I loved this romance between Sally and Peter in spite of Norma Jean trying to sabotage their getting together. In fact, her sabotage pushed them closer together. I recommend this book for those who enjoy clean romance reading. Jessie's books make me happy and Jay's narrative of the audiobook makes the joy complete.
Edit: I finished the book and I enjoyed it a lot. However, my feelings about Norma Jean are still the same for the most part. I don't feel like she had any major redemption. I did like the bit when her inner monologue acknowledges that she would normally be jealous of the little girl and her being ready to change that, it showed a presence of mind. But at the same time, it shows that she isn't just an empty-headed idiot that simply doesn't realise that her actions are hurting people, she knows it and she still does things. I would, I think, like a story of her own where she truly does redeem herself, become a good person and apologise to those she caused pain to, especially her dear friend. But in the end, the fact that she was moved aside enough to allow our lovely main couple to thrive together, made me happy. I'm on chapter 7 and quite frankly I wish I could reach through the story and pick Norma Jean up and delete her. Even with her past, that is no excuse for being such a selfish, self centered person, willing to hurt those that care for her and are loyal to her. I'm sure that further into the story there will be a change, but I just wanted to commend Jessie on her writing at this point, because I know that there will be a happily ever after for our main characters, she has written it in such a way that I'm left feeling very strong emotions and wondering what will happen. Nice work Jessie.xx
I concur! Wanted to take Norma Jean out behind the woodshed and give her an old fashioned hickory tea butt spankin’ Lord, forgive these thoughts! Sally, be kind and loving but no longer a “doormat”! Great writing however!
Thank you, EV, and it's so good to hear from you! I'm not going to spoil anything (of course 😁) but I'll say you're not wrong about the end. I really think this ending was - for me, anyway - really thought-provoking, especially with respect to what we're taught by the world versus what the Bible - and Jesus - says.
Thank you for your thoughts too, @ImAWhoSoEverWithJesus - but I really had to stop and comment on the video on your channel... is that your grandson? He was so funny! I loved the wait-a-second finger while he was taking a drink, and I loved his closing: I'm convinced the world would be a much better place if every news broadcast ended with "and tomorrow, we're eating waffles and bacon, and that's all the news!"
@SaywithJay Yes, that is my grandson in his earlier years. He is now 16 and still talks with his hands. 🙂 He takes after his Grandma with the hand gestures. Tie up the hands and we couldn’t talk at all. A feature of southern generational gifts passed down I suppose lol
@EnglishVirgo I wanted to thank you for your kind words. I always love reading your comments. I know in the movies all the bad guys always find redemption in big ways, and that’s so satisfying, but I wonder if it’s really like that in real life…or even if it’s supposed to be. In my life there are people who have hurt me and I know I will never get apologies from. And I wonder, isn’t it God’s command for me to love them anyway, so perhaps they’ll see Jesus in me and eventually come to Christ and isn’t a soul saved from hell better than a hundred, a million, apologies? (I can think of arguments for and against that, but that’s probably deeper than we want to go here, and bottom line is you’re right. Norma Jean needs redemption and I’d really like to write her book and see that she gets it! 😊)
“That’s the way my life is supposed to be. Just calm acceptance from God of whatever He wants to give me.” This book went through so much: how the Bible basically tells us to let others take advantage of us (not a new concept at all, seriously, think about Jesus’ words and actions), about being peaceable and forgiving no matter what, about letting go because God has it all under control even if His will for you is a life of pain, and multiple people and perspectives. I felt like I was getting so much more than just one love story here. As always, Gussman’s books both challenge and edify my faith. However, in recent months as physical health issues become more prominent and medical answers and help are few and far between, her books bring me comfort. They confirm my faith and trust in our Healing God who holds us through it all and brings about His work for His glory.
Absolutely wonderful book! I am so glad Sally was able to have her story told. The fact Peter was her match is almost too funny. As always, Jessie has given us life lessons through her the characters. She is such a master story teller and teacher. How Jay is able to do the narrative of the book in such an entertaining way is beyond my comprehension. They are both such talented people and make a great team. Thank you to both for bringing such wonderful entertainment.
Thank you so much, Karen - it's so sweet of you to say. I'm glad you enjoyed the book - Jessie definitely did write a wonderful story! Thank you, and Merry Christmas!
Jessie and Jay you are a dynamic duo! Jessie, thank you for these stories. They are entertaining, uplifting and challenging. This one especially challenges me to step outside of my comfort zone. To sacrifice for the good of other people. Jay, I thoroughly enjoy your character voices and how you bring the stories to life. Keep up the great work and God bless you both!
I think you could be correct - I am absolutely terrible at remembering names (and I might have gotten her confused with a different character). Usually Jay is fabulous at catching my mix-ups, (and my ARC team catches them as well) but if I recall correctly, we did this one around the holidays last year, which is always a distracting time. Thanks so much for mentioning it - we'll look into it. : )
Peter likes Sally but every time he turns around she's encouraging him to ignore her and spend time with her friend. Sally might be developing feelings for Peter but her friend has her sights set on him and everyone knows that if your friend likes someone you can't. What's Peter to do? He doesn't care for Sally's friend and the schemes and manipulations to get him are not helping. He wants Sally and he thinks she likes him too? Will it take a scheme going terribly wrong to fix things for everyone? Listening to the audio version this morning was the best way to start the day. I received an ARC from the author. Review voluntarily given.
My review Wow, there are so many Godly principles in this story. Sally does her best to live her life as Jesus would have her. Peter is an interesting character that realizes his need to accept God’s will. This amazing book takes you through many deep thoughts that are very powerful. Very inspirational story, like all the books by Jessie Gussman, that help my spiritual journey. I can’t wait for Norma Jean and Miles’ story. And what will Lana decide. Not to mention Rodney and Becky.
Just a question: why do almost all if not all of the "classically beautiful" ladies always get down played with less than good manners, attitude, and behavior? It's like if you're pretty you're automatically rotten. Just wondering, as it's not fair, just like assuming that someone who may seem plain or even "classically ugly" don't have much to offer. 🤷♀️
Ha! That's a great question! I don't mean to do that. Off the top of my head, Morgan, the heroine in The Cowboy's Beauty was a "classically" beautiful woman. She made her living as a model. I remember writing another book where the heroine was beautiful and wondered if people loved her because of her looks or because of "her." (I can't remember which one that was, but maybe it was in the Heartland series?) But you're right, I do have a tendency to write about "normal" people, who maybe aren't considered beautiful on the outside. I think that's what the majority of my readers are - normal people whose looks aren't going to land them on a magazine cover. But I don't mean to deamonize anyone's looks or to imply that anyone who is beautiful can't be good inside. I'll try to watch how I present that from now on. Thanks for the heads up.
Buy one get one free!!! Two romances in this finale of the Strawberry Sands' series! Cows escaping, off limits cowboy, forced proximity, obnoxious and beautiful friend... All wrapped up in one happy ending! Thank you Jay for your voices!
Chapter 6. Nope, can't handle any more Norma Jean, or pathetic Peter. He had a great idea when he wanted to beat his head against the wall. I would have helped him. I think I'll go watch some football or soccer. I love listening to your voices Jay, but I'll read the book where I can skip all the Norma drama and find out how Lana ends up.
Love this series! Cant wait to read what happens with Becky and Rodney relationship.
Have truly enjoyed reading their relationship grow thru their trials and tribulations.
Thank you so much, Phyllis! I definitely hope Jessie features them when we come back to Raspberry Ridge later this year!
Do we get to hear more about Norma Jean's marriage? Maybe a marriage of convenience turned enemies to lovers after that confession of hers?
Thanks, Rhiannon! I don't know - that's a question for Jessie - but I sure hope so!
Yeah, I was planning on writing a marriage of convenience story for them, hopefully soon! : )
I loved this romance between Sally and Peter in spite of Norma Jean trying to sabotage their getting together. In fact, her sabotage pushed them closer together. I recommend this book for those who enjoy clean romance reading. Jessie's books make me happy and Jay's narrative of the audiobook makes the joy complete.
Thank you so much, Karen! You're so very kind!
Edit: I finished the book and I enjoyed it a lot. However, my feelings about Norma Jean are still the same for the most part. I don't feel like she had any major redemption. I did like the bit when her inner monologue acknowledges that she would normally be jealous of the little girl and her being ready to change that, it showed a presence of mind. But at the same time, it shows that she isn't just an empty-headed idiot that simply doesn't realise that her actions are hurting people, she knows it and she still does things. I would, I think, like a story of her own where she truly does redeem herself, become a good person and apologise to those she caused pain to, especially her dear friend.
But in the end, the fact that she was moved aside enough to allow our lovely main couple to thrive together, made me happy.
I'm on chapter 7 and quite frankly I wish I could reach through the story and pick Norma Jean up and delete her. Even with her past, that is no excuse for being such a selfish, self centered person, willing to hurt those that care for her and are loyal to her. I'm sure that further into the story there will be a change, but I just wanted to commend Jessie on her writing at this point, because I know that there will be a happily ever after for our main characters, she has written it in such a way that I'm left feeling very strong emotions and wondering what will happen. Nice work Jessie.xx
I concur! Wanted to take Norma Jean out behind the woodshed and give her an old fashioned hickory tea butt spankin’ Lord, forgive these thoughts! Sally, be kind and loving but no longer a “doormat”! Great writing however!
Thank you, EV, and it's so good to hear from you! I'm not going to spoil anything (of course 😁) but I'll say you're not wrong about the end. I really think this ending was - for me, anyway - really thought-provoking, especially with respect to what we're taught by the world versus what the Bible - and Jesus - says.
Thank you for your thoughts too, @ImAWhoSoEverWithJesus - but I really had to stop and comment on the video on your channel... is that your grandson? He was so funny! I loved the wait-a-second finger while he was taking a drink, and I loved his closing: I'm convinced the world would be a much better place if every news broadcast ended with "and tomorrow, we're eating waffles and bacon, and that's all the news!"
@SaywithJay Yes, that is my grandson in his earlier years. He is now 16 and still talks with his hands. 🙂 He takes after his Grandma with the hand gestures. Tie up the hands and we couldn’t talk at all. A feature of southern generational gifts passed down I suppose lol
@EnglishVirgo I wanted to thank you for your kind words. I always love reading your comments. I know in the movies all the bad guys always find redemption in big ways, and that’s so satisfying, but I wonder if it’s really like that in real life…or even if it’s supposed to be. In my life there are people who have hurt me and I know I will never get apologies from. And I wonder, isn’t it God’s command for me to love them anyway, so perhaps they’ll see Jesus in me and eventually come to Christ and isn’t a soul saved from hell better than a hundred, a million, apologies? (I can think of arguments for and against that, but that’s probably deeper than we want to go here, and bottom line is you’re right. Norma Jean needs redemption and I’d really like to write her book and see that she gets it! 😊)
“That’s the way my life is supposed to be. Just calm acceptance from God of whatever He wants to give me.”
This book went through so much: how the Bible basically tells us to let others take advantage of us (not a new concept at all, seriously, think about Jesus’ words and actions), about being peaceable and forgiving no matter what, about letting go because God has it all under control even if His will for you is a life of pain, and multiple people and perspectives. I felt like I was getting so much more than just one love story here. As always, Gussman’s books both challenge and edify my faith. However, in recent months as physical health issues become more prominent and medical answers and help are few and far between, her books bring me comfort. They confirm my faith and trust in our Healing God who holds us through it all and brings about His work for His glory.
Thank you, Michaela! I'm right there with you, and you said it so very well: I feel like I'm getting more than just a love story!
Kindness ok but people taking advantage of you no.
Proverbs 29:21
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts, Patricia.
Absolutely wonderful book! I am so glad Sally was able to have her story told. The fact Peter was her match is almost too funny. As always, Jessie has given us life lessons through her the characters. She is such a master story teller and teacher. How Jay is able to do the narrative of the book in such an entertaining way is beyond my comprehension. They are both such talented people and make a great team. Thank you to both for bringing such wonderful entertainment.
Thank you so much, Karen - it's so sweet of you to say. I'm glad you enjoyed the book - Jessie definitely did write a wonderful story! Thank you, and Merry Christmas!
I love the life lesson that are taught in these books
Each story is better and better. Solving problems with the word of God.
Thank you, Mary! I'm so happy you're enjoying these!
Another winner! I both read and listened to this-so fun. Sad the series is finished. You get so invested in the characters.
Thank you, Wren! And by the way, stay tuned... we might have a little surprise coming! 😁
Jessie and Jay you are a dynamic duo! Jessie, thank you for these stories. They are entertaining, uplifting and challenging. This one especially challenges me to step outside of my comfort zone. To sacrifice for the good of other people. Jay, I thoroughly enjoy your character voices and how you bring the stories to life. Keep up the great work and God bless you both!
Thank you, Mindy - it's our pleasure. I'm so very glad you enjoyed it (and you used my favorite word to describe Jessie's books - uplifting!)
Sally has a good story even with Norma Jean. It is a good story and I enjoyed the storylines. Wow to the ending of this one. Good reading.
Thank you, Erralee! So glad you enjoyed it!
Sally's last name, appearance, and personality are different from how she is described in There I Find Light. Or is it just me?
Oooh - I don't know; I'll have to check that out, Norine. Thank you for pointing it out!
I think you could be correct - I am absolutely terrible at remembering names (and I might have gotten her confused with a different character). Usually Jay is fabulous at catching my mix-ups, (and my ARC team catches them as well) but if I recall correctly, we did this one around the holidays last year, which is always a distracting time. Thanks so much for mentioning it - we'll look into it. : )
Peter likes Sally but every time he turns around she's encouraging him to ignore her and spend time with her friend. Sally might be developing feelings for Peter but her friend has her sights set on him and everyone knows that if your friend likes someone you can't. What's Peter to do? He doesn't care for Sally's friend and the schemes and manipulations to get him are not helping. He wants Sally and he thinks she likes him too? Will it take a scheme going terribly wrong to fix things for everyone? Listening to the audio version this morning was the best way to start the day.
I received an ARC from the author. Review voluntarily given.
Thanks so much for this wonderful review! I agree - there aren't too many better ways to make a day great than to start it listening to Jay!
❤love the book ,thank you
It's our pleasure, Phyllis!
2nd time ❤️❤️!
It's great hearing that it's as good second time around. Thanks, Ge!
Loved the book
Thank you, Patricia! I'm so glad you did!
My review
Wow, there are so many Godly principles in this story. Sally does her best to live her life as Jesus would have her. Peter is an interesting character that realizes his need to accept God’s will. This amazing book takes you through many deep thoughts that are very powerful. Very inspirational story, like all the books by Jessie Gussman, that help my spiritual journey. I can’t wait for Norma Jean and Miles’ story. And what will Lana decide. Not to mention Rodney and Becky.
Thank you so much for such kind words and a wonderful review, Lucia! Have a very merry Christmas!
Now that the holidays are over, I have time to listen to your audiobooks and crochet. I am enjoying this book.
Thank you, Karen - so glad you're enjoying it, and yes, as fun as the holidays are, it is nice to be able to stop, take a deep breath, and relax!
I must admit, I strayed to other audio books…
I missed the many voices of Jay
Great book.
Merry Christmas
Haha - the nice thing is, we'll always welcome you back! Thank you, Jan!
This was just the sweetest book! How important it is to think of others and be kind. Wonderful story🥰
Lissa
Thank you, Lissa - very well said, and I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Merry Christmas to you and Jim!
This is a fabulous book I knew someone like normal jean once thanks for sharing this fantastic book loved it
Thank you, Dyann! Me too, but I wish I could have responded as well as Sally did. 🙂 Glad you enjoyed it!
Love it!❤️
As always!
Thank you! I agree - Jay always does an amazing job at bringing stories to life!
Just a question: why do almost all if not all of the "classically beautiful" ladies always get down played with less than good manners, attitude, and behavior? It's like if you're pretty you're automatically rotten. Just wondering, as it's not fair, just like assuming that someone who may seem plain or even "classically ugly" don't have much to offer.
🤷♀️
Ha! That's a great question! I don't mean to do that. Off the top of my head, Morgan, the heroine in The Cowboy's Beauty was a "classically" beautiful woman. She made her living as a model. I remember writing another book where the heroine was beautiful and wondered if people loved her because of her looks or because of "her." (I can't remember which one that was, but maybe it was in the Heartland series?) But you're right, I do have a tendency to write about "normal" people, who maybe aren't considered beautiful on the outside. I think that's what the majority of my readers are - normal people whose looks aren't going to land them on a magazine cover. But I don't mean to deamonize anyone's looks or to imply that anyone who is beautiful can't be good inside. I'll try to watch how I present that from now on. Thanks for the heads up.
I'm pretty sure that if all women were like Norma-gene, the human race would be extinct.
Listening Dec 22, 2023.
Buy one get one free!!! Two romances in this finale of the Strawberry Sands' series! Cows escaping, off limits cowboy, forced proximity, obnoxious and beautiful friend... All wrapped up in one happy ending! Thank you Jay for your voices!
As always, it's my honor and privilege to do it for you. Thank you so much, and joyeux Noel!
@@SaywithJay Joyeux Noël to you and your loved ones ! A bientôt 😊
Chapter 6. Nope, can't handle any more Norma Jean, or pathetic Peter. He had a great idea when he wanted to beat his head against the wall. I would have helped him.
I think I'll go watch some football or soccer.
I love listening to your voices Jay, but I'll read the book where I can skip all the Norma drama and find out how Lana ends up.
Thank you for taking the time to let me know; I'm sorry you didn't care for it. I do appreciate you sharing your thoughts!
Are you basing your stories on pastoral counseling etc….?…It’s pretty heavy on that line… Thank you…
Thank you for posting another of your lovelly audiobooks happy Christmas and new year festival best wishes to you and your family
You're so very welcome, Marta! Merry Christmas to you and your family as well!
@@SaywithJay thank you for kind and warm reply best wishes to your family and friends