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Porter Family #3
A Love Like Ours
Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.
When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.
Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?
When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.
Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
Becky Wade
23 books3,479 followersBecky’s a California native who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and settled in Dallas with their three children and one Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. She loves penning sweet contemporary romances laced with sizzling chemistry, mystery, faith, banter, and humor. Her thirteen novels and five novellas have been recognized with a Carol Award, INSPY awards, and a spot in the Christy Award Hall of Fame.
When she’s not at her computer, you’ll find her power-walking her neighborhood, driving carpool, eating chocolate, doing yoga, or admiring her dog.
Connect with Becky via her website at BeckyWade.com, on Facebook as Author Becky Wade and on Instagram as BeckyWadeWriter.
When she’s not at her computer, you’ll find her power-walking her neighborhood, driving carpool, eating chocolate, doing yoga, or admiring her dog.
Connect with Becky via her website at BeckyWade.com, on Facebook as Author Becky Wade and on Instagram as BeckyWadeWriter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 443 reviews
May 24, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
The sexual content of this book shocked me. There were several mentions of "libido" and "testosterone" as well as sexual longing and dozens of inner heat reactions to a physical attraction to a member of the opposite sex. This book was heavily sensual throughout, which kept a sexual tension thick on nearly every page. This type of material is too edgy for solid Christian fiction.
The Lord's name was taken in vain at least twice. In addition, there were at minimum five expletives or expletive phrases.
There was a scene in which a child was unbuckled and changing clothes in the backseat while his mom was driving across town. This is a safety hazard that is unlikely to happen in today's society without CPS getting involved or a deadly wreck happening, yet neither of those situations happened in the wake of this scene.
One reason I was looking forward to reading this book was the horse trainer aspect, but that fell way short of my expectations. For the first seventy-five percent of the book, the horse trainer merely stood at the railing while his horses were being worked out. He hardly had anything to do with the horses through all that time. Yet in the back fourth of the novel, it was gushed about how much he loved and was active with his horses. Actions shout while words whisper, and I didn't see enough interaction between the man and his animals.
The lead female would flip-flop between sexual attraction to the lead male to extreme mothering of him. This was awkward for me to read for two reasons. The first is covered earlier in this review (sexual content); the second is that a romantic relationship does not often result in one party mothering the other. That does not seem like romance to me. Rather, it appears to be quite controlling.
Speaking of which, the lead male was pretty controlling of the lead female, which led me to root against them getting together. He was very often a jerk to her, which made me wonder why she still cared about pursuing him. Maybe it's the naivete of her young age. In my perspective, if a guy's a complete jerk on more than one occasion with me (because a one-time thing could be chalked up to having a bad day), I'm not hoping to date and/or marry the guy; I'm running for the hills. If a guy's a jerk before you're dating him, that type of behavior will get worse once you are dating, even worse when you're married, and beyond worse once kids get involved. I'm not even sure how the lead female could gush about his manners late in the book since he was pretty impolite to her more than anything else throughout ninety percent of the book.
My favorite thing about this book was the uniqueness of the dates that were included in the story. Some of them were things I would not have thought about adding into a book to liven things up a bit. This was the most interesting part of this story to me.
I also liked Zoe. She was a character I came to count on for relieving the sexual tension and providing a little comedy to the scenes she was in. I really looked forward to her scenes a lot throughout.
The aspect of special needs came through beautifully. This was another favorite aspect of the story for me.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, authors, and sites like Netgalley, Litfuse Publicity Group, and Blogging for Books. They do not require me to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The sexual content of this book shocked me. There were several mentions of "libido" and "testosterone" as well as sexual longing and dozens of inner heat reactions to a physical attraction to a member of the opposite sex. This book was heavily sensual throughout, which kept a sexual tension thick on nearly every page. This type of material is too edgy for solid Christian fiction.
The Lord's name was taken in vain at least twice. In addition, there were at minimum five expletives or expletive phrases.
There was a scene in which a child was unbuckled and changing clothes in the backseat while his mom was driving across town. This is a safety hazard that is unlikely to happen in today's society without CPS getting involved or a deadly wreck happening, yet neither of those situations happened in the wake of this scene.
One reason I was looking forward to reading this book was the horse trainer aspect, but that fell way short of my expectations. For the first seventy-five percent of the book, the horse trainer merely stood at the railing while his horses were being worked out. He hardly had anything to do with the horses through all that time. Yet in the back fourth of the novel, it was gushed about how much he loved and was active with his horses. Actions shout while words whisper, and I didn't see enough interaction between the man and his animals.
The lead female would flip-flop between sexual attraction to the lead male to extreme mothering of him. This was awkward for me to read for two reasons. The first is covered earlier in this review (sexual content); the second is that a romantic relationship does not often result in one party mothering the other. That does not seem like romance to me. Rather, it appears to be quite controlling.
Speaking of which, the lead male was pretty controlling of the lead female, which led me to root against them getting together. He was very often a jerk to her, which made me wonder why she still cared about pursuing him. Maybe it's the naivete of her young age. In my perspective, if a guy's a complete jerk on more than one occasion with me (because a one-time thing could be chalked up to having a bad day), I'm not hoping to date and/or marry the guy; I'm running for the hills. If a guy's a jerk before you're dating him, that type of behavior will get worse once you are dating, even worse when you're married, and beyond worse once kids get involved. I'm not even sure how the lead female could gush about his manners late in the book since he was pretty impolite to her more than anything else throughout ninety percent of the book.
My favorite thing about this book was the uniqueness of the dates that were included in the story. Some of them were things I would not have thought about adding into a book to liven things up a bit. This was the most interesting part of this story to me.
I also liked Zoe. She was a character I came to count on for relieving the sexual tension and providing a little comedy to the scenes she was in. I really looked forward to her scenes a lot throughout.
The aspect of special needs came through beautifully. This was another favorite aspect of the story for me.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, authors, and sites like Netgalley, Litfuse Publicity Group, and Blogging for Books. They do not require me to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
June 19, 2016
Goodness, Jake Porter. It's no wonder Lyndie's madly in love with you.
Becky Wade is exceptionally talented when it comes to 1.) writing a worthwhile clean contemporary romance, 2.) introducing readers to very true-to-life, flawed, yet appealing characters, and 3.) making you sigh with her descriptions of the feelings of these characters.
Becky Wade is exceptionally talented when it comes to 1.) writing a worthwhile clean contemporary romance, 2.) introducing readers to very true-to-life, flawed, yet appealing characters, and 3.) making you sigh with her descriptions of the feelings of these characters.
September 14, 2018
Becky Wade definitely knows how to write a good romance! I loved seeing Jake, a struggling veteran, slowly (though unwillingly) open up to life when Lyndie came along. It was so sweet and moving. Loved it!
May 13, 2018
About this book:
“Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.
When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.
Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Porter Family” series. (I have not read Book #1, but I have read and reviewed number two, “Meant to Be Mine”.)
Spiritual Content- Jeremiah 29:11 at the end; Prayers; Talks about God & trusting Him; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Bible reading & A few Scriptures are quoted; Mentions of Church going; Witnessing to Jake; Jake lost his faith *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*.
*Note: a mention of “very zen people”; a “you look like hell.” and a “give him hell”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘bull’, a ‘crap’, a ‘drat’, a ‘geez’, a ‘heck’, a ‘idiot’, a ‘sheesh’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘oh my gosh’s, two ‘screwed up’s, two ‘shoot’s, six forms of ‘stupid’; Jake swears inwardly (said, but not written); Jake has nightmares from when he was a Marine in Iraq and people dying (semi-detailed); Injured animals and hurt people (semi-detailed); Mentions of drinking; Jake compares Lyndie’s eye color to Jack Daniels; Mentions of nightclubs and bars.
Sexual Content- two Barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three Semi-detailed kisses, two Detailed kisses and two Very-detailed kisses (one which almost leads to the bedroom); Palm/Head kisses; Wanting to kiss and staring at lips; A code for wanting to kiss; Married couples kiss; Touches, Nearness & Warmth (semi-detailed to detailed); Noticing & Staring (semi-detailed); Lyndie wishes (once) that Jake would take off his shirt so she could check out his body; Amber is stunned over Ty’s good looks every time she sees him (even though he’s married); two ‘babe’s; Men are called delicious and gorgeous; A mention of a woman’s figures; Mentions of tight clothes; Noticing & imaging clothes and skin (but it’s cut off before anything really sexual); Mentions of testosterone; Many mentions of dating; Amber is a bit desperate for a date; Mentions of single/unwed mothers; Amber says she knows a lot about sexual attraction and had boyfriend after boyfriend when she was younger (which eventually causes her to end up pregnant); A mention of not wanting to “sleep with people just for the heck of it.”; In Jake’s P.O.V. “Since the Marines, he’d lived a simple life. He’d ruthlessly avoided alcohol and drugs and s*x, knowing that he wasn’t strong enough to deal with any of them.” A mention of purity and a man who wants to hold his wife’s hand for the first time on their wedding night (not Jake); Lyndie says “More honestly she wanted to kiss him, marry him, and take him to bed.”; Love, trying not to fall in love, falling in love & the emotions. (2x); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*
-Lyndie James
-Jake Porter
P.O.V. switches between them, Amber & Will
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- One Star (and a half)
Hmmm. Interesting. Sadly, I disliked more than I liked. :( I liked Lyndie’s faith, Mollie and I’m now really looking forward to reading Dru’s story. But all the Sexual Content made the ratings way lower and not appropriate for teen girls under 16. I wasn’t a big fan of Amber (but I probably would have liked her more had I read, book #1 in this series, where she’s introduced.) which added even more Sexual Content. :(
All that said, I most likely will try the author’s next book which I’m hoping is Dru’s story. Because girls with guns? Oh yes. ;)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this review.
“Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.
When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.
Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Porter Family” series. (I have not read Book #1, but I have read and reviewed number two, “Meant to Be Mine”.)
Spiritual Content- Jeremiah 29:11 at the end; Prayers; Talks about God & trusting Him; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Bible reading & A few Scriptures are quoted; Mentions of Church going; Witnessing to Jake; Jake lost his faith *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*.
*Note: a mention of “very zen people”; a “you look like hell.” and a “give him hell”.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘bull’, a ‘crap’, a ‘drat’, a ‘geez’, a ‘heck’, a ‘idiot’, a ‘sheesh’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘oh my gosh’s, two ‘screwed up’s, two ‘shoot’s, six forms of ‘stupid’; Jake swears inwardly (said, but not written); Jake has nightmares from when he was a Marine in Iraq and people dying (semi-detailed); Injured animals and hurt people (semi-detailed); Mentions of drinking; Jake compares Lyndie’s eye color to Jack Daniels; Mentions of nightclubs and bars.
Sexual Content- two Barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three Semi-detailed kisses, two Detailed kisses and two Very-detailed kisses (one which almost leads to the bedroom); Palm/Head kisses; Wanting to kiss and staring at lips; A code for wanting to kiss; Married couples kiss; Touches, Nearness & Warmth (semi-detailed to detailed); Noticing & Staring (semi-detailed); Lyndie wishes (once) that Jake would take off his shirt so she could check out his body; Amber is stunned over Ty’s good looks every time she sees him (even though he’s married); two ‘babe’s; Men are called delicious and gorgeous; A mention of a woman’s figures; Mentions of tight clothes; Noticing & imaging clothes and skin (but it’s cut off before anything really sexual); Mentions of testosterone; Many mentions of dating; Amber is a bit desperate for a date; Mentions of single/unwed mothers; Amber says she knows a lot about sexual attraction and had boyfriend after boyfriend when she was younger (which eventually causes her to end up pregnant); A mention of not wanting to “sleep with people just for the heck of it.”; In Jake’s P.O.V. “Since the Marines, he’d lived a simple life. He’d ruthlessly avoided alcohol and drugs and s*x, knowing that he wasn’t strong enough to deal with any of them.” A mention of purity and a man who wants to hold his wife’s hand for the first time on their wedding night (not Jake); Lyndie says “More honestly she wanted to kiss him, marry him, and take him to bed.”; Love, trying not to fall in love, falling in love & the emotions. (2x); *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*
-Lyndie James
-Jake Porter
P.O.V. switches between them, Amber & Will
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- One Star (and a half)
Hmmm. Interesting. Sadly, I disliked more than I liked. :( I liked Lyndie’s faith, Mollie and I’m now really looking forward to reading Dru’s story. But all the Sexual Content made the ratings way lower and not appropriate for teen girls under 16. I wasn’t a big fan of Amber (but I probably would have liked her more had I read, book #1 in this series, where she’s introduced.) which added even more Sexual Content. :(
All that said, I most likely will try the author’s next book which I’m hoping is Dru’s story. Because girls with guns? Oh yes. ;)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this review.
February 15, 2017
Ok, so a couple things happen after I read a book in the Porter Family series:
1. I have the urge to move Texas.
2. I want to marry a cowboy .
3. I want to own a horse ranch. :-)
I just love this whole series so far, it's been great getting a closer look at each member of the Porter family. I was always interested on how Becky Wade would write Jake and Lyndie's story. Since Jake kind of withdrew from everyone because of the tragedies he faced serving a marine, leaving scars inside and out.
I really liked Lyndie so much! the woman was like sunshine. I love the fact that her and Jake were childhood best friends, so she wasn't intimidated by Jake sometimes gruff manner. This was not only a love story between the characters but it was also a awesome story of love between the characters and God. How God relentlessly pursues and loves us, and is with us in the midst of tragedy, to help and to heal. This was a excellent read I definitely recommend it.
1. I have the urge to move Texas.
2. I want to marry a cowboy .
3. I want to own a horse ranch. :-)
I just love this whole series so far, it's been great getting a closer look at each member of the Porter family. I was always interested on how Becky Wade would write Jake and Lyndie's story. Since Jake kind of withdrew from everyone because of the tragedies he faced serving a marine, leaving scars inside and out.
I really liked Lyndie so much! the woman was like sunshine. I love the fact that her and Jake were childhood best friends, so she wasn't intimidated by Jake sometimes gruff manner. This was not only a love story between the characters but it was also a awesome story of love between the characters and God. How God relentlessly pursues and loves us, and is with us in the midst of tragedy, to help and to heal. This was a excellent read I definitely recommend it.
February 4, 2017
Beautiful! I totally enjoyed every page of this book! Every book Becky writes is better than the last. That is saying a lot because I have loved everyone! She is truly blessed with a gift for writing. She brought Jake and Lyndie's story to life. The characters seem SO REAL! So much depth and emotion. The romance is passionate and sweet. I felt the pain and struggle and the heartache. I laughed out loud more than once! It's so much fun following the Porter family through this series. I hated for this story to end but I am looking forward to the next book in The Porter Family series. If you have not read one of Becky Wade's books yet you're missing out. I recommend A Love Like Ours to anyone who likes to read! You will LOVE it!
July 1, 2015
Love Becky's books and this was no exception!
December 27, 2015
4.5 stars.
I've been wanting to read this book for awhile and was thrilled when my library bought the ebook at my request. Lyndie and Jake are a perfect couple–she's patient and loving; he's damaged and having a hard time with survivor's guilt from his time in the Marines. I loved the details about horse training and racing, since I've always loved horses and wish I could spend time around some. And it was great to have appearances from Bo, Meg, Ty, Celia, and even Amber from the first book.
Content: a few kisses, drinking, and betting on horse races.
I've been wanting to read this book for awhile and was thrilled when my library bought the ebook at my request. Lyndie and Jake are a perfect couple–she's patient and loving; he's damaged and having a hard time with survivor's guilt from his time in the Marines. I loved the details about horse training and racing, since I've always loved horses and wish I could spend time around some. And it was great to have appearances from Bo, Meg, Ty, Celia, and even Amber from the first book.
Content: a few kisses, drinking, and betting on horse races.
June 20, 2018
I'm kinda torn over a rating...RTC.
// updated
I waffled back and forth for a bit on my rating for this one.
On many points, I loved the book—so much. It was amazing and heartrending and oh-so good. I mean, c'mon, Jake is a broken Marine. (Need I say more?!)
I spent most of the book wanting to give it 5 stars—but wrinkled my nose at the suggestive lines that made me want to sling it across the room. (Metaphorically, of course, as I was reading on my iPad... *wink*)
So yes, there was some suggestive material, but honestly, I could've stomached a thing or two from the main couple. But the side-plot/secondary romance going on in this one? UM WHAT.
I thought I would enjoy it since I liked Amber and Will so much previously. (The Proposal, book 3.5 of the series.) But in this book? No. Just no. The way Amber literally chased him, thought up ways to coincidentally plant herself in his path, and swooned over his 'bedroom eyes' (I don't know what that even means, and I don't think I WANT to know...) drove me 103% insane.
So yeah... 5 stars for Jake and Lyndie and Molly and the Porter family. 2 stars for Amber and Will. 4/4.5 stars overall.
// updated
I waffled back and forth for a bit on my rating for this one.
On many points, I loved the book—so much. It was amazing and heartrending and oh-so good. I mean, c'mon, Jake is a broken Marine. (Need I say more?!)
I spent most of the book wanting to give it 5 stars—but wrinkled my nose at the suggestive lines that made me want to sling it across the room. (Metaphorically, of course, as I was reading on my iPad... *wink*)
So yes, there was some suggestive material, but honestly, I could've stomached a thing or two from the main couple. But the side-plot/secondary romance going on in this one? UM WHAT.
I thought I would enjoy it since I liked Amber and Will so much previously. (The Proposal, book 3.5 of the series.) But in this book? No. Just no. The way Amber literally chased him, thought up ways to coincidentally plant herself in his path, and swooned over his 'bedroom eyes' (I don't know what that even means, and I don't think I WANT to know...) drove me 103% insane.
So yeah... 5 stars for Jake and Lyndie and Molly and the Porter family. 2 stars for Amber and Will. 4/4.5 stars overall.
May 22, 2015
This book is the perfect romance. A wounded hero. A heroine who just wants to help him. Horse racing. The heat of love. Horses. A great cast of secondary characters. Did I mention horses? :-)
This is a book that I adored. Lyndie just wants to help her childhood friend -- not an easy task when he's deeply wounded by what he experienced as a Marine in Iraq. He begrudgingly hires her to exercise his thoroughbreds. Neither knows what to expect of the other, but Lyndie believes Jake can be more than he currently is. The pages of the story wander through the ins and outs, ups and downs of two people learning to see each other as they are. The question is whether fear will keep them apart. Fear and the belief that they aren't worthy of each other. At the same time, Lyndie struggles to not lose her heart to a man separated from God by the past's events.
These characters swept into my world and I didn't want to leave theirs. This romance is going on my keeper shelf. It's that good!
This is a book that I adored. Lyndie just wants to help her childhood friend -- not an easy task when he's deeply wounded by what he experienced as a Marine in Iraq. He begrudgingly hires her to exercise his thoroughbreds. Neither knows what to expect of the other, but Lyndie believes Jake can be more than he currently is. The pages of the story wander through the ins and outs, ups and downs of two people learning to see each other as they are. The question is whether fear will keep them apart. Fear and the belief that they aren't worthy of each other. At the same time, Lyndie struggles to not lose her heart to a man separated from God by the past's events.
These characters swept into my world and I didn't want to leave theirs. This romance is going on my keeper shelf. It's that good!
December 24, 2015
I really liked this quote:
Loving someone wasnt about perfection. It was about coming to accept every part of them, their good qualities, and their weaknesses and flaws- looking on everything they were and loving it all.
Although this wasn't my favorite book of the Porter brothers, it was still a great read. It didn't make me laugh as much, but that was because this book really covered some difficult life situations. While some people consider Wade's books to be slightly "edgy," I find her writing to be extremely strong in showing how we all need Christ. I feel like, although we haven't all experienced PTSD, we all have, at some point, felt worthless, and that we don't deserve to have it so "good." I could just feel the warmth oozing off the pages, when Jake finally began to hand his burdens over to Christ.
Loving someone wasnt about perfection. It was about coming to accept every part of them, their good qualities, and their weaknesses and flaws- looking on everything they were and loving it all.
Although this wasn't my favorite book of the Porter brothers, it was still a great read. It didn't make me laugh as much, but that was because this book really covered some difficult life situations. While some people consider Wade's books to be slightly "edgy," I find her writing to be extremely strong in showing how we all need Christ. I feel like, although we haven't all experienced PTSD, we all have, at some point, felt worthless, and that we don't deserve to have it so "good." I could just feel the warmth oozing off the pages, when Jake finally began to hand his burdens over to Christ.
January 1, 2023
Tall, dark and brooding, Jake Porter is a study in contrasts. Admirable, accomplished and handsome on the outside, but so miserable, guilt-ridden and utterly broken on the inside that he can hardly manage any measurable human contact. Enter Lyndie James; beautiful, imaginative, free-spirited Lyndie; Jake's childhood friend who has dared to re-enter his life twenty years after exiting. Lyndie arrives back in Texas with her family after living in California for years; padding her resume as a horse trainer with the best stables in the area, and she eagerly seeks employment at Whispering Creek Ranch; exercising Jake's magnificent thoroughbreds and continuing her career as a writer and illustrator of children's books.
Lyndie takes Jake's breath away; his first reaction is to shove her into the dark recesses of his mind and heart where she belongs, but he cannot ignore her talent on a horse and reluctantly agrees to hire her. When Lyndie decides that God has placed her in a position to not only motivate Jake's skittish stallion Silver Leaf to race, but to infiltrate Jake's thick post traumatic stress disorder barriers, the two are poised for an adventure that could have disastrous results in the short term. Or just perhaps, a love like theirs, could last a lifetime, with the miracle of God's faithfulness.
Becky Wade's third installment in the Porter family series is both thought provoking and heart-breaking, but utterly worth the trail of tears that these two endearing characters must face. And . . .. there is a bonus feature . . . Amber Richardson . . . has her second chance at love.
Lyndie takes Jake's breath away; his first reaction is to shove her into the dark recesses of his mind and heart where she belongs, but he cannot ignore her talent on a horse and reluctantly agrees to hire her. When Lyndie decides that God has placed her in a position to not only motivate Jake's skittish stallion Silver Leaf to race, but to infiltrate Jake's thick post traumatic stress disorder barriers, the two are poised for an adventure that could have disastrous results in the short term. Or just perhaps, a love like theirs, could last a lifetime, with the miracle of God's faithfulness.
Becky Wade's third installment in the Porter family series is both thought provoking and heart-breaking, but utterly worth the trail of tears that these two endearing characters must face. And . . .. there is a bonus feature . . . Amber Richardson . . . has her second chance at love.
April 22, 2015
I love horses, but don't know a lot about them or about racing them. I was completely fascinated with that aspect of this story. Jake is a horse trainer, dealing with PTSD from his service with the Marines. Lyndie is a childhood friend who has returned and is eager to work for him as an exerciser. I found myself caught up in the world of racing and found myself cheering their horses on, especially Silver Leaf.
Mr. Tall, Dark, and Brooding...uh, I mean, Jake, is complex. His voice is full of despair and guilt. He struggles and feels broken, yet isn't willing to allow anyone to help him. On the other hand, Lyndie's voice reflects her personality well. She's bright, cheerful, and hopeful. I loved the contrasts and the way Lyndie forges her way into Jake's life. The author did a fantastic job of portraying their personalities through their words, thoughts, and actions.
I loved the side story of Lyndie's neighbor, Amber. Amber is fearless when it comes to dating, unlike Lyndie, and decides that the two of them will go on three dates in three months. Their experiences are humorous and fun.
Tackling a serious issue that many in our military face is no easy feat, but Ms. Wade does it well. The story isn't too heavy, as it's balanced with romance, fun, family, horses, and religion. I love reading about this Porter Family and can't wait for more!
Content: mild language; moderate violence (mainly flashbacks to war experiences); mild romance; moderate religious elements (Christian). Clean for an adult reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Mr. Tall, Dark, and Brooding...uh, I mean, Jake, is complex. His voice is full of despair and guilt. He struggles and feels broken, yet isn't willing to allow anyone to help him. On the other hand, Lyndie's voice reflects her personality well. She's bright, cheerful, and hopeful. I loved the contrasts and the way Lyndie forges her way into Jake's life. The author did a fantastic job of portraying their personalities through their words, thoughts, and actions.
I loved the side story of Lyndie's neighbor, Amber. Amber is fearless when it comes to dating, unlike Lyndie, and decides that the two of them will go on three dates in three months. Their experiences are humorous and fun.
Tackling a serious issue that many in our military face is no easy feat, but Ms. Wade does it well. The story isn't too heavy, as it's balanced with romance, fun, family, horses, and religion. I love reading about this Porter Family and can't wait for more!
Content: mild language; moderate violence (mainly flashbacks to war experiences); mild romance; moderate religious elements (Christian). Clean for an adult reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
March 4, 2019
Christian romance fail. MC is Mary Sue and I can't take another page. Hero is PTSD Iraq war vet, and she is on a mission to save him with Jesus. Her handicapped sister and counsellor/sunshine mother help with the Jesus chats. I know...I'm totally mean & awful, right?
I do like the kind of Christian romance where God and faith are incorporated into the story. Why are there so many non-stories that get all these glowing reviews just because they have "Jesus is the answer" as the main theme? This story has absolutely no plot! I got to chapter 20 out of 27 and realized that I don't care about any of the characters. Okay, I sort of care about Amber in the side story, but not enough to wade through any more Hallelujah business.
Please, can we have some higher standards for Christian fiction? Wholesome themes do not automatically = a good story.
I do like the kind of Christian romance where God and faith are incorporated into the story. Why are there so many non-stories that get all these glowing reviews just because they have "Jesus is the answer" as the main theme? This story has absolutely no plot! I got to chapter 20 out of 27 and realized that I don't care about any of the characters. Okay, I sort of care about Amber in the side story, but not enough to wade through any more Hallelujah business.
Please, can we have some higher standards for Christian fiction? Wholesome themes do not automatically = a good story.
February 14, 2015
The perfect indulgence for Valentine's Day! Being a horse lover for as long as I can remember, I had high hopes for this book, and Becky Wade not only did NOT disappoint, but served up her best book yet! Reuniting the Porter siblings with friends both old and new, Wade seamlessly blends threads of courage, sacrifice, hope, and family loyalty together with a double-dose of romance and a dash of "Seabiscuit"-style action to create a swoonworthy story that will leave you both cheering and weeping for joy. An absolute must read!!!!
April 22, 2015
Becky Wade gives us the third book in her Porter family series. This one features Jake Porter, former Marine who suffers from PTSD. Suffers so much from it that it seriously hinders his life.
Lyndie James is back in Holley, Texas after moving from there to California as a preteen. She and Jake had been best friends until she moved away. Jake hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds against his better judgement.
Will Lyndie's optimism and happy spirit help Jake come out of the darkness he's been living in? Will Jake allow God back into his heart?
Becky Wade has created some very real characters in this book. She always does, though. Emotions run high, their depths seriously stretched. I love it when I can read a book and feel how the characters feel. I do with Becky's books.
And what I love most about her books is her ability to preach Christ. Her characters are flawed and in need of God's grace and she is not afraid to lead them there. When you pick up a Christian fiction book written by Becky Wade, you get Christ. You get him in such a way that your own spirit bears witness with hers. She believes what she writes. Of that I'm sure.
There were scenes in this book that tore at my heart, others filled my heart with joy and still others that had me weeping with happiness. God is good! No matter what. No matter how bad we hurt. No matter how hard life gets. God is good. ALL the time!
*I was provided with a free copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
Lyndie James is back in Holley, Texas after moving from there to California as a preteen. She and Jake had been best friends until she moved away. Jake hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds against his better judgement.
Will Lyndie's optimism and happy spirit help Jake come out of the darkness he's been living in? Will Jake allow God back into his heart?
Becky Wade has created some very real characters in this book. She always does, though. Emotions run high, their depths seriously stretched. I love it when I can read a book and feel how the characters feel. I do with Becky's books.
And what I love most about her books is her ability to preach Christ. Her characters are flawed and in need of God's grace and she is not afraid to lead them there. When you pick up a Christian fiction book written by Becky Wade, you get Christ. You get him in such a way that your own spirit bears witness with hers. She believes what she writes. Of that I'm sure.
There were scenes in this book that tore at my heart, others filled my heart with joy and still others that had me weeping with happiness. God is good! No matter what. No matter how bad we hurt. No matter how hard life gets. God is good. ALL the time!
*I was provided with a free copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
May 26, 2015
I absolutely LOVED this story! In my opinion, this is Becky's best book yet.
This author has a knack for creating characters that are so darn likable that they leap off the page and into your heart. Lyndie is such a great character. I'm kinda disappointed that I can't swing by her apartment and see her art or have one of her coffee creations. For me, she stole the whole book.
Lyndie and Jake's friendship-turning-to-romance was so sweet and fun to read. I kept waiting for the point that I would lose interest in the story and have to push myself to finish it, but I never found it.
I'm sure Jake's character was a hard one to write, but Becky dealt with his PTSD and brokenness with skillful technique. If you aren't on fire for this handsome, wounded warrior by the end of the book... Your wood's wet! ;)
Another aspect of this book that I loved was Amber and Will's romance. They are perfect for each other and their side-story is the perfect balance to some of the darker emotional moments of the book.
All in all, this is an excellent read that I highly recommend to anyone who loves a good love story. 5 stars!
(I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)
This author has a knack for creating characters that are so darn likable that they leap off the page and into your heart. Lyndie is such a great character. I'm kinda disappointed that I can't swing by her apartment and see her art or have one of her coffee creations. For me, she stole the whole book.
Lyndie and Jake's friendship-turning-to-romance was so sweet and fun to read. I kept waiting for the point that I would lose interest in the story and have to push myself to finish it, but I never found it.
I'm sure Jake's character was a hard one to write, but Becky dealt with his PTSD and brokenness with skillful technique. If you aren't on fire for this handsome, wounded warrior by the end of the book... Your wood's wet! ;)
Another aspect of this book that I loved was Amber and Will's romance. They are perfect for each other and their side-story is the perfect balance to some of the darker emotional moments of the book.
All in all, this is an excellent read that I highly recommend to anyone who loves a good love story. 5 stars!
(I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)
July 5, 2022
This was a beautiful, emotional story and I really enjoyed it! I loved these characters. My favorite trope is childhood friends-to-lovers and this one was so sweet. Lyndie and Jake were a beautiful couple, and I loved reading their story. I loved Jake’s character. He is one of those characters you just want to hug and protect at all cost. He’s broken and wounded but I loved watching his journey to healing.❤️ I loved Lyndie’s character too! I admired how kind and compassionate she was, and how she sought the Lord throughout her struggles.
The plot of this book has a lot to do with racing horses, something I haven’t read about often. It reminded me of the tv show Heartland which was really fun!
The faith content was great too! The redemption story was so good. One scene in particular was moving.
Overall, this book was great! The romance was really sweet and the faith content was great. There were moments I laughed and moments I was on the verge of tearing up. I enjoyed it a lot!
The plot of this book has a lot to do with racing horses, something I haven’t read about often. It reminded me of the tv show Heartland which was really fun!
The faith content was great too! The redemption story was so good. One scene in particular was moving.
Overall, this book was great! The romance was really sweet and the faith content was great. There were moments I laughed and moments I was on the verge of tearing up. I enjoyed it a lot!
April 25, 2015
Caution: This book may cause sleep deprivation!
There are so many things I could say about this book! I could tell you how I loved every minute of it, or how the characters tumbled off the pages and straight into my heart, or how I wanted to cry for Jake, or how a year is way too long for me to wait for the next one . . . Many, many things I could say and I probably will end up saying before I’m finished. In case the 5 stars didn’t clue you in, I adored this book! After reading Becky’s very first book, A Stubborn Heart, I’ve been a huge fan. She has not disappointed me yet and I can’t see that she will until she stops writing.
Her writing as always, was wonderful! I was drawn in from the first page and often had to remind myself that I wasn’t in Holley, Texas. I love the descriptions that bring every scene to life. There are just enough to give a good basis, but not enough to overwhelm. The story never once lagged for me and I saw midnight more than once, wanting to find out what would happen next. I was scooping up the book at every opportunity and woe to anyone who interrupted me.
I adored the returning characters from previous books, especially Amber from Undeniably Yours. The Porter brothers have such distinct personalities that it was fun to have them all together again. I know Dru’s book will be next, so it was fun to get to meet her again, but it was also bittersweet, because hers will be the final book. I’m anxious to read it, but at the same time dreading it. I don’t want the series to end! I suppose it’s a good thing, then, that I’ll have around a year to accept the fact it will be ending.
Lyndie James was such a sweet heroine, but with a very stubborn streak, making her perfect for Jake. I fell in love with her at once! She and I are alike in many ways, though very different in just as many. She’s one of those characters that you know if they were real, they would make a wonderful friend. She challenged me more often that not, her unshakable faith in God showing me things in a different light. There are so many other things I’d love to say about her, but I’ll stop here, so I don’t give any spoilers.
Jake Porter is the kind of hero I just want to hug. Like Lyndie, my heart broke for him. There is so much pain shown on every page of his point of view. It shows Becky’s talent, that she is able to take such a difficult theme as Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder and bring it to life. Jake’s real-life pain is never glossed over, never softened in a way to give less impact or insult those who face it every day. There were a couple scenes that were uncomfortable for me, because they pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me take notice. My heart was breaking for Jake, for everyone who struggles with the disorder. I have such respect for them, now, if I didn’t before.
Jake also challenged me. He asks questions: real, heart-wrenching questions, about God, life, and living. Sometimes, they’re ones I’ve thought, but never voiced, others gave me a whole new perspective on things. I loved following his story, because there is hope. Throughout the story, he’s growing, changing, finding answers, asking new questions. I was encouraged so much through his journey.
The spiritual aspect of this book was fantastic! I generally don’t elaborate too much on this, but I have to at least a little bit here. Even though God isn’t mentioned on every page, He is there, woven throughout the story. I loved the discussions the characters had, the way Becky didn’t gloss over anything but led me on the journey with them. Trust is a huge part of it. Trusting God in the hard times. This is something that really hit home with me and a few times I had to just stop and think about some point or another. Mrs. James plays a large role in this part of the story and I really appreciated the fact that her faith stands the test of time. She is no stranger to heartache, making her the perfect person for Jake to confide in and I loved the wisdom she imparts not just to him, but to the reader as well.
There is literally nothing I didn’t like about this book. I have no nitpicking comments, nothing that bothered me. From the first page to the last, I loved it! The ending was wonderful, perfectly written to give us a “happily-ever-after,” but also show the reality that everything doesn’t become perfect because you’re in love. The romance was also excellent, with the main story, but also a side story coming into play, too. I adored the chemistry between them, which was almost palpable. It was also incredibly sweet and found myself smiling quite a bit.
I’ll stop here, because I could go on and on, but then no one would read it. One final thought, if you haven’t read any of Becky’s books yet, you are definitely missing out on some wonderful reading!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
There are so many things I could say about this book! I could tell you how I loved every minute of it, or how the characters tumbled off the pages and straight into my heart, or how I wanted to cry for Jake, or how a year is way too long for me to wait for the next one . . . Many, many things I could say and I probably will end up saying before I’m finished. In case the 5 stars didn’t clue you in, I adored this book! After reading Becky’s very first book, A Stubborn Heart, I’ve been a huge fan. She has not disappointed me yet and I can’t see that she will until she stops writing.
Her writing as always, was wonderful! I was drawn in from the first page and often had to remind myself that I wasn’t in Holley, Texas. I love the descriptions that bring every scene to life. There are just enough to give a good basis, but not enough to overwhelm. The story never once lagged for me and I saw midnight more than once, wanting to find out what would happen next. I was scooping up the book at every opportunity and woe to anyone who interrupted me.
I adored the returning characters from previous books, especially Amber from Undeniably Yours. The Porter brothers have such distinct personalities that it was fun to have them all together again. I know Dru’s book will be next, so it was fun to get to meet her again, but it was also bittersweet, because hers will be the final book. I’m anxious to read it, but at the same time dreading it. I don’t want the series to end! I suppose it’s a good thing, then, that I’ll have around a year to accept the fact it will be ending.
Lyndie James was such a sweet heroine, but with a very stubborn streak, making her perfect for Jake. I fell in love with her at once! She and I are alike in many ways, though very different in just as many. She’s one of those characters that you know if they were real, they would make a wonderful friend. She challenged me more often that not, her unshakable faith in God showing me things in a different light. There are so many other things I’d love to say about her, but I’ll stop here, so I don’t give any spoilers.
Jake Porter is the kind of hero I just want to hug. Like Lyndie, my heart broke for him. There is so much pain shown on every page of his point of view. It shows Becky’s talent, that she is able to take such a difficult theme as Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder and bring it to life. Jake’s real-life pain is never glossed over, never softened in a way to give less impact or insult those who face it every day. There were a couple scenes that were uncomfortable for me, because they pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me take notice. My heart was breaking for Jake, for everyone who struggles with the disorder. I have such respect for them, now, if I didn’t before.
Jake also challenged me. He asks questions: real, heart-wrenching questions, about God, life, and living. Sometimes, they’re ones I’ve thought, but never voiced, others gave me a whole new perspective on things. I loved following his story, because there is hope. Throughout the story, he’s growing, changing, finding answers, asking new questions. I was encouraged so much through his journey.
The spiritual aspect of this book was fantastic! I generally don’t elaborate too much on this, but I have to at least a little bit here. Even though God isn’t mentioned on every page, He is there, woven throughout the story. I loved the discussions the characters had, the way Becky didn’t gloss over anything but led me on the journey with them. Trust is a huge part of it. Trusting God in the hard times. This is something that really hit home with me and a few times I had to just stop and think about some point or another. Mrs. James plays a large role in this part of the story and I really appreciated the fact that her faith stands the test of time. She is no stranger to heartache, making her the perfect person for Jake to confide in and I loved the wisdom she imparts not just to him, but to the reader as well.
There is literally nothing I didn’t like about this book. I have no nitpicking comments, nothing that bothered me. From the first page to the last, I loved it! The ending was wonderful, perfectly written to give us a “happily-ever-after,” but also show the reality that everything doesn’t become perfect because you’re in love. The romance was also excellent, with the main story, but also a side story coming into play, too. I adored the chemistry between them, which was almost palpable. It was also incredibly sweet and found myself smiling quite a bit.
I’ll stop here, because I could go on and on, but then no one would read it. One final thought, if you haven’t read any of Becky’s books yet, you are definitely missing out on some wonderful reading!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 1, 2016
Full review to come! Sweet, uplifting story with believable characters and an endearing romance! I'm really enjoying Becky's books. :)
A Love like Ours is the second novel of Becky’s that I’ve read, and I certainly was not disappointed! Although I haven’t read the second book in the Porter family series (yet!), I didn’t have any trouble falling back in to their family and enjoying their dynamics. While I typically don’t associate many books with seasons, if ever there was a book that should be read in springtime, this one fits the bill - redemption, renewal and healing are found within these pages, and what better way to celebrate Spring than that?
Lyndia is such a unique character. Becky gave her several quirky yet natural qualities. She is an artist and children’s author, but is also a talented rider and has an innate ability to connect with horses. I loved her sweet spirit and creative imagination. I have always been OBSESSED with fairies, and the fact that Lyndie writes children's stories featuring fairies, princes and quests just made my heart happy. Jake, or “Tall, Dark and Brooding,” as Lyndie calls him, is exactly that - a brooding but hurting soul that doesn’t see an end to his emotional and mental pain. Suffering from PTSD and quick to withdraw when there is any risk involved, especially when it comes to Lyndie, Jake is a complex and empathetic character. For me, the portrayal of his PTSD felt very realistic and made what could have been a run of the mill romance into something a lot deeper and poignant. Lyndie’s sister is terminally ill, and her family’s faith and determination even in the face of numerous seizures and hospitalizations was really inspiring. Their interactions felt very realistic, and I really enjoyed getting to know Lyndie’s family.
The setting of the novel is also done very well. I don’t know much about horses at all, but was fully engaged in learning the inner workings of a horse farm. It was fun to get a firsthand look at the training and preparation that goes into racing Thoroughbreds. It was interesting how that aspect of the story added a lot of conflict between Lyndie and Jake, with Lyndie’s desire to be a jockey and Jake’s unhealthy worries over her safety creating friction and tension between them and the progression of their relationship.
Overall, this is a really enjoyable read. Though it at first appears to be a typical romance, the nature of challenges that Lyndie and Jake faced gave this story depth and poignancy. For its endearing romance, believable characters and strong redemptive thread, I can easily recommend A Love like Ours for fans of inspiration contemporary romance.
A Love like Ours is the second novel of Becky’s that I’ve read, and I certainly was not disappointed! Although I haven’t read the second book in the Porter family series (yet!), I didn’t have any trouble falling back in to their family and enjoying their dynamics. While I typically don’t associate many books with seasons, if ever there was a book that should be read in springtime, this one fits the bill - redemption, renewal and healing are found within these pages, and what better way to celebrate Spring than that?
Lyndia is such a unique character. Becky gave her several quirky yet natural qualities. She is an artist and children’s author, but is also a talented rider and has an innate ability to connect with horses. I loved her sweet spirit and creative imagination. I have always been OBSESSED with fairies, and the fact that Lyndie writes children's stories featuring fairies, princes and quests just made my heart happy. Jake, or “Tall, Dark and Brooding,” as Lyndie calls him, is exactly that - a brooding but hurting soul that doesn’t see an end to his emotional and mental pain. Suffering from PTSD and quick to withdraw when there is any risk involved, especially when it comes to Lyndie, Jake is a complex and empathetic character. For me, the portrayal of his PTSD felt very realistic and made what could have been a run of the mill romance into something a lot deeper and poignant. Lyndie’s sister is terminally ill, and her family’s faith and determination even in the face of numerous seizures and hospitalizations was really inspiring. Their interactions felt very realistic, and I really enjoyed getting to know Lyndie’s family.
The setting of the novel is also done very well. I don’t know much about horses at all, but was fully engaged in learning the inner workings of a horse farm. It was fun to get a firsthand look at the training and preparation that goes into racing Thoroughbreds. It was interesting how that aspect of the story added a lot of conflict between Lyndie and Jake, with Lyndie’s desire to be a jockey and Jake’s unhealthy worries over her safety creating friction and tension between them and the progression of their relationship.
Overall, this is a really enjoyable read. Though it at first appears to be a typical romance, the nature of challenges that Lyndie and Jake faced gave this story depth and poignancy. For its endearing romance, believable characters and strong redemptive thread, I can easily recommend A Love like Ours for fans of inspiration contemporary romance.
April 15, 2019
Awesome!
I haven't read any of Becky Wade's books before but this novel was totally AWESOME!!!
What drew me to this book was that the two main characters grew up as best friends and in my opinion that's one of the most interesting story plots because I believe that your spouse should be your best friend. I think that the author did a very good job of portraying friendship and romance in this book very well. I also thought that the hero's story might be interesting to read as well and I can truly say that this novel was a really heart warming story from the beginning to the end.
At first I didn't know if I would like reading this story because it did include horses into the storyline. Not that I hate horses or anything but I do prefer any books that I read do be different from the next. I just finished reading a book that included horses in the storyline before I read this one.
I can say that for this book I enjoyed the hero and heroine equally well. The heroine,Lyndie, was such a sweet and caring person. I also loved reading about her family and I liked how that added so much to the story instead of the novel only focusing on the two main characters.
What really drew me to this novel as well was the hero's story. He went through so much and I loved reading about his "tall and brooding" character. His background story and everything about him was so interesting and heart wrenching to read.
One downfall for me was that this novel included stories from the other characters from previous books and I do like to know about most of the characters that I read about. I was kinda left in the dark when it came to reading about the other characters included in the book. As soon as I can, I will be reading the other books in this series. :)
The romance was SO AWESOME!!! I don't want to ruin the how well done it was but if you love reading contemporary romance fiction then this is definitely the book for you! THAT'S ALL I'M GOING TO SAY!!
Overall, this was a wonderful,wonderful,wonderful read and I enjoyed myself immensely while reading this book. I'm so glad to have discovered a new contemporary fiction author who includes faith,love and family into her novel. I laughed and I cried which is something that doesn't happen often especially when it comes to contemporary fiction. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading a heartfelt story. (4 stars)
I haven't read any of Becky Wade's books before but this novel was totally AWESOME!!!
What drew me to this book was that the two main characters grew up as best friends and in my opinion that's one of the most interesting story plots because I believe that your spouse should be your best friend. I think that the author did a very good job of portraying friendship and romance in this book very well. I also thought that the hero's story might be interesting to read as well and I can truly say that this novel was a really heart warming story from the beginning to the end.
At first I didn't know if I would like reading this story because it did include horses into the storyline. Not that I hate horses or anything but I do prefer any books that I read do be different from the next. I just finished reading a book that included horses in the storyline before I read this one.
I can say that for this book I enjoyed the hero and heroine equally well. The heroine,Lyndie, was such a sweet and caring person. I also loved reading about her family and I liked how that added so much to the story instead of the novel only focusing on the two main characters.
What really drew me to this novel as well was the hero's story. He went through so much and I loved reading about his "tall and brooding" character. His background story and everything about him was so interesting and heart wrenching to read.
One downfall for me was that this novel included stories from the other characters from previous books and I do like to know about most of the characters that I read about. I was kinda left in the dark when it came to reading about the other characters included in the book. As soon as I can, I will be reading the other books in this series. :)
The romance was SO AWESOME!!! I don't want to ruin the how well done it was but if you love reading contemporary romance fiction then this is definitely the book for you! THAT'S ALL I'M GOING TO SAY!!
Overall, this was a wonderful,wonderful,wonderful read and I enjoyed myself immensely while reading this book. I'm so glad to have discovered a new contemporary fiction author who includes faith,love and family into her novel. I laughed and I cried which is something that doesn't happen often especially when it comes to contemporary fiction. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys reading a heartfelt story. (4 stars)
April 30, 2015
Review on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1HKBGtH
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
A Love Like Ours was another special read from Becky Wade. I loved the characters and finally reading Jake's story...which was such a sad, yet beautiful story.
I loved seeing the growth of the characters -- not just Jake, but Lyndie too. I also loved all the scenes with Ty and Celia (MC from Meant To Be Mine). Another enjoyable thing about A Love Like Ours was the Thoroughbred aspect. It was interesting to get this glimpse into the training and racing aspects.
All in all, a very enjoyable read. The scene at the end seemed to happen a little quickly, but the story was still very good and I can't wait to read the next Porter book. I recommend A Love Like Ours if you enjoy contemporary romance with inspirational elements. A great read!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
A Love Like Ours was another special read from Becky Wade. I loved the characters and finally reading Jake's story...which was such a sad, yet beautiful story.
I loved seeing the growth of the characters -- not just Jake, but Lyndie too. I also loved all the scenes with Ty and Celia (MC from Meant To Be Mine). Another enjoyable thing about A Love Like Ours was the Thoroughbred aspect. It was interesting to get this glimpse into the training and racing aspects.
All in all, a very enjoyable read. The scene at the end seemed to happen a little quickly, but the story was still very good and I can't wait to read the next Porter book. I recommend A Love Like Ours if you enjoy contemporary romance with inspirational elements. A great read!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
June 7, 2015
A Love Like Ours is the third book in the Porter Family Series. This was Jake's story. Jake is a marine with PTSD. I really liked how Becky didn't make PTSD seem all roses at any point in the story.
I enjoyed watching the romance blossom as the novel progressed. A couple of side characters added a lot to the story: Amber (that we met in Undeniably Yours) and Karen.
I look forward to the series continuing with Dru's story.
A Love Like Ours is recommended for fans of Contemporary Romance.
I enjoyed watching the romance blossom as the novel progressed. A couple of side characters added a lot to the story: Amber (that we met in Undeniably Yours) and Karen.
I look forward to the series continuing with Dru's story.
A Love Like Ours is recommended for fans of Contemporary Romance.
May 11, 2015
For the enjoyment and redemptive factors, I couldn't help but give A Love Like Ours 5 stars. Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://tinyurl.com/pk4n8bj
Becky Wade has an enjoyable writing style that is lyrical, romantic, heartwarming, with delightful elements of humor thrown in at just the right moment. I don't think I'll ever come across one of Becky's books that doesn't touch me in some way, but I found A Love Like Ours especially moving, even to the point of tears at times - and that's rare for me. The cover beautifully captures the essence of Jake and Lyndie's personalities, but there are hidden depths to this story, both spiritual and emotional. While their love story is the backbone of the novel, many other elements are cleverly woven throughout - PTSD, survivor's guilt, physical disabilities, trusting God when life makes no sense, the dignity and value of all life. A Love Like Ours is, in essence, a story about rediscovering hope that once was lost - and that's something that will speak to just about every reader.
This is Becky's first series, and while it must be somewhat difficult to keep up with and advance characters' stories, I have totally embraced the Porter family and Lyndie's as well in this story. Becky says on her website that she writes "about imperfect, flawed people who are nonetheless loved by a perfect God" - and that's what makes her stories easily connect with readers.
"Twelve-year-old Jake Porter never felt a hundred percent right unless Lyndie James was beside him."
A beautiful, rare relationship, that of soulmates, simply stated in these opening words. And one that eventually comes full circle, capturing this reader's heart and emotions in the process.
Rich characterization is one of this book's strengths, evidenced not only by Jake and Lyndie, but several secondary characters as well. Jake - affectionately described as "Tall, Dark, and Brooding" by Lyndie - is a Thoroughbred horse trainer, eight years removed from military service in Iraq, but carrying the invisible scars of PTSD. His social behavior reflects that - hidden walls to protect from feeling, disconnected from people, a disbelief in the goodness of God. Going into this book, I knew a good bit about PTSD on paper, but being privy to Jake's torturous thoughts and nightmares made it real. I was immediately drawn to Jake, understanding the reasons for his brusqueness, and he became one of my favorite characters of all time.
Lyndie is just as strongly drawn - compassionate, captivating, imaginative, determined and plain out adorable. She has a natural way with animals and I loved the way she was able to unlock the mystery of why the Thoroughbred, Silver Leaf, wouldn't run. But what drew me to Lyndie most was that, rather than allowing Jake to intimidate her, she desired to help and was determined that the powers of his dark world would not overtake him.
But the character who touched me most couldn't even see or hear , and that was Mollie, Lyndie's sister who had cerebral palsy. God works in mysterious ways, and while Becky is quick to point out that it is always God who heals, it was moving to see how He might have used this precious child at times - especially with her ability to draw Jake out and make him feel.
Also woven throughout are spiritual messages that I needed to hear - that loving someone is about acceptance of their weakness and flaws in addition to all that's good, and that we need to trust God with the things we can't control.
I don't know what Becky has planned next, but I certainly hope there will be a fourth book, because I have enjoyed reconnecting with the Porter family and am not ready to let them go - but then, will I ever?! However, I'm intrigued by the younger sister, Dru, and felt the stage was being set for her story. And there are some questions I'd love to see answered . . . For instance, will Bo and Meg ever be able to have a child? Does Silver Leaf go on to be a true champion? Do Amber and Will find happiness together?
I thoroughly enjoyed A Love Like Ours and hated to reach the final page. Highly recommended.
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Becky Wade has an enjoyable writing style that is lyrical, romantic, heartwarming, with delightful elements of humor thrown in at just the right moment. I don't think I'll ever come across one of Becky's books that doesn't touch me in some way, but I found A Love Like Ours especially moving, even to the point of tears at times - and that's rare for me. The cover beautifully captures the essence of Jake and Lyndie's personalities, but there are hidden depths to this story, both spiritual and emotional. While their love story is the backbone of the novel, many other elements are cleverly woven throughout - PTSD, survivor's guilt, physical disabilities, trusting God when life makes no sense, the dignity and value of all life. A Love Like Ours is, in essence, a story about rediscovering hope that once was lost - and that's something that will speak to just about every reader.
This is Becky's first series, and while it must be somewhat difficult to keep up with and advance characters' stories, I have totally embraced the Porter family and Lyndie's as well in this story. Becky says on her website that she writes "about imperfect, flawed people who are nonetheless loved by a perfect God" - and that's what makes her stories easily connect with readers.
"Twelve-year-old Jake Porter never felt a hundred percent right unless Lyndie James was beside him."
A beautiful, rare relationship, that of soulmates, simply stated in these opening words. And one that eventually comes full circle, capturing this reader's heart and emotions in the process.
Rich characterization is one of this book's strengths, evidenced not only by Jake and Lyndie, but several secondary characters as well. Jake - affectionately described as "Tall, Dark, and Brooding" by Lyndie - is a Thoroughbred horse trainer, eight years removed from military service in Iraq, but carrying the invisible scars of PTSD. His social behavior reflects that - hidden walls to protect from feeling, disconnected from people, a disbelief in the goodness of God. Going into this book, I knew a good bit about PTSD on paper, but being privy to Jake's torturous thoughts and nightmares made it real. I was immediately drawn to Jake, understanding the reasons for his brusqueness, and he became one of my favorite characters of all time.
Lyndie is just as strongly drawn - compassionate, captivating, imaginative, determined and plain out adorable. She has a natural way with animals and I loved the way she was able to unlock the mystery of why the Thoroughbred, Silver Leaf, wouldn't run. But what drew me to Lyndie most was that, rather than allowing Jake to intimidate her, she desired to help and was determined that the powers of his dark world would not overtake him.
But the character who touched me most couldn't even see or hear , and that was Mollie, Lyndie's sister who had cerebral palsy. God works in mysterious ways, and while Becky is quick to point out that it is always God who heals, it was moving to see how He might have used this precious child at times - especially with her ability to draw Jake out and make him feel.
Also woven throughout are spiritual messages that I needed to hear - that loving someone is about acceptance of their weakness and flaws in addition to all that's good, and that we need to trust God with the things we can't control.
I don't know what Becky has planned next, but I certainly hope there will be a fourth book, because I have enjoyed reconnecting with the Porter family and am not ready to let them go - but then, will I ever?! However, I'm intrigued by the younger sister, Dru, and felt the stage was being set for her story. And there are some questions I'd love to see answered . . . For instance, will Bo and Meg ever be able to have a child? Does Silver Leaf go on to be a true champion? Do Amber and Will find happiness together?
I thoroughly enjoyed A Love Like Ours and hated to reach the final page. Highly recommended.
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 22, 2022
"He only had brokenness to offer—and very little faith. But he directed what faith he had toward accepting that Jesus’ death could pay for his mistakes."
Jake Porter's book was everything I'd hoped it would be. We knew from the first two Porter brothers' books that Jake has deep scars from his time in Iraq. Becky Wade gave him exactly what he needed in this book. He got Jesus, and a counselor, a supportive family, the perfect job for him, and his best childhood friend. I loved the storyline about Lyndie's sister, because fiction typically doesn't have characters with cerebral palsy as severe as Mollie's and we got a realistic picture of what life is like for families like hers who hope relentlessly in God. I also appreciated that Jake was not miraculously cured, but has to learn to live with his PTSD. And that means he won't suddenly be normal, and only someone as compassionate as Lyndie would be able to make the personal sacrifices necessary to make a relationship with him work.
It was a little weird that Lyndie's mom offered counseling to him, because ethical counselors do not see clients that they have an outside connection to. As it was, they only met casually, but she did offer to see him in her office (which he didn't take her up on), but in real life, that would not be a thing.
"The kind of help she had in mind for Jake had nothing to do with Valentine’s Day emotions and everything to do with God’s power to redeem."
I wanted to mention this quote specifically: "Jake had distanced himself from God, and Lyndie didn’t believe that God called His people into romantic relationships with unbelievers." BECAUSE lately it's seemed that the author doesn't still hold this belief as firmly as she did when this book published. Her believing characters fall in love with unbelieving ones all the time without pause. It stuck out to me here, because Finley (in Wade's Turn to Me) needs to hear this. So here you go, Finley.
And God bless the rest of the Porters: “Don’t look at me.” Ty shrugged. “I was brought here under false pretenses. Bo told me there’d be donuts.”
I want to read this book for the first time again, because it's near the top of my favorites by the author.
Jake Porter's book was everything I'd hoped it would be. We knew from the first two Porter brothers' books that Jake has deep scars from his time in Iraq. Becky Wade gave him exactly what he needed in this book. He got Jesus, and a counselor, a supportive family, the perfect job for him, and his best childhood friend. I loved the storyline about Lyndie's sister, because fiction typically doesn't have characters with cerebral palsy as severe as Mollie's and we got a realistic picture of what life is like for families like hers who hope relentlessly in God. I also appreciated that Jake was not miraculously cured, but has to learn to live with his PTSD. And that means he won't suddenly be normal, and only someone as compassionate as Lyndie would be able to make the personal sacrifices necessary to make a relationship with him work.
It was a little weird that Lyndie's mom offered counseling to him, because ethical counselors do not see clients that they have an outside connection to. As it was, they only met casually, but she did offer to see him in her office (which he didn't take her up on), but in real life, that would not be a thing.
"The kind of help she had in mind for Jake had nothing to do with Valentine’s Day emotions and everything to do with God’s power to redeem."
I wanted to mention this quote specifically: "Jake had distanced himself from God, and Lyndie didn’t believe that God called His people into romantic relationships with unbelievers." BECAUSE lately it's seemed that the author doesn't still hold this belief as firmly as she did when this book published. Her believing characters fall in love with unbelieving ones all the time without pause. It stuck out to me here, because Finley (in Wade's Turn to Me) needs to hear this. So here you go, Finley.
And God bless the rest of the Porters: “Don’t look at me.” Ty shrugged. “I was brought here under false pretenses. Bo told me there’d be donuts.”
I want to read this book for the first time again, because it's near the top of my favorites by the author.
June 22, 2015
What I loved:
The complex characters. I love that Becky Wade didn't treat PTSD as an "easy fix" where Jake finds love and suddenly has no issues/problems.
I really liked Lyndie. She's strong and independent.
I LOVED seeing the characters from the two earlier books in the series--catching up with old friends.
I thought the faith element was solid and added to the story.
What I didn't like:
Ty is described throughout the series as very good looking. However, in this book, he is married. YET, Lyndie's friend (and side story in the book) gets flustered around him because he's so hot and comments/notices his good looks too many times. It had an uncomfortable feel to it.
Overall, this is a great book. Becky Wade is a fantastic writer, and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
The complex characters. I love that Becky Wade didn't treat PTSD as an "easy fix" where Jake finds love and suddenly has no issues/problems.
I really liked Lyndie. She's strong and independent.
I LOVED seeing the characters from the two earlier books in the series--catching up with old friends.
I thought the faith element was solid and added to the story.
What I didn't like:
Ty is described throughout the series as very good looking. However, in this book, he is married. YET, Lyndie's friend (and side story in the book) gets flustered around him because he's so hot and comments/notices his good looks too many times. It had an uncomfortable feel to it.
Overall, this is a great book. Becky Wade is a fantastic writer, and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
March 16, 2020
This was so close to a 5 star but it dragged a bit a times that I can’t say it’s an absolute favourite. There was a really special faith moment that squeezed emotion in me. Becky Wade knows how to write relationships!
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July 8, 2020I DNF the book. I'm sure its good but I don't like books about horses.
June 8, 2015
To all my contemporary romance fans, this is a fantastic book and I believe you will enjoy it!! Though I know everyone has different opinions. I have read every book Becky Wade has ever written & I do believe this one is now my favorite of them all. Jake Porter is a former marine & a very wounded hero in "A Love Like Ours" but I suppose that is what was endearing about him to me. He was terrified of what he couldn't control. Such as people getting hurt on his watch. Yet, he had a vulnerability about him that made your heartache for his character & you just simply can't help but love him. Then there's Lyndie James, always wanting to fix what's broken. Even though she knows that she can't possibly do it without God's help. She sets out to help Jake & in the mean time, falls head over heals in love with her childhood best friend. You honestly can't help but love our heroine either. Her love for people, animals & God is contagious. No matter how hard life got, she always said "God is good". Then there's Jake, who wanted nothing to do with God, yet as the story goes on, he can't help but see evidence of the Lord in Lyndie's life. One thing I really loved about this book is that no matter how broken Jake thought he was, Lyndie always saw him as beautifully broken. She loved him for all that he was in the present, ever flaw & every quirk she loved. I think we could all learn a little bit from Lyndie's character about loving someone just as God made them, not perfect but beautiful all the same. As for what happens throughout the story, you're going to have to read it to find out!! At first I thought they were developing feelings for each other too quickly but I assure you the timing was perfect for the way the story progressed. Though I loved the book very much it isn't one that I would recommend for younger readers, however the parts I am referring to didn't affect my personal rating much, it did a little to be honest but it wasn't anything major. I simply thought I would make a note of that for those looking to read this book that may be under the age of sixteen/eighteen. Personally I also thought that toward the end of the book it started speeding up too much, though all of the loose ends were tied up in the epilogue, I still felt that the ending would have been a bit better had it been longer. The ending is what honestly affected my rating the most. I told my friend that I was torn because I loved it enough to give it five stars but it didn't quite make it because of the things I have
previously mentioned. All in all I give this book 4.5 stars and I do recommend it to lovers of contemporary fiction!! I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are mine.
previously mentioned. All in all I give this book 4.5 stars and I do recommend it to lovers of contemporary fiction!! I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are mine.
May 13, 2015
Jake Porter is a former Marine. He's seen a lot of action. And while he may have returned home mostly unscathed, he's suffering from PTSD. He lives a solitary life, remains on the outskirts of his family, and is generally left alone. But he's got a talent for getting the best out of a horse and enjoys his time spent training Thoroughbreds. When his childhood best friend, Lyndie James, moves back to Holley, Texas, Jake is pushed out of his comfort zone and cautiously hires her to exercise his horses. She's fearless and has a gentle touch. So Jake pairs her with his stallion Silver Leaf, a horse with lots of promise but little results hoping she can figure out the mystery behind the horse's reluctance to run. Though the years have passed and both Lyndie and Jake are far different adults than the children they once were, neither can deny that there is still a bond between them. As they spend more and more time together, Jake's drawn to Lyndie's gentleness against his will. He feels that he wouldn't be good for her. Will Lyndie's persistence pay off and Jake be able to let go of his fears to find love? Or will his fears keep them apart for good?
I've enjoyed each and every book in the Porter Family series. This one was no exception. Becky has done a tremendous job of creating very deep characters. I don't think I've ever read a book where the main character suffers from PTSD. The way that she addresses it is done with grace and care.
I loved the ways that Lyndie worked with both Jake and Silver Leaf to overcome their fears. She was gentle yet strong. In some ways, she treated Jake like a skittish colt. And the depth to Jake's character really did wow me. He is definitely the definition of a wounded hero. I also loved getting a glimpse into Ty and Celia now too.
There were a couple of things that bothered me, and they're rather minor. First I didn't like the way that one of the characters kept going on and on about how handsome Ty was, even though he was/is happily married. And the other thing was the way that it felt that Lyndie had to give up her dream to have Jake. Like I said, those are minor, and didn't detract at all from my enjoyment of the book.
I received the book for free from the author to help promote it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of contemporary romance, Becky Wade, Katie Ganshert, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
I've enjoyed each and every book in the Porter Family series. This one was no exception. Becky has done a tremendous job of creating very deep characters. I don't think I've ever read a book where the main character suffers from PTSD. The way that she addresses it is done with grace and care.
I loved the ways that Lyndie worked with both Jake and Silver Leaf to overcome their fears. She was gentle yet strong. In some ways, she treated Jake like a skittish colt. And the depth to Jake's character really did wow me. He is definitely the definition of a wounded hero. I also loved getting a glimpse into Ty and Celia now too.
There were a couple of things that bothered me, and they're rather minor. First I didn't like the way that one of the characters kept going on and on about how handsome Ty was, even though he was/is happily married. And the other thing was the way that it felt that Lyndie had to give up her dream to have Jake. Like I said, those are minor, and didn't detract at all from my enjoyment of the book.
I received the book for free from the author to help promote it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of contemporary romance, Becky Wade, Katie Ganshert, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
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