Love Everlasting (Isle of Hope Series, Book 2)
By Julie Lessman, September 30, 2016
"I've learned the hard way that I need to see love in action as well as hear it." (Love Everlasting)
Isle of Hope, Georgia
Reviewed by Bonnie Roof
~5 stars~
Driving the inebriated Dr. Sam Cunningham home after a fancy fundraiser for Memorial Hospital - as a favor to her brother Jack, Sam's friend and co-worker - proves to be much more than Shannon O'Bryen bargained for. Sam is known as "love 'em and leave 'em" charismatic player, Dr. Love, at Memorial - after having her heart broken by someone very similar, Shannon is content with her single life as a school teacher and ghostwriter of romance books.
Abandoned as a baby, Sam looks to professional success and an extravagant lifestyle as a way of proving himself worthy of love. After persuading Shannon to give him lessons in winning back his ex-girlfriend - nurse Jasmine Augustine, wealthy daughter of his boss - his eyes are opened to faith and the true definition of love. While slowly becoming attracted to his teacher and her purity, Sam finds she has a few heart-breaking secrets of her own.
Love Everlasting is the second book in the Isle of Hope series by Julie Lessman - it was a joy revisiting members of the O'Bryen family and catching up with the romance between Ben and Tess. While not necessary to read the first book, Isle of Hope, and it's prequel, A Glimmer of Hope, to enjoy Love Everlasting - I feel new readers of the series will be mesmerized by the story and enticed to read the others, excited to enjoy more of the delightful O'Bryens.
Julie's unique style and passion in writing romance and her gift of developing realistic characters and story lines - frequently drawing from experiences in her own life, have insured a "love everlasting" for her characters with me. Her bits of humor, exquisite descriptions, and heart-pounding twists in each book are exceeded only by the "happily ever after" ending through the redemption of her flawed characters by a loving God.
I loved Shannon's story in Love Everlasting and look forward to the final book in the series - the story of Cat, Shannon's twin sister. The 'Isle of Hope' series - Julie's entry into the field of contemporary Christian fiction - contains all of the elements readers have come to love from her historical Christian fiction. Each of Julie's books, historical or contemporary, is a 5+ star book for me - I can't recommend them highly enough!
This novel is available in ebook format on Amazon and will soon be available in paperback!
In honor of the release of Love Everlasting: the e-book of A Glimmer of Hope is FREE, the e-book of Isle of Hope is half-price at $3.99. All three books are available on Amazon. Julie also has a novella in the Cowboy Christmas Homecoming: Four Historical Novellas, through Gilead Publishing - releasing this month and available at Amazon, CBD, and Barnes & Noble.
Giveaway: Julie is graciously gifting one blessed commenter NOW with his/her choice of an e-book of either Love Everlasting or Isle of Hope - OR - a paperback of Love Everlasting, available in November, 2016. (International winners ebook only.)
Bonnie, thank you for your lovely review! I just love this series so much and I wasn't sure to start with if a "JULIE" contemporary would work for me. It worked! lol
ReplyDeleteLOL, DIANA, you weren't alone in that, I'm afraid. To most of my readers I'm a historical author, so my foray into contemporary scared even me!! Trust me, I was hitting my daughter up left and write for today's terminology since I'm an old fogey, and she's a hip young gal! ;)
DeleteHugs and more hugs!
Julie
Thank you so much, Diana!! And thanks for your help today since either blogger or my desktop computer (perhaps both, LOL) is trying to make posting reviews difficult today.
DeleteEach of Julie's readers were probably curious as to how her contemporary writing would turn out, I have no doubt she could instill that passion and all the other wonderful elements from her historicals in ANY genre and we would love it. She puts so much of herself into everything she writes!!
Great review Bonnie!
ReplyDeleteNow I want this series even more than before.
ANDREA!! Trust me, girl, I WANT you to have this series even more, especially since it contains lessons I learned the hard way, so I know they work well.
DeleteAnd if you don't win here, be sure to stop by my website calendar for 16 other chances to win, okay? Here's the link and GOOD LUCK!!
JULIE’S CALENDAR
Also, if you'd like to read my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes from some of my books to check out my writing style, you can do so at the following EXCERPTS link:
JULIE’S EXCERPTS
And finally, I hope you take advantage of the FREE DOWNLOAD of the prequel novella to my Isle of Hope series, so here's the link for that too:
A GLIMMER OF HOPE
Hugs and HAPPY READING!!
Julie
Hi, Andrea!! I think you will love the 'Isle of Hope' series - a warning: be sure to also take advantage of the free copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope' and 'Isle of Hope' at half-price - it's an addicting series!!
DeleteThanks for your comments and don't forget to leave your email addy - for contact purposes, should you be our winner!!
You have peaked my interest :-) I enjoy reading Julie's books.
ReplyDeleteCHRISTINE, soooooo glad Bonnie has "peaked" your interest because I would love to introduce you to the O'Bryens and especially Shannon and Sam!
DeleteThank you for reading my books, and I hope you'll enjoy this one as well.
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!
JULIE
Christine, if you enjoy Julie's writing - you will love 'Love Everlasting', it's "trademark Julie" and a beautiful story!! Thanks for commenting - enjoy!!
DeleteCHRISTINE: please leave your email addy for contact purposes, should you be our winner. Thanks!!
DeleteBONNIE!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE this review, my sweet friend, especially this clever line: "Julie's unique style and passion in writing romance and her gift of developing realistic characters and story lines - frequently drawing from experiences in her own life, have insured a "love everlasting" for her characters with me."
LOL ... that is ADORABLE and so are you!! Thank you for being one of my biggest supporters and dearest friends. God blessed me, indeed, when He caused our paths to cross. :)
Love you to pieces and THANK YOU sooooo very much for all you have done for me!
Hugs and more hugs,
Julie
Julie - there aren't enough complimentary words in the dictionary to describe the inspiration, blessing, and enjoyment your love for God, prayers, friendship, and writing have brought me - thank you!! I'm honored to have a tiny part in helping make readers aware of the inspiration, enjoyment, and life-changing possibilities available through reading and adhering to the faith principles found in your books. Love you dearly!!
DeleteWonderful review Bonnie!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your book Julie! I love the setting of the story and inspiring stories showing God's redemption and forgiveness.
Blessings, Tina
Hey, MRS. TINA, thank you! And, OH WOW, the setting is one of the best things about this book, seriously. I wanted an island on the Eastern Seaboard, so I prayed about it and decided to look at a map around Savannah. Imagine my shock when I discovered Isle of Hope -- a low-country peninsula 15 minutes away from Savannah that turns into an island at high tide!! Not only is it rich in history (it was a key location during the Civil War), but it's so pretty that a number of movies have been filmed there, including Forrest Gump, The Last Song, and the first Cape Fear. And the best part? Isle of Hope is the perfect place for my story of "hope"!!
DeleteGood luck in the contest, and I hope I can send you a copy of LE!
Hugs,
Julie
Tina, you must tour Isle of Hope if you're ever in the Savannah area - a small area but such a beautifully historic one. I guarantee you will imagine Julie's characters bounding across the lawn when you reach the beautiful street she uses as the setting for Tess and Ben's houses and docks. The redemption and forgiveness themes in each of Julie's books are so inspiring, aren't they?? Thanks for your sweet comments!!
DeleteBONNIE, your review is AMAZING! No need to enter me since I have won a paperback copy. I'm stopping by to say HELLO.
ReplyDeleteCaryl, you are SUCH a doll, my friend, and because you are a winner of one of my contests already and such a great support for me, I would be happy to send you an e-copy of LE while you are waiting for the paperback if you want, so just let me know, okay?
DeleteHugs!!
Julie
Caryl, I always appreciate, so much, your beautiful comments, joy, and support - thank you!! I loved seeing your name in 'Love Everlasting' - Julie has bestowed such an honor and blessing on each reader whose name she has included in her books - enjoy!!
DeleteThis looks like such an amazing series, every review has been exceptional. Of course, I want to read it!
ReplyDeleteOh, REBECCA, all I know is it is a VERY special series for me personally since it's loosely based on my own dysfunctional relationship with my estranged father and my most spiritual book to date, so that in and of itself, makes it "amazing" to me! :)
DeleteHope I get to send you a winning copy!!
Hugs,
Julie
Rebecca - the stories in the Isle of Hope series are heart-stealers just as with each of Julie's other books. They have especially touched and blessed me as I, too, was able to relate to some of the dysfunction within them. Good luck - if you haven't read any of them, please take advantage of the free download on 'A Glimmer of Hope' and the half-price bargain on 'Isle of Hope', they won't last long. Thanks for your wonderful comments!!
DeleteThanks for your great review. I always love Julie's books.
ReplyDeletepmkellogg56[at]gmail[dot]com
Me too, Pam - I have every book she's written in all formats, LOL. You will love 'Love Everlasting' also - it includes all those beautiful elements you love so much in Julie's writing. Thanks for your comments and good luck in the drawing!!
DeletePAM, thanks for coming by, my friend, and I sure hope I get to send you a winning copy of LE, so GOOD LUCK!!
ReplyDeleteHUGS,
Julie
Lovely review Bonnie! I need this one to have a complete set....until the next one that is ;-)
ReplyDeleteteamob4 (at) gmail (dot) com
Thank you so much, Trixi - I always love the sense of humor in your comments!! I always have a complete set of Julie's writing also - until the next one, LOL!! Sounds like you never get enough of her writing - something I fully relate to, her writing is in a wonderful class of it's own!!
DeleteLOL, yes, Trixi, you do, so we'll have to see what we can do about that. But your chances are pretty good with 18 giveaways going on, so I hope you check them all on my Calendar of my website here:
DeleteJULIE’S CALENDAR
Hugs!
Julie
I loved your review, Bonnie, especially the second last paragraph beginning with "Julie's unique style and passion.." That is such a perfect summary of Julie's amazing books! I can hardly wait to read this one. I KNOW I will be touched and ministered to, because I always am. And I know I will not want to put it down either. Probably why I haven't picked it up. As you and Julie know, the Fibro and CF have been taking quite a bit of time away from me lately, and I'm trying so hard to keep up with commitments. I WILL get there! :)
ReplyDeleteNOELA ... Bonnie has kept me apprised of your situation specifically so I can be praying, and I have been for you and all the OWG angels. PLEASE do not feel there is any hurry to read LE -- read it your convenience, my friend, because I want you to enjoy it and not be stressed, okay?
DeleteHugs and more hugs and some on top of that!
Julie
Thank you for your sweet comments, Noela!! Like you, I have been touched and ministered to by each of Julie's books also - the reason I love them so much. I am a reader who appreciates being educated and ministered to as well as being entertained while reading. Julie's writing not only ministers to me personally, but opens my heart to the problems of others. LOL, the one problem with her books is the reader's reluctance to put them down before reading them in entirety, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteI so understand and relate to the issues involved re: illness and keeping up with commitments. Everyone who knows you also knows your love for reading/reviewing and the excellence in your reviews, as well as your dedication to all that you do and your zeal in promoting the benefits of reading. You and your health issues are always on my prayer list, as well as those of each member of the OWG team. Each of us has such a love for what we do, we can tend to be a bit hard on ourselves when we aren't able to accomplish all we would like as often as we would like. I'm grateful for your commitment and all that you do, as well as that of each team member at OWG. There is joy in knowing each person honors God with her reviews, His enemy is far from happy at that and lets it be known to us in every way possible. Hugs!!
I'm in need of a fiery romance...in books I mean! LOL And Julie, you're the only one who can save me.haha! :))
ReplyDeleteHi, Rose!! You'll definitely find a healthy dose of passion, more than one kind - in fact, in 'Love Everlasting'. You'll love the entertainment factor while also being greatly inspired!! Enjoy, and thanks for your wonderful comments!!
DeleteRose, please leave your email addy, for contact purposes - should you be our winner. Thank you!!
DeleteLOL, ROSE!! Well, girlfriend, do I have some "fire" for you -- both romantically AND spiritually, so I sure hope you win!
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK in the draw, sweetie!!
Julie
I love Julie!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance to win a print copy.
Blessings!!
moma3homeschool(at)gmail(dot)com
Yes - that sweet, inspiring lady has won the love of so many readers, Michelle!! She's as real as they come, pouring all that realness into her beautiful books. Thanks for your sweet comments, I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy 'Love Everlasting' very soon. You're 'gonna love it!!
DeleteWHOOPS, MICHELLE ... I put my comment to you in a new comment, so see below.
DeleteHugs!!
Julie
Thank you Bonnie for this marvelous review of Love Everlasting! You did a wonderful job of describing why I love this story and Julie Lessman! This is definitely brilliant story of love,family and inspiration. All by an author that puts so much heart into her stories and generously shares it with the reader. Which can also be said of you Bonnie, thank you for putting your heart into each and every review!
ReplyDeleteSuch beautiful comments, Lynne - thank you so much!! That love, family, inspiration, and heart that Julie pours into each of her stories are the things that endear her to her readers - 'Love Everlasting' is a heart-grabbing example. I don't know if I could ever adequately express the beauty, passion, and inspiration of Julie's writing - however, I do pray for God's leading in the reviews I write for all Christian Fiction authors, the goal always to inform as many readers as possible of the entertainment, education, inspiration - and even life-changing words that can be found in their work.
DeleteI'm so glad Julie named a character after you in 'Love Everlasting' - you love her writing so much. I can't thank you enough for your sweet friendship and your support of OWG, Christian Fiction, and me, personally!! Hugs!!
WHOOPS ... these "reply" links on the original message tend to mess me up, so I put my response in a new comment below, Lynne! :)
DeleteHugs,
Julie
MICHELLE!!! Thank you, my friend, and I LOVE sweet reader friends like YOU, so thanks for coming by and here's to a win!
ReplyDeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK!
Julie
God bless you, LYNNE, for your support and encouragement! You are a special lady and a dear reader friend. Wish I could give you a hug in person.
ReplyDeleteHugs and more hugs,
Julie
I completely agree with you Bonnie, Julie's books are all 5 star or more. Only under duress, extreme pressure, or the need for food money, would I give up my copies of Julie's books. Love the characters (most of them), the spiritual learnings, and definitely the passion. My favorite books! :)
ReplyDeleteAmen, you pretty much nailed it re: the only reasons your relinquishing Julie's books would be considered, Kathy - LOL!! Since I own every book she has written in both paperback and e-book, as well as 1 in audio book - you know I echo each of your beautiful comments re: Julie and her writing. Unsurpassed, in my "book"!! Thanks for commenting!!
DeleteKATHY: please leave your email address - for contact purposes, should you be our winner!! Thank you!!
DeleteKATHY SAID: "Only under duress, extreme pressure, or the need for food money, would I give up my copies of Julie's books."
DeleteLOL ... since I don't want you under "duress, extreme pressure, or in need of food or money, I am praying you win, Kath, so GOOD LUCK!!
YOU ALSO SAID: "Love the characters (most of them), the spiritual learnings, and definitely the passion. My favorite books! :)"
THANK YOU for your truly sweet comment, but uh ... when you say you like "MOST" of the characters, you aren't leaving sweet Charity out, are you??? ;)
Hugs!!
Julie
Fun review! Love Julie's books! I'm looking forward to more Tess and Ben. They are great. =) khend1988 [at] gmail [dot] com.
ReplyDeleteKATY, good girl!! You're hitting all the blog-tour giveaways, so you have a GREAT chance at being one of the 18 winners, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!!
DeleteAnd Tess and Ben are favorites of mine, too. ESPECIALLY Ben ... hubba-hubba!! ;)
Hugs,
Julie
Believe it or not, Ben stole my heart in 'Love Everlasting', Katy - he made me laugh out loud. You'll love Shannon and Sam's story also. Thanks for your wonderful comments!!
DeleteAlways a fan of Julie's books and owner of many of them, particularly the Boston books, as I term them. Intriguing review! Thanks. Cathy. dixiedobie at yahoo dot com
ReplyDeleteIf you haven't read any of Julie's contemporary books, you have a treat in store for you Cathy - they're "classic" Julie with all the elements you loved in her historical fiction. If you love her writing, you'll love 'Love Everlasting' also. Be sure to take advantage of the FREE copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope' and 'Isle of Hope at half price - if you don't have them. Thanks for your great comments and good luck!!
DeleteThanks, CATHY, for your ongoing support, and just FYI -- I intend to continue the "Boston books" down the road with a trilogy on each of the cousins during WWII, beginning with Gabe, Henry, Hope, and Winnie. :)
DeleteGood luck in the draw, Cath, and mega hugs to both you and Bonnie!!
Hugs,
Julie
I love Julie Lessman's historical fiction. I'm very excited to get my hands on this contemporary series, I know it will be great.
ReplyDeleteI think you will love Julie's contemporary series just as much as her historical writing, Connie. Shannon and Sam have a beautiful story. If you haven't read any of the books in the series, don't forget to get your FREE copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope' and 'Isle of Hope' at half-price. Enjoy - and thanks for your wonderful comments!!
DeleteCONNIE: please leave your email address - for contact purposes, should you be our winner. Thank you!!
DeleteHey, CONNIE, I must admit, I was a wee bit concerned about writing a contemp just because of the modern terminology that 65-year-old woman doesn't exactly know, you know? But I have a 28-year-old daughter that I bugged a lot, so hopefully I managed to sound authentically modern! ;)
DeleteGood luck and here's to a win, my friend!
Hugs,
Julie
Such generosity. Looking forward to reading from this series. Thank you. klhfrog2atyahoodotcom
ReplyDeleteKLKFROG ... thank you, my friend, and I sure hope I get to send you a winning copy, so GOOD LUCK!!
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Such generosity. Looking forward to reading from this series. Thank you. klhfrog2atyahoodotcom
ReplyDeleteI so agree - klkfrog, Julie has given readers 18 opportunities to win copies of her books this week!! If you haven't read any of the books in the series - you will love the novella and both of the novels. In honor of the release of 'Love Everlasting' - 'A Glimmer of Hope' is FREE and 'Isle of Hope' is half-price. I hope you have the opportunity to read each of them very soon, thanks for commenting!!
DeleteI look forward to reading this series! jarning67(at)hotmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteHi, Joan!! You have a reading treat in store with the Isle of Hope series. Don't forget to get your FREE copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope' and the half-price copy of 'Isle of Hope'. Good luck in the 'Love Everlasting' drawing!!
DeleteJOAN ... I look forward to you reading this series, too, my friend, so GOOD LUCK in the draw!
DeleteAnd, Bonnie, God bless you for your sweet comments and always mentioning the free download -- you ROCK, my friend!!
Hugs,
Julie
My pleasure, Julie - I want to make sure every reader is aware of the free novella and half-price 'Isle of Hope' - to go along with the 'Love Everlasting' they may win - so they will have ALL of the 'Isle of Hope' love, LOL!! What a treat - and thank you for all the wonderful book bargains, giveaway opportunities, and honoring of readers by including their names in your wonderful books!!
DeleteThank you for the great review. I'm a new fan of Julie's since CFRR! I've got my fan ready just in case I'm a winner!! Thanks too for the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteGood thing you have your fan ready, Anne - you're going to need it for sure when reading Julie's books, LOL!! I'm so glad you had the opportunity to become acquainted with Julie's writing through CFRR - she was such a delight that day, wasn't she - but then she always is!! Her writing is just as delightful, she puts so much of herself into her books. Warning: reading her books is addictive, you'll want to read each one of them, LOL. So please take advantage of 'A Glimmer of Hope' for FREE and 'Isle of Hope' at half-price. Thanks for your wonderful comments!!
DeleteHey, ANNE, that blesses me, my friend, that you were at CFRR -- wasn't it WONDERFUL??? I have to say it was not only the best writers-related event I have EVER been to, but the best retreat as well, so I'm glad you got to enjoy it too!
DeleteLOL ... and how fortunate that CFRR gave out fans because you may just need it for Love Everlasting. In my opinion, it's a wee bit more passionate than book 1, Isle of Hope: Unfailing Love, primarily because Sam is a player, so keep the fan handy. ;)
Good luck, my friend -- hope I get to send you a winning copy!!
Hugs,
Julie
With all the giveaways, I'm sure to win a copy right Julie?
ReplyDeleteReading Isle of Hope right now, and looking forward to this one!
pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com
I love and treasure each one of Julie's books, Patty - but 'Isle of Hope' is my very favorite of Julie's books, I so related to some of the characters because of events in my own past. You're going to love 'Love Everlasting' also - it's such fun revisiting the families, Shannon's story is beautiful, and Ben is a real "hoot"!! Thanks for your comments!!
DeletePATTY, YES!!! The force (and the odds) are with you, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!!
DeleteAnd THANK YOU for reading Isle of Hope. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!!
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
This series is on my TBR list. I am on Julie's newsletter list and she has been sharing different snippets from this series. Some of the the quotes have truly touched and challenged my heart. What a great series that so movingly shares God's redemption and forgiveness. Thanks, Bonnie, for your great review and further enticing me to read this book and series! ~Alison Boss
ReplyDeletenj(dot)bossman(at)gmail(dot)com
Alison, I think you're going to want to move this series to the top of your TBR list. If you're new to Julie's writing, you'll find that every one of her books is powerful - each one "touching and challenging your heart", each one full of God's redemption and forgiveness. Please don't forget to get your FREE copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope', and 'Isle of Hope' at half-price. Thanks for your sweet comments - good luck, and enjoy!!
DeleteHey, ALISON, thank you SO MUCH for subscribing to my newsletter. Hopefully with only one or two a year, I don't clog your email up too much. ;)
DeleteAnd thank you, too, for touching on the spirituality of my books. There's always a lot of hoo-ha about the romantic passion in my books, but the truth is that my books are far more spiritually passionate than even romantically passionate, so I appreciate your comment. And Isle of Hope: Unfailing Love is THE MOST spiritual of all my books, primarily because it's loosely based on my own dysfunctional relationship with my estranged father, so hopefully it will touch you even more.
Hugs and good luck in the contest, my friend!
Julie
I read Isle of Hope and now I want to read this one. Not only have I been hearing great things about this book. The blog reviews have me hooked. Julie Lessman can write romantic fiction like none other. spotts06(at)comcast(dot)net
ReplyDeleteAmen, Stella - Julie definitely has a beautiful unique style of writing romantic fiction like none other. 'Isle of Hope' stole my heart, but the story in 'Love Everlasting' is beautiful, touching, and inspiring also. Thanks for your beautiful comments!!
DeleteSTELLA!!!!! Have I told you yet how much I love your name, girlfriend??? Marlon Brando sure made it famous, didn't he?
DeleteThank you for your sweet comment, my friend, and I hope you enjoy Love Everlasting. I will say that it's not as long the first book (IOH is 520 pages; LE only 313) or as deep, but it's a nice continuation of a family I love.
And, Stella, if you haven't written a review for Isle of Hope: Unfailing Love yet, I would love it if you did, my friend, and it can be as short as one or two lines, saying you liked it or not. Most people don’t realize how critical good reviews are to authors -- especially on indie books like the Isle of Hope series -- but so many potential readers base their book-buying decisions on the number of good reviews posted, that a review is the best way to bless an author you enjoy. BUT … if reviews are NOT your thing, NO WORRIES!! I’m just SO grateful you read my books in the first place!
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!
Julie
Sounds like a winner to me !
ReplyDeletemauback55 at gmail dot com
'Love Everlasting' is a winner for sure, Melanie!! Each of Julie's other books is also - I love each and every one, no one writes like Julie!! Good luck - hope you have the opportunity to enjoy 'Love Everlasting' very soon!!
DeleteHEY, MEL, I hope so, my friend, so here's hoping you are a "winner" too!
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
I just read Isle of Hope and love these characters! Looking forward to catching up with them! Thanks for the giveaway! cyndilou83(at)gmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteJulie writes such beautiful family scenes, doesn't she - Cyndi?? So glad you had the opportunity to read 'Isle of Hope'- you're going to love reuniting with the characters in 'Love Everlasting' and reading Shannon's story!! Thanks for your wonderful comments, enjoy 'Love Everlasting'!!
DeleteCYNDI, thank you SO much for reading IOH, my friend, and don't you just love Tess & Ben? They are faves of mine because obviously I relate more to them since I am a wee bit older ... ;) Now THERE's an understatement if ever there was!!
DeleteTrust me, you're gonna love their story in LE, so here's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
I know it's going to be a great book! I hope to win!!😀
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance!
grandmama_brenda(at)yahoo(dot)com
That it is, Brenda!! Shannon and Sam will steal your heart "hook, line, and sinker" - you'll love those fishing scenes in 'Love Everlasting' also, one in particular!! Thanks for commenting!!
DeleteAh ... that's what I like to see, BRENDA -- optimism regarding my books because I happen to think they're good, but mostly because of their spiritual messages. BUT ... it's the readers like yourself who say yay or nay, so I hope you say YAY!!
DeleteHUGS AND GOOD LUCK IN THE DRAW!!
Julie
And I can't wait for you to read it, Kate!! 'Love Everlasting' is such a beautiful story - please enjoy it very soon. Thanks for commenting!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your review Bonnie and this giveaway!! I have eBooks of both but would love a print copy. Can't wait to read this !
ReplyDeleteBlessings. Joy
ibjoy1953(at) yahoo. Dot com
A huge blessing for sure, Joy - as are you!! Love that title!! I completely understand the desire to have both eBook and print copy of favorite books- I have both print and eBook of each of Julie's books. E-books are handy for "on-the-go" but will never compare with print books for me - paper makes for more beautiful covers, pages, author signatures, and keeping. You will love Shannon and Sam's story in 'Love Everlasting'!! Thanks for your comments - blessings back, Joy!!
DeleteJOY, thank you SO much for your support, my friend, and let's just see what we can do about getting a paperback copy in your hot little hands, okay?
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest!
Julie
Another book by my favorite author! I would love to win a copy of Love Everlasting! martha(at)lclink(dot)com
ReplyDeleteMARTHA!!! SO great to see you here, my sweet friend, and HOLY COW!! "Favorite Author"???? I'm thinking you meant to say "a favorite author" with ALL the amazing CBA books you read, my friend, but I'll take it because that is a HUGE compliment!!
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK in the draw!
Julie
I so relate, Martha!! Julie's work is just the second Christian Fiction author I read (the first being Liz Curtis Higgs) - when I find an author whose work I love, I must read/own everything he/she writes. Julie's work stole my heart with the first few lines of hers I read - so I have everything she has written in all formats, LOL. You will love the beautiful story in 'Love Everlasting' - just as you have Julie's other books!! Thanks for your sweet comments!!
DeleteYou are a new author to me, but this series sounds wonderful, even though, I don't often read anything but historicals and Westerns. Thanks for the free ebook. I cannot wait to read it.
ReplyDeleteCONNIE!!! I actually have TEN historicals out there and am currently working on an 11th, which just happens to be ... ta-da! ... a WESTERN!! So, it looks like we could be in business, my friend! ;)
DeleteMy most popular historicals are about a tight-knit Irish family in the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series, the first book of which won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently has 869 five-star reviews on Amazon, so it's not a dog, I promise. It's currently free on Kindle Unlimited and only $5.99 if you are not a KU member. BUT ... the prequel novel to that series -- A Light in the Window -- is on sale for only $2.99, has won three awards and has 276 five-stars on Amazon, so you can't go wrong. AND ... here's the video my artist hubby did for ALITW using my daughter as the model for both the cover and video. Hope you enjoy it.:)
A LIGHT IN THE WINDOW VIDEO
But I hope you win my contemporary, too, my friend, because I have a feeling this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship! ;)
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!
Julie
Connie - readers have loved Julie's historical books, but I honestly have to say I think you will love the writing in her contemporary books just as much. The passion, realism, families, unexpected twists, humor, happy ending, romance, and faith are elements in each of her books - no matter the genre. She pours so much of herself into her books, including many personal experiences - one of the reasons they're so realistic.
DeleteSo please enjoy both her historical and contemporary - I think you will become addicted to her writing and be compelled to read every one of her books, as I have, LOL. Don't forget the half-price on the first book in the Isle of Hope series, the free novella you downloaded is the background for it. And since you love westerns, in addition to the western series Julie is now writing - she also has a western novella in the 'Cowboy Christmas Homecoming' releasing this week. She's mentioned some bargains on her historical books also, so I hope you are able to take advantage of all her book bargains while they're on sale. I think you will love her beautiful writing!! Thanks so much for your wonderful comments!!
I guess the giveaway now you mentioned in your great review for Love Everlasting is over. I forgot to leave my email if I win a copy.
ReplyDeletec4kwhite(at)gmail(dot)com
I guess the giveaway now you mentioned in your great review for Love Everlasting is over. I forgot to leave my email if I win a copy.
ReplyDeletec4kwhite(at)gmail(dot)com
You are a new author to me, but this series sounds wonderful, even though, I don't often read anything but historicals and Westerns. Thanks for the free ebook. I cannot wait to read it.
ReplyDeleteLove her historical fiction and can't wait to dig into the contemporary ones. Just downloaded the novella and am looking forward to the series. Thanks!
ReplyDeletemindyhoung (at) msn (dot) com
Mindy, if you love Julie's historical fiction - you will love her contemporary as well, all her trademark writing elements from the historical fiction are present in the contemporary. Don't forget the first book in the series, Isle of Hope - the novella you downloaded gives the background story for it. Trust me, you have such a reading treat in store for you with the Isle of Hope series, enjoy and good luck in the drawing. Thanks for your comments!!
DeleteMINDY, thanks SO much for your sweet comment and for downloading the novella! It's very brief, but a good intro to book one, Isle of Hope: Unfailing Love, so I hope you enjoy it.
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK!
Julie
KATE!! Can't wait for you to read it either, my friend, and see what you think!
ReplyDeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Julie
I would so love to win a copy of one of Julie's books! Thanks for the review and giveaway. d[dot]brookmyer[at]yahoo[dot]com
ReplyDeleteHey, DONNA, trust me -- I would "love" for you to win a copy, too, so GOOD LUCK in the draw, my friend.
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I would so love to win a copy of one of Julie's books! Thanks for the review and giveaway. d[dot]brookmyer[at]yahoo[dot]com
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments, Donna - I'd love for you to have a copy of 'Love Everlasting' or 'Isle of Hope', they're both beautiful stories I think you will love!! Thanks for your comments and don't forget to get your FREE copy of 'A Glimmer of Hope' and the half-price sale on 'Isle of Hope'.
DeleteHi Bonnie (and Julie)! I'm so excited to read this book; thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeletesclauche(at)gmail(dot)com
Hey, SARAH, I am excited for you to read it, too, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!
DeleteHugs,
Julie
So glad you stopped by and commented, Sarah - love your enthusiasm, I know you're going to love 'Love Everlasting'!! Thank you!!
DeleteBonnie, this series is another one that gives me dopamine-addled reader euphoria. Not only when I read a full book, but when I read just the book blurb and reviews. In fact, my heart's beating a little bit faster while typing this comment. I loved the first book in this series so much that I purchased the paperback just to have it displayed in a glass-enclosed lighted book-case as you first walk into my home. Kidding, but I did feel the need to buy the paperback for my keeper shelf. tlhcoupon(at)hotmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteLOL, TERRILL ... I will admit I was a wee bit worried when I read about the glass-enclosed lighted book-case, but I am SO honored you felt the need to purchase the paperback for your keeper shelf, so THANK YOU!!:)
DeleteI will say that Love Everlasting is not as long as IOH (520 pages vs. 313) or as deep spiritually, but it is a nice continuation of this series, so I hope you enjoy it too.
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
You always put a smile on my face, Terrill, LOL - love your comments!! Yes, everything Julie writes puts me in that reader euphoria too - 'Isle of Hope' touched me so deeply, I'm happy to hear you loved it too. I have both e-book and paperback copies of each of Julie's books - I'm prepared any time I need a 'Julie fix", LOL!! I think you will love 'Love Everlasting' also, and you did get your free e-book of 'A Glimmer of Hope', didn't you?? Enjoy!!
DeleteI would love a copy of Love Everlasting! :D Julie Lessman's books just keep getting better and better and her characters just become fantastic friends I want to cheer for while I get to know them. I look forward to my introduction to Sam and Shannon. :)
ReplyDeleteAw, NICOLE, what a lovely thing to say, my friend -- THANK YOU!! Here's hoping I can send you a winning copy of LE!!
DeleteHugs and GOOD LUCK!
Julie
Hi, Nicole!! I've formed that 'fantastic friendship' you speak of with the characters in each of Julie's books also - they're so realistic and "down-to-earth" readers feel they know them personally. They've found special places in my heart - to stay. I think you will love Shannon and Sam!! Thanks for your beautiful comments!!
DeleteNICOLE - please leave your email address, for contact purposes, should you be our winner. Thank you so much!!
DeleteThanks Bonnie for this review. And from my special friend who was the first person ever, to tell me she loved my name. Bless her sweet heart. Would love to win your book. Maxie > mac262(at)me(dot)com <
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