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True North Springs #1
A Place to Heal
She’s found the perfect place for her camp.
But will he agree to her terms?
Opening a camp for children who’ve dealt with tragedy is former police detective Dana Preston’s main goal in life. After wandering the country, she’s finally found the perfect location—Mason Avery’s expansive Arizona mountainside property. Convincing the widowed dad—and the town—to agree might take a little prayer and a lot of hard work. But Dana’s never backed down from a challenge yet…
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
But will he agree to her terms?
Opening a camp for children who’ve dealt with tragedy is former police detective Dana Preston’s main goal in life. After wandering the country, she’s finally found the perfect location—Mason Avery’s expansive Arizona mountainside property. Convincing the widowed dad—and the town—to agree might take a little prayer and a lot of hard work. But Dana’s never backed down from a challenge yet…
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
368 pages, Paperback
Published June 28, 2022
About the author
Allie Pleiter
121 books669 followersAn avid knitter, coffee junkie and firm believer that “pie makes everything better,” Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and non-fiction working on as many as four novels at a time. The bestselling author of over fifty books, Allie has enjoyed a twenty-year career with over 1.5 million books sold. In addition to writing, Allie maintains an active writing productivity coaching practice and speaks regularly on the creative process, publishing, and her very favorite topic—The Chunky Method of time management for writers. Visit her website at www.alliepleiter.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 3, 2023
Oh y’all. This book WRECKED me. In all the best ways. (The pond. I can’t even. I was a mess. When you read it, you’ll know what I mean.) I expected that I would easily fall in love with the characters and with the town – and that Mason’s young son Charlie would tug at all my heartstrings – because that’s the way that Allie Pleiter’s books roll. But I didn’t expect to be moved to tears (the sweet kind) so often or for my heart to literally ache for Mason & Charlie as they worked through the continued emotions and ambushes of grief on their way to healing. And watching them both fall for bighearted Dana? Oh mercy, be still my heart!
Pleiter’s characters always feel so real because she doesn’t shy away from giving them raw emotions, the kind (be they joy, love, grief, anxiety, etc.) that just well up in you until they have to come out. Her Love Inspired books may be relatively quick reads but they are far from shallow. The depth and layers engage reader emotions and keep her characters in the center of your heart long after you’ve put the book aside. And as far as depth and emotions and layered characters go, A Place to Heal is perhaps her best yet. (I seem to say that about each new Pleiter book, I know, but it’s because it’s true!!)
Mason and Charlie are a father-son pair of wounded hearts, grief still holding them hostage in many ways despite the fact that several years have passed since the tragic – and violent – loss of their beloved wife and mother, respectively. Grief certainly has its own timeline, as I have discovered in the last few months since my dad’s death, and I really appreciated how the author respected that personal nature of grief while also gently reminding Mason & Charlie (and readers!) that at some point you have to begin living life again while still honoring your loved one’s memory. Enter Dana, a former police detective who has seen her fair share of violence and the trauma it leaves in its wake. She’s wounded, too, but in different ways, and her heart for children & families who have been rocked by tragedy is exactly what Mason & Charlie need. And maybe the fight they’re up against, to get the camp approved by the zoning committee, is what all of three of them need to find their own healing, individually and together.
Bottom Line: Oh my goodness, how I adored A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter. Mason & Charlie’s shared-but-also-different grief juxtaposed against the tenderness of them both tentatively opening their heart to love Dana just did me in – all. the. feels. Pleiter painted these sometimes-raw emotions in ink tinged with grace and empathy, and she also gifted readers with moments of well-timed adorableness and humor that soothed the sore places in our hearts. Not to mention that the romance is exquisitely sweet & swoony. I loved every page, and I can’t wait to revisit True North Springs in the next book!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Pleiter’s characters always feel so real because she doesn’t shy away from giving them raw emotions, the kind (be they joy, love, grief, anxiety, etc.) that just well up in you until they have to come out. Her Love Inspired books may be relatively quick reads but they are far from shallow. The depth and layers engage reader emotions and keep her characters in the center of your heart long after you’ve put the book aside. And as far as depth and emotions and layered characters go, A Place to Heal is perhaps her best yet. (I seem to say that about each new Pleiter book, I know, but it’s because it’s true!!)
Mason and Charlie are a father-son pair of wounded hearts, grief still holding them hostage in many ways despite the fact that several years have passed since the tragic – and violent – loss of their beloved wife and mother, respectively. Grief certainly has its own timeline, as I have discovered in the last few months since my dad’s death, and I really appreciated how the author respected that personal nature of grief while also gently reminding Mason & Charlie (and readers!) that at some point you have to begin living life again while still honoring your loved one’s memory. Enter Dana, a former police detective who has seen her fair share of violence and the trauma it leaves in its wake. She’s wounded, too, but in different ways, and her heart for children & families who have been rocked by tragedy is exactly what Mason & Charlie need. And maybe the fight they’re up against, to get the camp approved by the zoning committee, is what all of three of them need to find their own healing, individually and together.
Bottom Line: Oh my goodness, how I adored A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter. Mason & Charlie’s shared-but-also-different grief juxtaposed against the tenderness of them both tentatively opening their heart to love Dana just did me in – all. the. feels. Pleiter painted these sometimes-raw emotions in ink tinged with grace and empathy, and she also gifted readers with moments of well-timed adorableness and humor that soothed the sore places in our hearts. Not to mention that the romance is exquisitely sweet & swoony. I loved every page, and I can’t wait to revisit True North Springs in the next book!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
July 5, 2022
Dana Preston wants to open a camp for families who have had trauma through violence, she has seen it too many times as a police detective. She wants to be part of the change not in a position where she feels she can't do anything.
Mason and his son Charlie are just surviving but that is it, but then Dana comes into their lives and reminds them to they need to become a part of the thriving.
Charlie was my favourite character. Really liked this one.
Mason and his son Charlie are just surviving but that is it, but then Dana comes into their lives and reminds them to they need to become a part of the thriving.
Charlie was my favourite character. Really liked this one.
February 20, 2024
Love Inspired books are often my comfort reads, a lighter read after something more dark. Every once in a while, though, I discover a gem that rises above other books, and A Place to Heal is that book. It's a beautifully written story that deals with a serious topic and captured me emotionally.
Dana and Mason are both victims of violence, and Dana wants to use that experience to help other grieving families who suffer from violence. Her vision of a family camp is so very compelling and I loved how her intelligence and enthusiasm helped to break down protective barriers that Mason had built up and win over a town.
A renewal of faith also enters in. In one scene, Dana was turning through some old hymnbooks and thought how people of faith must often turn to hymns for inspiration. Not as a substitute for Scripture, but I find such joy in the text of so many hymns!
Camp True North Springs... such a meaningful name that reflects the purposes and goals of the camp! Dana's thoughts as she was placing a blue blanket on the last bunk say it all: Blue. It was a brave color. A color of courage and protection. The color of water, of springs nourishing the dry land. If true north had a color...it was blue.
A Place to Heal is a beautiful, heartfelt story. I look forward to other books in this series.
Quotes:
--"We wouldn't depend so much on God if we thought we could do it all alone."
-- "The thing about faith is that you can know - even when you can't feel - that things will turn out."
Dana and Mason are both victims of violence, and Dana wants to use that experience to help other grieving families who suffer from violence. Her vision of a family camp is so very compelling and I loved how her intelligence and enthusiasm helped to break down protective barriers that Mason had built up and win over a town.
A renewal of faith also enters in. In one scene, Dana was turning through some old hymnbooks and thought how people of faith must often turn to hymns for inspiration. Not as a substitute for Scripture, but I find such joy in the text of so many hymns!
Camp True North Springs... such a meaningful name that reflects the purposes and goals of the camp! Dana's thoughts as she was placing a blue blanket on the last bunk say it all: Blue. It was a brave color. A color of courage and protection. The color of water, of springs nourishing the dry land. If true north had a color...it was blue.
A Place to Heal is a beautiful, heartfelt story. I look forward to other books in this series.
Quotes:
--"We wouldn't depend so much on God if we thought we could do it all alone."
-- "The thing about faith is that you can know - even when you can't feel - that things will turn out."
August 19, 2022
I love that this story focuses on helping troubled youth. Whether it’s by a police detective or a widowed dad, or maybe both? Dana worked hard to overcome Mason’s hesitation for a youth camp. Author Allie Pleiter wrote well developed strong characters into this book..They made the story very true to life because she gave them real emotions. Her descriptions of the area made me want to visit!
I really liked the group of retirees that raise money for various causes. What a fun bunch of people! Then add in an adorable little boy, a sweet romance, and of course some conflict, and you have something for everyone. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
I really liked the group of retirees that raise money for various causes. What a fun bunch of people! Then add in an adorable little boy, a sweet romance, and of course some conflict, and you have something for everyone. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
November 3, 2022
This book is not like the other love inspired books. This book had a lot of trauma and violence in it. It was a really good read.
June 27, 2022
Allie Pleiter takes readers to a new setting in A Place to Heal, her new release from Love Inspired. Readers will meet the residents of North Springs, Arizona and want to visit again.
Dana has a heart for kids who have seen some of the worst life has to offer. Her one desire is to provide them a place of retreat and healing. A place where they can escape the trauma and enjoy some peace and family. Her one obstacle to overcoming that is Mason Avery—a man who has secluded himself on his family land after the death of his life.
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book. Dana’s heart to help and her determination to act, Mason’s son’s connection with Dana, the townspeople (the Buskateers are a great addition to the book, and something every town needs), the setting, and the premise. There’s also a good amount of romance in there, too.
A Place to Heal is a read worth adding to your summer tbr.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
Dana has a heart for kids who have seen some of the worst life has to offer. Her one desire is to provide them a place of retreat and healing. A place where they can escape the trauma and enjoy some peace and family. Her one obstacle to overcoming that is Mason Avery—a man who has secluded himself on his family land after the death of his life.
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book. Dana’s heart to help and her determination to act, Mason’s son’s connection with Dana, the townspeople (the Buskateers are a great addition to the book, and something every town needs), the setting, and the premise. There’s also a good amount of romance in there, too.
A Place to Heal is a read worth adding to your summer tbr.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. That's not a surprise, though, since I've loved every single book I've read by Allie Pleiter. This one was a heartfelt and emotional story full of genuine characters and a stunning setting.
I thought what Dana was trying to do was so noble, and I loved the whole idea of the camp. She's trying to bring a little light to kids who've been through some seriously dark times, and I was rooting so hard for her to succeed. Mason was understandably wary of the idea to begin with. He's been so isolated since the death of his wife, so it was great to watch him slowly open up more and venture back into the town. And his son Charlie was such an adorable little kid. I wanted the absolute best for him. I can't fail to mention the Busketeers. They were such an awesome group of townies and probably one of my favorite parts of the book.
If you're looking for a sweet romance set in a small town, I highly recommend this book. I'm so excited for the next one!
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I thought what Dana was trying to do was so noble, and I loved the whole idea of the camp. She's trying to bring a little light to kids who've been through some seriously dark times, and I was rooting so hard for her to succeed. Mason was understandably wary of the idea to begin with. He's been so isolated since the death of his wife, so it was great to watch him slowly open up more and venture back into the town. And his son Charlie was such an adorable little kid. I wanted the absolute best for him. I can't fail to mention the Busketeers. They were such an awesome group of townies and probably one of my favorite parts of the book.
If you're looking for a sweet romance set in a small town, I highly recommend this book. I'm so excited for the next one!
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
September 5, 2022
This did not pass the suspension of reality test for me. But Charlie is a cute kid in this tale. Dana in the cluttered rental house is funny. Some good moments.
June 27, 2022
Allie Pleiter is one of my all time favorite Love Inspired authors, and I've loved every single one of the stories she's written for this publisher. A Place To Heal ended up being no exception, and I think readers everywhere are going to love this story of hope and healing, and how we can often find it in the most unlikely of places.
When Dana Preston, a a big city police detective, is injured in the line of duty, she decides it's time for her to move on from the force. However, what she's witnessed in her many years working with troubled youth leads her to want to do something to change their circumstances before it gets to the point of needing law enforcement intervention. Her dream is to open a camp for families that have been the victims of violent crimes to find a place to heal together, and move forward to the future, and she knows the perfect place for the camp is on the family land belonging to Mason Avery and his adorable son Charlie. Unfortunately, she has to first convince Mason of it being so, and he has reservations about being involved in such a project, especially since him and his son are one such family that have been impacted by a violent crime in the past.
As Dana and Mason start to work together on making the camp a reality, they're met with both resistance and support from the community they've both come to know and love. Can they move forward in the project together, and trust that even in the hardships they're forced to face, that God still has the perfect plan no matter what?
A story that will tug at the heartstrings, and leave you with a big smile on your face, A Place to Heal is another wonderful faith based romance from Allie Pleiter, and is one that I will highly recommend.
The small town setting was spot on, I loved the many secondary characters (especially the Busketeers), and the way that the romance started out as a beautiful friendship that soon grew into something more.
