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Embracing His Past
He came to find his son…
but might discover love along the way.
Stunned to learn he has an adult son, widower Harrison Mitchell’s eager to track him down and build a relationship. But when he uproots his life and moves to Natchez, Mississippi, he’s hit with another surprise: his new boss, Anise Armstrong, is his son’s adoptive mother. Now he must win her trust to prove he deserves to be a father and grandfather…and possibly a husband.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
but might discover love along the way.
Stunned to learn he has an adult son, widower Harrison Mitchell’s eager to track him down and build a relationship. But when he uproots his life and moves to Natchez, Mississippi, he’s hit with another surprise: his new boss, Anise Armstrong, is his son’s adoptive mother. Now he must win her trust to prove he deserves to be a father and grandfather…and possibly a husband.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
- GenresRomanceChristian Fiction
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2022
7 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Christina Miller
12 books17 followersAuthor Christina Miller’s idea of a perfect day involves a southern beach, a stack of books, and a glass of sweet tea. Years ago, she left her job as an RN to work in the church her husband pastors. She also became a writer—and sometimes she gets to write on the beach. Christina is a Love Inspired author, Bethany Global University (Bloomington, Minnesota) graduate with degrees in theology and missiology. and is a church secretary, worship leader, and children’s ministry teacher. She has owned and operated Mentor’s Pen Editorial Services for the past fourteen years, specializing in fiction editing. Her latest release, Embracing His Past, was a 2023 Carol Award finalist. Christina lives on her family farm with her husband of thirty-five years.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 19, 2022
As I had read the previous two books of the series, I was interested in this one to see how the characters from the previous books are doing, and this story sounded interesting from the beginning. Usually the hero/heroine (H/H) are younger (mid 20’s to late 30’s).
Rarely are the main characters older with adult children – even being grandparents (these two were in their mid-late 40’s), so that drew me right off and definitely made the book very interesting. As of note, if Anise was 18 when she had Abe, who was a year older than Jase, she was 44. With Jase revealing he was about 23 years younger than Harrison, that puts Harrison around age 48. Not too old though.
The hero on the cover was an interesting change too – again, an older man. That definitely intrigued me.
Some series books can be read as standalones. I HIGHLY recommended reading the books in order. One of the main reasons is that the events of the two previous books – Finding His Family and An Orphan’s Hope are referred to. And, the characters from those two books return in this well as well. This particular book is extremely connected to book #2.
Finding His Family (#1) – Abe reconnects with his ex-wife and learns he is the father of little Georgia, runs a gym and has a Parkinson’s boxing program
An Orphan’s Hope (#2) – Jase gets custody of baby Bella, marries Erin
Another reason is that anyone reading this book before the others will get some major plot and end-story spoilers. Those who’ve read the second book will automatically know one of the spoiler’s right off.
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
👣 Eugenia – Rosemary’s grandmother
Returning characters from An Orphans’ Hope:
👣 Jase Armstrong – preacher and Abe’s brother
👣 Erin Rucker – private nurse and Danielle’s bridesmaid
👣 Fannie – Jase’s boss and friend of Eugenia
👣 Bella – Jase’s baby by way of a cousin (Courtney) who was killed in an accident
👣 Darnell – young man that is in Jase’s youth group
👣 Chance – immediately took to baby Bella
👣 Anise Armstrong – Abe and Jase’s mother
New characters for this story:
⛪ Harrison Mitchell – looking for the woman who adopted his son, wants to be a part of his son’s life
🐶 Tiny Romeo – a dog who befriends Anise by way of her dog; shared by Anise and Harrison
Miller wastes no time getting to the heart of the story all on page one. Harrison is in Natchez looking for his adult son after getting a letter from an attorney in Nashville. He has gone so far as to leave his flight nurse job in San Diego to settle in Natchez to look for the son he didn’t know about.
He meets his neighbor, Anise, thanks to Tiny Romeo – obviously a planned meeting thanks to the Natchez Matchmaker (aka: Eugenia). And, Harrison gets a brief intro to Anise’s family.
Harrison is looking forward to working trauma in the ER, which is going to be tamer, though not on his level of “keep-busy”. He ends up being recruited for the mobile clinic run by Anise.
It is there she asks him to her family’s dinner and bible study. And, it is at the dinner and bible study that he meets Abe and Jase. And, Jase is standoffish. He sees an innocent incident between the two and assumes they’re dating. He’s not used to seeing his “mom” with another man.
The hard fact – at first, neither Harrison nor Anise want another relationship in their lives. That definitely makes this a more intriguing read. Yet, Jase can sense and see the chemistry.
It is within the first 50 pages the reader finds out who the “son” is. And, those who’ve read the other books, it won’t come as a shock.
As Harrison gets closer to his son, he soon begins to realize what his late wife was going through with her infertility struggle and how badly she wanted to be a mom and have a family.
Harrison opts to continue his work with Anise in the mobile clinic due to a patient on the route, a young boy, that reminds him of his late brother. In addition, Harrison has found what he is looking for – his son.
Anise is putting off telling Jase who is father is. She isn’t sure how he’ll react, and Anise isn’t ready to share the news either. She also isn’t read to share Jase, no matter how nice Harrison is.
When Jason learns the truth, he is upset. More at Anise than Harrison. That wears off, but a concern lingers. It isn’t him that he is worried about, it is his daughter Bella who already lost her birthday mom. And, I have to say this – Harrison doesn’t let him down either.
As Jase finally gives Harrison his “blessing” to date Anise, there is an accident that completely derails the relationship before it gets started.
But, since it is a romance – there is an HEA, although it takes a while to get there. The end is dramatic, tearful, and hopeful. There are elements of humor as well – the two riding a donkey to deliver a baby is one moment that stands out.
The writing and pacing were perfect. Miller didn’t lag or leave anything linger. The book was over before I even realized it. Then again, it was pretty hard to put it down.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. There were a few things I did have some issues with. One involved an accident that the two were in. Anise’s attitude towards Harrison was troubling and disheartening as she became obsessed over repairs.
This was the first time I enjoyed the other characters more than the main H/H. I love that Darnell and Chance from the previous book returned too, though I would’ve liked an update as to what they had been doing.
I am hoping there is one more in the Natchez series as I wanted to see the closure of the story arcs involving a few of the patients.
Those who’ve read the first two books won’t want to miss this one, fans of the author and the Love Inspired line will definitely want to read this as well. I’m eagerly waiting for the author’s next book.
Since this is a Love Inspired book, and one of the main characters is a pastor, this is going to have some strong Christian and faith themes.
NOTE: In real life, the author did share Tiny Romeo with her neighbors, though they lived a half mile away. I thought this was a super sweet idea to share a pet, and then include the idea in a story.
Rarely are the main characters older with adult children – even being grandparents (these two were in their mid-late 40’s), so that drew me right off and definitely made the book very interesting. As of note, if Anise was 18 when she had Abe, who was a year older than Jase, she was 44. With Jase revealing he was about 23 years younger than Harrison, that puts Harrison around age 48. Not too old though.
The hero on the cover was an interesting change too – again, an older man. That definitely intrigued me.
Some series books can be read as standalones. I HIGHLY recommended reading the books in order. One of the main reasons is that the events of the two previous books – Finding His Family and An Orphan’s Hope are referred to. And, the characters from those two books return in this well as well. This particular book is extremely connected to book #2.
Finding His Family (#1) – Abe reconnects with his ex-wife and learns he is the father of little Georgia, runs a gym and has a Parkinson’s boxing program
An Orphan’s Hope (#2) – Jase gets custody of baby Bella, marries Erin
Another reason is that anyone reading this book before the others will get some major plot and end-story spoilers. Those who’ve read the second book will automatically know one of the spoiler’s right off.
