Stay with Me

“Kissing Gen would be like playing with a stick of lit dynamite.”

Stay with Me, the first installment in award-winning author Becky Wade’s Misty River Romance series, is guaranteed to be a hit with fans of contemporary romance. With powerful authenticity and deep realism, Becky Wade pens a heartwarming tale of unexpected love, while also tacking difficult topics that are extremely relevant in today’s society.

Genevieve Woodward returns to her hometown after receiving a disturbing letter hinting at secrets from her family’s past when she meets Sam Turner. Genevieve reminds Sam of all the pain he is trying to forget from his own past, but their lives continue to intersect as their relationship develops from “one notch above strangers” to possibly something more.

While becoming invested in Sam and Genevieve’s developing relationship, readers will also be introduced to the other members of the “Miracle Five” who, along with Genevieve, survived a devastating earthquake 18 years earlier while on a junior high mission trip. Their flashbacks bring an additional layer of authenticity to the present-day storyline. I was especially drawn to Luke’s heartbreaking story via the flashbacks, and I hope that readers will have the opportunity to learn more of his backstory as the series continues. “As always when she thought of Luke, sorrow, love and guilt knotted her stomach.”

Becky Wade shares the message of God’s grace and truth even when we feel undeserving of His incredible gifts. Stay with Me is highly recommended for readers of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy books by authors such as Denise Hunter, Courtney Walsh and Susan May Warren. Stay with Me will definitely be on my list of Top 10 Books of 2020.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

“The things we’ve experienced are always a part of us.”

Such a good book!
A very emotional story.... Four important story threads 1. Is about an earthquake that five middle schoolers on a mission trip survived 2. Sam and Kayden. relationship. 3. Genevieve and Sam. 4. Genevieve's parents and their secret from the past.
The setting is perfect, a small southern town.
I loved the characters and their separate spiritual journeys. It gave me goose bumps when they each let God direct their paths.
Truely one of the best books I've read.


I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of the book.

I'm sitting here in that happy/sad place when you've finished an amazing book like Stay with Me by Becky Wade. You're so satisfied with the ending, but also so sad that story has come to an end.

Stay With Me’s main characters are Genevieve, a Bible study writer and a person with secrets, and Sam, an Australian farmer living in Georgia. It's a beautiful love story with wonderful kisses, heartfelt moments, some mystery, and enough humor to keep you laughing and smiling. But most importantly, Becky Wade reminds us that our God is big, He loves us so very deeply, and that grace and redemption are part of His eternal plan. She encourages us to live in the light of God our Father and not in the shadows. My heart will never be the same.

I've so enjoyed my time in Misty River, Georgia reading Stay with Me. My only consolation to finishing the book is knowing that I will get to revisit Misty River in future books by Becky Wade.

I highly highly recommend Stay With Me and promise you that your faith will grow and your heart will be happy when you read it.
I was given a copy of this book by publisher and not required to write a review

I’m sitting here with tears, trying to process all the layers of this amazing story.
So much pain. Hope. Redemption. Forgiveness. Love.

This story pretty much had me hooked from page 1. (I had already read the prequel novella, Take a Chance on Me, and knew that I loved this series, so I didn't really have a chance... :) )

Gen is thrown into Sam's life in a most unconventional way. He does what he can to get rid of her. Because he's sure she's everything he doesn't need to be involved in.

But she keeps popping up.
And they get to know each other.

Gen is convinced that his little cottage is the perfect living space for her.

I really enjoyed all the tension that happens between these two. So much going on.

Gen was a very intriguing character. I wanted to dislike her and all that she'd been doing. But, in spite of myself, I found myself rooting for her.

She was living proof that there is always hope.

This book, this story, is full of hope. Of love coming after deep pain.

I also liked the bit of mystery, suspense, that was woven into this story. Rather unsurprising, some of the turn of events. It kept me reading until the end.

I can't wait to get to know more of the people from this delightful town.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Stay with Me is the first book in Becky Wade’s Misty River series and it is not to be missed!
The story begins with Gen (who I really didn’t like until later) and the odd but true way she meets Sam. She is a Christian author and speaker whose secret life is spiraling out of control. “she’d misplaced God somehow”. Sam is a man who had experienced great sorrow and is living in self-protect mode. But “Regardless of weakness, in God’s strength he could do the one thing within his ability. He could stay.”
The book is filled with romance, self-examination, realizations, faith and intrigue. Becky did a superb job of intertwining them all. I love how she writes! It is a beautiful lesson in faith and the romantic tension builds wonderfully sprinkled with spine tingling kisses and deep longing.
There are secrets, lies, shame and past history. It is often real and raw. There is wrestling with trying to be perfect, feeling undeserving of God’s gifts and wondering what He expects of us. It is a great beginning to this series which makes me anxious for more! I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Regardless of his weakness, in God's strength he could do the one thing within his ability.
He could stay.

Becky Wade's Misty River series kicks off with a magnificent story of faith, grace, and love. "Stay With Me" tackles major issues facing our society today, primarily addiction and its aftermath, in a way that is so astoundingly eloquent it is nearly impossible to put the book down.

Wade knows just how to intertwine elements of faith, romance, and intrigue it is almost painfully beautiful. The reader is completely entranced by the story from the first pages, and it is difficult to see it end.

Genevieve and Sam are achingly irresistible protagonists, with struggles and emotions any reader can relate to. Their journeys are portrayed so the reader is constantly engaged and, by the end, is infinitely inspired.

It is going to be so hard to wait for the rest of the series to release, as Wade has already set up impossibly absorbing storylines, including a love triangle and an imprisoned hero. The background of the main characters as natural disaster survivors weaves a complex web of guilt, gratefulness, and hope that already sets this series up as one you absolutely cannot miss.

"Stay With Me" is tear-jerking, inspirational, and unmissable. Grab a copy as soon as you're able!

Disclaimer: I received a free advance copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I was not obligated to write a positive review.

STAY WITH ME is the first book in the Misty River Romance series by BECKY WADE. It is a beautifully told romance with a good Christian message, interesting characters and a bit of suspense to keep you guessing.
I love the way rhis author describes her characters' emotions and struggles, really drawing us into the story.
Genevieve Woodward is a highly successful Christian author and speaker, but she has never got over a traumatic experience when she was twelve and feels she has to work hard to show her gratitude to the Lord for saving her life. She is well known and well liked.
Sam Turner is also hurting and, although he runs a successful restaurant and farm, he keeps to himself by choice.
When he finds her asleep in his guesthouse all kinds of alarm bells start ringing.
Genevieve is close to her older sister, Natasha, and the two women work together to see what it is in their parents' past that has led to Genevieve being sent a threatening note.
I am not going to tell you any more of the story, except to say that there are some serious matters involved, but through it all we see the Lord at work bringing redemption out of chaos.
I really recommend Stay With Me as a most enjoyable and heartwarming read.
I am looking forward to the next novel in the series.
I was given a free copy of the book by Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own

In my humble opinion this is Wade's best work. I was riveted from the first page. I couldn't put it down. The characters are wonderful, the story-line is gripping and, the inspirational message is one every heart needs to hear. I laughed out loud. I cried tears of joy. The ending is beautiful and I am blessed to have read it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher and this is my honest opinion.

This book was gut wrenching in the best possible way. I love Becky Wade's books and once I get the email from amazon saying she has a new book coming out I immediately start stalking Netgalley to see when it will be available to read! So I was PUMPED when this book hit netgalley! I will say this is not your normal binge read book. It was more like a bible study for me, meaning that I felt like I needed to read some of it. Then put it down and think over what I had read. I needed to digest it a bit.. It wasn't just an entertaining book, but it gave me alot to think about. I applaud Ms.Wade for writing about things that maybe most Christians don't want to talk about. But drug addiction is real, and yes, even Christians face it. I really appreciated learning about what the character was going through with her addiction, how she got into it, and what it felt like to her, why she liked it, ect. It gave me insight that will hopefully make me be a more compassionate and helpful person to anyone I come in contact with that struggles with addiction.

Becky Wade crafts masterful characters who are truly hurting. In her latest novel, Stay With Me, which also happens to be the introduction to her new Misty River Series, Wade's heroine struggles with pain pill addiction throughout majority of the novel. Wade made her struggles realistic and haunting. As someone who has personally never seen someone go through withdrawal but read books and watched movies with this type of scene, I believe Wade did a good job at allowing Genevieve succeed but still crave the pills. The romance is enduring and formulaic for the fans of contemporary romance. The plot was different and captured my attention from the first page. I really liked the side story that Natasha and the heroine worked on. I was curious what the messages meant to. Overall, Stay with Me by Becky Wade has hauntingly realistic hurt characters who work through their struggles to find purpose and love for their loves. A definite must-read for fans of Wade's other works and contemporary romance fans.

I received a complimentary copy of Stay With Me by Becky Wade from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Becky Wade never disappoints! This book is one of her best in my opinion. It deals with super hard topics but is still has the fun elements that make her books great. As always the romance was superb and Sam was a heartthrob and will be at the top of my list of hero’s. Make sure to read this book. It is well worth it.

I was given an advance copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is a first by this author for me. I really enjoyed Genevieve and Sam’s story. They meet with a very strange first encounter and Sam’s property. The story takes off from there. Good read!!

In the first full-length novel in Becky Wade's new Misty River series, we get a look at characters who are flawed and struggling, dealing with real issues. I loved gruff Sam from the get-go; it took me a little longer to actually like Gen, but even while she grated on me a little, I did appreciate her journey. For both characters, I really enjoyed seeing how they had to apply their faith to real-life situations and figure out how they were getting in their own way and needed to trust God to truly help them. I also liked seeing their blossoming relationship; I love good banter between romantic leads, and there were some really great lines in this book.
Based on the cover, this might seem like a fluffy romance, but there's a lot of depth. There's also a lot of hope and great messages about introspection, forgiveness, redemption, and more--but without ever being preachy.
Great start to a new series!
4 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.

Wade tackles difficult subjects in this book and handles it beautifully. Sam was an amazing hero albeit often reluctantly. Gen might be the most flawed heroine I've ever read.

I think I loved this book because it was a romance, but not just between Sam and Gen - but also between God and Gen and God and Sam. I loved how they both grew closer to God throughout this book in spite of their flaws and struggles. But don't get me wrong, the romance between Sam and Gen was spectacular as well and there are some great kisses.

This book has a touch of mystery to it as well and as Gen searched for this secret it was neat to tag along and figure it out. It was also interesting to read how the past shaped so much of her life. I was really impressed with her ability to have hard conversations.

I don't feel like I've done this book justice with this review, but I don't want to give anything away! I highly recommend it!

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Stay with Me is one fantastic redemption story! I've read all Becky Wade's books and I consider this her finest book yet.

Genevieve Woodard has a cheerful effervescent personality and quite the unique job for a 30 year old as a well known Bible study teacher and speaker. She meets her polar opposite in brooding, no nonsense restaurant and farm owner Sam Turner. Both characters have serious issues to overcome and it makes for quite the story. As it all unfolds, I could not have been more mesmerized or captivated. The connection between the two was full of ups and downs, but the romantic tension sizzled.

"He wasn't built for superficial dating relationships. He was wired for serious love and commitment. Kissing Gen would be like playing with a stick of dynamite."

The questions surrounding the mysterious letters Gen has been receiving added another surprising dimension to the Woodward family dynamics. Readers get an amazing romance and an intriguing suspense all in one.

On a side note, I do wish a few references to rap and hip hop songs hadn't been called by specific title and artists, as it wasn't really believable a Bible study teacher would be listening to songs with such profanity.

I love Wade's sense of humor and her quick-witted banter between Gen and Sam was first class. The Grace and Truth inspirational element that was brought to light was nothing short of stunning. Stay with Me has been Becky Wade's strongest book when it comes to revealing divine truth and I just had to sit and let it soak in.

"She could not pay Him Back. And Praise God for that. Praise God! Because that meant she could stop trying so hard."

Stay with Me is on my Best Books of 2020 list. With several future book scenarios being introduced, I can't wait to read the next installment in the Misty River series. I appreciate Bethany House via Netgalley making a copy of Stay with Me available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

I really enjoyed this novel that digs into the felt need to maintain a facade that all is well, even when it isn't. Add in layers of sweet romance and a family mystery that could pull a family apart, and it was a book I couldn't stay away from. Another great read from one of my favorite contemporary romance authors.

Stay With Me by Becky Wade is an excellent tale of intrigue, romance, and faith to introduce her new series, Misty River Romance. I have read some of Ms. Wade's previous writings and have greatly enjoyed them.  The Bradford Sister Series by Ms. Wade was my first taste of her lively and wholesome writings, and when I had the opportunity to read Stay With Me, I was delighted and enjoyed it, of course!  Some of my favorite features of Ms. Wade's writings are her undeniably believable yet complex situations, her utterly human characters, as well as the depth of emotion, struggle, and growth that her characters deal with.
I particularly liked Stay With Me because of the very real and hard struggles that the two main characters endured--loss of a loved one to addiction and the struggle to overcome an addiction. I also greatly enjoyed the main character, Genevieve Woodward, not only a unique and perfect name for her personality, but a very relatable person for all readers. Genevieve had endured tragedy early on in her life, yet had overcome it and turned to God for help. However, after other events in her life, Genevieve turned to the dangerous but sly relief of pain medicine, leaving her months later completely unaware of her destructiveness. Genevieve returns to her hometown to deal with a very mysterious and threatening letter she received which makes her question her parents' perfect past.  On her way home to her parents' home, Genevieve finds herself waking up in a strange cabin with a highly suspicious and confused farm owner staring down at her. Sam Turner is shocked at the intruder sleeping in the worn-down farm cottage on his property, even more so when he realizes Genevieve's deeply held secret addiction. He has dealt with drug addicts in the past and clearly sees that Genevieve needs help. Sam doesn't want to get involved, but knows that if Genevieve doesn't seek help immediately, her destructive habits will become deadly to her or someone else. Sam Turner enjoys his solitude and his well-organized and disciplined life. When Genevieve sees this incident as a wake-up call, she turns to Sam for help, asking him to let her detox in his cabin away from her family and friends, keeping her addiction a secret. Sam doesn't want to add more sorrow and grief, not to mention, irritation and trouble to his life, but he cannot refuse to help someone in need.
Sam and Genevieve develop a terse bond of acquaintanceship (not quite friendship;) throughout Genevieve's detox, which shows Genevieve how truly giving, caring, and sweet Sam is as he checks in on her and holds her accountable.  Both Sam and Genevieve begin to care for one another, but are stubbornly opposed to each other for different reasons, leading them down a long road of friendship and comedic miscommunications.  Along with Genevieve's physical struggles, she also deals with sleuthing into her parents' past to discover the truth.  Can Genevieve overcome her addiction? Will Sam ever open up and allow himself to enjoy life?  Can Genevieve discover what really happened in her parents' early lives?  Will Genevieve and Sam be able to survive their friendship or romantic interest?  I would highly recommend Stay With Me if you are looking for a lighthearted, faith-filled, wholesome, intriguing, and adventurous read.

Disclaimer: Bethany House Publishers graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

Becky Wade is headed up there on my list of favorite contemporary romance authors! I picked this one up because the themes intrigued me, and for the most part, I was not disappointed!

The story starts out with one of Wade's iconic meet-cutes. Awkward, somewhat hilarious, altogether adorable yet cringe-worthy in the most realistic way. I greatly enjoyed the prequel novella to the series, so I already had a brief introduction to our main character, Sam Turner. From that brief introduction, I knew I was going to love his character, and I did! I love the way Genevieve was able to win him from his taciturn ways and his desire to help her. I love the contrast of his character--tough farmer dude, yet tenderhearted, a very talented cook, and a healthy-eating nerd.

Genevieve was a very realistic character and I found myself relating to her a lot. Her character had a myriad of dichotomies, which is what made her so fascinating--and still relatable. I appreciate how Wade didn't entirely gloss over her withdrawal process, but still didn't go deeply into it. I find it hard to empathize with the character when such a pivotal time in their life is completely glossed over and boom, she's just fine!

The mystery woven throughout the plot was fascinating and I didn't want to put the book down until I reached the conclusion. The themes of forgiveness and mercy and grace were absolutely beautiful and spun throughout without being shoehorned in or cliche. Wade is not afraid to shy away from deep themes, which is perhaps why I love her books so much.

Overall, I greatly enjoyed Becky Wade's newest contribution to the contemporary romance genre! Inspirational, realistic, and deeply moving, this isn't one you'll want to miss!


FTC Disclosure; I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Netgalley for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

Sam Turner discovers a real-life Goldilocks sleeping on the bare bed in his guest cottage. When he finds pills in her purse, he immediately suspects she suffers from the same thing Kayden did—an opioid addiction. He wants nothing more than to get her off his property. A few days later she shows up again, this time, asking to rent and renovate his cottage. Reluctantly, he agrees—as long as she commits to his rules. No more Oxy, counseling, telling someone else, and not falling in love with him.

Genevieve Woodward came home to Misty River for two reasons—to ask her parents about a mysterious letter she received and to quit Oxy cold-turkey. Either thing could tank her career as a best-selling Bible study author and public speaker. When she wakes up in a stranger’s guest cottage, it only confirms her need to quit Oxy.

After spending a day with her overprotective mom, Genevieve knows she can’t keep her addiction secret while staying with her parents. She decides to convince the enigmatic Sam Turner to rent his cottage to her. He drives a hard bargain, but she senses he’ll hold her accountable—something she desperately needs. Once she makes it through the worst of withdrawal, she’ll tackle the other problem—uncovering the mystery behind the threatening letter.

Why I Love this Book

Wade has a beautiful way of crafting stories full of romance, deep spiritual truths, and humor. The well-developed characters have relatable struggles, and in Stay with Me, Wade tackles a problem that, statistically, thousands of Christians face. But no one wants to talk about—opioid drug addiction.

Wade takes the time to delve into the backstory of why a Christian leader (or anyone else), could turn to painkillers. Through Genevieve, Sam, and Kayden, she shows readers how best to tackle addiction or support someone who struggles. We have to trust God with our truth—no matter how sordid and tattered—in order to receive his grace.

The first book in the Misty River Romance series, Stay with Me will draw you in and keep you reading from the first page to the last.

Stay with Me tells the story of women's Bible study author Genevieve who is addicted to Oxycontin. When Genevieve receives a mysterious letter threatening her family, she returns to her Ridge Mountains hometown in hopes of solving the mystery. As she continues to struggle with her personal addiction, coffee-shop owner Sam forces her to face her addiction. Stay with Me shares not only Genevieve's struggle as she combats her addiction, but also the path to solve her family's mystery. Meanwhile, she & Sam develop an unusual friendship as they both battle memories from the past that have shaped each of them into the adult they have become. Great story. Very realistic, never sugarcoating the struggle of an addiction, but also providing hope and showing the value of truth against all odds. This is also an incredible story of God's grace and forgiveness in the midst of seemingly unapproachable obstacles. GREAT story!

Wow! This book took me on an emotional roller coaster-in a good way. This book had it all mystery, romance, personal struggles and an uplifting message. Gen is a successful Christian author and speaker but her life is out of balance and in the grip of opioid addiction. Sam is a loner trapped by guilt but a nurturer by nature. God brings Gen and Sam together--just like the caravan in Joseph's story--and the journey is such a wonderful gift to witness. The message of Grace was presented in such a beautiful, powerful way. I can't wait to read about the other Miracle Five!

This book has it all!!! Heartbreak, loss, healing, mystery, murder, miracles, love, swoon worthy moments, a hunk of an Australian man, and a beautiful message of grace from God. I love Becky Wade's books. She is fabulous! This book is no exception! It kept me reading and thinking and feeling. Can't wait for more books in the Misty River Series!!!

Oh how I love a good Becky Wade romance. They are absolutely swoon-worthy and irresistible. The character are always relatable and the plot flows beautifully.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

Gen awakens in a cottage on Sam’s property, with no recollection of how she arrived there. Sam discovers Gen’s secret and from the get-go convinces himself to remain as he has, isolated and alone.

The two characters must work through their past, and attraction to each other causes sparks to fly. Their experiences have shaped them, but can they trust the Lord to guide their future?

This is a must read! Every year, I mark my calendar for Becky Wade’s newest release. And every year, I am so sad when I’ve finished reading her newest book, because they are SO GOOD! Stay With Me is a beautiful story that has the reader searching their heart and staying up past their bedtime!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Becky Wade's "Stay with Me" is a sweet story about two people who find a path to healing. Both are broken. Both are dealing with fallout and baggage in their lives. I enjoyed the characters who deal not only with past issues, but the ongoing issues of addiction. How does one convey their faith even through their brokenness? How does one choose to take a risk to love over being alone? Wade explores these themes through the eyes of her hero and heroine, Sam and Genevieve. I enjoyed the emotions, the story world, and the cautious relationship the two developed.

I love Becky Wade's writing, so I was thrilled to get the chance to read an early copy of Stay With Me. As usual, she didn't disappoint! Stay with Me tells the story of Genevieve, a bubbly Bible study writer and Oxytocin addict, and Sam Turner, a taciturn organic farmer. Their paths cross when Genevieve falls asleep in his guesthouse in an Oxy-fueled haze. At first, they clash but they eventually reach a deal that Genevieve can rent his guesthouse if she fights to stay clean of Oxy. Over the next few months, they grow closer as Gen fights her addiction and looks into her family's questionable past. Sam and Gen get closer and Gen learns about his past with an ex-girlfriend who died of a painkiller addiction. The story is full of hope and grace and honesty and shines a light into the flaws that we all share.

The good:
Becky Wade's writing is snappy and sweet and she knows how to write romance. I love the honesty that she showed about the characters' fallibility. I also absolutely loved Sam--he's the perfect love interest. Even though the book crosses into the preachy at times, the truths are eternal and for the most part presented in a way that's relatable.

The bad:
I didn't absolutely love Genevieve's personality. The whole Instagram star, southern Belle, interior designer character was not super relatable for me, but she was well written. I also found the mini-chapters dispersed throughout the story following the "Miracle Five" distracting. We didn't need those little snippets to follow what hpapened to them and I would have preferred if they hadn't been included.

This was a great book and a solid four star read--highly recommended to those who enjoy a sweet romance and relatable (and not preachy) Christian fiction.

The best way to describe Stay With Me is to say it’s a gloriously, lovely book. I’ve read all of Becky Wade’s books, but I can say this is one of her best if not the best. I refrain from saying it’s the best because I still think My Stubborn Heart and True to You are two of the best books ever written in the Christian Romance genre, so I’m going to put Stay With Me in a three-way tie. Wade has created these beautiful rich characters in her latest that will stay with you for a long time. I laughed out loud throughout, totally enjoyed the little mystery in the story, and fell in love with Sam Turner. At the end of the book, I literally wept, not because it was sad, but because it was such a beautiful story. Gracious, I still get a little choked up just thinking about it.  There aren’t enough stars for this book. It’s absolutely fantastic.

This is the first book in the Misty Rivers series and it sets up the series quite nicely! There is a difficult story line in this book and Becky Wade approaches it delicately and yet confidently. I will be honest and say that it took me a good bit to get into this story but I am glad that I kept going and got involved into the lives of these characters.
Sam is not your typical contemporary romance hero. In fact, just leave him alone and let him have order in his life. Gen is not your typical heroine in that she is Miss Perfect and full of life on the outside but harboring a deep secret on the inside. These 2 complete opposites make for a tough relationship. But oooh, parts of this relationship are totally swoon worthy!

Becky Wade has done it again! This is a story about an Aussie farmer/restaurant owner named Sam and an American Bible study author Gen who both come to terms with their Own issues about themselves. The romance was super sweet and swoony (those kisses!) I loved how Sam wanted to help Gen with her issues even at the beginning when he hardly knew her. He was a great hero. Gen was a great heroine, too. Christian messages about forgiveness and God loving us unconditionally was nice, too. There’s also a mystery woven in this story that has a surprising twist.

I recommend this book!

“Like Papa Bear in the Goldilocks story, Sam Turner had discovered a strange woman sleeping in the bed of a house he owned.” - Opening line of “Stay with Me” by Becky Wade

Becky Wade strikes a beautiful balance in “Stay with Me”, book one of the Misty River Romance series, of serious discussion and laugh-out-loud humour, From the outset, Sam, our Australian leading man, struggles with Genevieve, our leading lady, inserting herself into his life, his farm and his head. Genevieve has no intention of creating such disruption but she can’t face living at home, alone in a big city or at her parents home with her mom hovering and smothering her whilst she endures her drug detox. Sam recognises her addiction problem within minutes of meeting her and so, she sees his farm cottage as the perfect space to recover.

Sam struggles with his past and bad memories haunt his relationship with Genevieve. His curiousity about her draws him to learn more about her bible teaching books and leads to one of my favourite lines from the book when he asks the shop assistant about her videos.

“DVD series? We do. It’s one hundred and twenty dollars for the set.” He blinked at her. What on earth? He could buy a top-of-the-line cordless drill for that price.” - Favourite line of “Stay with Me” by Becky Wade

Genevieve digs into the emotional pain and psychological trauma that led to her addiction. Having been through drug withdrawal, I can say Becky has captured the experience so well. The conversations Genevieve has with her counselor are powerful in growing one’s faith, whether or not you struggle with addiction, they discuss healthy rhythms and how to draw near to God in hard times.

“Trauma never disappears, Genevieve. The things we’ve experienced are always a part of us. When we’re stressed, old traumas like to rear their heads.” - Favourite line of “Stay with Me” by Becky Wade

I loved the novella that opened this series and “Stay with Me” is fabulous, I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! I highly recommend this one, it’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale!

This book picked me up and carried me away to a beautiful cottage in the farmlands of Georgia. Becky Wade has written a phenomenal story of one woman’s futile quest for earned Grace and her journey to healing and peace.
By all appearances, Genevieve Woodward is the epitome of success-she has a huge following for her Christian Bible studies and speaking tours. She’s beautiful, fashionable, charismatic. But behind the facade she carries secrets that could destroy her.
Sam Turner is a serious man with one mission in life-survive each day of loneliness and regret alone as penance for past mistakes.
When Sam learns her secrets, helping her is the farthest thing from his mind but his soul refuses to abandon her, even if his heart must pay the ultimate price.
Gen knows she can’t fight her demons alone but in her pursuit of grace, she forgets that it is a free gift-not earned by works.
My takeaway: While I loved the chemistry between Sam and Gen, the word “desire” sometimes made it feel like more of a lust, or physical attraction, rather than a true connection of heart and soul. Yes physical attraction is important, but a well rounded connection is even more so, in my opinion.
I also had trouble with an unmarried couple living together in sin, even after a gracious Bible study leader lovingly shared the biblical truths with them regarding their lifestyle. As new Christians this became offensive to them. I never saw the characters offer guilt, remorse or repentance for that lifestyle, even after they had grown as a Christian. For this reason I can’t give 5 stars with a clear conscience. Christians are not perfect and definitely mess up from time to time, as this story greatly portrays. We all walk through times where God feels silent and so far away. As Ms. Wade so skillfully reminds us, He is near to all who call upon Him and His grace is freely given, we need only to repent from our sins and accept it. He will never give up on us.

Stay With Me is the first book in a new series by Becky Wade. As always, Becky Wade captures flawed characters in relatable situations and combines that with powerful messages of family, love and faith.

Genevieve is a popular and very successful bible study writer and speaker. But after an accident last year and a stressful schedule and deadlines, she found herself turning to prescription pain medication. When, after setting off for her parents’ house, she wakes to find herself in an empty guest cottage being regarded by the owner with some concern, she decides she finally has to kick her habit and get clean. She asks Sam, owner of the cottage, if she can rent the cottage from him as a place to hide while going through withdrawal and recovery. Sam has his own reasons for wanting to stay far away from the confusing woman he found asleep in his guest house, but he also feels a strong responsibility to help her.

I loved that this book considers a very serious topic of drug addiction. As Genevieve struggles to both admit she has a problem and faces the battle of overcoming her addiction, the very real possibility of how easy it is to fall into a prescription drug problem and the very serious fallouts are considered. But, more than that, the motivations behind Gen’s addiction are also regarded, both with understanding and grace. As a bible study presenter, Gen feels conflict over her addiction, her role as a speaker and her desire to keep everything under wraps.

I loved Sam. As a fellow Aussie, I appreciated his stoicism and down-to-earth manner. I also loved that while there a few mentions of his accent and a few Aussie words and slangs thrown in, Becky Wade doesn’t go overboard with stereotypes or ridiculous use of slang. Thank you! I loved Sam’s rugged, healthy eating, farm to table, restaurant-owner vibe. It is the perfect offset for Genevieve’s outgoing personality. While he wants to stay as far away from Gen as possible, his own history, that we readers slowly discover along with Gen as she prods him to open up to her, makes it hard for him to turn his back on her need. They really are two opposites and yet they compliment each other so well. I loved their little fights and how, even though their differences, they can’t help but connect.

While this is a book about overcoming personal challenges, about resetting and falling in love, I was surprised to discover it is also a bit of a mystery. There is a pretty detailed description of a murder and Gen and her sister find themselves on the footsteps of a serial killer. He’s already been imprisoned, so there isn’t any suspense or danger, but the mystery added an extra layer to the story. There are also some pretty big surprises in the plot, that I didn’t see coming. Along with that, each chapter is started with a flashback from when Gen and her sister were young teens and were caught in an earthquake. As two of only five survivors, the real-time play out of the earthquake disaster alongside Gen reliving it as she confronts her past is powerful. The end of the book also sets up a compelling situation for what I hope will feature in book two. Hearts will be broken, I can just tell.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Stay with Me is a fantastic novel and a wonderful beginning to Becky Wade's new Misty River Romance series. With each novel, Wade introduces a richly layered plot within a delightful setting. Stay with Me is no exception. The characters are so well crafted they're almost tangible. Misty River feels like a community I'd enjoy living in, and the relationship between Genevieve and her sister is lovely. Best of all, the slow-burn of Sam and Genevieve's developing relationship makes for an incredibly satisfying read.
Wade expertly weaves the emotional, spiritual and suspense-filled threads into a phenomenal story that is difficult to put down. Her courage in tackling the nuances of addiction is commendable. Readers will finish Stay with Me feeling inspired, hopeful and eager to read the next book in this series.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.

While I have read one other novel by Becky Wade in the past and found it to be enjoyable, I must admit it wasn't one that for me pushed her into that status of one whose books could not be missed. Stay With Me, however,certainly has me rethinking that. This book absolutely is one NOT to be missed.

Right from the very beginning, this book drew me in. Let's be honest, it didn't start off like your typical Christian romance. In fact, we meet our leading lady, Genevieve as she's passed out in a stranger's cottage, having taken pills that left her more than a little hazy. Like I said, not your typical opening... but it certainly grabbed my attention!

I loved that the author took on such a heavy and even taboo topic in this book. We often think of addiction as being something that non-Christians struggle with, but that's not always the reality--- especially with a prescription drug addiction that can start from a valid need for pain management that eventually leads to dependency, as is the case for Gen. While this may be a work of fiction, I still believe it can open our eyes to that very real issue in our world today.

Still, despite that uneasy topic, there was a lightness and sense of hope about this book that kept it from being too heavy. The romance played a big part in that. I loved the banter between Gen and Sam, bringing lightness to a book with many darker themes. I truly felt the chemistry leap off the page, and found myself rooting for them to overcome the obstacles in their way... as this is the first in the series, I hope to be able to catch up with them again in later books in the series because I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye. (I feel like we also got a glimpse of what will be the start of a story line for a future book, and I must say, I am READY for it!) Of course, a great mystery added in and a beautiful message of God's grace makes this all together a fantastic read, and one that I would certainly recommend!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.

Stay with me is such an amazing story ! It forces you to re-examine your own life, to check if you are hiding behind a facade because you are too scared to face the truth. It's also a sweet love story with realistic and amazing characters.

Becky has done it again with another excellent novel! Full of romance and family drama, you will not want to put this book down. With one of the main characters Australian, there's plenty of Australian lingo, themes, and cuisine. A must read to all who love romance novels.

‘Grief and regret were never far from him. They walked beside him every day. Laid down with him at night.’

I find it hard to begin this review because the book was so powerfully moving. I’m afraid I can’t do it justice. But I must try. Becky Wade’s books have always moved me. One thing I appreciate about her writing is that she never shies away from the Gospel message. This right here is the stuff that ministers to her readers. I’ve read nearly every single book of hers at least twice, and some three times. This one is destined for the same thing.

‘Every day she prayed. And prayed. And continued to seek a peace she could not find.’

Genevieve Woodward comes back to her hometown in the Georgia mountains because of an anonymous letter she’s received about a secret in her parents’ past. Gen needs a break from her career as an acclaimed Bible study author, teacher and speaker and is burned out with even concealing a terrific secret of her own, one that could destroy her. She wakes up in an unfamiliar cottage to the owner staring down at her and she knows right then she must get help.

Sam Turner has carved out a life for himself on this historic farm and with owning a kitchen in town that caters to healthful eating. He’s content. He thinks. Sam is carrying such a load of sorrow and regret that he feels as if he’s drowning at times. But he’s disciplined himself to this life and he has no desire to allow Gen to intrude on his well ordered life. But he just can’t seem to turn away from her because she desperately needs help.

Becky Wade launches out into some very deep waters with this first novel in her new series, probing the depths of human emotion, bondages and grace. She writes with a depth that makes me weep, which I did frequently during this reading. She manages to create characters with emotions so well it’s hard to believe they are fictional people on pages. I read in wonderment at her talent for weaving a story so full and rich, a talent surely given by God. The emotions Stay With Me evoked in my heart were astoundingly powerful and there were times I simply had to put the book down and just ponder at the deep truths of God contained therein. Truly, this book was so incredibly deep, that I think it just may be Wade’s best work to date. Awestruck is a word that fits when you finish this book. It is not a book to be put aside and another picked up right away. It is a book that fills your mind and heart for days ahead and one that will probably never truly leave you. I was blessed beyond measure by the reading of this book. I very highly recommend it. It is headed to the top of my top reads list in 2020.

*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.

This could easily be considered one of Becky Wade's best. It's certainly one of the richest with emotional and spiritual struggles. Ms. Wade sets the stage for "The Miracle Five," who I hope to read more about as the Misty River series continues.

Genevieve Woodward, the youngest survivor of the Miracle Five, has built a very public life as an author of Bible studies and Christian speaker. But while her public life is successful, her private life is a mess of secrets and stress. And never has she felt so closed off from the active presence of God in her life.

Enter Sam Turner, a man who's both farmer and restaurateur. He's all too familiar with the pitfalls of Genevieve's particular secret and wants nothing to do with repeating history. Yet, there are significant differences between his past and Gen, who's clearly fighting to win her battle.

Both Gen and Sam's issues are handled with grace and sensitivity, without excusing their choices. As they each find answers and healing in Christ, the friendship and love developing between them gives them the strength to keep moving toward Him. I loved how everything was addressed so beautifully and compassionately. Definitely an encouraging, emotional read worth picking up!

I was given a copy by the publisher through NetGalley, without expectation or influence. All opinions are my own and expressed willingly in my own words.

Wow, oh wow. Let's call this another home run, slam dunk by Becky Wade. The Misty River Romance series is now the 3rd series I'm reading by her, having read about the Porter family and the Bradford sisters already. Since I adored those series (plus a standalone novel) so much, I knew I had to keep an eye out for anything new that may be coming out. So I followed Becky Wade on Instagram and book stalked. I was not disappointed. I judge books by their covers (despite people saying not to) and I was so hooked on the idea of this book from the moment I saw the cover. Then I read the novella (Take a Chance on Me, which I've also reviewed on Goodreads) and was officially interested in this series.

Overall, there is such a powerful message of about love, forgiveness and redemption. Both between other people and with God.I absolutely loved reading about and watching the relationship between Sam and Genevieve unfold. They really helped to bring out other sides of each other with Sam being more serious and Gen being more outgoing and spontaneous. Both fight through past and current struggles in a way that draws them together, but also helps to heal them. Genevieve works to overcome a struggle in her current life, while Sam works to heal from past hurts. There are other aspects of the story that help bring in suspense, but I won't share anymore so there's no spoilers!

I felt like this book started off slower for me than other books I've read by Becky Wade and I'm not sure why. That's why I went with 4 stars instead of 5. I personally may have had a hard time transition from one author's style to another, but I will tell you that once I got to a certain point in the story, I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed learning about the "Miracle Five" and can't wait to see how the rest of the series unfolds!

Thank you to Becky Wade and Bethany House Publishing for giving me a chance to be on the launch team for this book. I did receive a free copy of this book, but am leaving an honest review of this book voluntarily.

Transparency. Learning to be transparent is hard, that is what Genevieve Woodward and Sam Turner discover when Genevieve shows up unexpectedly on Sam's doorstep and he agrees to rent her his cottage for the summer. They help each other deal with past and present wounds and work together to find the secret that Gen's parents have been hiding for generations. A beautiful story of God's love, forgiveness, renewal, and redemption. I am anxiously awaiting the second book in the series.

There’s a reason I read every Becky Wade book as soon as possible … LOL! She’s such an incredible author; I feel every new release is better than the last, and my next favorite.

Stay With Me has a different feel to it than other Wade books; at times it read almost more like Beth Vogt’s. (Not a bad thing, because, well, have you read Vogt’s Thatcher Sisters series? Incredible!)

The mystery of Genevieve’s parents’ past plays a larger role in Stay With Me than I expected — and I loved it. Wade could easily write a solely mystery book/series and be very successful!

Sam and Genevieve are both very relatable characters. Sam maintains Wade’s swoonworthy-hero norm (yay), and shows excellent character development, as does Genevieve. Stay With Me deals with some challenging topics, and invites the reader to ask questions about truth, forgiveness, and going public with weakness (and, frankly, sizable failure). While I’ve not gone through similar situations myself, I felt both Genevieve’s and her parents’ struggles were dealt with authentically, graciously, and tastefully. Same with Sam’s past and the Miracle 5 stories interspersed between chapters.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Becky wade is the contemporary author that I keep on coming back to for stories that are romantic, characters that are realistic and relatable and a message that is seamlessly woven into the story.
Stay with me is definitely one of those stories.
Becky wade has once again crafted a beautiful story around some thought topics without becoming too heavy.
Sam and Genevieve's story is just so touching, so well written and brings you through the range of emotions.
My one tiny complaint.
I am disheartened to see so many Christians participating in Halloween. I understand that some don't hold the same view. It didn't detract that much from the story.
I can't say too much without wandering into spoiler territory, but I truly hope that this book reaches out to many who have the same struggles as these characters, and I hope that it starts some conversations that need to happen.
That is one of the reasons I love Becky wade books, there is always something that goes beyond the surface, something that stays with you.
And there are heroes like Sam............enough said!
I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, all the opinions in this review are my own.

Becky Wade's Misty River Romance series starts off with this amazing book. You know those books that you can't put down, yet you don't want it to end? Yeah, this is one of those.

Genevieve is a Bible study author who receives an anonymous letter suggesting her family has a terrible secret. She goes home to uncover the truth but didn't expect to come clean about secrets of her own. Sam is a farmer and coffee shop owner who is also forced to work through issues he has kept hidden for years.

The author did a wonderful job weaving in difficult topics and struggles throughout this emotional love story. I laughed. I cried. I felt the Spirit in the words about forgiveness and redemption. This will definitely be one of my top five books of the year. I highly recommend it!

*I received a free advanced copy from the author. All opinions expressed were my own.

Stunningly beautiful. Heartwarming. Romantic. Richly inspired with God’s grace, love, and forgiveness.

Stay With Me was so beautifully written and the characters were deep and inspiring. The issues were very real and even heart wrenching at times, and yet so filled with God’s redeeming love and hope. There were multiple storylines that might seem distracting at times, but this really set up the series. Wade shines with this contemporary romance in the midst of real life struggles and a great mystery, too.

“The woman who’d slept in his guesthouse like Goldilocks had frightening power over him.” I love Sam and his view of Genevieve. He’s this strong, quiet, and yet determined man with a heart of gold. He has held his heart close, not allowing anyone in. However, Genevieve just seems to be crumbling his reserves. She brings a color and vitality to a world he didn’t realize lacked luster. I think he may have just knocked out the Porter boys as my favorite hero in a Wade story, and that’s tough competition. Of course, his Aussie bearing and accent may have had a little to do with that.

“The kiss tasted like destiny . . . as if she’d been waiting, without knowing she’d been waiting. For him. For this. It felt more right than anything had felt in forever and a day.” Genevieve has been so busy and stressed for so long that she doesn’t know how to deal with it. She doesn’t understand why she can’t hear God’s voice, which is so important as a Bible teacher and leader. However, as her own secrets and family mysteries are revealed, she has tough choices to make. In the midst of it all, Sam becomes a lifeline for her.

“Why was it so hard for Christians to come clean to one another about the sins that had them by their throats? Because of pride? Because every Christian wanted every other Christian to think they were doing it right? That they were strong and good? If so, that was idiotic.”

Honestly, I wish I could shout this message from the roof tops! Our world would be such a better place if we as Christians truly accepted and gave forgiveness. Showing compassion and love is key to our faith, and yet we struggle with true authenticity. This is often because of our own fear of acceptance and judgement from others. I thought Wade did an amazing job sharing this authenticity and compassion through others in the midst of hardships. In a nutshell, that is the crux of the message of “Stay With Me.” Accepting one another with all our faults, sins, and frailties. Loving one another through the good and bad. Focusing on one another’s positives and gifts and truly seeing one another as Jesus sees us.

If you want divinely inspired, the love story between Sam and Genevieve made it truly captivating. There was such depth and devotion in their growing love. And wow, Sam, what an amazing leading hero to Gen’s bubbly, outgoing personality. He is a true heartthrob and I loved all the references to him being an Australia-American. A big heart, but caution in showing it. He’s very authentic down to earth and yearning for something he doesn’t yet realize. He would give the shirt off his back and yet, has a hard time with relationships. Gen is like color and sunshine wrapping around him and yet letting his fears go is difficult. Gen has so much to give, but is burning out, stressed and making choices that just make it worse. The romance and electricity between them will have you begging for their happy ending. Another contemporary romance must read from Becky Wade.

I was provided an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley by the publisher. All opinions in this review are given honestly.

As we’ve come to love Becky Wade as a leading author of inspirational contemporary fiction, Stay with Me, her soon to be released novel, pulls no punches when it comes to the delivery of a relevant and moving tale. Permeated with real-life struggles, family secrets, and a scintillating romance, this newest title conveys all you would expect and more.

Tackling tricky issues like the balance of public image and faith, addiction, family secrets, and old wounds, Stay with Me is a poignant and compelling work of contemporary fiction. Well-developed characters, strong emotional ties, dynamic chemistry, and threads of intrigue furnish a well-written novel in a beautiful setting. Sam and Genevieve are soulful and real as the hero and heroine struggling with facades. Both must fight their own demons while learning to heal and trust in this touching gem of inspiration.

Stay with Me will be released on May 5th and is the keystone to what should be an engaging new series (Misty River.) Wade delivers hope and redemption wrapped in a charming and artful package you won’t want to put down. Elements of humour (hello, nod to Goldilocks), a lively romance, and tugs to the heartstrings make this title work for me!

My thanks to the publisher for the complimentary copy of this title via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own. Full review scheduled to publish April 16/20 at https://lifelovelaughterlinds.ca/?p=1071

Good gracious. This book was PHENOMENAL. Gen and Sam’s story is one that has left me with the biggest book hangover I’ve ever experienced. Becky Wade doesn’t shy away from tackling real issues prevalent in these times. But she handles them with care and honesty. And she always finds the perfect way to knit in hilarity and chemistry-packed romance. This is a novel that transcends genres. I can’t wait to read it again.

I don’t want to spoil Genevieve’s secret for you. But let me say, her struggle is something we can all relate with. Trying to act perfect is exhausting, and sometimes we need to be reminded that we are human and make mistakes. That’s what makes God’s grace so amazing. Most of all, it’s what makes His grace so freeing.

Wade weaves this lesson through both Genevieve and Sam’s struggles. And those struggles made me identify with the characters and root for them even more. I didn’t always agree with the decisions the characters made, or even their conclusions, but that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this novel.

Now let me talk about the setting for a moment. I have been so excited about Becky Wade’s newest release ever since I heard it would be based in the North Georgia Mountains. As a North Georgia native, seeing my home mentioned in a book is always exciting. Stay with Me is set in Rabun County, which is right next to my county, Habersham. And the mention of Habersham, seeing it in print, may have made me a little too giddy. But I think Wade did a great job of highlighting the beauty of the mountains and the charm of small-town life.

I also love how she incorporated the story of the Miracle Five throughout the novel. Wade intersperses bits and pieces of flashbacks from the perspective of all five children, and she does this in a way that it highlights the main story. I don’t even know how to explain the way she does it and the impact it has on the story as a whole. All I can say is that it’s phenomenal and you’d have to read the novel and see for yourself.

Overall, Stay with Me provides a heartwarming romance mixed in with a timeless spiritual lesson. The perfect read for a cozy afternoon, this novel will keep you engaged as you experience the ups and downs with the main characters.

(Review will go on the blog on April 17 at 5 PM)

Oh my word! I would give a thousand ❤️s to this book because 5 stars and a 👍🏻 like won’t do it justice. I LOVED the Bradford sisters series, but wow, I have a new favorite already. This book is powerful. The Holy Spirit is all over this message, and I love it! The writing here is simply beautiful. So much depth to these words. (I also already devoured Take A Chance On Me and loved it!)

Favorite lines: “Relationships were painful and messy and beautiful and important. The mess came with the beauty. The pain came with the importance. That was life. And God was calling him to live it.”

“Sam was a gift that God had dropped in her lap at one of the lowest moments of her life, right when she’d deserved a gift the least. She was grateful, simply and deeply grateful, for the gift.”

Stay With Me by Becky Wade is a cute romance. This is the third book I'm reading written by Becky Wade. After reading Falling For You and Sweet On You by this Christy Award Wimming author, I couldn't wait to read Stay With me.

Genevieve Woodword who is a Christian author and motivational speaker inspiring thousands of women with her writings and speeches, one day receives a letter from a mysterious sender blaming her parents of some crime. Gen immediately comes to her hometown to find out about the facts behind the letter. She also needs a get away from her tight schedule and time to recover from a dangerous addiction no one knows about.
She meets Sam Turner in strange circumstances. Sam who is a loner by choice doesn't receive Gen immediately but eventually caves in and rents her his cottage on a condition that she never falls for him. Gen finds strength and support in Sam during her recovery. 

The story is about unraveling family secrets, finding strength in love and the importance  of trust in relationships. The book is releasing on 5th May, 2020. I received the advance reviewers copy for an honest review. There is an ease in the writing style if Becky Wade. A tender and beautiful story totally engaging the reader. A cool read for the quarantine summer.

In Stay with Me, Becky Wade has crafted a beautiful story of grace, redemption, and the courage needed to be honest with others, with ourselves, and with God. Realistically drawn characters grapple with real-life problems—and find that the answers lie not within themselves, but in accepting the grace of the One who loves them most.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Becky Wade starts a new series centered in Misty River.

The series begins with Genevieve and Sam. After God has saved Genevieve’s life, she grew up to become a Bible study author and speaker. To say she was good at her job was an understatement as she had an anointing and a gift to teach the Word of God.

But Genevieve has a secret. And it’s a secret that can ruin her reputation and the career she has sacrificed so hard to build. She’s not quite the polished Christian she appears to be. Her secret has her doing things she wouldn’t normally have done…which is how she ended up letting herself into the cottage on Sam’s property and falling asleep in the bed.

Know God--Stay With Me is a commentary on how we sometimes feel as Christians. We know we are saved by grace but still act as though our actions can save us. We know that God never leaves us but we wonder why he’s absent when we’re going through difficult times.

Know yourself--Sam and Genevieve had to really look into themselves to see their own flaws in order for them to appreciate the tasks God had given them.

Run your race--Genevieve and Sam each ad to make the choice to steward the gifts God had given them.

Be prepared to have your emotions tugged all over the place with this one. Genevieve is a very relatable character. She wrestles with her identity in Christ and the sense that it feels like when you need him, God is absent as we sometimes do.

I liked how the two were a perfect foil for each other. They completed each other even when they were unwilling to accept how much they needed each other.

I love how Becky Wade uses flawed characters to showcase the love of God, His grace and all the ways he uses our messy brokenness to share a message of hope to others.

I received an advanced reader’s copy of Stay With Me from the publishers through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

Stay with Me by Becky Wade will go down as one of my all-time favorites of 2020. It's been a while since I've read one of her books but this one blew me away! Becky tackles hard subjects (not feeling worthy, addiction to prescription drugs, relationship issues) in such a transparent way, I loved the realness of Gen and Sam's relationship, the struggles they faced that we also face at times. I loved reading about Gen's family and the mystery that surrounds her parents. In fact, I just love this one so much I might just go read it again while I wait for the next book in the series! This book is definitely a gem!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.

"Fine" and "normal" are two heavy words we like to toss around. Mostly because we don't admit how much weight they carry. The weight of expectations, of perfection, and morale. How those two simple words can cramp our lives and take away our breathing room.

In this fallen world they are not attainable and Becky Wade explores this in her newest release.
Genevieve Woodward is an accomplished Bible teacher. People gather around her wherever she goes because of her wisdom, kindness, and beauty. Though Sam Turner only sees these attributes bringing the end of his peace, especially the last one ;-)

But Genevieve has a secret she keeps tight. A secret that can ruin her career and the pedestal she has been put. However, when "fine" and "normal" prove to not be the strongest foundation, she will have to be brave to face her deepest and darkest parts, because some parts of our stories can come again to haunt us no matter how many years have passed. This book is about recognizing the broken but finding steadfastness, honor, and healing through the vulnerability of admitting you are far, so far from being well.

“It didn’t feel like he was coming in from the cold of one autumn night. It felt like he was coming in from seven years of cold.”

Oh how I love Becky Wade! Stay with Me made me laugh and cry. She is gifted and I love the dialogues. The storyline is great. Gen’s secret, Sam’s past, their budding romance, family drama and the mystery letter to Gen about her parents make this book compelling.

God indeed brought them together to help each other out. I like the comparison about the caravan that rescued Joseph from the pit. I believe it to be true. Sometimes we don’t even realize that God has sent a caravan to liberate us. We just have to trust Him.

I look forward to the next book and I guess it will be about Sebastian? I highly recommend this book. You will be amazed by the story and how God’s truth and grace helped them.

*Thank you netgalley and bethany house for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.*

I just finished reading the final words of the beautifully written, heart-wrenching, romantic story of Genevieve and Sam. Becky Wade should win awards for this one. It’s a story filled with betrayal, addiction, heartache, and ultimately God’s grace and protection. This is one that will stay with me for while, I'm sure. A must-read.

In Stay with Me by Becky Wade, tackles a tough topic of opioid addiction. Genevieve is a Bible study writer and speaker. I kept imagining Beth Moore as Genevieve.
I enjoyed the relationship between Genevieve and her sister, Natasha. Once you understand about the Miracle Five you understand her relationship with her mother.

Sam recognizes immediately Genevieve’s option addiction because he had already lost someone to it. I found it interesting how he helped her through the withdrawal. He had an interesting occupation as he had his own store and cook farm to table.

Genevieve and Natasha are also researching a mystery surrounding their parents.

We have another story line of the Miracle Five. The Miracle Five is the story of Genevieve, her sister and three other kids when they were on a mission trip and an earthquake happened. The children were trapped for several days. This was a touching story from each of the kids perspectives. Most of them keep in touch after surviving such an ordeal.

I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.

The thing I love most about Becky Wade's books are her characters. They're real and raw, with real-life issues. This book is the first book in the Misty River Romance saga. While there is a prequel novella, it's not necessary to read that one before this. The male main character of that book, Eli, shows up in this one once or twice, but not knowing his history is not problematic to this story at all. This book follows Sam (Eli's friend), who is striving to make a new start with a completely ordered life in Misty River, and Genevieve, one of the "Miracle 5", a group of 5 who 15 or so years ago survived an earthquake on a Jr. High mission trip to El Salvador. The book travels back in time every so often to tell the story of the Miracle 5, which gives us some of Genevieve's history.

This story is a beautiful one of grace and second chances. I love how God brought Sam and Genevieve together and used each of their strengths and weaknesses to help the other rise above their current struggles. While this is definitely a romance novel, the thing I like about this author's books is that the romance flows naturally, out of the circumstances of the characters. This novel is a character-driven novel, which makes it much better (in my opinion) than a romance-driven novel. Sam and Genevieve are both completely relatable and very likable characters. They have real life struggles and their struggles actually push them together in a realistic way. I enjoyed the history of the Miracle 5, the mystery surrounding Genevieve's parents, as well as the overcoming of great struggles. The strong theme of God's grace was throughout and really pulled a punch at the end. I would advise that any who have experienced first-hand or second-hand the effects of prescription drug abuse, this may have some triggering scenes, but I believe they were well done and offered grace.

Special thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for an advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Talk about a book that pulls you in and doesn't let go to the end! This one will have you quickly looking for answers, and will they all unfold?
One story line quickly became another, and then another, and on, more like real life!
When I think of it, we have survivors here, from what? Life, and all that goes with it, and most you really won't see coming, most you would not imagine, and yet, the secrets started to fall.
Through it all, there is a love of God, that is so strong and yet we are all sinners, but they never loose their faith!
There is a sense of loss with the last page turning, but, there are going to be more, I just don't know which of the survivors story we will see, so stay tuned!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

Genevieve Woodward is a famous bible teacher and speaker. Sam Turner is a restaurant owner/ farmer living on his own. When they meet, it is not in the best circumstances and Genevieve needs Sam’s help. Sam agrees on a few conditions; one of them being that she not fall in love with him. Soon secrets from their past come to light and threats toward Genevieve’s family cause her to question everything her parents taught and her relationship with God.
This book is not just a suspenseful, romance, Becky shares the importance of forgiveness.

I graciously received an advance e-copy from netgalley for review. All opinions are my own.

This book has it all! Becky Wade does not shy away from tackling some very difficult topics, but does so in a way that shows care and respect. All the while packing it full of laughter, tears, friendship, family, and enough chemistry to sizzle! It also rips into the need that most Christians have struggled with at one time or another, to maintain a certain façade of perfection. This story is powerful yet easy to read. It'll leave you feeling satisfied yet anxiously awaiting the next story in the Misty River Romance series. I know I can't wait to see what happens next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

"Like Papa Bear in the Goldilocks story, Sam Turner had discovered a strange woman sleeping in the bed of a house he owned" (location 38). What a great start to the story. I really enjoy Wade's writing style. "The morning after Genevieve Woodward had interrupted his life like an unwelcome news bulletin in the middle of regularly scheduled programming...." (location 399). I loved all the Jane Austen references thanks to Gen's sister spending a year "living Austenly."

Becky Wade's covers are so whimsical that I am caught off guard by the content. I'm expecting a light-hearted sweet romance and then am surprised when things turn to drug addiction, serial killers, secrets, earthquakes and more. It's a wonderful surprise. Wade deals with the realities of drug addiction and withdrawal well. It was amazing watching Sam help Gen even though she made him crazy much of the time. He doesn't realize how much she is also helping him.

At first I was confused by the changing perspective of the children in the earthquake chapters. I didn't realize that they were going to be the subjects of future books at the outset. I appreciated their commitment to each other even as adults and am looking forward to learning more about them.

This was a poignant book that highlighted the importance of relationships and the power of grace in our lives. I'd highly recommend it.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

3.5 rounded to 4
Thank you to Bethany House for the free review copy. All opinions are my own. 

I was so excited for this new series by Becky Wade, and this one has definitely left me excited for the books to come in this series. I really enjoyed Sam and Gen's story. It was complex and realistic. Both had huge issues to overcome, and they had to learn to trust and rely on each other. I appreciated how Wade decided to tackle the topic of opiate addiction in this book. She showed how hard addiction is and that treatment is not easy. I liked how both characters had been impacted by this disease in different ways. She also used this scenario to help illustrate different attributes of God and showed His grace wonderfully throughout the book. 

My one issue with the book was not even with the story line it was with the use of quite a few (in my opinions) exclamation points. I am not a big fan of them because it can make things seem exaggerated, and I found this to be true with Gen's character. She felt fake to me at times because of so many exclamatory statements, which made it hard for me to connect with her at times. This was definitely a personal preference issue.

I honestly never thought that any of Becky Wade's new books would end up replacing Undeniably Yours as my favorite by her. However, I was not prepared for the amazing story that is Stay With Me, and it has without a doubt become my new favorite. This beautiful story about the importance of truth, healing and redemption tugged at my heartstrings right from the opening paragraph and left me with a huge book hangover when I finished reading it.

It takes an insanely talented author to be able to weave together a story with many different story lines occurring throughout, and still keep the reader interested in each and every one. Stay With Me is part romance, part mystery, and a story about both main characters growing closer to God by learning to let go of the things they truly cannot control. Rounding out the story is chapters that provide a look back to the traumatic experience that the main female character Genevieve experienced as a teenager with her older sister and three other youth. I couldn't wait to find out how everything was going to tie together, and I had a hard time putting this once down once I picked it up.

Genevieve is a different protagonist than is often featured in Christian fiction, and I liked her right from the start. I appreciate the fact that Becky Wade always writes her characters as flawed, and never represents Christianity as meaning perfection. Genevieve is struggling, and trying to maintain a facade of being the perfect Christian that she comes across as in her Bible studies that thousands of women all over the world have found hope and understanding from. However, she's losing a little bit more of herself everyday she continues the charade, and she's turned to prescription pain killers to make her life more manageable. A chance encounter with local Misty River restaurant owner, Sam, has her yearning for things she's never found herself wanting before. Sam has dark secrets in his past, and he's dealt with them by shutting himself off from the rest of the world. As he tries to help Genevieve overcome her addiction, he realizes that he wants more than the small life he's carved out for himself. As Genevieve stumbles upon tragic secrets her family has tried to keep hidden, her and Sam will truly learn the importance of coming clean with our Heavenly Father, and that the only way to truly move on is to embrace the healing and grace that He always is there to offer.

While this book ended up being a lot more raw and realistic than I'd originally expected, it also gives the primary messages of hope and redemption, and had me both laughing and tearing up throughout. Becky Wade truly shines at weaving together complex story lines that always feature a swoon worthy romance, Christians who aren't perfect, and a focus on the importance of a true relationship with Jesus. I really loved both the characters of Genevieve and Sam, and the fact that their romance starts out as a reluctant friendship. A lot of my favorite book couples have been written by Becky Wade, and Genevieve and Sam are now officially on this list as well. Becky continues to be one of my all time favorite authors, and I can't wait to read more of the Misty River Romance series in the future. After all the set up in this book for introducing the Miracle Five, I really can't wait to hear more of their stories in upcoming books.

I can't possibly recommend this enough, and it's one of my favorite reads of the year so far.

Final Rating 5/5


Thanks so much to Bethany House and NetGalley for allowing me to advance read this!

I received a complimentary advance copy of this novel to voluntarily read and review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

What a beautiful story of redemption.

Genevieve has been through some seriously bad things in her life. She has been able to turn those bad things around and make it into a successful career, touring around and telling other women about their identity in Christ. But when circumstances spiral out of her control, Genevieve must come to terms with the past and admit her present distress. But what will people think? She has spent her life's work spreading the word of God. What if others knew what she had become? Is she a fraud?

Sam becomes an unwilling friend and ally, after discovering Genevieve sleeping in a secluded cabin on his property. He wants nothing to do with all her baggage, but will he find his own sort of redemption helping her? Sam is forced to confront his own past as Genevieve slowly makes him reconsider all the protective hedges he had carefully constructed around his heart.

In true Becky Wade fashion, she presents us with two strong lead characters who must walk through some serious fire in order to grow. She makes a work of fiction feel so relatable, and that is a gift. If something that isn't true can ring so close to home and create an opportunity for introspection, then you know you've found a gem.

I know you will be blessed by reading this book. Put on the coffee because once you start, you won't put it down.

I LOVE Becky Wade no question but I take each book as they come and this one did not disappoint. The characters, the setting, the backstory, the ministering, the falling in love and the love, all of it just captivated me and kept me glued to this book.
Although this book plays out in current time, the reader is taken along with snippets of an earlier time to a particular event for a few of the characters. Those had me intrigued just as much as the main story because I kept trying to put it together. Don't worry they fit together and you never have any doubt about it but how does the past affect the present and the future. I told you intriguing.
I love a love story that without a doubt the reader can pick up on the chemistry of the main couple without being told. If you're the same way then you are going to love this book just as much as I do. The banter, the little things that go along with attraction are there, so effortlessly and naturally played out that you fall in love too.
This book tackles a couple heavy topics that were beautifully handled and the ministering that went along with it fed my soul. I highlighted and journaled quite a bit through this book and it's fiction but very quotable. This book dives deep even as it entertains.
Bonus after reading this you will be excited for the next book in the series.

Book one in the Misty River captured my imagination and lightened my heart while intriguing me. Sam is a hero and half, while Gen is inspiring in her determination to stand strong and not fold when trouble hits hard. The romance is a very sweet story wrapped around some major life issues of family, faith and future. I'd highly recommend this book if you love a great romance that transports you, holds you enchanted and then lets you go with a gentle sigh. Becky Wade at her best.

(4.5 stars) - A beautiful love story within a beautiful love story! 

This was a riveting story with 3 interwoven plot threads: Genevieve's relationship with Sam, her anonymous letters mystery, & her experience with 4 others being buried by an earthquake for 8 days. 

The overarching story in all that is Genevieve's relationship with God. The beauty of it is how it all works together Providentially to help repair her damage - and thru her healing, Sam's as well. 

The author mentions at the beginning about how Christians don't typically admit their failings. I've no doubt at all that pride is a significant factor in that, but it's important to recognize that it's also because we know those flaws will frequently get used against us personally, as a group, and worst of all, against God in particular.  

It's already so humiliating when we fall, but to hear atheists hold us up as proof that God doesn't exist is just that much more shame. We don't want to be a source of scandal to our faith. The book does hint at this in Genevieve's journey, but I wish it had been addressed a little more directly & strongly. 

We need the reminder that when we admit our failures & our dependence on God, it's actually a witness to believers as well as unbelievers, of God's incredible mercy. He doesn't save us once, but is there every time we fall.  

Still, the story succeeds wonderfully in portraying God's Providential care even when we've made a mess of things & struggle to trust or even find Him - it's a beautiful love story within a beautiful love story! 

*Clean romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic 
*Religion: overtly Christian but organic to the story, not preachy

I'm so excited about this first novel in Becky Wade's new Misty River series! Stay With Me is a fresh, thoroughly engaging, and humorous story complete with quirky characters, including one who likes to thread Pride and Prejudice quotes in her everyday language! A breathtaking romance develops when a real-life Southern Goldilocks meets an Australian farmer/chef.

And then there's the mystery: "I know what your parents did. And after all we've suffered, it's hard to watch you bask in your fame and money. Your parents aren't going to get away with it."

In Stay with Me, Becky tackles the relevant and challenging subject of opioid addiction with natural aplomb. She explores the theme of secrets, those shameful hidden parts of us that we fail to acknowledge to God and each other, and the importance of being transparent to experience the greater intimacy, freedom, and grace it brings.

It's such a compelling story! I enthusiastically recommend it to all who enjoy inspirational fiction filled with a strong message of God's hope and redemption. I am grateful to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel, for this my honest review.

I admit that I am struggling a little to write a review for this book, because how do you review such an absolutely wonderful book? I feel as though any praise I give it will be inadequate to how fantastic it truly is! Suffice it to say, this novel has all the things that make any Becky Wade book great—characters with realistic struggles and imperfect lives with which we as readers can easily identify, raw spiritual truths that strike a chord in our own spiritual walk, and clean romance that makes us swoon! I absolutely loved Sam! He is shaped by past mistakes but it has made him into such a wonderful man! (And not only is he handsome but he can cook?! Yes please!) And I really liked how Becky handled a sensitive addiction in the novel, with careful research and accurate, often less than rosy, portrayals of its consequences. The themes of forgiveness, mercy, and grace were strong in the story and really made me think and, at times, made me cry as the characters realized the same truths. I love how her writing is so seamless that you can spend hours reading and still find yourself completely immersed in the book. I enjoyed the setting of Misty River and the other characters in the novel and I am very excited to read more about them in the rest of the series. The family mystery in the story had twists and turns that surprised me and further added to the complexity of the book. I truly could go on and on about how much I love this book, but instead I’ll just say, go buy a copy yourself and enjoy this highly recommend novel!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Becky Wade does so much so well in this book. I mean, getting the reader to identify with a hero as taciturn as Sam is tough. (And if he's not narrated in audiobook format with his Aussie accent, it's a crime.)

Most of all, I was impressed with how a story that deals with heavy topics (opioid addiction, childhood trauma, and, uh, something I can't divulge because it would be a spoiler) did not drag me down in the least. Genevieve's sparkling personality kept things sunny, even when they weren't.

Great story, tension-building mystery, beautifully developed spiritual themes organic to the story, and a slow-building romance with loads of chemistry. The only thing that pulled me a wee bit out of the story were some lengthy backstory passages I'd rather have seen slipped into scenes bit by bit as necessary.

4.5/5 stars!

4.5 stars
There was great anticipation with the release of a new book, in a new series, by Becky Wade. She is undoubtedly one of my favorite contemporary Christian fiction authors. She balances great romantic tension among the characters with real-life struggles. These characters are relatable...their feelings expressed on the pages are relatable. As this is Christian fiction, there are also moments in every book that the characters come to a point of their faith impacting the choices they make. In "Stay With Me," I loved Genevieve's character. She's a Christian author, Bible study writer, and speaker, but the book isn't really centered around that. Her character is presented as primarily a young woman who is in the midst of a critical point in her life, struggling with her past and trying to recover from it. Even though this is fiction, it reminded me that everyone has issues that they struggle with...even those that may be able to present to the outside world that everything is going great. Sam is definitely a swoon worthy hero! First of all...Australian. Thank you, Becky. Second, he's the broody type that I just can't get enough of. He's also very wounded from his past and doesn't really judge Genevieve, but offers her support and accountability. These two compliment each other really well.
Other interesting elements of the story were the side plots. Genevieve was a survivor of a terrible earthquake when she was in middle school. I loved that sprinkled throughout the book, there were a few pages of each survivor's thoughts as they were trapped in a building due to the earthquake. It helped give some backstory without overwhelming the rest of the plot. I thought that was very clever. There's also a mystery element involving Genevieve's family that was another side plot. There's a lot going on in this book, so there's never a dull moment! It was very hard to put down!

I'm SO looking forward (already) to seeing how this series is going to go! Book one, along with a prequel novella ("Take a Chance on Me"), have gotten things off to a great start!

**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in order to share my honest opinions, which I did.**

Stay with Me, by Becky Wade, is the first book in her latest series. Sam Turner, looking for a solitary life, opened a restaurant in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains; however, one quiet morning he finds a woman unconscious in a empty cottage on his property. After looking through the woman's purse, he discovers her name is Genevieve Woodward; however, he also finds her in possession of some dangerous pain pills!

Genevieve, a well-known Bible study author, has been struggling with her addiction to oxycontin. Sam reluctantly offers to assist her in making an escape from its power. Genevieve also has another problem. She has returned to her hometown to research a threatening letter that she received in the mail!

As Genevieve digs into her parents past in an effort to understand the origin of the threats, she will discover new truths about not only her parents, but herself as well. By the end of this book, you will see a beautiful picture of the healing power that only God can bring!

This book is super powerful, it discusses some very tough subjects. The author also discusses finding forgiveness when life doesn't look so great. I found this book really hard to put down. I liked how the author held nothing back. The characters felt like so relatable and felt like I was catching up with a friend who was going through something. This author does not disappoint the book draws you in keeps you going to the end. I really hope to read more about the Miracle five and I hope that Ben and Sebastian's stories will be coming soon. This book is a good clean read though it does discuss some tough topics it's so worth the read.

This was a fantastic Christian novel about examining the things in our life and how they bring us closer to or further from Christ. I also loved the themes of love, redemption, and forgiveness that were woven throughout the book. This was a real and brave look at opiod addiction, especailly from a Christian perspective. Throughout the story, the tale of the "Miracle 5" was unfolded and expertly connnected, compared, and contrasted to the main plot. I would rate this PG-13 for opiod use and discussion of past thematic violence, with a sweet and clean romance that had plenty of swoony kisses. I look forward to reading more from Becky Wade, especially from the Misty River series.

Stay With Me by Becky Wade is a Christian fiction book. This book is first in the Misty River series starts off with excitement. Becky Wade won the Christy and Carol awards. the reader will be drawn into the trials of Genevieve . very early in the book. The predominant themes are forgiveness, grace, romance. Sam Turner is faithful and supportive . There is also a family mystery for Genevieve to solve. She works with her sister to solve the puzzle. How will it turn out? How will they resolve their questions? The characters, scenes are described well . The book is w ell written. I look forward to the next book in the series. Thank you to the publisher, netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions are my own. I will post my review on facebook, Amazon, my blog, bookbub, kobo, for our church staff.

Becky Wade is one author I make a point to NEVER miss one of her books. Time and again she delivers a story that is more than a light romance. There are layers and complexities to her irresistible writing style that insure you will not be able to put her books down. And such is definitely the case in her newest book Stay With Me.

In this book, we truly have it all. A sense of mystery, a battle to overcome drug addiction, relational struggles of transparency and identity, and a tender romance. Witty dialogue, pacing perfection, and ever deepening story development hallmark this tale. I am thrilled this is only the first book in the series, because these are characters I most certainly want to see again.

I highly recommend this book and all of Wade’s novels. I guarantee she will soon become a favorite of yours!

I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

(No Spoilers!)

I absolutely love a book that takes me on an emotional rollercoaster ride and 'Stay with Me' certainly pummeled my heart, stomped my toes, and quickened my pulse till the very last page!

Australian raised, Sam Turner, is completely bumfuzzled when he discovers the beautiful Genevieve Woodward lying asleep in his cottage on his beautiful farm and wants no part of her. In my opinion Sam is a total stuffed shirt and I'm not talking about muscles here. Although there is that. ;) He's taciturn, arrogant, standoffish, and well—a fabulous cook so that accounts for something. However, when I caught a glimpse into his heart, I completely loved what I saw.

In some ways Gen reminds me a bit of myself (no wonder I loved her so much-lol)...always wearing a smile appearing to be fine, is light-hearted and kind, and has a witty sense of humor no matter what she's going through. And she's going through alot! Her family is hiding a terrible secret and so is Gen—one that could ruin her reputation as an acclaimed Bible study teacher/author.

Becky Wade's writing is off the charts and this is beyond a doubt my favorite book of hers. The rather chilling suspense element caught me a bit off-guard...the angsty romance and spiritual theme is something I've come to expect with Wade's books. I'm anxiously awaiting the next novel in the Misty River Romance series!

Reading about Sam and Genevieve‘s journey together was just simply unbelievable! I loved how there were stories within the story. I breathlessly followed the rescue of the Miracle Five, even though I knew the outcome, and solving the mystery behind the letters was a total shock! But back to Sam and Gen...wow! Despite the hardships that brought them together, there was an undeniable, heart-pounding attraction that sizzled every time they were together, but there was no question that every step they took was guided by God’s love for them. Though the road was broken, it unquestionably led them together for all the right reasons. The themes of honesty, forgiveness, and unconditional love were beautiful, and it was was definitely a 2 tissue ending. I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a review.

Wade has crafted another entertaining contemporary romantic novel. I like how she is not afraid to tackle issues in the Christian community. In this novel, a successful female Christian author of Bible studies, Genevieve, has gotten addicted to prescription pain relievers. A potential romance develops when she meets a man, Sam, who is willing to stand by her as she begins to detox. But he has his own issues from his past. There are huge obstacles to overcome before the two can pursue a relationship.

There is also a mystery woven into the plot. Genevieve has received a letter indicating her parents had done something terrible in the past and all might be revealed soon. Her parents deny any skeletons in their closet but when she receives a second letter, Genevieve and her older sister begin to investigate their parents' past.

Both of the threads of the plot combine to explore the concept of Christians putting on an appearance of being fine when all is not well. The whole issue of honesty is highlighted when Sam demands honesty from Genevieve if he is to help her. There is a serious lesson there for all of us in our relationships.

I love the snappy dialogue between Genevieve and Sam. Wade's ability to create engaging characters with entertaining interactions make the novel work. I did not like the time slip aspect, the interludes of going back to the earthquake. I felt they were disruptive and would have rather had them all as a prologue.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

Stay With Me is Becky Wade’s first full-length novel in the Misty River romance series, and it has set the bar high for the rest of the series! Everything within the covers is beautifully crafted. Amazing, quirky, memorable characters--and not just the hero, Sam, (swoon) or the bubbly heroine, Genevieve. In fact, one of my favorites is Gen’s sister, Natasha. I loved all her nutty Jane Austen-obsessed antics.
Sam. Is. Amazing. I could hear the melodic tune of his Aussie accent and see his manly profile, but the best parts of him were on the inside. What a loving and serving heart he has! And such courage rests in him! He was such a warrior for the people he cared about, and that instantly drew me to him.
I just love Genevieve, too. She is so bubbly and bright. And I think the contrast between the darkness of her addiction and this shiny facade of her personality really emphasizes how we can deny the sin in our lives until it threatens to overcome us.
I loved every minute of the interactions between Gen and Sam. How they went from abysmal acquaintances to rocky friends to soul-touching partners in her recovery. And those kisses! Whew!
This novel is layered with depth and sub-plots that grip your attention and add such a fullness to the story. From Genevieve being part of The Miracle Five (I’ll let you discover the meaning to this on your own.) to Gen and Natasha secretly researching her parents’ past, this story will capture and hold your attention and your heart from beginning to finish.
This book addresses some very real and timely issues-- addiction, grief, anxiety, forgiveness-- and how we often turn to the wrong source for comfort. One of the reasons I read inspirational fiction, is I like being challenged in my faith--even if that means taking a closer look at myself. I thought Becky Wade brought important points to light about how we often lie to ourselves and others about the sin in our lives and consequently grow farther and farther from God.
Stay with Me will put you through the emotional wringer, but it is so worth it! You will be crying tears of joy and relief by the end. I promise!
Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction/romance will love this book.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author/publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

A raw, poignant, and unforgettable experience in forgiveness. Becky Wade once again traverses the territory of the messy human heart and the baggage it is capable of hauling around in secret. This story beautifully and graciously demonstrates the truth that perfect love cast out all fears and exposes the darkness. Genevieve and Sam navigate the ugliness of brokenness and the beauty of redemption. They both have a unique charm that will attract even the most stoic of readers and break through all barriers of resistance to a wonderfully real love story. Trigger alert if you or a loved one has struggled with an addiction, but Wade has handled it so beautifully it is worth the range of emotions you are sure to experience. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own and freely shared.

Genevieve was one of the Miracle 5. Five young people who had gone on a mission trip to El Salvador and were trapped in a building when an earthquake hit. Fast forward to adulthood, Genevieve is now a noted Christian speaker and Bible study author. But life has put her on a merry-go-round, she broke her ankle, and is now addicted to opioids. Sam has found calm on his farm after a relationship ended when his girlfriend overdosed on opioids. What will happen when their lives connect on Sam's farm when Genevieve is strung out on opioids?

With realistic, gut wrenching characters, a touch of romance, a smidgen of suspense, and a family mystery that needs to be solved, the premise of this story with its split time plot line bouncing back and forth between the story of the earthquake and Genevieve's present day struggles with opioids was interesting. I felt though there was some disconnection between the two time periods and how they related. I also was bothered by the fact that Genevieve and Sam kept telling one another that there wasn't going to be any relationship between them. Then in the next moment they were holding each other and sharing intense kisses. Finally, although the author did a good job of presenting the problems with opioid usage, I felt like she in some ways downplayed the enormous difficulty of withdrawal from them.

I really enjoyed watching Genevieve and her sister research and piece together the facts regarding the events of their parents romance, marriage and the death of their common friend, Russell. It was nice to see someone who was a well known Christian be honest with her fans about her addiction. With a strong emphasis on truth, compassion, forgiveness, and second chances, this book was overall a good read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

I was excited to have the opportunity to read Becky Wade newest release, Stay with Me. This first book from the A Misty River Romance is probably my favorite that I have read by this author to date. I adored Sam and Genevieve's story. The setting was perfect and I loved reading the details of the area that made me feel as though I was right there.
I am giving Stay with Me a very well deserved five plus stars. I will be eagerly waiting for the next installment from the A Misty River Romance series. I highly recommend this one.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

In this new series, Ms. Wade creates a tranquil place filled with characters who are all searching for the answers of their heartache.

First up is Sam Turner and Genevieve Woodward. What I love about their story is they have lots of problems.
Now I know that my sound weird, but in a world full of problems, seeing a book address some of those and bring in the hope of God is a breath of fresh air. I loved that Ms. Wade wasn’t afraid to address grief (whether losing a person, a dream, etc.). I’m also thankful she threw in Sam as Gen’s hero because he’s a man worthy of the moniker.

Don’t let the gruff exterior fool you. Sam Turner is a marshmallow whenever Gen comes around. But its not a one-sided relationship. The bring each other’s issues to the front and turn to the answer (God).

A great start to a new series.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not required nor influenced.

This book floored me. It was quite simply amazing. Becky has truly outdone herself with this book. I am not sure I can put into words the pure beauty of this story. The characters of Genevieve and Sam were unlike any characters I have read before and they were wonderful and flawed and kept me immersed in this story along with the secondary characters. This whole story drew me in and I had trouble putting the book down at all. This book tugged all my heartstrings and that hasn't happened in a long time. Basically all there is to say is I loved everything about this book and it will go down as one of my top 2020 reads, no question. I am not sure how I will wait a year for the next book in the series...need it yesterday!!

I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

STAY WITH ME is another winning faith-based romance from Becky Wade. The beginning seemed a bit overdone for me with the whole Goldilocks theme, but after that, I was pleased with how the story developed, especially how the main characters get to know each other in a real -- and not overly sanitized or perfect -- way. They struggle with real-life issues, including addiction, which is handled sensitively and added terrific depth to the story. There's a lot going on plot-wise as the characters unravel some past mysteries. I also appreciated Wade's beautiful treatment of the faith angle.

A shameful secret leads to new beginnings.



An engaging read from the start, I loved how this book talks about the struggles behind a picture-perfect image and the pressure of those expectations. Genevieve is a gifted speaker and author, but that doesn't make her immune. Sam understands what is at stake with Gen and doesn't want to get too close, yet he knows that he doesn't have it in him to leave her on her own. I loved the complexity and the honesty to the struggles that Gen and Sam faced.



There is a lot going on in this book, with how it ties events from the past into the present and how it continues to affect them. There are great supporting characters, and the relationship between Gen and her sister is a huge strength in this story. There were also natural moments of humor, and I liked the counselor, because she doesn't mess around!



Overall, this is a well written read about two people who find each other amidst pain of the past, and facing problems in the present, while dealing with complicated relationships. I was a little baffled by parts of the lead up to the ending, as for me it didn't quite fit with the rest of the story, but that might just be me.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Becky Wade has managed to write a story that digs deeply into some extremely serious topics and situations, yet still has enough lighthearted moments to not weigh the reader down.

I must admit that after reading the first couple of chapters, I did not like Genevieve. I knew that the author would have a long way to go to redeem her as a main character for me. I viewed her as a person who hid behind her public persona and I wondered if Genevieve could actually overcome her dangerous personal secrets. Well, the author did redeem this character, and by the middle of the book I actually liked Gen and was hopeful about her outcome.

Now, Sam was a different matter. I liked him from the very beginning of the story, and actually even before that, in the prequel novella Take a Chance on Me, where he made a few appearances. His back story was heartbreaking and truly explained so much about him.

Along with the gentle romance that developed between Sam and Genevieve, one of my favorite things about this novel was reading about Genevieve and her sister digging into their parents’ past in order to try to discover if there was any truth behind the threatening letters Genevieve had been receiving. I was fascinated as the truth from the past was revealed.

Stay with Me is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance that delves into deep and difficult topics and weaves God’s grace and forgiveness throughout.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

There's something to be said for an author who can handle tough topics without making a book heavy. Becky Wade weaves humor into this story, giving it a perfect balance. As is the case with all of her books, this one gave me plenty to think about and the lessons will stick with me long after I've moved on. The characters are real and may surprise you. The mystery introduced in the very beginning will keep you turning the pages! Pay attention to the flashbacks that are present at the start of each chapter, they are there for a reason. I wish I had picked up sooner on their importance but once I did I was amazed! I recommend this book to anyone looking for romance, humor, mystery, and topics relevant today.

What do you do when a book pulls you in from the start, introduces you to characters just as flawed as you are making them more real to you than ever before understanding that they are just as flawed, they struggle, they want to be perfect so they hide behind a mask while slowly dying inside but they also want to be free from pretense so they struggle but fail became they haven't found grace but when they do, Oh the beauty of full surrender, knowing that grace covers it all, understanding the joy of letting go and letting God. This and more filled the pages of this book that has me filling every spare minute I had with wanting to know what happened with Genevieve and Sam. We see their flaws, we walk with them through their pains and struggle and cheer for them as they find themselves and find love, understand grace and realise that they are enough just as they are.
I loved every minute of this book and definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series and getting to know what happens with the Miracle Five.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are solely mine

Stay with Me is a contemporary novel written by Becky Wade.

Summary: Genevieve Woodward is worn out and needs a break. But returning home brings its own challenges. An overbearing mother, a mysterious letter, and a substance dependence bring Genevieve’s life to a crossroads.

Will Genevieve be able to pull her life back together, or will the mysterious letter lead Genevieve to discover a dangerous secret that could pull apart the very fabric of her family and destroy her career?

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this book. There was an interesting mystery, the characters were flawed yet relatable, and there was a great message of God’s redemption in the midst of past mistakes. The romance was really good as well.

It is definitely worth a read-especially if you enjoy contemporary romance novels.

I would like to thank Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review.

Now I've read a lot of Becky Wade's book over the years, and this particular version I was reading on my kindle. So somewhere along the way I didn't realize who the author was, until I finished the book.

That said, I found the book to be amazingly awesome. Loved every part of it and I appreciated the fact that I didn't go into it with preconceived ideas.

Genevieve Woodward is returning home, but makes a stop at a cottage where Sam Turner learns a secret that prior to him, only one person knew. She soon realizes that staying home is not an option, so she ask's Sam's help for helping her with her secret.

There was only one part of the book that left me puzzled, and that was the prelude at the beginning of most of the chapters of the "Miracle Five" and their thoughts during the time. At the end, I expected a different ending, at least with those bits at the beginning. The story it self was pretty awesome and didn't need any changes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

When popular Bible study author Genevieve Woodward  receives threatening letters from an anonymous source claiming to know something about her family she is led back home to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Misty River, Georgia. Upon arriving she encounters Sam Turner, a man determined to live out the rest of his life alone in order to protect those around him. Genevieve works out an agreement with Sam to live in the guest cottage on his property while researching the claims the letters made about her family and working on her new Bible study.


Stay With Me is a novel that is relevant to today and addresses the problems that people, yes even Christians, may be facing. It is a story of grace, forgiveness, and redemption. It is a beautiful story and I can't wait to read the next in the series.


I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All thoughts are my own.

Stay With Me

This was a thoroughly enjoyable contemporary romance. This is my first Becky Wade, and I really enjoyed it. I loved the characters, and I'm looking forward to getting to know them more as the series progresses. The back story of the Miracle Five is so interesting. I also loved the mystery that was woven in. It had me guessing the whole time. I highly recommend this book for readers of contemporary romance.

I received a copy of this book for review from Netgalley.

If this kiss were an ocean, he'd willingly let himself sink down, down, down until he drowned.
Just when I think I've read Becky Wade's best, she writes a new book!
Using her skill as a writer Ms. Wade creates not only characters that the reader will care about and cheer for she weaves a story line full of romance, witty banter, a cozy mystery and packs it full of spiritual truths showing God's grace to us when we are being the worst version of ourselves.
This book falls into the SWOOF acronym column...coined by my friend Rachel at BookWorm Mama. . .Squeezing Words Out Of Feelings. . .
This book hit me on so many emotional levels. Yes, I swooned, I laughed, I wanted to know what was going on with Genevieve's parents but most of all I saw God's unmatched love and grace He extends to us because He loves us. It also made me think about how we need to be more forgiving towards each other.
This is a great start to a new series by Becky Wade and I can't wait to read the next installment!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Stay With Me is such a unique story. It’s not often that an author writes something that seems so relatable. Becky Wade has a way with words, and seems proficient at taking my breath away. I first met Sam in the prequel novella Take a Chance On Me. I couldn’t wait to get to know him more, and was so excited to find out he was getting his own story. I could tell Sam had gone through some stuff, and knew it would take a one of a kind woman to break through his walls. Lucky for him Genevieve is just that. I loved getting to know them, and watch as they both learned more about themselves and each other. They had great chemistry together and I enjoyed seeing Sam’s sweet “caretaker” side. I couldn’t imagine being so addicted to something that it easily controls your life, and yet that’s just where Genevieve found herself the day she met Sam.



Genevieve has seen her share of trials, and all have led her to where she believes God wants her. Knowing she was destined to do great things has often caused her to push condemning thoughts away for another time. Until she wakes up in a stranger's house with no clue how she got there or where she is. Knowing she has no other choice but to quit, and succeed this time, Genevieve starts the journey to stop taking Oxy. If that wasn’t enough on her plate, she also needs to discover what a letter she received could possibly mean.



Genevieve embarks on a journey to learn not only more about herself, but also about the parents she feels would never hide anything from her. Being a part of the miracle five, a group of kids who survived a tragedy, has caused her mom to hang on a little tighter than most parents. Can she figure out what her parents might be hiding before it’s too late? And what about Sam and all the feelings he brings out of her? Now isn’t the time to start a relationship, but how can she not?



This book made me feel such a wide range of emotions. It’s definitely a story that is going to stay with me. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Contemporary Fiction. I receieved a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

You know how sometimes you love a book so much that you just can't even find the words? Yeah, that's me right now!

More than just a romance (though what a romance it is!), Stay with Me tackles a variety of topics: Christian celebrity culture, addiction, long-buried secrets, and the power of grace.

I loved every second I spent reading this novel—Sam and Genevieve are wonderful, both together and separately, and I loved watching their romance unfold. I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding the letter Genevieve received about her parents, and that mystery led to one of the most touching scenes of forgiveness that I've ever read. The whole novel really is about redemption and grace, and it's so beautiful.

This series centers around the "Miracle Five"—five people who miraculously survived an earthquake while on a mission trip as teenagers. Gen and her sister are two of the five; readers are also introduced to Sebastian and Ben in Stay with Me, while Luke doesn't appear (except in the flashbacks to the earthquake). Sebastian's story comes next, and, without spoiling anything, let me just say that I'm so excited to read it! The romance (and potential conflict) is set up in the final quarter of Stay with Me, and I gasped when I realized where Wade was going to take the story!

Stay with Me is a novel that will "stay with you" long after you finish reading, and I highly recommend it!

Eighteen years ago, Genevieve was one of five miracle children who survived days trapped in rubble in San Salvador, after an earthquake hits the during their junior high mission trip. Now, she’s an online celebrity, a famous author of Bible studies for women. And she’s hiding a prescription drug addiction that could destroy her career, and wondering what secrets her family is hiding. Because there is definitely something, if the anonymous letter she received is any indication.

But she knows something has to change after she wakes up in a stranger’s house with no memory of how she got there. But she can’t go to rehab. That would mean the end of her career. And there is also the question of how her parents will react, especially her overprotective mother.

Sam Turner is an Australian American who owns his own coffee shop and is a big advocate of healthy eating and healthy lifestyles. (Okay, so the one thing I’m not convinced about is a man who voluntarily eats kale, but there you go.) Anyway, Sam agrees—against his better judgement—to help Genevieve detox.

Stay With Me is a strong romance with excellent characters. It’s strong Christian fiction, because faith is central to both Genevieve and Sam’s lives. But the real strength is the way it deals with Genevieve’s addition, an issue that’s rarely discussed in Christian fiction, and the subtle warning against putting other Christians—especially Christian leaders—on pedestals.

Stay With Me is a great start to a new series, a Christian novel that isn’t afraid to ask tough questions about faith and life. Recommended.

Thanks to Baker Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

Stay with Me by Becky Wade

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

______________________________________________________________________________

Story Notes

Becky Wade’s much anticipated new series begins with a powerful story that takes on the world of prescription drugs and letting go of the identity facade that public figures often maintain.

I have been very anxiously awaiting this book’s release! I read the prequel novella Take a Chance on Me in March and signed up immediately for the chance at an ARC for this book. Ms. Wade takes familiar plot lines and makes them fresh with delightful characters that have real flaws alongside real determination to overcome them. This story begins with a man named Sam Turner finding a lovely woman asleep in his guesthouse. He has never seen her before and has no idea why she is here. Waking her proves to be unsuccessful so Sam looks around to find out something about her. Her purse reveals her wallet and name but nothing suspicious inside. A small container in the outside pocket, however, contains prescription medication that would keep this young woman deeply asleep for some time. But she can’t stay here so he tries to wake her again, this time with more success. Genevieve Woodward is startled to find herself in a strange room with a strange man leaning over her, calling her name. Realizing she has been sleeping in someone’s house brings her wide awake with the further terrifying realization that she doesn’t remember anything about how she got there. She’s been taking pain killers for over a year now, following a painful ankle surgery, but as she now uses them for relaxation instead of pain, it’s clearly become a bigger problem. Determined to clear them from her system, Genevieve comes up with a plan of action. But she’ll need help to pull it off; namely Sam’s help and the use of his cottage. Sam doesn’t like the idea of leasing his guesthouse to Genevieve while she detoxes but when she lets him set the rules for her stay and promises to makeover the cottage while she stays, he finally agrees. Sam knows the struggle Genevieve will be facing firsthand, and while he is agreeable to her mission, he makes her promise not to fall in love with him. Laughing at that idea, Genevieve agrees and sets about making her temporary home habitable. But this detox will be harder than she bargained for and keeping it from her parents and sister until she is ready to tell them proves nearly impossible. She came home to Misty River with the cover story of resting and writing but this detox will be the most important thing she has ever done, even with all the best-selling Bible studies she’s written. Genevieve has been blessed for years with a gift of words and speaking and she’s never had such a battle to fight before. How will the many people she’s spoken to and written for over the years handle the knowledge that she has fallen so easily into this destructive behavior? Putting those worries to the side for the moment, Genevieve plunges into the world of cold turkey detox. Sam offers help in the form of food deliveries, a listening ear and the push to talk to a therapist throughout her process. As she works her way through the long days and nights, Genevieve searches for a new focus for her time. Letters have been coming to her publisher in her name that refer to some event or tragedy in the past that involves her parents. But with neither of them seeming to understand the purpose of such letters, Genevieve is left to puzzle this out herself. Her sister Natasha becomes her first confidant outside Sam to her withdrawal and her decision to find out who sent the letters and why. While Natasha is shocked she quickly recovers and gladly agrees to help Genevieve with both problems. Their quest for answers will bring far more than they counted on and will open up a whole new understanding of the words mercy and grace. Genevieve will also have the chance at love with Sam if he can move beyond the demons of his past and let God heal his brokenness. There is so much more to this story than I can reasonably tell here. Ms. Wade really delves into the reality of the hold that drugs and lies can have on people, even those who are Christians. Christ followers are not immune to temptation and fallacy and that is one of the main points that she is sharing through the story. Often we hold our Christian “leaders” up to such high standards, it may be difficult or impossible for them to tell others when they are facing an intense struggle. In this story, Genevieve never felt she had the right to complain or feel disappointed with anything in her life because she felt like she was so blessed. But God never calls us to be perfectly happy all the time. He tells us to call out to Him in our pain and despair so that He can rescue us and give us contentment in Him. I loved the journey that Genevieve went on throughout the pages and really identified with her in her beliefs about having such a blessed life. I cried, laughed and rejoiced with her as she fell to the bottom of herself and found everything she was looking for when she finally looked up at the One who loves her best. I also found myself drawn to Sam and his closed off nature. His past pain and sorrow had led him to Christ but he hadn’t really let go of all his fears concerning love. The slow opening of his heart to Genevieve also gave him a reason to open his heart fully to God and let his soul be fully healed as well. There was so much to love about this story and I can’t remember any issues I had with it. The flashbacks that were added about The Miracle Five were also well done but I’m not going to spoil that part of the story by telling it. I will most certainly be recommending this story very highly to others and hope that they love it as I do. I’m ordering a copy for my shelves and I plan to reread it very soon. Can’t wait for the next one in the series!

I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

Stay With Me by Becky Wade is another heart pounding,powerful, sweet romance that will capture your attention. The first novel in the new Misty River series.

Popular Bible study author and motivational speaker Genevieve Woodward finds herself in a strangers guest house. When Aussie Sam Turner finds her, he wants her out! But Gen finds a way to rent the cottage, and even with all his walls up, Sam finds his heart melting.

Becky Wade has written a beautiful story about two troubled people, who find themselves in life's situations as they face the struggles of pain and loneliness. There is so much going on in this story that captures your heart and attention. Gen's flashbacks about the Miracle Five and Sam's feelings of guilt are reflected back as they work through their faith and find forgiveness in themselves.

This story is one of hope, love, redemption and forgiveness. Ms Wades ability to use words to magnify the depth of feelings surrounding the struggles of addictions gives place to the very real problems many face today. And the relationship between Sam and Gen blossoms and blooms as their struggles draws them together.

Becky Wades books have always captured me, as she has a way of bringing her characters to life in such moving ways.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

Becky Wade has a winner in this well written Christian romance. It is one that will tug at the heart strings. Genevieve is a Christian author who has become addicted to a prescription drug and realizes she can't be true to her followers and God and continue to use them. She determines to quit and secludes herself in a rented cabin, so she thinks. to detox. The man who owns the cabin, Sam, wants nothing to do with her and tells her up front, Stay Away. So touching and emotional to read of her struggle and his reaction to her struggle. There is also a mystery surrounding  her parents she is searching to find an answer to. All in all this is one great interesting read......Loved everything about it.

Stunning, continually evolving plot that will unravel in totally unexpected ways. Becky Wade is an author that can handle the toughest of subjects in a realistic and serious tone, while inserting a depth for each and every character she writes. At times I contemplated the direction the story was going and wondered if I’d really be able to connect with what was happening on the page. I’ve come to expect this as part of the process of something that it so well written, you don’t need to be hooked from the first page. It’s a process, there’s intensity, there’s questions and then there’s the “aha” moment, and you’re racing to the finish line.

The ways in which she also incorporates beautiful messages of hope and love of God within the story, always leave me feeling lifted as a reader.

There were two passages towards the conclusion that I had to re-read several times, due to the powerful message of grace.

She is a contemporary fiction author I’ve come to appreciate for everything but the fluff - with a knack for writing chemistry as a bonus.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. This is my honest review.

Becky Wade quickly became one of my favorite authors when I read her Porter Family series and she cemented that position with the amazing, swoon worthy and award-winning Bradford Sister Romance series. Stay With Me kicks off her new Misty River Romance series that promises to be AMAZING! I adored everything about this book. The characters were so intriguing from extreme people person Genevieve and borderline hermit Sam, Natasha and her “Year of Living Austenly,” unlikely brothers at heart Ben and Sebastian, who I hope to see in their own books, and Genevieve and Natasha’s quirky parents who aren’t as boring as they appear.

Wade tackles some heavy topics in this book and deals with themes of truth and transparency. You’ll probably want to have the tissues ready for this one as there are a couple moments that have the potential to be ugly cry inducing. The set up for the next installment in the series leads me to suspect it will be a beautiful, tearjerker as well. If you’re a romance fan Becky Wade is a must read, just be ready to binge her backlist once you finish this stunner.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

This first book in Becky Wade’s new series sets a different tone for her in some ways but is a combination of everything I love about her stories in others. Although she has featured taciturn characters in the past (Jake Porter in A Love Like Ours and even John Lawson in True to You come to mind), Sam’s distinctly non-social tendencies elevate him to a whole other level of taciturn. Couple that with Genevieve’s addiction to pain killers and her investigation into her parents’ past and the scene is set for a more sombre story than readers have seen from Wade so far. On the other hand, the pairing of a hero and heroine who are at opposite ends of the introvert/extrovert spectrum is the perfect recipe for the lively and enjoyable character interactions I’ve grown to love in Wade’s stories.

And really, Sam and Genevieve—particularly how well their characters were developed and portrayed—were a huge part of what made this such an enjoyable read for me. The fact that Sam is Australian was certainly a point in his favour 😉 and I loved that this came through in subtle ways, such as little differences in vocabulary and a preference for drying his washing on a clothes line rather than in a dryer. But it was the contrasts and contradictions in their characters that really breathed life into the story. Sam presents as taciturn and even gruff, but his emotions run deep and he feels things intensely. Genevieve is charming and confident, but in many ways she’s also insecure and a little lost. And despite being so completely different to each other, there was palpable chemistry between them—romantic and otherwise.

But even more than all that, I love the spiritual themes Wade has explored through Sam and Gen’s story. “The truth will set you free” is such a well-known maxim these days it’s become somewhat clichèd, but this story brought it home in a way that felt like a fresh revelation. I got completely caught up in every aspect of the story—Gen’s battle over her addiction, the investigation into her parents’ past, and Sam’s reluctance to accept the vulnerability that comes with relationships—and the hints for where the second book in this series is headed have well and truly whet my appetite for more.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

I absolutely, unequivocally, without a doubt adore Stay with Me by Becky Wade. This story walloped my heart. I chuckled. I cried. I got frustrated. I cheered. And I swooned! Stay with Me is jam-packed with so many inspirational moments I may have overwhelmed the highlight function on my Kindle. LOL! But in all seriousness, this book is gold. It’s well-written. It’s heartfelt. And, it illustrates well some of God’s truths and His grace. I met unique, damaged, endearing characters that I won’t soon forget. And, I learned a little bit more about who I am and who I want to be. Stay with Me by Becky Wade is a can’t-be-missed, must-read novel. I highly, highly recommend this story.

Stay with Me is a story about hiding our true selves from the world and sharing only that which makes us look “perfect.” Why do we hide? Because many people enjoy shaming and tearing down others. If we make a mistake, not only will we have to deal with our own feelings of shame and inadequacy, but we will have to deal with the meanness of others who revel in our failings. We care about what others think. We want people to think we are good, honorable women and men who live godly, respectful lives. So, we hide who we truly are. We put on a society-approved mask and hide everything “bad” about ourselves. We do this long enough and the society-approved mask becomes our identity. When we slip and show a moment of our true self, the world is left aghast and we are left ashamed and embarrassed. Everyone makes mistakes, but for some reason in our current day and age, we are not allowed to actually make mistakes. The world has lost sight of humility, grace, and forgiveness, and people are suffering because of it.

Inside all of us is a right vs. wrong meter. It’s different in everyone, but it’s there. It’s that feeling you get in the pit of your chest when you know with every fiber of your being that you are doing something wrong or something right. Some call it conscience. I call it the Holy Spirit. Genevieve, the heroine of Stay with Me, looks like the perfect Christian. She has written highly-acclaimed Bible studies, she has spoken at packed-out churches, she has millions of followers on all her social media platforms, and she’s even part of the Miracle 5 (read the book to find out what this means). Genevieve looks like she has it all: a supportive mother and father, an older sister who is also her best friend, the sweetest niece and nephew, tons of money, the latest fashions, and a super cute home. While the outside picture, for Genevieve, is true, it’s not a 100% accurate picture of who she is. Gen has some really scary issues she must deal with or she could end up hurt, dead, or the reason someone else is hurt or dead. But to deal with these issues means she will have to come clean to everyone — her bosses, her family, and her followers. Gen struggles with the idea of revealing her truth because she knows she’s going to be treated to a hefty dish of meanness, belittling, and emotional scourging by the world. So, she covers up her right vs. wrong meter and keeps being the “perfect” Christian. This lying, this Holy Spirit shut down, makes it impossible for Gen to hear God. And this is the great truth Stay with Me forces the reader to wrestle with: who are we living this life for?

1 John 2:15 states, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” Genevieve’s number one conflict in this novel is that she cannot feel God’s presence in her life anymore. But she is unwilling to speak her truth, to show who she really is, to accept God’s grace in the truthtelling. She doesn’t want to lose her status as “Best Christian Woman Ever.” Because of this, because she is stuck in the world of her own making, she is no longer in the Father. This is why she cannot feel God’s presence. Yes, writing Bible studies is awesome. Talking to standing-room-only crowds about God is a great thing. Sharing God on social media platforms is exactly what is needed — social media is a DARK place and needs a lot of LIGHT. But to close off her right vs. wrong meter and choose all these worldly aspects of Christianity over being right and honest with God is to choose a secular world over a phenomenal Father, and we cannot kid ourselves into believing that our Christian actions are good enough when we are not right with God. I won’t share how Gen learns this lesson because the moment is stellar, but I will say its impact on me will be lifelong and one I won’t soon forget.

Stay with Me is an excellent story and it has affected me deeply. Yes, it is well-written and fast-paced and highly engaging. Yes, the characters are fantastic and the romance is perfect. But Stay with Me is a must-read novel because of the timely themes and their impact on the reader. This story is heart-changing and for that, I highly, highly recommend this beautiful novel.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via Prism Book Tours and NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This book. This book jumped right into hard things and did it with grace and hope. Christian influencer culture, prescription drug additions, accidents, blackmail, forgiveness.

Genevieve is a Bible study author and Christian influencer with a shameful secret. One she has tried to humanly justify, but she now must come to terms with. I love the way Becky Wade handles this healing—raw, real, and with compassion. She doesn't shy away from the realistic thoughts, struggles, and very human and relatable "justifying" thought patterns.

Sam is living the dream taking care of a historic farm, growing fruits and vegetables and running his own farm-to-table restaurant. But he has demons of his own and keeps everyone at arms length. He has a heart of gold, though, so it's fun to see the glimpses of his heart in between his stand=offishness.

We read these books because we know they're going to end up together, we just don't know how, so I don't consider this a spoiler. The way Genevieve and Sam's relationship develops and the growth and fears and pain the two of them experience is so real and raw. Nothing they do seems like they had to do it because it "is what needed to be done to follow the story." It felt true to both the characters and genuinely being a human.

Additionally, there is a side plot with a secret from the past of Genevieve's parents and the delight that is Genevieve's Jane Austen=quoting (and knitting. badly) sister.

If you like Christian fiction that has straight up TRUTH in it, you should definitely check this one out. It doesn't preach at you or even to the characters, but walks along the characters as they learn and grow deeper into love, grace, and vulnerability.

We Christians like to appear as though we’ve got our lives together. That we don’t struggle with sin or wrestle with God. But we all do. And Becky Wade tackles that very issue in Stay with Me.

This story is about a heroine who is often in the spotlight praising and teaching about Jesus. But in the darkness, she’s lost and turning to things other than God to help her cope with life. At her lowest point, Genevieve meets Sam. A man who has also been broken by life and now lives his solitary life in protective mode.

I loved Sam and Gen because they are so real—courageously real—with each other. Yes, it takes Sam a little longer to open up to Gen, but it is her struggle that centers this story.

Wade delves into the toll that hiding from others and hiding from God takes on our relationships, or productivity, and our decisions. Stay with Me is an encouragement to live our lives out loud, to be honest and transparent with those people closest to us, to lean into the support God surrounds us with even when we are ashamed of our choices.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Becky Wade delivered an amazing story of forgiveness, acceptance of who we are and moving on to the life that God has called you to. Genevieve's struggle is something that we can all relate to if we are honest with ourselves. We are so busy doing things for God that we neglect our personal relationship with Him. We are overwhelmed with doing and fall into the trap of self-reliant. Sam is another great character in this story. He wants to be alone after feeling like he let the woman he loved die. He is a man whose nature is to help people out. He doesn't realize that it draws people to him. He met Genevieve in her hour of need and becomes her friend despite himself. I loved this story and these characters. They are all flawed but redeemable.

I received this book from the publisher and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I've been reading Becky Wade books for a long time now. She's definitely a favorite of mine in the Christian fiction genre. She creates wonderful characters with substance and personality. It's what I love most, I think.

This book has many different sides to it. Both Sam and Gen have demons they are fighting. They are flawed but inherently good. You can feel their goodness and their desires clearly. I love how the backstories for both Gen and Sam built as the book progressed. We get Sam's a bit faster which was helpful in understanding his struggles with Gen in particular. To add even another layer, Gen and her sister are involved in an investigation of sorts, which brought some mystery and intrigue to the story. It was interesting and engaging the whole way through and I really found myself loving the characters in this story. Becky Wade made that easy to do.

Content: heavier on the Christian elements, drug abuse, kissing. Light mention of abuse, murder.

I loved “Stay With Me” by Becky Wade. This was the first book I’ve read by Becky Wade, but it won’t be my last. This book is an inspirational romance but it had some mystery in it, which I loved. I loved the main characters, Genevieve and Sam. Becky Wade did such a great job in making you feel like you are really part of the story. This book will stay with me for awhile.

I definitely recommend this book if you enjoy good, clean, romance with a little mystery books.

I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Story Line: 5 Stars
Depth: 5 Stars
Faith: 5 Stars
Love Story: 5 Stars
Overall: 5 Stars


It is always such a joy to bring you yet another new book to add to our Golden List! The first novel in Becky Wade's newest Misty River series is a true winner through and through, and knocked it out of the park in every category.

Genevieve Woodward, by all appearances, has it all together. As one of the "Miracle Five" who survived a devastating earthquake in her teen years, and now, at thirty years old, a best-selling Bible study author, teacher and speaker, life is pretty good. From the outside she appears to be perfect. But she is hiding a devastating secret: her addiction to opioid painkillers. On top of this, she has begun receiving threatening notes hinting to secrets in her family's background.

One morning she wakes up in a strange cottage with the owner staring down at her, with no memory of how she got there or where she is. When she realizes she needs to get clean, the man who found her - Sam Turner - agrees to rent this cottage to her, knowing she will need much support and help in the coming days. As Gen works to break her dependence on prescription drugs, she also sets about researching and uncovering any scandals in her family's history with Sam and her sister Natasha.

The storyline, weaving together mystery, the very real struggle of addiction recovery and a some little memories from the earthquake she was rescued from, blend flawlessly together so the reader is kept on their toes. But the faith and love story are what really shine in this novel!!! God reveals himself to characters in faithful ways and shows us the reality of His unconditional love and grace. The love story between Sam and Gen zings with electricity but is also intensely real as they learn how to navigate addiction recovery, trust, and risking safety for love.

Be sure to pick this novel up as soon as you can, and stay up a few late nights reading!

Excellent storyline. Well written characters. Overall a great read. I couldn’t put it down. The depth of the story and the characters was amazing. They were real, they struggled, they weren’t perfect, and not everything worked out in their favor. There were a few times where I got confused in the details. Like I had missed something. But it didn’t affect the understanding of the story. The spiritual thread was natural and not forced feeling. Another story to love from Becky Wade. She doesn’t disappoint.
I received a digital copy from netgalley. I was under no requirement to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

A miraculous rescue when Genevieve was only twelve led her into a career as a Bible study teacher and writer. An injury to her ankle led her down a slippery slope she wasn't even aware she was on. The secrets she hid strangled her relationship with God, making Him seem distant. . .

When the handsome Australian farmer and restaurateur, Sam, discovered Gen in his guesthouse, he confronted her with a truth she was loathe to accept. The mirror he shined into her heart reflected an image she was ashamed of. And determined to correct.

Determined, also, to solve the mystery behind the anonymous letter she received, Gen worked with her sister Natasha to ferret out the secret her parents are clearly concealing. The truth was almost more than they could handle and threatened to send Gen back into the mire she had only begun to escape!

The story of the Miracle Five is slowly revealed as introductions to each chapter. The events of that week had a profound impact on all five, four of whom remain close friends to this day. It is strongly hinted that we will learn more about Ben and Sebastian and that their story is going to be profound! I hope Luke's story will also be told in a future book. He needs a happy ending!

Genevieve's older sister, Natasha, was also one of the "Miracle Five". She was a riot! I loved her obsession with everything Jane Austen and her year of "living Austenly". She would quote Austen's works whenever she could fit them into the situation, invited friends over to play whist, and shunned television for more appropriate pursuits like knitting (which she was terrible at) and listening to the pianoforte. Her poor husband!

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. What I really liked about this book is that it reminds people that no-one in ministry is perfect - which I think that we as Christians so often forget as we ask a lot of those in ministry. I liked flawed characters that are redeemed and this book provided that.

The big theme in this book is forgiveness and coming to grips with the past. Both main characters have interesting backstories (I don't want to give you any spoilers) as well as the side characters who also play a big role in this book. The threads of the story also set it up for at least 2 other books - which I am definitely aiming to read!

This book is unapologetically Christian and this theme is woven throughout the book. There are no sex scenes or bad language.

Would I read it if I had to pay for it? Yes I would. I enjoy Becky Wade's books and have read all of them. I have also suggested them for purchase at two different libraries. You can get the prequel to the series free on the author's website.

(4.5 Stars) This beautiful story has many facets and lessons embedded within. Gen and Sam are phenomenal characters with flaws and strengths that add depth and dimension to who they are. Wade does a fantastic job of embracing the hard and wrapping it up with hope and goodness, allowing the reader to follow along on an inspirational journey.

I love these character's voices, as their personalities shine through their words and actions. Sam is steady and stalwart, while Gen is more vibrant and social. They way they come together, even with resistance, is heartwarming, especially as they each have demons they face and stories to unfold through the course of the book.

Amidst the small town charm, a small mystery develops, which succeeds to add another layer to this already great story. My only wish was to see the characters in the prequel show up more. All in all, this is a wonderfully engaging tale and I can't wait for more.

Content: mild+ romance; moderate religion; talk of drug addiction, some vague/past abuse, and murder.

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

Stay with Me is a deeply touching story of addiction and the hard road to recovery wrapped in God’s sweet mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Wade does not pull any punches with her latest contemporary, touching on issues that are often swept under the rug.

Genevieve and Sam are both hiding from the brutal fallout of opioid addiction but for different reasons. I was rooted to the pages of their story and could not help but feel the stress and expectations that are present for many people. Often times, we hide behind a mask of all-is-well when in reality it is definitely not. Who can we turn to and be vulnerable with, without feeling as if we will be judged? How quick a medication, or anything we put before God in our life, can become an idol of addiction.

If you are a fan of Becky Wade books, you will definitely like this one. She is a master at weaving a story with deep emotion and strong faith. She makes you cheer for fictional characters as if they’re friends.

I was provided an electronic copy of the book through the publisher and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Becky Wade is an author I can count on with each and every book she's writes, as there is not one yet that I haven't loved! "Stay with Me" is the first book in her brand-new Misty River Romance series and this is an excellent start (besides the prequel novella "Take A Chance On Me," that is also available now!).
Stay with Me (Misty River Romance, A): Wade, Becky: 9780764235603 ...
Genevieve and Sam are the two main characters in this novel; however we are introduced to other characters whom are going to be playing major roles in the upcoming novels in the series. When Genevieve was a young teen, she and a group of her peers made national news when they were trapped and survived several days following an earthquake. Genevieve's life has been forever changed following this time. When she receives a letter that is not quite the same as the other fan mail she receives, she knows she must find out the answers, even when it means going behind her loving, devoted parents' backs. Sam is living a quiet life, doing what he enjoys and yet he gets drawn into helping Genevieve, partly from guilt and partly because she really does not give him much choice. These two, among other characters, must face their pasts and issues in order to truly be healed and find closure.
I really enjoyed this book, the setting, the characters, the intrigue and the flashbacks. I loved how the time frames and stories switch back and forth with present day, the earthquake event and the story that involves Genevieve's parents from years ago. This book will leave you wanting to spend time at Sam's home, farm and restaurant and learning from one of many Genevieve's Bible studies.

I highly recommend this sweet story of healing and love!

Stay with Me is genuinely marinated in grit and shame yet seasoned with grace and authenticity. Yes, my reader heart was trampled by heavy emotion but the empathy gained is well worth the cost. Grief, substance abuse, guilt, secrets, and shame play important roles in the lives of these characters and they are crafted with transparency and heart.

A simple small-town girl who happens to be a quasi-famous Christian celebrity meets ridiculously handsome Aussie-American foodie guy who lives in a historic mountain valley… a purely wonderful storyline without all the baggage. Stay with Me is more than that. It is exquisitely complex and I highly recommend it. We need more stories like this one to make us think and feel and learn what we may not know we need.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Stay With Me by Becky Wade is the author’s best work to date. I have long been a fan of this author’s work and she has won awards that were well deserved. But this book— it stands alone. Ms Wade is not afraid to take on difficult, timely topics and take them on thoroughly. I highly recommend this novel to readers of all genres because its topic of addiction is so important in today’s world. So good! You’ll be sad to see the book end. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Ah-mazing. This author is seriously skilled at bringing out all the feels! I love that when I read a Becky Wade book I know I will emotionally connect to the characters, and that they don't have to be perfect, but their flaws make them more realistic and relatable. The strong spiritual thread leaves me feeling inspired and uplifted, and the message of redemption and forgiveness is one that everyone can appreciate. There is a perfect balance struck between the introspective angst and the lighter moments that brought a smile to my face as I read. Sam is my favorite in this one with his compassion and kindness, and I loved the way he allowed Gen to bring him out of his darkness. Some of the themes and struggles tackled are pretty heavy, but they are explored with grace that prompts self-reflection in the reader. The history of the earthquake survivors and the mystery of Gen's parents bring even more layers and depth to the story, and I'm so excited for the upcoming books in the series that will feature the Miracle Five.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)

Stay with Me stands as a prime example of why Becky Wade rates as one of my favorite contemporary romance writers. So many elements worked together to form this beautiful story. It had Pride and Prejudice quotes, laugh-out-loud humor, emotional drama, family secrets, and an unfolding romance. The story held my attention as the characters dealt with tough issues such as prescription drug addiction, trauma, and following God’s leading. To me, the story didn’t feel dark or heavy, but I recognize that it could be more difficult for those who know someone struggling with prescription drug addiction or have fought that battle themselves. Thankfully, there is so much hope and truth in Stay with Me.

As I reviewed my notes on Stay with Me, I found seventeen topics or issues that the novel touched on. There are probably some that I missed. Though the story taps so many issues, it focuses in on only a few and wraps up beautifully in the end. I recommend Stay with Me to readers who enjoy contemporary romances with plenty of character development and spiritual truths.

Stay with Me by Becky Wade debuts as the first full-length novel in the Misty River Romance series. There is a prequel, Take a Chance on Me, in which Sam appears as a minor character; however, it is not necessary to read the prequel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this ebook by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Becky Wade is one of my favorite contemporary romance writers. I don’t even read the back cover blurb because I know I will like her books because she has never let me down.

I’m not even sure where to start.

How about with the romance? Becky knows how to light a fire under her characters and develop a romance that will have you cheering them on. Sam basically has to face his worst fears when he meets Genevieve and Genevieve needs to start being real with herself and along the way they try not to love each other.

How about Genevieve’s issues? As someone in ministry myself I can relate to the fact that you feel like you can’t be real because people see you one way on the stage, but wonder if they knew the struggles you were really going through? Would they still love you, respect you? Very tough topics in this book.

How about the mystery? That is what I love about Becky’s books. She always has some kind of mystery involved in the story. This is a good one that had me wondering what in the world was going on.

So did I like this book? Yes!! I loved it and can’t wait to read more in this series, which the ground work is beautifully laid out in this book.


A copy of this book was given to me. All opinions are my own.

“He’d been living in a black-and-white world. She was Technicolor.”

This book, y’all. Sometimes the books you love the most are the hardest to review because you have so much to say but can’t find words that will do it justice. Stay With Me is such a book.

One of the first things that sets this book apart for me is the way it respectfully and honestly deals with tough issues like addiction and at the same time maintains a sense of humor and tenderness throughout. (The scene where Sam gets roped into Gen’s therapy session had me laughing out loud.) Not many authors can achieve this balance well – Cynthia Ruchti & Pepper Basham are two others who come immediately to mind – but Wade has done a stellar job.

Both protagonists are infinitely likable and relatable. Sam is a charming-but-brooding hero with a yummy Australian accent, a farm-to-table restaurant (and the farm to go with it) and a secret shame. Genevieve is a tangle of energy, genuineness, wit, faith, and heart. Apart from her secret shame, she makes the perfect women’s Bible study leader (and anyone who’s done women’s Bible study will chuckle at Sam’s introduction to the teaching videos & workbook). The two of them together are truly a delight – even before the kissing starts but definitely after as well.

There are so many layers to Stay With Me. From addiction to family dynamics to even the Christian celebrity culture and our transparency (or lack thereof) with fellow Jesus-followers, it is a story that tackles these things head on but covers them all with grace and redemption. There’s also an underlying backstory to Gen, her sister and 3 of their friends that we receive through flashbacks from different characters’ perspectives – I’m really intrigued to see where the other characters’ stories go from here & if the bit of a teaser we get in the later chapters of Stay With Me is any indication, Sebastian’s story will be a doozie!

"Why was it so hard for Christians to come clean to one another about the sins that had them by their throats? Because of pride? Because every Christian wanted every other Christian to think they were doing it right? That they were strong and good? If so, that was idiotic."

Bottom Line: Wow. Becky Wade has always written exquisitely perfect books, but Stay With Me takes this exquisite perfection to new levels – with the exquisite imperfection of her characters. I loved every moment spent with Gen & Sam – the witty banter, the tender friendship, the smokin hot kisses. But this is so much more than a story of two people falling in love. It’s about broken people finding grace & healing. It’s heartfelt and sincere, often sobering & equally often hilarious as the scene allows. And every word is on pitch & thoughtful. This is definitely one of my top reads for 2020 so far – highly recommended!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

This was a sweet story with a good back story. It had great pace and intense moments. It was a unique read that keeps you fully engrossed.

I've enjoyed each Becky Wade book I've read and Stay with Me was no different. The thing I really liked about this book was that it didn't shy away from hard things.

The opioid crisis is real and relevant in our society, and I like that this book showed that it could happen to anyone. But that wasn't an excuse to continue in sin. We all allow something to take priority over our relationship with God. And most of us wear masks so others can't see our flaws. What a timely reminder that we can't hide from God, and He is the only one who can satisfy.

The characters were real and relatable. There was more focus on physical appearance than I would have liked but honestly, that's pretty realistic too. This book helped me look at my own life and ask questions about how honest I am with others, myself, and God. It's hard to have a book that focuses this much on the Christian walk but doesn't come across as preachy. I think Becky Wade accomplished it.

I’m blown away by this book! Touching on a full range of emotions at a heart and faith level, Stay With Me is a stunning, grace-filled story of romance and redemption. This is one of my “Becky Wade” favorites, ranked up there with True to You. (And can I say how fun it is that Becky is not afraid of using exclamation marks!!!)

Both Gen and Sam are realistic characters with relatable quirks. Their journey is a heartfelt, page-turning one with their friendship at the center. Gen and her struggles are completely relatable, even if some of her particular issues aren’t familiar ones for some readers. (I can’t say more because spoilers!) But I will say the challenge to stay “on top” and to thrive, especially if a public image is a concern, was a brave and timely aspect for Becky Wade to explore at great depth. The family history Gen starts to uncover, too, is riveting and interesting!


Now it’s time to talk about SAM. Sam talks to plants, he’s Australian (which means an adorable accent), and HE BAKES. If that doesn’t make you fall in love with him, his gentlemanly actions and kindness will! He notices Gen’s quirks, virtues, and negative traits. He sees the big picture where she’s concerned. I feel like Sam’s perception of Gen elevates Stay With Me in the genre because it captures real-world details like this in many aspects: with Sam and Gen’s romance, with Gen and her family, with the friends and supporting characters. Gen’s zest for life draws Sam out of the shadows of his own choosing — I loved seeing that happen, too.

I appreciate how the romance, especially in Becky Wade’s unique voice, is sexy yet clean. This is a prime example of how the inspirational romance genre CAN have heat and convey a real, respectful sense of desire without crossing any inappropriate lines.

Becky Wade deals with hard truths with a balance of grace and honesty in all of her novels. This honesty, in Stay With Me‘s case, confronts things like pride, accountability, grace in our failings, and even guilt and loss. This list is not something that’s ticked off here and there. Instead, the story embodies these themes as naturally as Sam and Gen’s romance grows; steadily and like second nature.

I have to give a shoutout here to Genevieve’s sister, Natasha, and her “Year of living Austenly” she’s attempting in the novel. Yes, Austenly like Jane Austen and no television. Hobbies like knitting. I *really* need a short story set at Christmas about Natasha and her husband, Wyatt. With all the Austen things. Knitted gifts and drawing room card games. Tea and brown paper packages.

I’m very excited for the rest of the series, and seeing this special group of friends interact and grow closer!

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.

There are some stories that lightly feather your emotions and some that just whack you in all the feels. Stay with Me is the latter in the best possible way.

Having been a Becky Wade fan for a while, I had no doubt this would be a great story, but this-This!- book far exceeded my expectations. And my fangirl levels are soaring off the charts, because not only did this novel have layered-yet-relatable characters, an Intriguing plot, and a swoon-worthy romance, but the author tackled a delicate subject with brilliant strokes of grace.

The scenes were so vivid I wanted to pack my bags and head toward Misty River. Seriously Sam’s house and Gen’s cottage (well, Sam insists it’s a guesthouse) is my kind of charming! And can we just talk about Sam for a bit.
SAM!!!!
Okay, he has such a tender heart. He knows it, Gen knows it, the reader knows it, but he was still so scared to open up again because of past hurt. His protectiveness and devotion was super endearing. I could probably gush on and on about Sam because he was that beautiful. Yes beautiful.

In true Becky Wade fashion, this series has an amazing cast of secondary characters. Natasha is by far my favorite. She’s an Austen fan and quotes Pride and Prejudice like a boss. We could be besties.

I love the spiritual theme woven throughout the pages. It reminds me of that verse- in my weakness, His strength is made perfect. In our struggles, God shows up and shows up BIG! That’s what resonated with me while turning the pages of this amazing story! I give it all the stars!

** I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

Stay with Me is a welcome change to your typical Christian romance. In this page turning romance, we see our characters deal with drug addiction, honesty, and ultimately how the truth will set us free to receive grace. I highly recommend and was unable to put this book down until the very end.

Stay with Me, the first book in Becky Wade‘s Misty River Romance series, is a sweet romance that wrestles the topics of trauma, addiction, and secrets. Sam Turner, who readers meet in Take a Chance on Me, prefers his solitude, but when he discovers a stranger asleep in his empty guest house, his world is turned upside down.

Genevieve Woodward is a successful Bible study author and speaker. After receiving a threatening letter, she returns home to Misty River to find answers. Except, she’s harboring a secret of her own: a prescription drug addition. When it causes her to black out in a random guy’s guesthouse, she realizes she has to get clean. Her past few attempts failed, but Sam Turner’s guest house held the perfect balance of someone to keep an eye on her and the privacy she needed to be successful.

I don’t think I’ve read a Christian Fiction story that so unabashedly showed someone struggling with addiction and recovery. It was refreshing to read the honest take. Becky Wade also avoided making it melodramatic. Readers rooted for Genevieve to stay clean, even as she faced pitfalls to her recovery. It was also refreshing to read about the hidden side of what a (fictional) famous Christian personality could go through. Like Sam, I saw Genevieve as too loud and too pushy, but seeing her real personality emerge endeared her to not just Sam.

I highly recommend reading Stay with Me. Of course, if addition and trauma are triggers for you, this may or may not be the best book to read. But for anyone who wants to a refreshing take on these topics, definitely pick up a copy. The story continues in the next book in the series.

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I received this book free from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.”

Stay with Me by Becky Wade is the first book in the Misty River series. Genevieve Woodward has it all a successful career as a Christian author and motivational speaker, but she is hiding a secret of opioid addiction. A mysterious blackmail letter concerning her parents' past sends her back to her hometown to investigate. When her addiction sends her spiraling out of control, she takes refuge in a nearby cottage of Sam Turner. He volunteers to help her through withdrawal. Together, they unite to discover her parents' secrets and find out more than they bargained for including romantic feelings for each other. Wade has started off another great series.

A well written lovely novel that deals with how past choices affect the present. Beautifully depicted, lovely characters, great Christian message.

Stay with Me
by Becky Wade
Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Romance
Pub Date 05 May 2020


I am reviewing a copy of Stay With Me through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:




A strange and mysterious letter hinting to a secret in her parents past draws Genevieve Woodward back to her Blue Ridge Mountains hometown, but she needs a break from her high profile career that has left her burned out, and hiding a powerful secret of her own. Waking up in a cottage she does not know, with a confused owner staring down at her, she realizes she can no longer deny she needs help.





Sam Turner embraces his sadness as well as being an outsider. The solitary, disciplined life he lives on his historic farm is the life he's chosen for himself. He certainly does not want to rent his cottage to a woman who is both troubled and talkative. Yet he can’t turn her away when she obviously needs him.


As Genevieve researches her family’s history the emotions between her and Sam deepen. They have to let go of the facades and loneliness they've clung to and allow light to illuminate every hidden truth.



I give Stay With Me five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

Becky Wade engages readers with this emotional contemporary romance and draws you in with her characters real world problems. Stay With Me addresses very real struggles while peeling back the layers of hope by facing them head on. The main female character, Genevieve, is a Bible study author with secrets that could devastate her career. Sam, the main male character, is living the life of a farmer in order to shut out his past and stay secluded. Their paths cross in an unusual way and they struggle to let go of their own reservations to move toward the future. Lies, secrets and trauma will all be exposed and an inspirational message fills the pages. Stay With Me is engaging, emotional and full of redemption. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!

Good girl and spiritual role model, Genevieve Woodward needs a rest, as her world closes in on her. When Sam Turner finds Genevieve in his house, he's reluctant to turn her away. As past events and secrets shape the present, Sam and Genevieve struggle with deep loneliness. But the two slowly begin to lean on one another, making room inside of their very weary hearts. Becky Wade shines with an unputdownable mix of romance, very human emotions and how faith plays a role in each. Genevieve's journey will stay with readers for a very long time

Lovely offering from Becky Wade with such a rich and redemptive message. As always her characters draw you in and keep you glued to the pages with a unique blend of broken people finding grace in difficult situations. Looking forward to the next for sure!

As always, I loved this book by Becky Wade. When she came on the Christian fiction scene a few years ago, I immediately added her to my to be read pile. Every. Single. Book. Stay with Me is the beginning of the Misty River Romance series. It features Genevieve who finds herself awakening in a strange cottage near her hometown. She's stressed from her career and having received some disturbing news is now crashing the property of the cottages owner, Sam. He's not interested in a tenant. He's sort of a loner and wants to live a quiet life. It's an interesting read. Very romantic and has a mystery. Highly recommended!

This is one of those stories that's so difficult to review because I don't want to give a single thing away, but at the same token, want to portray how powerfully impactful it is! It's deeply emotional, thought provoking, and resonates with so much spiritual truths that they slammed into my heart. The end sucker-punched me, stole my breath, and left tears trickling down my face...but wow, some seriously good stuff. I won't walk away from this unaffected and reminded in such a powerful way just how much God loves me; in spite of my mistakes, in spite of times where I’ve turned away from God, in spite of my doubts and fears, in spite of how stupidly human I can be sometimes.

Okay, whew, I still can't catch my breath, but I'll try to finish my review on this beautifully written story. There were times where I felt so entrenched in this that it became real, the characters felt real, and everything around me dissipated except the world in the pages. Becky Wade has a way to weave her words so that the reader can connect to the story practically right away. At least it does for me with every book I've read by her. I'm a fairly new fan, having just discovered Wade's writing through her recent Bradford Sisters series. So when this new one came out, I was almost desperate to read it! I knew I was in for a real treat and Wade did not disappoint. I was fully invested in the lives of Genevieve & Sam as soon as he found her passed out in his guesthouse. These two are deeply layered characters and Wade had a way of peeling back those layers to lay bare the deep-seated struggles and issues they've hidden for years. Also, the family secrets that Genevieve & her sister Natasha have come to investigate after threatening letters arrived at their parents house kept me on tenterhooks. I could not believe what was revealed at the end! Emotions ran high for me throughout the book and I had such a hard time putting it down. Wade also introduces other members of what's called “the miracle five”; five teens on a missionary trip who survived an earthquake 18 years ago. What they went through is sprinkled throughout the book. I can't wait to learn more about Luke, Sebastian, and Ben!

In conclusion, Wade consistently delivers spiritual truth, emotions so real you can feel them, flawed characters redeemed by God's mercy, a love story that's deep & abiding, and an overall satisfied feeling that leaves you smiling at the end. If this first book in the Misty River Romance series is any indication of what's to come, I cannot wait for the rest!


*I received a complimentary digital copy through Netgalley and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *

Becky Wade has penned another emotional, realistic, and heart-touching story in Stay with Me, the first book in her Misty River Romance series. The characters are realistic, flawed, and engaging. I loved Genevieve’s fun-loving personality and Sam’s more subdued, but compassionate, one. Their dialogue went from witty and playful to serious and intense and everywhere in between. I enjoyed seeing their relationship change and grow.

“It didn’t feel like he was coming in from the cold of one autumn night. It felt like he was coming in from seven years of cold.”
“She could not pay God back for saving her. Goodness knows, she’d tried.”

This is a story of redemption, of grace, of hope under difficult circumstances. Wade is great at tackling difficult subjects sensitively and beautifully. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.