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Murphy Brothers Story #3
Everything Behind Us
Neither wants to relive the past, but they need each other to face the future.
Connor Murphy lives by a code of honor and service. Dignified, duty-bound, and responsible, he’s spent the past eight years as a single enlisted airman, determined never to mess up another person’s life the way he did Sadie’s. As long as he follows orders, does his job well, and avoids romantic entanglements, he’ll do just fine. Of course, that last part was easier before Sadie rolled back into town.
Sadie Allen never intended to return to Sugar Pine—her hometown hosts too much regret—but she can’t face her health crisis alone. Not with a four-year-old depending on her. Even so, Connor Murphy’s proposal of a marriage of convenience wasn’t exactly what she had in mind. She can’t fault his reasoning—her prognosis is grim and her son could use a father—but her heart aches at the thought of a marriage without romance. Especially to the one man she’s never gotten over.
The day-to-day challenges of Sadie’s illness are enough to strain the strongest relationships, let alone one hastily conceived in the shadow of past mistakes. Will the pressure be too much for their marriage to withstand, or will they allow God to forge something beautiful through their pain?
Everything Behind Us, Book 21 in The Potter's House Books Series (Two), is an uplifting and inspiring story of hope, redemption and second chances. It is also book three in Jennifer Rodewald's Murphy Brother Stories (book One is Always You). Grab your copy and be encouraged today.
Connor Murphy lives by a code of honor and service. Dignified, duty-bound, and responsible, he’s spent the past eight years as a single enlisted airman, determined never to mess up another person’s life the way he did Sadie’s. As long as he follows orders, does his job well, and avoids romantic entanglements, he’ll do just fine. Of course, that last part was easier before Sadie rolled back into town.
Sadie Allen never intended to return to Sugar Pine—her hometown hosts too much regret—but she can’t face her health crisis alone. Not with a four-year-old depending on her. Even so, Connor Murphy’s proposal of a marriage of convenience wasn’t exactly what she had in mind. She can’t fault his reasoning—her prognosis is grim and her son could use a father—but her heart aches at the thought of a marriage without romance. Especially to the one man she’s never gotten over.
The day-to-day challenges of Sadie’s illness are enough to strain the strongest relationships, let alone one hastily conceived in the shadow of past mistakes. Will the pressure be too much for their marriage to withstand, or will they allow God to forge something beautiful through their pain?
Everything Behind Us, Book 21 in The Potter's House Books Series (Two), is an uplifting and inspiring story of hope, redemption and second chances. It is also book three in Jennifer Rodewald's Murphy Brother Stories (book One is Always You). Grab your copy and be encouraged today.
186 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2021
About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
42 books431 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 9, 2021
I read Everything Behind Us with a gentle ache in my heart. That ache is how I know an author has done their job well. The characters are real, the narrative is smooth, and my heart is fully engaged. And this book is all sorts of moving.
Connor is one of the good guys. One of the very best, in fact. And his God-led conviction to be a father to Reid and a husband to Sadie is admirable. Sadie has so many regrets and her life is, frankly, a mess, but she still comes off as sympathetic and dignified. Her longing for true love and her desire to do the very best for her son are real and relatable.
While this isn't your typical marriage of convenience story, it made me realize why that may be my favorite romance trope - it allows us to look at the meaning and the beauty of married love from the inside yet with a newness that gets lost in decades of commitment.
There's a beautiful line in Everything Behind Us that remarks on the beauty of the physical intimacy of marriage - not the sexual kind, but the mundane, humbling kind that's a result of human frailty witnessed up close. (I'd quote it here, but it's much more poignant in context.)
There's a lot to savor in this book. Some romance, yes, but duty to God and family, commitment, sacrificial love, and the nature of married love.
Connor is one of the good guys. One of the very best, in fact. And his God-led conviction to be a father to Reid and a husband to Sadie is admirable. Sadie has so many regrets and her life is, frankly, a mess, but she still comes off as sympathetic and dignified. Her longing for true love and her desire to do the very best for her son are real and relatable.
While this isn't your typical marriage of convenience story, it made me realize why that may be my favorite romance trope - it allows us to look at the meaning and the beauty of married love from the inside yet with a newness that gets lost in decades of commitment.
There's a beautiful line in Everything Behind Us that remarks on the beauty of the physical intimacy of marriage - not the sexual kind, but the mundane, humbling kind that's a result of human frailty witnessed up close. (I'd quote it here, but it's much more poignant in context.)
There's a lot to savor in this book. Some romance, yes, but duty to God and family, commitment, sacrificial love, and the nature of married love.
January 1, 2021
Everything Behind Us features Connor. He is the most awesome hero ever. This book is a modern day marriage of convenience that is so heartwarming. I might have swooned and shed a tear or two. But don't worry this has a precious happily ever after. I enjoyed it very much and highly recommend it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
December 23, 2020
'Lord, help.'
Jennifer Rodewald writes good books. I am a forever fan. She somehow manages to pull such depth of emotion from the characters in her books that it astounds me.
Here, in her Murphy Brothers, book three, we find Connor's story. Along with Sadie, who has lived some pretty rough years. Now she is back in town, along with her four year old son and a devastating diagnosis.
Connor has prayed for Sadie for years and now feels a divine pull to marry her, even though neither loves the other. Watching this most honorable man, whose life is all about obedience to God, sacrifice what could be his entire life's happiness, to marry a woman and give his life to take care of her and her son, was one of the most wonderful things ever. Connor Murphy's heart is sacrificial and precious in the extreme to watch. And seeing how God rewards those who serve Him was incredibly moving. Well done! Highly recommended.
My thanks to the publisher and author for a digital copy of this book. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is entirely my own.
Jennifer Rodewald writes good books. I am a forever fan. She somehow manages to pull such depth of emotion from the characters in her books that it astounds me.
Here, in her Murphy Brothers, book three, we find Connor's story. Along with Sadie, who has lived some pretty rough years. Now she is back in town, along with her four year old son and a devastating diagnosis.
Connor has prayed for Sadie for years and now feels a divine pull to marry her, even though neither loves the other. Watching this most honorable man, whose life is all about obedience to God, sacrifice what could be his entire life's happiness, to marry a woman and give his life to take care of her and her son, was one of the most wonderful things ever. Connor Murphy's heart is sacrificial and precious in the extreme to watch. And seeing how God rewards those who serve Him was incredibly moving. Well done! Highly recommended.
My thanks to the publisher and author for a digital copy of this book. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is entirely my own.
January 13, 2021
This was such a powerful story! It is part of the Murphy Brothers series, of which I have LOVED each book. I definitely recommend reading the whole series because it is so good, however, you can also just jump in and read this emotionally rich tale and enjoy Connor and Sadie’s story.
The title, Everything Behind Us, illustrated to me the vast hurt that these characters experienced in their past. They had things that they both regretted and felt guilty about and they had to learn to leave that guilt in the past and realize that they have been forgiven.
From there, this beautiful modern marriage of convenience story explored what it means to make a commitment to love someone sacrificially. Connor knew that God wanted him to be a husband to Sadie and a father to Reid. I loved how devoted he was to them and how God grew his devotion into an all encompassing love.
The author did such a good job of showing all of the emotions that Sadie was battling. She dealt with sadness and fear over the cancer she was trying to beat, yet she kept her eyes focused on knowing that God loved her. She tried to notice all she had to be grateful for, yet her heart yearned to actually be loved by Connor and not to be just a responsibility. There were so many emotions running through these characters and they felt so very real to me.
I absolutely loved this novel and I have loved the other two books that come in the series before this one. I highly recommend the Murphy Brothers novels, which are part of The Potter’s House books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, however, I also purchased my own copy. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The title, Everything Behind Us, illustrated to me the vast hurt that these characters experienced in their past. They had things that they both regretted and felt guilty about and they had to learn to leave that guilt in the past and realize that they have been forgiven.
From there, this beautiful modern marriage of convenience story explored what it means to make a commitment to love someone sacrificially. Connor knew that God wanted him to be a husband to Sadie and a father to Reid. I loved how devoted he was to them and how God grew his devotion into an all encompassing love.
The author did such a good job of showing all of the emotions that Sadie was battling. She dealt with sadness and fear over the cancer she was trying to beat, yet she kept her eyes focused on knowing that God loved her. She tried to notice all she had to be grateful for, yet her heart yearned to actually be loved by Connor and not to be just a responsibility. There were so many emotions running through these characters and they felt so very real to me.
I absolutely loved this novel and I have loved the other two books that come in the series before this one. I highly recommend the Murphy Brothers novels, which are part of The Potter’s House books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, however, I also purchased my own copy. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 21, 2021
This is such a sweet series! I love the Murphy boys. Conner and Sadie's story was hard to put down.
February 28, 2021
As usual, another great Jennifer Rodewald read. It was nice to get to know Connor since he was in the previous novel. I loved Reid, he was so cute and he definitely was my favorite character.
January 10, 2023
Connor and Sadie’s story didn’t pull me in as much as the second in the series.
January 11, 2021
Everything Behind Us by Jennifer Rodewald is a powerful Christian contemporary novel that will fill your heart and soul with love. It is part of the Murphy Brothers series but can be read as a stand-alone.
At the heart of the novel is a family and their journey through cancer. It is heart wrenching. There are difficult choices to be made. Both the characters and the reader realise the end result is uncertain but God is always faithful and will walk us through the valleys of life.
The past still hangs heavy. There are regrets and “dark nights of self-loathing.” God does not want us to live under self-imposed burdens. He wants us to live free. “She’d discovered in that pit of despair the true amazement of grace.” God’s grace is a free gift for all. He meets us right where we are and He lifts us up. “God’s forgiveness had met his remorse.”
All the characters are realistic and well drawn. There is a wonderful warm atmosphere into which the reader is welcomed.
God is a Father to the fatherless. Within the novel there is a delightfully drawn young boy in need of a father. The lad’s mannerisms have been perfectly captured as we witness both his great capacity for love and his frustrated temper tantrums. Through it all he is loved unconditionally. This is a picture of us and our relationship with God who loves us through all our emotional responses to life.
I adored Everything Behind Us. It was a powerful testimony to love, care, faith and new beginnings. I love all Jennifer Rodewald’s novels.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
At the heart of the novel is a family and their journey through cancer. It is heart wrenching. There are difficult choices to be made. Both the characters and the reader realise the end result is uncertain but God is always faithful and will walk us through the valleys of life.
The past still hangs heavy. There are regrets and “dark nights of self-loathing.” God does not want us to live under self-imposed burdens. He wants us to live free. “She’d discovered in that pit of despair the true amazement of grace.” God’s grace is a free gift for all. He meets us right where we are and He lifts us up. “God’s forgiveness had met his remorse.”
All the characters are realistic and well drawn. There is a wonderful warm atmosphere into which the reader is welcomed.
God is a Father to the fatherless. Within the novel there is a delightfully drawn young boy in need of a father. The lad’s mannerisms have been perfectly captured as we witness both his great capacity for love and his frustrated temper tantrums. Through it all he is loved unconditionally. This is a picture of us and our relationship with God who loves us through all our emotional responses to life.
I adored Everything Behind Us. It was a powerful testimony to love, care, faith and new beginnings. I love all Jennifer Rodewald’s novels.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
January 11, 2021
Everything Behind Us is not an easy read, but oh, what a beautiful journey it takes you on. Connor and Sadie have regrets about the same event but are both trying to move forward.
Sadie carries a lot of regret from decisions she’s made since that event, but necessity has brought her home to Sugar Pine. As Connor and Sadie talk and spend time together, he feels a definitive call in his life.
Connor Murphy is a protector and dutiful. He’s the stable, sure-headed Murphy brother. Sadie’s life is falling apart around her, but she’s a sympathetic character you can’t help but root for. And as they enter into a marriage of convenience, the foundation forms for what might just be a beautiful life if each will let go of the hurts, fears, and uncertainties of their pasts.
Once again, Jennifer Rodewald wrung the emotions from me with her real and imperfect characters and her poignant plot.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Sadie carries a lot of regret from decisions she’s made since that event, but necessity has brought her home to Sugar Pine. As Connor and Sadie talk and spend time together, he feels a definitive call in his life.
Connor Murphy is a protector and dutiful. He’s the stable, sure-headed Murphy brother. Sadie’s life is falling apart around her, but she’s a sympathetic character you can’t help but root for. And as they enter into a marriage of convenience, the foundation forms for what might just be a beautiful life if each will let go of the hurts, fears, and uncertainties of their pasts.
Once again, Jennifer Rodewald wrung the emotions from me with her real and imperfect characters and her poignant plot.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
December 29, 2020
Jennifer Rodewald has done it again! I'm beginning to sound like a broken record when it comes to her books, but she never fails to deliver an incredibly authentic, poignant, and faith-filled read.
I absolutely loved Everything Behind Us. It's an emotional read, for sure. There's lots of tears, but it's also brimming full of hope, showcasing the wonder of God's steadfast love.
The characters were wonderful and likable. Connor was a great leading man. He's upstanding, honorable, and an all-around genuine good guy. I was really rooting for Sadie. She was dealing with a lot and handled everything with such strength and bravery. I really admired that about her. And Reid was such an adorable and serious little guy. So cute!
I highly recommend this novel of forgiveness, second chances, and coming home again. If you're a fan of contemporary romance, you can't beat this series. I can't wait for the next Murphy Brothers story!
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I absolutely loved Everything Behind Us. It's an emotional read, for sure. There's lots of tears, but it's also brimming full of hope, showcasing the wonder of God's steadfast love.
The characters were wonderful and likable. Connor was a great leading man. He's upstanding, honorable, and an all-around genuine good guy. I was really rooting for Sadie. She was dealing with a lot and handled everything with such strength and bravery. I really admired that about her. And Reid was such an adorable and serious little guy. So cute!
I highly recommend this novel of forgiveness, second chances, and coming home again. If you're a fan of contemporary romance, you can't beat this series. I can't wait for the next Murphy Brothers story!
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
January 7, 2021
Everything Behind Us made me cry at the injustice of teen love. I was mad at how Sadie was treated and wanted justice for her and Connor. I wish every teen could read this book and see how how their actions had long reaching consequences. Sadie left home and hadn’t returned for nine years, but circumstances beyond her control brought her back. Connor hadn’t stopped praying for Sadie and for forgiveness, but so far neither had made life easier for him. The decisions they had made as teens couldn’t be undone. Sadie felt the town would never forgive her and she knew in her heart Connor couldn’t. Connor felt restless and couldn’t figure out why. He keep asking God for direction, but so far no answer had come. When he sees Sadie, he realizes that maybe forgiveness can be reached. As Sadie and Connor both work through the decisions they made as teens, God gives them both new directions. This is my review of a copy I got from the author.
January 8, 2021
Connor and Sadie have a history. She made some poor choices, and never intended to return to her hometown. With her failing health, she doesn’t have a choice. She needs help caring for her son. She hoped she wouldn’t run into Connor. She didn’t need that complication.
Connor has prayed for Sadie for years, ever since she went away. When he sees her back in town, he feels compelled to help her. He feels God leading him to marry Sadie and to be a father to her son.
I loved this book. Connor is a good Christian man. I love how he prays to seek what God would have him do, and he follows through even though it’s hard. It reminded me of a different take on the story of Hosea. The character development is excellent, and the dialogue is believable. I didn’t want to put it down. This is a sweet/clean book, and I recommend it.
Connor has prayed for Sadie for years, ever since she went away. When he sees her back in town, he feels compelled to help her. He feels God leading him to marry Sadie and to be a father to her son.
I loved this book. Connor is a good Christian man. I love how he prays to seek what God would have him do, and he follows through even though it’s hard. It reminded me of a different take on the story of Hosea. The character development is excellent, and the dialogue is believable. I didn’t want to put it down. This is a sweet/clean book, and I recommend it.
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January 16, 2022Although I liked being back with the Murphys and getting to know Connor, the way Sadie refused to stop believing lies about him and mistreated him the whole time made it hard to enjoy the story. The resolution was too simple and quick at the end to not have happened earlier in their relationship. They both felt one dimensional and didn't really change throughout the book.
January 16, 2021
This is a beautifully written story with strong characters and a realistic story line. She brings out all the feels in this emotion filled story and pulled at my heartstrings reading. It's well written with perfectly painted scenes , moves fluidly and is a spiritual read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
January 8, 2021
What a beautifully written book. It is full of emotions and you can feel every one of them. Sadie and Connor's story is full of hope and inspiration. It shows that if you follow God's plan for your life everything will work out in God's time not ours. Grab a box of tissue before you start this book, you will need them.
December 19, 2020
Beautiful book!!!! This book was so compelling and so emotional. I think I cried through most of it. It was so well written. Connor was an angel. Great, exceptional book!!!!
December 23, 2020
Jennifer Rodewald never disappoints! She does an excellent job of keeping a series interesting and relatable. Everyone has regrets in their lives and she has a way of capitalizing on the good. She uses real life situations and demonstrates how good can come from bad experiences if we let God be in control. I would highly recommend any of her books and this one is no exception!
January 13, 2021
Everything Behind Us celebrates the normal and challenging sides of life (and marriage). With Rodewald’s typical depth, this story has emotional themes balanced with joy and purpose. I was happy to get another Murphy brother story! I am always delighted at their family’s dynamics and practical jokes, along with the balance of wisdom their parents offer in various situations.
I really appreciate the lesson Connor learns in this story, one that is gleaned from reading between the lines: that it’s ok to admit need and depend on God’s provision, yet it is admirable all the same to choose honor and provide for those in your care. Sadie, too, faces some unexplainable challenges and learns to embrace the joy provided each day.
Thank you to the author for the review copy. This is my honest review.
I really appreciate the lesson Connor learns in this story, one that is gleaned from reading between the lines: that it’s ok to admit need and depend on God’s provision, yet it is admirable all the same to choose honor and provide for those in your care. Sadie, too, faces some unexplainable challenges and learns to embrace the joy provided each day.
Thank you to the author for the review copy. This is my honest review.
January 12, 2021
Full of mercy and grace
Full of rich emotions and characters of depth, Everything Behind Us shows what can happen when we surrender fully to God's will and do what He directs us to do; what we know is right, even when it is the most difficult choice. When all of Connor's family discouraged him from marrying Sadie, it would have been so easy just to walk away. After all, there is wisdom in a multitude of counselors, right? But Connor was a man of prayer and conviction. He knew that God was directing him in this. And he refused to back down.
When the dictionary defines "noble", Connor's picture could illustrate it. Not in the sense of royalty, but in honor and commitment. I loved his faith and prayer life.
Sadie had lived a life of rebellion after the events that drove her from her hometown. She had done things she was ashamed of and had paid the price. And yet, she still experienced God's grace and mercy and now was trusting Him in her sickness. I probably wouldn't have cared for her much a few years earlier but now she was a changed woman. My heart ached for her in her illness and fear. I admired her for not blaming God for the cancer devastating her body.
This is such a lovely story of faith, hope, and love! There were some sweet and tender moments, some that made me giggle, and many that had me pondering the spiritual lessons Connor and Sadie learned.
If you enjoy Christian fiction that will make you think about spiritual things, you will love Everything Behind Us. This is a continuation of the Murphy Brothers series, and you will want to read the other stories first, even though this one stands on its own.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Full of rich emotions and characters of depth, Everything Behind Us shows what can happen when we surrender fully to God's will and do what He directs us to do; what we know is right, even when it is the most difficult choice. When all of Connor's family discouraged him from marrying Sadie, it would have been so easy just to walk away. After all, there is wisdom in a multitude of counselors, right? But Connor was a man of prayer and conviction. He knew that God was directing him in this. And he refused to back down.
When the dictionary defines "noble", Connor's picture could illustrate it. Not in the sense of royalty, but in honor and commitment. I loved his faith and prayer life.
Sadie had lived a life of rebellion after the events that drove her from her hometown. She had done things she was ashamed of and had paid the price. And yet, she still experienced God's grace and mercy and now was trusting Him in her sickness. I probably wouldn't have cared for her much a few years earlier but now she was a changed woman. My heart ached for her in her illness and fear. I admired her for not blaming God for the cancer devastating her body.
This is such a lovely story of faith, hope, and love! There were some sweet and tender moments, some that made me giggle, and many that had me pondering the spiritual lessons Connor and Sadie learned.
If you enjoy Christian fiction that will make you think about spiritual things, you will love Everything Behind Us. This is a continuation of the Murphy Brothers series, and you will want to read the other stories first, even though this one stands on its own.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
January 24, 2021
Sadie left Sugar Pine years ago and never looked back. The only reason she's back now is that she has been diagnosed with cancer and she will need her parents to look after her four-year-old son if the worst happens. She didn't bank on meeting the guy who's a big part of the reason she left... Connor is unable to see someone needing help without helping them, but proposing a marriage of convenience is far beyond anything he's ever imagined before. It seems so right though! When faced with the difficulties of a marriage of convenience, becoming an instant father, and trying to look after a sick - perhaps dying - wife, will he manage to keep going? And with such a start, can they ever become truly one?
Another heart-warming and inspiring Murphy story - I loved it! As always with this author, the characters felt real and I enjoyed getting to know them and watching them work through their struggles and come out the better for them on the other side. It was also nice to see a bit more of some of the Murphys met in the first two books, but this could be read on its own without problems, though the hints about the second book in particular might make you want to read it and see what you missed! A very satisfying story - highly recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Another heart-warming and inspiring Murphy story - I loved it! As always with this author, the characters felt real and I enjoyed getting to know them and watching them work through their struggles and come out the better for them on the other side. It was also nice to see a bit more of some of the Murphys met in the first two books, but this could be read on its own without problems, though the hints about the second book in particular might make you want to read it and see what you missed! A very satisfying story - highly recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
January 28, 2021
Honor and Love?
What a really great job, Jennifer Rodewald has done writing about the emotions and physical challenges faced by a young mother facd with aggressive cancer, filled with years of guilt and needing a plan for her four year old. Sadie is terrified when she goes home to her parents after nine years away. Connor has built a life in the Air Force since he graduated from high school with Sadie. What is God's plan for their life. Well written, and definitely not maudlin.
What a really great job, Jennifer Rodewald has done writing about the emotions and physical challenges faced by a young mother facd with aggressive cancer, filled with years of guilt and needing a plan for her four year old. Sadie is terrified when she goes home to her parents after nine years away. Connor has built a life in the Air Force since he graduated from high school with Sadie. What is God's plan for their life. Well written, and definitely not maudlin.
May 11, 2024
There are really no words for the beauty of this story. Jennifer Rodewald once again dives into the hard things of life and she does say with such grace and elegance. And yet she doesn’t sugarcoat. The rawness is exposed and to caused my heart to ache. But it also brought joy and encouragement.
As in her other books that I’ve read in this series, her characters are real. their lives are far from perfect and they do not walk out their faith perfectly. They struggle… They doubt… They deal with anger at God… They hurt… but they also surrender… And choose to believe the Lord and to hold his promises.
I guess this is a bit of a spoiler alert, but I want to note this in case it would be a trigger for someone… This book deals with a terminal illness and walking through the shadow of the valley death.
As in her other books that I’ve read in this series, her characters are real. their lives are far from perfect and they do not walk out their faith perfectly. They struggle… They doubt… They deal with anger at God… They hurt… but they also surrender… And choose to believe the Lord and to hold his promises.
I guess this is a bit of a spoiler alert, but I want to note this in case it would be a trigger for someone… This book deals with a terminal illness and walking through the shadow of the valley death.
January 12, 2021
This series is just amazing. It's incredible. And, each book is even better than the last, how that is possible blows my mind! This book is totally a page turner. When I'm away from the book, it is constantly on my mind. These strong characters, difficult situations - past and present, and so much more. There is just so much to be learned and reminded about commitment in our instant gratification and me first culture, blown with the winds. Simply wonderful. I cannot wait for more!
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.
January 13, 2021
Beautifully written and well thought out, I enjoyed Sadie and Connors story so much. And Reid was such a sweetheart. Full of emotional moments, I needed the tissues. A story of hope and everlasting love that God does love all His children. Outstanding characters that you grow to feel so much for. I enjoy Ms Rodewald’s work. She never disappoints.
I received a copy of this book and this review is my own.
I received a copy of this book and this review is my own.
December 18, 2020
Grab a box of tissues before even starting this one.
Great story.
Really well done characters.
There's so much to learn about marriage, honor, commitment, guilt, forgiveness, and communication in this story. They all play an important role, either by inclusion or exclusion, in the situations these families face. Communication really sets up the HEA, though.
Great story.
Really well done characters.
There's so much to learn about marriage, honor, commitment, guilt, forgiveness, and communication in this story. They all play an important role, either by inclusion or exclusion, in the situations these families face. Communication really sets up the HEA, though.
January 16, 2021
God does reign - grace comes in midst of the dtorm
Jen Rodewald's books in this series are amazing, hard to put down, full of encouragement! Her characters are captivating, her plots are riveting. An excellent author going to top of my list alongside Francine Rivers who has held that place of honor for many years. So special to have fresh inspirational writing to look forward to!
Jen Rodewald's books in this series are amazing, hard to put down, full of encouragement! Her characters are captivating, her plots are riveting. An excellent author going to top of my list alongside Francine Rivers who has held that place of honor for many years. So special to have fresh inspirational writing to look forward to!
January 17, 2021
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Jennifer Rodewald; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2020
Jennifer Rodewald is one of my favorite authors. I can always depend on her to write about real people who struggle with life and doing what is right. Connor is a man who realized that doing the wrong thing leads to pain for all involved and based on that decides to live a life that is honorable and serving others in the military. But a chance meeting with Sadie from his past, pushes him to face the past, those he hurt and realize that being honorable is not always easy. Loved the characters of Connor and Sadie and how the past pushed them to make completely different choices in life. But both have to learn how to forgive themselves and let go. Another great story in the series about the Murphy Brothers.
January 20, 2021
I enjoyed reading this story about Connor and Sadie. They new each other in high school and Sadie really liked him and things happen. But she found out she had cancer her and her son went to her parents. Connor and her got together again. God was in controlled. I recommend this book.
December 19, 2020
It seems unlikely that characters in a story could move one to heartbreak but that is exactly what is accomplished in Everything Behind Us. The folly of teen decisions and ensuing consequences, regret that continues even years later, a terminal diagnosis, and the unfulfilled longing to be loved. It’s all there and spawns similar feelings of regret, fear, and sorrow especially for a young lady who is sure she is unworthy of being loved. This author leads me to dig deep, to think and to consider a different view. I highly recommend this book. I received an advance reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
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