If you enjoy clean romances that deal with harder hitting topics, then this book will definitely be the one for you. My favorite part ended up being the portion of the plot about the pond, but that's all I'm going to say as I don't want to spoil anything for anyone. Just know that if you do decide to pick up this beautiful story, you're definitely going to want to have some tissues handy!
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Allie Pleiter for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read 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.
When Dana Preston, a a big city police detective, is injured in the line of duty, she decides it's time for her to move on from the force. However, what she's witnessed in her many years working with troubled youth leads her to want to do something to change their circumstances before it gets to the point of needing law enforcement intervention. Her dream is to open a camp for families that have been the victims of violent crimes to find a place to heal together, and move forward to the future, and she knows the perfect place for the camp is on the family land belonging to Mason Avery and his adorable son Charlie. Unfortunately, she has to first convince Mason of it being so, and he has reservations about being involved in such a project, especially since him and his son are one such family that have been impacted by a violent crime in the past.
As Dana and Mason start to work together on making the camp a reality, they're met with both resistance and support from the community they've both come to know and love. Can they move forward in the project together, and trust that even in the hardships they're forced to face, that God still has the perfect plan no matter what?
A story that will tug at the heartstrings, and leave you with a big smile on your face, A Place to Heal is another wonderful faith based romance from Allie Pleiter, and is one that I will highly recommend.
The small town setting was spot on, I loved the many secondary characters (especially the Busketeers), and the way that the romance started out as a beautiful friendship that soon grew into something more.
If you enjoy clean romances that deal with harder hitting topics, then this book will definitely be the one for you. My favorite part ended up being the portion of the plot about the pond, but that's all I'm going to say as I don't want to spoil anything for anyone. Just know that if you do decide to pick up this beautiful story, you're definitely going to want to have some tissues handy!
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Allie Pleiter for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read 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.
March 16, 2023
This book is a wonderful start for the new contemporary romance True North Springs series by author Allie Pleiter.
Detective Dana Preston has a dream to open a camp for families that have been affected by violence and trauma.
Mason Avery and his son Charlie are trying to recover from the personal trauma that has affected their family as well. Dana feels she has found the perfect location using Mason’s family land.
I loved the small town setting and wonderful truly caring characters in the book. There were a few characters who didn’t share the vision of the camp for their town.
Working together to bring the camp into a reality not only brings hope and healing to Mason, Charlie and Dana but unites them with a possible future together.
A sweet story of hope, healing, second chances and seeing how grief is handled by those whose lives it touches.
Detective Dana Preston has a dream to open a camp for families that have been affected by violence and trauma.
Mason Avery and his son Charlie are trying to recover from the personal trauma that has affected their family as well. Dana feels she has found the perfect location using Mason’s family land.
I loved the small town setting and wonderful truly caring characters in the book. There were a few characters who didn’t share the vision of the camp for their town.
Working together to bring the camp into a reality not only brings hope and healing to Mason, Charlie and Dana but unites them with a possible future together.
A sweet story of hope, healing, second chances and seeing how grief is handled by those whose lives it touches.
October 6, 2022
An excellent story that moves slow in the beginning but gets better and better. A story of healing from unexpected places and people. Perfect for those who love contemporary romance stories.
July 4, 2022
A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter
True North Springs Series Book One
Mason Avery and his son live on twenty acres up in the mountains, land that has been in his family for three generations. Since the death of his wife, he’s let things go downhill, but he refuses to sell to all the real estate folks who want to fill the beautiful land with condos. The latest buyer is different, but he still refuses to sell.
Dana Preston, a former Denver PD detective, has a vision to start a camp for those who lost loved ones to violence. To help children before the wrong people get them while they’re vulnerable. And she found the perfect spot near where she grew up in Arizona. The only problem is that it’s not for sale. But she doesn’t quit easily.
I loved this story and am so excited for this new series. Dana was introduced in the Wander Canyon series as she had worked with Sawyer Bradshaw. His story is told in A Mother’s Strength, an incredibly touching story worth reading.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
True North Springs Series Book One
Mason Avery and his son live on twenty acres up in the mountains, land that has been in his family for three generations. Since the death of his wife, he’s let things go downhill, but he refuses to sell to all the real estate folks who want to fill the beautiful land with condos. The latest buyer is different, but he still refuses to sell.
Dana Preston, a former Denver PD detective, has a vision to start a camp for those who lost loved ones to violence. To help children before the wrong people get them while they’re vulnerable. And she found the perfect spot near where she grew up in Arizona. The only problem is that it’s not for sale. But she doesn’t quit easily.
