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Operation Romance #4
Operation Back-to-School
He wants to be more than her daughter's teacher.
Fraiser Campbell has finally landed his dream job: teaching kindergarten. Falling in love with the mother of one of his students isn't in the lesson plan.
Now that both her girls are in school, Shannon Cross is ready to get back to the office. As for her personal life, she's finally coming to terms with her husband's death three years ago and adjusting to life as a single mom.
At back-to-school night, neither Shannon nor Fraiser can deny their attraction, and he's determined to see where things lead. But learning to live without her husband is a long way from being ready to replace him. How can she fall for Fraiser without feeling that she's betraying the first man she loved?
Fraiser Campbell has finally landed his dream job: teaching kindergarten. Falling in love with the mother of one of his students isn't in the lesson plan.
Now that both her girls are in school, Shannon Cross is ready to get back to the office. As for her personal life, she's finally coming to terms with her husband's death three years ago and adjusting to life as a single mom.
At back-to-school night, neither Shannon nor Fraiser can deny their attraction, and he's determined to see where things lead. But learning to live without her husband is a long way from being ready to replace him. How can she fall for Fraiser without feeling that she's betraying the first man she loved?
- GenresRomance
116 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2016
43 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
70 books253 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 13, 2020
I didn't know this was the last in a series, but I had no trouble following it, as it was a stand-alone.
Though I found a few typos, I still loved this story so much! I don't normally like single parent romances, but with this being a young widow, it was realistic and sweet. I loved how slow the romance built for her and how realistic her doubts were, though he fell in love at first sight. I loved the interaction with the young girls. I loved the humor.
Favorite quotes:
“Pizza. That was Owen's answer to everything. Have a good day? Order pizza. Bad one? Pizza.” (chapter 2)
Shannon's prayer: “You gave me Simon. Am I even entitled to another amazing man? The girls...would love a father. But we're doing okay. You're taking care of us. Shouldn't I just be content?”
“'Honey, you've got the girls to consider. If you aren't interested in marrying him, I'm not sure you should date.' There was truth to that.” (chapter 3)
“You know when I tease[d] you about the hot moms, I wasn't actually advocating for dating them, right? It was a joke.'” (chapter 4)
“Tomorrow was a school day. Eight hours of uninterrupted adult time. She winced. That wasn't something a good mother was supposed to look forward to.” (chapter 5)
“Apparently, they used up all of their 'angelness' with her parents.” (chapter 7)
“...grasshoppers did a frenzied trampoline routine in his stomach.” (chapter 8)
“'As long as the boy gets to kiss the girl at the end.' Shannon crossed the room, her belly quivering. Could she do this? She slid her arms around his neck. 'He doesn't have to wait 'til the end if he doesn't want to.'” (chapter 11)
“'I...just don't want to always wonder if I'm being held to some standard that I'll never reach.' 'Does she do that?' Fraser sighed .'No. She doesn't. At least not out loud.' 'I'm going back to my previous statement: you're thinking too hard.'” (chapter 13)
Though I found a few typos, I still loved this story so much! I don't normally like single parent romances, but with this being a young widow, it was realistic and sweet. I loved how slow the romance built for her and how realistic her doubts were, though he fell in love at first sight. I loved the interaction with the young girls. I loved the humor.
Favorite quotes:
“Pizza. That was Owen's answer to everything. Have a good day? Order pizza. Bad one? Pizza.” (chapter 2)
Shannon's prayer: “You gave me Simon. Am I even entitled to another amazing man? The girls...would love a father. But we're doing okay. You're taking care of us. Shouldn't I just be content?”
“'Honey, you've got the girls to consider. If you aren't interested in marrying him, I'm not sure you should date.' There was truth to that.” (chapter 3)
“You know when I tease[d] you about the hot moms, I wasn't actually advocating for dating them, right? It was a joke.'” (chapter 4)
“Tomorrow was a school day. Eight hours of uninterrupted adult time. She winced. That wasn't something a good mother was supposed to look forward to.” (chapter 5)
“Apparently, they used up all of their 'angelness' with her parents.” (chapter 7)
“...grasshoppers did a frenzied trampoline routine in his stomach.” (chapter 8)
“'As long as the boy gets to kiss the girl at the end.' Shannon crossed the room, her belly quivering. Could she do this? She slid her arms around his neck. 'He doesn't have to wait 'til the end if he doesn't want to.'” (chapter 11)
“'I...just don't want to always wonder if I'm being held to some standard that I'll never reach.' 'Does she do that?' Fraser sighed .'No. She doesn't. At least not out loud.' 'I'm going back to my previous statement: you're thinking too hard.'” (chapter 13)
October 12, 2023
Lizzie and Jillian were both in school. Frasier was Jillian's kindergarten teacher.
Shannon works at IA for Gabe, Rick and Jake from the first 3 books. She's a single mom to Lizzie, who is in first grade and Jillian, who is in kindergarten. Her husband Somon died of an aneurysm 3 years ago. She meets Jillian's teacher, Fraiser on the first day of school. He falls in love at first sight. It takes her a while, but she finally realizes she loves him too. Her girls love him too and he loves them. Rick and Annabelle are married in this book and it is a lovely wedding. Jake and Deb elope. Gabe and Tori are getting married for New Year's and Shannon and Fraiser are getting married June 17th, as soon as school is finished for this year.Keep God in the front of it. Wise words, friend.
I"m sorry. I didn't mean to go on and on about him. It's okay. He's an important part of who you are today, and that's who I want to get to know.
If Frasier is the one God has for the rest of your journey, then it's going to be clear.
I had a conversation with the girls about us dating. I need to know that if it does work out, forever--marriage-is that what you're hoping for? Yeah, it is.
She's smart, talented, and amazingly capable. She has a great sense of humor and her girls...she's clearly a fantastic parent.
Do you believe in love at first sight? I can't stop thinking about her. If you look 10 years down the road can you see her in the picture? Yeah, I have a hard time getting her out.
As she prayed, she was filled with a gentle warmth.
I like how much you care. It says a lot about you. Not just as a teacher, but as a man.
The wedding ceremony at the church had been simple and beautiful. Rick and Annabelle had focused on the promise they were making each other and God.
Jillian told me she loved me. Oh Frasier I'm so sorry. Why, I told her I love her too. I love her mother, too, but I didn't mention that to her.
He slid his arms around her and slowly lowered his head. When their lips touched, her eyes fluttered closed, her fingers curling around the fabric of his shirt, unwilling to let go. Had she ever been kissed like that before in her life?
All his prayer on the subject just made him more at peace that Shannon was the woman God had for him.
Shannon, I love you. I can't imagine a bleaker life than one that doesn't have you in it. Will you marry me and let me be your husband and a father to your girls and any other children God sees fit to bless us with? Oh Fraiser. I love you. Oh yes I'll marry you. June seventeenth. School is out June sixteenth. I don't want to wait a moment longer than we have to.
Elizabeth has written another fantastic book about working for IA, being a kindergarten teacher, being a single mom and of course, falling in love. I recommend this book and all of Elizabeth's books to everyone.
Shannon works at IA for Gabe, Rick and Jake from the first 3 books. She's a single mom to Lizzie, who is in first grade and Jillian, who is in kindergarten. Her husband Somon died of an aneurysm 3 years ago. She meets Jillian's teacher, Fraiser on the first day of school. He falls in love at first sight. It takes her a while, but she finally realizes she loves him too. Her girls love him too and he loves them. Rick and Annabelle are married in this book and it is a lovely wedding. Jake and Deb elope. Gabe and Tori are getting married for New Year's and Shannon and Fraiser are getting married June 17th, as soon as school is finished for this year.Keep God in the front of it. Wise words, friend.
I"m sorry. I didn't mean to go on and on about him. It's okay. He's an important part of who you are today, and that's who I want to get to know.
If Frasier is the one God has for the rest of your journey, then it's going to be clear.
I had a conversation with the girls about us dating. I need to know that if it does work out, forever--marriage-is that what you're hoping for? Yeah, it is.
She's smart, talented, and amazingly capable. She has a great sense of humor and her girls...she's clearly a fantastic parent.
Do you believe in love at first sight? I can't stop thinking about her. If you look 10 years down the road can you see her in the picture? Yeah, I have a hard time getting her out.
As she prayed, she was filled with a gentle warmth.
I like how much you care. It says a lot about you. Not just as a teacher, but as a man.
The wedding ceremony at the church had been simple and beautiful. Rick and Annabelle had focused on the promise they were making each other and God.
Jillian told me she loved me. Oh Frasier I'm so sorry. Why, I told her I love her too. I love her mother, too, but I didn't mention that to her.
He slid his arms around her and slowly lowered his head. When their lips touched, her eyes fluttered closed, her fingers curling around the fabric of his shirt, unwilling to let go. Had she ever been kissed like that before in her life?
All his prayer on the subject just made him more at peace that Shannon was the woman God had for him.
Shannon, I love you. I can't imagine a bleaker life than one that doesn't have you in it. Will you marry me and let me be your husband and a father to your girls and any other children God sees fit to bless us with? Oh Fraiser. I love you. Oh yes I'll marry you. June seventeenth. School is out June sixteenth. I don't want to wait a moment longer than we have to.
Elizabeth has written another fantastic book about working for IA, being a kindergarten teacher, being a single mom and of course, falling in love. I recommend this book and all of Elizabeth's books to everyone.
September 21, 2023
Hers was a love that was supposed to last forever, but God had other plans and now after three years, will age be the one thing that keeps her from finding love again? Will her daughters and their crazy bickering be her undoing?
Read this sweet book and find out the answers.
I love this story by Elizabeth Maddrey. It was full of sweet moments and fun dialogue. It had humor, drama, and bits of romance. It also shows the struggles of being a single mom and all the pressures that come with that.
Elizabeth Maddrey is a gifted author, and her books always bring a smile to my face.
If you enjoy romance and fun books then you'll like this story.
I highly recommend you pick it up.
Read this sweet book and find out the answers.
I love this story by Elizabeth Maddrey. It was full of sweet moments and fun dialogue. It had humor, drama, and bits of romance. It also shows the struggles of being a single mom and all the pressures that come with that.
Elizabeth Maddrey is a gifted author, and her books always bring a smile to my face.
If you enjoy romance and fun books then you'll like this story.
I highly recommend you pick it up.
August 23, 2020
This delightful fall themed romance was included in the 2016 boxed set Falling for You: Six Christian Romances to Warm Your Heart. As a retired school teacher, mother, and grandmother, I identified with Operation Back-to-School by Elizabeth Maddrey. The characters interacted and discovered the love of God, the love of others, and romance. The story with a back to school setting has developing characters and twist and turn plot. A romance that warm the heart.
August 6, 2020
This was such a lovely story! Frasier was such a fun guy (and kudos for a dude being a kindergarten teacher) and truly cared about the kids he taught. Shannon had so many struggles to overcome, but finally felt like she was in a safe place to relax and let her past become the past. It was such a sweet, enjoyable read!
September 26, 2025
A lot more realistic than the previous ones. Shows some of the possible raw aspects of things. Loved Fraiser and how he includes God in every aspect of his life. Liked how Shannon starts to pray about things too. Would have liked to know Shannon's choice at the end. Apart from that, a good ending. A good wrap up to the series.
September 3, 2024
Quick, fun read. Elizabeth always brings a sweet romance where the couple look to what God wants for their lives. Enjoyed the tension involved with a widow determining when long enough is long enough.
August 6, 2020
Nice christian story
This was a nice story .&well written.Fraiser & Shannon made it fun to read. A nice love story without all the sex. It was enjoyable to read.
This was a nice story .&well written.Fraiser & Shannon made it fun to read. A nice love story without all the sex. It was enjoyable to read.
August 11, 2020
So cute
This charming story is perfect for back to school season or any time of year! The characters are believable and fun and the setting is quaint.
This charming story is perfect for back to school season or any time of year! The characters are believable and fun and the setting is quaint.
August 22, 2020
Cute, but a bit faster than I normally like. And Fraiser doesn't seem to have any flaws except moving too fast, which was a bit unbelievable.
August 29, 2020
Loving Story
This is a fun Christian love story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and to learn about their trust in God.
This is a fun Christian love story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and to learn about their trust in God.
November 30, 2016
This is one of the books in the Falling For You collection. Operation Back to School is the 4th book in the Operation Romance Series. This book like all the others written by Elizabeth Maddrey, is outstanding. I have read all of her books, and have yet to read one that I have not loved. Her books are the kind that you need to have time when you read, because once you start, you won't want to put it down until you finish.
In Operation Back to School, Shannon Cross is a widow of three years, and with both of her children in school, she feels it is time to go back to work. Fraiser Campbell happens to be her youngest daughter's kindergarten teacher. Shannon and Fraiser have obvious feelings for one another, but Shannon is hesitant to begin a relationship due to feelings of being unfaithful to her husband. This book is heartwarming and filled with faith. It can be read alone, or with the other books in the series, which I would recommend. I am sad to see this series end!
In Operation Back to School, Shannon Cross is a widow of three years, and with both of her children in school, she feels it is time to go back to work. Fraiser Campbell happens to be her youngest daughter's kindergarten teacher. Shannon and Fraiser have obvious feelings for one another, but Shannon is hesitant to begin a relationship due to feelings of being unfaithful to her husband. This book is heartwarming and filled with faith. It can be read alone, or with the other books in the series, which I would recommend. I am sad to see this series end!
November 15, 2016
I read this story as part of the Falling for You collection, and it was one of my favorite stories in the series. This is the 4th book in the Operation Romance series. It can be read as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading the prior books in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and following Frasier, a kindergarten teacher, and Shannon, a widow with a daughter in Frasier's class, as they discovered their feelings for one another. It is a heartwarming romance combined with a wonderful story of second chances and a story that I certainly recommend.
November 29, 2016
This is a heart-warming story about a widow with two young daughters struggling with feeling free to love again. Her struggle is with feeling like she’s still bound to her first husband, even though he is no longer alive; and a struggle brought on by a church member who thinks there is only one marriage for each person. Then there is a third struggle of whether or not she should date a school teacher of one of her daughters. Both of the main characters are seeking God for His direction. It’s a sweet story of family and faith, and an easy read. I read this in the set Falling For You.
November 29, 2016
What a delightful read. I fell in love with the characters, Loved how the children interacted in this story. This was very well written and I loved the inspirational thread through out the book. Even though this is part of a series. It can stand alone. I do recommend that you read all the books in this series.They will bless you.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews