Muskoka Shores

Muskoka Shores #1

by Carolyn Miller

Serena Williamson loves working at Muskoka Shores, the fancy resort on Lake Muskoka, and making couples dreams come true. But after returning from a celebrity wedding to find her own hopes crumbling to dust, she sets out for self-improvement, and to prove her ex was wrong. But when a misunderstanding concerning the new assistant church minister leads to more self-doubt, can she ever really trust a man again?
Joel Wakefield is looking forward to a fresh start for himself and his sister in this beautiful small town beside Lake Muskoka. He hadn't counted on meeting a curvy cutie with a gift for hospitality and a gracious heart. Can he show her that it's what is inside that truly counts?

Genres: Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Christian Romance, Romance, Contemporary Romance

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2022

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of romance, Carolyn loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her bestselling, award-winning Regency and contemporary novels are stories that offer hope, heart, and a twist of Aussie humour. Connect with her at www.carolynmillerauthor.com where you can find our more about her books, and sign up for her newsletter to be the first to know her book news.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent start to what promises to be a wonderful new series. I adore series that draw readers into a small-town community with characters with which they can relate. The beautiful community of Muskoka Shores is a wonderful backdrop for Serena and Joel's story. Their relationship started off with some rather humorous misunderstandings that provided all the wonderful fuzzy feelings that accompany a good romcom. Ms. Miller includes a wonderful faith thread that is real-to-life, not preachy. I loved that the MC dealt with common issues, learning to find her value in how God sees her, learning to forgive and find hope.

I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Hannah Beth (Hannah's Book Cafe) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really really enjoyed this book. The theme of forgiveness and learning to recognize the devil's lies that he tells us are so important. I loved Serena and Joel together. Their chemistry was so good! I also loved the character development of Serena. She spends a lot of time during the book obsessing over her weight and her looks(something I have been guilty of myself) and you see how she grows in that, even though she still has moments of weakness in that area(yay for realistic characters 😉). I loved this book and I definitely recommend!

[Kaye Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t want this one to end! Just when we saw Serena work her way through her insecurities to realise that other people’s thoughts about her doesn’t define who she is, we had the beautiful scene with Joel declaring his love for her and Serena’s reciprocation and it’s finished!
A sweet romance from Carolyn Miller using all her well renowned skills to tell the story of Serena Williamson’s journey from self doubt and insecurity, through a broken romance and heartache to a blossoming relationship with the Assistant Pastor at her local church Despite Joel’s self imposed ban on dating members of his congregation, Serena manages to get under his guard and into his heart.
Sensitively written and again displaying Millers talent to leaving me wanting more of the story of Serena and Joel.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, but I've loved everything I've ever read by Carolyn Miller! This book really emphasizes that our worth is in how God sees us and loves us. We, especially us women, tend to place out worth on our outward appearance and what we think others think about us. Why? God made us and loves us just as we are. Yes, we should do our best to stay healthy, but our dress size doesn't define us. I absolutely loved the characters, gorgeous setting, and the romance, and I highly recommend it to inspirational romance readers!

[Rebekah Morris]

Nothing really made me interested at the start and then when boyfriend is found with roommate, I started skimming. Stopped skimming at 23% and just called it quits. Just wasn't interested.

[Brittany Searfoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this book is the beginning of a new series and can be read as a standalone, it is best to read Muskoka Blue before this in order to understand the setting and the characters.
Serena Williamson loves working at the local resort, especially when there's a wedding. She has dreams of a great future with her boyfriend, but when she finds out he has been cheating on her, she determines to improve her body with exercise and other habits in order to make herself more acceptable to others. She never counted on her attraction to the new assistant minister, even though their first meeting didn't go so well. Joel Wakefield never expected to be attracted to a woman like Serena, but as he gets to know her, he finds that what's inside is what really matters. Though there are obstacles galore, both Serena and Joel find themselves learning that God's plans are just right for them.

I have to say from the outset that Serena's story was powerful and encouraging for me, considering that I am a "plus size" woman myself and have struggled with confidence and body image issues just like her. I am so thankful that the author included Serena as a character that doesn't have a perfect exterior, since there are so many women in Christian fiction that look perfect and don't seem to struggle with normal women's issues. The cruelty of her ex and her backstabbing "friend" was sickening and maddening, to the point where I had to calm myself down after reading their scenes. While there is nothing wrong with making efforts to be healthy, the obsession with looks in this current age is heartbreaking for so many people who are deemed unworthy of love. I would like to see these issues addressed more in Christian fiction going forward, especially the needful development and growth of the inner man. The spiritual focus of this book was so helpful, the characters came to life on the page, and the setting was beautifully portrayed. I highly recommend this book and I am looking forward to returning to Muskoka in the next book!

I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reeling from a joint betrayal by her boyfriend and supposed best friend, Serena's feeling of self-worth is in tatters. Hope's derisive description of her has just enough truth in it to make it impossible to ignore - and when a newcomer, Joel (who she later discovers to be the new assistant minister), makes an unfortunate comment that reinforces her devastation, Serena realises that something needs to change. Joel regrets his words, and still more when he finds himself attracted to her despite her giving him the cold shoulder - and gradually begins to realise how much he hurt her. Can Joel redeem himself in her eyes? More to the point, can Serena come to understand and accept that her worth is based on what God thinks of her, not what people think? It's a recipe for disaster - or love...

A great start to what promises to be an exciting new series. With main characters I quickly came to feel for (particularly Serena), a great friend group supporting each other, an amusing misunderstanding, an inspiring message and a beautiful setting, this book has it all. I particularly appreciated the way that Serena's friends were always there for her when needed, and the way that both Joel and Serena helped Toni blossom again (really hoping she gets a HEA of her own sometime...). Of course, the person who grew the most over the course of the book was Serena, and it was lovely to watch - and inspiring too. I guess the one thing I might like to see a little different is that it didn't feel like Joel really made any decision on his 'don't date in the congregation' rule - just thought about it a bit and slid into dating anyway. Nevertheless, a great story and I really look forward to the next book in the series. Highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could hardly set this book down! I loved that this story does not start out as the typical man meets woman and both are attracted to each other type of romance. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of attraction and romantic tension throughout the novel, yet the way these two first meet and their initial impressions of each other are far from a typical meet cute!

Muskoka Shores is book one in a new series and it is loosely connected to the Original Six Hockey series, with the main characters from the sixth book of that series, Muskoka Blue, holding their wedding at the beginning of this novel. I had no trouble jumping into this new series, even though I have only read the first book of the Original Six Hockey series. I plan to go back and read the entire series, as that book, The Breakup Project, was a wonderful romance, too!

The author delves into some difficult topics in Muskoka Shores. She addresses body image and the stress that can create for people. Also included in the novel are a cheating boyfriend, an unplanned pregnancy, forgiving what feels unforgivable, and the importance of not allowing the enemy’s lies to undermine the fact that God created us and loves us.

I really liked Joel and Serena and adored watching as their disastrous first meeting eventually moved toward friendship and on to love. I also liked that although Serena began to try to make healthier choices and changed some habits, Joel was attracted to the entire person that Serena was and to him she was beautiful no matter what the scale might say. Their romance was such a joy to read about!

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...

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yet another sweet book in Muskoka! I love this setting. 🥰

I had mixed feelings about the body image/exercise portions of this book. I think it’s good to address, but had qualms with parts of it… one main example was near the end when the main guy character enjoyed eating his dessert, despite the fact that he’d have to go for extra runs to make up for it. And then when the girl character said she’d need to diet to make up for her dessert, he said she was perfect just the way she was. Well, he really could and should have had the same attitude about himself.
I’ve spent most of my life avoiding the diet and exercise culture, purely to keep my own body image intact. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve needed to work at losing weight (multiple pregnancies and all that)…but finally there has come a culture with focus on strengthening your body - not for big muscles, but for allowing yourself to do strong things again, like move large things or run after your escaping toddler without getting winded. 😉 and that dieting isn’t so much about avoiding certain foods or trying to work off food that you made a mistake with, but about fueling your body with the best things first, most of the time….treats aren’t mistakes, but treats, and nothing to be ashamed about.
ANYWAY, due to my personal struggles, I didn’t love every aspect of some of the “old” way of thinking, and wished it were a little more ^^ what I was describing.

I did enjoy her run scene, because my middle schooler did cross country this year and I found myself tearing up over kids I didn’t even know, because I was proud of how hard they worked - most especially my son - and so that scene touched my heart.

But I do agree with Serena that walking is better for your body overall (as opposed to running).

That’s my random soapbox - but the book was a good book. 🙃

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

This love story is for every woman who has struggled with not feeling good enough. So emotional and funny and hard-hitting with a wonderful, uplifting faith thread about being ‘enough’ in the eyes of our Father in Heaven. And the power our words hold — to build up or tear down. So impactful!

An enemies to more trope plays out to perfection as misunderstandings abound. I laughed out loud and winced in sympathy and shed a tear or two by the end. So relatable all the way through!

Fans of Carolyn Miller’s Original Six Hockey series will get a thrill over the wedding in the first chapter. I haven’t read all the books in that series (yet) so I couldn’t fully appreciate the romantic glow but there are some lovely details as Serena oversees the wedding reception and makes for a nice bridge between the series.

Of course, I adore the iconic Canadian setting and the fact that the we get to visit through two seasons. Lots of time for our hero and heroine to get sorted while readers get to appreciate the beauty in my part of the world. 🙂

I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Andrea Kummer and hoping the rest of the series comes out in audio as well. Otherwise I’ll have to mix and match with paperbacks! Gasp!

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/09/04/m...

[Rebecca Tellez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Carolyn Miller has given us a tender story set in the quiet community of Muskoka Shores with characters that feel like your neighbors and best friends. While there are some sensitive issues with two of the characters, she has treated them with compassion and care.
Serena has a lot of the same insecurities that many of us women face, letting other people’s opinions define who we are. As she learns to love herself, she makes life decisions that will have lasting consequences in her life.
Joel, a new youth pastor in this quaint community, puts his foot in his mouth right away and we get to see his journey to understanding that the world is not just black and white.
The secondary characters play an important part in this story, and I look forward to seeing them in future books of this delightful community.
The relationship between Serena and Joel developed slowly as did their own faith journeys. Journeys of understanding their worth in God and His love.
I highly recommend this book to any who loves small towns and quaint communities who want best friends that you can rejoice with, cry with, and do life with.

[Suzette Lawes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve yet to read a book by Ms. Miller that has left me disappointed, and this one is no exception. Serena and Joel’s story, following the events of Muskoka Blue, was thoroughly enjoyable. From the start, their relationship was on uncertain ground, setting a realistic tone for their evolving connection. The theme of forgiveness was woven throughout the story in a way that was clear and impactful, yet never preachy.

Serena’s initial obsession with her appearance was addressed thoughtfully, emphasizing how true beauty radiates from within. Despite her insecurities, she was portrayed as a hardworking, compassionate individual, beloved by her Sunday School students. Joel, on the other hand, was the assistant pastor at the church she attended. Both had their own emotional baggage, having been hurt by past relationships, and were hesitant to open their hearts again.

But love, as it often does, defied the boundaries they had set. Over time, Serena and Joel began to see each other as more than just friends. They became each other’s cheerleaders, and this mutual support allowed their love to grow and flourish.

[Kimberley Mcclintock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Carolyn Miller’s books. I have been so excited for this book (and the whole series) ever since we were introduced to some of these characters in Muskoka Blue (the final book in her last series, The Original Six).

For me, Serena is one of the most relatable characters I have ever read. There were so many things about her that resonated with me. So many of the lessons she had to learn were lessons I have had to learn. I love how God can use a fictional character to speak truth to me.

I loved the development of Serena and Joel’s relationship. There were so many small moments that drew them closer together, but also grew them individually. I loved the running scenes and the hospital scenes.

One of the things I loved most about this book was how emotionally invested I was right from the start. I hurt when Serena hurt, I laughed, I cried, I was all in and I loved it.

This is the first book in Carolyn Miller’s new series and I am sure you are going to love it. If you haven’t read anything by Carolyn Miller before, you are missing out. I love her contemporary books the most, but her regency books are also fantastic.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much to like about this book! From the beautiful, small town setting, wonderful characters and inspiring faith messages, I had a hard time putting this one down (or pressing pause, as I listened to the audiobook version). This story dealt with a young woman, Serena, who had self-esteem issues, felt unloved and resorted to emotional eating. Watching her transformation to believing herself a child of God and aware of his love and the love of others made for an emotionally gripping story. While Serena and Joel, the new assistant pastor, got off to a rocky start, it was fun to see their relationship blossom from friendship into more with not only heartfelt conversations, but also lots of witty banter! While I have read and loved many of this author’s historical novels, this was my first read of one of her contemporary books and I’m looking forward to reading more in this series!

[Becky of Becky's Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muskoka Shores by Carolyn Miller is a stand alone novel set in Muskoka, Canada. Main character, Serena, has all of those qualities that you really want in a good friend and works at the Muskoka Shores Resort. Joel has just come to town to be an associate pastor at her church with his sister who is single and expecting. Each of them have heavy burdens they are bearing alone. I loved walking with them through their journey to understanding each other and themselves.

The beautiful scenery and wonderful church family draws you in and invites you to stay in Muskoka. This story is filled with great banter, lovable characters and valuable life lessons. I think you will enjoy it too, and I recommend it.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

[Christie Pollard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serena has trust issues brought on by a cheating ex-boyfriend. Through a misunderstanding, Serena thinks Joel, the new associate pastor, is married. Because of a bad previous relationship, Joes has decided never to date someone in his church. How can Joel’s sister overcome the obstacles and get them together.

As with all of Carolyn’s books, great Christian principles are incorporated into the story. Issues of trust, outward beauty, forgiveness, and opinions of others of dealt with. Two quotes from the book are, “What’s most important is that you believe what God says about you,” and “God’s love is like a buoyancy vest, something she had to choose to put on, but would hold her afloat.”

I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

sweet but not shallow story

This is a sweet, but not at all shallow, story. Tucked inside the fun, the friends, the potential romance, the sad parts, and the tricky family dynamics is a story of personal, spiritual growth. Each of the main characters in this story need to grow and learn things (just like each reader does, too!), and I found the good truth shared in this story to be encouraging, challenging, and uplifting. We all need to listen to the Truth of what God thinks about us and how He sees us, but so very often, the things we listen to are the lies of the world and the deceiver.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone needing a sweet literary escape or just some good encouragement.

[Caroline Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Carolyn’s second novel set in Muskoka we meet event manager, Serena, and new assistant-pastor, Joel. This pairing start off on the wrong footing, each misunderstanding the other, all of which leads to some funny conversations and raised eyebrows. As they get better at communicating, Serena and Joel form a wonderful friendship that has plenty of moments of laughter and sweetness. One of my favourite characters is Toni, Joel’s sister. The sibling relationship between Joel and Toni is written beautifully and I’m excited that Toni will get her own book soon! Thank you Carolyn for once again taking us to Muskoka Shores. I’m already looking forward to my next journey to Muskoka.

[Denise Boldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muskoka Shores is a warm hearted romantic story that brings Muskoka, Ontario to life for the reader. Serene and Joel make great leading characters for a beautiful read with extra depth. Miller tackles trusting God and your identity in God. She fills her Muskoka Shores with descriptions of her scenes, characters and moments, which also brought about skilful character development and great romance in their relationship.

Quote: "But what’s most important is that you believe what God says about you. You need to know what He says about you, to know it, rather than just live on the rise and fall of circumstances or other people’s opinions.”

[Renate Deutsche Oma · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful start to a new series with a Canadian setting, relatable characters dealing with real life issues (Toni the single mom, Joel the pastor and caring older brother and Serena the event planner), some humorous misunderstandings, and believable resolution. My heart went out for the verbal abuse Serena received from her cheating boyfriend Dwight, but I loved how she had the courage to stand up for herself. Serena was not a boring, gullible fool, BUT a caring, hospitable friend. Christians are NOT doormats. As a Michigander, I enjoyed the small town community and for a bleak winter day a well-written romcom puts a smile on my face.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and it was entertaining. I felt for Serena who was treated so badly by her ex. I applauded her decision to work on self-improvement and cheered for her on her journey. I liked Joel who was trying to make a better life for his sister. I enjoyed Serena's and Joel's romance. I appreciated the moments of humor. I thought Andrea Kummar's narration was great, and her performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I won a copy of this audiobook through a multi-authors' giveaway. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[R.j. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun spin off of one of my favorite new contemporary fiction series. Carolyn Miller does an excellent job creating a setting that reads beautifully, even if you've never been. Plus with her fantastic characterizations, and believable plot lines, she's got a winner on her hands!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently discovered this author, and I love her books! This story is so unique and interesting! The setting of Muskoka Shores is picturesque! I also enjoyed the inside look at event coordinating!

Serena touched my heart. I related to her in many ways. Her journey towards a deeper faith was encouraging. Joel is the perfect Hallmark man!

This books themes of forgiveness and second chances are inspiring! It's hard to forgive, but God is faithful!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, this was such a sweet story. It was full of Christ's redemptive love for us. I was blessed and so thankful to receive an ARC copy of this book. I devoured this book completely, like I have her other books. It was nice to see characters from her previous hockey series too. Loved reading about the scenery too! A must read.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read! This is book is a great Christian romance that hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. It's full of emotions and you can feel every one of them. I loved it and highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book features two characters who start out as frenemies. They did not get along or understand each other. But over time, they come to realize that they are more compatible than they anticipated. A sweet story about loving others well.

This series is set in Muskoka Shores in Ontario, Canada. The books are intertwined, so I recommend reading them in order. I enjoyed the whole series!

[Mary Mccauley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the story of a young woman who struggles to learn that beauty is not about her outward appearance. People can be cruel and changing what we believe about ourselves is hard.
It has some great lessons and caused me to think about my own attitudes.
She is blessed with some faithful friends that help her through. I enjoyed the characters and the setting.

[Mia2Four · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story about how easily we believe the lies Satan tells us. Carolyn did a beautiful job of describing Serena’s discovery of how beautiful she was in God’s sight. The confusion about the new pastor was fun to watch play out. Great introduction to some new characters on the shores of Lake Muskoka.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t like rating CF books poorly, but I need to remind myself that this title was not for me in case I’m tempted to pick another book in this series up. I remember liking a Regency title by Carolyn Miller in the past, but this was the first contemporary title I’ve tried. Part of the problem might have been the audio reader, but that wasn’t the only issue I had.

[Debbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Carolyn Miller has done it again. This is a clean, enjoyable, very Christian oriented romance. Great character and plot development make this a must read. You feel like you are in the story not just as an observer from outside.