Member Reviews
Turn to Me is book 3 in the Misty River Romance series and I highly recommend that you read them in order but they are still so good regardless. I am still thinking about this book because it's that good and I enjoyed that Becky touched on faith, mental health and grief. I loved that Becky Wade included a treasure hunt spin in this story. Cannot stop thinking about Luke and Finley. Everyone needs to read this.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are entirely my own
"'We're all imperfect. We've all made mistakes. Yet Jesus paid for every single one of them.'"
This was such a powerful love story of forgiveness, redemption, hope and grace. Luke Dempsey is one of the Miracle Five, who survived an earthquake on a mission trip during his childhood. However, he lost his brother in the earthquake; and, ever since, he hasn't been able to move past his grief and anger. After being released from prison, he sets out to fulfill a promise to someone who he became friends with in prison- a man who made Luke promise to take care of his daughter, Finley, as she sets out on a final birthday treasure hunt- a tradition between them, but this last one has unique challenges neither of them can foresee. Luke plans to bide his time helping Finley on her birthday search, anxious to leave Misty River and set out on a solitary lifestyle in Montana. However, the more time he spends with Finley, the more she challenges him, causing his dreams to change and making him wonder if maybe there's hope for him and his future.
The characters in this story were so well written. Luke's grumpiness was so fun to read- I laughed out loud several times at his sarcasm. Finley was a different character, and the way her and Luke were together was delightful and so fun to watch their chemistry spark and deepen throughout the story. The way the author wrote their individual journeys to finding peace and grace through the difficult things they had both faced was so moving. The forgiveness and love of the Lord was so well written, and the way it was seen through the story was beautiful. I have been so impressed with this series. Each story has dealt with difficult topics in kind ways, that make them reads that you don't want to put down. I'm sad to see the series end, but know I will revisit Misty River soon!
I began reading Becky Wade’s sweet romances a couple years ago; so when I had the chance to apply for the launch team I immediately hit submit.
Turn to Me is the third book in her Misty River Romance series. If you are like me and haven’t read the first two books, then you should know that this can be read as a standalone. I recommend looking up Stay with Me and Let It Be Me on goodreads, as they both sound like excellent reads. I know I will be reading them in the future soon.
Finley Sutherland is an owner of an animal rescue center who is coping with the recent loss of her father. Upon her father’s death, she finds out that he has left one more birthday treasure hunt for her to find with the help of his fellow ex-jailmate.
Luke Dempsey is an ex-con stuck in his past choices and sufferings. He agrees to keep Finley safe during her treasure hunt, and as a result also helps her develop a website for her booming business.
One would predict this would be a story about helping #freeluke and while that transformation occurs in this story, there is growth among all the characters. In an attempt to not give any spoilers, let me share what I loved most about this story:
Grump and sunshine
Suspense and mystery surrounding the treasure hunt.
An inside look at someone transitioning back into society from jail.
Make sure you grab your copy on May 3rd! Thank you Becky and Bethany House Publishers for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Finally--Luke's story from the "Miracle Five." Finely and Luke are likeable characters and, unlike most of Wade's other novels, this one includes a mystery and danger. A few scenes were written from the unknown-perpetrator's POV, more like a romantic suspense novel. Finely has decided God doesn't want her to date...that is, until meeting Luke has her questioning that idea. As for Luke, readers of the series known he carries grief with him. How can he find a path forward? It's a good read with fun animals, a cast of friends, and danger to boot. Another well-done novel by Becky Wade.
Loved this final journey to Misty River where we finally get Luke's story!
Luke is the epitome of dark and brooding, the mysterious hero with a complicated past as an ex-con who just wants to be left alone. Finley is exactly the silver lining optimist that he doesn't know he needs. Beautifully done grumpy/sunshine trope that comes with a heartwarming story of redemption.
The mystery was so well done and suspense was slowly ratcheted up throughout the book. Definitely a fun whodunit to try to figure out.
Loved seeing the Miracle Five all together - their friendship and loyalty is seriously #lifegoals. Ben's happily ever after story was a bonus surprise and I am SO glad the author included it in the book.
The only thing I didn't like about the book is that it means the series is over, but so happy to have them on my favorites shelf so I can re-read them anytime I want. 4.5 stars and a must-read for any fan of Christian contemporary.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
I have loved each of the installments in the Misty River series and eagerly anticipated Turn to Me. Let me say, I am not at all disappointed! Becky Wade could not have written a better story for Luke. As a reader, I was transported to Misty River and felt as though I was in the middle of the story watching it unfold.
Becky Wade writes all of her books with such depth that even the minor characters are well developed. I know there was a lot to accomplish with Turn to Me being the last book in the series. As a fan of this series and a reader who feels invested in the characters, I could not be more satisfied with Luke’s story and also the way Becky so graciously gave us closure for everyone involved. I love that so much about this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book for review. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I loved this book so much! And not just one love story, but TWO!!!
I’m only sad the series is over. Becky Wade’s books are always phenomenal and this one stands right up there with it.
Turn to Me by Becky Wade is a wonderful conclusion to the Misty River Romance series. As a character, Luke has captured my interest since the beginning of the series and I loved getting to finally read his story. Luke is grumpy and broken and determined to distance himself from others, but Finley refuses to let him stay that way. Through love, kindness, and community, Finley and Luke embark on an adventure together, becoming more through their experiences. I enjoyed this Christian romance with a hint of treasure hunting and can’t wait to see what Wade writes next. This book is a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars for me.
*Thank you to Becky Wade and Bethany House for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I love Becky Wade’s books and Turn to Me has to be a new favorite! In this amazing conclusion to the Misty Rivers series, we finally get Luke’s story. A treasure hunt, mystery, suspense, sizzling romance, cute animals, and funny sarcastic dialogue all expertly woven in with messages of faith and forgiveness kept me eagerly turning those pages.
Absolutely adored Luke! His Han Solo/pirate like bad boy persona with a heart of gold completely captured my heart. Of all the “Miracle Five” childhood survivors of the earthquake that struck on that fateful mission trip to South America, Luke suffered the most. Feeling guilt and blame for his brother’s death, Luke’s life spiraled out of control leading to a stint in prison. After eight years, he’s finally out and trying to adjust to a non-regimented life. He has one promise to fulfill and then he can leave Misty River and escape to his dream house in Montana.
Finley Sutherland is a beautiful, sweet, positive ray of sunshine who believes in the rehabilitation of animals and people. She never thought she’d date again after losing the love of her life, until Luke Dempsey walks in the door of her animal shelter. She’s agreed to hire him straight out of prison to help with the shelter’s website and computer tech needs. Her father served prison time alongside Luke and his final wish was for Luke to help her find the treasure he hid and protect her from those seeking it. As the two hunt for clues and work side by side, it’s hard to ignore the palpable attraction. But will they give in to their feelings or will past heartache ruin their chances?
I loved the romance between Finley and Luke! They are such polar opposites, yet they compliment each other so well. He’s the gruff, grumpy, sarcastic. little rain cloud to her positive, sunny, free spirit. Loved their sizzling kisses and heartfelt conversations. The sarcastic dialogue had me laughing out loud. I especially enjoyed Luke’s complaining over taking care of a troublesome little puppy. The puppy loves him and he secretly loves her back.
The treasure hunt was fun and I was right there alongside Finley and Luke waiting to see where each clue would lead. The actual treasure was a complete surprise and the suspense really ratchets up when they finally figure out where and what it is. There’s also a side romance between Ben and Akira, an employee at the shelter, which added some lightheartedness to the story. After suffering disappointment in the second book, it was fun seeing Ben find love again. Akira is such a delightful character who tends to blurt out her feelings in the best way.
If you love pirate like heroes with a secret tender heart, sweet yet sizzling romance, a little suspense, and beautiful messages of hope and forgiveness, you’ll love this book! Fans of the series will enjoy seeing the other ‘Miracle Five” survivors and catching up with them. If you haven’t read the series, don’t worry, it can definitely be read as a standalone. There’s enough backstory so new readers will enjoy the story. Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book. Highly recommend to those who love Christian fiction and romance. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review. 4 1/2 stars.
Content: Recommend to a more mature audience. Brief discussions of intimacy, underage drinking/drug use, some violence/murder.
Turn to Me is the third and final book in Becky Wade's Misty Rivers trilogy. These books follow the Miracle Five, a group of five men and women who, years ago, survived an earthquake while on a mission trip. Turn to Me features Luke Dempsey, the last of the Miracle Five, who is being released from jail and is on a mission to fulfill his promise to a dying man. Doing so puts him in the orbit of Finley Sutherland. While Luke is surly, distrusting, and intimidating, Finley is selfless, optimistic, and big-hearted. Their relationship definitely fits the sunshine-and-grump trope, but both natures are needed in order to solve Finley's father's final treasure hunt, especially when that hunts proves dangerous.
I've loved all of Becky Wade's books, and Turn to Me is no exception. I've been looking forward to getting Luke's story, and it doesn't disappoint. While the others of the Miracle Five have suffered in their own ways because of the traumatic event in their past, Luke suffered the most; his younger brother, Ethan, was on the trip with the group, but he didn't survive the earthquake. Luke has always blamed himself for Ethan's death, and that guilt led him to make a series of bad decisions that eventually landed him in jail. Now that he's out, he wants nothing more than to get as far away from Misty River as possible, but he first has to help Finley on her treasure hunt.
Finley is a shining light of a heroine. While she has suffered her own horrible tragedy, she's chosen to continue to see the good in everything and everyone, and her kindness affects everyone around her. Even Luke isn't immune, as much as he wishes to be. As the two work together on the treasure hunt, they learn about each other's past and begin to trust one another, and I enjoyed learning more about the little things that make them tick. Of course, there's a budding romance between the two, and you know what there will be an HEA, but there are some real obstacles that make you think it's possible that Wade may go off the rails and give a different ending. Luke definitely has a lot of issues to work through, and even Finley may not be enough to assuage his guilt and get him to admit his feelings.
The treasure hunt aspect was a lot of fun. I loved that it was a tradition for Finley and her father, and I liked that this was a way for her to connect with him even after his death. The clues were specific to Finley, so it's not like the reader could figure things out in advance like a traditional whodunnit mystery, but that doesn't make the hunt any less fun. I had no idea what the actual treasure at the end of the hunt would be, and I would never have guessed it even once I found out. Needless to say, it's definitely a real treasure hunt, and the danger is plenty real. Luckily Finley has pirate prince Luke to protect her.
I also really appreciated that Wade wrapped up Ben's story! After his heartbreak in the previous book, I couldn't help but wonder how things would turn out for Ben--he's such a sweet guy and deserves the world!--so I really enjoyed reading his romance and the lightness his narrative brought to what was otherwise a pretty heavy plot.
Turn to Me is a wonderful finale to this trilogy. Luke and Finely are polar opposites, but opposites definitely attract in this case! The treasure hunt keeps the plot moving, and the focus on guilt, redemption, and forgiveness serve as solid reminders to not let our guilt overshadow God's forgiveness.
this book just wasn't for me. I wasn't able to fully get into it and enjoy it and put it down at about 15-20%
It took me awhile to really fall in love with Turn To Me because of the characters’ dialogue. Once I viewed it more like a Gilmore Girls dialogue, I fell in love with Becky Wade’s newest novel.
Finley was introduced to Luke through a birthday treasure hunt that her dad created for her before he died in prison. Through that and the animal shelter where they both work, Finley and Luke strike up a friendship that ultimately turns into love.
Finley is quirky and compassionate. Luke, an ex-con who was friends with Finley’s dad, is uptight and abrupt. They couldn’t be more opposite. But, as the saying goes, “Opposites attract” and that’s exactly what happened.
“Your faithlessness doesn’t affect God’s faithfulness. None of the love He has for you is conditional.”
Becky Wade’s books always transport me right into the setting of the story. She is a master at creating colorful, realistically-flawed, but engaging characters and plopping them down in captivating settings and circumstances. I love the growth and change her characters go through during the story. The Misty River Romance series has been so fascinating. I’ve enjoyed seeing the “Miracle Five” as they’ve matured and the effect the miraculous rescue had on their lives. Luke’s story is especially touching, as he was profoundly affected by his brother’s death and had made some bad choices as a youth.
“Without his permission, his brain had chosen her as its screensaver setting.”
Finley is likeable and spunky and wants to help Luke forgive himself for his past. I enjoyed seeing the changes in them as their relationship grows and develops. With themes of forgiving yourself and others and seeing the good in other people, this book was a joy to read. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Turn to Me is my favorite fiction read so far this year! Becky Wade wrapped up this series on a delightful high note!
Luke’s character is raw and real. His thoughts expressed silently and verbally are entertaining such as “I wish I could take all your advice,” Luke said calmly, “strap it to a firework rocket, launch the thing into the sky, and then watch it explode." He also shows his very broken side and you can empathize with him. "You remind me of the worst day of my life. So I don't see how contact between us could be for my benefit."
I didn’t connect with Finley as much, but appreciated when she told Luke, “Stop trying to earn forgiveness for your sins. They've already been forgiven. It's done!
I enjoyed the sweet romance full of kisses and the mystery of the treasure hunt!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions in this review are my own.
The latest book from Becky Wade, Turn to Me, has officially released! It marks the third book in the Misty River Romance series and tells the story of Luke Dempsey of the “Miracle Five” from the first two books. This story does work as a stand alone though, even though it weaves in characters from previous novels. I read the first two books in the series but I believe it would make sense if I had not as well.
Luke made a promise to a fellow inmate during his time in prison that he could take care of the man’s daughter if/when he passed. Now that he’s out of jail and the inmate is gone, Luke sets out to fulfill this promise, finding Finley Sutherland not at all what he expected. About his same age, a business owner, and on a dangerous treasure hunt set in motion by her dad’s will, Finley is in more trouble than she realizes with her optimistic nature. Will the two be able to get along well enough to stay safe and find the treasure?
This was a little less light-hearted of a treasure-hunt story than it may seem to be, but it was still a thrilling read that kept me hooked. I appreciated the topics Wade chose to touch on and how it wasn’t a light and fluffy Hallmark type of romance, but one that came across as real and hard but no less beautiful. The characters were easy to connect with and it was a great addition to the series. I would recommend it if you’re looking for a good book this summer!
Thank you to Bethany House publishers and Net Galley for providing me with an electronic copy of this book to read and review; all opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.
*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.*
This book continues the story of the Miracle Five, focusing in on Luke and Ben. Luke had the hardest time recovering from the trauma because he feels the weight of his brother's death on his shoulders every day. Now out of prison, he's promised to help Finley out with a treasure hunt her deceased father left for her.
I enjoyed many things about this book. I loved how Ben and Akira weren't finding anything romantic about the situations they found themselves in. That made me laugh. I liked how Luke responded to Agatha, the dog. I enjoyed seeing Luke and Finley trying to figure out the clues to the treasure hunt. I always love a redemption story and seeing Luke embrace family, friends, faith, and life was rewarding.
The one part I struggled with is Finley. It didn't feel authentic when she said she was "Going for" a certain look. I didn't like that she had a five step rehabilitation plan for Luke...like that was her place. She seemed a little "new agey" at times. She even used the term "my truth" which I hate. However, I did like that she didn't judge Luke for his past. I appreciated her care for the animals. I liked her relationship with her dad. So she was a mixed bag for me.
I enjoyed the mystery and seeing it all come to fruition. I liked seeing relationships restored and forgiveness embraced. I'd recommend this book. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Turn to Me is a slam dunk. Like and Finley were hilarious together. It was adorable seeing Ben’s side plot as well. The banter, tension, and one liners were excellent.
I especially loved the faith and the mental health within these characters. Trauma is real and panic is real and it’s ok to need someone’s help to get through them.
There was serious sexual tension that was just enough but not inappropriate for my comfort level. But do know that Luke is rough around the edges when it comes to how he expresses his physical attraction for Finley. Finley is strong to her convictions though, which I loved.
The mystery with Finley’s dad was cheesy but I really enjoyed it still. Why not have fun with a story while being as realistic as you can too?
I’d still say Stay with Me is my favourite of the 3 books, but of course I rated them all 5 stars so that’s nothing against book 2&3!
Turn to Me is the third book in Becky Wade’s Misty River series. It is a standalone, but why would you miss out on reading other Becky Wade books in the Misty River Series? In Turn to Me we meet Luke who is grumpy and brooding. We are privileged to watch him transform in the story. He is one of the elusive members of the Miracle Five who all survived an earthquake in their teens. Finley loves animals and runs a dog rescue. She loves saving and fixing animals and also people. The humor between Finley’s free spirit and Luke’s broody self had me laughing and signing. Their dialogue is amazing, and I loved the chemistry between them.
I felt like I was transported into the story and was walking beside the characters. Finley's friends and co-workers were so funny. If you followed along with Ben's story from the previous novels you will get to see his happy ending as well.
Turn to Me has depth, mystery, suspense, and incredible romance. The author takes you on a journey to watch the characters transform and become who they were meant to be. The themes of redemption, second chances, and forgiving yourself resonated deeply with me. Definitely one of my top reads of 2022. I cannot recommend Turn to Me highly enough.
I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.
Turn to Me by Becky Wade is the third and final book in the Misty River Romance series. While this is my first book in the series, the author did well to keep me in the story—I barely had any disconnects. Still, I plan to read the first two books. I enjoyed the treasure-hunt component and I’d love to learn more about the “Miracle Five’s” other characters.
The mystery element was lock-in throughout the book, and I loved that, too.
Finley and Luke’s steamy kissing episodes were respectful, yet, well, definitely steamy. Lots of sexual tension.
However, there seemed to be mixed messages about “meditation” vs. Biblical meditation, especially since Finley purposely chose a more “hippie” lifestyle and vocabulary. Having been a participant in Transcendental Meditation before I came to faith, there is a difference—big difference. The author’s differentiating between the two seemed a bit fuzzy to me.
As I said, the treasure hunt aspect was great. No spoilers as to whether they found the treasure.
Overall, I recommend this book for lovers of romance, mystery, unique characters, animal lovers, and treasure hunts. Content Warning: Those steamy kissing scenes may raise the minimum reader age to 16 or older.
I received a complimentary advanced eBook from Bethany House Fiction via #NETGALLEY for my honest review. #TURNTOME
I love how I can pick up a Becky Wade book, and know that I’m in for an amazing read. This final book in the Misty River Romance series held everything I love about Inspirational Romance. Interesting characters, unique settings, faith elements, and chemistry galore between the hero and heroine. But more than that, I was struck at how Becky Wade has a way of bringing biblical truths to light in a way that I’d never considered. This book ministered to me in the same way that one of her previous books, Falling for You, did. Becky’s writing is a blessing.