Now or Never

Many Oaks Romances #0.5

by Emily Conrad

Will leaving positive legacies mean kissing their own happily-ever-after goodbye?

If Tim Bergeron got a lifetime achievement award for anything, it’d be managing the iconic rock band, Awestruck, but he’d trade his successful career for the opportunity to prevent his daughter from repeating his mistakes.

When a health scare proves time is short, he talks Isabella into a cross-country road trip. His attempts to talk her out of a hasty marriage drive a wedge between them, and it looks like the best he can hope for from the trip is scouting out promising new talent to represent. That is, until he meets Gabby.

Widow Gabrielle Voss has responsibilities to her daughter and patients, deep roots in the community, and a dream that scares her. Though she’d never utter it to the people she lives and works among, the truth slips out with Tim, who’s not in Many Oaks, Iowa, to stay.

As her fiftieth birthday party draws near and an attraction to Tim sparks to life, Gabby realizes she must pursue her dream now—or, more reasonably, never.

This prequel novella to the Many Oaks Romances stars a popular character from the Rhythms of Redemption Romances.

If you like Christian romance that explores meaningful questions of faith, life, and love, escape into the small town of Many Oaks, Iowa, by ordering today!

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Romance, Fiction

138 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 28, 2023

About the author

Emily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s living) is Jesus. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and their energetic coonhound and two lop-eared bunny rescues. Learn more about her and her books at emilyconradauthor.com.

Reviews

[Latisha Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want a sweet novella with faith, heart, and an older, mature couple? That's what this sweet novella delivers!

I loved reading about the older characters getting a second chance at a HEA. The faith is strong. The characters fun and relatable and I'm excited for the next book in the series!

**I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous start to the new Many Oaks Romances series! This prequel novella focuses on two characters who just might find a new love a bit later in life. If you have read the Rhythms of Redemption Romances, you will recognize band manager Tim. This is his story.

I loved that this novella had complicated issues to deal with. There were not easy answers, instead, there were big decisions to make regarding taking chances on life and love, as well as setting priorities regarding work versus family, and deciding when it is the right time to step back and let someone make their own mistakes. The author also tackled the topics of grief, expectations for yourself and others, and even fear of loss.

I loved the way the relationship developed between Gabby and Tim. It flowed so naturally between the two of them, which, I think, took them both a bit by surprise. But I really liked the way they talked through things and looked at the possibilities of a deeper connection growing between them given time together.

This series can be started on its own, without having read the Rhythms of Redemption series. However, if you have read that collection of novels, you will love a few of the cameos that pop up in this one. I am excited about these new stories and enjoyed the introduction to a few of the characters who will be the focus of the upcoming novels.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Mandy Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that this story had older lead characters. The issues faced by Gabby and Tim resonated with me as I also have older children who are finding their way in the world and how we need to rely on God's guidance to know when to offer advice and when to step back. I loved finally getting to read Tim's story after having him in the sidelines of all the books in the Rhythms of Redemption Romance series. As always Emily tackles issues of faith from a realistic standpoint with believable characters who have realistic reactions and struggles.

Can't wait for the new series.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.

[Barbara M. Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Conrad does it again. She brings real-life characters to the page and draws you into their families.

Tim has been managing rock bands for years, but chasing fortune and fame kept him from being the best dad to Isabella. Trying to re-connect with his twenty-something daughter is tough and getting tougher when he meets Gabby.

Gabby has been widowed for a decade and has poured herself into her career. When her youngest daughter struggles with her faith and makes choices that don't honor God, Gabby is at a loss for what to do.

Tim and Gabby bond in Many Oaks, Iowa. With Tim set to jet set off to California, will their new relationship die on the vine or thrive? Only God can make them see that taking a chance on love might be scary, but God will give them the wisdom and strength to make it through.

Another realistic, faith-filled romance from Conrad.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tim regrets a lifetime of bad choices in his relationship with his daughter and will do almost anything to try to set things right - even drag her along on a cross-country road trip under false pretences to get to spend time with her. Gabby has wanted to travel all her life, but there's always been something else that has to come first, most recently a daughter making poor choices. When Tim shows up in town, has adventure come knocking or do they each have too much on their plate already? Both Tim and Gabby want the best for their daughters - but can they learn to accept that all they can do is leave the girls in God's hands? And can they overcome the hurdles to a relationship, or is a few days all they'll ever have?

After meeting Tim in previous books, it was great to see him get his own story. I appreciated the way he acknowledged past failures with his daughter and did his best to fix them, but I also loved the way that he listened to Gabby, showed that he cared and was willing to do what she needed rather than pursuing his own wants. I also enjoyed getting to know Gabby and watching her come to terms with the fears she hasn't even recognised before. Overall, while I do tend to prefer longer books, this was a good read and an interesting introduction to a new series. I look forward to future visits to Many Oaks!

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

[Caitlin Nikolai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a complimentary copy of Emily Conrad’s book “Now or Never” for review, but am not required to leave a review.

I’m not required to, but I’m going to leave a positive review, because I really enjoyed “Now or Never.” It’s a sweet, inspirational story about two people who’d already had a chance at love – Tim’s marriage ended in divorce and Gabby is a widow.

They meet and are immediately attracted to each other, but he is just passing through, and she still loves her late husband.

They also both have young adult daughters who are… challenging. Tim and Gabby need to rely and grow in their faith in ways they never expected.

I love the conflict Emily gives Tim and Gabby, but maybe even more than that, I love how she balances the romantic tension with the tension between the two daughters. It’s very real-life. We never have just one thing going on in our lives, but are constantly juggling several plates in the air. Emily captures that perfectly.

I also love how Emily resolves each conflict differently at the end. The book has a happy ending (it is a romance, after all), but each relationship is left at a different stage of healing. Everyone is happy, but there is still work to be done – another way the book is real-life.

I would strongly recommend “Now or Never”.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He collected the laptop, then eyed their daughters. He must've judged the waning distance still adequate. 'I've been thinking a lot about legacy lately, but I might've missed my chance at a positive one with her years ago.' 'No way.' Gabby brushed his hand as she took the first step toward her own daughter. 'It's not too late. It's now or never."

This is sweet start-to-romance is about two people whose lives did not go as expected. Tim is a music manager who we met in Emily's previous books. Gabby is a nurse who did not expect to be widowed. When they meet, they feel a connection. But they are also in different places.

Both of them have their own adult children, they are trying to figure out how to still parent well and also what is next for their lives. I can definitely relate to this phase of trying to figure it out. I like the fact that both faith and grace play a big role in this book.

I almost needed a bit more a chance to get to know Gabby to connect with her. Perhaps she needed a novel instead of a novella. I didn't fully understand her strong need for independence. But I do appreciate the fact that this shows a chapter in the story. More seems like it will be written.

I have definitely become a fan of Emily's books. I really enjoyed her "Rhythms of Redemption" series. I look forward to reading this new series as well. Final rating: 4.5 stars

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been wanting more storied with older characters for awhile now. And by older, I mean my age lol. Well, these characters are a little bit older then me, but I can relate to their season in life. I appreciate that Conrad took us on this journey with Tim and Gabby. Don’t get me wrong, I love romance stories with young characters. But there is something to be said about a “later-in-life” love story.

Conrad writes some of my favorite romance stories ever, and this one is really no different. It may be shorter, but it packs a powerful punch. Both of these characters have been through a lot of the years, but Conrad brings them together in such a beautiful way. And once again delivers a faith thread that speaks right to your heart. I love how she weaves faith into her stories. It is seamless and is so powerful.

I hope that this is just the start to Conrad writing some stories for “older” characters. Maybe I should say “the right age” characters so I don’t sound like I’m old too lol. But seriously - she did such a great job and it was refreshing to read about characters that are in a similar season in life as myself. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ayla Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Rhythms of Redemption series may have ended, but Emily Conrad has brought us to the town of Many Oaks to see where life has taken Awestruck's band manager, Tim Bergeron. Tim's career has been a raging success, but his track record as a father has been less than ideal. When he finds himself facing a health scare, he ends up on a cross-country, talent-scouting road trip with his now-grown daughter Isabella in an attempt to rebuild their relationship and do whatever it takes to keep her from making the same mistakes he's made. One of their stops lands them in the small town of Many Oaks where they meet some new artists--and Gabrielle Voss. Gabby tragically lost her husband years earlier and has put all her energy into raising her two daughters alone. Now that her girls are adults, she's trying to find her place in their lives and in her community. And she has a dream: one that she's never had the courage to tell to anyone...until she meets Tim.

Read this if you like:
⭐️Contemporary small-town romance
⭐️MC's in their early 50s
⭐️Faith-based
⭐️Novella-length
⭐️Love at first sight
⭐️Single parent trope

I loved getting a peek into the band members' lives ten years after where we left off in the previous series. Tim was always a rather unlikeable character so I enjoyed finally seeing him change his life around and become a good dad, great friend, and even become mature enough for a healthy relationship. I also really liked Gabby. Her love for her girls and those around her was sweet to see. Although my kids are still young, I can easily imagine how difficult it is to watch your children make poor decisions and just leave them in God's hands instead of trying to change them like both Tim and Gabby had to learn. I enjoyed watching Tim and Gabby's relationship grow as well as their relationships with their daughters and with God. Some parts did feel a little rushed, however, I feel like that is pretty common in novellas, and it was still a fun read.

All in all, Now or Never was a sweet novella, and I'll be looking forward to reading whatever Emily has planned next.

*As a launch team member, I received a complimentary copy of Now or Never through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect place to begin a new series, with the prequel novella! I love the glimpse the author gave us of the town and some characters who I believe will be featured in future novels (angsty ones at that!)

But this story focuses on a ‘later in life’ romance between Tim and Gabby who are both in their early fifties. And, of course, it’s all kinds of complicated given each of their personal histories. And the fact that they don’t live in the same town or even state!

But it’s attraction at first sight at a time neither of them is looking for love. Conrad writes a beautiful romance with depth and grace…and a healthy dose of grit. I appreciated the maturity in the way they tackled all the issues they faced, both personally and together as they try to figure out what their future might hold. And I love that they are both anchored by their faith which makes for a strong foundation.

Realistic drama, family struggles and the way the author approached some tough topics added emotional layers to their story and made for a captivating read.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/01/29/n...

[Stephanie - Books Less Travelled · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was curious about this one and had it on my 'to-read' list for a little while. So, when it popped up on KU I decided now was a perfect time to finally read it. It ended up being an entertaining read, and a good story. I would have liked if it was a little longer, or at least felt a little more...wrapped up? I mean, I know it's a prequel and part of a series, so the 'what happens' is probably touched on in later books, but I did feel it ended a little abruptly, with little hint of how things would turn out, or even the 'what's next' type teaser that some stories give to suggest how the rest of the series might go, or at least where it starts.

That said, the was also really the only complaint I had about this one. Obviously, some (or maybe several) of the characters are just getting started, and have their own stories to tell. I'm curious to see how their stories work out as well, and to see which characters get their stories told in this series. It was a fun introduction to the new series, and I did really enjoy meeting Gabby and getting to see Tim in a different light. It's a quick read, and kept me interested until the end!

[Jane Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily's new novella prequel doesn't disappoint! The manager of the band from the Rhythms of Redemption series, is the lead in this story. The book kicks off Emily's new series set in Many Oaks, Iowa, where the former bassist from the band lives now.

Without giving away any spoilers, Tim (divorced and the band's manager) and his daughter stop in Many Oaks on a trip cross country. Gabby, a widow with two daughters, is ready for a change. Both Tim and Gabby have struggles with their daughters they are working through and their own struggles with loneliness and regret.

This is a great book to lead in to The Many Oaks Romances. You will meet some of the characters that the series features and see where Tim and Gabby's relationship goes. Their daughters also add a few twists and turns to this story. I love the setting in this book. Emily is an author that will make you want to move or at least visit the area her stories are set in. Her's are fictional towns based on real places, time to head to Iowa! I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a review.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Terrific prequel to the upcoming Many Oaks series, and a lovely tie-in to the Rhythms of Redemption series. Now or Never features Tim, the manager of Awestruck (the band at the heart of the Rhythms series), eight years after the end of To Believe In You. Isabella, his daughter, is an adult and walking a path that he knows isn't good. On their way to New York, they stop at Many Oaks, where former band member Philip lives, to see an up-and-coming band. There, Tim meets Gabby, a nurse practioner with daughter troubles of her own.

The author is adept at writing relatable, likeable characters. They face real challenges. Gabby and Tim are both believers with daughters who are far away from faith. They are also around 50 years old, and it is delightful to read a story about older adults finding love.

I loved this story. Family friendly.

[Sharon Migala · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all but one of the series and have thoroughly enjoyed each one! This story is about Tim Bergeron, the manager of Awestruck. Each of the previous books had been about a band member and Tim played an important part in each of the previous books, but he never had his life together before now.
Tim is trying to make up for a lifetime of not the best parenting decisions so he takes his daughter, Isabella on a road trip to get some quality time with her. He ends up visiting one of Awestrucks's old band members.
Little did he know he would find something he was missing. Love. The story flowed nicely and both Tim and Gabby have chemistry and great conversations. I appreciated seeing Tim come full circle from the disaster he was in the first book. I also came to love him as a character. I would recommend this book!

I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a review.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now or Never by Emily Conrad
The Many Oaks Romances Book One
Tim Bergeron is on a cross-country trip with his daughter, Isabella. He hadn’t been in her life much until she was fourteen. Now that Tim’s a Christian, he’s trying to be the father he should’ve been. But then, he had a health scare and a wake-up call.
Gabby Voss has been a widow for ten years. She never thought she’d find love again, wasn’t looking. So when Tim walked into The Depot, she immediately felt something. But he was only passing through. And she had a daughter that still needed her.
Tim stopped in Many Oaks, Iowa, to check out a band at Philip’s restaurant. Philip had been a member of Awestruck but retired to be there for his young children and new wife.
Another page-turning story by this author. She took a man I wasn’t fond of in the previous series and turned him into a loveable character. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[Diana Acord · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now or Never by Emily Conrad is the prequel to her new series The Many Oaks Romances. For those who have read her Rhythms of Redemption Series (if you haven’t, please read it as it is one of the best Christian romance series I have read!) this novella features Awestruck Band Manager Tim and his now adult daughter Izzy. Tim has come a long way since the final Awestruck book. He is trying to become a better father and hoping Izzy won’t make his same mistakes. Tim discovers love with Gabby in the very small town of Many Oaks but he still has obligations to his clients. This story is a great beginning for her new series and we had glimpses of former bass player Phillip in this book.

I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a review.

[India Tungate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Emily Conrad book and I have been dying to read something of her's. I noticed a sale with the audio version of this book and snatched it up. I feel like I would had enjoyed reading a physical copy of this book more than I did listening but I'm also in my busy season with life and it could had been my head space. Even so, I enjoyed listening to this story. It was refreshing to read something that was a matured relationship, both characters were in their 50's. It was almost a second chance trope since, thanks to Jesus and each other, they were given a second chance. I was swooning with them both and again, it was just an over all refreshing read. I can't wait to pick up more Emily Conrad books. She has the perfect mixture of faith and romance.

[Jessica Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the crossover novella I’ve always wanted! It was so fun to see Tim’s character come back for this story, and watch his growth and development (and romantic side!). Watching his and Gabby’s story play out brought many smiles to my face, and was such a refreshing joy to read. And I couldn’t help but fall in love with Many Oaks and can’t wait to start reading the new series! I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a positive review.

[Elizabeth Koivunen-Fitzgerald]

I loved this story. It is a great transition from one series to another. The story brings home someone on the cusp of really understanding themselves and who they want to be. Trying to keep someone close when you just don't know how to relate to them, but they are so important to you. The opportunity to meet someone new when you don't think you can and giving yourself the grace to try. I really enjoyed this story.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily is an excellent writer! Her writing is insightful, and the characters, the challenges they face, and the dialogue are always realistic and relatable. She has become an auto-buy author for me.

I enjoyed Tim's story and am excited for the series to come!

I received an advance copy of Now or Never, but this is my honest review.

[Sheila McIntyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was not your traditional romance, and I loved it! It is not often you read a story about older people given a chance at love. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Tim and Gabby along with their daughters. I don't want to give away the story, but this truly is a sweet story that you will enjoy!

I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a review.

[Rachel Fahrenbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun and sweet story from Emily!

I enjoyed getting to see a little bit of where Tim's life has headed! He was always a character that was there (I felt bad for him with all the situations with the band he had to deal with!) But we never got more than slight glimpses of him and I always wanted more. This was a fun look into his character and I enjoyed it.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story of second chances for an older couple, the author made it seem so real, difficult decisions, kids and previous grief. I loved the way the relationship developed between Gabby and Tim. I love how they relied on faith to make big decisions and realized how to help their kids with letting go and letting them learn. This is a beautiful story!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing story of Tim finally finding his love.

Misunderstanding, words unspoken are just a couple things that set Tim, Gabby and their daughters up for a rough go. But God guides and directs them as parents to apologize and ask for forgiveness as they seek to restore these relationships.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and If I had set enough time aside I would have finished it within a day! Looking forward to reading the rest in the series and seeing how Tim and Gabby's story continues to unfold.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great characters.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.

The main characters are older adults with challenging relationships with their adult children. There's drama all over, but it all seems realistic and there were no easy answers. Just hope.

[Megan Ericson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely little addition to the Rhythms of Redemption series! I loved reading Tim’s back story and meeting Gabby.

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the no drama aspect of the older couple in this story, but the book just slammed finished.

No resolution for the daughters…

I’m scratching my head wondering what happened.

[Joelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

good, easy read

This was a great book. It was face paced and easy to read. It had highs and lows. I am excited to read another book by Emily.

[Tanya Moe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute middle aged romance. Loved several of her other books. Some just don't hit the same.