Depending on You

Frontier Vows #3

by Melissa Jagears

She’s always believed in the magic of Christmas to heal hearts, but is she hoping for too big a miracle? Leah Whitsett had always thought of her husband as steadfast and morally upright, so when she learned Bryant had helped the mayor steal land from the townsfolk, nearly leading to her death at the hands of the mayor’s henchman, the foundation of her marriage was shaken. Now, weeks from Christmas, her husband has come home seeking to atone for the misery he put his family through and prove he can be the man Leah deserves. She knows the best gift she can give Bryant is forgiveness, but how can she trust him not to turn their lives upside down again? With emotions high and their marriage at stake, will the season bring the hope they need, or are their rifts too wide to mend?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Novella, Historical, Historical Fiction, Christmas, Christian Romance

120 pages, Paperback

First published December 4, 2020

About the author

I would love to connect with you through newsletter! I only send big updates, releases, and important stuff: http://newsletters.melissajagears.com/

My Review Star System:

A rare solid 5 means I LOVED it or was so impressed that I bring these books up in random conversations.

4.5-4 means great story. Recommended.

I don't post 3 star or below for newer Christian fiction (conflict of interest--I might have to work with the author). But any 3s mean the author wrote a good story, just something about it made it not a favorite.

2 was not that great and never redeemed itself.

1 aggravated me so much or was so poorly done I DNF or if I did finish, I wished I could get my time back.

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking for a sweet, heartwarming little novella, full of compassion and true love and Christmas-time feelz and forgiveness?

Look no further than this wonderful gem - a perfect addition to the Frontier Vows series, and the continuation of the story between Leah and Bryant that we all wanted.

Depending on You was short and poignant, and filled with the richness of a true God-inspired message, reminding us of the true meaning of forgiveness. If you've read the rest of the series (which you really should!), then you know what happened between Leah and Bryant to drive them apart. This novella sees a repentant Bryant returning to his home and his wife in order to make amends, but after such a betrayal as Leah suffered, how will she be able to forgive him?

I found it very refreshing and honestly just really nice reading a romance between an "older" couple, already married and with grown children and a grandbaby. It added a layer of depth that is sometimes lacking in this genre, when everything is just floofy-romance-focused. The romance here is incredibly believable, yet no less exciting than if the main characters had just met. The romantic bits were really-well executed, and the chemistry was real and perfect.

I also really appreciated that there were other little conflicts and plotlines interwoven in the main plot - something that's rather impressive to pull off in a novella, but it worked! The length was perfect, nothing felt rushed, everything had a satisfactory ending, and there was even a sweet little epilogue! <3

You'll definitely want to keep your eye out on this one as it releases soon! I definitely recommend reading the previous books in the series first though - the main issue between Bryant and Leah will be so much clearer, and the context of everything will make their reunion all the sweeter.

[Courtney Ranger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me want to go see a live Nativity, and (as long as it isn't raining) we're going to go to one tonight! I am so excited!!!!!

I enjoyed this sweet Christmas story about the importance of enduring when things get hard, specifically in marriage. I feel like that message is incredibly relevant for today's society.

I also loved the parts where Bryant was playing with the baby (because it's so cute)!

[Melissa]

I hope this quick story spreads the hope of Christmas in a season where things are different than years past. In the upcoming months, may we all find ways to be reconciled and united like my hero and heroine do!

[Heidi Chiavaroli · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful, heartwarming holiday romance of second chances and forgiveness. Melissa Jagears’s books are sure to please!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful story!

I honestly didn’t care much for Bryant in his earlier appearances in the series, but I loved Leah in both of the other books. Now he’s paid for his crimes by serving his time in jail, but he comes home to find everything different. All he wants is home and family—but his wife can’t even trust him in the same house with her. Is there any way he can win back his family and make a living in a town that knows his worst sins?

I had just lost my beloved dog when this came in the mail and this was just the warm, feel-good story I needed at the time. I’d recommend it both to lovers of second-chance romances and Christmas stories and also to others who need a little space of story in which things end satisfyingly.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Depending on You is a tender story of forgiveness and redemption. For a novella, it is fleshed out so well. I appreciate that the characters have lived some life. So often characters are barely out of their teenage years, whereas these characters have a history and a life behind them, while still having plenty to look forward to, if only they can reconcile. I empathized with Leah's desire to forgive but also her fear to forgive, and Bryant's feelings of not deserving forgiveness ring true as well.

As she typically does, Jagears includes intriguing historical details, such as the school for the blind that Jennie, Leah and Bryant's daughter, attends. She chose to write about her experiences as a blind woman to enlighten the sighted to what it was like for them. Her self-publishing venture is based on historical entrepreneurs who wished to share their story.

Also, if Christmas-themed reads aren't really your thing, this story does include a scene or two specific to Christmas, but doesn't focus on the holiday as a whole. This novella is short and sweet though and perfect to include in your holiday reading if you want a touch of Christmas and reconciliation. It's also great for anytime! I do think this can be enjoyed by itself, although it was fun for me to see previous main characters from the first two books. Do yourself a favor though and read the whole series if you enjoy historical romance.

I received an advanced copy of this novel; a positive review was not required and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Kav · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartwarming second chance love story built upon the themes of forgiveness and hope.

I haven't read the first two books in this series and I think it would have helped if I had since I felt like I'd leapt into the middle of a story. The author does a good job of relaying the pertinent facts -- a kind of quick catch-up backstory for both Leah and Bryant -- but I think their love story would have made more of an impact if I'd read the other books.

Readers are introduced to a lot of characters -- a town's worth -- who have all played secondary roles or were H/hs in previous books -- so if you're current with the series, you'll be pleased to get reacquainted. Newbies like me might flounder a bit but it won't take long to shuck that new-girl-in-town feeling and become lost in the story.

The town gave me a Little House on the Prairie or Dr. Quinn vibe -- with all kinds of personalities and I love the way they all came together to celebrate Christmas with a special church presentation that was both touching and laugh-out-loud funny.

There's a poignancy to Bryant's humble pursuit of his wife. But Leah harbors bitterness and distrust and her struggle with the principle of forgiveness makes for an achingly beautiful story.

[Trixi · Rating 4 out of 5]

With the evocative writer's voice I've come to expect, Jagears gives us a story of reconciliation, hard-won forgiveness, and the strong bonds of love between a married couple.

I love how patient & humble Bryant is, he knows he's done wrong by his wife and that it's going to take a long time for her to come around. He doesn't try to make light of his mistakes nor does he make excuses for them either. I think that helped Leah see how he wants to show her how much he's really changed. She knows in her heart she must forgive him and it's a struggle to do so. I like seeing how both of them try to find a way to reconcile their differences. Jagears doesn't just coat over the problems, she shows us how they deal with difficulties. It helps me in my own walk to deal with difficult people and try to find peace. Of course, the hard-won love & romance still brewing for these two was a much looked forward to reward in the end for me as a reader. Watching their journey and cheering them on every step of the way was satisfying.

If you like stories with a strong forgiveness theme like me, the reconciliation of a married couple, and faith interwoven in the pages, I think you will enjoy Depending on You ! Jagears is a wonderful inspirational historical fiction writer who never fails to draw me into her books.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own. *

[Ann Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Restoration a Gift of God's Love!

I like this book and see the challenge and beauty of a difficult marriage. A reminder of my own life and how after over 20 years of marriage I discovered how much I love the imperfect man God blessed me with. I say Melissa Jagears book is true to life. 😊

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depending on You was such a good novella! If you have read the Frontier Vows series, this story will add a beautiful depth to the series and begins with the return home of Bryant Whitsett, who made some big mistakes that had horrific consequences.

Things were definitely not good between Bryant and his wife, Leah, upon his return. Leah suffered horribly as a result of his actions and has trouble even imagining that she could ever forgive him or love him again.

I really enjoyed that the story was told from both of their perspectives. It helped me to empathize with both Leah and Bryant. I could understand the hurt and pain that they were each experiencing.

While there were tough situations in this novella, it was a very hopeful and uplifting story that left me happy to have read it. Even if you have not read the first two books in the series, I believe you could enjoy Depending on You, as the author did a good job of giving just enough information about Bryant’s misdeeds to fill in the details for someone who hasn’t read the other stories.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, what a powerful story of love, forgiveness and second chances. I was so engrossed in the characters and storyline that I read it in one sitting. I encourage you to do the same, as I feel this will just have a huge impact on how you read the story.

I couldn't imagine being a woman, even in today's world, who's husband has suddenly returned from doing jail time. I mean, Leah went through so much, with the accident, and having to provide for herself, and not really having talked with Bryant after he was arrested. She made a life for herself, and really I applaud her for that. BUT what she didn't do is really take the time to mourn. To mourn her marriage, the hurt and betrayal, and think about how to handle her husband's return.

Then you have Bryant. I kind of felt sorry for him, as it seemed like being in that jail cell really did a number on him. He knew what he did was wrong, and he wanted to make up for it. But to have a wife just kind of toss you to the side and seemingly not give you another chance? That's hard. It's also when Jagears starts to work her magic of this story. Let me say this - she packed quite the punch in this novella.

Forgiveness. It's a tricky thing really, and something I'm sure we all have a hard time dealing with. At least I know I do. But Jagears reminds readers of why we are to forgive....after all, aren't we forgiven for every thing that we do, and freely forgiven? I don't want to get too much into the story line, because you really need to read it for yourself, but wow. This story spoke straight to my heart! Highly recommend :)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kathryn Bochman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have never read a Melissa Jagears book that I didn’t love. And her newest Christmas novella, Depending on You, is no exception. The third “book” in her Frontier Vows series features the reunification of Leah and Bryant Whitsett after Bryant completes his prison sentence. With their marriage on rocky ground, they each must find a way to regain trust and offer forgiveness, and Christmas is the perfect season for that miracle.

Filled with hope, renewed purpose, and a message of sacrificial love, Jagears pens a story that needs to be read. I appreciated her honesty and emphasis on commitment to build those relationships with the ones closest to us. In this Christmas season, such a message carries a resounding poignancy.

I definitely recommend this heartfelt story! It is the perfect holiday read!

I received the book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[A.M. Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
The only thing better than reading a Jagears’s story, is visiting characters I’d already come to love from previous novels. You can read this series out of order, but if you’re reading in order you’ll remember Bryant very well and why he was in desperate need of a redemption story.
I found it easy to relate to Bryant and Leah as they struggled with bitterness, insecurity, and emotional hurt. True forgiveness isn’t something that just happens by chance; it’s a choice, and Jagears does an excellent job of walking the characters and the reader to a healthy conclusion.
Depending on You is a bite-sized Christmas novella, just perfect for creating the warm, fuzzy holiday feelings with a memorable spiritual message.

Rating and Recommendations: I’m giving it 5 stars and recommending it to those who enjoy Christian Historical, a historical Christmas novella, or looking for a good redemption story.

~ I received a copy from the author. I was not compensated for this review or required to give a favorable one. All thoughts are my own.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a powerful story by gifted wordsmith Melissa Jagears. I opened the book and was immediately captivated by the story and characters, which were old friends. With the author’s skilled writing, insertion of spiritual and life lessons, and mesmerizing plot, I was unable to put this book down until I had read until the end.

This is the story of middle aged married couple Bryant and Leah. They have hit a rough patch, but is it too rough for the healing power of forgiveness? Author Jagears has packed this full of lessons on love, second chances, marriage, family, trusting God, and forgiveness. This will speak straight to the heart of every reader.

Few books are written about mature married couples. This one was done with wisdom, grace, and beauty. I highly recommend it. It would make a fabulous book club choice. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my true, honest words.

[MJSH · Rating 4 out of 5]

"They ought to strive to be men that sacrificed the future they'd hoped for to do their best by those they loved."

This is book 3 in the Frontier Vows series and it can definitely be read as a stand-alone, though reading the series in order will give Leah and Bryant's marriage the proper background even before starting this book. It's an emotional tale of hurt, bitterness, forgiveness, and grace; what Leah and Bryant's marriage goes through after his felony conviction and stint in jail is what any marriage can go through after loss of trust. I really appreciated Bryant's depth of character and maturity, as well as his tenacity and persistence in pursuing his wife. Leah's reluctance to accept her husband is totally understandable, given her humiliation and her disability that resulted from consequences of his illegal activities. Their faith that ultimately brings them back together is admirable.

It's a heart-warming historical novella with a wonderful message of Christmas at the center of the plot. I received a copy of the book from the author via Inspirational Historical Fiction and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depending on You is the third installment from Melissa Jagears Frontier Vows series. I loved the first two books and this one is probably my new favorite to date. I thought it was a beautiful story set during the magical season of Christmas. It was wonderful to see redemption, hope and having second chances. I was entertained from start to finished. I just adored it.

Depending on You is getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy entertaining historical romance.

I received Depending on You from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Dawn Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bryant & Leah Whitsett are the primary characters in this book. This is not a typical romance since they are already married, but we learn from a previous book that they have been separated for several months.

Bryant has just returned and he anticipates being able to secure a job in town will be nearly impossible. Therefore, he's hoping that Leah will be willing to move elsewhere where he can find a job.

In the meantime, Leah has taken over the town laundry shop and learned to be more independent. She also feels that she is needed with their eldest daughter who has a young child of her own. Therefore, she cannot bring herself to agree with Bryant about moving. But, is she willing to see him leave without her?

What follows is more than your typical romance. It's more than your typical feel-good Christmas story. It's an object lesson on forgiveness and faithfulness. Bryant broke everyone's trust, especially Leah's and he has to prove himself again. But, will Leah be willing to forgive him and allow him to show he's trustworthy again? Will she allow selfishness and bitterness to interfere with her decisions?

Not often am I determined to keep reading so late into the night, but this story kept me up late! I just have to say that I loved it. Forgiveness is a much needed theme in today's world. Thank you, Melissa Jagears for stepping out and tackling this in a way that connects to people.

Romance - PG / kissing
Language - Clean
Themes - forgiveness, selfishness, bitterness, trust
My rating - 5 stars

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depending on You by Melissa Jagears
Frontier Vows Series Book Three
Bryant Whitsett had been so foolish. He allowed greed in his life...and ruined it. Now, he's returning home after seven months. Six of those months were spent in prison...paying for his crimes. He missed his wife. Looked forward to meeting his granddaughter. But, his welcome home wasn't quite what he would've liked. Perhaps it was what he deserved.

Leah Whitsett lived with the crimes of her husband every day. It was not just the betrayal of what he had done to the townspeople, but also to her by never talking to her about what he was feeling and what he was doing. She could've helped him. Instead, she lived with the scars of almost losing her life because of him. She didn't know if she could ever forgive him, trust him, or love him again.

Definitely a tissue alert if you cry easily, but what a remarkable story. A heartwarming series that doesn't gloss over the bad times but shows how people can overcome with God's help.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[LisLovesReading E.Espinoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Depending on You, by Melissa Jagears, is the third book in the Frontier Vows series. It is a historical fiction novella that offers a compelling story of a marriage on the brink of total brokenness. With sincerity and thoughtfulness, Ms. Jagears has skillfully woven a relevant story of heartache, repentance, faith, and forgiveness that is truly moving and emotionally-stirring. 
 
The characters in this novel are authentic and memorable. As they struggle with limitations, regrets, and painful memories, they are relatable and sympathetic. Even as they face an uncertain future, they grow to recognize that forgiveness is the hard and rocky path that will lead them to healing and restoration. Page by page, this book moves beyond mere entertainment and into a space of true meaning, encouragement, and hope.

Depending on You is an impactful story of second chances. It is a story of faith and renewed trust. It is also a story of commitment, family, and compassion. From the first page to the last, this novella is honest, tender, heartfelt, and ultimately uplifting. I gladly recommend it.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful love story! And one of the neat things is it is between an older married couple. Although it takes place in Wyoming in 1884, the circumstances Leah and her husband Bryant find themselves in could so easily occur now. After a 7 month separation while Bryant was in jail, can Leah forgive him? Especially with Christmas coming? There is also the tug of war in her heart between being a good mom to her adult children and being a good wife to her husband. What real struggles!
This novella is a quick read with only 122 pages. It is the third and final book in the Frontier Vows series but as it deals with different characters it certainly can be read alone. I enjoyed reading it and recommend it. I received a copy of this book from the author. I am freely writing a review - all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story that worked itself into every corner of my heart. I enjoyed all of the characters especially Leah. A beautiful lesson on how easy it is for a love one to let us down but how God never does. My heart thumped along with the pain and hurt Leah endured. The author does a fantastic job of engaging the reader into the each and every page, pulling about laughter and healing from its depths. I feel in love with this family and wanted only love and joy back into their midsts as though I were walking this road with them. This story will take you on an incredible journey of tears, joy and forgiveness that will leave you hanging on to every word!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Martha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short Christmas story was filled with depth and whimsy that I have come to expect from this author. The story about a family filled with pain, asking for forgiveness, while this seemed to be the theme of the story, for me it fell a bit short. It seemed to say that forgiveness was the same as reconciliation which biblically, I know to be two very different things. While the story was well written, engaging, it was not one that set right with me because of the message. As I finished the story, I felt that it had so many redeeming things in it, but overall, the message was one that gave me pause. I enjoyed the town, the laundry and so many amazing things set in this time period and will look forward to more books by the author.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Melissa Jagears returns us to the Frontier Vows series (you’ll want to read all of them). Full of historical facts, don’t expect it to be dry. Jagears has a really good way of incorporating facts into her stories that makes it really interesting to learn as you’re pulled into the lives of her characters.

Bryant and Leah deal with so much as a couple, and Jagears doesn’t shy away from the emotions that would be involved. There are many ups and downs throughout the story because of course life doesn’t run on an even keel, does it?

This is a Christmas story, but that isn’t the focus. The focus is remorse and forgiveness, I recommend it if you enjoy historical fiction with a sweet romance.

[Winnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Depending on You by Melissa Jagears is a sweet, clean story that is sure to touch the hearts of readers. Bryant Whitsett’s past mistakes have sent him to prison and left his wife Leah to fend for herself. While he is repentant, upon release he travels home to find a resentful, unforgiving wife. Can they work together to heal their marriage and gain forgiveness?

This is a sweet and tender tale of remorse, redemption, and forgiveness. Although this is a novella, it has a lot of story and heart packed into it. Jagears is a talented writer who never fails to touch my emotions with her stories. I’m looking forward to more of her books.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ Wonderful Story!

This is a wonderful story about love, life, and forgiveness. Receiving, giving, and living in forgiveness. Melissa Jagears books never fail to touch my heart. This book is no exception. I love how it shows the real life struggle of working past a dreadful wrong.
Leah and Bryant do not have a joyous reunion. As a reader, I was glad that it wasn't easy. But as someone who loves these characters, I was anxious for them.
I was very happy to see Ava and Jenny and loved learning a bit more about the school for the blind.
I highly recommend this book and the other Frontier Vows books.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet, heart-warming novella! Set during the Christmas season and with a strong theme of forgiveness, it’s the perfect story to read this time of year.
I was so glad to have a continuation of Bryant and Leah’s story. They were secondary characters in the first two books but they certainly had unfinished business. This series has made me feel like a special guest in the town of Armelle and I’m hoping there will be more stories to come!

*I received an advanced copy from the author but this in no way influenced my review. I seriously loved this story!!

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional, heartfelt novella from Melissa Jagears! Depending On You is a wonderful Christmas read, with strong themes of forgiveness, compassion, and redemption. Jagears conveys complex emotion so well, and even though the subject matter is serious and intense, it is an inspirational story for the holiday season. With funny and touching moments artfully woven together with tension and heartache, Depending On You is a wonderful addition to Jagears’ Frontier Vows series. 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bryant Whitsett arrives home after seven months away serving prison time for his part in a fraud not knowing what kind of reception he will receive from his family. His daughter Ava is happy to see him but his wife Leah is much more reserved. She has lost her trust in him and has much to forgive, which she finds very difficult. All of the Frontier Vows books deal with problems between married couples in a very authentic way. I'm enjoying this series very much and am glad there are more books to come.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

After finishing the first two, I was eager for this one too! (But, ofc, the library didn't have it in, so I had to buy it! Oops!) I'm glad to see Leah and Bryant figure out how to deal with all that began in book 1. I somehow didn't realize that it was a novella eBook, so it was over before I was ready to leave Armelle, but the pacing was excellent. It fit them well as they worked with the challenges life presented. I hope we'll see more of these characters, but I'll look forward to reading whatever the author publishes next!

[Gena Bessire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bryant and Leah’s Christmas Story of Redemption.

Bryant comes home humbled from his mistakes and time in prison. Leah is scarred both outwardly and inwardly by Bryant’s betrayal. Can they find their way back to each other?

This novella from Melissa Jagears answers the question “Did Bryant and Leah make it?” It was an enjoyable read with another peek at the town of Armelle and all its residents.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.