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The Cousins O'Connor #2
A Hope and a Prayer
She’s in love with her best friend.
He’s in love with her cousin.
But when the war reveals a gift so rare, will they be saved by a hope and a prayer?
As Head Nurse at 2d Hospital in Nancy, France, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy is known for her healing touch, especially when it comes to mending the wounds and spirit of her best friend, Lieutenant Bren O’Neill. When Hope’s cousin breaks Bren’s heart, Hope is always there, helping to heal him with a friendship so anointed and deep, it threatens to break her heart too.
Flying high as a daredevil aeromedical evac pilot in the European Theatre, “Lieutenant Love” O’Neill crashes and burns when the woman he loves falls for another. Depending on the support and prayers of Nurse Hope Dennehy to save him, Bren re-evaluates his free-wheeling lifestyle when he witnesses the heinous atrocities of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Suddenly nothing in life is as important as taking care of those he loves … or is it? Battling demons from his past, Bren learns that only one thing can truly save him from himself.
He’s in love with her cousin.
But when the war reveals a gift so rare, will they be saved by a hope and a prayer?
As Head Nurse at 2d Hospital in Nancy, France, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy is known for her healing touch, especially when it comes to mending the wounds and spirit of her best friend, Lieutenant Bren O’Neill. When Hope’s cousin breaks Bren’s heart, Hope is always there, helping to heal him with a friendship so anointed and deep, it threatens to break her heart too.
Flying high as a daredevil aeromedical evac pilot in the European Theatre, “Lieutenant Love” O’Neill crashes and burns when the woman he loves falls for another. Depending on the support and prayers of Nurse Hope Dennehy to save him, Bren re-evaluates his free-wheeling lifestyle when he witnesses the heinous atrocities of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Suddenly nothing in life is as important as taking care of those he loves … or is it? Battling demons from his past, Bren learns that only one thing can truly save him from himself.
502 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2022
About the author
Julie Lessman
48 books1,332 followersJulie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 8, 2022
*long, happy sigh* SO GOOD!!! This new novel is another epic story complete with the author's trademark romance, a heart-tugging redemption arc, and richly developed characters, all staying true to the author's tagline of "Passion with a Purpose." It kept me intrigued from the first to last page and did not disappoint!
Characters
As always, the characters shine, so distinct, so vivid. First up, we have the heroine Hope! She is precious. Just precious. If you need a lesson on how to create a sweet and innocent character whose moral character Elsie Dinsmore would be proud of, and yet who is actually interesting, look no further than Lieutenant Hope Dennehy. Despite her angelic sweetness that earned her the nickname St. Hope, she actually doesn't come across as an unearthly, un-relatable character! Maybe because of her flaw of timidity. Which I related with far more than I'd have liked.
I absolutely LOVED her and found her a beloved, endearing character I rooted for every page of the way! Hope's soul is just so pure. She forgives Bren time and time again. And contrary to popular belief, that's not weakness. That's strength. (Though, of course, what's not strength is just being a doormat.)
Now Bren is the exact opposite of Hope. He has an impetuous, fast-paced personality, intense and passionate in his hates and loves, and I'm pretty sure there's nothing he has a neutral feeling about. I love him, truly. And I love how Bren has a heart of literal GOLD, despite all his faults. (Hes not a Christian in the beginning, let's just put it that way.) Yes, he can be annoyingly flirtatious and seems not to care about the hearts he breaks... but at the same time, he loves hard and generously, and is so enthusiastic in his praise and affection. Just read this quote (from Hope's POV):
"True, he took affection and favors from women, but he also gave to them too, making them feel pretty, loved, and wanted, like he so often did for Hope. He could lift an old woman’s spirit just by dancing with her or inspire confidence in a cross-eyed orphan by teaching him skills in baseball. Whether building swings and a slide for the convent playground or volunteering tasks for Major Peto and the nurses, Bren was a rare person who gave of his time and talents to everyone he met, and Hope couldn’t help but love him all the more for it."
Lessman did a masterful job at showing his glaring flaws (trust me, I itched to slap him more than once) while still making him HOPELESSLY LOVEABLE. Seriously, who wouldn't love him?
The conflict in him, how he's so heartbroken over hurting Hope versus him expressly doing things he hates, it's awful. Really, Bren's *coughs* huge problems, and all the demons from his past he struggles with, set the stage perfectly for a redemption arc. *beams* And let me tell you, that did not disappoint. It was worth every dark moment.
Some other characters I must mention are dear sweet Max, suffering from crossed eyes. WHAT A DARLING. That part gave me warm chills when Hope was like, "God healed my sister! I'm not looking at you like you're a freak!" That whole situation just touched my heart. Also, Hope's nurse friends were a fun addition to the party - they have such entertaining conversations, which I intermittently laughed at, rolled my eyes at, and melted at. :D (And I noticed a lovely new character named Grace Johnson. *grins* )
That scene when Hope finally arrives home and all the O'Connors are "introduced" through that tableaux of sorts hit me with such nostalgia and bittersweet-ness, as if I've been friends with them for years and seeing how so many of them have grown up both saddens and thrills me. *wipes away tears and smiles* Not to the mention the classic O'Connor family conversations over dinner. I LIVE FOR THEM.
I absolutely can't get enough of Gabe and Hope's conversations, complete with Dubble Bubble, of course. ;) Gabe is so wonderfully pushy and blunt and I love her. (And I may have fallen in love with Alex all over again in this book...) There are many characters I'm forgetting to mention, but I'll just end here with my thoughts on Tom. *claps hands together* *offers a flat smile* *blinks* He was SO well written. I was really shocked at what happened. I have to restrain myself from any other comments on him lest spoilers slip out. :D
Well, as usual, this was the longest section in my review. What can I say, I'm a character-driven writer and reader.
Plot
There are cliffhangers and plot twists GALORE. Some of them are predictable but I have zero complaints, because it's more suspenseful when you know something's going to happen, sometimes. The ending plot twists, though, shocked me so much, I was practically on the edge of my seat, and I did not see some of those disasters coming mid-book! And the storyline involving the war was SO well written. The characters were very much involved with it - it wasn't just a mere backdrop for the story to be placed in front of. It directly impacted the characters, and the atrocities Bren witnessed... absolutely heartbreaking.
Romance
Wow, yet another rollercoaster ride of a romance!!! (Hey, alliteration! :D ) It's an unlikely love story of second chances, redemption, and unconditional love rooted in God, but only after having gone through the darkest of nights and despite colossal mistakes. I love Hope's unconditional love for Bren just entrances him. Because he doesn't yet know God, he can't really understand why she'll forgive him time and again, why she cares for him so much...but at the same time, he needs her. (THE CONFLICT IS SO GOOD!!!) Their initial friendship is innocent enough, but after attraction sparks, the love, rocky though it is, is built on that foundation of friendship and care for each other, so you can feel it's real. Which makes you as a reader care all the more. Trust me, their relationship isn't all that innocent and simple (sorry, Bren, honey, but it is former you we are talking about here *gives him a consoling pat on the back*), but unconditional love is showcased in a most beautiful way through their story.
I love how Hope (like pretty much all Julie's Christian characters) is firm that she won't marry a person who doesn't share her faith in God. Though ironically enough, the person she decides-- WHOOPS. No spoilers. :D Um, but anyway, I've come across several stories where the Christian character pursues a relationship even when the other person cleeeearly isn't a Christian. So I really appreciated seeing that principle strongly at play in this book.
Oh, and I was so happy we got plenty of Gabe and Alex as well, and seeing their relationship and how it affected Bren and Hope's so deeply was splendid. (I LOVE it when the main characters would never be in the place they are without the direct impact of the side characters. Because that's how real life works, right?) I like how the subject of boundaries in romantic relationships was briefly talked about, since the two weren't married yet. Thanks to her old wound of needing to feel loved, Gabe was clingy and wanted to go a little farther with Alex... and honestly, Alex was smart to "give in" to Gabe's incessant want for more "necking" in that moment, because that warned her that it was either only a little, or way too far, no in between (making her take the boundaries more seriously).
Writing Style
Such beautiful prose! The sentences have the same vividness and perfect word choices that I've come to admire in Julie Lessman, and it makes for a delightful, visceral reading experience, although some may find themselves glossing over the more historical bits. The dialogue also has a certain wonderfully casual swing to it, and you can totally hear the characters saying most every line. It's natural and period-appropriate, I think. Not that I lived in the '40s, but you know what I mean, I hope.
Speaking of which, the research done for this book was just amazing. It was absolutely incredible how many specific details (like the type of fabric, the kind of wood, the name of a candy, you name it) were included. I don't know how Julie Lessman did it...but she did it. *hats off*
And, it wouldn't be a Lessman book with out the puns (often in the form of character thoughts) and often subtle yet sharp-shooting, chuckle-inducing humor. I love it so much!!!!!!!!
Themes
WOW. The messages in A Hope and a Prayer were so powerful and stuck with me long after I finished the book. The overarching theme driving this epic story was that of putting God ahead of everything else in your life, whether that be you, your dreams, your friends and family, your addictions, your other passions in life, good and bad, - everything. And He will bless you for surrendering. And as in pretty much all her other books, there's also a theme of the power of prayer, which I love to see and be reminded of. Seriously, the themes were one of my favorite elements of A Hope and a Prayer! SO GOOD.
This is small, but I wanted to mention how there was a scene where God directly (and miraculously, in a way) intervenes in a character's life to keep them from heading down the path they're going. I once read a writing tip that said not to do this because it's lazy writing and just using God to fix problems doesn't require any effort on the part of the characters, thus making it unsatisfying. You know what I think about that? NOT TRUE. God does work in real life and intervene on our behalf and that's realistic for it to be in books too! (Plus, Julie Lessman is kind of a literal QUEEN at character development, so I don't think that was her taking the easy way out for the character. :D )
Content guide: Some euphemisms, slang, moderate violence, alcohol addiction, mentions of lust, things implied between married couples, intense physical attraction and romantic tension including kissing and "necking", mentions of premarital sex mentioned in the form of memories but portrayed in a Biblical light. There's one bedroom scene with kissing and caressing between the married couple, while a fast-paced conversation is happening (it is Charity and Mitch, after all, both as stubborn as they come). What it leads to is implied, but the scene cuts once the conversation ends. If you don't want to read it, skip Chapter 40 and hope you'll get the gist of what the conversation was about.
This is definitely a heavy book, though clean. It's geared for more mature readers, and I know the author didn't take the subject matter lightly in the least, and I respect her a lot for boldly dealing with these matters through a Biblical worldview. My rating would be 16+.
Overall
Julie knows how to tear my heart into shreds!!!!! She does a brilliant job of writing the characters deeper and deeper into a hole of hopelessness until you really think they're too far gone... but they're not. Her forte truly is stories of redemption. Having finished A Hope and a Prayer now, though, I need more!! I want to see Hope and Bren and Alex and Gabe's weddings, so bad, and find out what happened to Henry!!! As it is, I wait in eager and desperate suspense for the next book, or I'll have to resort to writing fanfiction. *winks* I recommend this to fans of Julie Lessman books, raw and gritty fiction, World War Two romance, and stories with life-changing spiritual messages.
One of my favorite quotes:
“You only need me to be quiet and compliant and let you be in control, a quiet soldier who will follow every order, jump at every command. But I was born for gentler things, Dr. Hannity. I was born to be needed deeply, like Bren needs me. To love deeply, like Bren needs to be loved. And,” she said with a touch of awe, “to help pull him from the fire so God can heal his scars.” (A Hope and a Prayer, Julie Lessman)
Characters
As always, the characters shine, so distinct, so vivid. First up, we have the heroine Hope! She is precious. Just precious. If you need a lesson on how to create a sweet and innocent character whose moral character Elsie Dinsmore would be proud of, and yet who is actually interesting, look no further than Lieutenant Hope Dennehy. Despite her angelic sweetness that earned her the nickname St. Hope, she actually doesn't come across as an unearthly, un-relatable character! Maybe because of her flaw of timidity. Which I related with far more than I'd have liked.
I absolutely LOVED her and found her a beloved, endearing character I rooted for every page of the way! Hope's soul is just so pure. She forgives Bren time and time again. And contrary to popular belief, that's not weakness. That's strength. (Though, of course, what's not strength is just being a doormat.)
Now Bren is the exact opposite of Hope. He has an impetuous, fast-paced personality, intense and passionate in his hates and loves, and I'm pretty sure there's nothing he has a neutral feeling about. I love him, truly. And I love how Bren has a heart of literal GOLD, despite all his faults. (Hes not a Christian in the beginning, let's just put it that way.) Yes, he can be annoyingly flirtatious and seems not to care about the hearts he breaks... but at the same time, he loves hard and generously, and is so enthusiastic in his praise and affection. Just read this quote (from Hope's POV):
"True, he took affection and favors from women, but he also gave to them too, making them feel pretty, loved, and wanted, like he so often did for Hope. He could lift an old woman’s spirit just by dancing with her or inspire confidence in a cross-eyed orphan by teaching him skills in baseball. Whether building swings and a slide for the convent playground or volunteering tasks for Major Peto and the nurses, Bren was a rare person who gave of his time and talents to everyone he met, and Hope couldn’t help but love him all the more for it."
Lessman did a masterful job at showing his glaring flaws (trust me, I itched to slap him more than once) while still making him HOPELESSLY LOVEABLE. Seriously, who wouldn't love him?
The conflict in him, how he's so heartbroken over hurting Hope versus him expressly doing things he hates, it's awful. Really, Bren's *coughs* huge problems, and all the demons from his past he struggles with, set the stage perfectly for a redemption arc. *beams* And let me tell you, that did not disappoint. It was worth every dark moment.
Some other characters I must mention are dear sweet Max, suffering from crossed eyes. WHAT A DARLING. That part gave me warm chills when Hope was like, "God healed my sister! I'm not looking at you like you're a freak!" That whole situation just touched my heart. Also, Hope's nurse friends were a fun addition to the party - they have such entertaining conversations, which I intermittently laughed at, rolled my eyes at, and melted at. :D (And I noticed a lovely new character named Grace Johnson. *grins* )
That scene when Hope finally arrives home and all the O'Connors are "introduced" through that tableaux of sorts hit me with such nostalgia and bittersweet-ness, as if I've been friends with them for years and seeing how so many of them have grown up both saddens and thrills me. *wipes away tears and smiles* Not to the mention the classic O'Connor family conversations over dinner. I LIVE FOR THEM.
I absolutely can't get enough of Gabe and Hope's conversations, complete with Dubble Bubble, of course. ;) Gabe is so wonderfully pushy and blunt and I love her. (And I may have fallen in love with Alex all over again in this book...) There are many characters I'm forgetting to mention, but I'll just end here with my thoughts on Tom. *claps hands together* *offers a flat smile* *blinks* He was SO well written. I was really shocked at what happened. I have to restrain myself from any other comments on him lest spoilers slip out. :D
Well, as usual, this was the longest section in my review. What can I say, I'm a character-driven writer and reader.
Plot
There are cliffhangers and plot twists GALORE. Some of them are predictable but I have zero complaints, because it's more suspenseful when you know something's going to happen, sometimes. The ending plot twists, though, shocked me so much, I was practically on the edge of my seat, and I did not see some of those disasters coming mid-book! And the storyline involving the war was SO well written. The characters were very much involved with it - it wasn't just a mere backdrop for the story to be placed in front of. It directly impacted the characters, and the atrocities Bren witnessed... absolutely heartbreaking.
Romance
Wow, yet another rollercoaster ride of a romance!!! (Hey, alliteration! :D ) It's an unlikely love story of second chances, redemption, and unconditional love rooted in God, but only after having gone through the darkest of nights and despite colossal mistakes. I love Hope's unconditional love for Bren just entrances him. Because he doesn't yet know God, he can't really understand why she'll forgive him time and again, why she cares for him so much...but at the same time, he needs her. (THE CONFLICT IS SO GOOD!!!) Their initial friendship is innocent enough, but after attraction sparks, the love, rocky though it is, is built on that foundation of friendship and care for each other, so you can feel it's real. Which makes you as a reader care all the more. Trust me, their relationship isn't all that innocent and simple (sorry, Bren, honey, but it is former you we are talking about here *gives him a consoling pat on the back*), but unconditional love is showcased in a most beautiful way through their story.
I love how Hope (like pretty much all Julie's Christian characters) is firm that she won't marry a person who doesn't share her faith in God. Though ironically enough, the person she decides-- WHOOPS. No spoilers. :D Um, but anyway, I've come across several stories where the Christian character pursues a relationship even when the other person cleeeearly isn't a Christian. So I really appreciated seeing that principle strongly at play in this book.
Oh, and I was so happy we got plenty of Gabe and Alex as well, and seeing their relationship and how it affected Bren and Hope's so deeply was splendid. (I LOVE it when the main characters would never be in the place they are without the direct impact of the side characters. Because that's how real life works, right?) I like how the subject of boundaries in romantic relationships was briefly talked about, since the two weren't married yet. Thanks to her old wound of needing to feel loved, Gabe was clingy and wanted to go a little farther with Alex... and honestly, Alex was smart to "give in" to Gabe's incessant want for more "necking" in that moment, because that warned her that it was either only a little, or way too far, no in between (making her take the boundaries more seriously).
Writing Style
Such beautiful prose! The sentences have the same vividness and perfect word choices that I've come to admire in Julie Lessman, and it makes for a delightful, visceral reading experience, although some may find themselves glossing over the more historical bits. The dialogue also has a certain wonderfully casual swing to it, and you can totally hear the characters saying most every line. It's natural and period-appropriate, I think. Not that I lived in the '40s, but you know what I mean, I hope.
Speaking of which, the research done for this book was just amazing. It was absolutely incredible how many specific details (like the type of fabric, the kind of wood, the name of a candy, you name it) were included. I don't know how Julie Lessman did it...but she did it. *hats off*
And, it wouldn't be a Lessman book with out the puns (often in the form of character thoughts) and often subtle yet sharp-shooting, chuckle-inducing humor. I love it so much!!!!!!!!
Themes
WOW. The messages in A Hope and a Prayer were so powerful and stuck with me long after I finished the book. The overarching theme driving this epic story was that of putting God ahead of everything else in your life, whether that be you, your dreams, your friends and family, your addictions, your other passions in life, good and bad, - everything. And He will bless you for surrendering. And as in pretty much all her other books, there's also a theme of the power of prayer, which I love to see and be reminded of. Seriously, the themes were one of my favorite elements of A Hope and a Prayer! SO GOOD.
This is small, but I wanted to mention how there was a scene where God directly (and miraculously, in a way) intervenes in a character's life to keep them from heading down the path they're going. I once read a writing tip that said not to do this because it's lazy writing and just using God to fix problems doesn't require any effort on the part of the characters, thus making it unsatisfying. You know what I think about that? NOT TRUE. God does work in real life and intervene on our behalf and that's realistic for it to be in books too! (Plus, Julie Lessman is kind of a literal QUEEN at character development, so I don't think that was her taking the easy way out for the character. :D )
Content guide: Some euphemisms, slang, moderate violence, alcohol addiction, mentions of lust, things implied between married couples, intense physical attraction and romantic tension including kissing and "necking", mentions of premarital sex mentioned in the form of memories but portrayed in a Biblical light. There's one bedroom scene with kissing and caressing between the married couple, while a fast-paced conversation is happening (it is Charity and Mitch, after all, both as stubborn as they come). What it leads to is implied, but the scene cuts once the conversation ends. If you don't want to read it, skip Chapter 40 and hope you'll get the gist of what the conversation was about.
This is definitely a heavy book, though clean. It's geared for more mature readers, and I know the author didn't take the subject matter lightly in the least, and I respect her a lot for boldly dealing with these matters through a Biblical worldview. My rating would be 16+.
Overall
Julie knows how to tear my heart into shreds!!!!! She does a brilliant job of writing the characters deeper and deeper into a hole of hopelessness until you really think they're too far gone... but they're not. Her forte truly is stories of redemption. Having finished A Hope and a Prayer now, though, I need more!! I want to see Hope and Bren and Alex and Gabe's weddings, so bad, and find out what happened to Henry!!! As it is, I wait in eager and desperate suspense for the next book, or I'll have to resort to writing fanfiction. *winks* I recommend this to fans of Julie Lessman books, raw and gritty fiction, World War Two romance, and stories with life-changing spiritual messages.
One of my favorite quotes:
“You only need me to be quiet and compliant and let you be in control, a quiet soldier who will follow every order, jump at every command. But I was born for gentler things, Dr. Hannity. I was born to be needed deeply, like Bren needs me. To love deeply, like Bren needs to be loved. And,” she said with a touch of awe, “to help pull him from the fire so God can heal his scars.” (A Hope and a Prayer, Julie Lessman)
October 8, 2022
A Hope and a Prayer was a passionate and inspiring peek inside the relationship of two best friends who were stationed in France during WWII. Hope and Bren had a close friendship and had already endured a lot together when the book opened up. They definitely endured much more as this story continued.
It was clear to me, the reader, that both of these characters cared for each other as more than friends, even before they both realized it. Yet, Hope was a smart woman to know that she did not need to allow her feelings to grow for Bren, as he was not a believer.
I really felt for Bren and the horrible childhood he had lived through. He overcame so much in life, yet couldn’t recognize God’s hand in certain events. He also tried to do things in his own power, which always seemed to fail him. But he had a good heart, which was clear in the way he cared about the orphaned child, Max, and wanted to become his guardian.
The author created a captivating tale for Bren and Hope. Their road to happiness was not an easy one and was pitted with vices that Bren could not overcome on his own. There was a strong faith message and the truth of God’s power woven throughout the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog as part of the Blog Tour and Giveaway that lasts through 10/14/22: https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
It was clear to me, the reader, that both of these characters cared for each other as more than friends, even before they both realized it. Yet, Hope was a smart woman to know that she did not need to allow her feelings to grow for Bren, as he was not a believer.
I really felt for Bren and the horrible childhood he had lived through. He overcame so much in life, yet couldn’t recognize God’s hand in certain events. He also tried to do things in his own power, which always seemed to fail him. But he had a good heart, which was clear in the way he cared about the orphaned child, Max, and wanted to become his guardian.
The author created a captivating tale for Bren and Hope. Their road to happiness was not an easy one and was pitted with vices that Bren could not overcome on his own. There was a strong faith message and the truth of God’s power woven throughout the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog as part of the Blog Tour and Giveaway that lasts through 10/14/22: https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 30, 2022
I really love the book A Hope and a Prayer on so many levels!! One is that it's by Julie Lessman and I love her books. Two it's an O'Connor family book. I am totally addicted to that family. This book follows Hope, daughter of Charity and Mitch Dennehy. Hope is a quiet, thoughtful nurse during WW2. Her best male friend-- Bren has just had his heart broken by Hope's cousin Gabe. He has been injured and is in the hospital. Hope tries to nurse him back to health and encourage him. Hope has a strong faith and would never want to be attracted to someone who didn't share her faith. What happens when she finds that she is falling for her best friend. Read the book!! It becomes available October 1 but you can PRE-ORDER the Kindle version for $ 5.99!! Get it while supplies last!!
October 15, 2022
4.5 stars
There are two things you can always count on in a Julie Lessman novel – a whole heap of toe-curlin’ kisses and a whole heap of Jesus. Because, as it turns out, Julie Lessman is madly in love with both, and she loves to prove that a whole heap of one doesn’t need to cancel out a whole heap of the other. That’s one of the many reasons I love her writing – the natural balance of romance and faith as an outpouring of the characters’ journey through life. Not to mention those characters I come to deeply care about, enough that I have followed this O’Connor family through various historical eras and contemporary romances too & still get a thrill when I see them on the pages.
Speaking of characters…. Bren O’Neill is a hero that you in equal turns love (hes such a charmer!) and want to purse whomp (he’s such a charmer! lol). Or at least shake some sense into on multiple occasions. And yet, it’s not totally his fault. He’s in bondage to addiction, after a literal lifetime of internal & external demons he’s running from and to at the same time. And, like so many of us, it doesn’t matter what anyone else says – even the people we love most – sometimes it takes being systematically stripped of everything we held dear to see that Jesus is all we need. That running to Him is the only source of joy, of peace, of redemption, and of HOPE. Lessman writes Bren’s character as only someone else who has been snatched from the pit & set on the Rock can do, and there were many occasions where I was moved to tears by, first, the desperation and then the restoration of his story.
Hope is the ideal nurse – compassionate (almost to a fault), selfless (again, almost to a fault), and warm. She’s a good leader, and her quiet steadiness usually serves her well. For all of Bren’s charms and flaws, she sees him as he really is and loves him in spite of each. As a friend. Her best friend. I had to chuckle at how often she felt the need to remind everyone of this, because it reminded me of how often I reminded everyone that this guy I was best friends with in college, and I were just friends. My grandma one day tsked at me and said, “That’s what I said about your grandpa, too!” I’ve been married to that guy for over 22 years now so I guess Grandma knew what she was talking about haha. Anyway, back to Hope… her love for God and her love for Bren are seemingly incompatible and I admired her resolve to make the right choices again and again. She’s not perfect, and Lessman is good to show us Hope’s flaws along with her strengths – a reminder for those of us ‘good girls’ that we need Jesus’ grace too.
Bottom Line: Be prepared to laugh, to cry, to want to jerk a knot in certain characters, to melt over others (sometimes the same ones you wanted to jerk a knot in), and to feel every emotion in between. And those Lessman-crafted kisses – be prepared to swoon into a breathless little puddle, too. A Hope and a Prayer takes readers on an honest journey of highs and lows, of saints and scoundrels, of the best of humanity and the worst of it. In Hope & Bren’s story, Lessman gives us layered characters to root for, swoonilicious kisses to fan over, and a tender story of grace to fill our hearts to overflowing. Another must-read from the Queen of passion-most-pure.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed on Reading Is My SuperPower
There are two things you can always count on in a Julie Lessman novel – a whole heap of toe-curlin’ kisses and a whole heap of Jesus. Because, as it turns out, Julie Lessman is madly in love with both, and she loves to prove that a whole heap of one doesn’t need to cancel out a whole heap of the other. That’s one of the many reasons I love her writing – the natural balance of romance and faith as an outpouring of the characters’ journey through life. Not to mention those characters I come to deeply care about, enough that I have followed this O’Connor family through various historical eras and contemporary romances too & still get a thrill when I see them on the pages.
Speaking of characters…. Bren O’Neill is a hero that you in equal turns love (hes such a charmer!) and want to purse whomp (he’s such a charmer! lol). Or at least shake some sense into on multiple occasions. And yet, it’s not totally his fault. He’s in bondage to addiction, after a literal lifetime of internal & external demons he’s running from and to at the same time. And, like so many of us, it doesn’t matter what anyone else says – even the people we love most – sometimes it takes being systematically stripped of everything we held dear to see that Jesus is all we need. That running to Him is the only source of joy, of peace, of redemption, and of HOPE. Lessman writes Bren’s character as only someone else who has been snatched from the pit & set on the Rock can do, and there were many occasions where I was moved to tears by, first, the desperation and then the restoration of his story.
Hope is the ideal nurse – compassionate (almost to a fault), selfless (again, almost to a fault), and warm. She’s a good leader, and her quiet steadiness usually serves her well. For all of Bren’s charms and flaws, she sees him as he really is and loves him in spite of each. As a friend. Her best friend. I had to chuckle at how often she felt the need to remind everyone of this, because it reminded me of how often I reminded everyone that this guy I was best friends with in college, and I were just friends. My grandma one day tsked at me and said, “That’s what I said about your grandpa, too!” I’ve been married to that guy for over 22 years now so I guess Grandma knew what she was talking about haha. Anyway, back to Hope… her love for God and her love for Bren are seemingly incompatible and I admired her resolve to make the right choices again and again. She’s not perfect, and Lessman is good to show us Hope’s flaws along with her strengths – a reminder for those of us ‘good girls’ that we need Jesus’ grace too.
Bottom Line: Be prepared to laugh, to cry, to want to jerk a knot in certain characters, to melt over others (sometimes the same ones you wanted to jerk a knot in), and to feel every emotion in between. And those Lessman-crafted kisses – be prepared to swoon into a breathless little puddle, too. A Hope and a Prayer takes readers on an honest journey of highs and lows, of saints and scoundrels, of the best of humanity and the worst of it. In Hope & Bren’s story, Lessman gives us layered characters to root for, swoonilicious kisses to fan over, and a tender story of grace to fill our hearts to overflowing. Another must-read from the Queen of passion-most-pure.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed on Reading Is My SuperPower
February 11, 2023
A love story with a wild emotional ride of loss, hope and redemption! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I always enjoy author Julie Lessman’s romance stories because of her passionate faith which glows from the pages of her family dynasty books. If you like to be immersed with heartfelt characters facing difficult challenges, with hope and prayer, this is a story for you.
Author Julie Lessman always gives readers a heart-searing tale involving characters you become emotionally attached to, such as Hope, Bren and sweet little Max. You believe in them, you cheer them on as they struggle, and you hope for the best resolution as they reach deeply into faith.
A Hope and a Prayer took me through many ups and downs, along with tender, sweet moments. This book is a tribute to family strength, enduring love and faithful forgiveness. I highly recommend this romance!
I always enjoy author Julie Lessman’s romance stories because of her passionate faith which glows from the pages of her family dynasty books. If you like to be immersed with heartfelt characters facing difficult challenges, with hope and prayer, this is a story for you.
Author Julie Lessman always gives readers a heart-searing tale involving characters you become emotionally attached to, such as Hope, Bren and sweet little Max. You believe in them, you cheer them on as they struggle, and you hope for the best resolution as they reach deeply into faith.
A Hope and a Prayer took me through many ups and downs, along with tender, sweet moments. This book is a tribute to family strength, enduring love and faithful forgiveness. I highly recommend this romance!
October 2, 2022
Yes... the Queen has done it again. Hope and Bren are friends... that much is clear. But... what will drive them together?
I love this storyline. Bren was charming and yes, definitely a bad boy. But his motives were deep and he was in need of grace. Saint Hope was there to grant it.
Love this book. Can't wait to read the next one. But for now, still unpacking this book slowly.
I was given a complimentary copy but this is my honest opinion.
I love this storyline. Bren was charming and yes, definitely a bad boy. But his motives were deep and he was in need of grace. Saint Hope was there to grant it.
Love this book. Can't wait to read the next one. But for now, still unpacking this book slowly.
I was given a complimentary copy but this is my honest opinion.
March 31, 2023
I absolutely loved Hope’s story!!! Ms. Lessman’s books always inspire me spirituality and give me such hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. Can’t wait for Henry’s story next!
November 27, 2024
Of all the Cousins O'Connor books so far, Hope's was the one I looked forward to most. I intended to save it for the Christmas after it came out, but as I know firsthand, the O'Connors wait for no one. I ended up glad I didn't resist the pull of A Hope and a Prayer, because it's superb. In fact, it's one of the books for which I gave Julie Lessman her coveted five stars. ;)
I couldn't wait to meet Hope Dennehy and see what she'd do with a novel to herself, and neither Hope nor Julie disappointed me. First off, Hope's last name is pronounced Den-NAY-hee, as i only found out after I'd said Denna-hey in my head for eight books (sorry, Julie)! Second and more importantly, Hope's story is lovely. She is a dedicated, faith-fueled nurse who more than earns the moniker "Saint Hope," but readers learn that since they last "saw" her as a girl, she's grown into a woman with a quiet, persistent will of iron. Her gentleness and patience clash with Brendan O'Neill, but they're just what the reckless "Lieutenant Love" needs.
As for Bren...whew! I don't think Julie Lessman has taken me on quite so wild a ride with a hero in quite a while. Like Hope, I found Bren exasperating and infuriating at times. Yet, he's as guileless as a little boy sometimes. He's got a sense of justice two miles wide, and that's saying something because so do I. I could understand how he became Hope's best friend, because if he were real, he might have been mine. That is, if I could've kept myself from melting around him; like Hope, I probably would've had to pray my socks off to keep from doing something we both regretted.
All this is not to say the secondary cast is forgettable. I enjoyed every one of them, from Hope's fellow nurses to the hospital nuns to of course, little Max and even a twist villain. I consider it a personal bonus that I got to reunite with the O'Connor family, too, and learn some new "inside information" regarding Hope's spiritual and emotional journey.
That is, one of my favorite parts of this book was seeing how Hope often felt like she needed to be more like her mom or her cousin Gabe. I commiserated there, because as Hope was feeling this, I was feeling a deep need in my own heart, almost a sense of shame. I felt ashamed that I wasn't more like Hope, particularly when she interacted with her twin, Henry, and he told her how much he appreciated her holding him together.
I remember saying, "See, Lord? This is why I've doubted my own faith and salvation over the years. This is why I've doubted your love for me, because I'm not as sweet and shy and compliant as Hope. I try to be, but as hard as I try, I can't. Not that I'm Charity or anything, we both know better. But I always think the Hopes of this world measure up, and I don't."
That's when God was kind enough to speak to me through fiction, first when Gabe reminded Hope of the banana cream pie incident and how she made herself sick hiding the truth, and then with the clear sense, "Hope Dennehy is fictional. Besides, I already have enough real Hopes. I need you, too." I remember being both convicted and touched, as well as impressed with the depth of Julie's spiritual thread. That is, it would be easy to think, "It's banana cream pie, there's nothing spiritual about this." But actually, there is, because as Hope discovered, if she--and real people--don't tell the truth about their feelings regarding something as small as too much dessert, they may end up "sick" in bigger ways later. They may end up in situations it's almost impossible to escape without permanent damage.
Besides that wonderful thread, Julie also crafted some great emotional and spiritual threads with Bren's journey. Some of those involved a bit of a twist, in that I knew he and Max would be integral to each other, but I didn't expect Bren to be involved as soon as he was or in quite the way he was. Some though, were more expected, yet surprisingly more emotional. The best one, for me, was the one where Hope figuratively and literally puts her foot down at the climax of Bren's greatest struggle. She essentially says, "No more Saint Hope, not when the life of the one I love most is at risk," and fights back. It's the epitome of someone planting a stake in the ground next to you, so your faith can survive and grow, and it's a cheer-worthy moment.
Finally, without spoilers, I want to offer kudos for what might be Julie's most unexpected plot twist to date. Number one, I can't remember her ever hiding a villain in plain sight before, let alone making him so amiable. Two, I can't remember her ever ratcheting up the obstacles to our hero and heroine's happy ending even after said villain is out of the picture. The stakes do calm down shortly after that, but there's still a non-romantic threat to Bren's happiness, one that shows how much he's grown as a man and what he's willing to do, to keep Hope and Max in his life. It all adds up to a hopeful, cozy ending perfect for the holiday season.
Overall, I remember thinking this book was so chock full of hope, you'd end up stuffed like Thanksgiving. I stand by that statement and urge you to read it, or read it again if you want. It might be the one time you'll be simultaneously stuffed and uplifted.
I couldn't wait to meet Hope Dennehy and see what she'd do with a novel to herself, and neither Hope nor Julie disappointed me. First off, Hope's last name is pronounced Den-NAY-hee, as i only found out after I'd said Denna-hey in my head for eight books (sorry, Julie)! Second and more importantly, Hope's story is lovely. She is a dedicated, faith-fueled nurse who more than earns the moniker "Saint Hope," but readers learn that since they last "saw" her as a girl, she's grown into a woman with a quiet, persistent will of iron. Her gentleness and patience clash with Brendan O'Neill, but they're just what the reckless "Lieutenant Love" needs.
As for Bren...whew! I don't think Julie Lessman has taken me on quite so wild a ride with a hero in quite a while. Like Hope, I found Bren exasperating and infuriating at times. Yet, he's as guileless as a little boy sometimes. He's got a sense of justice two miles wide, and that's saying something because so do I. I could understand how he became Hope's best friend, because if he were real, he might have been mine. That is, if I could've kept myself from melting around him; like Hope, I probably would've had to pray my socks off to keep from doing something we both regretted.
All this is not to say the secondary cast is forgettable. I enjoyed every one of them, from Hope's fellow nurses to the hospital nuns to of course, little Max and even a twist villain. I consider it a personal bonus that I got to reunite with the O'Connor family, too, and learn some new "inside information" regarding Hope's spiritual and emotional journey.
That is, one of my favorite parts of this book was seeing how Hope often felt like she needed to be more like her mom or her cousin Gabe. I commiserated there, because as Hope was feeling this, I was feeling a deep need in my own heart, almost a sense of shame. I felt ashamed that I wasn't more like Hope, particularly when she interacted with her twin, Henry, and he told her how much he appreciated her holding him together.
I remember saying, "See, Lord? This is why I've doubted my own faith and salvation over the years. This is why I've doubted your love for me, because I'm not as sweet and shy and compliant as Hope. I try to be, but as hard as I try, I can't. Not that I'm Charity or anything, we both know better. But I always think the Hopes of this world measure up, and I don't."
That's when God was kind enough to speak to me through fiction, first when Gabe reminded Hope of the banana cream pie incident and how she made herself sick hiding the truth, and then with the clear sense, "Hope Dennehy is fictional. Besides, I already have enough real Hopes. I need you, too." I remember being both convicted and touched, as well as impressed with the depth of Julie's spiritual thread. That is, it would be easy to think, "It's banana cream pie, there's nothing spiritual about this." But actually, there is, because as Hope discovered, if she--and real people--don't tell the truth about their feelings regarding something as small as too much dessert, they may end up "sick" in bigger ways later. They may end up in situations it's almost impossible to escape without permanent damage.
Besides that wonderful thread, Julie also crafted some great emotional and spiritual threads with Bren's journey. Some of those involved a bit of a twist, in that I knew he and Max would be integral to each other, but I didn't expect Bren to be involved as soon as he was or in quite the way he was. Some though, were more expected, yet surprisingly more emotional. The best one, for me, was the one where Hope figuratively and literally puts her foot down at the climax of Bren's greatest struggle. She essentially says, "No more Saint Hope, not when the life of the one I love most is at risk," and fights back. It's the epitome of someone planting a stake in the ground next to you, so your faith can survive and grow, and it's a cheer-worthy moment.
Finally, without spoilers, I want to offer kudos for what might be Julie's most unexpected plot twist to date. Number one, I can't remember her ever hiding a villain in plain sight before, let alone making him so amiable. Two, I can't remember her ever ratcheting up the obstacles to our hero and heroine's happy ending even after said villain is out of the picture. The stakes do calm down shortly after that, but there's still a non-romantic threat to Bren's happiness, one that shows how much he's grown as a man and what he's willing to do, to keep Hope and Max in his life. It all adds up to a hopeful, cozy ending perfect for the holiday season.
Overall, I remember thinking this book was so chock full of hope, you'd end up stuffed like Thanksgiving. I stand by that statement and urge you to read it, or read it again if you want. It might be the one time you'll be simultaneously stuffed and uplifted.
January 22, 2023
She’s in love with her best friend.
He’s in love with her cousin.
But when the war reveals a gift so rare,
will they be saved by a hope and a prayer?
As Head Nurse at 2d Hospital in Nancy, France, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy is known for her healing touch, especially when it comes to mending the wounds and spirit of her best friend, Lieutenant Bren O’Neill. When Hope’s cousin breaks Bren’s heart, Hope is always there, helping to heal him with a friendship so anointed and deep that it threatens to break her heart, too.
Flying high as a daredevil aeromedical evac pilot in the European Theatre, “Lieutenant Love” O’Neill crashes and burns when the woman he loves falls for another. Depending on the support and prayers of Nurse Hope Dennehy to save him, Bren re-evaluates his free-wheeling lifestyle when he witnesses the heinous atrocities of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Suddenly, nothing in life is as important as taking care of those he loves … or is it? Battling demons from his past, Bren learns that only one thing can truly save him from himself.
When Nazi Germany occupied France in 1940,the Nancy prefecture was renamed Nanzig.During the Lorraine Campaign,Nancy was liberated by the US Third Army in September 1944,at the Battle of Nancy.
The United States Committee for the Care of European Children(USCOM) organised one of the largest efforts to aid refugee children.With First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt as the organisation's chairwoman,USCOM brought more than 300 children,most of them Jewish,from southern France,Spain,and Portugal between 1940-1945.
Ohrdruf was a German forced labour and concentration camp located south of Gotha,in Thuringia,Germany.It was part of the Buchenwald camp network.It was liberated on April 4,1945 by the 4th Armoured Division of the US Army.The horrific smells and sights were overpowering and unforgettable.Bodies were piled up like wood according to late WWII veteran,David Cohen,who helped liberate the camp.A Mickey Finn is a slang term for a drink laced with a drug(especially chloral hydrate) given to someone without their knowledge in order to incapacitate them.
He’s in love with her cousin.
But when the war reveals a gift so rare,
will they be saved by a hope and a prayer?
As Head Nurse at 2d Hospital in Nancy, France, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy is known for her healing touch, especially when it comes to mending the wounds and spirit of her best friend, Lieutenant Bren O’Neill. When Hope’s cousin breaks Bren’s heart, Hope is always there, helping to heal him with a friendship so anointed and deep that it threatens to break her heart, too.
Flying high as a daredevil aeromedical evac pilot in the European Theatre, “Lieutenant Love” O’Neill crashes and burns when the woman he loves falls for another. Depending on the support and prayers of Nurse Hope Dennehy to save him, Bren re-evaluates his free-wheeling lifestyle when he witnesses the heinous atrocities of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Suddenly, nothing in life is as important as taking care of those he loves … or is it? Battling demons from his past, Bren learns that only one thing can truly save him from himself.
When Nazi Germany occupied France in 1940,the Nancy prefecture was renamed Nanzig.During the Lorraine Campaign,Nancy was liberated by the US Third Army in September 1944,at the Battle of Nancy.
The United States Committee for the Care of European Children(USCOM) organised one of the largest efforts to aid refugee children.With First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt as the organisation's chairwoman,USCOM brought more than 300 children,most of them Jewish,from southern France,Spain,and Portugal between 1940-1945.
Ohrdruf was a German forced labour and concentration camp located south of Gotha,in Thuringia,Germany.It was part of the Buchenwald camp network.It was liberated on April 4,1945 by the 4th Armoured Division of the US Army.The horrific smells and sights were overpowering and unforgettable.Bodies were piled up like wood according to late WWII veteran,David Cohen,who helped liberate the camp.A Mickey Finn is a slang term for a drink laced with a drug(especially chloral hydrate) given to someone without their knowledge in order to incapacitate them.
December 8, 2022
A Hope And A Prayer by Julie Lessman is a powerful Christian historical novel with lessons for us all.
The action is set towards the end of World War II in Europe and then moves to post war America as we follow lives adjusting to peacetime.
Julie Lessman doesn’t write cosy Christian novels. She writes gritty realistic stories showing struggles and temptations that will resonate with modern audiences.
We witness a character battling alcohol and women addictions. His upbringing has led him to this point. He has tried everything but God. “Get on your knees and pray for Him [God] to get a hold of you now.” When we are down to nothing, God is up to something. Some of His best work is done with broken vessels, if we would just realise our need for Him.
There is a beautiful, kind soul who shines the light of God’s love wherever she goes. She is compassionate, praying where she sees needs. She realises “aside from our love, our prayers are the most important gift we can give.”
When God prompts you to pray, we must pray. Sometimes our prayers are the lifelines needed by others.
Marriages need God at the centre. “She will settle for a man who not only loves God, but lives for Him too.” We need a marriage of three. Our lives need to be living and loving God, totally focused on Him.
God has the power to redeem and restore. He will restore the years the locusts have eaten if we would but trust Him.
There is the theme of taking care of the orphans as we witness the love and care given to a poor little soul. This reminds us that God longs to lavish His love and care on each and every one of us, as He welcomes us into His family.
A Hope And A Prayer was a powerful novel that shows the love of God in action. It is a realistic read that speaks to our hearts.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set towards the end of World War II in Europe and then moves to post war America as we follow lives adjusting to peacetime.
Julie Lessman doesn’t write cosy Christian novels. She writes gritty realistic stories showing struggles and temptations that will resonate with modern audiences.
We witness a character battling alcohol and women addictions. His upbringing has led him to this point. He has tried everything but God. “Get on your knees and pray for Him [God] to get a hold of you now.” When we are down to nothing, God is up to something. Some of His best work is done with broken vessels, if we would just realise our need for Him.
There is a beautiful, kind soul who shines the light of God’s love wherever she goes. She is compassionate, praying where she sees needs. She realises “aside from our love, our prayers are the most important gift we can give.”
When God prompts you to pray, we must pray. Sometimes our prayers are the lifelines needed by others.
Marriages need God at the centre. “She will settle for a man who not only loves God, but lives for Him too.” We need a marriage of three. Our lives need to be living and loving God, totally focused on Him.
God has the power to redeem and restore. He will restore the years the locusts have eaten if we would but trust Him.
There is the theme of taking care of the orphans as we witness the love and care given to a poor little soul. This reminds us that God longs to lavish His love and care on each and every one of us, as He welcomes us into His family.
A Hope And A Prayer was a powerful novel that shows the love of God in action. It is a realistic read that speaks to our hearts.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2022
Julie Lessman—whom I've affectionately dubbed la crème de la crème of romance since her very first novel—has penned another passionate, emotive story set during the horrific turbulence of WWII.
As compassionate as she is lovely, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy tenderly nurses the wounded in Nancy, France...among them Lieutenant Bren O'Neill, Hope's best friend and daredevil evac pilot. Bren is a charismatic, smooth-talking womanizer that I wanted to loathe, but I'm afraid I fell prey to his many charms just like everyone else. lol Bren, however, battles many demons from his past which threaten his relationships with those he loves most. Oh, that Bren. (groan)
My heart soared among the clouds like a WWII evac aircraft...thoroughly enjoying the antics of these remarkable characters—humorous, witty, and staunchly loyal—only to have it plummet and crash when they make such foolish choices! Human, realistic, imperfect choices. Impeccably researched and chock-full of wise, spiritual nuggets, scriptures, and lessons to be learned the hard way—Julie Lessman has written another gem not to be missed!
“He is our peace, our joy, our hope, and our strength, and we cannot run to anything else on this earth to provide those things. Because He is also a jealous God." (taken from 'A Hope and a Prayer')
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book on behalf of the publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.*
As compassionate as she is lovely, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy tenderly nurses the wounded in Nancy, France...among them Lieutenant Bren O'Neill, Hope's best friend and daredevil evac pilot. Bren is a charismatic, smooth-talking womanizer that I wanted to loathe, but I'm afraid I fell prey to his many charms just like everyone else. lol Bren, however, battles many demons from his past which threaten his relationships with those he loves most. Oh, that Bren. (groan)
My heart soared among the clouds like a WWII evac aircraft...thoroughly enjoying the antics of these remarkable characters—humorous, witty, and staunchly loyal—only to have it plummet and crash when they make such foolish choices! Human, realistic, imperfect choices. Impeccably researched and chock-full of wise, spiritual nuggets, scriptures, and lessons to be learned the hard way—Julie Lessman has written another gem not to be missed!
“He is our peace, our joy, our hope, and our strength, and we cannot run to anything else on this earth to provide those things. Because He is also a jealous God." (taken from 'A Hope and a Prayer')
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book on behalf of the publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.*
December 29, 2022
If you can’t take the heat, stay outta the kitchen! Julie Lessman has delivered another passionate love story that will have you fanning your face and saying “Have mercy!”
Bren and Hope are two characters that are made for each other from the very beginning, but both insist they are nothing more than each other’s “best friends.” In my neck of the woods, that’s code for “one of us is waiting for the other to realize somebody’s in love.” Both of ’em needed to be whacked on the side of the head with a 2×4 (maybe a couple of times), particularly Bren because he is some kind of hardheaded.
Julie definitely pushes the envelope here with the romance, and way more than she has done with some of her earlier novels. Now that she’s publishing independently, it’s evident that she has more freedom with her words, yet there’s nothing here that’s inappropriate. I believe that God created all of us with a heart to love, and if we have the opportunity to share that love intimately with another person (like Julie shows through these characters), then we can experience how deeply God loves us, too.
I am on pins and needles to read more about Henry as well as the conclusions of the Gabe and Hope’s relationships (translation = I need book 3 STAT!) So Julie – take your time, but not too much. 😉
4.5 Stars
Bren and Hope are two characters that are made for each other from the very beginning, but both insist they are nothing more than each other’s “best friends.” In my neck of the woods, that’s code for “one of us is waiting for the other to realize somebody’s in love.” Both of ’em needed to be whacked on the side of the head with a 2×4 (maybe a couple of times), particularly Bren because he is some kind of hardheaded.
Julie definitely pushes the envelope here with the romance, and way more than she has done with some of her earlier novels. Now that she’s publishing independently, it’s evident that she has more freedom with her words, yet there’s nothing here that’s inappropriate. I believe that God created all of us with a heart to love, and if we have the opportunity to share that love intimately with another person (like Julie shows through these characters), then we can experience how deeply God loves us, too.
I am on pins and needles to read more about Henry as well as the conclusions of the Gabe and Hope’s relationships (translation = I need book 3 STAT!) So Julie – take your time, but not too much. 😉
4.5 Stars
October 10, 2022
The O'Connors are my favorite fictional family and I'm a huge Julie Lessman fan. I deemed her the kissing queen and she never disappoints. But her books are more than just knee-popping kisses they're about Jesus.
I love that Julie Lessman continues to write stories about the O'Connors. Each time I start a new book I feel like I've come home.
Hope Dennehy is your picture-perfect nurse. She is compassionate, caring, and rule-following...which as a military nurse is very important. Enter Bren O'Neill who is your typical bad boy and who is in love with her cousin, Gabe; and soon has eyes for Hope.
Get ready to laugh, cry, swoon, and want to throw the book across the room because of certain character's actions.
Overall, be prepared to have Jesus touch your heart through the story because He will. This is Ms. Lessman's signature. She creates passion and puts it in the right place which has made her a favored author by so many.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I wasn't required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love that Julie Lessman continues to write stories about the O'Connors. Each time I start a new book I feel like I've come home.
Hope Dennehy is your picture-perfect nurse. She is compassionate, caring, and rule-following...which as a military nurse is very important. Enter Bren O'Neill who is your typical bad boy and who is in love with her cousin, Gabe; and soon has eyes for Hope.
Get ready to laugh, cry, swoon, and want to throw the book across the room because of certain character's actions.
Overall, be prepared to have Jesus touch your heart through the story because He will. This is Ms. Lessman's signature. She creates passion and puts it in the right place which has made her a favored author by so many.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I wasn't required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 2, 2022
Written in Julie Lessman's usual passionate style, this is the story of Hope Dennehy, Mitch and Charity's daughter, who is a nurse in France during the later years of World War II. This book begins about four months before the end of book one so there is somewhat of an overlap. Her best friends Lieutenant Bren O'Neill, Alex Kincade, and Gabe O'Connor are a tight group but there is tension when love enters the picture. Bren had a troubled past so though he is handsome, kind, charming, and a wonderful friend, he also battles demons that cause him to behave rather badly. Though Hope, Gabe, and Alex are Christians, Bren doesn't want any part of God and doesn't believe he is worthy anyway.
This author always puts her characters through deep hardship before they can embrace the truth of God's love. There is a high level of romantic passion at times but also a very strong faith message. I always enjoy reading more about the O'Connor family and look forward to the next book, which I hope will be Hope's twin Henry's story.
This author always puts her characters through deep hardship before they can embrace the truth of God's love. There is a high level of romantic passion at times but also a very strong faith message. I always enjoy reading more about the O'Connor family and look forward to the next book, which I hope will be Hope's twin Henry's story.
September 13, 2023
I was pulled into this story immediately, and it didn't let me go until well after the last page was turned!
I love Hope! Talk about goodness, kindness, virtue, and selflessness all rolled into one person. Wow! We all can aspire to be more like her. Bren, on the other hand, was not most of those qualities. He was a flirt, a womanizer, and also an alcoholic. But he had charisma....oh, he definitely had that! Hope longs to bring Bren to God, but he never wants to turn his life over to Him. Over and over Hope and other friends try to get Bren to see the path of destruction he is on with his alcoholism, but he refuses to see it. Until he hits absolute rock bottom. Even then, he still want to drink. You will just have to pick up this book to see how everything turns out. I was rooting for Bren to change his ways the entire story, because even though he had many sins to turn away from, he also was a man who just wanted to love and accept others, almost as God loves all of us.
I love Hope! Talk about goodness, kindness, virtue, and selflessness all rolled into one person. Wow! We all can aspire to be more like her. Bren, on the other hand, was not most of those qualities. He was a flirt, a womanizer, and also an alcoholic. But he had charisma....oh, he definitely had that! Hope longs to bring Bren to God, but he never wants to turn his life over to Him. Over and over Hope and other friends try to get Bren to see the path of destruction he is on with his alcoholism, but he refuses to see it. Until he hits absolute rock bottom. Even then, he still want to drink. You will just have to pick up this book to see how everything turns out. I was rooting for Bren to change his ways the entire story, because even though he had many sins to turn away from, he also was a man who just wanted to love and accept others, almost as God loves all of us.
May 24, 2026
This book…. Wow, it was a heavy book. Once again Julie beautifully wove God’s grace, mercy, love and redemption into this story.
Bren is a broken man, so very broken.
To read about his childhood was heartbreaking. What he went through during WWII was so difficult. So much in his life was tragic.
Hope was his best friend. He tried to push her away. She fought for their friendship. She fought for Bren’s Salvation, as did Alex and Gabe. Hope’s loyalty and friendship to Bren so mirrored how God doesn’t give up on us. Hope held to her convictions. Such an example what we should strive to be.
I love that so many members of the O’Connor family is in this book.
While this is a clean and wholesome book, it shows the consequences of our actions when we sin. It also shows how low we can go.
I highly recommend this book. I also recommend reading (in order) all the books in the O’Connor family series.
Bren is a broken man, so very broken.
To read about his childhood was heartbreaking. What he went through during WWII was so difficult. So much in his life was tragic.
Hope was his best friend. He tried to push her away. She fought for their friendship. She fought for Bren’s Salvation, as did Alex and Gabe. Hope’s loyalty and friendship to Bren so mirrored how God doesn’t give up on us. Hope held to her convictions. Such an example what we should strive to be.
I love that so many members of the O’Connor family is in this book.
While this is a clean and wholesome book, it shows the consequences of our actions when we sin. It also shows how low we can go.
I highly recommend this book. I also recommend reading (in order) all the books in the O’Connor family series.
September 4, 2023
I adored the beginning of Julie Lessman’s The Cousins O’Connor series, A Wing and a Prayer, and could not wait to dive into the next addition, A Hope and a Prayer. I enjoyed it so much and spending time with Hope and Bren. I loved seeing the beauty of love, faith, power of forgiveness, and finding yourself. It was one that would make me smile on one page and tear up on another. What a wonderful story!
I am giving A Hope and a Prayer five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read clean World War II era fiction with strong female characters. I will be on the look out for the next release from The Cousins O’Connor series, A Dare and a Prayer.
I received a digital copy of Julie Lessman’s A Hope and a Prayer from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive one. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving A Hope and a Prayer five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read clean World War II era fiction with strong female characters. I will be on the look out for the next release from The Cousins O’Connor series, A Dare and a Prayer.
I received a digital copy of Julie Lessman’s A Hope and a Prayer from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive one. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
October 14, 2023
I absolutely love Julie Lessman. Her books are full of passion, a fight for the right, and a deep dive into the truth of Jesus Christ. Lessman knows how to create characters riddled with all too relatable flaws and lead them through a plot where they are able to come full circle. I cannot help but be mesmerized by the emotions each book brings. And in this particular installment in the O-Connor saga, Lessman pulls out all the stops. I guarantee you will be captivated from start to finish!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 29, 2024
I loved this story! I’m a long time fan of Julie Lessman and the O’Connor family. I loved seeing this family interact with one another once again. It brought back great memories of when I first read the original series years ago. The O’Connors have stayed with me all those years! I loved getting to know this new generation. This is a beautiful story of love and redemption. No matter how broken and scarred, no one is outside God’s reach. Julie paints such a real and raw story, incorporating a spiritual message of hope and healing. I really enjoyed getting to know Hope and Bren, and seeing their story unfold.
September 10, 2022
Another powerful O’Connor family story packed with passion and faith. You can’t help but fall in love with the O’Connor family with A Hope and a Prayer telling the love story of the oldest granddaughter of Patrick and Marcy O’Connor kicking off the third generation.
The O’Connors have walked through WWI and are now dealing with WWII. Author Julie Lessman takes her readers on another amazing journey filled with love, passion, and faith like not other author can.
A Hope and a Prayer is available starting October 1st. Preorder today and don’t miss out on the next addition to the O’Connor family!
The O’Connors have walked through WWI and are now dealing with WWII. Author Julie Lessman takes her readers on another amazing journey filled with love, passion, and faith like not other author can.
A Hope and a Prayer is available starting October 1st. Preorder today and don’t miss out on the next addition to the O’Connor family!
September 27, 2022
A Hope and A Prayer by Julie Lessman is not your typical World War II novel. Right from the beginning, Lessman places Hope, the heroine, in a hospital ward, praying over her best friend Bren. While majority of World War II novels focus on one historical event, technically, Lessman does not. She does have the characters interact with each other on V-E Day and when the Japanese surrendered, but nothing deeper than that. If, as a reader, you are wanting a World War II novel which showcases the horror of this time, then this might not be the novel for you. However, with that being said, Lessman does have her characters interact and mingle during the World War II era in Europe and Boston. Additionally, readers familiar with her widely popular O’Connor series will see familiar family members to Hope Dennehy and see how they are doing. This element I loved. The O’Connor’s were my introduction to Lessman’s writings, and I love how she keeps bringing them back. This is a novel for fans of romance. There is plenty of sparks, kissing, and more than handholding. Now Lessman does put more passion in her novels than majority of Christian Romance novels, but she does not cross the line in showing what happens behind close doors. She shows the emotions between a husband and a wife and shows the torture of an engaged couple as they fight those God-given urges. One of my favorite elements of Lessman’s writing is her ability to craft a character who wants nothing to do with God, but through gentle coaxing and prodding, the character realizes how important God is to have a fulfilling life. She allows her readers to share their faith. Not shove the love of God down the reader’s throat. Overall, A Hope and A Prayer by Julie Lessman is a wonderful story with plenty of spark, passion, and drama to keep readers flipping through the pages. I recommend this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of A Hope and a Prayer by Julie Lessman, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of A Hope and a Prayer by Julie Lessman, but the opinions stated are all my own.
October 6, 2022
Hope and Bren's story.
France and USA settings (along with the war ending and the process that takes.)
Letters cross the Atlantic from O'Connor's to those stationed in Pacific or Europe. (where is Henry?)
Family gatherings at seniors and Charities with grandkids at siblings places.
the descriptive content is very personal in there settings and relationships maybe enough for the reader to blush or get moved?
I've read all of Julie's books maybe a second/third time due.
I gather Henry's next years book "A Dare and A Prayer?" (with more on Alex n Gabe, Hope n Bren!!
France and USA settings (along with the war ending and the process that takes.)
Letters cross the Atlantic from O'Connor's to those stationed in Pacific or Europe. (where is Henry?)
Family gatherings at seniors and Charities with grandkids at siblings places.
the descriptive content is very personal in there settings and relationships maybe enough for the reader to blush or get moved?
I've read all of Julie's books maybe a second/third time due.
I gather Henry's next years book "A Dare and A Prayer?" (with more on Alex n Gabe, Hope n Bren!!
February 14, 2023
Julie Lessman can combine romance and faith better than anyone I've read. You can't miss her spiritual lessons because they are key to her stories. Her characters are part of the large O'Connor family whose faith is their strength but they are also a family who love each other without reservation. They are fun but will call each other out when needed.
In this story, I could not believe how many chances Hope gave Bren. Over and over he would fail and , she would forgive and help him. Such a reminder how many times God has done the same with me and all many of us.
Highly recommend.
In this story, I could not believe how many chances Hope gave Bren. Over and over he would fail and , she would forgive and help him. Such a reminder how many times God has done the same with me and all many of us.
Highly recommend.
March 8, 2023
Julie Lessman does it again, making me fall in love even more with the O'Connor family. I've been reading about the O'Connor family since I was 15, a whole decade ago! I'm so grateful that she's continued on their stories through the cousins! And they do NOT disappoint! I always finish reading her books with a clear perspective and encouraged faith. Loved it and can't wait for the next Cousin O'Connor book!
July 24, 2024
I enjoyed the story and hanging out with the O'Connor family once again. Parts of the book bothered me such as suggesting you can pray away addiction. I understood where the author was going, with Bren calling out to the Lord for help, but I think portraying alcoholism in this manner is dangerous. Otherwise, I loved catching up with Mitch, Charity, and the gang. I especially enjoyed Winnie as she reminded me so much of Charity. I am hoping we'll see more of her one day.
October 16, 2022
Better and better…
I loved seeing the change and Charity’s daughter grown. My heart warmed to see the family members I loved, but also the continuing story of Hope and Gabe. I loved the truths of the struggle to God, the alcoholism and trauma that were put forth in real struggle form, while building the relationship.
I loved seeing the change and Charity’s daughter grown. My heart warmed to see the family members I loved, but also the continuing story of Hope and Gabe. I loved the truths of the struggle to God, the alcoholism and trauma that were put forth in real struggle form, while building the relationship.
March 1, 2023
Julie does it again..
A hope and a prayer, based on a deep friendship between Hope and Bren, with the struggles of temptations of this world, will tear your heart out. ❤️ Julie has such a away with words, and the beautiful words from.the Lord woven into this story. Romantic, fun, and surely entertaining for sure!
A hope and a prayer, based on a deep friendship between Hope and Bren, with the struggles of temptations of this world, will tear your heart out. ❤️ Julie has such a away with words, and the beautiful words from.the Lord woven into this story. Romantic, fun, and surely entertaining for sure!
November 18, 2023
A Hope and a Prayer
The story is intense, about a nurse named Hope and her friends/family. It is the second in the Cousins O’Conner trilogy. Hope begins nursing for the service during WWII, following her heart to help in the war effort. The story follows her thru to the end of the war, with trials and joys; until she is finally back in Boston.
The story is intense, about a nurse named Hope and her friends/family. It is the second in the Cousins O’Conner trilogy. Hope begins nursing for the service during WWII, following her heart to help in the war effort. The story follows her thru to the end of the war, with trials and joys; until she is finally back in Boston.
January 26, 2024
Hope has loved Brendan ever since she first met him. But a good time to him, is flirting with women and drinking
. Other than her perseverance being God-given, I don't know how she tolerated it so long. I would have given up on him. It all works out in God's amazing way. I liked the presence of little Max to their story. I look forward to book 3.
. Other than her perseverance being God-given, I don't know how she tolerated it so long. I would have given up on him. It all works out in God's amazing way. I liked the presence of little Max to their story. I look forward to book 3.
September 3, 2025
Sweet Love Story
This story of love between Hope and Bren was absolutely delightful to read. The fact that it was formed by Hope's deep and abiding faith in God and strong belief in redemption made it even better to see the dynamics of all the characters. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Lessman's books!
This story of love between Hope and Bren was absolutely delightful to read. The fact that it was formed by Hope's deep and abiding faith in God and strong belief in redemption made it even better to see the dynamics of all the characters. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Lessman's books!
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