Member Reviews
Molly McKenzie is a beauty/fashion blogger with quite a successful business. Her manager suggests that to boost her image even more, she should take on some kind of good cause/volunteer position in the community. Not really knowing where to start, her brother suggests she visit The Bridge Youth Home, which is a home for young adults who have aged out of the foster program. Molly couldn't expect what would come of this sneaky plan that started out as a way to make her look good, but ended up changing lots of lives.
I wasn't sure how to feel about Molly at the start of the story. I thought maybe she was a little shallow and selfish, but her character really went through some growth and changed a lot throughout the story. I also really enjoyed the setting and pretty much all of the side characters. Everyone was likeable and genuine and I loved how the author used the kids there to reach Molly and influence her life.
Overall this is a quick and uplifting contemporary Christian novel that will make you smile. There are elements of romance that will warm your heart and make you smile.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
If there's such thing as a perfect book, this one is definitely it.
I really like it when books don't fit into the standard mold of the genre; in this book's case, it was the characters' views on God and religion.
I'm not exaggerating when I say this is the first time I've read a romance where the characters have any semblance of a relationship with God that wasn't a spiritual or historical fiction. I also liked how the author described their faith, they weren't living by the book per se, but it felt great reading how they found strength in the face of hardships from their faith, it was written in a way you can relate to whatever religion you're following.
The storyline was super rich and poignant, I wouldn't describe it as completely original but the execution of the plot lines was definitely unique.
Molly and Silas were also such a cute couple with a lot of chemistry, their relationship was beautiful and healthy, a relationship you wish to have, at least I do.
I also loved how their love story progressed, they didn't jump from zero to hundred immediately, and also there wasn't the usual enemies to lovers arc, just two adults attracted to each other and pursuing a relationship.
Easily one of my favorite books.
*I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This novel is going to knock your socks off. Nicole Deese is a must read author. She brings such depth and emotion to her stories, and this one (and her others) will absolutely touch your heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
All That Really Matters was a book that surprised me. At first I wasn't a fan of of the characters or "influencer" storyline, but as I continued reading I grew to enjoy it. I liked how Molly changed throughout the book and the ending was very good.
The story, while overall fun, did have some depth and hearfelt moments (which I liked). The romance was fine and I feel Silas was a good match for her.
All in all, All That Really Matters was a good read and I think fans of contemporary romance will enjoy it. I'm looking forward to the next book!
*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.*
Influencers aren't my favorite of characters, and in the beginning I struggled to connect with Molly. I trusted this author to develop her character though, and so glad I stayed engaged to witness her transformation. I loved how she slowly shed the self-absorbed lifestyle and mindset as her awareness expands during her service at the transitional home, The Bridge. She not only helps them, she receives so much through the relationships she develops and invests in. We are shown her deeper strengths that rise from dormancy and stretch as she steps out of her comfort zone, a new understanding blossoming. Silas has an interesting history and he's easy to admire, especially when he begins to lighten up with Molly's growing presence at The Bridge. There is a wonderful cast of secondary characters that shine and provide opportunities in the story to show the reader small details about Molly and Silas ans they interact together. The difficult moments and lessons showed how those times are the ones that help us grow the most. Excited to read Miles and Val's book next!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
This is part women’s fiction and part romance. Readers will become invested in the characters‘ journey with social media and ministry. There are two points of view with most of the chapters from Molly’s experience. Silas’s chapters focus on his feelings for Molly and his estranged brother. Side characters include Gen Z to older adults. This is the first of two books about faith, set in the same community. Romantic at times, with frequent moments of reflection and reality.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for the e-galley. I listened to the audiobook for this review. My ratings and reviews are my own.
tw/cw: physical violence; stories about children being abandoned and/or mistreated; mentions of drug use/abuse;
This was sweet and poignant and had a gentle love story. It falls into the contemporary christian/inspirational fiction category - lots of references to faith, prayer, etc. and yet it didn't feel overly "preachy" to me - in many ways it remained relative and relatable.
I adored Molly, a social media influencer trying to find herself in the face in the mirror. She finds humility and strength while volunteering at a youth transition home and overcomes challenges to her integrity in her career. She's slightly ridiculous (in a sparkly effervescent way) and even though she was not a perfect character, I think I'd like to be her friend - especially as she showed so much growth.
This definitely won't be everyone's cup of tea - you either like this genre or you don't - but it worked for me and I'd definitely recommend if you enjoy "clean" contemporary romance/christian women's fiction.
Molly McKenzie is an internet influencer and makeup maven on the verge of a huge opportunity that will take her to the next level and she's got to do something to increase her chances of winning. So she volunteers with a local organization that helps at risk youth, while there she finds herself challenged and accepted for who she is beneath the face that she shows the world.
Engaging and heart tugging read, I loved seeing Molly change over the course of the book as she befriends the girls, wins over program director Silas, and comes to see life from a different perspective. Molly has a big heart, though a little misguided at first. She is charming, and hard not to like despite her superficial exterior, I loved how the author made her someone I cared about through her vulnerability, flaws, and friendships with the girls.
A captivating read that I didn't want to put down, this book had heart, amazing characters, great interaction, charm, humor and faith. I had my doubts about this book, as it focuses heavily on the world of being a social media influencer, but my doubts were quickly put to rest as Molly became someone that I cheered for. Perfect for fans of Christian contemporary romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Really enjoyed this book. It was different from what I usually read, but it sounded so interesting I couldn’t resist - and I’m glad I didn’t!
A fantastic story! More than just a love story; it had grit, grace, and a great cause. The life lessons that Molly learned over the course of the book were relatable and beautiful to read about. I loved it. I love Silas. New favourite author here!
This story was full of truths, romance and life lessons. I truly loved the honesty of the author. This heart warming story was encouraging and entertaining. This story was captivating and stayed with me for a long time. I loved it
I will admit that I was skeptical of this book with it's main character being a fashion vlogger. But my skepticism quickly vanished with the very first chapter of Nicole Deese's All That Really Matters. The characters are well developed, relatable and likable. The storyline is one I have never read before and always kept me engaged - even to the point of staying up late into the night just to see what happened next. Deese has a beautiful way of weaving faith throughout the story and you simply cannot help but be moved by it. All That Really Matters will be one that I recommend over and over!
A delightful book full of adventure, action, and thrills. Fun to read, engrossing world building, and very descriptive imagery made it feel like it was cinematic. It's hard to resist the story as it drives forward. Would recommend.
When I first started this book, I was instantly turned off by the main character Molly. I decided this story really wasn’t for me and I shelved it and began reading a different one.
The next day I felt compelled to try it again and keep reading. And guess what. I was drawn in, hook, line, and sinker. And once I delved further into the story, and the persona of Molly, I realized just how fitting it was that I gave Molly a second chance.
This story is all about second chances. And forgiveness. And genuine love for others. It truly is about “all that really matters” in life.
By the end of the story I adored Molly. I cheered for her and wiped tears from my eyes as Molly transformed and grew into a likable person before my very eyes. The romance in this story was beautiful to behold, but the ministry of completely loving others was the shining star in this book. I highly recommend.
When I started reading this book I began to wonder if it would be like so many others. Boy was I wrong! Take a social media sensation who has build her reputation on fashion and makeup and turn it into a volunteer opportunity it is amazing how God can work to change lives and refocus them on what and Who is most important. Oh, and a little romance along the way always helps.
Everyone should read this book. In a modern way, a fashion influencer meets group home life and it felt as though real life collides with social media. Teens and adults alike will relate to this story. Great writing!
All That Really Matters
by Nicole Deese
Pub Date 06 Apr 2021 | Archive Date 31 May 2021
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Romance
I am reviewing a copy of All That Really Matters through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
Molly McKenzie has earned an impressive social media following as well as a shiny monthly paycheck, through her bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice. When her manager-turned-boyfriend tells her of an upcoming audition to host a makeover show for America's underprivileged youth, all her dreams finally seem to be coming true. There’s only problem though she doesn’t have experience working with those in need.
In order to gain an edge on her competitors, she applies to volunteer at a transitional program for aged-out foster kids during summer, only the program's director, Silas Whittaker, doesn't find her as charming as her followers do. Forfeiting a goal has never been her style, so Molly’s only option accept the terms Silas lays out and submit to his rules, including the ones pertaining to social media.
It isn’t long before the residence of the home become more than a means to pad her career resume, and Silas becomes more than an obstacle on her path to fame, her once-narrow focus expands to include the deep needs of those she's serving... and perhaps the ones she's neglected inside herself as well. It took her years to build her platform, but only a summer to discover what truly mattered.
I give All that Really Matters five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
After I got over the sadness that I’d finished this delightful book, it took me a few days to gather my words together to try to express how much I loved this book. First, it was just the right balance of humor and depth I needed. If you don’t fall in love with these characters, are you even human?
Second, I want to know what happens to Miles. And I’m excited that we will get to read his story too.
But back to All That Really Matters, Molly and Silas are wonderful and I wish I knew them in real life. I had to put the book down near the end to do some work, and I found myself worrying about them, and wondering if they were going to be okay given the circumstances they found themselves in at around that point in the book where I left off.
Nicole Deese tells a story that has heart, humor, and hope. All I can say is, enjoy the ride, this one is a gem!
I received an ARC from the publisher. My opinion is my own.
Absolutely stunning book. I could not read fast enough to satiate my desire to learn all that I could about Molly and Silas. I loved Molly's determination that carried her through the story and helped her overcome obstacles that could have left her devastated, and did for a time, but she managed to overcome. I connected with Silas and his difficult journey to forgive his brother. His emotions were real and powerful enough that they felt like real life. It was great to step into this story and see real issues addressed in a way that didn't feel like they were brushed over or glossed away.
I absolutely loved this story. The growth process the female character goes through and the thawing of the male lead, it was a beauty to behold. I love she learned to use her talents to benefit the home after everything that happened. As with the author's signature.style, I enjoyed the fact that though it might look like everyone is living behind a mask sometimes it takes courage to stand out and be better versions of yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via the publisher. All opinions expressed are solely mine