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New England Inspirations #2
Carry Me Home
As a nurse who has experienced the pain of personal loss, Amanda strives to provide flawless medical care to the neediest of patients. But when her life starts crumbling and she meets her most stubborn patient yet, will sheer determination be enough to see her through? Or should she start wishing for a miracle from a God she doesn't believe in?
Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2014
136 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Howard
45 books130 followersValerie Howard
Contemporary Women's Christian Fiction
"Real women. Tough issues. Powerful God."
Valerie's goal in writing is to bring people closer to Jesus one chapter at a time.
Valerie has been writing stories since she was in second grade when she wrote "The Mystery of the Missing Crayon." She gave up writing mysteries soon after and now concentrates on real-life stories that tackle tough issues such as homelessness, unplanned pregnancy, family tragedy, childhood trauma, foster care, poverty, and terminal cancer. All of her books are filled with the hope and love of Christ and are uplifting and feel-good with happy, though sometimes tearful, endings as her characters overcome their obstacles with God at their side. She also writes biblical non-fiction, indie author non-fiction, children's books, allegorical fiction, and small church Christmas plays. (She's a little obsessed with writing.)
Valerie is a fan of summer, warmth, and flip-flips, so she often wonders why she lives in Maine where she is frozen for the better half of the year. But her amazing husband and adorable sons live there with her, so it's not all bad. She graduated from Bible College with a degree in Bible and Missions a long, long time ago in a state far, far away.
Contemporary Women's Christian Fiction
"Real women. Tough issues. Powerful God."
Valerie's goal in writing is to bring people closer to Jesus one chapter at a time.
Valerie has been writing stories since she was in second grade when she wrote "The Mystery of the Missing Crayon." She gave up writing mysteries soon after and now concentrates on real-life stories that tackle tough issues such as homelessness, unplanned pregnancy, family tragedy, childhood trauma, foster care, poverty, and terminal cancer. All of her books are filled with the hope and love of Christ and are uplifting and feel-good with happy, though sometimes tearful, endings as her characters overcome their obstacles with God at their side. She also writes biblical non-fiction, indie author non-fiction, children's books, allegorical fiction, and small church Christmas plays. (She's a little obsessed with writing.)
Valerie is a fan of summer, warmth, and flip-flips, so she often wonders why she lives in Maine where she is frozen for the better half of the year. But her amazing husband and adorable sons live there with her, so it's not all bad. She graduated from Bible College with a degree in Bible and Missions a long, long time ago in a state far, far away.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 22, 2019
Really not liking the fact that the main character starts the story off living with her boyfriend. (Actually, I had assumed he was her husband until I was informed otherwise.) Guessing she's not a Christian, but it still makes me uncomfortable enough that I need to DNF.
May 10, 2018
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up (mentions of pregnancy out of wedlock and minor medical detail)
Best for Ages: 15-25
I was very impressed by this story. I’ve read some stories where authors have tried to address some of the same issues as are found within this story but come across as flat, dull, or worse – disingenuous. This story was none of those things.
Let me start off with my only complaint. As someone who has a sibling who is a nurse and who has known quite a few nurses, I’ve never known them not to be able to find work. Granted, I’ve had people to tell me they can’t find work for what they are worth (don’t get me started on that subject), but there is always work. Also, if medical personnel show up on sight and there is a nurse that has been taking care of the person, they would want to hear what that nurse has to say. Now, that was my one and only issue with the story. Moving on…
Amanda is in a bad spot. She is out of a job, lost her longtime boyfriend, and with it her place to live. She takes a job working as a home health aide with a very grumpy patient. She has to fight to help him, keep her job, and deal with the curve balls life keeps throwing at her.
The author did a wonderful job of not sugarcoating anything. She presented a tough set of circumstances for which there were no easy answers. She was able to present this all in a thoughtful, gentle way. Never did the book feel crass or make me like anything was done just to shock the reader. Yet, as I said, nothing was glossed over and made easy.
Each character was brought to life, had their own personality, and added to the story. I felt as if I had met each one and they could be living in my town.
I would recommend this book to those who like contemporary books that deal with real issues and provide thoughtful answers.
Best for Ages: 15-25
I was very impressed by this story. I’ve read some stories where authors have tried to address some of the same issues as are found within this story but come across as flat, dull, or worse – disingenuous. This story was none of those things.
Let me start off with my only complaint. As someone who has a sibling who is a nurse and who has known quite a few nurses, I’ve never known them not to be able to find work. Granted, I’ve had people to tell me they can’t find work for what they are worth (don’t get me started on that subject), but there is always work. Also, if medical personnel show up on sight and there is a nurse that has been taking care of the person, they would want to hear what that nurse has to say. Now, that was my one and only issue with the story. Moving on…
Amanda is in a bad spot. She is out of a job, lost her longtime boyfriend, and with it her place to live. She takes a job working as a home health aide with a very grumpy patient. She has to fight to help him, keep her job, and deal with the curve balls life keeps throwing at her.
The author did a wonderful job of not sugarcoating anything. She presented a tough set of circumstances for which there were no easy answers. She was able to present this all in a thoughtful, gentle way. Never did the book feel crass or make me like anything was done just to shock the reader. Yet, as I said, nothing was glossed over and made easy.
Each character was brought to life, had their own personality, and added to the story. I felt as if I had met each one and they could be living in my town.
I would recommend this book to those who like contemporary books that deal with real issues and provide thoughtful answers.
tbr-1
July 25, 2022*$0.99 ON AMAZON
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January 12, 2021
Enjoyed this story of working with the elderly and finding purpose.
February 13, 2020
Interesting story that I really enjoyed listening to. For most of the story, the main character is not a Christian and she has quite the journey through difficulties in her personal and professional life. It is also the story of an older man who believes that he no longer has any use in this world, only to discover that God still has much to use him for.
I enjoyed this book and listened to the audio version. The narrator did a pretty good job with reading the story and I liked listening to it. Toward the latter part of the book, there were a few times that the narrator read the lines using the wrong "voice", but that didn't happen too much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this book and listened to the audio version. The narrator did a pretty good job with reading the story and I liked listening to it. Toward the latter part of the book, there were a few times that the narrator read the lines using the wrong "voice", but that didn't happen too much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 13, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from this author! The story was quite slow to start and the action didn't take place until about halfway through, but it was definitely worth it in the end. Such a lovely story!
May 25, 2015
A feel-good read and we all need one of those now and then. Liked the two main characters, didn't find the Christian message too heavy, and seeing the book updates at least twice before I got around to reading it tells me the author is serious about her craft. Still a few grammar and punctuation edits still needed but overall story was good. Did feel that last few chapters dealing Amanda's major character arc didn't quite flow as smoothly as rest of the book. A bit rushed perhaps??? As if some major cuts were done but the stitching to put the remaining bits back together got a bit uneven. But writer definitely has potential and her work will only get better.
November 15, 2014
This is a captivating story with an inspirational message. It takes you right into a nurse's heart and desire to help her patients. Amanda is a relatable, well-crafted character. It takes a loving and caring individual to be a nurse. It's a wonderful tribute to caregivers everywhere and an excellent journey to finding hope and faith.
December 26, 2019
I knew I would enjoy this book when I picked it up and saw that it was about a nurse, providing home care for elderly patients.
This was a precious story, and a wonderful installment in this series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters. Amanda was the quintessential nurse, going above and beyond in her duties of caring for her patients. And the lonely and crotchety Hector was the most adorable old man ever. I loved his independant streak that he exhibited!
The subject of abortion being murder was a theme that I am quite passionate about, and I was delighted with the way the subject of unwed pregnancy, and a possible abortion, was written about. The way the pastor got involved was wonderful, and I firmly believe we need more pastors like that!
The start of the book did find Amanda and her long-time boyfriend Bill living together. While nothing is detailed, there are mentions of "our room" and the such.
Because of content (unwed pregnancy, living with a boyfriend, and abortion), I would recommend this for older -- 15+ readers.
This was a precious story, and a wonderful installment in this series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters. Amanda was the quintessential nurse, going above and beyond in her duties of caring for her patients. And the lonely and crotchety Hector was the most adorable old man ever. I loved his independant streak that he exhibited!
The subject of abortion being murder was a theme that I am quite passionate about, and I was delighted with the way the subject of unwed pregnancy, and a possible abortion, was written about. The way the pastor got involved was wonderful, and I firmly believe we need more pastors like that!
The start of the book did find Amanda and her long-time boyfriend Bill living together. While nothing is detailed, there are mentions of "our room" and the such.
Because of content (unwed pregnancy, living with a boyfriend, and abortion), I would recommend this for older -- 15+ readers.
December 26, 2019
Amanda thought she had her life figured out, until her boyfriend of 5 years breaks up with her, she loses her job, and she is forced to move out of her apartment and rebuild her life.
I definately enjoyed this story. While I did feel this story started off a little slow it did pick up the pace and capture my attention. I loved watching the relationship between Amanda and Hector blossom, I found their daily banter to be enjoyable and funny at times but I mostly enjoyed watching Amanda overcome all of the difficult life obstacles.
This is the first by book I have listened to from this author and it will not be my last. I would recommend this to my friends and family.
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook and I found the narrator did a great job.
I definately enjoyed this story. While I did feel this story started off a little slow it did pick up the pace and capture my attention. I loved watching the relationship between Amanda and Hector blossom, I found their daily banter to be enjoyable and funny at times but I mostly enjoyed watching Amanda overcome all of the difficult life obstacles.
This is the first by book I have listened to from this author and it will not be my last. I would recommend this to my friends and family.
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook and I found the narrator did a great job.
January 9, 2020
Carry Me Home by Valerie Howard
Amanda us a nurse, providing in home care to the elderly. Hector is a grumpy older man that really just wants to go “home” to be both his wife in heaven.
This story is beautifully crafted and takes Amanda from losing her significant other, to loosing her job due to the agency closing, to finding a misplaced ad in the paper leading her to taking care of Hector.
Amanda has been dealt some hard situations. This story shows that even through life’s difficult times and hard to handle people, God can still intervene.
Amanda us a nurse, providing in home care to the elderly. Hector is a grumpy older man that really just wants to go “home” to be both his wife in heaven.
This story is beautifully crafted and takes Amanda from losing her significant other, to loosing her job due to the agency closing, to finding a misplaced ad in the paper leading her to taking care of Hector.
Amanda has been dealt some hard situations. This story shows that even through life’s difficult times and hard to handle people, God can still intervene.
December 18, 2020
This book was awesome. Like over and over again. Definitely deals with a few more mature topics .
But it was seriously heart-wrenching in a lot of ways. Like I cried. Which doesn't actually happen that often.
You put a old, grumpy, and stubborn believer with a sweet, but very stubborn and unbelieving nurse. What could go wrong? :)
This story was so well done...and that ending!! That ending. You've just go to read it.
But it was seriously heart-wrenching in a lot of ways. Like I cried. Which doesn't actually happen that often.
You put a old, grumpy, and stubborn believer with a sweet, but very stubborn and unbelieving nurse. What could go wrong? :)
This story was so well done...and that ending!! That ending. You've just go to read it.
June 27, 2017
I wanted to strangle the MC on page 3 or 4 - the idea of nobody ever dying on her watch and her interfering with hospital care when she was a home care nurse just made me angry. However as a whole i enjoyed the book which was less about her nursing life and more about how her life was changed by coming into contact with a certain patient. Other reviews describe the religious element but i didn't see this as "religious /christian literature".
December 24, 2019
What I really loved about this book, is that it brought to light some tough issues ! A nurse with a compassion for helping the elderly and the ones in need, and not just the wealthy! Amanda is a woman with a heart of gold, but also has some faults of her own due to a rough childhood! Then you have a grumpy old man who is hard as nails, but also a tender hearted man, who just wanted to live his life on his terms. I did not want this book to end and I am hoping there will be a sequel!
February 24, 2022
An amazing book about redemption.
I loved evrry minute of reading this terrific book.
Two unlikely people forge a friendship. Amanda is a nurse who takes on the challenge of taking csre Horace who is anything but easy.
We find out just how special Amanda becomes in his life and things seem to turn completely around when Horace dies.
A book to remember.
I loved evrry minute of reading this terrific book.
Two unlikely people forge a friendship. Amanda is a nurse who takes on the challenge of taking csre Horace who is anything but easy.
We find out just how special Amanda becomes in his life and things seem to turn completely around when Horace dies.
A book to remember.
December 31, 2025
I appreciated the message; however, the storytelling did fall short for me. The plot didn’t always progress smoothly and some aspects of the story were hard to believe. But it isn’t a bad book. It helps you consider situations that may be different than your own and ways in which you can be the hands and feet of Jesus to others.
December 20, 2019
Inspirational message to care givers and nurses, they are special people and this story showed this. When a patient is stubborn and unwilling it is hard for even nurses to minister to them. Good story
March 16, 2020
When a book makes you cry ! It's 👍great
Good book made me cry. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. And will continue reading books by this author. Also love that if he books are about Christians
Good book made me cry. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. And will continue reading books by this author. Also love that if he books are about Christians
November 8, 2020
Great story!
I'm loving how the author doesn't shy Away from sharing the saving grace of Jesus... and at the same time doesn't LaYs wrap things up in a tidy bow... very, very good...
I'm loving how the author doesn't shy Away from sharing the saving grace of Jesus... and at the same time doesn't LaYs wrap things up in a tidy bow... very, very good...
December 7, 2021
Delightful Read
I love how down-to-earth, realistic and relatable the characters are in Valerie's book. This is the third story I have read. They just keep getting better! Thank you for sharing Jesus this way.
I love how down-to-earth, realistic and relatable the characters are in Valerie's book. This is the third story I have read. They just keep getting better! Thank you for sharing Jesus this way.
February 10, 2022
An light read almost predictable. Desperate for work the MC gets hired to care for a cranky older man ready to "go home" to be with his wife. Their bond grows with a life changing experience for both of them.
November 2, 2022
captivating
Captivating short story that draws you into the life of someone who needs to find the true meaning of life? Quite a bundle of many emotions throughout this story. Didn’t want to put it down. Well worth the read!
Captivating short story that draws you into the life of someone who needs to find the true meaning of life? Quite a bundle of many emotions throughout this story. Didn’t want to put it down. Well worth the read!
November 10, 2022
Grab a tissue
A heart warming story of a good hearted woman that life has knocked about and while she has every reason not to believe in Gods love she finally feel his overwhelming forgiveness and life changes for her and she feels the peace that only He can give!
A heart warming story of a good hearted woman that life has knocked about and while she has every reason not to believe in Gods love she finally feel his overwhelming forgiveness and life changes for her and she feels the peace that only He can give!
October 27, 2017
Good Christian-heartwarming story, not too sappy, lots of sad things happen but as one wise character claims, "the bad things that happened made us better" !
December 4, 2017
So good! I love, love, loved this book. Not a traditional Christian fiction story. A new author to me but one I plan on reading more from. I truly enjoyed this book.
January 19, 2018
This is the kind of story I've been looking for. Real life and real people. Mess and all.
February 28, 2019
Tough subjects and she tackled them all. Love her books.
February 21, 2020
Another great book! Such a sweet story of finding home, hope, and purpose.
March 11, 2021
Loved this book
Awesome book with real life questions and the right answer ... JESUS!
Good use of characters and I loved the opportunity to see a veteran cared for.
Awesome book with real life questions and the right answer ... JESUS!
Good use of characters and I loved the opportunity to see a veteran cared for.
December 3, 2021
Inspirational
Your book was great! It can show people if you open your heart,ask,and believe God will answer and provide. All you have to do is ask.
Your book was great! It can show people if you open your heart,ask,and believe God will answer and provide. All you have to do is ask.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews