Last year, I discovered Nicole Deese after having a book of hers recommended to me over and over. Well, now I’m the one doing the recommending!

All That It Takes is a tremendous book. Tremendous. It’s the kind of story that reaches into your heart and gives you things to think about in your real life… and introduces you to fictional characters you wish were part of your real life. This story is a sequel to the truly outstanding All That Really Matters, and while this one stands on its own, there’s a special reward for those who read them in order, fully understanding Val’s journey and transformation on the pages of All That It Takes.

Val and Miles’ story is special and unique and intricately layered with emotion from past scars, internal uncertainty, external conflicts, and beautiful resolution. Prepare to fall in love with Val (if you didn’t already for her heart and friendship with Molly from the first book), 10 year old Tucker (who steals every scene he graces), and sweet, wonderful, flawed-yet-still-absolutely-perfect Miles.

Prepare to root for Val’s dreams, hope it doesn’t take Miles too long figure out everything, laugh at Tucker’s inability to keep a secret, want to hug Carlee, wish you could video chat with Lady Gwen, and overall practically burst with every kind of joyful, heartbreaking, and heartfelt emotion.

Not only does Nicole Deese deliver a skillfully crafted story wrought with emotion and unforgettable characters, she summons deep introspection in the hearts of her readers. Am I a good neighbor and friend? What is God calling me to that might be different than what I thought? How do our comfort zones hold us back? And the beautiful reminder that even though we might now always see it, sometimes all that it takes is one person/moment/caring conversation to change a life.

Applause and all the stars for this shining example of what Christian Fiction is supposed to be.

I was so grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book for review from NetGalley and Bethany House. My opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.