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20 January 2015

Diana Flowers Reviews Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund

Love Unexpected

Reviewed by Diana Flowers
(No Spoilers!)
Intrigue and Romance!
In Love Unexpected, author Jody Hedlund sweeps us away to Presque Isle, Michigan -- a remote fishing village where a lighthouse is strategically placed along the craggy shoreline to warn fishermen of imminent danger, the smell of pine trees and salty fish assault the readers' senses, and dangerous pirates lurk in the cold, murky, turbulent waters of Lake Huron!
 
When Emma and her brother, Ryan, are left for dead in their fishing boat by vicious pirates, Patrick Garrity comes to their rescue. Patrick is the widowed father of a toddler and the lighthouse keeper in a remote fishing village. Ryan is taken in by a family who does not want Emma, so she accepts the most practical solution available. Patrick needs a mother for Josiah, and Emma who longs to finally have a home of her own, enters into a marriage of convenience with this seemingly God-fearing man. It is not long, however, before she begins to have dreadful misgivings. Although Emma dearly loves Josiah he is given to terrible temper tantrums, she has no domestic skills, and to make matters worse Patrick carries deep secrets involving his past. Soon Emma begins to wonder if this man she is falling for is all that he appears to be. As the gossip swirls around her as thick and dark as the turbid waters of Lake Huron, will she sink once again -- this time with no beacon of hope to light her way?
 
Jody Hedlund has written a wonderfully descriptive, fiction-based-on-fact story about lighthouses, breathtaking romance, and.....pirates? Yes, indeed! Pirates on Lake Huron is something I was not aware of and totally intensified my interest in this book...as did my love of towering, majestic lighthouses. I really enjoyed the main characters (thumb sucking Josiah was adorable in spite of his temper), but poor Emma was so naïve I wanted to shake her and give her a big hug at the same time. The angst and romantic tension is so palatable it'll leave your heart racing erratically...ahhh, such exquisite torture. Along with plenty of descriptive imagery, a strong message of hope and forgiveness, and a few gnarly pirates thrown in the mix!...this novel makes for a very satisfying read!
 
This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, and your local bookstore.
 
Thank you to Net Galley for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.


GIVEAWAY: Author Jody Hedlund is generously giving away a paperback copy of Love Unexpected to one blessed commenter!
 
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54 comments:

  1. UnknownJanuary 20, 2015 at 8:32 AM

    This is such a delightful and expressive review of this wonderful story,Diana!! And I believe it has 'illuminated' all the exceptional components of this memorable story brilliantly! :-) Exquisite torture indeed!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 8:35 AM

      Thank you, NOELA! You have brightened up my morning with your enlightening comment! :)

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  2. PamJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:09 AM

    I agree! Your review is so good that I want to read Love Unexpected right now! I would love to win a copy.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:13 AM

      Good morning, PAM! Thx so much and good luck in the giveaway!

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  3. J.GraceJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:26 AM

    Descriptive settings, intrigue, romance and pirates. Sounds like a great book!

    Thanks for the giveaway

    Janella

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:35 AM

      Gotta love those nasty pirates, JANELLA! I'm looking forward to the 2nd book in the series!

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  4. Teresa MathewsJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:34 AM

    DIANA you must stop with these outstanding reviews; after reading them I never want to post another one! ;-) Seriously thank you for shedding such a beautiful light on this book, now I must go in search of it, so I can have my day illumined by Jody's sparkling writings!

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:41 AM

      LOL Thank you, my twin! Methinks just seeing the word "pirates" has brightened your day! I'm glad I could enlighten you about another amazing book!

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  5. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 10:37 AM

    Hi, SHARON! Here's hoping you get a copy ASAP! Perhaps here! :)

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  6. KavJanuary 20, 2015 at 12:05 PM

    Is it just me or does Jody Hedlund's book just get betterer and betterer? :-) I loved this one. Like you I was surprised about lake pirates. Who knew?! And they were a nasty lot too!!! Love discovering new things in history when I read. Don't enter me in the draw 'cause I have a well-loved copy of it. Looking forward to the next in the series. I love lighthouse stories.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 12:41 PM

      Who knew? Not I! The queen of reviews came over to read mine? EEK! Welcome to OWG, KAV! I love discovering new things as well, and when it's in a fiction novel it's so fun you don't realize you are learning! :P I LOVE lighthouse stories, too...there is something so intriguing about them!

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  7. LindsayJanuary 20, 2015 at 1:00 PM

    I have really been wanting to read this book! Thanks for the chance!

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  8. PattyJanuary 20, 2015 at 1:16 PM

    I love Jody's books! And growing up in MI I would love to read this book.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 1:36 PM

      I've never been there, PATTY, but I already know a lot about it thanks to Jody's descriptive writing! Thx for sharing!

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  9. UnknownJanuary 20, 2015 at 2:31 PM

    I've heard so many good things about this book, I'm anxious to read it! Thanks for you're review, Diana! I've always liked Jody's books, I'm sure this one will be another favorite of mine!

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 2:47 PM

      She IS a wonderful author, REGINA! Hope you'll get a copy in your hands real soon!

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  10. Caryl KaneJanuary 20, 2015 at 5:01 PM

    Diana thank you for your review. I grew up near a lighthouse on the Texas Gulf Coast. I can't wait to read LOVE UNEXPECTED.

    Blessings

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 5:20 PM

      Well, that is pretty cool, CARYL! I'm sure you'll enjoy the lighthouse setting in this one!

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  11. ASC Book ReviewsJanuary 20, 2015 at 7:06 PM

    :) Wow! I REALLY wanted to read this before, but now I REALLY REALLY want to! :D This sounds SO good, and I know what a fabulous author Jody is! It's been a couple years since I've read Nobel Groom, but I can STILL think back and remember the great scenes and how much I enjoyed it!!!

    Many Blessings, Amada (pronounced: a.m.a.th.a)
    amada_chavezATyahooDOTcom

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 7:35 PM

      AMADA, I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY want you to get the chance to read this one soon. I love your enthusiasm! You're so cute! Lol

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    2. ASC Book ReviewsJanuary 21, 2015 at 4:28 PM

      Thank you Diana! :) When it comes to GREAT Christian Fiction I can't help but get excited! :D

      Hugs, Amada

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    3. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 5:04 PM

      Me neither, AMADA! Before I joined FB, I thought I was the only one who got so excited over Christian fiction. (Well, me and my family members who I loaned books to.) Boy, was I mistaken! There's a whole bunch of us who do! YAY for Christian fiction! lol

      Hugs back!

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    4. ASC Book ReviewsJanuary 21, 2015 at 8:00 PM

      Amen! And I am SO glad God has lead me to all of the blogs, fb groups, sites, etc. where we (Christian fiction lovers and Christ lovers in general) gather! Not to mention the authors! I LOVE the fellowship and support we all find together!!! :)

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    5. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 8:07 PM

      AMEN! Me too, AMADA! God is good!!

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  12. Bonnie RoofJanuary 20, 2015 at 7:42 PM

    A beautiful, descriptive review - Diana, thank you!!

    I love lighthouses, having lived very near one when I lived in an apartment on the banks of Lake Michigan - some years ago - and have a collection of pics from each lighthouse that I have visited, over the years . I just wish I was still able to climb to the stop of them for that magnificent view. Pirates on Lake Huron was a surprise to me, as well.

    I am mesmerized by the cover of "Love Unexpected" - it's beautiful!! I have 5 of Jody's books and although I haven't had the opportunity to read all of them yet, based on your review - I know that I will have to have this one also, lol. Love all that dysfunction, angst and secrets - in addition to the romance and spiritual lessons!!

    Shared post!!

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:02 PM

      Lots of anxious moments, BONNIE! lol Well, I never knew you were a lighthouse lover and have a collection of pics of them! You will certainly enjoy this novel then as Jody really goes into depth with her descriptions of how the light is to be lit, etc. She certainly did her research!

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  13. AngiJanuary 20, 2015 at 8:00 PM

    Hey Diana! Another great review! Jody has quickly become a favorite author of mine with her heart-throb heroes and awesome stories. And like others have said, I didn't know there were pirates on the lakes. Another reason I love stories like these. It's like having a history lesson, only better. ;) Would love to read this book. Please enter me in the drawing. Thank you!

    bookwarp(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:06 PM

      Hey, ANGI! Like having a history lesson that isn't boring! lol Jody is a wonderful writer and I have read a lot of her books. All good! Lotsa luck in the drawing!

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  14. Pam K.January 20, 2015 at 8:12 PM

    I've never been disappointed with a Jody Hedlund book. She's on my ever-expanding favorite author list, so I want to read every book she writes. Thanks for your review of Love Unexpected and the chance to win it.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:09 PM

      I love it when I have fave authors that I can say I have read all their books from the very 1st one, PAM! I haven't read all of Jody's bc of time, but have enjoyed all the ones I have!

      Delete
  15. Mary PrestonJanuary 20, 2015 at 8:27 PM

    Thank you for such a fantastic review. On my reading list. Something to look forward to.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:10 PM

      Very interesting reading, MARY! Thank you for your kind words!

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  16. susanluluJanuary 20, 2015 at 8:55 PM

    I've heard some great things about this author, but haven't had the opportunity to read any of her books yet. Hopefully soon!
    Susan in NC
    susanlulu@yahoo.com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 20, 2015 at 9:12 PM

      Oh my, SUSAN! You need a win here! You have to try one of her books asap, my friend! Blessings and good luck!!

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  17. Melanie BackusJanuary 20, 2015 at 11:40 PM

    I absolutely love the cover of this book. I have heard great things about Love Unexpected and I know I would enjoy reading it. Thank you for the opportunity!

    mauback55 at gmail dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 8:06 AM

      I believe you will enjoy it, MELANIE! Jody is a gifted storyteller!

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  18. SonjaJanuary 21, 2015 at 8:57 AM

    Beautiful cover. I am sure I would love this. Great author, that I know already! sonja dot nishimoto at gmail dot com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 9:26 AM

      Indeed she is, SONJA! And the lovely cover matches the story, too! :)

      Delete
  19. spangldladyJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:04 AM

    I haven't been here for sometime but I still am aware of the books and websites. I know I would love reading this one--it sounds like it is right up my "alley." The cover is beautiful and I'd love to win it. Darlene

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:21 AM

      DARLENE, I've missed you! I hope you are well. I believe you'll enjoy Jody's book when you get the chance to read it. Take care!

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  20. Between the Pages with KatrinaJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:07 AM

    What a wonderful review. I am drawn to this beautiful cover. This sounds like a great story.
    eppersonkatrina(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:22 AM

      The cover is a beauty. Who could resist it on a bookstore shelf? Good luck in the drawing, KATRINA!

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  21. Laurean BrooksJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:51 AM

    Jody, this book sounds wonderful! The way you described the conflict made me want to get in there and fight for Emma. I'd love to read and own a copy.Thanks. landtbeth@yahoo.com

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 10:55 AM

      LAUREN, thank you! Poor Emma needed the help, let me tell you. She basically had no one, and often went to the wrong source. :( Thx so much for coming by and good luck to you!

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    2. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 4:21 PM

      Oops, I apologize for misspelling your name, LAUREAN. What a pretty name!

      Delete
  22. AnonymousJanuary 21, 2015 at 3:50 PM

    Diana, very good review as usual. I really need to read this book. Sounds very interesting. Please put my name in. Hello to all of my OWG girls. GOD bless each of you. ( Maxie > mac262(at)me(dot)com < )
    Please continue to pray for my brother. He is still in the Veterans Hospital in Syracuse, NY. Has a feeding tube in and taking radiation, tho doctors have already said that they can't get all of the cancer in his jaw. A very sad situation for him and all of the family.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 4:24 PM

      Thank you, MAXIE! You really DO need to read this book! :)

      God bless you and I'll let the others know to continue to pray for your brother. I'm very sorry, MAXIE.

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  23. Mrs TinaJanuary 21, 2015 at 5:33 PM

    Loved the review Diana. Sounds like a great book. I love lighthouses too.
    I love the cover and Jody's books.
    Blessings, Tina

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 21, 2015 at 6:03 PM

      Thank you so much, TINA! Jody is a great little writer and lighthouses seem to fascinate alot of ppl. There's just something intriguing about them! Awesome cover, I agree!

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  24. UnknownJanuary 22, 2015 at 8:19 AM

    Intriguing.

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  25. DebJanuary 22, 2015 at 4:06 PM

    Have read some of Jody's books, and really enjoyed them. Love lighthouses, I have a nice collection of them. Thank you so much for the opportunity to win this book, it really sounds so good. have a Blessed Day.

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    1. Diana FlowersJanuary 22, 2015 at 6:35 PM

      Hi, DEB! I would love to see your collection! :) Blessings~

      Delete

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