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An Orphan's Hope
He trusts her with his new daughter.
But his wounded heart is another matter…
Twice left at the altar, preacher Jase Armstrong avoids commitment at all costs—until he inherits his cousin’s three-day-old baby. Pushing him further out of his comfort zone is Erin Tucker, the nurse for his live-in octogenarian boss, and her lessons on caring for an infant. But can Jase open his heart enough to see the family forming around him?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
But his wounded heart is another matter…
Twice left at the altar, preacher Jase Armstrong avoids commitment at all costs—until he inherits his cousin’s three-day-old baby. Pushing him further out of his comfort zone is Erin Tucker, the nurse for his live-in octogenarian boss, and her lessons on caring for an infant. But can Jase open his heart enough to see the family forming around him?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
- GenresLove InspiredHarlequin
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published January 25, 2022
About the author
Christina Miller
12 books18 followersChristina Miller writes inspirational romance filled with faith, family, and small-town charm. A longtime lover of history, jazz, and small-town life, she delights in creating stories about flawed people finding grace, second chances, and happily-ever-afters.
When she’s not writing, she can be found reading vintage novels, playing piano at church, or walking country roads near her home. She’ll probably have a cup of hot herbal tea close at hand—along with a notebook full of new story ideas.
When she’s not writing, she can be found reading vintage novels, playing piano at church, or walking country roads near her home. She’ll probably have a cup of hot herbal tea close at hand—along with a notebook full of new story ideas.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 25, 2022
"The only way Jase could get a woman to the altar was by marrying her to another man."
Bwahahaha! Best first line ever!!! But it tugged at my heart too because poor Jase, to be left at the altar twice! No surprise that he is wary of love. Luckily he has some great friends who aren't above conniving on his behalf, like octogenarian Miss Franny. :-) Who is also his boss, 'cause Jase is a wedding chapel preacher which is ironic given his history.
As if life wasn't complicated enough, he suddenly finds himself the instant guardian of a three-day-old baby and there's no doubt he's out of his element. He has no choice but to accept the help and guidance of Miss Franny's live-in nurse, who he is also attracted to.
Remember when I said Jase was wary of love? Well, so is Erin -- if the prospective beau is a preacher! Oy -- these two are definitely not meant for each other...if only Miss Franny and her meddlesome friend Miss Eugenie understood that! :-)
Be prepared for laughter and drama and a cast of characters who will work their way into your heart. I read this book in one sitting because it was just too good to put down!
Bwahahaha! Best first line ever!!! But it tugged at my heart too because poor Jase, to be left at the altar twice! No surprise that he is wary of love. Luckily he has some great friends who aren't above conniving on his behalf, like octogenarian Miss Franny. :-) Who is also his boss, 'cause Jase is a wedding chapel preacher which is ironic given his history.
As if life wasn't complicated enough, he suddenly finds himself the instant guardian of a three-day-old baby and there's no doubt he's out of his element. He has no choice but to accept the help and guidance of Miss Franny's live-in nurse, who he is also attracted to.
Remember when I said Jase was wary of love? Well, so is Erin -- if the prospective beau is a preacher! Oy -- these two are definitely not meant for each other...if only Miss Franny and her meddlesome friend Miss Eugenie understood that! :-)
Be prepared for laughter and drama and a cast of characters who will work their way into your heart. I read this book in one sitting because it was just too good to put down!
January 19, 2022
Thank you in advance to the author, Christina Miller, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
While it doesn’t state it on the back of the book, this is the second book in the author’s Natchez series. The first being Finding His Family which I was lucky enough to read.
It would probably be a good idea to read the first book to meet one of the couples mentioned in this one – Abe and Rosemary, along with their adorable daughter Georgia.
Returning Characters from Finding his Family:
👣 Abe Armstrong – Jase’s Brother
👣 Rosemary Armstrong – Abe’s wife
👣 Georgia Armstrong – Jase and Rosemary’s daughter; Jase’s niece
👣 Judge Williams – Rosemary’s father
👣 Eugenia – Rosemary’s grandmother
New Characters:
👣 Jase Armstrong – preacher and Abe’s brother
👣 Erin Rucker – private nurse and Danielle’s bridesmaid
👣 Fannie – Jase’s boss and friend of Eugenia
👣 Danielle – a friend of Erin’s and runaway bride
👣 Robert – Danielle’s left-at-the-altar groom
👣 Courtney – Deceased cousin of Jase and Bella’s mom
👣 Bella – Courtney’s baby
👣 Darnell – young man that is in Jase’s youth group
👣 Chance – immediately takes to baby Bella
👣 Kiara – one of the girls from the youth group, gets close to Erin
Among others that I probably forgot to list.
There are mentions of drug use, drug addiction, and drug overdose. This might be sensitive to some readers.
Since the title has “orphan” in it, that obviously means the baby doesn’t have any parents. Which, right off – for me – is pretty sad. The manner in which the mom is killed off is tragic. But, the cover is absolutely adorable.
The premise of a twice left-at-the-altar preacher is both tragic and in some respects a bit funny. And, of course it is that “left-at-the-altar” moment that introduces Erin and Jase.
The first line shouldn’t have made me laugh as much as it did …
“The only way Jase could get a woman down the aisle was by marrying her to another man.”
I’m sure weddings are expensive, stressful, and SUPPOSED to be happy. Seeing a bride run off is not as funny as it seems, despite an interesting comedy from 1977 – Smokey and the Bandit.
Thus, when Danielle – Erin’s friend and bride – runs off, there goes Jase seeing it happen again. But, at least it isn’t him. I had to feel for him when he didn’t know what to do with Robert, the intended groom. Silently he’s thinking “Trust me. It’s useless, man. But ago ahead and try.” As a preacher, that seemed a bit negative, yet realistic.
Fannie, Jase’s boss, takes a “spell” and ends up in the hospital. As Erin is a private nurse that is used to caring for her clients in their own homes, it turns into a perfect temporary gig. That is until Jase gets bad news – his cousin, Courtney, was killed in an accident and she left her newborn (Bella) to him.
Right away Erin not only has to care for Miss Fannie, but help Jase navigate instant fatherhood. And, as Erin tells him, “the moment you carry the baby out of the hospital, your life will never be the same.” For Jase, it isn’t that is for certain. And, he’s afraid of failing.
But, Erin has her reservations. It seems her father was a preacher and chose the ministry work over his daughter. Her fiancé? The same. Still, she can’t seem to abandon Jase who desperately needs her help.
Of course, some women think Jase needs a “solution” wife. But, he isn’t so sure one exists. She will, after his two disasters, need to feel called to ministry. One of his engagements ended the same day as Erin ended hers to a famous football player.
On the side, Erin is still in touch with Danielle who left her dress on the side of the road. (Really? She couldn’t have donated it to a charity store??).
Danielle does end up some place Erin wants to be, or as she comes to realize, maybe she doesn’t. Jase sees something in Erin, especially as she works with the kids, that perhaps Erin might be called to do the work she wants to run from. And, Erin is beginning to find something in Rosewood that she hasn’t found anywhere else.
This isn’t entirely too sad. There are elements of humor and feel hood moments throughout from both Jase and Erin’s POVs. For one, poor Jase is trying to find a place in public to change the baby. He notes only the women’s bathroom has a changing table. In addition, Sister Myra came in to help. Her “Y’all get out. Pastor Jase needs the bathroom” is definitely a laugh-out-loud moment. Watching him try to navigate learning to care for Bella is both endearing and sad.
I love how Miller pointed out about adopted newborns and bonding being important and not to pass the baby around too much. It was very interesting and informative. Another interesting bit was Erin wondering if Bella was missing her mom or confused by Erin’s voice despite how young the newborn was when Courtney was killed.
There are also lessons, especially about jumping to conclusions and our own prejudices. There is a moment in this story where Jase is at a hospital, and Erin runs into some major trouble. She doesn’t wait to learn why Jase isn’t at the church. But, once she is told, she understands and perhaps would’ve suggested he go. It puts her own experiences into perspective.
In addition to being sad, informative, sometimes humorous, the author also dropped a slight suspenseful element in the story towards the end with Courtney’s mother, Rita. It was definitely a tense few pages, but left the end a bit too open for me. The fact this woman tried to commit a felony was unspeakable. I really wanted to know what happened to her as well as the “goon” she was with.
Readers also learn why Danielle left Robert at the altar. I felt they were a bit shallow. Robert is definitely better off. And, I have to admit, I wouldn’t mind not seeing her again. Since Danielle is in Japan, the best thing I can say for her – sayonara [goodbye forever; implies that you never want to see the person again]. Definitely don’t want to see her back at all so the word is 100% appropriate. And, that leaves yet another open ending there.
I really wanted to know, given the story ends “one year later”, how Robert was doing and where he was. I honestly felt so sorry for him. And, I REALLY hope he found someone a bit better for him.
So, I definitely want to read the next book in the series in case the author gives us a bit more information on those two stories.
Despite the minor issues I had, I did have a HUGE problem putting this down and read it in less than a 24-hour period. 20 years ago, that wouldn’t have been too rare. Today? I average reading a book of this length in under 48 hours.
The writing is evenly paced and takes place inside of a week though it did seem like much longer. Perhaps that is a result of how detailed and descriptive the writer was in bringing the setting and characters to life.
One thing is certain, I’m craving some sweet lemonade.
Love Inspired is a more Christian/faith-themed line distributed by Harlequin Books. As a result, they tend to have those elements in the books and as a central theme of the story. This one – for obvious reasons – has mentions of church attendance, ministry, references to God, along with mentions to scriptures.
While it doesn’t state it on the back of the book, this is the second book in the author’s Natchez series. The first being Finding His Family which I was lucky enough to read.
It would probably be a good idea to read the first book to meet one of the couples mentioned in this one – Abe and Rosemary, along with their adorable daughter Georgia.
Returning Characters from Finding his Family:
👣 Abe Armstrong – Jase’s Brother
👣 Rosemary Armstrong – Abe’s wife
👣 Georgia Armstrong – Jase and Rosemary’s daughter; Jase’s niece
👣 Judge Williams – Rosemary’s father
👣 Eugenia – Rosemary’s grandmother
New Characters:
👣 Jase Armstrong – preacher and Abe’s brother
👣 Erin Rucker – private nurse and Danielle’s bridesmaid
👣 Fannie – Jase’s boss and friend of Eugenia
👣 Danielle – a friend of Erin’s and runaway bride
👣 Robert – Danielle’s left-at-the-altar groom
👣 Courtney – Deceased cousin of Jase and Bella’s mom
👣 Bella – Courtney’s baby
👣 Darnell – young man that is in Jase’s youth group
👣 Chance – immediately takes to baby Bella
👣 Kiara – one of the girls from the youth group, gets close to Erin
Among others that I probably forgot to list.
There are mentions of drug use, drug addiction, and drug overdose. This might be sensitive to some readers.
Since the title has “orphan” in it, that obviously means the baby doesn’t have any parents. Which, right off – for me – is pretty sad. The manner in which the mom is killed off is tragic. But, the cover is absolutely adorable.
The premise of a twice left-at-the-altar preacher is both tragic and in some respects a bit funny. And, of course it is that “left-at-the-altar” moment that introduces Erin and Jase.
The first line shouldn’t have made me laugh as much as it did …
“The only way Jase could get a woman down the aisle was by marrying her to another man.”
I’m sure weddings are expensive, stressful, and SUPPOSED to be happy. Seeing a bride run off is not as funny as it seems, despite an interesting comedy from 1977 – Smokey and the Bandit.
Thus, when Danielle – Erin’s friend and bride – runs off, there goes Jase seeing it happen again. But, at least it isn’t him. I had to feel for him when he didn’t know what to do with Robert, the intended groom. Silently he’s thinking “Trust me. It’s useless, man. But ago ahead and try.” As a preacher, that seemed a bit negative, yet realistic.
Fannie, Jase’s boss, takes a “spell” and ends up in the hospital. As Erin is a private nurse that is used to caring for her clients in their own homes, it turns into a perfect temporary gig. That is until Jase gets bad news – his cousin, Courtney, was killed in an accident and she left her newborn (Bella) to him.
Right away Erin not only has to care for Miss Fannie, but help Jase navigate instant fatherhood. And, as Erin tells him, “the moment you carry the baby out of the hospital, your life will never be the same.” For Jase, it isn’t that is for certain. And, he’s afraid of failing.
But, Erin has her reservations. It seems her father was a preacher and chose the ministry work over his daughter. Her fiancé? The same. Still, she can’t seem to abandon Jase who desperately needs her help.
Of course, some women think Jase needs a “solution” wife. But, he isn’t so sure one exists. She will, after his two disasters, need to feel called to ministry. One of his engagements ended the same day as Erin ended hers to a famous football player.
On the side, Erin is still in touch with Danielle who left her dress on the side of the road. (Really? She couldn’t have donated it to a charity store??).
Danielle does end up some place Erin wants to be, or as she comes to realize, maybe she doesn’t. Jase sees something in Erin, especially as she works with the kids, that perhaps Erin might be called to do the work she wants to run from. And, Erin is beginning to find something in Rosewood that she hasn’t found anywhere else.
This isn’t entirely too sad. There are elements of humor and feel hood moments throughout from both Jase and Erin’s POVs. For one, poor Jase is trying to find a place in public to change the baby. He notes only the women’s bathroom has a changing table. In addition, Sister Myra came in to help. Her “Y’all get out. Pastor Jase needs the bathroom” is definitely a laugh-out-loud moment. Watching him try to navigate learning to care for Bella is both endearing and sad.
I love how Miller pointed out about adopted newborns and bonding being important and not to pass the baby around too much. It was very interesting and informative. Another interesting bit was Erin wondering if Bella was missing her mom or confused by Erin’s voice despite how young the newborn was when Courtney was killed.
There are also lessons, especially about jumping to conclusions and our own prejudices. There is a moment in this story where Jase is at a hospital, and Erin runs into some major trouble. She doesn’t wait to learn why Jase isn’t at the church. But, once she is told, she understands and perhaps would’ve suggested he go. It puts her own experiences into perspective.
In addition to being sad, informative, sometimes humorous, the author also dropped a slight suspenseful element in the story towards the end with Courtney’s mother, Rita. It was definitely a tense few pages, but left the end a bit too open for me. The fact this woman tried to commit a felony was unspeakable. I really wanted to know what happened to her as well as the “goon” she was with.
Readers also learn why Danielle left Robert at the altar. I felt they were a bit shallow. Robert is definitely better off. And, I have to admit, I wouldn’t mind not seeing her again. Since Danielle is in Japan, the best thing I can say for her – sayonara [goodbye forever; implies that you never want to see the person again]. Definitely don’t want to see her back at all so the word is 100% appropriate. And, that leaves yet another open ending there.
I really wanted to know, given the story ends “one year later”, how Robert was doing and where he was. I honestly felt so sorry for him. And, I REALLY hope he found someone a bit better for him.
So, I definitely want to read the next book in the series in case the author gives us a bit more information on those two stories.
Despite the minor issues I had, I did have a HUGE problem putting this down and read it in less than a 24-hour period. 20 years ago, that wouldn’t have been too rare. Today? I average reading a book of this length in under 48 hours.
The writing is evenly paced and takes place inside of a week though it did seem like much longer. Perhaps that is a result of how detailed and descriptive the writer was in bringing the setting and characters to life.
One thing is certain, I’m craving some sweet lemonade.
Love Inspired is a more Christian/faith-themed line distributed by Harlequin Books. As a result, they tend to have those elements in the books and as a central theme of the story. This one – for obvious reasons – has mentions of church attendance, ministry, references to God, along with mentions to scriptures.
September 16, 2022
Jase was sure there was a mistake. A bachelor getting custody of a 3-day old baby? Jase wasn't just scared of his new job. He was terrified! He didn't have a clue how to take care of a baby. He thanked the Lord for Erin who was living with them as a nurse for his elderly boss. But only for two weeks. He had a lot to learn from her in a short time.
Added to his terror were the feelings he was having for Erin. Love is a good thing. Right? Not when you've been left at the alter - twice.
Turned out, with some guidance and help from his aunt, being a father was doable. But risking falling in love again - not so much.
This is the perfect book for fans of Christian romance.
Added to his terror were the feelings he was having for Erin. Love is a good thing. Right? Not when you've been left at the alter - twice.
Turned out, with some guidance and help from his aunt, being a father was doable. But risking falling in love again - not so much.
This is the perfect book for fans of Christian romance.
February 18, 2022
An Orphan’s Hope by Christina Miller was a great second book in her Natchez series (you DO NOT have to read the first book in order to read this one). I really enjoyed her style of writing in the first book (Finding His Family) and was glad to see she would be continuing the series and characters’ lives.
The main characters of this book, Jase and Erin were interesting and well developed for such a short story. Their interactions seemed realistic (As much as you can in a whirl wind second chance romance 😊) and I loved the focus of the orphaned baby.
I thought that Christina Miller did a wonderful job showing the struggles that a single male would have when thrust into a role he had never experienced before. She also did an excellent job interweaving some good morals into the story.
Very Enjoyable. 4 Stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
The main characters of this book, Jase and Erin were interesting and well developed for such a short story. Their interactions seemed realistic (As much as you can in a whirl wind second chance romance 😊) and I loved the focus of the orphaned baby.
I thought that Christina Miller did a wonderful job showing the struggles that a single male would have when thrust into a role he had never experienced before. She also did an excellent job interweaving some good morals into the story.
Very Enjoyable. 4 Stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
January 21, 2022
This was a very sweet story and although it is technically the second book in a series, it is easily read as a stand alone novel.
I thought the author did a great job of showing what life was like as a youth pastor. Jase really had a heart for the kids he worked with and his open home and willingness to help them through hard situations seemed spot on.
His feelings of fear and inadequacy about how to take care of baby Bella also seemed very authentic. He had no time to prepare or learn about babies before he was suddenly a dad. It was sweet to see how he loved his cousin’s child as his own immediately, even as he was scared that he wouldn’t be able to be enough for her.
Erin was a fun character as well. She was a capable and caring nurse, yet had some things in her background that made her shy away from a man who was a preacher. It was fun to watch her grow and face some truths as the novel progressed. I liked these two characters together and it was fun to see them work toward their happily-ever-after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I thought the author did a great job of showing what life was like as a youth pastor. Jase really had a heart for the kids he worked with and his open home and willingness to help them through hard situations seemed spot on.
His feelings of fear and inadequacy about how to take care of baby Bella also seemed very authentic. He had no time to prepare or learn about babies before he was suddenly a dad. It was sweet to see how he loved his cousin’s child as his own immediately, even as he was scared that he wouldn’t be able to be enough for her.
Erin was a fun character as well. She was a capable and caring nurse, yet had some things in her background that made her shy away from a man who was a preacher. It was fun to watch her grow and face some truths as the novel progressed. I liked these two characters together and it was fun to see them work toward their happily-ever-after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
February 10, 2022
An Orphan's Hope had me smiling from beginning to end. Why? For starters, what's more attractive than a new father--an unexpected one at that--moving heaven and earth to care for his baby girl? And while I enjoyed the entire story, it was the ending that blew me away. I loved it!
January 19, 2022
3.5 stars
Yet another book that I am not sure how I feel about. I usually enjoy the Love Inspired books, they are quick and easy to read with low stress. However I am kind of on the fence about this one. An Orphan’s Hope is about a twice jilted pastor, the baby he becomes the guardian of, and a nurse who becomes a part of the family as she helps care for the baby.
Jace was such a kind guy, he really had a heart to help those in need. I enjoyed reading about him and I felt bad for because he had endured a lot. Although his adopted father left him, and he was jilted by two fiancés he still helped others and was not bitter. However he never expected to become the guardian of his cousin’s new born daughter, Belle. It was cute to read about him trying to care for Belle, learning how to take care of a baby and connecting with Erin. Although he was wary of love, Erin had a way of working his way into her heart as they cared for Belle.
I am not sure how I feel about Erin. She was kind and she loved those around her. She was a nurse and it was sweet to read about her helping out Jace. However she did not care to be in a relationship with a pastor because of her past. She felt as if ministry was always put before herself in regards to her family even when there was something important. I understand how Erin could feel that way, but I am also a PK. As a PK I know that my dad has things that he has to do for ministry because that is what called him to do, but he also tries his best to show me love. I feel as if Erin kind of put pastors in a bad light in that sense, but she had to learn to work through her feelings on that. I did enjoy reading about her connecting with Jace, Belle, and the kids that Jace worked with.
Jace and Erin will have to learn to work through their differences and their pasts. They had both been hurt by people close to them. They will have to learn to trust in God’s plan and will, knowing that God has to be the one to help them. I did enjoy the side characters, the teens were a lot of fun and so were the older ladies in this book.
I did end up enjoying An Orphan’s Hope and I would recommend it to those who enjoy sweet, light Christian reads.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Yet another book that I am not sure how I feel about. I usually enjoy the Love Inspired books, they are quick and easy to read with low stress. However I am kind of on the fence about this one. An Orphan’s Hope is about a twice jilted pastor, the baby he becomes the guardian of, and a nurse who becomes a part of the family as she helps care for the baby.
Jace was such a kind guy, he really had a heart to help those in need. I enjoyed reading about him and I felt bad for because he had endured a lot. Although his adopted father left him, and he was jilted by two fiancés he still helped others and was not bitter. However he never expected to become the guardian of his cousin’s new born daughter, Belle. It was cute to read about him trying to care for Belle, learning how to take care of a baby and connecting with Erin. Although he was wary of love, Erin had a way of working his way into her heart as they cared for Belle.
I am not sure how I feel about Erin. She was kind and she loved those around her. She was a nurse and it was sweet to read about her helping out Jace. However she did not care to be in a relationship with a pastor because of her past. She felt as if ministry was always put before herself in regards to her family even when there was something important. I understand how Erin could feel that way, but I am also a PK. As a PK I know that my dad has things that he has to do for ministry because that is what called him to do, but he also tries his best to show me love. I feel as if Erin kind of put pastors in a bad light in that sense, but she had to learn to work through her feelings on that. I did enjoy reading about her connecting with Jace, Belle, and the kids that Jace worked with.
Jace and Erin will have to learn to work through their differences and their pasts. They had both been hurt by people close to them. They will have to learn to trust in God’s plan and will, knowing that God has to be the one to help them. I did enjoy the side characters, the teens were a lot of fun and so were the older ladies in this book.
I did end up enjoying An Orphan’s Hope and I would recommend it to those who enjoy sweet, light Christian reads.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
January 22, 2022
A unique story with memorable characters . . .
This is the second story in the Love Inspired Inspirational Romance imprint that I have read by this talented author. The first book was set in the same location and featured many of the same characters which I enjoyed in the first book. The author does a fine job of cluing readers in to what happened in the first book, 'Finding His Family', so this story can be enjoyed by new readers as well.
Jase Armstrong is a youth pastor at his small hometown church in Mississippi. He has survived several personal traumas—losses—and he has matured in his faith and in his career as he has healed. However, he has baggage—lots of it. He truly wants to move on in his life. His problem is he doesn't know how to get over the past and look forward to the future.
Erin Tucker, the home nurse for his octogenarian boss, Miss Fannie, has been paralyzed by some crises in her own life. She is trying to run from hurtful relationships that have traumatized her in the past.
I enjoyed this story and the way in which the two main characters and a few of the supporting characters made significant progress in their personal relationships with God and other people. These people grew in so many ways by supporting and encouraging each other, discussing their faith, and not turning their backs on hard times.
Finally, I appreciated the author's use of humor at the appropriate times to lighten the mood of what the characters were experiencing. One of my favorite scenes was the 'dirty diaper' scene at the church. I haven't laughed that hard while reading a book in a while. The grand ladies of the town, Miss Fannie and Miss Eugenia, offered up a regular dose of humor with their matchmaking antics.
Highly-recommended to fans of Christian/clean romance, Christian/clean fiction, and small-town fiction.
I received a paperback copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my opinions and thoughts shared here are solely my own.
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This is the second story in the Love Inspired Inspirational Romance imprint that I have read by this talented author. The first book was set in the same location and featured many of the same characters which I enjoyed in the first book. The author does a fine job of cluing readers in to what happened in the first book, 'Finding His Family', so this story can be enjoyed by new readers as well.
Jase Armstrong is a youth pastor at his small hometown church in Mississippi. He has survived several personal traumas—losses—and he has matured in his faith and in his career as he has healed. However, he has baggage—lots of it. He truly wants to move on in his life. His problem is he doesn't know how to get over the past and look forward to the future.
Erin Tucker, the home nurse for his octogenarian boss, Miss Fannie, has been paralyzed by some crises in her own life. She is trying to run from hurtful relationships that have traumatized her in the past.
I enjoyed this story and the way in which the two main characters and a few of the supporting characters made significant progress in their personal relationships with God and other people. These people grew in so many ways by supporting and encouraging each other, discussing their faith, and not turning their backs on hard times.
Finally, I appreciated the author's use of humor at the appropriate times to lighten the mood of what the characters were experiencing. One of my favorite scenes was the 'dirty diaper' scene at the church. I haven't laughed that hard while reading a book in a while. The grand ladies of the town, Miss Fannie and Miss Eugenia, offered up a regular dose of humor with their matchmaking antics.
Highly-recommended to fans of Christian/clean romance, Christian/clean fiction, and small-town fiction.
I received a paperback copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my opinions and thoughts shared here are solely my own.
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January 27, 2022
After Jase Armstrong gets left at the alter twice, he has given up hope on getting married. Maybe it is not in God’s plan for him to marry. Jase starts to rethink that thought after Erin Tucker shows up and volunteers to be a live in nurse for the elderly woman he lives with. Suddenly everything changes when he inherits his cousin’s newborn baby. He struggles between learning how to take care of a child, managing a church and dealing with his growing feelings for Erin. Read An Orphan’s Hope to see what Jase does. Does he give up the ministry, marry Erin and make a family? Or push those he loves away to become closer to the ministry?
January 19, 2022
Left at the alter twice, Pastor Jase Armstrong has sworn off love. Plus he already has enough to handle working for Miss Fannie at her Rosewood wedding venue, as well as his local church. But when a tragedy leaves him the guardian of a newborn baby girl, he is glad for the help of his bosses' live-in nurse Erin Tucker. Can a Erin and Jase let go of past heartbreak to give love a chance?
I loved revisiting familiar faces like the Armstrong brothers, Georgia, and matchmaking Eugenia. This book stands well on its own, but I definitely recommend going back for Abe's story if you get the chance. Jase has a full plate between his two jobs, and the addition of a newborn. He has a big heart for others, especially the young men in his youth group.
Erin is the right person at the right time, she fits right in with Jase's family and friends. She has her own heartaches, and Jase is the last person she could ever consider leaving her exciting job for. She is a competent nurse, and has a heart for people.
A sweet romance, heartwarming with wonderful characters, I liked that faith was integrated naturally as part of their lives and their growing friendship. An enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved revisiting familiar faces like the Armstrong brothers, Georgia, and matchmaking Eugenia. This book stands well on its own, but I definitely recommend going back for Abe's story if you get the chance. Jase has a full plate between his two jobs, and the addition of a newborn. He has a big heart for others, especially the young men in his youth group.
Erin is the right person at the right time, she fits right in with Jase's family and friends. She has her own heartaches, and Jase is the last person she could ever consider leaving her exciting job for. She is a competent nurse, and has a heart for people.
A sweet romance, heartwarming with wonderful characters, I liked that faith was integrated naturally as part of their lives and their growing friendship. An enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 19, 2022
If you love a heart-warming romance set in the Old South, you’ll want to read this Christian Romance. The short read tells the story of two young adults who have a lot of pain in their hearts. Jase and Erin both have a strong Christian background, but have deep hurts caused by those who should have shown them the most love.
Erin is a traveling nurse who has become accustomed to being a private nurse in Paris and dreams of more travel. But, is she just running away from the hurt she feels so deeply? Jase is a youth minister who has been left at the alter twice, by women who just couldn’t handle the calling of a pastor’s wife.
When the most unexpected happens, Jase’s cousin dies suddenly and leaves her newborn daughter to Jase to raise. He’s overwhelmed, especially with his “grandma” figure needing care at home. Erin is the perfect stand-in nurse to help Miss Fannie get back on her feet. She’s also able to help Jase learn how to care for a newborn. But, can she leave this romantic Southern home before she gives her heart away?
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Erin is a traveling nurse who has become accustomed to being a private nurse in Paris and dreams of more travel. But, is she just running away from the hurt she feels so deeply? Jase is a youth minister who has been left at the alter twice, by women who just couldn’t handle the calling of a pastor’s wife.
When the most unexpected happens, Jase’s cousin dies suddenly and leaves her newborn daughter to Jase to raise. He’s overwhelmed, especially with his “grandma” figure needing care at home. Erin is the perfect stand-in nurse to help Miss Fannie get back on her feet. She’s also able to help Jase learn how to care for a newborn. But, can she leave this romantic Southern home before she gives her heart away?
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 21, 2022
This is the second book I have read by Christina Miller. This story revolves around two main characters, Erin Tucker and Jase Armstrong. However, some of my favorite characters come from the family of secondary characters and these characters really seem like a family in this story. One of those characters that I love so much is Miss Fannie. Miss Fannie is being cared for by Erin. Jase also helps her out with different things. Both are living at Rosewood which is the house owned by Miss Fannie. She is such a sweet person. I find one of the best ways to decide if a book is good or not is whether characters like Miss Fannie are just as lovable as the main characters. This is definitely a book I would be happy to live in.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
January 18, 2022
I always enjoy a book set in the south, and you can’t get much more southern than Mississippi. Christina Miller invites readers to the (real-life) town of Natchez with a cast of memorable characters and a couple of sights in the area.
In An Orphan’s Hope, Erin and Jase are both guarding their hearts after rejection—different rejections but also a little the same—when they first meet. As they spend time together and with some of the people in the community, they come to admire each other.
Because this is a lightning-fast romance that goes from first meeting to love in a short span of time, it’s the relationships built with the teens, with the elderly ladies, and with little Bella that stole the show for me.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
In An Orphan’s Hope, Erin and Jase are both guarding their hearts after rejection—different rejections but also a little the same—when they first meet. As they spend time together and with some of the people in the community, they come to admire each other.
Because this is a lightning-fast romance that goes from first meeting to love in a short span of time, it’s the relationships built with the teens, with the elderly ladies, and with little Bella that stole the show for me.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this Love- Inspired Romance. I bought this at a local store and I voluntarily chose to review this clean story. I've given it a 5* rating. This was a little bit fun and had me chuckling a little here and there. Lots to get out of this story about not giving up and more. I want to read more of this author's work.
February 24, 2023
Check your brain at the door for this one. No, seriously.
Jase is 'the Natchez preacher' who was left at the altar TWICE, himself. Why, we don't know. Apparently he's good looking like a romantic movie actor, an excellent cook, devoted to family and friends, manager of his godmotherly friend's business, live-in help for an elderly woman who has nobody in the WHOLE, ENTIRE WORLD, drives a mustang, brother to the teens in the youth group, support to the church congregation... DANG, this guy sucks SOOOO BAAAAAAADDDDDD...!!! I can totally see why nobody wants him. Can't you????? (((O_o)))
He's officiating a wedding when the bride runs off (cue flashbacks in his wee mind). The bridesmaid runs after the bride to help her, then Miss Fannie who runs the wedding venue passes out and said bridesmaid sprints BACK to the wedding to assist the pastor with diagnosing her, then goes to the hospital with the preacher and Miss Fannie to meet his mama there. Because believable. And all of the twenty guests just mosey away, because author says the family and friends aren't actual characters who would jump up and 1) help the bride, 2) help the groom, 3) help the incapacitated elderly woman.
WHAT. THE. FARTS?!?!?
As irony, coincidence, fate, and bad writing would have it, the bridesmaid just *HAPPENS* to be a private nurse who's previous client just kicked the bucket in Paris, and she's between jobs... making it FORTUITIOUS that she's there when Miss Fannie needs a live-in nurse for two weeks. Mama and Jace and Miss Fanny all rope her into staying, naturally. Because (like in all badly written tripe) bridesmaid/nurse/leading lady doesn't have anyone in the WHOLE WORLD to go home to.
The decision is barely taken out of her hands when *GASP!!!!* Oh, no!! EGADS!!! Jase's favoritest cousin in the entirest, whole WORLD gives birth to a baby in some other hospital somewhere else. The baby is of course out of wedlock with a disreputable scoundrel and this young cousin (Courtney) has made a will (!!!!!) not only naming Jase as guardian of her child, but requesting that he adopt the baby. AND NOW COURTNEY'S CONVENIENTLY D.E.A.D.!!!! Oh, holy night!!!!
Okay, first? This all coming down within something like TWENTY MINUTES of the beginning of the book is absolutely ridiculous. SECOND, I'm pretty sure twenty-something, shacked-up and stupid Courtney did NOT take the time to make up a will before the child's birth stipulating that her bachelor cousin would adopt her child three days after the birth, when she knew she would be killed. Not when Mama is a freakin' NURSE, and experience in parenting. Or how about *HER* mother? Or is cousin Courtney also all alone in the WHOLE ENTIRE WORLD, too?
C.O.N.T.R.I.V.E.D. This is so badly contrived and slapped together like a pile of index cards desperately in need of straightening and sorting, I can't even put WORDS to it. It's. Just. AWFUL.
And then Jase is all, "I can't take care of a baby! What do I do when it cries?!?!" To which Bridesmaid/private nurse/leading lady says, "That's why you take someone with you to ride in the back seat with the baby!"
BIGGEST PEEVE OF MY ENTIRE 22 YEARS OF PARENTING
You just lost me. I carried SIX BABIES in this womb, and never in my L.I.F.E. rode in the back seat of a freakin' car to helicopter parent the snot out of *any* of my infants, and this whole trend of bad relationshipping just p.i.x.x.x.e.s. m.e. o.f.f. Believe it or not, women have had babies for DECADES and didn't have to ride in the back freakin' seat of a car with them.
AND ALL OF THIS BY ONLY PAGE 36!!!!!
Good gravy, it's rushed, stupid, badly written, lacking in descriptive writing, and just plain awful. I really wish these christian authors would sit down and THINK THROUGH a plot, execute it with actual descriptive, audience-capturing writing, and make the thing tolerable enough to read. It's just ridiculous contrivance after contrivance, and NONE of it jives. At all. I swear, it was all I could do not to chuck it at a wall.
I'd taken a two-month break from 'Love, Inspired' because I was so jaded about the writing. I'm really sorry I came back to them, again. And isn't that a sad statement?!
Jase is 'the Natchez preacher' who was left at the altar TWICE, himself. Why, we don't know. Apparently he's good looking like a romantic movie actor, an excellent cook, devoted to family and friends, manager of his godmotherly friend's business, live-in help for an elderly woman who has nobody in the WHOLE, ENTIRE WORLD, drives a mustang, brother to the teens in the youth group, support to the church congregation... DANG, this guy sucks SOOOO BAAAAAAADDDDDD...!!! I can totally see why nobody wants him. Can't you????? (((O_o)))
He's officiating a wedding when the bride runs off (cue flashbacks in his wee mind). The bridesmaid runs after the bride to help her, then Miss Fannie who runs the wedding venue passes out and said bridesmaid sprints BACK to the wedding to assist the pastor with diagnosing her, then goes to the hospital with the preacher and Miss Fannie to meet his mama there. Because believable. And all of the twenty guests just mosey away, because author says the family and friends aren't actual characters who would jump up and 1) help the bride, 2) help the groom, 3) help the incapacitated elderly woman.
WHAT. THE. FARTS?!?!?
As irony, coincidence, fate, and bad writing would have it, the bridesmaid just *HAPPENS* to be a private nurse who's previous client just kicked the bucket in Paris, and she's between jobs... making it FORTUITIOUS that she's there when Miss Fannie needs a live-in nurse for two weeks. Mama and Jace and Miss Fanny all rope her into staying, naturally. Because (like in all badly written tripe) bridesmaid/nurse/leading lady doesn't have anyone in the WHOLE WORLD to go home to.
The decision is barely taken out of her hands when *GASP!!!!* Oh, no!! EGADS!!! Jase's favoritest cousin in the entirest, whole WORLD gives birth to a baby in some other hospital somewhere else. The baby is of course out of wedlock with a disreputable scoundrel and this young cousin (Courtney) has made a will (!!!!!) not only naming Jase as guardian of her child, but requesting that he adopt the baby. AND NOW COURTNEY'S CONVENIENTLY D.E.A.D.!!!! Oh, holy night!!!!
Okay, first? This all coming down within something like TWENTY MINUTES of the beginning of the book is absolutely ridiculous. SECOND, I'm pretty sure twenty-something, shacked-up and stupid Courtney did NOT take the time to make up a will before the child's birth stipulating that her bachelor cousin would adopt her child three days after the birth, when she knew she would be killed. Not when Mama is a freakin' NURSE, and experience in parenting. Or how about *HER* mother? Or is cousin Courtney also all alone in the WHOLE ENTIRE WORLD, too?
C.O.N.T.R.I.V.E.D. This is so badly contrived and slapped together like a pile of index cards desperately in need of straightening and sorting, I can't even put WORDS to it. It's. Just. AWFUL.
And then Jase is all, "I can't take care of a baby! What do I do when it cries?!?!" To which Bridesmaid/private nurse/leading lady says, "That's why you take someone with you to ride in the back seat with the baby!"
BIGGEST PEEVE OF MY ENTIRE 22 YEARS OF PARENTING
You just lost me. I carried SIX BABIES in this womb, and never in my L.I.F.E. rode in the back seat of a freakin' car to helicopter parent the snot out of *any* of my infants, and this whole trend of bad relationshipping just p.i.x.x.x.e.s. m.e. o.f.f. Believe it or not, women have had babies for DECADES and didn't have to ride in the back freakin' seat of a car with them.
AND ALL OF THIS BY ONLY PAGE 36!!!!!
Good gravy, it's rushed, stupid, badly written, lacking in descriptive writing, and just plain awful. I really wish these christian authors would sit down and THINK THROUGH a plot, execute it with actual descriptive, audience-capturing writing, and make the thing tolerable enough to read. It's just ridiculous contrivance after contrivance, and NONE of it jives. At all. I swear, it was all I could do not to chuck it at a wall.
I'd taken a two-month break from 'Love, Inspired' because I was so jaded about the writing. I'm really sorry I came back to them, again. And isn't that a sad statement?!
January 20, 2022
There is nothing really special about An Orphan’s Hope. It’s the typical friends to love troupe, with neither of the lead characters wanting love, and yet love finding them. Yet there was something that kept me reading, making me not want to put down this charming novel, though I knew what was going to happen.
Both Jase and Erin are absolute sweethearts. They both have incredibly caring spirits and are called to ministries that can be incredibly tough. When Jase, a youth pastor, is thrust into fatherhood after a heartbreaking incident my heart broke for him. Not only did he grieve but he also had to learn all the in’s and out’s of infant care, something that is not easy in and of itself, but to have no experience whatsoever makes it all the more overwhelming. But seeing him adapt to fatherhood amid such heartbreaking conditions is admirable, and seeing his relationship grow with Erin during this tumultuous time made it that much sweeter.
