A Thousand Words

Unfailing Love #0

by Mandi Blake

Tyler’s last year of residency is all work and no play, just the way he likes it. His life would be smooth sailing into his medical career if he could improve his bedside manner. He agrees to a blind date but only to practice communication skills. Then, he’s speechless when he sees who is across the table.

Sissy isn’t one to turn down an adventure, especially not a blind date with a reportedly handsome doctor. When the blind date turns out to be her brother’s friend, Tyler, she’s not at all disappointed. Can she convince him to go with the flow for once?

He’s cautious, and she throws caution to the wind. When Tyler’s loyalty is torn between his friend and the woman he’s falling for, one unspoken word could be enough to change everything.

Genres: Romance, Christian, Christian Fiction, Clean Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Audiobook

ebook

Published January 1, 2021

About the author

Mandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.

Reviews

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super cute read. I really enjoyed the story and the one word stuff was just adorable.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was left a little lost with this one--thematically, it felt a bit all over the place. We start off with Sissy and Tyler having a severe mismatch in communication styles and Tyler being in trouble at his job because he needs to get better with his people skills--but then that all pretty much goes away after the first part of the story. We're left with a conflict between friends, an issue of trust and secrets, and everything that's going on with Sissy's brother, which was way more serious than I was expecting or prepared for. It kind of seemed like the last half of the book was a totally different conflict than the setup at the beginning had prepared me for, and I felt like I was walking into the dark without being able to predict what the characters might do next.

As I said, I was not expecting how serious the situation with Sissy's brother was going to get, and it was hard to watch, especially after loving the first scene where we saw them interacting. I also really hope that part of Sissy's intervention at the end was getting some kind of professional help? Because it almost seemed like the issue ended up not being "this is too big for friends/family to handle alone" and just "oh, we didn't have the right people helping," which doesn't seem like the right message to me with as far down the road as he was... Maybe I read it wrong, but that part of the resolution did unsettle me.

Overall, I did like the characters, but the muddy theme and the issues I didn't expect to get into specifically alcohol abuse, including drunk driving knock the rating down a bit for me.

[Sonya Wasden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so, so much. It is one of my favorite books by Mandi Blake. The interaction between Tyler and Sissy was priceless. She was so patient and I loved the "one word" exchanges that said so much.

Tyler was older than Sissy by several years and was one of her brother's best friends. They were set up on a blind date and didn't realize until they arrived, who their date was. Tyler had to be convinced to continue the date by Sissy but he was hooked in a short amount of time. She was happiness and light and he needed to learn to be more empathetic and kind in order to improve his bedside manner as a doctor.

I loved the entire story with all the secondary characters, as well. It was a clean, wholesome romance with depth. This is part of a "Love's Treasure" collection of stories written by a variety of authors. It can certainly be read as a stand alone book, as well.

If you want a story with heart and a happy ending, I highly recommend Mandi's books. She is a budding, up-and-coming Christian author who has a gifted style of storytelling.

I was given an arc copy and I willingly offer my honest review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an enjoyable story of opposites who end up being just right for each other. I loved that Sissy had had a crush on her older brother’s friend for years and finally had a shot at a romance with him. This book tackles some deep issues that Sissy’s brother, Dakota, is going through, too.

I read this story as part of the Love's Treasure Collection.

[K. Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the backstory to this series! It was great to see how Sissy & Tyler got their start and see two people, that you'd never expect, fit so perfectly together.

[Tawni Suchy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a perfect, easy, light read that still managed to lift my spirits and warm my heart. Mandi crushed the opposites attract trope. I loved the little surprises and twists and the drama was just enough to keep you on your toes. If you like romance with faith, hope, and forgiveness “A Thousand Words” is for you.

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first heard that Mandi Blake was writing Sissy and Tyler's story, I could barely contain my excitement. They were some of my favorite characters in the Unfailing Love series, and I couldn't wait to hear how their entire romance came about, especially with Sissy being the younger sister of one of Tyler's best friends. I can wholeheartedly say that this story was everything I was waiting for and more, and I can't possibly recommend it enough.

Sissy and Tyler are set up on a blind date; neither realizing who the other is beforehand. Both feel an instant chemistry, but navigating a relationship is going to be tricky since neither are sure how Sissy's older brother is going to end up feeling about it. As feelings begin to grow, they both feel this relationship is where God is leading them, but circumstances soon throw a huge curve ball, and neither are sure how to navigate through such troubled waters.

There are so many things I love about reading any Mandi Blake book. I love that the faith content is always at the front and center. I love how she's not afraid to tackle tough issues, and instead uses those issues as a way of showcasing God's amazing grace, and how He's always got a plan for our lives. I love how she can write amazing, swoon worthy romances that always leave the reader completely immersed in the story, but never includes uncomfortable content. And I especially love how she writes her characters in ways that make them feel like old friends. Sissy and Tyler's story includes all of these things plus so much more, and I truly adored it from start to finish.

If you've yet to read a book by this amazingly talented lady, then this is definitely the perfect one to start out with. I'm thinking I'm going to be rereading the entire Unfailing Love series in the very near future as I'm just not ready to say goodbye to my favorite characters yet.

I definitely recommend picking this one up, and I can't wait to read more of the books in the Love's Treasure Collection.

Thanks so much to Mandi Blake for providing me with a complimentary advance reader copy of her story to read and review!

Final Rating: 5/5.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of Sissy & Tyler!! You couldn’t find two more polar opposite people. Throw in the twist of them having grown up together with Tyler being close friends with Sissy’s brother and that provides advantages and complications all in one! Yes, they can complement each other well but that has a fine line when it comes to making it work. This well written story kept me longing to read on to find out what happens next and both laughing and crying throughout. I enjoy reading about how Christians are not exempt from making mistakes and hurting other people, even when it’s the last thing they want to do. What a true to life story I absolutely loved and highly recommend!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author but this review is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good story that I couldn’t put it down!!

Opposites attract when the main characters meet on a blind date…loved Sissy’s personality SO much…her fun loving, positive approach was heartwarming and how she used it to great effect to chip away at Tyler’s defences!!

Loved the Christian standards and friendships heralded clearly which gave a beautiful, clean, God centred read.

Totally want to read the rest of the series now! Highly recommend this story - please read!

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED Sissy and Tyler's story! Sissy has had a crush on Tyler for a long time, but he's her brother's best friend. These two opposites are set up on a blind date. Will they realize that they can make a life together, or will he remain only her brother's best friend??? Such a great book and love story!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[K B · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
I received a free copy of the clean novel A Thousand Words: Prequel to the Unfailing Love Series by Mandi Blake in the 14 book collection Love’s Treasure - A Christian Romance Collection - Limited Edition and this review was given freely.
This opposites attract novel focuses on trust and honesty in relationships, the perils of dating, finding balance in your life, contains a touch of irony and contains the dark themes of depression and alcoholism.
Flamboyant interior design student and after school baby sitter Melanie “Sissy” Calhoon laments her poor dating history until her part time boss Dr, Wilson sets Sissy up with a coworker, curt, regimental and direct Dr. Tyler Hart who just happens to be her brother’s best friend and her childhood crush.

[Carolyn Vandine West · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet story. If you are looking for steam, it’s not here. But there is plenty of good old fashioned romance. I love reading and listening to clean books.
The narrator has a little higher voice than most, but tolerable.
A blind date? Who does that anymore? But that’s what kicks this prequel to the series into gear. Tyler is busy doing the med school thing. Sissy is just plain fun. Put the two together and it’s a great story.
I am looking forward to the rest in the series.
I listened to this on the BookFunnel app.
I was lucky enough to get an audio as well as ebook copy of this one. Thank you to the author and BookFunnel

[Michaela (Reading in the Heartland) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. It’s my favorite trope. It was interesting to listen to a book with a female and male narrator for the different chapters, rather than different people speaking. I enjoyed the different aspects touched on here. It’s a great start to the series.

[Kris Horstman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming ♡

[Lissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Tyler & Sissy's grumpy, feisty, sweet ,caring, uncertain, loving, forgiving, swoony happily ever after!!

[Miranda Summerset · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5 STARS! Clean & lightweight romance featuring age gap & brothers bff trope. Super easy listen on audiobook. Good chemistry between characters & dealt with real issues.

[Anna |This Curly Girl Reads| · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this easy to read story about love and family. Sissy’s personality made me smile. Such an extrovert! The romance was an “opposites attract.” The title makes so much more sense when you read it :) It was very nicely written—and in one word: sweet.

[Donna Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story about Sissy and Tyler and how opposites attract. I enjoyed all the close friendships between both family and friends. This is a really sweet, clean romance.

[LaRae Galloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous book! Sissy and Tyler's personalities compliment each other so well! I love their one word games! Mandi did a fantastic job with this well written story!

[Pam Merrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blind date neither is sure they want. A surprise at the first meeting. Family complications. How will it end? Now's your chance to find out. I enjoyed my ARC and hope you enjoy this clean romance that isn't all smooth sailing.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tyler's bedside manner as a dr needs improving. Sissy has a happy, outgoing personality. But Tyler has a hangup about dating his best friends' sister. It's interesting how the relationship develops & what happens at the end. I received a free copy through Prolific Works. I enjoyed the story.

[Lynn Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Sissy and Tyler’s story! I loved Sissy’s character and personality from the beginning. She has such an upbeat look at life that was refreshing. Tyler has an uptight attitude with a not so good bedside manner with his patients. They knew each other growing up because Tyler is a friend of her older brother. They meet on a blind date and Sissy starts to work her magic on Tyler and gets him to loosen up throughout the book. I found myself laughing with Sissy in parts of the book as well as sadness when trouble strikes with her brother. I couldn’t put this book down! The characters were strong. There was enough suspense to want to keep reading. The descriptions in the book made you feel like you were part of the story.
I was a volunteer arc for this book for an honest review

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first experience with Mandi Blake's work, and I enjoyed it. The story was charming. The characters were delightful. The dual narrations by Lorana Hoopes and Jay Dyess were what lifted this audiobook into an outstanding category for me. Lorana Hoopes' narration style of the quintessential girl next door captured the core of the story. Jay Dyess' narration painted pictures and engendered emotions which made me feel as if I was experiencing what the characters were going through. Jay Dyess is a gifted storyteller and I look for audiobooks narrated by him. I was gifted this audiobook and I voluntarily posted this review.

[Denyse Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a lovely book. Tyler and Sissy’s relationship was a surprise for everyone. Sissy had had trouble with relationships but was a bright bubbly girl who always saw the bright side.Tyler was in his last year of training to be a Doctor and was complete opposite to Sissy. Through family disasters and people in church wanting to know what was going on, it is a great story seeing it unfold. Lovely to see Christian influence in this story too. Great to see back story of these two as they grew up in same town.

Well done. Keep up with your writing. I am encouraged to see there are quite a few authors who are Christian and not ashamed to see it through there books.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Sissy!!! Great storyline using texting and "just one word" in those texts to start their story. A romance between Sissy and Tyler (her brother's best friend). He is torn about who he should be loyal to. Great banter and of course angst. Absolutely loved the ending. I loved this book so much I listened to it on audible. Both narrators did an amazing job. It was a special treat to get to hear Jay Dyess - love his voice.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thousand Words is a sweet, heartwarming, brother's best friend romance. I love Tyler and Sissy. I especially enjoy the way Sissy pulls Tyler out of his shell "one word" at a time! It is great to have the back story on these characters who appear in the Unfailing Love series. Tyler knows that communication and honesty are important to Sissy but he still keeps her brother's secret. I enjoyed their journey to love and Tyler's improved bedside manner.

[Tracy Sylvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler is good at his job but his bedside manner needs work. Being a gruff doctor just isn't going to cut it. When his co-worker suggests a blind date with her friend Tyler is reluctant but goes. When Tyler shows up at the restaurant he realizes he knows Sissy and although he likes her, she is his best friends sister and off limits. I found this to be a well written, sweet and clean romance with incredible characters.

[Linda Ann Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the most enjoyable romances I’ve read. I love Mandi’s Christian stance in her books. So very refreshing. This is a best friend’s sister trope. She secretly had a crush on her brother’s best friend for years. Her friend/his boss(same person) set them up on a blind date. It almost never happened at all. There’s complications along the way, & issues with her brother. There’s prayer & forgiveness too. This was a fun & insightful read.

[Rhiannon Hinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What you'll find inside:
Brothers best friend
Opposites attract
Grumpy/sunshine -introvert/extrovert
Small Town
Christian characters and themes
Clean romance

What I loved:
"One word?" Texting conversations
Sissy's willingness to forgive and grow
Tyler's stoic quietness
The Proposal

Triggers:
Alcoholic, drunk driving (only the driver is injured)

[Cindy McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story. I enjoyed listening to this story. Sissy and Tyler had a great story to tell and I feel that you will not regret listening to this story.

The narrators did a wonderful job with narrating their portions.

I was provided a copy.