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Coastal Hearts #7
Holding On To Hope
A fun road trip romance to the Grand Tetons!
Always the wedding planner, never the bride.
Hope Rodriguez loves planning weddings. There’s nothing more special than helping a bride become a princess for a day, but she’s not sure that’s her calling in life anymore.
If only she had her own special someone. Her only current prospect leaves her with more questions than answers about where she falls in his list of priorities.
Yet, when a lifelong friend asks her to plan a destination wedding across the country in only two weeks, she’ll have to figure out how to pull off the impossible…alone.
After being burned as a child and deserted by his family, Caleb Donnelly has an intimate relationship with pain. Despite all he’s endured, one ache refuses to leave him—the throbbing in his heart where Hope is concerned.
So when Hope needs help with their friend’s wedding, he can’t stop himself from volunteering to travel two thousand miles to Jackson, Wyoming.
As long as he keeps his feelings in check, he might not ruin their friendship. Because a beautiful woman like Hope could never love a scarred man like him. There’s no way their longtime friendship could ever become more.
When Hope and Caleb’s plans go up in flames, it’s their hearts that might never recover.
Grab your copy of Holding On to Hope...a Southern Contemporary Christian Romance novel from the Coastal Hearts Series.
Always the wedding planner, never the bride.
Hope Rodriguez loves planning weddings. There’s nothing more special than helping a bride become a princess for a day, but she’s not sure that’s her calling in life anymore.
If only she had her own special someone. Her only current prospect leaves her with more questions than answers about where she falls in his list of priorities.
Yet, when a lifelong friend asks her to plan a destination wedding across the country in only two weeks, she’ll have to figure out how to pull off the impossible…alone.
After being burned as a child and deserted by his family, Caleb Donnelly has an intimate relationship with pain. Despite all he’s endured, one ache refuses to leave him—the throbbing in his heart where Hope is concerned.
So when Hope needs help with their friend’s wedding, he can’t stop himself from volunteering to travel two thousand miles to Jackson, Wyoming.
As long as he keeps his feelings in check, he might not ruin their friendship. Because a beautiful woman like Hope could never love a scarred man like him. There’s no way their longtime friendship could ever become more.
When Hope and Caleb’s plans go up in flames, it’s their hearts that might never recover.
Grab your copy of Holding On to Hope...a Southern Contemporary Christian Romance novel from the Coastal Hearts Series.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2023
35 people are currently reading
716 people want to read
About the author
Janet W. Ferguson
15 books537 followersJanet W. Ferguson is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the 2020 FHL Readers Choice Award. An avid reader and former librarian, she turned her love of story into writing contemporary faith-filled novels with realistic characters who feel like best friends. You’ll laugh and cry as the quirky heroes and heroines chase their happily ever after.
Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways.
She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!
Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways.
She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 17, 2023
Wow, Janet Ferguson is now an auto buy author for me! HOLDING ON TO HOPE is my second book by her but holy cow! She had my emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Hope. What an awesome story. All of Janet’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their differences and be happy once again. Hope has been in love with Pete for years and has no idea that their friend Caleb has loved her, but kept his feelings hidden since he thought he had nothing to offer her.
HOLDING ON TO HOPE felt like watching a reality television show. I had to know what was going to happen to Hope and all the secondary characters. All of the characters are flawed, not perfect in any way which makes the readers connect to any one of them. Caleb and Hope thought they knew what each other were all about but they couldn’t have been more wrong. Part of this story takes place in Wyoming and the traveling problems that come up for them is very funny! Once you start reading HOLDING ON TO HOPE it will be very hard to put down! Not all of this story is happy though. Caleb has had a tough life and he truly wants more with Hope. He won’t act on his feelings out of fear of wrecking their friendship and that has him holding on to his faith more than ever. Both Caleb and Hope have a lot to deal with and they have many issues to work through. I liked both of these characters who have huge hearts and will do anything for anyone.
HOLDING ON TO HOPE is without a doubt one of the most heart tugging books I’ve read in 2023 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Hope has loved Pete for years and now she has to plan his wedding to someone else. Oh, I forgot to mention, Hope has just two weeks to pull this wedding planning off! Can the story get any better? All of the characters kept me laughing but the banter between Caleb and Hope is hysterical. Janet Ferguson is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. I am now going to read all of her previous books and she has just made a new fan forever! HOLDING ON TO HOPE had me constantly guessing which way Caleb’s life was going to go. Grab your copy today and get on the couch!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
HOLDING ON TO HOPE felt like watching a reality television show. I had to know what was going to happen to Hope and all the secondary characters. All of the characters are flawed, not perfect in any way which makes the readers connect to any one of them. Caleb and Hope thought they knew what each other were all about but they couldn’t have been more wrong. Part of this story takes place in Wyoming and the traveling problems that come up for them is very funny! Once you start reading HOLDING ON TO HOPE it will be very hard to put down! Not all of this story is happy though. Caleb has had a tough life and he truly wants more with Hope. He won’t act on his feelings out of fear of wrecking their friendship and that has him holding on to his faith more than ever. Both Caleb and Hope have a lot to deal with and they have many issues to work through. I liked both of these characters who have huge hearts and will do anything for anyone.
HOLDING ON TO HOPE is without a doubt one of the most heart tugging books I’ve read in 2023 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Hope has loved Pete for years and now she has to plan his wedding to someone else. Oh, I forgot to mention, Hope has just two weeks to pull this wedding planning off! Can the story get any better? All of the characters kept me laughing but the banter between Caleb and Hope is hysterical. Janet Ferguson is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. I am now going to read all of her previous books and she has just made a new fan forever! HOLDING ON TO HOPE had me constantly guessing which way Caleb’s life was going to go. Grab your copy today and get on the couch!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
March 6, 2023
This series continues to deliver flawed characters that ultimately follow God's direction. In Holding on to Hope, Caleb lacks self confidence for more than one reason. He has severe burns and he grew up in the foster system. He's secretly been in love with Hope for years.
As a marriage coordinator, Hope volunteers to help her friend Andrew with this wedding. She doesn't realize until after the commitment that the wedding is a destination wedding (Wyoming) and in two weeks!
Loved the focus on marriage in the novel.
I hope the next novel is about one of the characters in this one.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
As a marriage coordinator, Hope volunteers to help her friend Andrew with this wedding. She doesn't realize until after the commitment that the wedding is a destination wedding (Wyoming) and in two weeks!
Loved the focus on marriage in the novel.
I hope the next novel is about one of the characters in this one.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
March 24, 2023
Once again, Janet W. Ferguson has written one of my favorite novels of the year! Holding On To Hope will take you on an emotional journey filled with laughter, a hero to make you swoon, and the sweetest of romances. With its richly drawn characters and relatable themes, Holding On To Hope will leave you inspired and hopeful long after you've turned the final page.
April 12, 2023
Oh, I loved these characters and their journey to their happily ever after! This book is the seventh in the Coastal Hearts series and it is definitely fun to have read the earlier novels and then see various characters appear in this one. However, you can also simply pick this story up and enjoy it on its own, as well.
For years and years, while Hope had been desperately wishing for Pete to love with her, she had no idea that her friend, Caleb, had fallen in love with her when they were just teens. I loved the way Caleb viewed Hope. He didn’t put her up on a pedestal, he saw her for who she really was and loved her for it. He also always had the mindset of wanting what was best for her or hoping she would be happy, even if it wasn’t with him.
It was wonderful to see Hope’s eyes begin to open up to Caleb. She already knew that he was a great guy and a wonderful friend. But, on this hectic trip, as they tried to put together a last minute destination wedding, Hope began to see Caleb as a man that any woman would be blessed to be loved by.
I adored this story from start to finish. It had a beautiful friends to more romance, a wonderful and interesting setting, and just enough angst to give the characters a few problems to work through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
For years and years, while Hope had been desperately wishing for Pete to love with her, she had no idea that her friend, Caleb, had fallen in love with her when they were just teens. I loved the way Caleb viewed Hope. He didn’t put her up on a pedestal, he saw her for who she really was and loved her for it. He also always had the mindset of wanting what was best for her or hoping she would be happy, even if it wasn’t with him.
It was wonderful to see Hope’s eyes begin to open up to Caleb. She already knew that he was a great guy and a wonderful friend. But, on this hectic trip, as they tried to put together a last minute destination wedding, Hope began to see Caleb as a man that any woman would be blessed to be loved by.
I adored this story from start to finish. It had a beautiful friends to more romance, a wonderful and interesting setting, and just enough angst to give the characters a few problems to work through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 9, 2026
When wedding planner Hope Rodriguez's friend needs her to plan a last-minute destination wedding in Wyoming, she is eager to jump on a plane and head west. Her own love life has been going nowhere for years, and she just found out the guy she's dating now doesn't believe in marriage. At least she can help Andrew and Caroline have the big day they deserve.
Facing an uncertain future after some things he didn't see coming, Caleb Donnelly joins Hope in order to help in any way he can. He might not know much about weddings, but he knows he's been in love with Hope since he was a teenager. She's never looked his way and he would never do anything to risk the friendship they share.
But as one thing after another goes wrong, Hope and Caleb find themselves spending more and more time together, supporting one another and trying to make this wedding happen according to the bride's wishes. As Hope begins to see Caleb in a new light, will he be brave enough to hold on to her?
I always love how Janet W. Ferguson portrays characters with real, everyday faith. Caleb's relationship with God centers him, and Hope sees the kind of faith she wants when she looks at Caleb. There's an emphasis on relationships and marriages that honor God and are faithful to Him and each other.
Although there are a number of funny moments as things keep going wrong, I found my suspension of disbelief was stretched a bit about the comedy of errors and a few other things as well. Still, if you're looking for a light read that highlights a beautiful part of the country and also packs a serious wallop in the faith department, this book is one for you.
I received my copy of the book from JustReads Publicity. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Facing an uncertain future after some things he didn't see coming, Caleb Donnelly joins Hope in order to help in any way he can. He might not know much about weddings, but he knows he's been in love with Hope since he was a teenager. She's never looked his way and he would never do anything to risk the friendship they share.
But as one thing after another goes wrong, Hope and Caleb find themselves spending more and more time together, supporting one another and trying to make this wedding happen according to the bride's wishes. As Hope begins to see Caleb in a new light, will he be brave enough to hold on to her?
I always love how Janet W. Ferguson portrays characters with real, everyday faith. Caleb's relationship with God centers him, and Hope sees the kind of faith she wants when she looks at Caleb. There's an emphasis on relationships and marriages that honor God and are faithful to Him and each other.
Although there are a number of funny moments as things keep going wrong, I found my suspension of disbelief was stretched a bit about the comedy of errors and a few other things as well. Still, if you're looking for a light read that highlights a beautiful part of the country and also packs a serious wallop in the faith department, this book is one for you.
I received my copy of the book from JustReads Publicity. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
April 20, 2023
I've followed Janet Ferguson's Coastal Heart series from book one and I love the way she's able to lay out hard topics and truth in very simple but effective and inspiring ways.
Holding On To Hope has a nugget for everyone. Caleb is a sweet soul. Hope is a friend everyone should have.
Lovers of romance and inspiring stories will love this one.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Holding On To Hope has a nugget for everyone. Caleb is a sweet soul. Hope is a friend everyone should have.
Lovers of romance and inspiring stories will love this one.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
April 17, 2024
While this is part of a series, it is the first book in the series that I've read, and it was easy to understand what was going on. With that in mind, I am interested in reading at least a few of the previous books.
This book had authentic characters. I love that they felt real and had realistic vulnerabilities, including thinking the person they liked would never like them back. From the very beginning, I'm rooting for Hope and Caleb as a couple. Both are the sort of people who will sacrifice and who put others first.
This is a clean novel. There's no swearing, violence, or sexual content. Two of the characters have been living together before they got married, though, which was a bit "scandalous" for a Christian novel.
There is a huge focus on faith, prayer, and other spiritual manners. If you don't like Christian books, you likely won't like this one. I wouldn't say that it was an overwhelming amount of spiritual elements, but they were definitely an important element in the story. This is a book that I would recommend even if you haven't read the previous books in the series.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway, and I left a voluntary review.
This book had authentic characters. I love that they felt real and had realistic vulnerabilities, including thinking the person they liked would never like them back. From the very beginning, I'm rooting for Hope and Caleb as a couple. Both are the sort of people who will sacrifice and who put others first.
This is a clean novel. There's no swearing, violence, or sexual content. Two of the characters have been living together before they got married, though, which was a bit "scandalous" for a Christian novel.
There is a huge focus on faith, prayer, and other spiritual manners. If you don't like Christian books, you likely won't like this one. I wouldn't say that it was an overwhelming amount of spiritual elements, but they were definitely an important element in the story. This is a book that I would recommend even if you haven't read the previous books in the series.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway, and I left a voluntary review.
April 24, 2023
Once again author Janet W. Ferguson has written a story that will steal the hearts of readers from the turn of the first page. This is a fabulous best friends to lovers story that will take readers on an emotional journey as they see the relatable imperfections and struggles of the characters. But along with the struggles, the characters find time to have fun and laugh too. And to add to the beauty of the story, it’s set with the backdrop of the majestic Grand Tetons and Rockies. This is an excellent swoony and heart warming romance that readers will absolutely adore and will come back to over and over.
Series: Coastal Hearts
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Southern Sun Press, LLC.
Publication date: April 1, 2023
Number of pages: 286
Other books in the series:
1-Magnolia Storms
2-Falling for Grace
3-The Art of Rivers
4-Star Rising
5-For the Love of Joy
6-Healing Skye
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Coastal Hearts
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Southern Sun Press, LLC.
Publication date: April 1, 2023
Number of pages: 286
Other books in the series:
1-Magnolia Storms
2-Falling for Grace
3-The Art of Rivers
4-Star Rising
5-For the Love of Joy
6-Healing Skye
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
February 18, 2023
Caleb Donnelly has secretly loved Hope Rodriguez since they were in high school, but he believes he's too badly scarred for her to ever notice him in a romantic manner.
Hope has been infatuated with Pete for years. Unfortunately, he just got married, and Hope was the wedding planner.
When Pete's brother Matt asks Hope to plan his wedding, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in two weeks, Hope is overwhelmed. She's never done a project by herself before.
Caleb volunteers to help. As Hope spends time with Caleb, she begins to look past his scars and see his inner beauty. Can Caleb and Hope find love in the magnificent scenery of the Grand Teton Mountains?
Hope has been infatuated with Pete for years. Unfortunately, he just got married, and Hope was the wedding planner.
When Pete's brother Matt asks Hope to plan his wedding, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in two weeks, Hope is overwhelmed. She's never done a project by herself before.
Caleb volunteers to help. As Hope spends time with Caleb, she begins to look past his scars and see his inner beauty. Can Caleb and Hope find love in the magnificent scenery of the Grand Teton Mountains?
October 31, 2023
Holding on to Hope is an inspirational book about a love triangle. Janet W. Ferguson’s descriptive details will immerse you in the faith-based story and make you long to read all the fabulous books by the author.
December 4, 2023
A great book! It’s a clean Christian romance book. The romance builds slowly. You see the growth and struggles of the characters along their journey. I enjoyed the author’s sense of humor and yet she touched on serious topics as well. It was a nice blend. I would definitely read another book by this author. Thank you for the arc copy and helping me to find a new author I enjoy.
October 3, 2023
It was great to return to a few familiar characters and journey with them through the celebrations and challenges of life. This story has a strong faith message woven through it. Whilst you could read it as a standalone I think you’ll enjoy it more if you know some of the background stories.
April 21, 2023
Holding On To Hope is a sweet Christian romance featuring Hope, a wedding planner, and Caleb, a mariner. Both find themselves near the Tetons in Wyoming planning their friend's wedding.
You can expect to find in this book:
- Unexpected coincidences
- Hilarious premarital counseling
- A Bridezilla
- One Bathroom (a twist on the one bed trope)
- Faulty smoke alarms
My only concern about the book was that it felt like the author hadn't spent much time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. For example, the locals call the city Jackson Hole, and the book continually referred to the town as "Jackson."
Thank you to the author and Just Read Tours for the e-advance copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
My Rating Calculation:
Hook: 6
Writing: 8
Format: 8
Plot and character development: 6
Content: 8
Average: 7.2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: 7-8
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: 5.7-6.9
⭐️⭐️⭐️: 4-5.6
⭐️⭐️: 1-3.9
⭐️: DNF
You can expect to find in this book:
- Unexpected coincidences
- Hilarious premarital counseling
- A Bridezilla
- One Bathroom (a twist on the one bed trope)
- Faulty smoke alarms
My only concern about the book was that it felt like the author hadn't spent much time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. For example, the locals call the city Jackson Hole, and the book continually referred to the town as "Jackson."
Thank you to the author and Just Read Tours for the e-advance copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
My Rating Calculation:
Hook: 6
Writing: 8
Format: 8
Plot and character development: 6
Content: 8
Average: 7.2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: 7-8
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: 5.7-6.9
⭐️⭐️⭐️: 4-5.6
⭐️⭐️: 1-3.9
⭐️: DNF
April 18, 2023
You don’t have to read too far into my reviews to discover how much I love a good friends-to-more romance. Well, let me tell you, Janet W. Ferguson has raised the bar on this trope with Holding on to Hope.
First there’s Caleb. Sweet, endearing, heartsick Caleb who isn’t blind to Hope’s faults and desires the best for her even if that best causes his heart pains worse than his scars. And Hope adds a brightness to Caleb’s melancholy.
Ferguson expertly balances the heavy parts in this story with some wild, laugh-out-loud moments throughout the book. But at the heart is the truth of how God loves us—perfectly despite our sins and our scars. He sees past our skin and masks to the heart.
Holding on to Hope is a story I will be coming back to again and again because I am a superfan of this couple.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
First there’s Caleb. Sweet, endearing, heartsick Caleb who isn’t blind to Hope’s faults and desires the best for her even if that best causes his heart pains worse than his scars. And Hope adds a brightness to Caleb’s melancholy.
Ferguson expertly balances the heavy parts in this story with some wild, laugh-out-loud moments throughout the book. But at the heart is the truth of how God loves us—perfectly despite our sins and our scars. He sees past our skin and masks to the heart.
Holding on to Hope is a story I will be coming back to again and again because I am a superfan of this couple.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
April 2, 2023
Holding on to Hope by Janet W. Ferguson is so good! Hope has spent years pining for a man who married another woman and she is currently in a relationship that isn't quite right for her. Caleb is scarred physically from being injured in a fire as a child and he's scarred emotionally from being abandoned by his family. They've been friends for years, but Caleb has loved Hope almost the whole time. Hope is a wedding planner and agrees to put a destination wedding together at the last minute for a friend. Caleb agrees to travel to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons with Hope to help with the wedding.
I loved Hope and I loved Caleb! They were both so concerned about hurting the other's feelings and were such sweet people. There were some laugh out loud moments that gave this a bit of a romcom feel. Caleb's faith was inspiring. The couple that Hope was planning the wedding for also kept me turning the pages. It was neat to see how the various side characters intertwined in the story. The story wrapped up well and provided several relationship resolutions that made my heart happy.
If you like contemporary Christian fiction, I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved Hope and I loved Caleb! They were both so concerned about hurting the other's feelings and were such sweet people. There were some laugh out loud moments that gave this a bit of a romcom feel. Caleb's faith was inspiring. The couple that Hope was planning the wedding for also kept me turning the pages. It was neat to see how the various side characters intertwined in the story. The story wrapped up well and provided several relationship resolutions that made my heart happy.
If you like contemporary Christian fiction, I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 2, 2025
Another great book! I am so glad that I have found Janet W Ferguson. Her books are so true to life and have great Christian characters. I just can’t put it down because I just have to know what’s happening next. I highly recommend this author. I already have 3 more of her books waiting for me on my kindle.
August 7, 2023
Sweet story
Caleb loved from afar and finally took his lost brothers advice to hold on to Hope. And he planned to make a lifetime career of doing just that.
Caleb loved from afar and finally took his lost brothers advice to hold on to Hope. And he planned to make a lifetime career of doing just that.
April 21, 2023
I enjoy a good Christian Romance novel and Janet W. Ferguson has become a favorite author in this genre. Holding On To Hope is the latest book that I have read by this author. It is the 7th book in the Coastal Hearts series. I have read several of the other books in this series and was excited to read this one.
Hope Rodriguez loves being a Wedding Planner and helping others make their Wedding dreams come true. She has always hoped she would find "The ONE" so she can walk down the aisle also. Her current boyfriend has recently told her he doesn't ever want to get married. She is honored when a friend asks her to be the Wedding planner for his wedding. She now has 2 weeks to plan a destination wedding in only 2 weeks, 2000 miles away, and by herself. Caleb Donnelly is a friend of Hope's and he volunteers to help her with this wedding, as it is for a mutual friend of theirs. Caleb knows he will have to keep his feelings in check while helping her. He has had feelings for her since they were teenagers, but he doesn't think Hope will see beyond his burn scars. Will Hope and Caleb be able to get the Wedding planned and make it a special day for their friend? Will Hope and Caleb see each other beyond a friendship?
WOW, I was captivated by this book from page 1. The wedding planner storyline was what reeled me in and had me keep reading. I had wanted to be a wedding planner when I was younger, although it never happened. Hope is a great character and I really like how she is dedicated to her work, but makes sure to find time to be in a relationship. She is discouraged by the status of her relationship but keeps going. Caleb is an AMAZING character. He truly values his friendship with Hope, so he has held his feelings for her inside for many years. I LOVE how he volunteers to help Hope on this 2-week turnaround for a Wedding. The way the 2 work together and feelings are finally exposed is really the BEST part of the book! I also really LOVE how Caleb's Faith in God is a part of this book. This book is one of God's plans is greater than our plan! Janet W. Ferguson is an AMAZING Author. I am really enjoying this Book Series, and after reading 3 books in this series, I am excited to read the entire series! WONDERFUL Book!
Hope Rodriguez loves being a Wedding Planner and helping others make their Wedding dreams come true. She has always hoped she would find "The ONE" so she can walk down the aisle also. Her current boyfriend has recently told her he doesn't ever want to get married. She is honored when a friend asks her to be the Wedding planner for his wedding. She now has 2 weeks to plan a destination wedding in only 2 weeks, 2000 miles away, and by herself. Caleb Donnelly is a friend of Hope's and he volunteers to help her with this wedding, as it is for a mutual friend of theirs. Caleb knows he will have to keep his feelings in check while helping her. He has had feelings for her since they were teenagers, but he doesn't think Hope will see beyond his burn scars. Will Hope and Caleb be able to get the Wedding planned and make it a special day for their friend? Will Hope and Caleb see each other beyond a friendship?
WOW, I was captivated by this book from page 1. The wedding planner storyline was what reeled me in and had me keep reading. I had wanted to be a wedding planner when I was younger, although it never happened. Hope is a great character and I really like how she is dedicated to her work, but makes sure to find time to be in a relationship. She is discouraged by the status of her relationship but keeps going. Caleb is an AMAZING character. He truly values his friendship with Hope, so he has held his feelings for her inside for many years. I LOVE how he volunteers to help Hope on this 2-week turnaround for a Wedding. The way the 2 work together and feelings are finally exposed is really the BEST part of the book! I also really LOVE how Caleb's Faith in God is a part of this book. This book is one of God's plans is greater than our plan! Janet W. Ferguson is an AMAZING Author. I am really enjoying this Book Series, and after reading 3 books in this series, I am excited to read the entire series! WONDERFUL Book!
April 18, 2023
Ms. Ferguson knows people. She knows how to bring her characters to life. And the setting! The Grand Tetons! There is nothing like the majesty of the Rockies.
Switching up from her typical coastal settings, the author whisks her characters half-way across the country. And up 6000 feet in altitude, give or take.
With a jumble of characters, one who shall remain nameless [SPOILER] is ridiculously difficult, one who is sketchy, and one whose timing is the worst.
Hope’s name should have been Patience for all her client puts her through. But through is all, she is faithful to the task.
Caleb, too, has the proverbial patience of Job. (Maybe that should have been his name. #winkwink) Ever hopeful but not truly believing he and Hope might be anything more than friends.
With twists and unexpected turns this story pulled me in and kept me there. Book six in Ms. Ferguson’s Coastal Hearts series, it holds the ties established from the first book, and introduces new faces.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Book Launch Event – Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TDRD, Month Long Launch Blog Blitz, Holding on to Hope, Janet W. Ferguson, Coastal Hearts Book 6, JustRead Publicity
Switching up from her typical coastal settings, the author whisks her characters half-way across the country. And up 6000 feet in altitude, give or take.
With a jumble of characters, one who shall remain nameless [SPOILER] is ridiculously difficult, one who is sketchy, and one whose timing is the worst.
Hope’s name should have been Patience for all her client puts her through. But through is all, she is faithful to the task.
Caleb, too, has the proverbial patience of Job. (Maybe that should have been his name. #winkwink) Ever hopeful but not truly believing he and Hope might be anything more than friends.
With twists and unexpected turns this story pulled me in and kept me there. Book six in Ms. Ferguson’s Coastal Hearts series, it holds the ties established from the first book, and introduces new faces.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Book Launch Event – Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TDRD, Month Long Launch Blog Blitz, Holding on to Hope, Janet W. Ferguson, Coastal Hearts Book 6, JustRead Publicity
April 25, 2023
This was my favorite story yet in this series! I didn't want to put it down! I just loved everything about the plot, from a good friend who's secretly in love to a rushed destination wedding Hope must plan to truly seeing her friend for the first time and realizing what a wonderful godly man he was. It was great seeing Hope discover what a great guy Caleb was and how he was really there for her during all of this, especially as things kept going wrong. He had the patience of a saint, was selfless, incredibly wise and really followed the Lord, plus he was cute! I couldn't really understand why Hope was confused about another guy because there just seemed to be so many red flags with him. I liked Hope, too, for her compassionate heart and giving nature but I also wondered how she could not have asked the guy she was dating what he thought about God or commitment after several months of dating. There were some sweet romantic moments in the story but also adventure. The scenery sounded incredible and almost felt like another character as it was so integral to the book. I liked seeing other characters from the series show up, though this did work as a stand-alone. I can't wait for the next one! I highly recommend this book!
I received a free kindle copy from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free kindle copy from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2023
I was immediately intrigued when I saw Janet Ferguson’s newest book, Holding on to Hope, mainly because the setting is in one of my favorite places--Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, Wyoming. I’ve been there so many times it was easy to visualize the scenery and the ambiance there. Another reason I wanted to read it is because I’ve read most of the author’s other books and enjoyed them. She is a master at creating flawed, hurting, but engaging characters, placing them in challenging situations, and helping them out the other side better and stronger than they were before.
Hope Rodriguez and Caleb Donnelly are wonderful main characters. They are both so caring and compassionate. As they work together to put together a memorable wedding within two weeks for a friend, encountering many obstacles and problems, they begin to see each other differently. Inspirational themes of family, forgiveness, faith, and hope are strong in this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Hope Rodriguez and Caleb Donnelly are wonderful main characters. They are both so caring and compassionate. As they work together to put together a memorable wedding within two weeks for a friend, encountering many obstacles and problems, they begin to see each other differently. Inspirational themes of family, forgiveness, faith, and hope are strong in this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2023
Holding on to Hope is the latest in the Coastal Hearts series by Janet Ferguson. It would be difficult to choose a favorite but this book is definitely in the running.
With its share of misunderstandings, mishaps, and varied surprises, Holding on to Hope may be the most humorous of the series. Do not let that fool you though. Readers will still find ample character development, Biblical truth, and life lessons to keep this novel well above rom com fluff level.
Be sure to join Hope and Caleb as the good friends work together to plan a last minute wilderness wedding in the Jackson, Wyoming area. If anything could go wrong, it did but God’s plans prevailed and Caleb and Hope found that the desires of their hearts might be closer than they even imagined.
I cannot recommend books by this author enough. She will always be on my must read list. I hope you will give Holding on to Hope a try.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
With its share of misunderstandings, mishaps, and varied surprises, Holding on to Hope may be the most humorous of the series. Do not let that fool you though. Readers will still find ample character development, Biblical truth, and life lessons to keep this novel well above rom com fluff level.
Be sure to join Hope and Caleb as the good friends work together to plan a last minute wilderness wedding in the Jackson, Wyoming area. If anything could go wrong, it did but God’s plans prevailed and Caleb and Hope found that the desires of their hearts might be closer than they even imagined.
I cannot recommend books by this author enough. She will always be on my must read list. I hope you will give Holding on to Hope a try.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
April 20, 2023
Holding On to Hope by Janet W. Ferguson
A Coastal Hearts Novel
Caleb Donnelly has been in love with Hope since he first met her. And Hope had been in love with Pete, who fell in love and married Skye, not Hope. So Caleb agreed to go to Wyoming to help her with a wedding their friend Andrew, Pete’s brother, had sprung on her. A wedding that was only two weeks away.
Hope Rodriguez wanted to prove that she could pull off this wedding. She worked for her mom’s event planning company but wanted to prove she could do it independently. While there with Caleb, she noticed so much about him that she had never seen before. Especially what a strong faith he had.
Another excellent adventure in this series. Caleb was so easy to fall in love with, a well-written character. And Hope had to get past what she wanted to see God’s plan for her life.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
A Coastal Hearts Novel
Caleb Donnelly has been in love with Hope since he first met her. And Hope had been in love with Pete, who fell in love and married Skye, not Hope. So Caleb agreed to go to Wyoming to help her with a wedding their friend Andrew, Pete’s brother, had sprung on her. A wedding that was only two weeks away.
Hope Rodriguez wanted to prove that she could pull off this wedding. She worked for her mom’s event planning company but wanted to prove she could do it independently. While there with Caleb, she noticed so much about him that she had never seen before. Especially what a strong faith he had.
Another excellent adventure in this series. Caleb was so easy to fall in love with, a well-written character. And Hope had to get past what she wanted to see God’s plan for her life.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
May 10, 2023
When I started reading this book, I realized it had been long enough since I'd read the previous one, Healing Skye, that I'd forgotten who the various characters were and the interactions between them, so I re-read Healing Skye. If you haven't read it, I strongly recommend you do before Holding on to Hope I really enjoyed learning more about Hope (I didn't like her that much in Healing Skye) and why she is the way she is. I also enjoyed learning more about Caleb. The plot is hilarious with all the crazy things that can happen in planning a destination wedding a long way from home with only a couple weeks in which to do it all! The other side characters add all sorts of interesting plot twists too. I stayed up way too late to finish it because how could I go to sleep without knowing how it all resolved?!
April 20, 2023
Another wonderful story by Janet Ferguson! I have read most of her books and am always blown away by the depth to her books and characters.
I enjoyed meeting Hope and Caleb. I could relate to Hope's loneliness at being "the last one standing" when it comes to marriage, since I was in a similar spot when I was in my 20's. I loved the themes of this story and how the two of them get to know one another, as well as the love of God more fully, through the course of the story. This is a wonderful book and series to pick up! Can be enjoyed as a stand alone but, trust me, you will want to read the other books!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
I enjoyed meeting Hope and Caleb. I could relate to Hope's loneliness at being "the last one standing" when it comes to marriage, since I was in a similar spot when I was in my 20's. I loved the themes of this story and how the two of them get to know one another, as well as the love of God more fully, through the course of the story. This is a wonderful book and series to pick up! Can be enjoyed as a stand alone but, trust me, you will want to read the other books!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
November 22, 2023
Loved this book!!! Caleb has loved Hope for years. He's watched her pine for Pete, and knew she was dating Michael. When he volunteers to help her plan Andrew and Caroline's destination wedding in Wyoming, he doesn't it will change anything between them. Of course, it does! But then, they meet Phil, and Michael shows up, and Hope doesn't know her heart anymore. She's also drawn to Caleb, and realizes she never really saw him before. By the time she realizes how much she cares, will she have burned all of her bridges, and be too late?? I loved that one wedding didn't take place in the book, as I didn't want the couple together from the start!!
September 30, 2023
Audiobook: This was my first experience with Janet W. Ferguson's work, and it was entertaining. Hope was a wedding planner. Her friend asked Hope to be his wedding planner for a wedding that was going to take place in two weeks. Caleb volunteered to help Hope with the preparations. The story was cute. Both Caleb and Hope were guided by their faith and their beliefs. There were some humorous incidents. Paul Curtis' narration was good, and his performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
October 24, 2023
A great book about two people who go through life with the strong faith. Caleb has had a rough childhood and has depended on the Lord to give him guidance in his life. Hope has a good life but is looking for Mr Right. She also is looking to change her job and go on her own, but feels guilty of leaving her mother. Hope and Caleb have to plan a wedding for their best friend and set out to the Grand Tetons for this advent.
Thank you for letting me read such a great book. If you want to know what will happen next, buy the book and enjoy.
Hilda
Thank you for letting me read such a great book. If you want to know what will happen next, buy the book and enjoy.
Hilda
September 25, 2024
“Even hermit crabs gotta try out a new shell now and then.”
“Even hermit crabs gotta try out a new shell now and then.”
I tried out this "new to me" author.
The premise of the story was adorable. Some of character interactions were frustrating, or sad, or beautiful, but there were creepy stalker times too.
I get that Caleb has loved from afar, but the fact we were reminded incessantly that he didn't want to be a creeper kind of made him one! Suddenly the tender looks seemed sullied.
“Even hermit crabs gotta try out a new shell now and then.”
I tried out this "new to me" author.
The premise of the story was adorable. Some of character interactions were frustrating, or sad, or beautiful, but there were creepy stalker times too.
I get that Caleb has loved from afar, but the fact we were reminded incessantly that he didn't want to be a creeper kind of made him one! Suddenly the tender looks seemed sullied.
April 2, 2023
What a beautifully written story!! I loved reading this book: it has wonderful characters, beautiful scenery, sweet romance and stays with you long after you turn the last page. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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