kristen Fraser writes an excellent and compelling story. Having lived in British Commonwealth countries most of my twenties and thirties, a!most 5 years of that time in N. Z. I find myself thoroughly enjoying the Australian culture.. The entrancing stories Kristen writes are edifying, enjoyable and an absolute delight!
Kristen Fraser writes an excellent and compelling story. Having lived in British Commonwealth countries most of my twenties and thirties, a!most 5 years of that time in N. Z. I find myself thoroughly enjoying the Australian culture.. The entrancing stories Kristen writes are edifying, enjoyable and an absolute delight!
October 3, 2020
Loved the storyline
Really compelling story, the children's different personalities help to give different perspectives. I especially liked the road trip descriptions of coast and countryside which reminded me of my recent trip to Cornwall. Which is similar in that you have farmland butted up against beautiful coastal views.
Really compelling story, the children's different personalities help to give different perspectives. I especially liked the road trip descriptions of coast and countryside which reminded me of my recent trip to Cornwall. Which is similar in that you have farmland butted up against beautiful coastal views.
January 3, 2026
well written
It’s about time someone can write stories for us older generation. So many books today seem to be on “young love” and there are many of my generation that need to see what life could be IF we were free from the fears and what ifs. Attention all writers! Realize that there is lots of adventure in us even if we are over 60. Keep these stories coming
It’s about time someone can write stories for us older generation. So many books today seem to be on “young love” and there are many of my generation that need to see what life could be IF we were free from the fears and what ifs. Attention all writers! Realize that there is lots of adventure in us even if we are over 60. Keep these stories coming
April 4, 2021
Fantastic Book!
This is a very enjoyable story about an older couple. Life is not easy when you loose your spouse. Sandra and Damien has a chance at a life together. Can she put her grief behind her and go on with her life. Read this book to see how things work out.
This is a very enjoyable story about an older couple. Life is not easy when you loose your spouse. Sandra and Damien has a chance at a life together. Can she put her grief behind her and go on with her life. Read this book to see how things work out.
April 28, 2024
This is a well written book with true to life experiences that occur . Christian values are maintained which I believe in. The story held my interest and look forward to reading the next books in this series.
June 12, 2024
Hope
It's good to read about love, romance, hope, and new beginnings in later life. So many times the senior years represent loneliness, heartache and having to just get used to it. Hope, joy and the other fruits of the spirit aren't meant only for the young.
It's good to read about love, romance, hope, and new beginnings in later life. So many times the senior years represent loneliness, heartache and having to just get used to it. Hope, joy and the other fruits of the spirit aren't meant only for the young.
September 21, 2020
Wonderful book that was very moving. Really glad I was able to read this one.
I did receive an advanced copy of the book and the review is mine voluntarily.
I did receive an advanced copy of the book and the review is mine voluntarily.
September 19, 2021
I read and reviewed this book on August 29, 2021
My review is listed as: VICKI JOHNSON
My review is listed as: VICKI JOHNSON
May 1, 2025
Never too old!
A mature couple romance, dealing with grief, forgiveness, waiting for God's guidance and embarking on a new start. A good foundation for the rest of the series.
A mature couple romance, dealing with grief, forgiveness, waiting for God's guidance and embarking on a new start. A good foundation for the rest of the series.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews