What do you think?
Rate this book
The Spencer Family #2
When Forever Fades
One almost indiscretion didn’t count, right? Yet it could end up costing Grayson Turner everything.
When Belva Turner catches her husband about to kiss another woman, her whole world comes crashing down. Well, what’s left of it anyway. Truthfully, trouble has been brewing in their marriage since the birth of the twins. But this… this would be the end of it. The end of their arguing. The end of trying but failing to make it work. The end of their marriage.
Sure, he’d messed up big time, but the last thing Grayson expected was to come home to an empty house. His one mistake costs him everything he’s spent his entire adult life building. With nothing left to lose, Gray grasps the chance to make things right with God and rebuild better this time.
Belva may be ready to throw in the towel, but Gray will do whatever it takes to get his family back and fix their broken marriage—even if it means facing the painful roots that shaped who he is today. But how is he supposed to find redemption when his wife has given up and walked away without a backward glance?
When Belva Turner catches her husband about to kiss another woman, her whole world comes crashing down. Well, what’s left of it anyway. Truthfully, trouble has been brewing in their marriage since the birth of the twins. But this… this would be the end of it. The end of their arguing. The end of trying but failing to make it work. The end of their marriage.
Sure, he’d messed up big time, but the last thing Grayson expected was to come home to an empty house. His one mistake costs him everything he’s spent his entire adult life building. With nothing left to lose, Gray grasps the chance to make things right with God and rebuild better this time.
Belva may be ready to throw in the towel, but Gray will do whatever it takes to get his family back and fix their broken marriage—even if it means facing the painful roots that shaped who he is today. But how is he supposed to find redemption when his wife has given up and walked away without a backward glance?
- GenresChristianSecond Chance
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2021
81 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Boyd
25 books265 followersI wrote a short story for newsletter subscribers called John’s Fortune. Be sure to grab your free copy! https://dl.bookfunnel.com/68umkcxpkc
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 11, 2023
I read the first book today and it was so good so I got this one and realized I read this before and it was a horrible book. He was a total pig and I can't believe she ever took him back. He totally cheated. Just disgusting and his I made it right with God statement after he had been caught and thought he was all good for that was just horrible? His wife forgave him but I didn't. lol. Seriously this book didn't live up to the first one and I may not read this author again for awhile. Such a bad taste it left in my mouth!
8/16/2021
One 'almost' discretion? Unfortunately, it was more than almost. He admitted to kissing and touching her and who knows what else. And I hated that he immediately thought "my wife is a Christian so she will forgive me'. I just didn't really get how he went from kissing her, or almost kissing her because his little girl interrupted him, to utter remorse and making peace with God in a matter of hours. I felt like he knew if he sinned, as long as he said I am sorry, he would be forgiven. It's like I can do whatever I want, and then be sorry and poof I am good. And he couldn't understand why she didn't get over it sooner. They didn't have sex so she should be fine. It never defined what they did do but blushing at the word 'touching' meant a lot more happened than he said. I hate cheating and I read the stories so I can become hardened and not care so much but I definitely still care so please be aware this is my personal opinion on the story line and not a review of the author's writing. I found it entirely readable and I would read her again. Just sad that I thought it was an almost cheating but in my opinion it was TOTALLY cheating.
8/16/2021
One 'almost' discretion? Unfortunately, it was more than almost. He admitted to kissing and touching her and who knows what else. And I hated that he immediately thought "my wife is a Christian so she will forgive me'. I just didn't really get how he went from kissing her, or almost kissing her because his little girl interrupted him, to utter remorse and making peace with God in a matter of hours. I felt like he knew if he sinned, as long as he said I am sorry, he would be forgiven. It's like I can do whatever I want, and then be sorry and poof I am good. And he couldn't understand why she didn't get over it sooner. They didn't have sex so she should be fine. It never defined what they did do but blushing at the word 'touching' meant a lot more happened than he said. I hate cheating and I read the stories so I can become hardened and not care so much but I definitely still care so please be aware this is my personal opinion on the story line and not a review of the author's writing. I found it entirely readable and I would read her again. Just sad that I thought it was an almost cheating but in my opinion it was TOTALLY cheating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2021
If a cheating husband story can be considered sweet, this one fits the description.
Strong faith based story.
Wife catches husband kissing the OW (it hasn’t been a full blown affair) and after their confrontation takes their children to their vacation home (built on property given to her by her parents). This forces him to take a hard look at himself, and he realizes he’s lost sight of God and their marriage. He promptly goes into fix it mode.
Fix it mode is ending his other relationship (off page) and counseling with their pastor. The pastor recognizes that the cheating is a symptom of their marriage being in trouble much longer than when the cheating starts. Husband admits it started when their children were born, that she gave them too much attention. But, he still knows the choice to cheat, ignoring his faith were all on him.
His life completely falls apart. This is rather heavy handed, the author wants the reader to understand that God is in control. His wife leaves; he and the OW lose their jobs for breaking the non-fraternizing rule at their law firm. And, he has to admit that they live beyond their means. Pride pushed him to live a better life the the poor childhood he comes from. They have to sell their main home and quickly. And he can’t find a new position.
When they put their lives in God’s hands, they find their HEA. He reconciles with his parents and sister, they go back to church, their house sells, he finds the perfect position and they reconcile. HEA and a new baby on the way.
I thought about how to rate this and ultimately went with 4 stars, but with the caveat that this is based on being a strong Christian Faith based story. Non believers will most likely not appreciate much of the story.
The author uses the ‘wife be submissive to your husband’ theme, but does an excellent job making sure to include the ‘and husband love your wife like Christ loves his church’. You can’t have one without the other. I will also add no one blames the wife for leaving and wanting a separation and possibly divorce, the most she gets back from her mom is to give it time.
Strong faith based story.
Wife catches husband kissing the OW (it hasn’t been a full blown affair) and after their confrontation takes their children to their vacation home (built on property given to her by her parents). This forces him to take a hard look at himself, and he realizes he’s lost sight of God and their marriage. He promptly goes into fix it mode.
Fix it mode is ending his other relationship (off page) and counseling with their pastor. The pastor recognizes that the cheating is a symptom of their marriage being in trouble much longer than when the cheating starts. Husband admits it started when their children were born, that she gave them too much attention. But, he still knows the choice to cheat, ignoring his faith were all on him.
His life completely falls apart. This is rather heavy handed, the author wants the reader to understand that God is in control. His wife leaves; he and the OW lose their jobs for breaking the non-fraternizing rule at their law firm. And, he has to admit that they live beyond their means. Pride pushed him to live a better life the the poor childhood he comes from. They have to sell their main home and quickly. And he can’t find a new position.
When they put their lives in God’s hands, they find their HEA. He reconciles with his parents and sister, they go back to church, their house sells, he finds the perfect position and they reconcile. HEA and a new baby on the way.
I thought about how to rate this and ultimately went with 4 stars, but with the caveat that this is based on being a strong Christian Faith based story. Non believers will most likely not appreciate much of the story.
The author uses the ‘wife be submissive to your husband’ theme, but does an excellent job making sure to include the ‘and husband love your wife like Christ loves his church’. You can’t have one without the other. I will also add no one blames the wife for leaving and wanting a separation and possibly divorce, the most she gets back from her mom is to give it time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
February 5, 2025DNF.
I just can’t read another book where the cheated wife has to apologize because she didn’t put it out enough so her husband felt the need to cheat with his young employee.
He didn’t go all the way but he would have had the heroine and his children not caught him kissing ow.
And no, I can’t read another book where the hero is angry and the heroine has to apologize because she doesn’t immediately forgive and forget him because they’re Christian’s and Christians have to forgive and forget and the women are submitted to men.
This is complete bs.
I stopped when the loser gets offended because she dared taunt him with his cheating, because you know, he apologized and she’s just mean.
Fuck you.
I just can’t read another book where the cheated wife has to apologize because she didn’t put it out enough so her husband felt the need to cheat with his young employee.
He didn’t go all the way but he would have had the heroine and his children not caught him kissing ow.
And no, I can’t read another book where the hero is angry and the heroine has to apologize because she doesn’t immediately forgive and forget him because they’re Christian’s and Christians have to forgive and forget and the women are submitted to men.
This is complete bs.
I stopped when the loser gets offended because she dared taunt him with his cheating, because you know, he apologized and she’s just mean.
Fuck you.
March 19, 2023
2 ⭐⭐ - Meh!
==============
==============
“You’ve kissed her.” No question there. It had been about to happen when Belva and the kids had walked up on them today. Something told her it hadn’t been their first.
But when she started toward the restaurant, there he was, in the parking lot, his hands on the waist of another woman as she leaned into him. The only thing that stopped their lips from meeting was the sound of his daughter’s voice calling out to him.
“So let me get this straight. You’ve had what I can only guess were some pretty intense make-out sessions with the woman, and you never expected it to lead to something more?”
“She’s a legal secretary at the firm.” She sprang from the bed and her feet automatically carried her to the door.
“I caught him with another woman.”
“It seems like all Gray and I have done lately is fight. Maybe it’s time to let go. I’m not sure I can get over this. Every time I close my eyes, I see him with her.”
He didn’t deserve her forgiveness. But that’s what Christian spouses did when one of them screwed up, didn’t they?
And that’s exactly what it was—an affair. He’d been fooling himself for a while by not putting a label on it, but he’d cheated on his wife.
had started long before the make-out sessions. Back to when he’d allowed his thoughts to wander to the realm of possibilities the first time Alexa had flirted with him.
It hadn’t been easy trying to break things off with a would-be girlfriend while skating around his boss in the hopes that nothing about this mess got back to him.
“Please, Belva. Please don’t do this. It’s over. I let her know today that it’s over.
“But she still works there. You’ll be seeing each other every day. I can’t live like that, wondering every day what the two of you are doing.”
“I cheated. I don’t mean… I didn’t sleep with her. We only kissed and…” More to it than that, but he was too embarrassed to spill out the details. “Belva caught me.”
The image of him and that hussy flashed through her mind again and it still had the power to nauseate her.
Even though he’d told her repeatedly that it was over between them, Alexa had not given up her pursuit. If anything, she’d upped the ante.
The seemingly innocent touches were how this all got started in the first place. He’d welcomed them in the beginning, but now it sickened him.
If he’d have put a stop to her advances in the beginning, he wouldn’t be in the mess he was in now.
“I don’t know why you’re being so stubborn about this. We make a great team. You said your wife left you. She didn’t want you, but there is a perfectly good woman here who does.”
“Don’t blame your problems all on me. According to you, your marriage was in trouble before we got together.” True statement, but one he should never have shared with her.
“Miss Hinton, you made advances toward Mr. Turner, and I heard him tell you to stop. He walked away and you pursued. Sexual harassment could find you in a lawsuit, one you wouldn’t win. I want no part of that in my law firm. Gather your things together and leave the premises. You’re fired.”
“What were you thinking?” John studied him, then shook his head. “I know things haven’t been great at home for a while, but this? You were the last one here I thought I had to worry about breaking that non-fraternizing rule.”
It started out with a couple of innocent work lunches and ended when Belva caught us kissing in the street.”
“You were unfaithful long before any kissing happened.”
“That kiss was not the extent of it. I know how this works. A match was lit when you first entertained the idea of going out with that woman. That’s when the unfaithfulness began. Kissing her only threw gasoline to the flame. If your wife hadn’t caught you, it would have gone further, and you know it.”
“You’ve been a good employee. A friend even. Because of that, I will do you this one favor.” A glimmer of hope ignited in Gray’s chest, easing the tension by a fraction. “I won’t fire you.”
“I’ll let you resign instead.”
“I lost my job today.” “Oh man. Why? What happened?”
“My boss found out about… everything. I broke the no-fraternizing policy, so I had to be punished.”
Just the thought of having to forgive Gray made her angry. Angry at him, angry at her circumstances, and if she could be honest with herself, angry with God.
As petty as it sounded, he’d resented her for putting the kids above everything, including him.
January 27, 2021
What an incredibly moving, emotionally charged, and thoroughly restorative book! I have always enjoyed Andrea Boyd's novels but this is her best yet. The author adeptly addresses the raw, gut-wrenching emotions of a marriage that is slowly deteriorating, along with the idols that can creep into every believer's life such as desire for more success and financial security, working for others' approval and perception of perfection, and even preoccupation and obsession in rearing our children. These issues hit me squarely in the chest and I totally empathized with Gray and Belva. Gray is an admirable hero though he doesn't start out that way. Yes, he has a lot of baggage from his past but it's when he comes forward with a repentant heart, a teachable spirit, a redirected and renewed mind that he becomes the hero that we are all rooting for. Gray's tireless pursuit of Belva is tender, sweet, and often times heart-rending. Belva's transformation is somewhat more subtle but no less powerful. True repentance, forgiveness, reconciliation and healing can be found within the pages of this well-written story.
And for those who loved Wade Spencer in Waiting for You, you are absolutely going to love how Wade becomes the friend, brother, and mentor that Gray needs in his darkest hour. If you love contemporary romance, you need to read this one.
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All my opinions are solely my own.
And for those who loved Wade Spencer in Waiting for You, you are absolutely going to love how Wade becomes the friend, brother, and mentor that Gray needs in his darkest hour. If you love contemporary romance, you need to read this one.
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All my opinions are solely my own.
Read
January 27, 2021Thank God, I have been blessed with a faithful husband! I don’t mind telling you things would’ve gotten physical if I’d have walked up on the same scene Belva did and both would’ve carried a few marks for a while! I ain’t kidding, y’all.
But I have known other couples who’ve gone through this with a little more grace. I’ve seen the struggle to get back on solid footing. I hope I’ve done the story justice and I pray it helps in some way.
But I have known other couples who’ve gone through this with a little more grace. I’ve seen the struggle to get back on solid footing. I hope I’ve done the story justice and I pray it helps in some way.
November 12, 2022
3.5/stars
I must have read this pre.Goodreads account,as it is quite familiar. The usual suspects in religious genre,drift from God,inattentive wife,overwhelmed by life stressors, predatory ow.At one point dual blame ascribed, but husband walks it back.Began as an emotional affair,progressed to touching,make outs...luckily wife saw them together or he admits would likely have progressed. She initially takes off,wants divorce. There is angst and repentant husband. They seek counseling with pastor,but religious tone does not swamp the tale. I was able to appreciate this cheating scenario and resolution.
I must have read this pre.Goodreads account,as it is quite familiar. The usual suspects in religious genre,drift from God,inattentive wife,overwhelmed by life stressors, predatory ow.At one point dual blame ascribed, but husband walks it back.Began as an emotional affair,progressed to touching,make outs...luckily wife saw them together or he admits would likely have progressed. She initially takes off,wants divorce. There is angst and repentant husband. They seek counseling with pastor,but religious tone does not swamp the tale. I was able to appreciate this cheating scenario and resolution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2021
'Time to let the past be a lesson for a better future.'
When a couple, who are both Christians, married for 7 years, are separated, can they allow God to heal the pain and get past it to rebuild their marriage and lives?
This is the premise of Andrea Boyd's story. And what a wonderful story it is. A true testament of what God can do in a person's life if they will only allow Him to take control and do things His way. Incredibly moving and well written, Boyd sits us down and tells us this tale as if she were in our living room. Straight from the heart, the story is told in her unique way that has the reader settling down into it and it won't turn you loose until the last page. Even then, you think on it more. I was in tears in many places. What a powerful spiritual message here! And not just for marriages in trouble. For our lives as believers. Boyd creates characters that are real, with real problems. She doesn't shy away from the hard stuff in life, and delves deep into that hard stuff until the light of God shines through. I loved every single minute. I can highly recommend this without reservations.
My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is completely my own.
When a couple, who are both Christians, married for 7 years, are separated, can they allow God to heal the pain and get past it to rebuild their marriage and lives?
This is the premise of Andrea Boyd's story. And what a wonderful story it is. A true testament of what God can do in a person's life if they will only allow Him to take control and do things His way. Incredibly moving and well written, Boyd sits us down and tells us this tale as if she were in our living room. Straight from the heart, the story is told in her unique way that has the reader settling down into it and it won't turn you loose until the last page. Even then, you think on it more. I was in tears in many places. What a powerful spiritual message here! And not just for marriages in trouble. For our lives as believers. Boyd creates characters that are real, with real problems. She doesn't shy away from the hard stuff in life, and delves deep into that hard stuff until the light of God shines through. I loved every single minute. I can highly recommend this without reservations.
My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. I received no compensation and the opinion in this review is completely my own.
dnf
May 18, 2023DNF @ 24% - not feeling it
Christian Romance but not preachy.
He (lawyer) gets caught about to kiss the OW—office assistant. He admits to make out sessions but no sex. He’s immediately regretful and ends it with OW. The wife (h) leaves him and asks for a divorce. He begs for a second chance and suggests counseling. He loses his job for fraternizing. They were living beyond their means (unbeknownst to h) and they have to sell their home. Blah, blah, dnf. Maybe some other time.
Christian Romance but not preachy.
He (lawyer) gets caught about to kiss the OW—office assistant. He admits to make out sessions but no sex. He’s immediately regretful and ends it with OW. The wife (h) leaves him and asks for a divorce. He begs for a second chance and suggests counseling. He loses his job for fraternizing. They were living beyond their means (unbeknownst to h) and they have to sell their home. Blah, blah, dnf. Maybe some other time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2021
When Forever Fades is a powerful, gripping story of forgiveness, restoration, and fighting to save a broken marriage. There are so many truths and golden nuggets of wisdom packed in this story, and each one is applicable to those already married, already engaged, and even to those thinking about getting married in the future.
When Forever Fades also addresses what truly matters in life. Is it climbing to the top to be successful, to be better, money, or power or is it God, your family, and your kids? What is important in life?
I received a complimentary book from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
When Forever Fades also addresses what truly matters in life. Is it climbing to the top to be successful, to be better, money, or power or is it God, your family, and your kids? What is important in life?
I received a complimentary book from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
October 24, 2023
My rating: 3 stars
What I loved: I truly believe Gray(H) was remorseful and worked on himself to make sure his marriage would be better and stronger. I also liked how Belva(h) wanted to take things slow and Gray didn’t push her.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how it was insinuated that because of Belva being too busy being a mom that it gave Gray the ok to cheat. All he had to do is communicate with her. There is no excuse to cheat. I also didn’t like how he said it all changed when the kids were born (even though he was the one who wanted a big family) but in truth it changed when he was hired in a big firm and was too busy wanting bigger and better things.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Christian Based, Cheating, Marriage in Trouble. H and h are married with twins. h goes to the H’s job with their kids to surprise him with a lunch date and she sees him with a lady out in the parking lot holding her and about to kiss. H tells the h that the ow works at his job. That they never went all the way, just kissed with some “intense make out sessions”. h with the twins leave the H to go to their house that is near her family. She tells the H that they are done. H upset tells her that he wants to make their marriage work and wants to go to marriage counseling with their priest. H realizes that he hasn’t been a good Christian. h’s brother goes to the H and tells him if he loves the h to fight for her. H is asked to resign and the ow gets fired when the boss finds out about their affair. H goes to counseling and the h doesn’t show up. The h’s family tell her to find forgiveness and ask god for help. H and h sell their home and do counseling. h finally forgives the H but asks for time. H and h take a vacation that the h’s brother gave to them. H gets a call about a job and is finally feeling that everything is falling into place. H saves a guy and h realizes she doesn’t want to waste anymore time. When they get home h’s sister confesses that she has been seeing a married man. H gets the job. H and h go out to dinner and they run into the ow that the H was involved with. H is worried that the h will be mad again but h tells him about her sister and they pray for the ow. HEA with h pregnant.
Final thoughts: This was an ok read. I normally don’t read Christian based books and I probably won’t read anymore anytime soon.
What I loved: I truly believe Gray(H) was remorseful and worked on himself to make sure his marriage would be better and stronger. I also liked how Belva(h) wanted to take things slow and Gray didn’t push her.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how it was insinuated that because of Belva being too busy being a mom that it gave Gray the ok to cheat. All he had to do is communicate with her. There is no excuse to cheat. I also didn’t like how he said it all changed when the kids were born (even though he was the one who wanted a big family) but in truth it changed when he was hired in a big firm and was too busy wanting bigger and better things.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Christian Based, Cheating, Marriage in Trouble. H and h are married with twins. h goes to the H’s job with their kids to surprise him with a lunch date and she sees him with a lady out in the parking lot holding her and about to kiss. H tells the h that the ow works at his job. That they never went all the way, just kissed with some “intense make out sessions”. h with the twins leave the H to go to their house that is near her family. She tells the H that they are done. H upset tells her that he wants to make their marriage work and wants to go to marriage counseling with their priest. H realizes that he hasn’t been a good Christian. h’s brother goes to the H and tells him if he loves the h to fight for her. H is asked to resign and the ow gets fired when the boss finds out about their affair. H goes to counseling and the h doesn’t show up. The h’s family tell her to find forgiveness and ask god for help. H and h sell their home and do counseling. h finally forgives the H but asks for time. H and h take a vacation that the h’s brother gave to them. H gets a call about a job and is finally feeling that everything is falling into place. H saves a guy and h realizes she doesn’t want to waste anymore time. When they get home h’s sister confesses that she has been seeing a married man. H gets the job. H and h go out to dinner and they run into the ow that the H was involved with. H is worried that the h will be mad again but h tells him about her sister and they pray for the ow. HEA with h pregnant.
Final thoughts: This was an ok read. I normally don’t read Christian based books and I probably won’t read anymore anytime soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2021
4.5 STARS
He'd never hesitated to declare his faith to his colleagues or to his clients if the subject came up. His testimony was in shambles now. How would he ever get past that?
Boyd is an author who does not shy away from hard things. Presented through a Christian lens, these characters are vulnerable, struggling and fighting their way through, definitely not perfect people. Belva only sees Gray's indiscretion in the beginning but as the story progresses is faced with her own languid attitude toward spiritual things. Each is faced with the ramification of sin in their own hearts, where it leads and the damage that occurs when left unrecognized and/or unrepentant. Boyd nailed the human condition in all its ugliness.
I do not have personal experience with the type of marriage struggle presented but I felt deep emotion toward both Belva and Gray. I was definitely challenged while reading this book. None of us know how we will respond to a crisis or trial until we're actually faced with it but as a Christian, I hope I would have the same determination they did.
When Forever Fades is book two in the Spencer family drama that will surely resonate with many readers and I hope they will see that ultimate healing and restoration comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Spencer family is pretty awesome, loving one another through life's good and bad. Glimpses of Wade Spencer (Waiting for You: The Spencer Family #1) and his wisdom were a highlight for this reader. I look forward to book three when it comes out.
I was provided an electronic copy from the author for review purposes. No compensation has been received.
He'd never hesitated to declare his faith to his colleagues or to his clients if the subject came up. His testimony was in shambles now. How would he ever get past that?
Boyd is an author who does not shy away from hard things. Presented through a Christian lens, these characters are vulnerable, struggling and fighting their way through, definitely not perfect people. Belva only sees Gray's indiscretion in the beginning but as the story progresses is faced with her own languid attitude toward spiritual things. Each is faced with the ramification of sin in their own hearts, where it leads and the damage that occurs when left unrecognized and/or unrepentant. Boyd nailed the human condition in all its ugliness.
I do not have personal experience with the type of marriage struggle presented but I felt deep emotion toward both Belva and Gray. I was definitely challenged while reading this book. None of us know how we will respond to a crisis or trial until we're actually faced with it but as a Christian, I hope I would have the same determination they did.
When Forever Fades is book two in the Spencer family drama that will surely resonate with many readers and I hope they will see that ultimate healing and restoration comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Spencer family is pretty awesome, loving one another through life's good and bad. Glimpses of Wade Spencer (Waiting for You: The Spencer Family #1) and his wisdom were a highlight for this reader. I look forward to book three when it comes out.
I was provided an electronic copy from the author for review purposes. No compensation has been received.
April 15, 2021
I greatly enjoyed this story, which was different in that the characters were already married (with kids). This is not a "falling in love" story, but a story of two characters who experience a marital crisis and have to decide if their marriage is worth working/fighting for.
I did have a few issues getting into the story. First, the opening line ("It's not what it looks like") is not only a bit of a cliche, but it skips right over the event that pushes the characters into the crisis. Rather than the visceral experience of Belva seeing her husband almost kissing another woman (this is not a spoiler; it's stated in the book's description), we are "told," as backstory, what happened. I think the book could have started out way more compelling had the author chosen to start the story with that event.
Second, before Gray can work on his marriage, he has to "get right with God." This is not an easy, simple process after what has happened, and yet we get only one line along the lines of, "He'd spent the night on his knees and gotten right with God." I wanted to see more; to see him struggle with his faith, especially in light of what was going on in his life.
Other than those couple of stumbling blocks early in the story, the interactions and progress of these two people was very believable and well done. I felt for them both all the way. Kudos to the author for tackling the subject of cheating in a "romance." If you like Christian romance that doesn't shy away from the tough stuff, this story is for you!
I did have a few issues getting into the story. First, the opening line ("It's not what it looks like") is not only a bit of a cliche, but it skips right over the event that pushes the characters into the crisis. Rather than the visceral experience of Belva seeing her husband almost kissing another woman (this is not a spoiler; it's stated in the book's description), we are "told," as backstory, what happened. I think the book could have started out way more compelling had the author chosen to start the story with that event.
Second, before Gray can work on his marriage, he has to "get right with God." This is not an easy, simple process after what has happened, and yet we get only one line along the lines of, "He'd spent the night on his knees and gotten right with God." I wanted to see more; to see him struggle with his faith, especially in light of what was going on in his life.
Other than those couple of stumbling blocks early in the story, the interactions and progress of these two people was very believable and well done. I felt for them both all the way. Kudos to the author for tackling the subject of cheating in a "romance." If you like Christian romance that doesn't shy away from the tough stuff, this story is for you!
May 30, 2021
This was a surprisingly powerful read. I was impressed that the h did not have to be arrested for assault after walking up to her husband and another woman....she was obviously stronger than I would have been. The husband's affair to that point had been emotional but was rapidly progressing to intimacy. Fortunately, this event was a wake up call for both spouses and through renewed faith, counseling and growth they restored their marriage.
March 29, 2023
When Forever Fades
This story was about a marriage in crisis. She caught him with another woman. The crisis started before the woman. And this book delves in all of the reasons why. This is an inspirational topic with a big dose of Christianity and how to forgive and fix the marriage.
This story was about a marriage in crisis. She caught him with another woman. The crisis started before the woman. And this book delves in all of the reasons why. This is an inspirational topic with a big dose of Christianity and how to forgive and fix the marriage.
August 22, 2025
Gray is so unbelievably dumb in this novel it was painful to read at times. Belva deserved better.
February 6, 2021
If you're looking for a deeply emotional story of a marriage in trouble, pick up When Forever Fades. Yes, there is redemption but it doesn't come easy for either of the main characters.
When Belva Turner decides to surprise her husband, Grayson with lunch, she doesn't expect to be the one surprised. She rounds the corner of his office building in time to see him go in for a kiss with another woman. Humiliated, she turns, but not before one of her twins shouts, "There's Daddy!" When Gray follows her home, apologizing all the while, all she can think is, "How long has this been going on right under my nose?" Banishing him from their bedroom doesn't seem like enough punishment, so when he leaves for work the next day, she packs up the kids and heads to the farmhouse they built on land she inherited from her father. Can she ever forgive Gray for stepping outside their marriage bond?
Gray has known for a long time that his marriage was in trouble. Ever since the twins were born, Belva has been a different woman - far more mother than wife. Relegated to the backseat in every family decision, it has been years since he felt valued as both a man and a husband. When one of the office secretaries begins paying him special attention, his injured heart responds. While it never goes beyond a few kisses and dinners out, Gray knows what he is doing is wrong, but it doesn't really sink in until he sees the devastation on his wife's face, and the equally strong anger that follows. When he arrives home to a silent, empty house, his own heart breaks. Is there anything Gray can do to win back his wife's love?
As the life Gray has built begins to crumble - first his marriage, then his job - he turns back to the God he stopped depending on years ago. Belva also grew up in a family whose hope was always placed in the Lord, but she has been so focused on her children that she has lost her connection to the God who loves her. As she sees the changes Gray is making, can she also begin to see that maybe he wasn't the only one making mistakes in their marriage?
This was one of Andrea Boyd's most deeply emotional stories yet! I grieved for both Belva and Gray as their marriage disintegrated, then rejoiced with them as they took the necessary steps to put it back together. I loved how - even though there was plenty of "blame" to go around - Gray never dumped any of that on his wife. He always showed her that he honored her. There was a very clear line drawn between "before the indiscretion" and "after". He very clearly repented, or turned away, from his past.
I can very highly recommend this book! It continues the story of the Spencer family, as Belva is a sister to Wade, whose story was told in Waiting for You.
I received this book free from the author, but every opinion here is my own!
When Belva Turner decides to surprise her husband, Grayson with lunch, she doesn't expect to be the one surprised. She rounds the corner of his office building in time to see him go in for a kiss with another woman. Humiliated, she turns, but not before one of her twins shouts, "There's Daddy!" When Gray follows her home, apologizing all the while, all she can think is, "How long has this been going on right under my nose?" Banishing him from their bedroom doesn't seem like enough punishment, so when he leaves for work the next day, she packs up the kids and heads to the farmhouse they built on land she inherited from her father. Can she ever forgive Gray for stepping outside their marriage bond?
Gray has known for a long time that his marriage was in trouble. Ever since the twins were born, Belva has been a different woman - far more mother than wife. Relegated to the backseat in every family decision, it has been years since he felt valued as both a man and a husband. When one of the office secretaries begins paying him special attention, his injured heart responds. While it never goes beyond a few kisses and dinners out, Gray knows what he is doing is wrong, but it doesn't really sink in until he sees the devastation on his wife's face, and the equally strong anger that follows. When he arrives home to a silent, empty house, his own heart breaks. Is there anything Gray can do to win back his wife's love?
As the life Gray has built begins to crumble - first his marriage, then his job - he turns back to the God he stopped depending on years ago. Belva also grew up in a family whose hope was always placed in the Lord, but she has been so focused on her children that she has lost her connection to the God who loves her. As she sees the changes Gray is making, can she also begin to see that maybe he wasn't the only one making mistakes in their marriage?
This was one of Andrea Boyd's most deeply emotional stories yet! I grieved for both Belva and Gray as their marriage disintegrated, then rejoiced with them as they took the necessary steps to put it back together. I loved how - even though there was plenty of "blame" to go around - Gray never dumped any of that on his wife. He always showed her that he honored her. There was a very clear line drawn between "before the indiscretion" and "after". He very clearly repented, or turned away, from his past.
I can very highly recommend this book! It continues the story of the Spencer family, as Belva is a sister to Wade, whose story was told in Waiting for You.
I received this book free from the author, but every opinion here is my own!
March 26, 2025
The running theme for these Christian books with cheating seems to be manipulation, gaslight and strong arm. If that doesn’t work, guilt the woman by saying God would want you to forgive and throw in marriage counseling with a preacher. Zero accountability for the cheater besides him saying he’s sorry and it won’t happen again.
This bitch Gray cheated on his wife on Monday. Tuesday he expected her to forgive and forget. Mind you, at this point he hasn’t even broken up with his whore yet.
The thing about this book that annoyed me is the fact that everyone expected her to “just get over it and move on”. She wasn’t allowed to feel hurt or vent her anger and be petty.
I didn’t like Gray. Because of the cheating sure but really because he’s a selfish, self-centered narcissist.
Belva was annoying with her self righteous, judgmental attitude especially after Jo confided in her.
I didn’t believe in Gray’s remorse because if he weren’t caught, he’d have gone all the way with Alexa. Like his boss said, the moment he started entertaining the thoughts of being with Alexa was when the affair started 🤷🏽♀️
I didn’t really care that they ended up together and things worked out for them because if I’m being honest, I didn’t like Gray or Belva 😐
In conclusion, using faith as a means to force forgiveness is manipulation.
This bitch Gray cheated on his wife on Monday. Tuesday he expected her to forgive and forget. Mind you, at this point he hasn’t even broken up with his whore yet.
The thing about this book that annoyed me is the fact that everyone expected her to “just get over it and move on”. She wasn’t allowed to feel hurt or vent her anger and be petty.
I didn’t like Gray. Because of the cheating sure but really because he’s a selfish, self-centered narcissist.
Belva was annoying with her self righteous, judgmental attitude especially after Jo confided in her.
I didn’t believe in Gray’s remorse because if he weren’t caught, he’d have gone all the way with Alexa. Like his boss said, the moment he started entertaining the thoughts of being with Alexa was when the affair started 🤷🏽♀️
I didn’t really care that they ended up together and things worked out for them because if I’m being honest, I didn’t like Gray or Belva 😐
In conclusion, using faith as a means to force forgiveness is manipulation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2021
Very good!!
A couple that’s been married for seven years has trouble, even before the unthinkable happens. Gray is caught in another woman’s arms by his wife Belva. When Belva takes the kids and leaves, Gray knows he’s in trouble. Can he get forgiveness and make things right? Will Belva take him back? The characters are so real and felt almost like family. The author really dealt with this situation in a real way. Gray and Belva had to see their own faults and the way they had quit following God’s plan. Mrs Boyd did a wonderful job with the spiritual aspect of this painful situation. I wanted to see how this story was going to work out so I could hardly put it down once I got started on it. There is so much truth in this book that it would be wonderful to read whether you are having troubles in your marriage or not. I highly recommend it to my reader friends and family.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
A couple that’s been married for seven years has trouble, even before the unthinkable happens. Gray is caught in another woman’s arms by his wife Belva. When Belva takes the kids and leaves, Gray knows he’s in trouble. Can he get forgiveness and make things right? Will Belva take him back? The characters are so real and felt almost like family. The author really dealt with this situation in a real way. Gray and Belva had to see their own faults and the way they had quit following God’s plan. Mrs Boyd did a wonderful job with the spiritual aspect of this painful situation. I wanted to see how this story was going to work out so I could hardly put it down once I got started on it. There is so much truth in this book that it would be wonderful to read whether you are having troubles in your marriage or not. I highly recommend it to my reader friends and family.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 8, 2023
Excellent look at how complacent we can become in our marriages. Even Christians can forget the order God has for our marriage. When men love their wives as Christ loves the Church, it impacts every decision. When women lovingly submit to their husbands it strengthens him to love her more. They go together building that cord that can not be broken. One of the most powerful statements in this book was when the pastor pointed out that Christian women often place their children before their husbands. That simple act can wreck havoc in a marriage. I remember thinking that if I loved my children I would love their daddy more because that is what’s best for them, a strong family lead by a godly man. I. Cried a couple of times as I made my way through this book. Thank you for an excellent reminder of how a godly marriage works.
October 19, 2023
Heavily faith based book with cheating H. The h catches H as he is about to kiss ow. It is glossed over that there were some make out sessions but H was adamant they did not have sex.
I felt that there were a lot of excuses made about the reasoning for cheating/problems in their marriage because of "stepping away" from their faith. While for some, that might work as the reasoning, for those not heavily faith based, it is a cheap excuse.
Just my opinion.
H does grovel but quickly points out and get irritated repeatedly when h doesn't forgive him instantly and keeps asking for time.
Not for me.
I felt that there were a lot of excuses made about the reasoning for cheating/problems in their marriage because of "stepping away" from their faith. While for some, that might work as the reasoning, for those not heavily faith based, it is a cheap excuse.
Just my opinion.
H does grovel but quickly points out and get irritated repeatedly when h doesn't forgive him instantly and keeps asking for time.
Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2021
Second chance
I really liked this book. What I really enjoyed reading was how he proved to his wife how much he had changed. Then talking it slow while working with their marriage. You could feel the regret that he caused in his marriage and then Below finally realizing that she had a part in it too.
And then how they both fell into karma for their behavior. Kinda humbles you and he needed it. Lived watching him put his life back on track and becoming a better family man.
Good story..
I really liked this book. What I really enjoyed reading was how he proved to his wife how much he had changed. Then talking it slow while working with their marriage. You could feel the regret that he caused in his marriage and then Below finally realizing that she had a part in it too.
And then how they both fell into karma for their behavior. Kinda humbles you and he needed it. Lived watching him put his life back on track and becoming a better family man.
Good story..
July 30, 2021
A Christian based story about re-establishing trust and love with God’s help. After seeing her husband almost kiss another woman, Belva takes their twins and leaves. Kissing the other woman proves to be an expensive situation for Gray. As a result, he lost his wife, his children, his dream job, and his home. Realizing the error of his ways, he asks God’s help in setting his life in order.
How Gray and Belva reconnect and pray for guidance is an uplifting resolution to their situation. An inspirational read.
How Gray and Belva reconnect and pray for guidance is an uplifting resolution to their situation. An inspirational read.
August 10, 2021
Another amazing book by Andrea Boyd. I sure hope she continues with this series. The characters are absolutely loveable and will do anything for each other if at all possible. This was a story of what can happen with any marriage when people get in a rut and forget to pay attention and love their spouse. They give all of their love and attention to the kids and forget about their spouse and why they fell in love with them in the first place. With God all things are possible. I love that Gray & Belva turned to God for help and sought out counseling from the pastor. Such a great story. I can’t wait to read another book by this author.
March 21, 2023
💔“Time wasn’t going to change the fact that he’d been unfaithful. If she took him back and they stayed together for another fifty years, his infidelity would always be a part of their story.”
🔴Christian-based off-page cheating
🔴One of those reads that I feel bad for rating a mere 1 star because it’s a “me not you” thing I have going on with this book.
Nts:
Fix that last line..sheesh…it must be all things grammatically incorrect.
🔴Christian-based off-page cheating
🔴One of those reads that I feel bad for rating a mere 1 star because it’s a “me not you” thing I have going on with this book.
Nts:
Fix that last line..sheesh…it must be all things grammatically incorrect.
September 2, 2021
When Forever Fades (The Spencer Family #2) by Andrea Boyd
This is the 3rd book I have read by Andrea Boyd and it is amazing. I now have all of her books. Just when you think they can't get any better, here comes the next unputdownable book. This is another book that I highly suggest reading.
This is the 3rd book I have read by Andrea Boyd and it is amazing. I now have all of her books. Just when you think they can't get any better, here comes the next unputdownable book. This is another book that I highly suggest reading.
July 31, 2022
Trust
Christian faith and strength only could get Grayson and Belva back into each other's arms. How easy it can be to slide off the path with one's spouse when going through a rough patch in 'life'. With God all things are possibkr.
Christian faith and strength only could get Grayson and Belva back into each other's arms. How easy it can be to slide off the path with one's spouse when going through a rough patch in 'life'. With God all things are possibkr.
March 21, 2023
Another fantastic book
This series has been such a great uplifting series to read. The author does a perfect job of showing use how God can make your life so much better by believing in him.
This series has been such a great uplifting series to read. The author does a perfect job of showing use how God can make your life so much better by believing in him.
May 20, 2023
This didn't delve into the reasons why or exactly what took place between the cheating H and the OW. The h didn't seem to feel the insecurities or have doubts about the OW. When it was me, I kept wondering what the OW offered that I didnt. Everything seemed glossed over.
Read
September 29, 2023Not enough detail
Spoiler
Wife sees husband about to kiss OW in broad daylight. Husband admits to more than kissing but wife never asks how much more did they do. Not enough detail intact there was none.
Spoiler
Wife sees husband about to kiss OW in broad daylight. Husband admits to more than kissing but wife never asks how much more did they do. Not enough detail intact there was none.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews