What do you think?
Rate this book
Road to Refuge #3
The Bridge Between Us
An Unexpected Reunion . . . A Second Chance at Love
Jesse Donovan is a changed man. Now a Christian and a successful building contractor, he’s dedicated to taking responsibility for his self-centered past. That includes welcoming the teenage boy he didn’t know he fathered. When the boy’s mother walks into Jesse’s office, their son has run away from home and is on a dangerous road, travelling with a friend who isn’t a friend at all.
Maeryn Scott once loved Jesse Donovan, only to be abandoned without even a goodbye. Her love for him died suddenly—or so she thought. Now, with her son in danger and determined to confront his father, Maeryn must face the conflicting needs of her son and her own heart. Who is Jesse now? Can she trust him? Falling in love again is the last thing Maeryn wants to do—especially with a man who will turn her world upside down.
Jesse Donovan is a changed man. Now a Christian and a successful building contractor, he’s dedicated to taking responsibility for his self-centered past. That includes welcoming the teenage boy he didn’t know he fathered. When the boy’s mother walks into Jesse’s office, their son has run away from home and is on a dangerous road, travelling with a friend who isn’t a friend at all.
Maeryn Scott once loved Jesse Donovan, only to be abandoned without even a goodbye. Her love for him died suddenly—or so she thought. Now, with her son in danger and determined to confront his father, Maeryn must face the conflicting needs of her son and her own heart. Who is Jesse now? Can she trust him? Falling in love again is the last thing Maeryn wants to do—especially with a man who will turn her world upside down.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2022
17 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Bylin
49 books491 followersIf someone had told me twenty years ago that I'd be the author of 20 books, I'd have fallen off my chair. I’m still amazed to see my novels on Goodreads, Amazon, and occasionally the shelves at Walmart.
More than anything, I delight in telling stories that tackle tough issues with faith and compassion. One my most challenging books, Together With You, won the RWA FHL Readers Choice Award for Best Contemporary Romance. I was equally thrilled when The Two of Us made it to the shelves in Target as part of the "Target Recommends" program.
Before writing contemporaries, I wrote westerns for Harlequin Historical and Love Inspired Historical. The LIHs are clean reads. The Harlequin Historicals (no brown banner like the LIHs) were written for the mainstream market. They have Christian themes but gritty content. Some readers won’t care for the language and love scenes. (If you want to know why I wrote them, the story is on my website.)
My two most recent books are independently published. When He Found Me and A Gift to Cherish are a mix of romance and women’s fiction and part of The Road to Refuge series. These stories are particularly close to my heart.
My husband and I now make our home in Lexington, Kentucky, but I’m a California girl at heart. I hope you enjoy my books! For more information, visit https://www.victoriabylin.com
More than anything, I delight in telling stories that tackle tough issues with faith and compassion. One my most challenging books, Together With You, won the RWA FHL Readers Choice Award for Best Contemporary Romance. I was equally thrilled when The Two of Us made it to the shelves in Target as part of the "Target Recommends" program.
Before writing contemporaries, I wrote westerns for Harlequin Historical and Love Inspired Historical. The LIHs are clean reads. The Harlequin Historicals (no brown banner like the LIHs) were written for the mainstream market. They have Christian themes but gritty content. Some readers won’t care for the language and love scenes. (If you want to know why I wrote them, the story is on my website.)
My two most recent books are independently published. When He Found Me and A Gift to Cherish are a mix of romance and women’s fiction and part of The Road to Refuge series. These stories are particularly close to my heart.
My husband and I now make our home in Lexington, Kentucky, but I’m a California girl at heart. I hope you enjoy my books! For more information, visit https://www.victoriabylin.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 20, 2022
This story tugged my heart in all kinds of directions! The author is not afraid to tackle the tough issues and paints characters in a true light. The characters feel like real people with real doubts and fears. They also sometimes let anger get in the way and make bad decisions. That was especially the case for Tim, the teenager in the story.
Speaking of bad decisions, Tim’s father, Jesse, made plenty back when he was a teenager and young man. Now he has a past riddled with alcoholism, prison time, and other things that he regrets. However, what he doesn’t regret is the fact that he now trusts in God for all things. He also doesn’t regret discovering that he is a father and reconnecting with the one woman he has always loved. Maeryn has made mistakes in the past, too. And her worry and reluctance to address Tim’s desire to meet his father ends up leading to Tim making the bad decisions he begins to make in the novel.
I enjoyed this story from start to finish, even as I felt frustration and concern for Tim. I appreciated the way Jesse and Maeryn worked together and began to open up about things. The straightforward way that Jesse dealt with issues that arose helped them navigate problems without a lot of misunderstandings. I loved reading about their second chance at love. The troubles Tim faced and the potential consequences for his actions also seemed realistic to me.
The author wrote a fun note at the end of the story about what she would have written in an epilogue. I definitely appreciated that, as I wished that an epilogue had been there. I love epilogues and they help me to feel that the story is completely wrapped up.
(4.5 stars)
I read this book on Kindle Unlimited, but I also received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Speaking of bad decisions, Tim’s father, Jesse, made plenty back when he was a teenager and young man. Now he has a past riddled with alcoholism, prison time, and other things that he regrets. However, what he doesn’t regret is the fact that he now trusts in God for all things. He also doesn’t regret discovering that he is a father and reconnecting with the one woman he has always loved. Maeryn has made mistakes in the past, too. And her worry and reluctance to address Tim’s desire to meet his father ends up leading to Tim making the bad decisions he begins to make in the novel.
I enjoyed this story from start to finish, even as I felt frustration and concern for Tim. I appreciated the way Jesse and Maeryn worked together and began to open up about things. The straightforward way that Jesse dealt with issues that arose helped them navigate problems without a lot of misunderstandings. I loved reading about their second chance at love. The troubles Tim faced and the potential consequences for his actions also seemed realistic to me.
The author wrote a fun note at the end of the story about what she would have written in an epilogue. I definitely appreciated that, as I wished that an epilogue had been there. I love epilogues and they help me to feel that the story is completely wrapped up.
(4.5 stars)
I read this book on Kindle Unlimited, but I also received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 31, 2022
The Bridge Between Us is one of the best books I've read this year! It's an absolutely outstanding story so powerful I was stunned by it! It has everything I look for in a heart stirring inspirational story, real people, real struggles, real emotions all pointing to a real relationship with God as the key.
Jesse Donovan was a bad boy gone wild traveling the roads in need of redemption. He found the beginnings of that while working at Aunt Gladdy's farm in the Shenandoah Valley. He also found young love with Maeryn Scott and enjoyed the summer of her eighteenth year with her. But when Maeryn started talking about giving up college to have a future with him, he did what he thought was the most selfless thing he could do, left her behind without so much as a goodbye.
Fifteen years later Maeryn's son Tim finds an old laptop with pictures he's never seen of a man who looks just like him. That discovery sets angry yet curious Tim on a cross country quest to confront the father he never knew. Maeryn and Jesse must set aside the pain of the past and work together to find their son before the friend Tim's traveling with brings danger to their doorstep.
This family's restoration story is so compelling, so captivating, I couldn't stop turning the pages. More than once I held my breath in fear, and I lost count of the times I got so choked up I had to stop for a minute and collect myself. This story made me feel all the emotions, a sons search for true identity, a desperate mother searching for her son while learning to trust, a redeemed man trying to right his past wrongs still knowing he's loved by God.
Victoria Bylin writes refreshingly honest true life stories so vivid and realistic they don't feel like fiction at all. That's a testament to her masterful writing, her understanding of human nature and her deep compassion for those in need of redemption.
I highly recommend The Bridge Between Us and hope readers will join me in cheering for more Refuge stories from Victoria Bylin!
Jesse Donovan was a bad boy gone wild traveling the roads in need of redemption. He found the beginnings of that while working at Aunt Gladdy's farm in the Shenandoah Valley. He also found young love with Maeryn Scott and enjoyed the summer of her eighteenth year with her. But when Maeryn started talking about giving up college to have a future with him, he did what he thought was the most selfless thing he could do, left her behind without so much as a goodbye.
Fifteen years later Maeryn's son Tim finds an old laptop with pictures he's never seen of a man who looks just like him. That discovery sets angry yet curious Tim on a cross country quest to confront the father he never knew. Maeryn and Jesse must set aside the pain of the past and work together to find their son before the friend Tim's traveling with brings danger to their doorstep.
This family's restoration story is so compelling, so captivating, I couldn't stop turning the pages. More than once I held my breath in fear, and I lost count of the times I got so choked up I had to stop for a minute and collect myself. This story made me feel all the emotions, a sons search for true identity, a desperate mother searching for her son while learning to trust, a redeemed man trying to right his past wrongs still knowing he's loved by God.
Victoria Bylin writes refreshingly honest true life stories so vivid and realistic they don't feel like fiction at all. That's a testament to her masterful writing, her understanding of human nature and her deep compassion for those in need of redemption.
I highly recommend The Bridge Between Us and hope readers will join me in cheering for more Refuge stories from Victoria Bylin!
October 10, 2022
Author Victoria Bylin takes readers back to Refuge, Wyoming in her third book in her Road to Refuge series. This story is about God’s grace, past mistakes coming back to haunt, change or heart, and second chance romance. Readers will come to know the main characters and start rooting for Jesse and Maeryn, as well as their son, Tim, to figure out forgiveness and their new family dynamics. A powerful and heartfelt story that will deeply touch readers as they fall in love with these flawed and personable characters. This is a charming story that readers will remember long after the last page is turned.
Series: Road to Refuge
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: August 2, 2022
Number of pages:374
Other books in the series:
1-When He Found Me
2-A Gift to Cherish
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Road to Refuge
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: August 2, 2022
Number of pages:374
Other books in the series:
1-When He Found Me
2-A Gift to Cherish
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
September 19, 2022
This is my first book by this author and I was definitely impressed. I must say that she did a great job at putting so much emotion in this book. This is a story about people handling some very difficult situations in their lives. There is strong theme of reconciliation and extending each other grace throughout the story. God is the only one that can heal our pasts and that was evident in this story.
There is so many emotions going on in this book and I think perhaps that threw me off a little. I don't think I was quite prepared for that. The author almost dissects every characters personal emotions and lays it all out for you to read. While relatable to some I found this to be just a tad bit much for me.
Overall I thought it was a good story. This is part of a series and I think reading the first book may give you a bit more insight on where the characters are coming from. That being said I haven't read any of the other ones and I followed this one pretty well. But I am sure I would've connected more with the characters if I had known a bit more of their backgrounds. I would definitely read more from this author.
I received a digital copy of this book from Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
There is so many emotions going on in this book and I think perhaps that threw me off a little. I don't think I was quite prepared for that. The author almost dissects every characters personal emotions and lays it all out for you to read. While relatable to some I found this to be just a tad bit much for me.
Overall I thought it was a good story. This is part of a series and I think reading the first book may give you a bit more insight on where the characters are coming from. That being said I haven't read any of the other ones and I followed this one pretty well. But I am sure I would've connected more with the characters if I had known a bit more of their backgrounds. I would definitely read more from this author.
I received a digital copy of this book from Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 21, 2022
Jesse Donovan has made some bad choices but he's now a changed man! The drugs, alcohol, and prison term that were a part of his past are now behind him, and he's found the joy that comes from loving and trusting God. He's also just learned that he has a 15-year-old son. Will his faith be strong enough to overcome this latest challenge? Can Jesse help his son Tim avoid the mistakes he once made?
The Bridge Between Us has special characters that I could easily accept as friends and realistic situations that are very common but I was especially drawn to its strong faith message. Author Victoria Bylin reminds us that trust in God and a willingness to forgive are essential, but they don't always happen in an instant. I recommend this book to all who enjoy second chance stories and Christian romance.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book. There was no obligation for a positive review.
The Bridge Between Us has special characters that I could easily accept as friends and realistic situations that are very common but I was especially drawn to its strong faith message. Author Victoria Bylin reminds us that trust in God and a willingness to forgive are essential, but they don't always happen in an instant. I recommend this book to all who enjoy second chance stories and Christian romance.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book. There was no obligation for a positive review.
September 12, 2022
"When a man spent time on his knees, he was required to stand tall. Anything else implied that what Christ did on the cross wasn't enough."
I've enjoyed the other books in Road to Refuge series and it was nice to get Jesse's story in the third book. I loved getting to know Jesse's past a bit more and his rock solid faith was inspirational. Maeryn was a lovable character who endured many difficulties but is now shifting to joy of parenting a teenage boy. The theme of living and giving grace was powerful and learning to reconcile the sin of mankind with the goodness of a loving God was quite emotional. The plot was relatively predictable but the sweetness of redemption woven throughout the book was just what I needed.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I've enjoyed the other books in Road to Refuge series and it was nice to get Jesse's story in the third book. I loved getting to know Jesse's past a bit more and his rock solid faith was inspirational. Maeryn was a lovable character who endured many difficulties but is now shifting to joy of parenting a teenage boy. The theme of living and giving grace was powerful and learning to reconcile the sin of mankind with the goodness of a loving God was quite emotional. The plot was relatively predictable but the sweetness of redemption woven throughout the book was just what I needed.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
August 2, 2022
"Jesse Donovan has messed up plenty of times. But now one mess up has come back big time. Maeryn Scott was there during that mistake and her son now wants to meet his dad--the one who doesn't know he exists.
Victoria Bylin has crafted a wonderful story of how these people handle extremely difficult situations that crop up in their lives. There is a lot of emotion in this book and she handles it all very well. We don't just see one character's pain, but she fleshes out all of them with their hurts and anxieties and how they deal with these life-altering situations. Very moving and difficult to put down, this one is a must read. P.S. You'll love the basement!
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review here is completely my own opinion.
Victoria Bylin has crafted a wonderful story of how these people handle extremely difficult situations that crop up in their lives. There is a lot of emotion in this book and she handles it all very well. We don't just see one character's pain, but she fleshes out all of them with their hurts and anxieties and how they deal with these life-altering situations. Very moving and difficult to put down, this one is a must read. P.S. You'll love the basement!
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review here is completely my own opinion.
June 9, 2023
Author here! I hope readers enjoy meeting Jesse, Maeryn and their son Tim. Like all my stories, this one is about people coming to grips with big changes in their lives. It's a romance, but it's also about reconciling the past, forgiveness, and growing up.
It's book 3 in the Road to Refuge but it can easily be read as a stand-alone. Happy reading!
It's book 3 in the Road to Refuge but it can easily be read as a stand-alone. Happy reading!
October 2, 2022
What do you do on a rainy, fall day? You start a new book by a new author and read! This story was a breath of fresh air. I've been in a reading slump for a while, and this story is exactly what I needed. I realize this is book three, but it felt like a standalone to me. Of course, now I want to go back and read the first two stories. I have to admit, I don't know the last time I read an entire story in one day.
Can I just say that the faith thread of this story was my absolute favorite! I love an author who isn't afraid to put Christ smack dab in the center of her stories! It didn't feel pushed or preachy. It felt like the characters were experiencing a lot of heavy stuff and either relying on the Lord or wrestling with Him in the midst of it all.
I liked Maeryn from the start. She's a single mom trying to make ends meet while keeping it all together with her son. And whew, her son, Tim, is a handful at 15 yrs old! His life is upended when he finds photos of his dad and responds like many kids his age would. His choices have a snowball effect and the story ramps up from there. If we think Timmy is a handful, Gretchen, Maeryn's boss, is quite the mean jeans who also cares for her. Poor Maeryn can't catch a break.
Jesse has been through a lot, which makes his entrance to Tim's life a good one and at just the right time! It's a fine balance of how Jesse comes alongside his newly found son and respecting Maeryn's parenting. I really appreciate how the author played this out throughout the story. There was definitely one spot where I thought, "Oh gosh, Maeryn isn't going to be happy when she finds out..."
There are tense moments throughout the story (pretty much from the start), again because of the choices Tim makes. Here, as well, the author does a fantastic job of showing us teen angst!
Reading this story in a day clearly gives you an idea of how much I enjoyed it!
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
Can I just say that the faith thread of this story was my absolute favorite! I love an author who isn't afraid to put Christ smack dab in the center of her stories! It didn't feel pushed or preachy. It felt like the characters were experiencing a lot of heavy stuff and either relying on the Lord or wrestling with Him in the midst of it all.
I liked Maeryn from the start. She's a single mom trying to make ends meet while keeping it all together with her son. And whew, her son, Tim, is a handful at 15 yrs old! His life is upended when he finds photos of his dad and responds like many kids his age would. His choices have a snowball effect and the story ramps up from there. If we think Timmy is a handful, Gretchen, Maeryn's boss, is quite the mean jeans who also cares for her. Poor Maeryn can't catch a break.
Jesse has been through a lot, which makes his entrance to Tim's life a good one and at just the right time! It's a fine balance of how Jesse comes alongside his newly found son and respecting Maeryn's parenting. I really appreciate how the author played this out throughout the story. There was definitely one spot where I thought, "Oh gosh, Maeryn isn't going to be happy when she finds out..."
There are tense moments throughout the story (pretty much from the start), again because of the choices Tim makes. Here, as well, the author does a fantastic job of showing us teen angst!
Reading this story in a day clearly gives you an idea of how much I enjoyed it!
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
September 21, 2022
I have a habit of collecting novels from authors I'm sure I'll enjoy ... and then leaving them on my TBR shelves when newer books catch my attention. Victoria Bylin was one of those authors until I read The Bridge Between Us. This was a powerful story with themes of forgiveness and second chances, and I definitely plan to move her books to the top of my towering TBR stack.
Just before Maeryn leaves for college, she has a passionate romance with Jesse, an itinerant worker on her grandmother's farm. Then he ghosts her and she discovers she's pregnant. Forced to change her future plans, she raises Tim alone for 15 years. While they've created a good life in Virginia, Tim's lack of knowledge about his father - he's never even seen his photo - is a constant ache. When Tim discovers Jesse is living in Wyoming, he takes off on a spur-of-the-moment road trip, without his mom's knowledge or permission, to confront him. What unfolds is a series of events that are better and worse than anything Tim could imagine.
This is one of my favorite types of novels - Christian fiction with characters that are firmly grounded in real life with faith elements that are organically woven into the plot. Characters experience a full range of emotions including frustration, anger, strong physical attraction, etc. and and don't always make the best choices. I appreciated that the author conveyed swearing without putting the words on the page.
The Bridge Between Us is book 3 in the Road to Refuge series. It's the first one I've read and didn't feel like I missed any plot points, but could guess the characters who were featured in the first two novels.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this novel for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review; all thoughts are my own.
Just before Maeryn leaves for college, she has a passionate romance with Jesse, an itinerant worker on her grandmother's farm. Then he ghosts her and she discovers she's pregnant. Forced to change her future plans, she raises Tim alone for 15 years. While they've created a good life in Virginia, Tim's lack of knowledge about his father - he's never even seen his photo - is a constant ache. When Tim discovers Jesse is living in Wyoming, he takes off on a spur-of-the-moment road trip, without his mom's knowledge or permission, to confront him. What unfolds is a series of events that are better and worse than anything Tim could imagine.
This is one of my favorite types of novels - Christian fiction with characters that are firmly grounded in real life with faith elements that are organically woven into the plot. Characters experience a full range of emotions including frustration, anger, strong physical attraction, etc. and and don't always make the best choices. I appreciated that the author conveyed swearing without putting the words on the page.
The Bridge Between Us is book 3 in the Road to Refuge series. It's the first one I've read and didn't feel like I missed any plot points, but could guess the characters who were featured in the first two novels.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this novel for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review; all thoughts are my own.
September 24, 2022
This was a wonderful story about an incredibly hard situation. I liked seeing the journey Maeryn and Tim, their son, was on and how they started out angry and distrusting of Jesse but saw the kind of man he had become and started to trust and believe he truly did love them. I was a little frustrated with Tim and how he trusted his friend and made some potentially deadly choices. I loved that we got the three points of view so we could get inside their heads. The author wrote the emotions well. There were also some really great conversations about faith and trusting God as Jesse had hit rock bottom before and really depended on God to fight his demons. He was an amazing example to Maeryn and Tim and to me, too! There was some sweet romance and a little action. This is book three in the series and I remember enjoying the first one but hadn't read book two yet. It's not required to enjoy this story. I highly recommend it!
I received a free pdf copy of this book from Just Reads. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free pdf copy of this book from Just Reads. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2022
Victoria Bylin's Road to Refuge series is one of my favorite series and book 3, The Bridge Between US, is one of the best books I've read this year! I was immediately pulled into the story and the characters' lives as soon as I began reading. Victoria has the ability to bring the characters to life on the pages as they are so easy to empathize with. Jesse has changed so much over the past decade and he knows he has made mistakes and is trying to live life how he knows he should. When his son appears his life as well as his son's mother he knows he is going to need God's help.
I love how the characters face real life struggles, must make hard decisions and show the reader that although there are challenges, God is there. I highly recommend this book and series!
I love how the characters face real life struggles, must make hard decisions and show the reader that although there are challenges, God is there. I highly recommend this book and series!
August 18, 2022
This book is everything the author promised and more! Definitely worth the wait. I give it five stars—twice! No, make that five times three, as all three main characters have compelling stories of their own. When linked together, they create one story so gripping it kept my interest piqued with every turn of a page.
Maeryn Scott and Jesse Donovan experienced young love for a brief season, but the flame of youthful passion was snuffed out by Jesse’s abrupt departure and subsequent years of being unreachable. With Jesse having completely fallen off Maeryn’s radar, Maeryn was left with a broken heart, wondering why he left and why she couldn’t find him. She was also pregnant with his child.
Unaware of Maeryn’s pregnancy, Jesse spends the next fifteen years thinking he did the right thing by leaving her to pursue her dreams of college and career. At the time, he’d been a free spirit type of guy, recklessly enjoying the pleasures of life until he became a Christian and established his own construction company.
Neither Maeryn nor Jesse completely forgot about their shared love. Maeryn, also a Christian, works hard as a single mom and raises their son Tim. At fifteen, Tim’s curiosity about his father drives him to locate the man and run miles away from home to Refuge to confront him. An older co-worker named Carter offers to give him a ride, but Carter is bad news. That part of the story will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
With Christ at the center of their relationship, Maeryn and Jesse learn how quickly a dying ember can be rekindled to a fiery flame. Each of them juggle their respective jobs as they work together to help their son through many dangerous situations and establish boundaries for themselves. This reader was often left breathless! I highly recommend The Bridge Between Us.
Maeryn Scott and Jesse Donovan experienced young love for a brief season, but the flame of youthful passion was snuffed out by Jesse’s abrupt departure and subsequent years of being unreachable. With Jesse having completely fallen off Maeryn’s radar, Maeryn was left with a broken heart, wondering why he left and why she couldn’t find him. She was also pregnant with his child.
Unaware of Maeryn’s pregnancy, Jesse spends the next fifteen years thinking he did the right thing by leaving her to pursue her dreams of college and career. At the time, he’d been a free spirit type of guy, recklessly enjoying the pleasures of life until he became a Christian and established his own construction company.
Neither Maeryn nor Jesse completely forgot about their shared love. Maeryn, also a Christian, works hard as a single mom and raises their son Tim. At fifteen, Tim’s curiosity about his father drives him to locate the man and run miles away from home to Refuge to confront him. An older co-worker named Carter offers to give him a ride, but Carter is bad news. That part of the story will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
With Christ at the center of their relationship, Maeryn and Jesse learn how quickly a dying ember can be rekindled to a fiery flame. Each of them juggle their respective jobs as they work together to help their son through many dangerous situations and establish boundaries for themselves. This reader was often left breathless! I highly recommend The Bridge Between Us.
September 13, 2022
The Bridge Between Us is the third book in the Road To Refuge series. While those who've read the previous books might notice a few familiar names, I think this one reads very well as a standalone as well.
In this story we meet Rafe's brother Jesse, who'd had his fair share of troubles in his past...This including a child he didn't know he'd fathered... until his former love showed up to announce that his now 15-year-old son Tim had taken off on a trip to come meet him. What follows is a beautiful story of faith, redemption and second chances... both in life and at romance. But of course, the path to love and family is not without it's missteps and trials. This book was quick paced and had me intrigued from the first page to the last. I found I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to this sweet family. With a beautiful message about God's redemptive power, this is a story that doesn't shy away from the tough stuff... and I absolutely loved it.
If you enjoy a good Christian romance with imperfect characters, this is certainly one to check out.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
In this story we meet Rafe's brother Jesse, who'd had his fair share of troubles in his past...This including a child he didn't know he'd fathered... until his former love showed up to announce that his now 15-year-old son Tim had taken off on a trip to come meet him. What follows is a beautiful story of faith, redemption and second chances... both in life and at romance. But of course, the path to love and family is not without it's missteps and trials. This book was quick paced and had me intrigued from the first page to the last. I found I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to this sweet family. With a beautiful message about God's redemptive power, this is a story that doesn't shy away from the tough stuff... and I absolutely loved it.
If you enjoy a good Christian romance with imperfect characters, this is certainly one to check out.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
Read
September 16, 2022In The Bridge Between Us, Victoria Bylin returns readers to Refuge, Wyoming with lots of tension and conflict in this second chance/secret child book.
For those who have been following the series, this is Jesse Donovan’s story, and what a story it is. Jesse has turned his life around from the destructive and harmful to one more intentional that is filled with grace and mercy in a way only God can change a heart.
Maeryn loves her son and the job that has been her lifeline for years, but when Tim runs away to find his father, both are in jeopardy. Tim also has a large role in this book as he is at a crossroads of where his future will lead.
Bylin pens a story with flawed characters who don’t always get things right but woven throughout are threads of forgiveness, family, and hope.
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.
For those who have been following the series, this is Jesse Donovan’s story, and what a story it is. Jesse has turned his life around from the destructive and harmful to one more intentional that is filled with grace and mercy in a way only God can change a heart.
Maeryn loves her son and the job that has been her lifeline for years, but when Tim runs away to find his father, both are in jeopardy. Tim also has a large role in this book as he is at a crossroads of where his future will lead.
Bylin pens a story with flawed characters who don’t always get things right but woven throughout are threads of forgiveness, family, and hope.
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 29, 2022
The Bridge Between Us by Victoria Bylin
The Road to Refuge Series Book Three
Jesse Donovan, brother to Rafe in book two, A Gift to Cherish. Jesse had taken the rough road. Drinking, using people, drugs. Ending up in prison changed his life. He accepted Jesus as his savior. He now lives in Refuge, Wyoming, and the business he started, Donovan Construction, is thriving and helps others like him, giving ex-cons employment. Then he gets a blast from the past with added extras.
Maeryn Scott had ended up a pregnant teenager with the father gone before she could even tell him. But, thanks to Aunt Gladdy, she had support. Maeryn got a few degrees and had a successful job that helped her keep her son, Tim, in a good school and a home. Then the bomb dropped after Tim found something while cleaning out Aunt Gladdy’s house after she passed away.
I love this series. Flawed characters who get second chances. The hard questions about God, even though it’s fiction, the stories can still stir our spiritual life and make some things more straightforward.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
The Road to Refuge Series Book Three
Jesse Donovan, brother to Rafe in book two, A Gift to Cherish. Jesse had taken the rough road. Drinking, using people, drugs. Ending up in prison changed his life. He accepted Jesus as his savior. He now lives in Refuge, Wyoming, and the business he started, Donovan Construction, is thriving and helps others like him, giving ex-cons employment. Then he gets a blast from the past with added extras.
Maeryn Scott had ended up a pregnant teenager with the father gone before she could even tell him. But, thanks to Aunt Gladdy, she had support. Maeryn got a few degrees and had a successful job that helped her keep her son, Tim, in a good school and a home. Then the bomb dropped after Tim found something while cleaning out Aunt Gladdy’s house after she passed away.
I love this series. Flawed characters who get second chances. The hard questions about God, even though it’s fiction, the stories can still stir our spiritual life and make some things more straightforward.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
August 6, 2022
Maeryn is raising her son single handedly ever since Jesse left her pregnant at age 18. When her son Tim finds a picture of his father, Maeryn is forced to face the issue. Angry at his mom for not immediately contacting his dad, Tim runs away to meet him. I liked the characters a lot-I especially liked the honest portrayal of Jesse's past-prison and addiction-and his conversion and growth to a man of honor and integrity. Themes of redemption, forgiveness, and taking responsibility for the past while focusing on the present.
August 12, 2022
I did enjoy this book. It is a story of reconciling the past with the present, growing up and working hard to be your best. It had a strong faith thread and I thought Jesse’s wisdom gleaned from his experiences and his strong faith were so spot on. It was a bit predictable but I loved the ending and the wall!
October 25, 2022
Ah, Vicki, you have done it again!!
I am privileged to consider Victoria Bylin as a friend of my heart. We have met and shared a meal. Her step-brother, now deceased was my beloved pastor. It was her late mother, however who introduced me to her novels. I discovered this one on my Kindle unread as of yesterday. As often happens when I am reading one of her stories, my heartstrings were touched and my tears began flowing. God has given her this gift of reaching deep within to deliver a blessed gift of understanding and healing that we didn't know we needed.
Thank you dear Vicki for delivering this gift of God's love and peace.
Jan Smith
I am privileged to consider Victoria Bylin as a friend of my heart. We have met and shared a meal. Her step-brother, now deceased was my beloved pastor. It was her late mother, however who introduced me to her novels. I discovered this one on my Kindle unread as of yesterday. As often happens when I am reading one of her stories, my heartstrings were touched and my tears began flowing. God has given her this gift of reaching deep within to deliver a blessed gift of understanding and healing that we didn't know we needed.
Thank you dear Vicki for delivering this gift of God's love and peace.
Jan Smith
September 17, 2022
The Bridge Between Us by Victoria Bylin is the third book in the Road To Refuge series. I have read the first 2 books in this series and I am truly enjoying this series. Book 3 is Jesse Donavan's Story. Jesse is Rafe's brother and we were introduced to both of them in Book 2.
Jesse has had a rough life but his life changed for the better when he ended up in Jail. He found Christ while in jail and his faith grew tremendously. He has been working in the Construction business he started and thriving. Maeryn Scott, his ex-girlfriend from many years ago, shows up to let him know that he has a 15yr old son, Tim. Tim has always wanted to meet his Dad and is en route to meet him but without his mom. She fears Tim is in the way of Danger and needs Jesse's help to make sure they are all safe.
I truly LOVED this book, probably my favorite out of the 3 books in this series so far! I LOVE that Jesse and Maeryn are willing to work together and give their son a good life, even though Tim is now a teenager. The Christian Faith is so much a part of this book and I really appreciate that. The book is one of Forgiveness and Second Chances. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction. FANTASTIC BOOK!
Jesse has had a rough life but his life changed for the better when he ended up in Jail. He found Christ while in jail and his faith grew tremendously. He has been working in the Construction business he started and thriving. Maeryn Scott, his ex-girlfriend from many years ago, shows up to let him know that he has a 15yr old son, Tim. Tim has always wanted to meet his Dad and is en route to meet him but without his mom. She fears Tim is in the way of Danger and needs Jesse's help to make sure they are all safe.
I truly LOVED this book, probably my favorite out of the 3 books in this series so far! I LOVE that Jesse and Maeryn are willing to work together and give their son a good life, even though Tim is now a teenager. The Christian Faith is so much a part of this book and I really appreciate that. The book is one of Forgiveness and Second Chances. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction. FANTASTIC BOOK!
September 23, 2022
THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US is a story about redemption and second-chance romance. The inspirational elements are weaved throughout with plenty of heartfelt moments as these characters try to partner together in helping their son. An entertaining and enjoyable story full of heart!
I really liked these characters. Jesse I loved! He had quite a road to redemption and yet was still a bit of a risk taker with that slight bad boy vibe, but really he was a solidly good guy who could make Maeryn's toes curl and mine along with hers. Maeryn was a very protective mom who had learned to be her son's everything and succeed on her own. She had her moments where I wanted to give her a good talking to, but Jesse had a few of those as well so it all balanced out. Then there was their son who I definitely wanted to shake a few times for so easily falling into the same patterns. It's not what I would call your usual romance. More of a mix of women's fiction and Christian romance because of the themes found in this story. Regardless, it pulled on my emotions and left me feeling sweetly content.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a book full of all the feels, with themes of redemption and second chances, as well as a coming-of-age story. From beginning to end, it pulls on the heart. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next for this author.
Content: Some references to drugs, pregnancy out of wedlock and some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I really liked these characters. Jesse I loved! He had quite a road to redemption and yet was still a bit of a risk taker with that slight bad boy vibe, but really he was a solidly good guy who could make Maeryn's toes curl and mine along with hers. Maeryn was a very protective mom who had learned to be her son's everything and succeed on her own. She had her moments where I wanted to give her a good talking to, but Jesse had a few of those as well so it all balanced out. Then there was their son who I definitely wanted to shake a few times for so easily falling into the same patterns. It's not what I would call your usual romance. More of a mix of women's fiction and Christian romance because of the themes found in this story. Regardless, it pulled on my emotions and left me feeling sweetly content.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a book full of all the feels, with themes of redemption and second chances, as well as a coming-of-age story. From beginning to end, it pulls on the heart. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next for this author.
Content: Some references to drugs, pregnancy out of wedlock and some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 4, 2022
I read this 3 book series straight through. I loved the various approaches to unplanned pregnancies and the fallible people presented.
September 21, 2022
In THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US, Maeryn is pretty amazing and exhausted. I don’t know how she’s able to accomplish all she does every day. But maybe she keeps herself so busy, that she doesn’t have to deal with what’s really bothering her. Her teenage son, Tim has been bugging her to to tell him more about his father. She tries to put him off, but the boy is relentless. He decides to take things into his own hands. Hang on tight readers! What this kid gets himself into, wow!!
My heart went out to Tim. In THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US, it is hard to read what he’s been going through and what happens to him. Trust me when I say, THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US is going to get under your skin and you aren’t going to be able to put it down! When Jesse Donovan comes back into Maeryn’s life you can’t help but feel heartbroken for everyone involved. Jesse didnt know about Tim and I didn’t like the way everyone treated him like he abandoned his son. Maeryn never told him! I am so impressed with Victoria Bylin’s writing that I can’t wait to see what she writes next. One of the best novels I’ve read this year and Ms. Bylin is going to be an author readers will seek out when looking for a riveting and well written story!
I found myself so wrapped up in Maeryn and Jesse’s lives and really wanted to see them get over their pasts and learn to be happy again. Tim makes many bad decisions while he is trying to get to his father. Jesse knows all about bad decisions and I just wanted to give him a big hug while he is trying to come to terms with how badly he messed up. Victoria Bylin knows how to engage the reader right from the very first page and gets you right into the characters lives. She makes them seem like they are your old friends and you can’t help but cheer for them as they go through life’s difficulties.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My heart went out to Tim. In THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US, it is hard to read what he’s been going through and what happens to him. Trust me when I say, THE BRIDGE BETWEEN US is going to get under your skin and you aren’t going to be able to put it down! When Jesse Donovan comes back into Maeryn’s life you can’t help but feel heartbroken for everyone involved. Jesse didnt know about Tim and I didn’t like the way everyone treated him like he abandoned his son. Maeryn never told him! I am so impressed with Victoria Bylin’s writing that I can’t wait to see what she writes next. One of the best novels I’ve read this year and Ms. Bylin is going to be an author readers will seek out when looking for a riveting and well written story!
I found myself so wrapped up in Maeryn and Jesse’s lives and really wanted to see them get over their pasts and learn to be happy again. Tim makes many bad decisions while he is trying to get to his father. Jesse knows all about bad decisions and I just wanted to give him a big hug while he is trying to come to terms with how badly he messed up. Victoria Bylin knows how to engage the reader right from the very first page and gets you right into the characters lives. She makes them seem like they are your old friends and you can’t help but cheer for them as they go through life’s difficulties.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 17, 2022
I found this story to be a delightful one of second chances and moving forward after being hurt. I had enjoyed getting to know Jesse a bit in the previous book in the series (while the characters do overlap some, these work as stand alone novels ) and seeing a glimpse of his redemption story. This book brings his story full circle when his old flame drops back in to his life and announces he has a son. I can only imagine the shock! I love how this story explores their learning to work together and Jesse using his life lessons to help raise his teenage son. This is a wonderful story to pick up and enjoy!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
September 23, 2022
"When a man spent time on his knees, he was required to stand tall. Anything else implied that what Christ did on the cross wasn't enough." This was the first book that I read from the author and was impressed with the story. A story of extending grace and reconciliation that was evident throughout the book.
The author reminds the reader forgiveness does not always happen on our time, that we are to trust God. The Bridge Between Us is a story of second chances. Jesse is a changed man, and his past is behind him, and he has finally found what was missing, the love and trust in God. Will his faith be strong enough to the news that he has a son? I fell in love with the characters and felt like I knew them.
I received a copy of the book from JustRead in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
The author reminds the reader forgiveness does not always happen on our time, that we are to trust God. The Bridge Between Us is a story of second chances. Jesse is a changed man, and his past is behind him, and he has finally found what was missing, the love and trust in God. Will his faith be strong enough to the news that he has a son? I fell in love with the characters and felt like I knew them.
I received a copy of the book from JustRead in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2022
Fantastic!
I loved everything about this story! The characters, their journeys, and the writing. Such a good story about second chances and redemption. The characters were very realistic and the faith elements seemed so natural and not at all forced. Highly recommend!
I loved everything about this story! The characters, their journeys, and the writing. Such a good story about second chances and redemption. The characters were very realistic and the faith elements seemed so natural and not at all forced. Highly recommend!
June 24, 2025
The Bridge Between Us by Victoria Bylin was wonderful on many levels.
As with the other books in the Road to Refuge Series Victoria Bylin has a strong faith based message, with real applicable situations interwoven throughout; this is book three but it can be read as a stand alone.
One of my favorite things about Victoria Bylin’s writing style is that the situations she puts her characters in are REAL, like they could happen to you or you probably know someone who has gone through similar things. It adds a level of emotional connection with her characters that I enjoy immensely.
Probably what some people would consider edgier christian fiction, since she doesn’t shy away from dealing with difficult subjects.
The Bridge Between Us was everything I had been eagerly waiting for and more. With a second chance romance, later-in-life love, and a redemption story what’s there not to like?
5 Stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
As with the other books in the Road to Refuge Series Victoria Bylin has a strong faith based message, with real applicable situations interwoven throughout; this is book three but it can be read as a stand alone.
One of my favorite things about Victoria Bylin’s writing style is that the situations she puts her characters in are REAL, like they could happen to you or you probably know someone who has gone through similar things. It adds a level of emotional connection with her characters that I enjoy immensely.
Probably what some people would consider edgier christian fiction, since she doesn’t shy away from dealing with difficult subjects.
The Bridge Between Us was everything I had been eagerly waiting for and more. With a second chance romance, later-in-life love, and a redemption story what’s there not to like?
5 Stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
August 5, 2022
I give it 3.5 stars. It was a sweet, redemptive story but in some ways a bit too predictable. I didn't find myself dying to keep reading but i didn't dislike it either. I'm a sucker for a second chance romance and for what it's worth, it did deliver on sweetness.
July 18, 2023
This was probably one of the best books I've read this year! I loved the character development, the plotline and the realism it showed. People who were flawed and doing the best they could but made better choices and became better people. People who overcame their past mistakes and through strength, good friends and following God, they were able to change. Maeryn met Jesse when she was a teenager and although they both fell in love, Jesse wasn't a good person at the time and made bad choices. Maeryn ended up pregnant but could never connect with Jesse to let him know so she raised her son, Tim, without a father. Years later, Tim has decided he wants to find his father and goes to extreme lengths to find him - running away from home. Maeryn connects with Jesse for the first time in 16 years and together they try to find Tim but also find they still have a spark. So much happens with Tim and I felt so emotional for them! There are so many themes running through this book. Maeryn dealing with her boss, Tim trying to navigate finding a father AND an unreliable friend and Jesse dealing with newfound fatherhood. All real world issues and I loved the author's way of dealing with them! A must read!
March 25, 2023
People are broken, but not without hope!
I really liked how Victoria wove faith throughout each character's life. Whether it was struggling with doubts, anger, questions or drawing from His strength so they did not slip back into old thought or habit patterns, she showed how God/Jesus wants a personal, intimate relationship with us. That is how we make it through this life, through the good and the bad. I appreciate her presenting life as it is...broken but not without the hope of redemption.
I really liked how Victoria wove faith throughout each character's life. Whether it was struggling with doubts, anger, questions or drawing from His strength so they did not slip back into old thought or habit patterns, she showed how God/Jesus wants a personal, intimate relationship with us. That is how we make it through this life, through the good and the bad. I appreciate her presenting life as it is...broken but not without the hope of redemption.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews