All That It Takes, by Nicole Deese, is a stunning sequel to All That Really Matters. Authentically vulnerable and abounding with heart and purpose, this novel offers a reading experience that is profoundly moving. Page after page, this book gently welcomes the reader into a deeply relevant story that is emotionally thoughtful and truly meaningful. Its absorbing plot and relatable characters make this book as engaging as it is memorable.

Incorporating bold honesty with plenty of wit and wisdom, Ms. Deese has crafted a storyline that explores many valuable themes, including friendship, love, parenthood, purpose, insecurity, compassion, and faith. The plot of this novel is fresh and engrossing, offering the reader plenty of sweet romance and dramatic tension. Furthermore, the first-person point of view of the main characters is vibrant and compelling. Their emotional, personal, and spiritual development throughout the book is touching and believable. Likewise, the secondary characters are quite captivating and add a special depth to the story.

All That It Takes, is a distinctive book that uplifts and inspires. Beyond its ability to entertain, it also bestows genuine hope and encouragement. This novel is a sincere pleasure to read, and I eagerly recommend it.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

I really enjoyed this book! I included the first book, All That Really Matters, in my list of favorite reads from 2021, so I was really glad that I liked this book just as much as the first! Although I maybe liked this one slightly better only because I related to Val a little more.

The characters in this story are so likable. They're relatable, flawed and well rounded; they just felt so real! Even the secondary and minor characters take on a life of their own and come across as very genuine. Miles is just so kind and I love his relationship with Tucker, Val is easy to relate to with her personality and insecurities, and Tucker (Val's son) is so fun and lovable. And the way Val and Miles re-meet really had me laughing. I won't ruin it but it's pretty hilarious and involves a lightsaber.

Miles and Val both struggle when their life plans get disrupted and they're left trying to figure out what to do next. They're forced to stop and reevaluate who they are and what direction they want to go in. With the help of some wise and some unexpected characters throughout the story we see them on their journey to overcoming their struggles.

There are some hard topics and lessons that are dealt with throughout the book that I thought were handled well. It's a good reminder that even when things are hard or a circumstance seems hopeless that God can redeem the situation.

I found the faith component to be very well done. It's SO rare to read a Christian book that doesn't come across as preachy. Especially with Miles being a pastor you would expect some preachiness, but it doesn't come across that way at all. Miles isn't perfect and still has struggles and issues relating to church and church politics.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and really can't think of anything I didn't like about it! The characters, the scene/setting, the romance, faith aspect, the struggles, etc. were so honest, raw, and real that it made the story feel like a movie in your mind. I'm looking forward to whatever comes next from this author!

I loved this story and the depth it had to it! The characters were wonderful and I could relate to both of their journeys. 5 Stars!!!

Val Locklier is a single mom who moves cross-country to take a job with her best friend, Molly. However, less than a week into this new adventure, Val's plans fall apart, and she finds herself and her son renting an apartment from Molly's twin brother, Miles. She also takes on an unpaid internship as part of a film contest.

When Miles returns from a trip to Mexico, the last thing he's expecting is to find that his sister has rented his apartment to new tenants while he was away. Restless and disillusioned, Miles is dealing with some unexpected changes of his own.

This was our first time reading a book written by Nicole Deese and it was exciting to find another author to enjoy. Even though this was the second book in a series, it was still easy to follow as a stand alone.

While one of the topics of this story revolves around innocence lost resulting in unplanned pregnancy, the book was filled with hope and the amazing truth of how our Lord takes the ashes of our life and turns them into beauty. This book is a wonderful example of putting feet to our faith and how our personal trials bring healing into the lives of others. If you know someone dealing with the struggle of an unplanned pregnancy who feels like nothing could ever be right again, you should hand them this book. It could save the life of that mother and her unborn child. We promise this story will bring tears of joy into your own personal circumstances.

We will definitely be reading additional titles by Nicole Deese!

All That it Takes by Nicole Deese is a glorious book. Flat out lovely. This is the second book in a series. although, you don’t need to read book one to enjoy or understand this one. That said, All That Really Matters is highly recommended.

The story still features social media influencer, Molly, but this story focuses on her twin brother, Pastor Miles. He comes home from a rough mission trip to find his sister’s best friend and young son have moved into the apartment above his own. Initially less than thrilled, Miles quickly bonds with Val and her young son.

I loved watching previously timid Val step into her own strength and gifting through this story. And Miles, for all his years of ministry, got a little bit lost before being thoroughly found. This is one of those books that lingers for days after you’ve reached the end. The characters endear themselves very quickly, and the clever twists and turns kept the pages turning long after I should’ve been asleep. This one is highly recommended.

Read an excerpt or buy a copy of All That it Takes

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Miles and Val's story and journey was one that was eye opening and heart tugging. Both of these characters were sincere people, wanting to do what was right, help others, make the most of their lives, and to move on from past disappointments and mistakes.

Val is a woman with a profound limp, suffered from a careless act when she was ten, and she has been living with the consequences and feelings since then. She is also a single mother raising her little boy the best she can. She has made a big life change. She has moved away from her parents to start anew on her own. A new job and a new state, but nothing goes quite right, and then Val is offered something that could possibly be so much better.

Miles is an outreach pastor, who has had his wings clipped and his ministry defunded. He is not happy, nor does he understand all that is going on. Forming his own assumptions and looking for a way out to further his own dreams, he is looking for an escape. But as Miles learns, sometimes not all is what it seems and God can use us anywhere, if we are but open to His call.

I really liked Val and Miles. They were two mature characters just trying to find their way in the world. Like I said earlier, they are sincere and genuine people, not out for their own gain, just trying to survive in a world that seems to want to take away from them. Their journey together was beautiful to watch and has enough life lessons for all of us to take heed of in our own lives.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

All That It Takes is a charming story - the perfect blend of lighthearted moments, sweet romance, spiritual truths, and characters who tug at your heartstrings. This book picks up where All That Really Matters left off, although it can be read as a standalone. Val and Miles, who we met in the last book, are both facing major changes in the trajectory of their lives.

Val’s story is one of facing her fears and stepping outside her comfort zone. Her realization that God can use her story to change lives in dramatic ways is a powerful example of vulnerability and authentic faith. Miles faces his own crisis of faith in a way, as his plans for his life are knocked off course for reasons outside of his control. His eyes are opened to new ways of doing ministry, in a way that is moving and thought-provoking. And of course, Val's son Tucker brings plenty of fun and laughter to the story!

While I would put this book in the contemporary romance genre, it is so much more - it is full of real, relatable characters who experience both the grit and grace of life. I highly recommend this series, especially to fans of authors like Becky Wade and Courtney Walsh!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I first found Nicole Deese last year and have been looking forward to more titles from her! I was truly invested in the stories of these characters and some of this twisted with my own. It has me thinking deeply of my own purpose and how I can make a difference in the lives of others. I appreciate books with wholehearted, clean characters. Definitely recommend.

All That It Takes, by Nicole Deese, is a relatable, realistic, but inspirational Christian romance book that you won’t want to miss! This story is easy to read and filled with hope and applicable life lessons from a Biblical standpoint. The characters are authentic and the plot is moving.

All That It Takes is a story that offers an important reminder about seeking God‘s counsel in all that we do and boldly stepping out in faith. This story is impactful, full of faith, and also a sweet romance we all aspire to. It was an absolute pleasure to read and I eagerly look forward to more from this author.

All That It Takes is the boy-meets-girl romance you’d expect, but it’s also a love letter to women who have overcome the fear, isolation, and myriad challenges presented by an unplanned pregnancy and, in particular, those who have loved those women through the experience, bringing hope where it’s most desperately needed.

All That It Takes moves Molly and Silas to the periphery, letting Miles and Val (and Tucker) take center stage. But it’s also a natural follow-up to All That Really Matters that is thematically deeper and maybe even more moving.

Nicole Deese makes writing look easy, and her craft improves with every novel. Readers are treated to a sweet romance with an attractive hero, but it’s the depth of character that moves the reader’s heart. The writing is honest, taking no cheap shortcuts, and obviously is the fruit of the author’s willingness to dig deep spiritually, allowing God to have a hand in her creativity.

All That It Takes deserves to be shared far and wide, where it can touch the hearts of those for whom God intended this story.

Another amazing book by Nicole Deese! I thought that All That Matters was a story filled with amazing grace, hope and love. Then Nicole said wait up let me give you All That It Takes! This story shows you another story of a couple of ppl who are struggling to figure out what God has planned for them and learning to stop and listen and waiting and doing All that it takes to keep making the best life for yourself even when you are not sure what the outcome might be. It’s having faith and trust in God and the support of the ones around you. You never can go wrong with a book by Nicole Deese. Your spirit is always lifted as your read her stories. 🥰

I wish I’d enjoyed this book more than I did. For personal reasons, I just don’t tend to enjoy books with plots that rely heavily on pregnancies and this one had much more focus than I had anticipated. I also had trouble connecting with the characters for quite a bit of this novel. I realized about halfway in that there was a book that came earlier than this one in which the characters were introduced, and I would venture a guess that the prior book really helps you connect to the story better. I felt like I was missing something the whole time.

I still did enjoy the redemption story, and it had a really well-done focus on faith. I can see others loving this book more than I did, especially if they read the first book in this companion series. I’d like to read more from this author, as I did definitely feel the emotion and really enjoy reading a romance with mature characters that actually know how to talk about their feelings and problems.

All That It Takes by Nicole Deese is a beautiful, funny, inspirational novel. This book has everything! After reading the first book, I was so excited to pick up this second novel and read about Val. This book did not disappoint! As much as I loved the first book, Val's story was even better, and that really surprised me. Ms Deese writes dialogue that makes the book so entertaining, and you will not be able to put it down. And yet, this book is so much more than just entertaining. This book clearly expresses the importance of each person in making a difference in others' lives. I highly recommend this book. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

All That It Takes is the next chapter featuring multiple characters we were introduced to in All That Really Matters, another of Deese's books that captured my heart. Her books are insightful, witty, fun to read, and beautifully wrapped up in a reflection of Christ.

Val and Miles are secondary characters from the first book that get their own story in All That It Takes. Learning to take leaps of faith (perhaps even when ill-advised...) and move forward after past struggles, I loved that these characters didn't have it all together. How many of us can say we do, either?

Deese writes books that stick with you long after the last page and I couldn't be more excited about seeing what's to come after All That It Takes. There are so many possibilities for the other characters and relationships intertwining with each other that I hope Deese plans on more after this one. It's like a multi-layered cake--it only gets better with each flavor!

Don't miss this one. I would also suggest that it is helpful to read All That Matters first so that you know who is who and why it matters. Quotes like these keep me coming back for more of Deese's work: “Unsure of how to mute the noise in my head and the doubts in my heart. But maybe that was the thing about finding stillness in God – it required nothing and everything, all the same.”

If you're looking for a heartfelt, fun read that you will remember and rave about, All That it Takes is for you.

I was an early reader, thanks to the publisher and #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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I love Nicole's books and how they weave in faith. This book did not disappoint. I loved reading about Val's journey as a single mother. Miles was a great male lead and a solid book boyfriend.

The conflict felt very realistic and real. I also loved the development of the community center and how it played into the story.

"Sometimes all that it takes is one person being willing to step out in love for the betterment of another to change the trajectory of an entire life.”
𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚘𝚗𝚎.

(Swipe to read the book blurb and some of my favorite highlights)

There she goes again!!@nicoledeeseauthor
I am at a complete loss of words about how much this story captured and captivated me

You guys! truly the most amazing thing about books is when I feel seen, touched, and reminded of spiritual truth & scripture that is gifted to humans through God's love

The depth, love, and beauty this book possesses is a delight for every reader's heart, I can vouch for that !!

💗The romance, character growth, plotline, side characters as crucial as the main, so many aspects of life we overlook & underestimated actions...which would be a light to turn the way we see many things and just reading this book made me want to change /pray for change and be better

▶The vulnerability and journey of Miles and Val along with their story will touch & speak into your hearts!!
Imagine reading all this wonderfulness along with lightness that makes you laugh, smile, and grin...A Winning Combo!!

The book may seem to go slow sometimes, but trust keep going, you'll lovee it!!

Tropes :
▶Single mom romance
▶Bestfriend's brother
▶Falling in love with a Pastor
▶Slowburn
▶Contemporary fiction
▶Women group support 💖💖

It was so fun meeting Tucker ( Val's son) & Characters from Book -1, Molly's story 😄💛

I don't want them to end!!
The ending was a bliss💗💖

If you haven't yet read any books by this author...
This is it!!
Your another divine moment with the book assuring that you NEED TO RUN AND GET YOUR COPY!!!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Trigger warning: Teen Pregnancy, abortion

*Thanks to the publisher for providing an e-arc via NetGalley, I wasn't required to give a positive review
All views expressed are my own

Such a great romance story! I love Val and her vulnerabilities as well as Mile’s passion to help others. Tucker is such a sweet addition to the story, and I loved seeing the way that Miles’ relationship developed alongside his relationship with Val. This story had lots of humorous moments, realistic moments and heartwarming moments. I love the way that this story handles the themes of social justice and caring for those in need.

If you love stories with:

💙 boy next door
💙 single mother and her son
💙 women pursuing a career in film
💙 physical disability rep
💙 social justice themes

then this is a book for you!

Many thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.

The author has once again written a book so realistic that you are nodding your head and saying you could see yourself or a family member in the characters.
I will admit after reading her books I feel a sense of goodness,wholesomeness.
Her books will tug at your heartstrings and make you feel like a better person, you will want to make peace and help someone out.
Now her books are not without unresolved issues, there are characters with insecurities,who make mistakes and have flaws. By the books end though these have been resolved with much praying,and emotional and spiritual growth of the characters.
Recommended!

April 5,2022 publish date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Nicole Deese is a master storyteller. While the pace seemed a little slow at the beginning it was well worth the wait for the meat of the story. I loved that Val had a disability. Having two chronic illnesses, myself, I really identified with Val.

I kind of live in the Pacific Northwest ... well sort of; I live in Idaho. I knew some of the places that Ms. Deese used in the story and that's always fun.

I love a book with kids in it and Val's son Tucker was just the best! I loved his ten-year-old antics. Since I don't have a son it was fun reading about them.

The heart of this story is that our story, whatever that may be, has the power to bring healing to someone else which in turn will aid in your healing. I learned that years ago when I saw how sharing my story about my health conditions and the protection I've received from our Heavenly Father gave hope to someone else. It's like that old campfire song we sang at camp "It only takes a spark to get a fire going."

While this can definitely be read as a stand-alone why not read All That Really Matters first and get introduced to Molly, her twin brother Miles, Val, and Silas.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I know when I pick up a Nicole Deese book that I’m in for a well written, heart tugging story with wonderfully relatable characters, humor, and an in depth message. I also know I will need to make room on my keeper shelf!

While I loved all of the main characters, I have to admit that Tucker stole my heart! I loved him and he really added to this story. I also loved how Val and Miles connected from the start and how their relationship grew throughout the story. The growth of both Miles and Val was perfectly done and so believable. The faith message was perfectly woven throughout this story and while their were some tough subjects, Ms. Deese handled them beautifully.

I really enjoyed everything about All That it Takes and while this book is connected to All That Really Matters, you don’t have to read that one first. But, you should definitely read All That Really Matters because it is amazing and Silas is perfection! I highly recommend this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is medium.