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
👣 Eugenia – Rosemary’s grandmother
Returning characters from An Orphans’ Hope:
👣 Jase Armstrong – preacher and Abe’s brother
👣 Erin Rucker – private nurse and Danielle’s bridesmaid
👣 Fannie – Jase’s boss and friend of Eugenia
👣 Bella – Jase’s baby by way of a cousin (Courtney) who was killed in an accident
👣 Darnell – young man that is in Jase’s youth group
👣 Chance – immediately took to baby Bella
👣 Anise Armstrong – Abe and Jase’s mother
New characters for this story:
⛪ Harrison Mitchell – looking for the woman who adopted his son, wants to be a part of his son’s life
🐶 Tiny Romeo – a dog who befriends Anise by way of her dog; shared by Anise and Harrison
Miller wastes no time getting to the heart of the story all on page one. Harrison is in Natchez looking for his adult son after getting a letter from an attorney in Nashville. He has gone so far as to leave his flight nurse job in San Diego to settle in Natchez to look for the son he didn’t know about.
He meets his neighbor, Anise, thanks to Tiny Romeo – obviously a planned meeting thanks to the Natchez Matchmaker (aka: Eugenia). And, Harrison gets a brief intro to Anise’s family.
Harrison is looking forward to working trauma in the ER, which is going to be tamer, though not on his level of “keep-busy”. He ends up being recruited for the mobile clinic run by Anise.
It is there she asks him to her family’s dinner and bible study. And, it is at the dinner and bible study that he meets Abe and Jase. And, Jase is standoffish. He sees an innocent incident between the two and assumes they’re dating. He’s not used to seeing his “mom” with another man.
The hard fact – at first, neither Harrison nor Anise want another relationship in their lives. That definitely makes this a more intriguing read. Yet, Jase can sense and see the chemistry.
It is within the first 50 pages the reader finds out who the “son” is. And, those who’ve read the other books, it won’t come as a shock.
As Harrison gets closer to his son, he soon begins to realize what his late wife was going through with her infertility struggle and how badly she wanted to be a mom and have a family.
Harrison opts to continue his work with Anise in the mobile clinic due to a patient on the route, a young boy, that reminds him of his late brother. In addition, Harrison has found what he is looking for – his son.
Anise is putting off telling Jase who is father is. She isn’t sure how he’ll react, and Anise isn’t ready to share the news either. She also isn’t read to share Jase, no matter how nice Harrison is.
When Jason learns the truth, he is upset. More at Anise than Harrison. That wears off, but a concern lingers. It isn’t him that he is worried about, it is his daughter Bella who already lost her birthday mom. And, I have to say this – Harrison doesn’t let him down either.
As Jase finally gives Harrison his “blessing” to date Anise, there is an accident that completely derails the relationship before it gets started.
But, since it is a romance – there is an HEA, although it takes a while to get there. The end is dramatic, tearful, and hopeful. There are elements of humor as well – the two riding a donkey to deliver a baby is one moment that stands out.
The writing and pacing were perfect. Miller didn’t lag or leave anything linger. The book was over before I even realized it. Then again, it was pretty hard to put it down.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. There were a few things I did have some issues with. One involved an accident that the two were in. Anise’s attitude towards Harrison was troubling and disheartening as she became obsessed over repairs.
This was the first time I enjoyed the other characters more than the main H/H. I love that Darnell and Chance from the previous book returned too, though I would’ve liked an update as to what they had been doing.
I am hoping there is one more in the Natchez series as I wanted to see the closure of the story arcs involving a few of the patients.
Those who’ve read the first two books won’t want to miss this one, fans of the author and the Love Inspired line will definitely want to read this as well. I’m eagerly waiting for the author’s next book.
Since this is a Love Inspired book, and one of the main characters is a pastor, this is going to have some strong Christian and faith themes.
NOTE: In real life, the author did share Tiny Romeo with her neighbors, though they lived a half mile away. I thought this was a super sweet idea to share a pet, and then include the idea in a story.
August 13, 2022
What an emotional journey this story was! I really enjoyed being back in the community that the author has created in Natchez. Even if you haven’t read the earlier books, you can jump into this one. It has characters from other stories, but does stand alone fine. Having said that, I liked that I had read the book before this one titled An Orphan’s Hope, since the male main character in that story turns out to be the son of the male main character in this novel.
The emotions in Embracing His Past felt so real and so honest. The characters sometimes made me sad or frustrated or elated, but all of the time it felt real. My heart hurt for Harrison at times in the book when he would put himself out there and then feel pushed aside for one reason or another.