I loved this story and am so excited for this new series. Dana was introduced in the Wander Canyon series as she had worked with Sawyer Bradshaw. His story is told in A Mother’s Strength, an incredibly touching story worth reading.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
July 22, 2023
Police detective Dana Preston has a dream to help troubled youth who have lost a parent to violence. While recovering from a major work-related injury, she starts looking for a way to make it come true. Her hunt takes her to Arizona, where she has found a property that she thinks would be a suitable location.
But is Dana able to overcome the resistance of the landowner and the town Zoning Commission? Can she gain the support of the town residents?
Author Allie Pleiter does a beautiful job of introducing us to Dana and the citizens of North Springs. At center stage are Dana, Mason (the landowner), and his son Charlie. As a reader, I became caught up in the wave of emotions as Mason struggles to come to the decision to help Dana move forward with her plans. His efforts force him to come out and rejoin the real world instead of hiding behind his hurt. Charlie is also fighting his own demons as he tries to adjust to the loss of his mother.
Could there be a romance blossoming as Dana and Mason work together? Will their efforts pay off so that they can move forward with Dana’s dream? You will simply have to get your own copy of this inspirational story to find out.
Thank you to Allie Pleiter for sending me this book won in a group giveaway. I was not asked to leave a review, but I wanted to share my thoughts about this wonderful story.
But is Dana able to overcome the resistance of the landowner and the town Zoning Commission? Can she gain the support of the town residents?
Author Allie Pleiter does a beautiful job of introducing us to Dana and the citizens of North Springs. At center stage are Dana, Mason (the landowner), and his son Charlie. As a reader, I became caught up in the wave of emotions as Mason struggles to come to the decision to help Dana move forward with her plans. His efforts force him to come out and rejoin the real world instead of hiding behind his hurt. Charlie is also fighting his own demons as he tries to adjust to the loss of his mother.
Could there be a romance blossoming as Dana and Mason work together? Will their efforts pay off so that they can move forward with Dana’s dream? You will simply have to get your own copy of this inspirational story to find out.
Thank you to Allie Pleiter for sending me this book won in a group giveaway. I was not asked to leave a review, but I wanted to share my thoughts about this wonderful story.
July 10, 2022
wonderful book
June 30, 2022
Loved the book. Well written and researched. I thoroughly enjoyed it from the first word and got into the story. I got upset with the town some too.
Dana has found the perfect spot for her camp. It is on someone's property.
Mason owns the property that Dana wants to put her camp on. He just wants to be left alone with his son since his wife died. When his son acts out, he knows something must be done and maybe Dana does know what she is talking about.
Can he get past his anger and let Dana help him and his son?
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
Dana has found the perfect spot for her camp. It is on someone's property.
Mason owns the property that Dana wants to put her camp on. He just wants to be left alone with his son since his wife died. When his son acts out, he knows something must be done and maybe Dana does know what she is talking about.
Can he get past his anger and let Dana help him and his son?
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
September 22, 2022
Heart-warming and touching. One of Allie Pleiter's best yet!
June 28, 2022
Sometime you know if the journey you are on is going to be for the long run or if you need to take what you learned and help others. I feel that was what Dana did in this book she wanted a place to heal but also wanted to help other heal. Mason needed to get everything together in order to figure out what was best for his son. I really liked Charlie he had such a big heart that was hurting and needed to find life at such a young age. This book was such a quick and cute read. It was fun and a clean read and worth it over all.
October 11, 2022
Allie Pleiter writes the most heart warming stories! This story deals with a family that has violence that ended with grief. Grief can leave one in a dark place. This story deals with the feelings as one comes out of the dark and starts living again. Ms Pleiter illustrates hope within her characters.
Dana Preston is a former police detective that decides to leave her job after being wounded. She wants to set up a camp for victims of violence, so they have a place to come and heal from their tragedies. Mason Avery has the perfect piece of ground for her camp. He and his son, Charlie, could also benefit from the camp as they lost their wife and mother to a violent act. Can Dana persuade Mason to get on board the camp idea? Can the town zoning board allow such a camp in their midst?
Dana Preston is a former police detective that decides to leave her job after being wounded. She wants to set up a camp for victims of violence, so they have a place to come and heal from their tragedies. Mason Avery has the perfect piece of ground for her camp. He and his son, Charlie, could also benefit from the camp as they lost their wife and mother to a violent act. Can Dana persuade Mason to get on board the camp idea? Can the town zoning board allow such a camp in their midst?
June 14, 2022
I always enjoy Allie Pleiter's LI books, and A Place to Heal is no exception! She brings to life a sweet romance between grieving widower, Mason Avery and former detective, Dana Preston. Mason's little boy falls for Dana first, and pulls his dad, kicking and screaming (figuratively) back to the living.
Dana is on medical leave from the Denver PD where she was shot and badly wounded by a "kid" committing a crime. She has decided that her life's mission is to create a camp for kids who have lost someone to violent crime, and she returns to the area she called home as a child, Arizona, to search for the perfect place. Finding Mason Avery's property is only a smidgeon of the battle. Convincing him to partner with her in the venture is a HUGE ask, but she believes in her cause. Can she make him see that her camp can help kids - exactly like his son?
Mason withdrew from virtually everything when his wife was killed and he nearly lost his son in a road rage incident. He doesn't want to hear the platitudes, or the sympathy. No one can understand the grief and helplessness he's endured. When Dana shows up on his doorstep, he basically refuses her entry to his property. Until his son hears about the camp and questions why his dad wouldn't want to help with a camp for other kids like him.
Can Mason and Dana work together to convince the town that the camp would be good? They're bringing in victims of violent crime, not the perpetrators, but to the town, there is little difference. And, when the head of the zoning commission is against it, do they even have a chance?
I loved many things about this book but I think one of my favorite things was the Busketeers (I think that's correct). This was a group of retirees who saw a need in their local school for positive influences on the children and decided to step in as bus drivers. This group sponsors scholarship drives, community breakfasts, and meals and they're all about giving back. Every community could use people like this to step into the lives of our kids. It made me wonder how many kids' lives could be changed through a group like this.
Readers who love a sweet, tender romance between two broken people who find strength in each other, will love A Place to Heal. Pleiter's books always touch my heart, and I'm always thrilled to see a new one come out!
Dana is on medical leave from the Denver PD where she was shot and badly wounded by a "kid" committing a crime. She has decided that her life's mission is to create a camp for kids who have lost someone to violent crime, and she returns to the area she called home as a child, Arizona, to search for the perfect place. Finding Mason Avery's property is only a smidgeon of the battle. Convincing him to partner with her in the venture is a HUGE ask, but she believes in her cause. Can she make him see that her camp can help kids - exactly like his son?
Mason withdrew from virtually everything when his wife was killed and he nearly lost his son in a road rage incident. He doesn't want to hear the platitudes, or the sympathy. No one can understand the grief and helplessness he's endured. When Dana shows up on his doorstep, he basically refuses her entry to his property. Until his son hears about the camp and questions why his dad wouldn't want to help with a camp for other kids like him.
Can Mason and Dana work together to convince the town that the camp would be good? They're bringing in victims of violent crime, not the perpetrators, but to the town, there is little difference. And, when the head of the zoning commission is against it, do they even have a chance?
I loved many things about this book but I think one of my favorite things was the Busketeers (I think that's correct). This was a group of retirees who saw a need in their local school for positive influences on the children and decided to step in as bus drivers. This group sponsors scholarship drives, community breakfasts, and meals and they're all about giving back. Every community could use people like this to step into the lives of our kids. It made me wonder how many kids' lives could be changed through a group like this.
Readers who love a sweet, tender romance between two broken people who find strength in each other, will love A Place to Heal. Pleiter's books always touch my heart, and I'm always thrilled to see a new one come out!
June 17, 2022
A place to heal
Dana needs to find some land for her camp to help kids. After finding the lands she wants she meets Charlie who is a young boy who recently lost his mother. She ends helping Mason, Charlie’s father with Charlie. I loved how they grow close. Dana has to convince Mason and then the town for the camp. Will she be able to?
A place to Heal was a fast reading book. A great story. I really loved Charlie, such a wonderful young boy.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
Dana needs to find some land for her camp to help kids. After finding the lands she wants she meets Charlie who is a young boy who recently lost his mother. She ends helping Mason, Charlie’s father with Charlie. I loved how they grow close. Dana has to convince Mason and then the town for the camp. Will she be able to?
A place to Heal was a fast reading book. A great story. I really loved Charlie, such a wonderful young boy.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
August 11, 2022
If you want a book that will pull your heartstrings from the first page, read A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter. The writing is beautiful, and the characters realistic. The heroine, Dana, is a former police detective who has her heart set on opening a camp to help children who are victims of tragedy. She’s smart enough to know she needs the right place for the camp and the right person to help transform her dream into a reality. Enter Mason Avery. Mason is dealing with the aftermath of his own pain while struggling to care for his equally wounded young son, Charlie. He’s not quick to jump on board, but the deeper his feelings for Dana go, the more he wants to see her vision come to life. The main pluses for me: the love story develops naturally, Dana and Mason are perfectly paired, Charlie steals scene after scene, and the message of hope remains.
January 30, 2023
Wow, Beautifully designed story that displays empathy, compassionate and emotional struggles that deals with raging anger and volience that leads realistically to death.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
October 10, 2023
📚THE STORY📚
After surviving a shooting, police officer Dana has decided to take a step back from the violence and heartbreak of her law enforcement career and focus on a new dream. She wants to buy a plot of land in Arizona to open a camp for children and families affected by violent crime.
When she approaches landowner Mason Avery with her proposition, however, he is less than enthused. Mason has his hands full with his young son Charlie as the two of them cope with the loss of Mason's wife in a road rage incident.
But as Dana uses her unique skills and training to help Charlie and connect with their small town community, Mason starts to come around to the idea. Soon they become a team - but can they overcome all the obstacles in the way of their shared dream?
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Dana and Mason are adults with their own histories and wounds. Neither of them come to things looking for romance - initially, they are wary of each other, and then they start working on a sort of professional partnership. As they start to feel attracted to each other, they process it like adults and figure out what they want.
I thought the romance between Dana and Mason was mature and well developed, balancing attraction and chemistry with down to earth shared values and collaboration. By the time the two kiss and declare their romantic interest in each other, it's already clear that they'd be a great match. And when they do kiss, it's satisfying and sweet.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
The religious elements in this book are handled with a light but deft touch. Both characters pray, and the small town atmosphere surrounds them with all manner of commentary regarding church and faith. The local church community is a pillar of the setting and the plot. I loved the way the older members of the town serve as mentors and leaders guided by their faith.
Though the presence of specific and explicit faith elements is delicate, the book's Christian themes are deep and very present in this inspirational romance. Healing and redemption, and the way relationships pave the way for God's work to be done in the characters' lives, are front and center.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
I loved the Arizona setting - that's where I'm from, and I always enjoy seeing Arizona represented in fiction! It's up in the mountains, which isn't a place many people think of when they picture Arizona. I loved the small town setting, with the "Busketeers" and community-wide meetings.
I thought the characters were well rounded and relatable, and I especially loved seeing the way Dana's experience with high-risk youth informed her actions. Having her be a retired police officer who focused specifically on juveniles made her more sympathetic than other LEO heroes, in my opinion. And the way she connects with Mason's son and advocates for kids from hard places is excellent.
I did think the pacing was a bit lopsided - after Dana and Mason face a major setback, they kind of just try again and things are resolved on the second turnaround. I was really emotionally invested and the gut-punch of the failure was so intense that I couldn't wait to see how they came at it from a different direction to resolve it. But that was really my only issue!
After surviving a shooting, police officer Dana has decided to take a step back from the violence and heartbreak of her law enforcement career and focus on a new dream. She wants to buy a plot of land in Arizona to open a camp for children and families affected by violent crime.
When she approaches landowner Mason Avery with her proposition, however, he is less than enthused. Mason has his hands full with his young son Charlie as the two of them cope with the loss of Mason's wife in a road rage incident.
But as Dana uses her unique skills and training to help Charlie and connect with their small town community, Mason starts to come around to the idea. Soon they become a team - but can they overcome all the obstacles in the way of their shared dream?
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Dana and Mason are adults with their own histories and wounds. Neither of them come to things looking for romance - initially, they are wary of each other, and then they start working on a sort of professional partnership. As they start to feel attracted to each other, they process it like adults and figure out what they want.
I thought the romance between Dana and Mason was mature and well developed, balancing attraction and chemistry with down to earth shared values and collaboration. By the time the two kiss and declare their romantic interest in each other, it's already clear that they'd be a great match. And when they do kiss, it's satisfying and sweet.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
The religious elements in this book are handled with a light but deft touch. Both characters pray, and the small town atmosphere surrounds them with all manner of commentary regarding church and faith. The local church community is a pillar of the setting and the plot. I loved the way the older members of the town serve as mentors and leaders guided by their faith.
Though the presence of specific and explicit faith elements is delicate, the book's Christian themes are deep and very present in this inspirational romance. Healing and redemption, and the way relationships pave the way for God's work to be done in the characters' lives, are front and center.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
I loved the Arizona setting - that's where I'm from, and I always enjoy seeing Arizona represented in fiction! It's up in the mountains, which isn't a place many people think of when they picture Arizona. I loved the small town setting, with the "Busketeers" and community-wide meetings.
I thought the characters were well rounded and relatable, and I especially loved seeing the way Dana's experience with high-risk youth informed her actions. Having her be a retired police officer who focused specifically on juveniles made her more sympathetic than other LEO heroes, in my opinion. And the way she connects with Mason's son and advocates for kids from hard places is excellent.
I did think the pacing was a bit lopsided - after Dana and Mason face a major setback, they kind of just try again and things are resolved on the second turnaround. I was really emotionally invested and the gut-punch of the failure was so intense that I couldn't wait to see how they came at it from a different direction to resolve it. But that was really my only issue!
April 20, 2024
Emotion packed and filled with delightful characters
Dana is trying to find her way after being shot by two kids as a police detective in Denver. She comes to mountains far away from Denver to try to find healing and build a camp to help others heal. Charlie is home from school and rides his bike up. He sees Dana looking at their land. Mason comes looking for Charlie and finds him talking through the fence to Dana. He has had many people try to get him to sell the land for condos or a resort, but Dana's plan is different. Can she convince Mason to buy into this plan? What happens if the people in the nearby town rise up against the idea?
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has some kisses only. The characters are vibrant and endearing. Charlie is as well drawn as the adults are. This is book 1 of the True North series, even though Amazon doesn't list it as such. Enjoy!
Dana is trying to find her way after being shot by two kids as a police detective in Denver. She comes to mountains far away from Denver to try to find healing and build a camp to help others heal. Charlie is home from school and rides his bike up. He sees Dana looking at their land. Mason comes looking for Charlie and finds him talking through the fence to Dana. He has had many people try to get him to sell the land for condos or a resort, but Dana's plan is different. Can she convince Mason to buy into this plan? What happens if the people in the nearby town rise up against the idea?
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has some kisses only. The characters are vibrant and endearing. Charlie is as well drawn as the adults are. This is book 1 of the True North series, even though Amazon doesn't list it as such. Enjoy!
July 14, 2022
New series – new healing place!
Wonderful story with emotional richness that will warm your heart.
“Most women Mason knew drowned their sorrows in chocolate or ice cream. But cheese? No doubt about it, Dana Preston was a most extraordinary woman.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Wonderful story with emotional richness that will warm your heart.
“Most women Mason knew drowned their sorrows in chocolate or ice cream. But cheese? No doubt about it, Dana Preston was a most extraordinary woman.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
August 18, 2023
Allie Pleiter delivers another great book and start to a new wonderful series. Dana wants to open a camp for kids and families that have had a tragedy and wants to have it at Mason’s property in the mountains. Mason and his son Charlie had their own tragedy so this really hits home for them but will take some convincing. God is at work on them. Great story- 5 stars!!
July 22, 2024
What a great book and what a great start to what promises to be a wonderful series. I discovered Ruth Logan Herne a month or so ago and fell in love with her books.
This story is moving and full of faith lessons. it’s about heart and pain and not letting those to find us. It’s about taking what the Lord gives us and moving forward in spite of the pain and our circumstances. it’s about serving and loving others… Responding to the call the Lord places on your life… And healing.
I do you think this is one of those series you need to read in order as there’s at least one situation that I believe will be carried on into the other books.
This story is moving and full of faith lessons. it’s about heart and pain and not letting those to find us. It’s about taking what the Lord gives us and moving forward in spite of the pain and our circumstances. it’s about serving and loving others… Responding to the call the Lord places on your life… And healing.
I do you think this is one of those series you need to read in order as there’s at least one situation that I believe will be carried on into the other books.
September 30, 2023
sweet!
February 21, 2026
Meaningful and sweet!
Charlie was my favorite character. He has been through a lot in his young age,but he is still a sweet soul. I enjoyed this book very much!
Charlie was my favorite character. He has been through a lot in his young age,but he is still a sweet soul. I enjoyed this book very much!
July 4, 2026
Easy read. Story became slightly predictable. But then was surprised with the ending…only to find out there are more books to this one.
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