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Suddenly Sadie #1
Sadie on the Rocks
A story where hope is found at all new heights.
Graduate from college. Get married and have children. These have always been checkpoints on Sadie’s map of life. But still single in her thirties, and weary of unmet expectations, she faces a crossroads:
Continue waiting for life to begin? Or rethink what those checkpoints should be?
Determined to find renewed purpose, Sadie deletes her old dating apps, opting instead for a trip to the outdoor adventure store in her small, Colorado town. The plan is simple: find a hobby that offers fresh challenges and experiences. New horizons to be explored. Even if it means facing some of her biggest fears, inside and out.
So begins the first adventure in the all-new chronicles of Sadie McGillis—one woman who strives to redefine what happiness should look like. From Christy-Award winning author, Joanne Bischof, comes a faith-journey of the heart. A novel where friendships are born, life is embraced, and joy is found in unexpected places.
Graduate from college. Get married and have children. These have always been checkpoints on Sadie’s map of life. But still single in her thirties, and weary of unmet expectations, she faces a crossroads:
Continue waiting for life to begin? Or rethink what those checkpoints should be?
Determined to find renewed purpose, Sadie deletes her old dating apps, opting instead for a trip to the outdoor adventure store in her small, Colorado town. The plan is simple: find a hobby that offers fresh challenges and experiences. New horizons to be explored. Even if it means facing some of her biggest fears, inside and out.
So begins the first adventure in the all-new chronicles of Sadie McGillis—one woman who strives to redefine what happiness should look like. From Christy-Award winning author, Joanne Bischof, comes a faith-journey of the heart. A novel where friendships are born, life is embraced, and joy is found in unexpected places.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2022
13 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Bischof
19 books1,301 followersAn ECPA Christy Award winner and an ACFW Carol Award winner, Joanne Bischof DeWitt writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. Joanne’s 2016 novel, THE LADY AND THE LIONHEART, received an extraordinary 5 Star TOP PICK! from Romantic Times Book Reviews among other critical acclaim.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 14, 2022
A hundred shining stars!
This story echoes so much of what’s been on my heart over the years. I don’t usually gush over books, but with this one I definitely could. Love, love, love!!
Bischof provides an honest, heartfelt, and mature outlook on life as a single woman. What it means to surrender dreams, trust the Lord, and still live life to its fullest potential—single isn’t second best. Say it louder for the people in the back. It shows the struggles of waiting, but also that waiting isn’t all we’re called to.
Sadie is a super relatable and lovable heroine, and I love her positive friendships with the other women in her life—women of all ages encouraging and building each other up.
It’s not a high action plot, but instead introspective and meandering. But it works!
Plus, I love the rock climbing angle. I’m not sport-inclined, but this definitely made me want to try climbing one day if I’m ever physically able to undertake it.
Also, there’s some great guidelines on what NOT to say to single people, haha.
Highly recommend!!
*Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the review copy. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
This story echoes so much of what’s been on my heart over the years. I don’t usually gush over books, but with this one I definitely could. Love, love, love!!
Bischof provides an honest, heartfelt, and mature outlook on life as a single woman. What it means to surrender dreams, trust the Lord, and still live life to its fullest potential—single isn’t second best. Say it louder for the people in the back. It shows the struggles of waiting, but also that waiting isn’t all we’re called to.
Sadie is a super relatable and lovable heroine, and I love her positive friendships with the other women in her life—women of all ages encouraging and building each other up.
It’s not a high action plot, but instead introspective and meandering. But it works!
Plus, I love the rock climbing angle. I’m not sport-inclined, but this definitely made me want to try climbing one day if I’m ever physically able to undertake it.
Also, there’s some great guidelines on what NOT to say to single people, haha.
Highly recommend!!
*Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the review copy. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 22, 2023
This is such a sweet story. It’s a quick, charming read that captures the experience of the modern single Christian woman so perfectly. I really enjoyed the introspection of Sadie and could relate a lot to what she felt and experienced. As much as I love a swoony romance, I won’t lie that as a single girl there are moments where I sometimes feel that pang of “when will it be my turn?” so I appreciate how this book highlights that singleness can be as fulfilling as a relationship; it’s just different.♡☺️
March 4, 2024
As usual, I cannot gather enough words to express how much I love this book, so I'm just going to tell you to go read it 😍😆
Seriously, if you want your single girl heart to just feel heard for a while, this is the book for you 💕
Also... I really want to go rock climbing now...
Seriously, if you want your single girl heart to just feel heard for a while, this is the book for you 💕
Also... I really want to go rock climbing now...
November 3, 2022
This was such an inspiring read. It's slower paced, with a lot of introspection from Sadie as she's figuring out who she is and what she really wants in life, and I really enjoyed it. I was fully on board and cheering Sadie on!
Sadie was a genuinely likable character. Nice, encouraging, and relatable. It was so inspiring to watch her face and conquer some of her fears and try new things. I loved that she was forging her own path at finding happiness, instead of continuing to do what was "expected" all while being unhappy.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. I'm looking forward to more adventures with Sadie in future books.
I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Sadie was a genuinely likable character. Nice, encouraging, and relatable. It was so inspiring to watch her face and conquer some of her fears and try new things. I loved that she was forging her own path at finding happiness, instead of continuing to do what was "expected" all while being unhappy.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. I'm looking forward to more adventures with Sadie in future books.
I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
October 22, 2022
I really enjoyed this story about Sadie, a single woman trying to keep active and engage with the people around her.
A charming quick read that has encouraged me to look for other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
A charming quick read that has encouraged me to look for other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2023
I wish I would have read this book three months ago because I would have enjoyed it so much more then. But even with having read it now, I still enjoyed it, but I couldn’t relate to Sadie quite as much anymore.
This is such a great story for anyone looking to find peace in their singleness! I loved being able to join Sadie on her journey to discovering new things that she enjoys and finding joy outside of the crushing despair of feeling like she will never find a guy to spend her life with.
This is such a great story for anyone looking to find peace in their singleness! I loved being able to join Sadie on her journey to discovering new things that she enjoys and finding joy outside of the crushing despair of feeling like she will never find a guy to spend her life with.
November 12, 2022
Sadie would love to get married - has planned for it all her life, in fact - but she just hasn't met anyone. Seeing a fellow member of the church singles group struggling because someone she'd thought was interested in her has started developing something with a friend instead, Sadie decides that there has to be more to life than just waiting for a man to turn up. She decides to try to find a new hobby to fill her time - but what should it be, and can changing her attitude change her life for the better?
I got part-way through this and started to wonder where it might end - because neither option seemed quite satisfying. Fortunately, I was wrong - because the author made the only real answer end up satisfying after all. Of course, if this turns into a series (as I'd love it to), I would hope that eventually that could change, but for now, it works perfectly. I can't fully empathise with Sadie in her dilemma, but I do love the idea of making the most of life as it is rather than constantly hoping for something more, however understandable. All in all, a good read, and though it didn't inspire me to take up bouldering myself, I can see the appeal! I loved the way that Sadie made and developed friendships along the way, too. Though the first book I've read by the author, I hope it won't be the last. 4.5 stars.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I got part-way through this and started to wonder where it might end - because neither option seemed quite satisfying. Fortunately, I was wrong - because the author made the only real answer end up satisfying after all. Of course, if this turns into a series (as I'd love it to), I would hope that eventually that could change, but for now, it works perfectly. I can't fully empathise with Sadie in her dilemma, but I do love the idea of making the most of life as it is rather than constantly hoping for something more, however understandable. All in all, a good read, and though it didn't inspire me to take up bouldering myself, I can see the appeal! I loved the way that Sadie made and developed friendships along the way, too. Though the first book I've read by the author, I hope it won't be the last. 4.5 stars.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
November 25, 2022
A sweet "coming of age" style story that takes one single woman on a discovery to enjoy the life she has now instead of focusing on the life she wants tomorrow.
Sadie is such a relatable and endearing character. I loved that what she tried, scared her more than a little and also she wasn't a perfect character that immediately succeeded at everything she tried. Sadie is incredibly relatable and I think any woman, single or not, will see a bit of herself within her.
The novel is quite introspective and filled with little action and yet it draws the reader in with a simple and sweet story and voice that makes you cheer Sadie on and look forward to her next adventure.
Sadie is such a relatable and endearing character. I loved that what she tried, scared her more than a little and also she wasn't a perfect character that immediately succeeded at everything she tried. Sadie is incredibly relatable and I think any woman, single or not, will see a bit of herself within her.
The novel is quite introspective and filled with little action and yet it draws the reader in with a simple and sweet story and voice that makes you cheer Sadie on and look forward to her next adventure.
December 26, 2022
If Erynn Mangum wrote a novel for adults (as a switch from her delightful YA books, including my favorites of hers--the Lauren Holbrook series and Maya Davis series), I'm reasonably confident this would be it. And I love it. I've read Lauren's and Maya's stories repeatedly and love their witticisms, incorporation of both the classics and pop-culture references, and mic-drop theological nuggets. This book has the same, in spades.
What's even better? It's about a single girl in her mid-30s. And it doesn't have everything tied up in a neat, society- or genre-approved bow by the end. (Not least because it's part of a series, but you know.) Normally that can drive me batty, but in this instance and on this topic, I LOVE IT. And I want to thank the author, on all the levels. She gets it. She has lived this herself and has written out of her own experience--which, as ever, lends depth, credibility, poignance, etc., etc.
Absolutely recommended for fiction readers--both my fellow singles and those in our lives who surround us. :) Want to know what it's like being single in one's 30s (and what helps--or doesn't)? Check this out.
And, soapbox aside, I really enjoyed Sadie's pursuits not only of writing what she wants to/is feeling called toward, and sticking to her guns on that, but also of indoor climbing. Not that I necessarily feel led to do so myself, but frankly, it did make me want to try it again (I blame youth and a fear of heights on an REI climbing-wall-gone-bad experience). There was so much enjoyable and relatable here--I loved it!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
What's even better? It's about a single girl in her mid-30s. And it doesn't have everything tied up in a neat, society- or genre-approved bow by the end. (Not least because it's part of a series, but you know.) Normally that can drive me batty, but in this instance and on this topic, I LOVE IT. And I want to thank the author, on all the levels. She gets it. She has lived this herself and has written out of her own experience--which, as ever, lends depth, credibility, poignance, etc., etc.
Absolutely recommended for fiction readers--both my fellow singles and those in our lives who surround us. :) Want to know what it's like being single in one's 30s (and what helps--or doesn't)? Check this out.
And, soapbox aside, I really enjoyed Sadie's pursuits not only of writing what she wants to/is feeling called toward, and sticking to her guns on that, but also of indoor climbing. Not that I necessarily feel led to do so myself, but frankly, it did make me want to try it again (I blame youth and a fear of heights on an REI climbing-wall-gone-bad experience). There was so much enjoyable and relatable here--I loved it!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 28, 2022
This is an excellent easy read fiction story The story is centred on. Sadie who has tried dating but can’t at the moment find someone who matches her views about life and relationships. But also about trying to be positive about things you have control over your in life.. Finding a way to feel successful for yourself.. This is a story with a Christian slant, which I’m sure is important to the author, but this isn’t thrown in your face on every page. So no matter your thoughts about religion, this book gives everyone the chance to enjoy what is ultimately a cosy story about the ups and downs of life. Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
November 15, 2022
Sadie on the Rocks
A Suddenly Sadie Adventure #1
by Joanne Bischof
Pub Date 11 Nov 2022
Mason Jar Books
Christian
I am reviewing a copy of Sadie on the Rocks through Mason Jar Books and Netgalley:
Graduating from college, getting married and having children were always checkpoints on Sadie’s map of life. But still single in her thirties, and weary of unmet expectations, she faces a crossroads.
Should she continue to wait for her life begin? Or should she rethink what her checkpoints need to be.
Sadie is determined to find renewed purpose, so she deletes her old dating apps. Instead she oops for a trip to the outdoor adventure store in her small, Colorado town. The plan is simple: find a hobby that offers fresh challenges and experiences. New horizons to be explored. Even if it means facing some of her biggest fears, inside and out.
I give Sadie on the Rocks five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
A Suddenly Sadie Adventure #1
by Joanne Bischof
Pub Date 11 Nov 2022
Mason Jar Books
Christian
I am reviewing a copy of Sadie on the Rocks through Mason Jar Books and Netgalley:
Graduating from college, getting married and having children were always checkpoints on Sadie’s map of life. But still single in her thirties, and weary of unmet expectations, she faces a crossroads.
Should she continue to wait for her life begin? Or should she rethink what her checkpoints need to be.
Sadie is determined to find renewed purpose, so she deletes her old dating apps. Instead she oops for a trip to the outdoor adventure store in her small, Colorado town. The plan is simple: find a hobby that offers fresh challenges and experiences. New horizons to be explored. Even if it means facing some of her biggest fears, inside and out.
I give Sadie on the Rocks five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
November 26, 2022
I’ve been a longtime fan of Joanne Bischof because I love the way she write with authenticity. Her characters are relatable and genuine. When I heard about Suddenly Sadie Adventures, I was thrilled! I’ve seen some of Joanne’s YouTube videos and have been following some of her self discovery through various venues. I knew that some of her wisdom, insights, and lessons would be shared through Sadie and I couldn’t wait. Yes, it’s fiction, but being written in first person, it felt like having a cup of coffee with a friend. Sadie, tired of the status quo and interested in more, challenges herself to be brave and live. I LOVE what comes out of it. A new hobby, new friends, a new career, and a new perspective. She’s real and authentic as she struggles, falls, and gets back up again. I absolutely recommend to all fans of contemporary, inspirational fiction.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
dnf
November 10, 2022DNF
I think Sadie on the Rocks will appeal to single women who are looking for some encouragement. To be totally honest, I wasn't able to finish the book. I really gave it a shot and there were lots of parts I liked but unfortunately the writing was just too tedious about mundane things for my taste (gathering specific items to leave the house, going down multiple aisles in a sporting goods store, etc.) I think that kind of description is so great for maybe historic settings so the reader can really imagine it all, but there was too much detail for a contemporary light read in my opinion.
I think Sadie on the Rocks will appeal to single women who are looking for some encouragement. To be totally honest, I wasn't able to finish the book. I really gave it a shot and there were lots of parts I liked but unfortunately the writing was just too tedious about mundane things for my taste (gathering specific items to leave the house, going down multiple aisles in a sporting goods store, etc.) I think that kind of description is so great for maybe historic settings so the reader can really imagine it all, but there was too much detail for a contemporary light read in my opinion.
November 16, 2022
This is not a romance. It is not a fast-paced suspense novel. It IS a relaxed, contemplative novel about finding contentment and satisfaction with where you are in life, and I loved it! I needed a break from the suspense, the sizzling romance, and all the things that get me hyped up. This book is very nourishing and worth taking the time to slow down and savor it. I look forward to more of Suddenly Sadie's adventures!
January 17, 2023
What a delightful book! As a single mom, I adored Sadie on the Rocks. I know that Sadie doesn’t have children in the book, but I connected with her anyhow. I love how she got up and started something new with bouldering. It has me thinking of starting something else. I also love how she doesn’t find her identity in a relationship or a man, but in her faith and her goals. Definitely a great read, one you won’t want to miss!
June 5, 2023
This book was gifted to me by my BFF @msdarcyreads (if you aren’t friends with her yet, you’re missing out. But she’s my BFF so I’m biased!)
And it was the EXACT read I needed. If you didn’t know, or are new to following me, I’m Christian, single, mid-thirties. I’ve never dated, but would like to. Small town girl, with a big heart.
Why does that matter? It’s one of the reasons I read so much romance. I don’t have it in my life, but I love to read about it. I’ve been trying to get to know guys more this year but it’s not going well.
✨Enter this book, it’s like a devotional turned fiction story and it SPOKE TO MY SOUL! It’s not a romance. There’s no “couple” in this story. But it’s the best book about learning that life is not about “completing yourself” with a spouse. That God made you perfect, just as you are.
Instead of finding love, Sadie found relationships, experiences, and determination. She’s learning (just like me) that living to find “the one” is not the way to life your life. It’s not how God planned your life to go. It’s okay to be lonely, but fill that longing with something. For Sadie it was bouldering and writing; for me, it’s reading, gardening, and small groups at church. But always looking over your shoulder for “Mr. Right” is not healthy. (I’m preaching the choir here)
I cannot wait for more Suddenly Sadie books, and highly recommend this one to anyone who need a little motivation.
Thanks friend for sending me a copy! 😘 *hugs*
And it was the EXACT read I needed. If you didn’t know, or are new to following me, I’m Christian, single, mid-thirties. I’ve never dated, but would like to. Small town girl, with a big heart.
Why does that matter? It’s one of the reasons I read so much romance. I don’t have it in my life, but I love to read about it. I’ve been trying to get to know guys more this year but it’s not going well.
✨Enter this book, it’s like a devotional turned fiction story and it SPOKE TO MY SOUL! It’s not a romance. There’s no “couple” in this story. But it’s the best book about learning that life is not about “completing yourself” with a spouse. That God made you perfect, just as you are.
Instead of finding love, Sadie found relationships, experiences, and determination. She’s learning (just like me) that living to find “the one” is not the way to life your life. It’s not how God planned your life to go. It’s okay to be lonely, but fill that longing with something. For Sadie it was bouldering and writing; for me, it’s reading, gardening, and small groups at church. But always looking over your shoulder for “Mr. Right” is not healthy. (I’m preaching the choir here)
I cannot wait for more Suddenly Sadie books, and highly recommend this one to anyone who need a little motivation.
Thanks friend for sending me a copy! 😘 *hugs*
November 3, 2022
I loved this book!! I haven’t read many Christian novels that explore singleness, and this story was refreshing, genuine, and sweet without being preachy or trite. As someone who has recently become obsessed with climbing I loved watching Sadie fall in love with it too.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from the author, but the review is entirely my own thoughts. : )
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from the author, but the review is entirely my own thoughts. : )
December 13, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Written well, tugged me right in and I didn’t want to put it down! I’ve already suggested it to some friends! Sadie is a super loveable character and I love seeing her stick true to herself!
November 11, 2022
Cute and fun, yet timely. Sadie has values that are very important to her and wants an honest, caring relationship, as all women do. She hasn't found that certain man she can entrust her heart to and is tired of the search. I love that she doesn't compromise her values just for the sake of having a significant other but instead looks at other ways to find fulfillment. There are so many HEA's out there to read, (and who doesn't love those?), but this was a refreshing, spunky and timely, twist. I found her relateable, inspiring and romantic at heart and this story is too. Looking forward to her next adventure!
March 28, 2024
I was desperate for a gentle lulling book to read in the early days post partum. Didn’t cut it, too boring. The wordage was super supery and polite.
I am glad she tried rock climbing, way! to! go!
Anyone have good, gentle & interesting reads for me in this fragile stage? Can’t be war, memoirs, action packed or sad.
I am glad she tried rock climbing, way! to! go!
Anyone have good, gentle & interesting reads for me in this fragile stage? Can’t be war, memoirs, action packed or sad.
December 31, 2023
GLORY BE! A book about someone who starts and ends the book SINGLE! And has a fun time learning and growing in between.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. What a refreshing read. We need more of these!
Thank you, thank you, thank you. What a refreshing read. We need more of these!
November 12, 2023
Earnest. Introspective. Refreshing. “Sadie on the Rocks” by Joanne Bischof is the kind of book that begs to be read outdoors on a sunny day, cradled in a hammock beneath the shade of a sprawling oak tree. The kind of book that unwinds tight muscles and smooths furrowed brows with tranquil prose and soft-spoken truth.
I’ve seen countless readers in online book groups, asking for this very book—a book with a single heroine who stays single. A book where the unique feelings and experiences of a single heroine are explored with sensitivity and heart-felt honesty. A book that doesn’t portray singleness as a tragic ending, but rather, as a beautiful beginning full of joy, contentment, and possibility.
If you enjoy contemplative women’s fiction, “Sadie on the Rocks” is sure to be your cup of tea. And if you’re a single woman who’s felt unseen and forgotten, Sadie’s story is the one you’ve been waiting for!
I’ve seen countless readers in online book groups, asking for this very book—a book with a single heroine who stays single. A book where the unique feelings and experiences of a single heroine are explored with sensitivity and heart-felt honesty. A book that doesn’t portray singleness as a tragic ending, but rather, as a beautiful beginning full of joy, contentment, and possibility.
If you enjoy contemplative women’s fiction, “Sadie on the Rocks” is sure to be your cup of tea. And if you’re a single woman who’s felt unseen and forgotten, Sadie’s story is the one you’ve been waiting for!
November 15, 2022
I do love a good romance book but it was a refreshing change to read a book about a single woman that wasn't focused on getting a man. Sadie is thirty-two and would like to find the "right" man and marry but decides that just can't continue to be her whole focus. It was interesting to read of her quest and how it made such a difference in her life, especially since it is told in first person. I'll look forward to reading more of Sadie's adventures. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
January 8, 2024
This book was a balm to my heart.
Centered around what to do with ourselves while we desire things that don’t seem to be coming.
Sadie was relatable. She struggles. She grieves. She strives to retrain her mind.
I highly recommend this for ladies late highschool and up that are wrestling to put their future in God’s hands.
Centered around what to do with ourselves while we desire things that don’t seem to be coming.
Sadie was relatable. She struggles. She grieves. She strives to retrain her mind.
I highly recommend this for ladies late highschool and up that are wrestling to put their future in God’s hands.
December 19, 2022
Sadie was a wonderful character, so relatable and easy to fall in love with. I read this book in one sitting, couldn’t put it down as I cheered for Sadie! It was inspirational and motivational, a lovely read!
November 27, 2023
A contemporary novel with a refreshing outlook. Sadie is single, in her early thirties, and wrestling with the expectations of marriage and motherhood that have thus far passed her by. It’s told entirely from Sadie’s first person point of view and has a bit of a journaling feel to the writing style.
We follow an introspective Sadie as she navigates a future void of ‘prospects’ in a church and family culture that is pushing her to ‘get out there’ and ‘find a husband. ‘ Lot’s of thought provoking examples of how not to be that busybody/nosy/opinionated person in a single woman’s life. 🙂
It’s also an empowering story, as Sadie learns to embrace her life as it is in the moment, instead of banking her happiness on a future that may or may not happen. It’s heartbreaking and funny and soul-stirring as we watch Sadie step out in faith to face new challenges on her own.
“I’m scared to consider what’s going to happen to my life if there are many more repeats of being a cardboard person in a cardboard life. A single woman who feels stuck and like her only hope to be found lies in the dream of a relationship.” (p 25)
As someone who has spent the majority of her adult years as a single woman in a family oriented church environment, I resonated with Sadie’s journey. And even though I’m a romantic at heart, and 99% of my reading hours end in happily ever afters, I still appreciated this Contemporary Fiction offering from Joanne Bischof.
Faith-fueled and full of hope, Sadie’s adventures are just beginning and I can’t wait to read more of them!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/11/27/s...
We follow an introspective Sadie as she navigates a future void of ‘prospects’ in a church and family culture that is pushing her to ‘get out there’ and ‘find a husband. ‘ Lot’s of thought provoking examples of how not to be that busybody/nosy/opinionated person in a single woman’s life. 🙂
It’s also an empowering story, as Sadie learns to embrace her life as it is in the moment, instead of banking her happiness on a future that may or may not happen. It’s heartbreaking and funny and soul-stirring as we watch Sadie step out in faith to face new challenges on her own.
“I’m scared to consider what’s going to happen to my life if there are many more repeats of being a cardboard person in a cardboard life. A single woman who feels stuck and like her only hope to be found lies in the dream of a relationship.” (p 25)
As someone who has spent the majority of her adult years as a single woman in a family oriented church environment, I resonated with Sadie’s journey. And even though I’m a romantic at heart, and 99% of my reading hours end in happily ever afters, I still appreciated this Contemporary Fiction offering from Joanne Bischof.
Faith-fueled and full of hope, Sadie’s adventures are just beginning and I can’t wait to read more of them!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/11/27/s...
November 8, 2022
Sadie on the Rocks by Joanne Bischof is a new women's fiction offering with themes of self discovery, worth and contentment regardless of singleness. The story is told in first person point of view and reads like a private journal opened for all to see.
Sadie's had some bad experiences when it comes to dating which sets her on a journey to making some big life changes. As Sadie explores her freedom to choose her own path her search of adventure lands her in an indoor rock climbing gym. Her class puts her physical abilities to the test while giving her the confidence to believe she can do hard things, in love and in life.
Sadie on the Rocks will appeal to young singles who are on their own similar journey. I appreciate Mason Jar Books making a copy of Sadie on the Rocks available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
Sadie's had some bad experiences when it comes to dating which sets her on a journey to making some big life changes. As Sadie explores her freedom to choose her own path her search of adventure lands her in an indoor rock climbing gym. Her class puts her physical abilities to the test while giving her the confidence to believe she can do hard things, in love and in life.
Sadie on the Rocks will appeal to young singles who are on their own similar journey. I appreciate Mason Jar Books making a copy of Sadie on the Rocks available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
January 26, 2023
In her early 30s, Sadie is ready for a career change and the strength to adjust to life as a single woman. She searches for an activity to move her out of a rut and ends up with bouldering. Lucky for her, she lives in Colorado where there are many outlets for this sport. Part of the singles group at her church, Sadie feels the pain and joy of single-dom. But, her writing career has her always writing about finding love and dating tips. She believes she needs to branch out to a new audience, with or without the support of her employer.
I liked that the book took an honest approach to what it can be like to be a 30-something, single adult. Sadie is a believeable character with realistic friends.
Thanks to Mason Jar Books for providing me an ARC in exchange for a review in my own words.
I liked that the book took an honest approach to what it can be like to be a 30-something, single adult. Sadie is a believeable character with realistic friends.
Thanks to Mason Jar Books for providing me an ARC in exchange for a review in my own words.
June 12, 2023
I wasn’t really sure what I’d think about this book, but it was SUPER fun. It’s unlike a lot of books in its genre and that’s a good thing!
Sadie has tried everything to find a husband…dating apps, single groups, and so much more. She’s in her 30s with no prospect in sight and she’s decided that she’s done. Not in a “God has called me to be single” way, but in a “I’m done with making this the exact focus of my life” way. She decides she wants to live and experience adventure, and hopefully she’ll meet a guy along the way. So she picks up rock climbing and finds new ways to bring adventure, change, and fun into her life. In the end, she finds herself feeling more alive than ever before.
It’s a fun, relatable book that made me laugh and I could also feel what the fictional character was feeling (even though our circumstances are very different). I will definitely read book 2 when it comes out. I have my suspicion that I know the direction book 2 will go, but unless the second book changes everything about Sadie, I think it will continue to be a fun new look on the way to pursue life, relationships, and careers.
Sadie has tried everything to find a husband…dating apps, single groups, and so much more. She’s in her 30s with no prospect in sight and she’s decided that she’s done. Not in a “God has called me to be single” way, but in a “I’m done with making this the exact focus of my life” way. She decides she wants to live and experience adventure, and hopefully she’ll meet a guy along the way. So she picks up rock climbing and finds new ways to bring adventure, change, and fun into her life. In the end, she finds herself feeling more alive than ever before.
It’s a fun, relatable book that made me laugh and I could also feel what the fictional character was feeling (even though our circumstances are very different). I will definitely read book 2 when it comes out. I have my suspicion that I know the direction book 2 will go, but unless the second book changes everything about Sadie, I think it will continue to be a fun new look on the way to pursue life, relationships, and careers.
May 5, 2025
A topic that needs to be explored. The fact it was written for single women, and about learning to be content with singleness, immediately sold it to me. (Truly! I bought it as soon as I could!) I've love to read more books for women where romance isn't the main focus.
All that said, the story was a bit slow for my taste. Easy, and rambling. Like honey, or a lazy brook. Wonderful for some people, but bordering boring for myself, I'm sorry to say.
I'd be curious enough to read the second book if I came across it, but probably won't be seeking out this book or series again.
This author is a beautiful person, with a beautiful heart behind her stories. I don't regret reading it! I have another of her books on my shelf, and am excited to dive in! It's historical fiction, set near the Gold Rush, so it'll probably be more my style!
All that said, the story was a bit slow for my taste. Easy, and rambling. Like honey, or a lazy brook. Wonderful for some people, but bordering boring for myself, I'm sorry to say.
I'd be curious enough to read the second book if I came across it, but probably won't be seeking out this book or series again.
This author is a beautiful person, with a beautiful heart behind her stories. I don't regret reading it! I have another of her books on my shelf, and am excited to dive in! It's historical fiction, set near the Gold Rush, so it'll probably be more my style!
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