I liked that although some characters occasionally reacted to things based on events in the past, they ended up seeking advice from a trusted friend or family member and working through what was bothering them. I loved the relationship that grew between Jase and Harrison. It made my heart very happy, as did the sweet romance that developed throughout the story between Harrison and Anise.
(4.5 stars)
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...
The emotions in Embracing His Past felt so real and so honest. The characters sometimes made me sad or frustrated or elated, but all of the time it felt real. My heart hurt for Harrison at times in the book when he would put himself out there and then feel pushed aside for one reason or another.
I liked that although some characters occasionally reacted to things based on events in the past, they ended up seeking advice from a trusted friend or family member and working through what was bothering them. I loved the relationship that grew between Jase and Harrison. It made my heart very happy, as did the sweet romance that developed throughout the story between Harrison and Anise.
(4.5 stars)
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 5, 2023
The book started off well. but then it fell apart, I cant believe the ending.
August 15, 2022
I thought this was a good book. I liked how Harrison was willing to give up everything to find his son once he knew he had one. I liked the matchmaking going on in the community. I thought that was a fun touch. I also liked that the characters were believable and that their reactions to things were too. I would be hard to be Harrison and find out that you had a son that you were never told about but it would be hard to be the son thinking your father just never wanted you. I liked that there was a lot of healing in this book for Harrison and his son and for Anise who had adopted Jase. I thought this was a good book.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
August 10, 2022
Embracing his past
This is the first book I read by this author. I will definitely be reading more. This was a great story. Harrison went to find his son and found a whole lot more. I loved how Harrison and Anise meet through their dogs. Dogs and kids bring so much to a book. Embracing his past has both. This is a very inspiring story. I enjoyed it so much.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Just Read Publicity. This book review is my own opinion.
This is the first book I read by this author. I will definitely be reading more. This was a great story. Harrison went to find his son and found a whole lot more. I loved how Harrison and Anise meet through their dogs. Dogs and kids bring so much to a book. Embracing his past has both. This is a very inspiring story. I enjoyed it so much.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Just Read Publicity. This book review is my own opinion.
August 15, 2022
I enjoy second chance love stories, and as I get older, I appreciate romances with more mature characters in their 40’s. This romance also combines a surprise baby, except the baby is an adult. There was a lot of heart in this story as well as humor and faith that hooked me from the beginning.
Harrison is a traveling flight nurse located in San Diego. He’s surprised to learn from an attorney that he’s the father of an adult son from a brief relationship he had in his 20’s. With no surviving family and widowed, he decides to relocate to Natchez, Mississippi to find his son and build a relationship with him, if he’ll have him. What he doesn’t expect is to fall in love not just with his son or the next door neighbor who happens to be his son’s adoptive mother, but the whole community of Natchez including a tiny dog aptly named Tiny Romeo.
I enjoyed the relationship between Harrison and Anise. Both carry baggage from previous relationships and aren’t interested in romance. As healthcare professionals working together to care for the community, they naturally grow close. I liked the way their relationship evolved and some of the humorous circumstances they find themselves in, one involving a donkey named Bogey. Their nosey matchmaking neighbor added a lot of fun to the story too. I also liked the way Harrison built a relationship with Jase.
I have to admit that while there was very little drama, I was frustrated with Anise part way through the story. She lets her fears of the past get in the way of her future and tries to take on too much by herself. I liked the way she finally realized she didn’t have to be alone.
All in all, a sweet romance with faith interwoven throughout. I also enjoyed the Southern culture featured. This book can definitely be read as a standalone, even though there are other books leading up to this one. The story flowed easily, and I enjoyed the characters so much I’d go back and read the previous books. I received a complimentary copy from JustRead Tours. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Harrison is a traveling flight nurse located in San Diego. He’s surprised to learn from an attorney that he’s the father of an adult son from a brief relationship he had in his 20’s. With no surviving family and widowed, he decides to relocate to Natchez, Mississippi to find his son and build a relationship with him, if he’ll have him. What he doesn’t expect is to fall in love not just with his son or the next door neighbor who happens to be his son’s adoptive mother, but the whole community of Natchez including a tiny dog aptly named Tiny Romeo.
I enjoyed the relationship between Harrison and Anise. Both carry baggage from previous relationships and aren’t interested in romance. As healthcare professionals working together to care for the community, they naturally grow close. I liked the way their relationship evolved and some of the humorous circumstances they find themselves in, one involving a donkey named Bogey. Their nosey matchmaking neighbor added a lot of fun to the story too. I also liked the way Harrison built a relationship with Jase.
I have to admit that while there was very little drama, I was frustrated with Anise part way through the story. She lets her fears of the past get in the way of her future and tries to take on too much by herself. I liked the way she finally realized she didn’t have to be alone.
All in all, a sweet romance with faith interwoven throughout. I also enjoyed the Southern culture featured. This book can definitely be read as a standalone, even though there are other books leading up to this one. The story flowed easily, and I enjoyed the characters so much I’d go back and read the previous books. I received a complimentary copy from JustRead Tours. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
August 27, 2022
Lovely story. Harrison & Anise.
Setting: Natchez,MS
He’s been a traveling nurse and has just arrived from San Diego to find his son.
Anise is in charge of a rural clinic located in an RV.
She raised Jase (Harrison’s son) as her adopted son.
Lots to like here: Bogey the BIG donkey has a funny scene, Jase’s intro and eventual acceptance of his Dad, music, life lessons learned.
I definitely want to read her previous book that tells Jase and Erin’s story.
This is a new author to me.
Setting: Natchez,MS
He’s been a traveling nurse and has just arrived from San Diego to find his son.
Anise is in charge of a rural clinic located in an RV.
She raised Jase (Harrison’s son) as her adopted son.
Lots to like here: Bogey the BIG donkey has a funny scene, Jase’s intro and eventual acceptance of his Dad, music, life lessons learned.
I definitely want to read her previous book that tells Jase and Erin’s story.
This is a new author to me.
August 2, 2022
What would you do if you found out that you had a grown son? If it were me I would do exactly what Harrison does, and go in search of his son in hopes to establish a relationship with him and make up for lost time. What he doesn’t bank on is his whole world being turned upside down and setting him on a journey that not only helps him embrace his past but also makes him realize what his heart wants for his future.
For some reason, though I loved the premise of this story, and love this series, I really struggled to get into this installment. I really thought this would be something right up my alley, as I fell in love with this Natchez family, and I enjoy the more mature characters and situations, but I found myself frustrated as I tried to connect to the two main characters, and get into the story in general.
At first, I didn’t care for Harrison, or Jase’s attitude towards him, but seeing their motivations and their hearts of gold eventually won me over. Anise, though she is the heroine of this story, rubbed me the wrong way. On all appearances she is wonderful, but I just didn’t care for her at all, especially when he was schooling Harrison on “proper Southern food”. If someone wants to put gravy on something, even if it’s not “southern” they should have every right to!
I did enjoy the love story between the puppies, and Abe, Anise’s other son, was by far my favorite character, as I loved almost every scene he was in. I also loved getting to see Jase and Erin again, as I absolutely adored An Orphan’s Hope. The theme of grace, redemption, and family was most welcome and the overall flow of the story was perfect, though I did feel like the ending felt very rushed.
I wish I would’ve liked the main characters more as this story has such great promise, and this series is still a favorite of mine. It continues the message of new beginnings and is filled with such hope I couldn’t help but be won over. I admire the faith and close knit family, with just a hint of matchmaking sprinkled throughout, and can’t wait to see where this charming series takes us next!
*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.
For some reason, though I loved the premise of this story, and love this series, I really struggled to get into this installment. I really thought this would be something right up my alley, as I fell in love with this Natchez family, and I enjoy the more mature characters and situations, but I found myself frustrated as I tried to connect to the two main characters, and get into the story in general.
At first, I didn’t care for Harrison, or Jase’s attitude towards him, but seeing their motivations and their hearts of gold eventually won me over. Anise, though she is the heroine of this story, rubbed me the wrong way. On all appearances she is wonderful, but I just didn’t care for her at all, especially when he was schooling Harrison on “proper Southern food”. If someone wants to put gravy on something, even if it’s not “southern” they should have every right to!
I did enjoy the love story between the puppies, and Abe, Anise’s other son, was by far my favorite character, as I loved almost every scene he was in. I also loved getting to see Jase and Erin again, as I absolutely adored An Orphan’s Hope. The theme of grace, redemption, and family was most welcome and the overall flow of the story was perfect, though I did feel like the ending felt very rushed.
I wish I would’ve liked the main characters more as this story has such great promise, and this series is still a favorite of mine. It continues the message of new beginnings and is filled with such hope I couldn’t help but be won over. I admire the faith and close knit family, with just a hint of matchmaking sprinkled throughout, and can’t wait to see where this charming series takes us next!
*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.
August 15, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by author Christina Miller. Miller did a good job of pulling the reader into the story by writing well developed characters who, while dealing with past issues, move ahead in life. Her descriptions were a big part of holding my interest; I must visit Natchez and see the sights.
Embracing His Past has something for everyone; humor (Tiny Romeo), emotions all over the place (discovering a grown son will do that), and strong family ties. I loved it!
A sequel to Finding His Family, and An Orphan’s Hope, this can be read as a stand alone. However, I highly recommend reading the other two as they are equally as good, and will deepen the enjoyment of Embracing His Past.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Embracing His Past has something for everyone; humor (Tiny Romeo), emotions all over the place (discovering a grown son will do that), and strong family ties. I loved it!
A sequel to Finding His Family, and An Orphan’s Hope, this can be read as a stand alone. However, I highly recommend reading the other two as they are equally as good, and will deepen the enjoyment of Embracing His Past.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
August 11, 2022
Embracing His Past by Christina Miller is a Love Inspired contemporary romance.
This was such a sweet story! Harrison is an awesome hero. I’ve read the past two stories in the connected books, the ones about the two Armstrong boys, so reading about their mom’s romance both took me aback (it took me a minute to realize who she was) and made me enjoy this story all the more. It was fun to revisit the family and see how the family is growing.
If you’re looking for a sweet romance with all the family dynamics, then this book is for you. You don’t have to read the other two books, but it adds such a depth that I think reading all three back-to-back would make for a wonderful re-reading experience.
—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
This was such a sweet story! Harrison is an awesome hero. I’ve read the past two stories in the connected books, the ones about the two Armstrong boys, so reading about their mom’s romance both took me aback (it took me a minute to realize who she was) and made me enjoy this story all the more. It was fun to revisit the family and see how the family is growing.
If you’re looking for a sweet romance with all the family dynamics, then this book is for you. You don’t have to read the other two books, but it adds such a depth that I think reading all three back-to-back would make for a wonderful re-reading experience.
—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
August 8, 2022
I started reading this book without knowing anything about it; I think I read the synopsis at some point, but had forgotten it by the time I got to it. It has a fun beginning; an ex-flight nurse moves from a big city to a small town, is conned into adopting his landlady’s dog, and when he immediately loses the dog, he meets his widowed neighbor lady. Then, this neighbor turns out to be his boss, and the adoptive mother of the son the nurse came to town to find! Of course, the plot is pretty predictable the rest of the way through, although I really enjoyed a few of the scenes. The one about riding the donkey is especially funny. If you love clean romances with a Christian flavor, you’ll like this book. It’s not my favorite genre, but is good in its field.
I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
August 1, 2022
New beginnings and a chance to make up for lost time.
Retired nurse Harrison Mitchell is surprised to learn that he has an adult son, so he moves to Natchez in hopes of reconnecting with his son. He is surprised to find that his neighbor and new boss is also his son's adoptive mom, Anise Armstrong.
A wonderful story from beginning to end, filled with faith, family, friendship, and new starts. I loved revisiting the Armstrong family in Natchez, catching up with Grannie, Jase, Abe and their families. I was so happy to see Anise getting a story and a chance at happiness, she is so passionate about serving the community and I thought that she and Harrison made a great team. I liked that Harrison helped to shoulder the heavy load that Anise had taken up on herself, and helped her see that she couldn't do it all alone.
Such an enjoyable, heartwarming read that brought a smile to my face. I loved the close knit family and Grannie's matchmaking ways, there was great interaction, strong faith, and endearing characters. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Retired nurse Harrison Mitchell is surprised to learn that he has an adult son, so he moves to Natchez in hopes of reconnecting with his son. He is surprised to find that his neighbor and new boss is also his son's adoptive mom, Anise Armstrong.
A wonderful story from beginning to end, filled with faith, family, friendship, and new starts. I loved revisiting the Armstrong family in Natchez, catching up with Grannie, Jase, Abe and their families. I was so happy to see Anise getting a story and a chance at happiness, she is so passionate about serving the community and I thought that she and Harrison made a great team. I liked that Harrison helped to shoulder the heavy load that Anise had taken up on herself, and helped her see that she couldn't do it all alone.
Such an enjoyable, heartwarming read that brought a smile to my face. I loved the close knit family and Grannie's matchmaking ways, there was great interaction, strong faith, and endearing characters. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 1, 2022
In Embracing His Past, Christina Miller explores new ways in which families are formed. In order to get the whole scope of this Natchez, Mississippi crew, I highly recommend picking up Miller’s previous two books (Finding His Family and An Orphan’s Hope).
I thoroughly enjoyed how Miller took a couple of tropes and breathed new life into them. First, there is the adoption trope which also has an element of secret child. But instead of getting the viewpoint of the person adopted, we get to see what might go through the mind of the parent and the child is now an adult himself with children of his own. This is also a later-in-life romance with two people who have previously been married and come out of those relationships disillusioned.
The mobile clinic, the two dogs, and the Natchez matchmakers all round out a book about forgiving yourself and taking a chance on loving others.
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.
I thoroughly enjoyed how Miller took a couple of tropes and breathed new life into them. First, there is the adoption trope which also has an element of secret child. But instead of getting the viewpoint of the person adopted, we get to see what might go through the mind of the parent and the child is now an adult himself with children of his own. This is also a later-in-life romance with two people who have previously been married and come out of those relationships disillusioned.
The mobile clinic, the two dogs, and the Natchez matchmakers all round out a book about forgiving yourself and taking a chance on loving others.
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.
August 8, 2022
My complete review can be found at https://novelsalive.com/2022/08/08/4-...
August 16, 2022
I really enjoy Love Inspired Books and Christina Miller is a new to me author. Embracing His Past by Christina Miller is the latest LOVE Inspired book I have read.
Harrison Mitchell is a widower and just learned that he has an adult son that he never knew about. Harrison is eager to find his son and he hopes to build a relationship. He moves to Natchez, Mississippi to begin his search. He finds his son and also discovers his new boss is his son's adoptive mother.
I really enjoyed how the story came together. Harrison is a wonderful guy who immediately changes his life plans and sets out to find the son he just learned about. He wasn't expecting to also find love in Mississippi, but he does. His relationship with Anise, the adoptive mother of his son and his boss, was a sweet romance. I enjoyed seeing how he and his son began to build a relationship. The book had some twists and turns and it kept me focused to continue reading. The book was a fast and easy read and very enjoyable! GREAT BOOK!
Harrison Mitchell is a widower and just learned that he has an adult son that he never knew about. Harrison is eager to find his son and he hopes to build a relationship. He moves to Natchez, Mississippi to begin his search. He finds his son and also discovers his new boss is his son's adoptive mother.
I really enjoyed how the story came together. Harrison is a wonderful guy who immediately changes his life plans and sets out to find the son he just learned about. He wasn't expecting to also find love in Mississippi, but he does. His relationship with Anise, the adoptive mother of his son and his boss, was a sweet romance. I enjoyed seeing how he and his son began to build a relationship. The book had some twists and turns and it kept me focused to continue reading. The book was a fast and easy read and very enjoyable! GREAT BOOK!
August 19, 2022
An uplifting Love Inspired book by Christina Miller called Embracing His Past. This story is about Harrison and Anise and how they find love at a later age.
With both their trauma’s from previous relationships, Harrison and Anise aren’t looking for love. But the care for the community of Natchez brings them together. Harrison has moved from the city to the small town of Natchez to finally meet his son. But when he realizes Anise has raised his son, he knows that he has to be careful to build a relationship with his son.
The author did an amazing job writing this book. Although I don’t read that many books about more mature characters, it didn’t bother me in this book. Also, the faith was beautifully woven into the story.
If you love stories where characters get a chance for love at a later age, with christian elements, then this is definitely a book for you.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author through JustRead Tours and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are My own.
With both their trauma’s from previous relationships, Harrison and Anise aren’t looking for love. But the care for the community of Natchez brings them together. Harrison has moved from the city to the small town of Natchez to finally meet his son. But when he realizes Anise has raised his son, he knows that he has to be careful to build a relationship with his son.
The author did an amazing job writing this book. Although I don’t read that many books about more mature characters, it didn’t bother me in this book. Also, the faith was beautifully woven into the story.
If you love stories where characters get a chance for love at a later age, with christian elements, then this is definitely a book for you.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author through JustRead Tours and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are My own.
January 27, 2025
This inspiration story offers the warmth of a church-going family to its readers.
I just finished reading your well-written Embracing His Past. You certainly used your God-given gift to serve the Lord. Your words offered me an inviting seat in the pews of the Natchez church. I could also see that you must have a God-given gift of cooking for your fellow church members, if the descriptions in your story reflect your own experiences. I could taste the grits and the guacamole. I found the donkey scene very amusing. I liked the way that you revealed the mysteries early in your novel, which made the journey more important than the destination. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book in the Kroger parking lot each morning as I sipped my Starbucks in my car. I look forward to reading more of your stories.
I just finished reading your well-written Embracing His Past. You certainly used your God-given gift to serve the Lord. Your words offered me an inviting seat in the pews of the Natchez church. I could also see that you must have a God-given gift of cooking for your fellow church members, if the descriptions in your story reflect your own experiences. I could taste the grits and the guacamole. I found the donkey scene very amusing. I liked the way that you revealed the mysteries early in your novel, which made the journey more important than the destination. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book in the Kroger parking lot each morning as I sipped my Starbucks in my car. I look forward to reading more of your stories.
August 24, 2022
This book was different, in a great way. Christina Miller took characters from an older generation and used them to drive home some fantastic points. I LOVE when I see characters from middle age and older because I think there is so much wisdom in their experience.
I thought Harrison was so selfless and his love for his son was easy to see. I also loved Anise was very protective and sweet.
It is I believe book three in a series and can be read as a stand alone but I like reading all of them in order since some of the characters are in all three stories.
I definitely recommend reading this series and Embracing His Past. And I am hoping Christina Miller continues to write more books in this series.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
I thought Harrison was so selfless and his love for his son was easy to see. I also loved Anise was very protective and sweet.
It is I believe book three in a series and can be read as a stand alone but I like reading all of them in order since some of the characters are in all three stories.
I definitely recommend reading this series and Embracing His Past. And I am hoping Christina Miller continues to write more books in this series.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
August 16, 2022
I enjoyed this clean, Love Inspired inspirational story!
Great town, great characters, with an easy to read, feel good plot. Family, love and second chances were all themes in this quick read. I enjoyed reading about Anise and Harrisons love for nursing and helping others. I also enjoyed reading about Harrisons recent family discovery and his growing love for his new small town and job.
I really enjoyed reading this nice, feel good, family story about second chances!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
Great town, great characters, with an easy to read, feel good plot. Family, love and second chances were all themes in this quick read. I enjoyed reading about Anise and Harrisons love for nursing and helping others. I also enjoyed reading about Harrisons recent family discovery and his growing love for his new small town and job.
I really enjoyed reading this nice, feel good, family story about second chances!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2023
I bought this book because of the cute dog on the front, and Tiny Romeo did not disappoint. The actual story was sweet too. A love story with older characters was a nice change. The ending was a little quick, but the rest of the plot progressed at a nice pace. And the side characters, especially Miss Eunice, were wonderful.
June 4, 2022
very uplifting story about family finding his child
January 31, 2023
3.5 stars
Read
February 23, 2023Very good.
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