One part I enjoyed reading was all the little details that Jase finds out about parenting an infant. Infant care isn’t easy, especially if you’ve never been around babies, so I enjoyed reading the struggle, my mind going back seventeen years when I was a new mother, and remembering those moments fondly.
Jase and Erin have commonalities in their lives, which is remarkable, but it is because of these similarities and past experiences that they struggle to make their own feelings known. The ending is very sweet, albeit predictable, but satisfying nonetheless. I really hope to see these characters in the future, as they now own a piece of my heart.
Yes, there is nothing about An Orphan’s Hope that makes it stand out, except that it’s a wonderfully charming read with a lot of heart, lovable characters, and a welcome escape.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Both Jase and Erin are absolute sweethearts. They both have incredibly caring spirits and are called to ministries that can be incredibly tough. When Jase, a youth pastor, is thrust into fatherhood after a heartbreaking incident my heart broke for him. Not only did he grieve but he also had to learn all the in’s and out’s of infant care, something that is not easy in and of itself, but to have no experience whatsoever makes it all the more overwhelming. But seeing him adapt to fatherhood amid such heartbreaking conditions is admirable, and seeing his relationship grow with Erin during this tumultuous time made it that much sweeter.
One part I enjoyed reading was all the little details that Jase finds out about parenting an infant. Infant care isn’t easy, especially if you’ve never been around babies, so I enjoyed reading the struggle, my mind going back seventeen years when I was a new mother, and remembering those moments fondly.
Jase and Erin have commonalities in their lives, which is remarkable, but it is because of these similarities and past experiences that they struggle to make their own feelings known. The ending is very sweet, albeit predictable, but satisfying nonetheless. I really hope to see these characters in the future, as they now own a piece of my heart.
Yes, there is nothing about An Orphan’s Hope that makes it stand out, except that it’s a wonderfully charming read with a lot of heart, lovable characters, and a welcome escape.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
January 22, 2022
While this is really the second book in the Nachez series, it can be read as a standalone. I didn’t read the first one, but had no trouble following this one at all.
Main interests Jase and Erin are both searching for love, even if they won’t admit it. Lots of hurts from the past create hurdles to get over. But with God all things are possible!
The characters in this story are well written and enjoyable. I’d love to meet them, especially Fannie. She has a lot of wisdom and spunk. And of course who could resist baby Bella, who was unexpectedly thrust into Jase’s life.
While author Christina Miller’s story includes references to drugs, as well as how Bella became an orphan, it was handled gently. This is truly a heartwarming story with many opportunities to chuckle. And there’s an incredible moment of suspense that I didn’t see coming at all. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
A good book, I highly recommend it. And if you haven’t read book one, Finding His Family, I suggest doing so. I know I’m going to!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Main interests Jase and Erin are both searching for love, even if they won’t admit it. Lots of hurts from the past create hurdles to get over. But with God all things are possible!
The characters in this story are well written and enjoyable. I’d love to meet them, especially Fannie. She has a lot of wisdom and spunk. And of course who could resist baby Bella, who was unexpectedly thrust into Jase’s life.
While author Christina Miller’s story includes references to drugs, as well as how Bella became an orphan, it was handled gently. This is truly a heartwarming story with many opportunities to chuckle. And there’s an incredible moment of suspense that I didn’t see coming at all. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
A good book, I highly recommend it. And if you haven’t read book one, Finding His Family, I suggest doing so. I know I’m going to!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
December 28, 2024
A sweet read focusing around a bachelor being given his cousin’s three day old infant. Jase knew he wasn’t qualified after being left at the altar twice plus he had his youth ministry to focus on. Erin was attending the wedding when the bride ran away. Her private nursing skill came in handy when the owner of the wedding venue collapse. Turn of events brought Erin to remain at Rosewood. How will Jase and Erin release their painful past to find new beginnings?
January 10, 2024
This was a feel-good story that had me cheering on several of the characters. Despite knowing the story was going to have a happy ending I could not wait to read about how the ending would end with everything resolved. Great writing to demonstrate grace, mercy, and forgiveness that takes place through past hurts and trauma.
February 24, 2022
I did bot like this book as much as I liked the book about Jase's brother Abe. I did not like the suspense in the story.
March 9, 2022
This was a great read addressing the many stumbling blocks of Pastor ing !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2022
Wonderful book
July 12, 2023
sweet
June 5, 2024
Really enjoyed this book.
March 8, 2022
One of Christy’s best yet. Loved it!
May 8, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. From the start, Jace's world is turned upside down when he finds out he has a newborn that has been placed in his care and he has to take care of her. Erin is a travel nurse who went for a friend's wedding and ends up staying back because of her nursing experience and helps Jace take care of the baby.
Both of them definitely weren't looking for love. It wasn't part of the plan but it crept up on them so quickly it was actually beautiful to see. Jace had been through a lot from childhood, but still went out of his way to help others, bonding with the child and trying to adapt to fatherhood quickly. I loved how Erin was willing to help him navigate these new experiences. She had also been hurt before and it made her wary of getting into a relationship especially with someone who was in ministry like Jace. It takes sometime but finally it works out. They learn to trust God and not live in fear of what the outcomes may be.
This is beautiful, faith filled and quick read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine
Both of them definitely weren't looking for love. It wasn't part of the plan but it crept up on them so quickly it was actually beautiful to see. Jace had been through a lot from childhood, but still went out of his way to help others, bonding with the child and trying to adapt to fatherhood quickly. I loved how Erin was willing to help him navigate these new experiences. She had also been hurt before and it made her wary of getting into a relationship especially with someone who was in ministry like Jace. It takes sometime but finally it works out. They learn to trust God and not live in fear of what the outcomes may be.
This is beautiful, faith filled and quick read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustRead tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine
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