The One Who Promised Forever

Second Chance Fire Station #3

by Tara Grace Ericson

Can they find a new spark in the ashes of a broken marriage?

I knew we had our issues–what couple doesn’t? But, I thought we were happy.
I thought he was happy.

I stay at home, caring for our three kids under eight years old while he is a firefighter in town. By the time he gets home, I'm drained physically and emotionally. Not that it matters, we barely talk anymore.

Despite telling myself it was normal for this phase of life, Nathan packed his bag and walked out three weeks ago. Sure, he’s still paying the bills and spending time with the kids. He even lives five minutes away. But our marriage? He says he can’t do it anymore.

When we said our vows nine years ago, I never imagined a future like this.

Do I believe God can redeem our marriage? Honestly, I’m not sure right now. I'm still praying He does. I might be hurting, but I still want my happy ending. Nathan was The One Who Promised Forever, and the man I married always kept his promises.

The One Who Promised Forever is a romance of forgiveness, relationship growth, and the everyday hardship of life together. There is no infidelity in the story.

Visit Second Chance Fire Station and discover the small town stories of faith, friendships, and forever happy endings that Tara Grace Ericson is known for.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Christian Romance, Fiction, Second Chance, Clean Romance, Christian

213 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2023

About the author

Tara Grace Ericson

faith, hope, and happily ever after

Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.

She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!

Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!

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Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone recently asked me if I ever cried while reading romance and I said that I hadn't yet...well, this book brought tears. It's such a lovely look into enduring love enduring all. It's emotionally deep and raw. It's angsty. It's real love in action. I think it's the best book I've read by this author.

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crazy strange

I didn't ever really understand what he was so angry over. I didn't like how he thought about her either. I do think he loved her but I just didn't understand why he left. It wasn't just about the birth control but if it was,.that is.just dumb. I did like the epilogue and I am glad it was safe.

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this was no light and fluffy read. Tara got down to business and her characters addressed all sorts of issues. I couldn’t put the book down.

4 Stars

*I received a copy of this book from the author. However, I purchased a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Bethany Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story followed Nathan and Rebecca. With their marriage on the rocks, Nathan has left the house leaving Rebecca and the kids alone. He still pays the bills and cuts the grass, but he is not physically there.Rebecca prays that their marr can be saved, and they agree to meet with pastor Justin. They get their issues out in the open, even the one with a child loss. Nathan ask Rebecca on a date to see if they can rekindle their romance. He eventually agrees to go to counseling by himself. They go through trials and realization of all the things that needed fixing in their marriage. Will they even make up or will they leave each other forever? In the end we are introduced to Elijah and Carla a relationship that their family says just can’t happen. I loved this continuation of the firehouse series, and I can’t wait to see what is in the works for Elijah and Carla.

[Jennifer Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done, relatable marriage restoration story. Lots of great truths. No adultery/unfaithfulness.

[Salomea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a hard story to read. I was on Rebecca’s side most of the book. Why would you just leave? But I get it, they both had to work on themselves for a while. It felt a bit rushed but they came through.

[Eliana · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I’d always thought vow renewals were a little hokey. Did you not mean what you said the first time? But now, I got it. My inexperienced nineteen-year-old self vowed to love, honor, and cherish for better or for worse. But until you saw hints of for worse, it was all theoretical. I hadn’t lived up to those vows. Nathan hadn’t either."
Touching but realistic story, liked the way things were wrapped up in the epilogue.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. How did you feel about the setting?

Once more, we are in Minden, Indiana, where a genuine sense of community thrives.

2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Rebecca Wells had resolutely forsaken her dreams to become Nathan’s unwavering wife and devoted mother to their cherished children. But did it all amount to naught?

3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Nathan Wells had definitively ended his relationship with Rebecca. He was absolutely certain that their marriage was beyond any hope of reconciliation.

4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

No one ever said marriage would be easy. Nathan and Rebecca had to confront their hurt, anger, and disappointment head-on, driven by an unwavering determination to discover the inner fortitude that would unite them. Could they truly mend all the shattered fragments in their sacred bond?

5. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

I strongly admire the writing style of author Tara Grace Ericson. I firmly believe that anyone considering a divorce would greatly benefit from reading this captivating story.

6. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

“The way you see your value – at root level – has to come from who you are to Christ. Otherwise, you’ll spend all your time trying to earn your worth through what you do and create a purpose for yourself. But you’re already infinitely valuable, friend. You have an identity as a Daughter of the King.”

7. For whom would you recommend this book?

I enthusiastically endorse The One Who Promised Forever for fans of Christian contemporary romance.

8. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I wholeheartedly endorse “The One Who Promised Forever” as an exquisitely crafted masterpiece that speaks directly to those navigating marital challenges or seeking solace in Christian contemporary fiction. In my estimation, this book unequivocally deserves a perfect rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author and bought one for a friend. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really touched my heart. It features a troubled married couple, both feeling hurt, resentful and disconnected. Deep down, Rebecca and Nathan both hope and want their their marriage to be saved, but are unsure how to deal with their feelings and heal the rift. As parents of three boys, their energies have been divided and time together, just the two of them, is rare. Conflicting schedules and poor communication has resulted in the buildup of repressed feelings that have built a wall between them. When Nathan, a firefighter, walks out on their marriage, Rebecca is left stunned, disheartened and scared. Since communicating effectively is not their strong suit, neither has any idea that they are both feeling the same emotions.

After weeks apart, they finally agree to talks mediated by their pastor. With his guidance maybe there is hope for salvaging their marriage, or at least a way for them to become good co-parents of their boys. What they do learn is that they are both need to work on their communication and listening skills, (neither can read the other’s mind, as much as they would like to do so). They also need to stop hiding their feelings from each other. Burying them deep and not dealing with them allows them to fester. Asking for help when needed is also a lesson they learned. It is not a weakness, but a strength to reach out and accept help. The pastor reminds them to keep God and his guidance in their marriage as well. Both realize that a marriage needs constant attention, nurturing and sometimes hard work to help keep it flourishing.

Rebecca and Nathan’s story is engaging, true-to-life and relatable. It is not the typical romance, but is one that is inspiring, compelling and memorable. Sometimes the happily ever after includes a few hard bumps and a detour or two before the path of true love smooths out again.

I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Angeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Wow, I was just blown away by this book. It felt real and I liked the way it progressed. The One Who Promised Forever is the third book in Tara Grace Ericson’s Second Chance Fire Station.
Nathan and Rebecca were a couple who were struggling. These characters felt real and their story was heartbreaking but also inspiring. There were so many things going on in this story and I think that Ericson did a great job of weaving this story together.
The characters drew me in. Rebecca had to grow on me but I grew to understand her and her struggles as the book went on. Rebecca was struggling with real feelings of hurt and anger. Nathan was trying his best but he felt like he was failing. Both Nathan and Rebecca had to learn to find their hope in God. I loved reading about them growing.
The romance was bitter sweet because Nathan and Rebecca were married and yet felt worlds apart. I liked the progression of their relationship and how they had to learn to trust each other and build up their relationship again. I adored Nathan and Rebecca’s boys. They added to the story and they too felt real as they tried to deal with their dad leaving but not.
The One Who Promised Forever is not a light read but it is so good. The story is compelling and I would definitely recommend it. The One Who Promised Forever is a clean Christian contemporary romance, there is a fade to black scene between a married couple.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"No, I was sorry for my part in all of this. Here is was for the last month, laying the blame for the breakdown of our marriage solely at Nathan's feet. When, in face, he'd been trying and trying without my noticing."

When Nathan moves out of their home, Rebecca is stunned. She knew their marriage wasn't perfect, but she thought it was still pretty good. She never anticipated raising their three boys alone. At first, the situation feels hopeless. But will they both realize that mistakes can be mended and hearts can be unbroken?

This is a powerfully written book. I felt convicted in all the best ways about times that I have not communicated well in my own marriage. The issues that the couple has are ones that all of us who are married can relate to. Learning to stay connected is a process that can be challenging, particularly in the days of younger children.

By using flashback scenes, the author gave us a peak into how everything fell apart. Both were at fault. From the beginning, it was clear that reconciliation might be possible, but it would take time. Every marriage is different. But this book's storyline is one that could provide hope to many people. Jesus is unashamedly a part of the solution. The couple also soon realizes that work is involved in maintaining a strong marriage.

I highly recommend this book that I read in less than a day. Even though this is a fictional couple, I think the testimony is a powerful one. I wanted to read and review this book and was thankful to have been given an advanced copy. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot even tell you how much I loved this story. Sure there are lots of romance stories out there in the Christian Fiction world, but how many of them are for those who are already married and having some marital issues. Couples that grow apart, have miscommunication or maybe no communication. I mean the list goes on and on. We need good examples of how to come back together. We need to know that we're not alone, and other couples struggle. Ericson brings that to light in a beautiful way.

Rebecca and Nathan sure had their problems, ones that a lot of us can relate to. And sometimes, as Ericson shows us in this story, we let those problems dictate what happens to our marriage. We lose the will to fight. We lost the will to communicate. Until we reach that point where we realize that maybe there is something there worth fighting for.

I love how Ericson brings this couple back together. We see their hurts, their struggles, and their attempts to move forward. I will be coming back to this book several times in the future! Highly recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca was finding being a mother to three young boys overwhelming, but thought her marriage was solid enough - until Nathan walked out. Now she's trying to pick up the pieces and work out where things went wrong - and whether they can be fixed. Nathan is tired of never feeling good enough and more than ready to start fresh. But is walking away from his 10-year marriage really the only answer? Can the pair find a way to get their marriage back on a solid footing, or is it time to cut their losses?

This is a relatively unusual sort of romance, but a type that it might be helpful to see more of - if done well as this is. So many romances finish with the proposal or wedding, but marriage isn't easy - and this story deals with a marriage gone sour. But it's not a story of failure or turning one's back on promises, but a story of redemption and forgiveness. And it doesn't make it look easy. The result is a satisfying, deeply heart-warming and inspiring story. Highly recommended.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One Who Promised Forever is a story that hits closer to home than most marriages want to admit. Rebecca and Nathan let the frustrations with having 3 boys to deal with and the frustrations that go along with being tired or out of sorts and they let their mouth say things that hurt the other. When Nathan moved out it was something that Rebecca could not get her head around. She blamed Nathan, she blames herself. But during counseling, they both realize that a hurt that involves both of them pushed aside festers into a much bigger wound to the marriage than just talking about it. When they started talking Nathan admitted something that happened two years ago still was hurting the way he felt about Rebecca. When they got counseling and brought more time talking to Christ back into the picture, their lives changed for the better. They learned a hard lesson that they will not let happen again.

[Heather Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Don't read this book... if you don't want to be convicted about your marriage... or from whom you are seeking your validation and identity! Uff da! While this was a tough read because I saw SO MUCH of the potential for my marriage to easily drift down this path (it has drifted several times before, but thankfully, my husband and I, by the grace of God, realized the cracks in the foundation were there and sought help before it completely crumbled!)

On the flip side, the hope found in this book is incredible. If two people still love each other and are willing to seek God and put in the work, God delights in redeeming our pain. Nathan and Becca's story is so devastatingly sad, but threaded through with the light of hope at the same time!

All in all, I loved it. And have decided to ask God to help me change some of MY behaviors in my marriage. Thank you, Tara, for writing a raw, realistic story of redeemed love.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you do when hundreds of little things (and three children) pile up to become a mountain of separation between you and your spouse? That is the question addressed by this story. There are seldom quick fixes for something like this and as this story pointed out, walking away, is not a very effective way to address the situation. Ms. Ericson did a sensitive but thorough job of laying out the ineffective methods too often used and the difficulty of opening up honest lines of communication, the only really effective solution. She also pointed out that without God's help even open communication goes only so far. I found this a compelling look at the marriage relationship as well as convicting in some instances. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who goes for stories that make you laugh and cry and get so angry that you are ready to do someone harm and then be willing to look at your own relationship.

[Caitlin Nikolai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a book on marriage counseling... but it raises all kinds of good questions for me to ask my husband as a kind of touching base.

See, I often feel like Rebecca did. I'm scared to bring things up because I don't want to upset the status quo. I don't want to make him mad. I'm scared I'll push him away.

I sometimes see some qualities of Nathan in my husband (except he has NEVER made any attempt to leave - thank God!)

So I really felt this book. I had to read it slower because it was so heavy.

But I love how they both ended up fighting for their marriage. I love how Rebecca never stopped praying. I love how Tara reminds us that what we fight isn't against flesh, but against Satan and his crew.

I know these kinds of situations often don't have a happily ever after in real life, but this book gives hope. It reminds us that anything is possible with God, and that marriage is worth fighting for.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful and heartrending book this was—yet filled with hope. It did not sugarcoat the struggles that can be found in marriage and parenting as it pointed to some ways that exhaustion, limited resources, and lack of communication can work to bring dissatisfaction, division and misunderstanding. And it gave insight and some tools for how to avoid or repair some of the pitfalls and show love and understanding to your spouse even in stressful times. Some of the scenes in the book rang true and mirrored my own experiences although, thankfully, my spouse has always hung in there for better or for worse. I think the book was fair to both Nathan and to Rebecca in showing their different perspectives and it managed to even be a little romantic while dealing with a difficult topic. Highly recommend! I received an ARC and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca and Nathan had been married for ten years and had three sons.  Their marriage seemed to be on autopilot with work, the house, and the kids and they had forgotten to really talk with each other.  They both felt like they were unappreciated and overlooked so Nathan moved out.
I liked how they chose their minister to be their mediator so they could talk without fighting.  I also really liked that until they found who they were with God they were not going to be happy with themselves or each other.  
It was so nice to read about a couple sorting through past hurts and building a stronger foundation as they promised each other forever.  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Kitty Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would.

It is apparent that the author put a lot of time, thought, and prayer into this story. And maybe it should be required reading for couples who have been married 10 years or more.

The truths found in the story aren’t unusual ones, or ones most people haven’t heard. But when they are incorporated into fiction they might be able to be absorbed better. Without defensiveness or anger. One of the best quotes: “...if we are looking anywhere other than the Lord for purpose and fulfillment and ultimate satisfaction, we’re going to be disappointed.” Simple, right? Rebecca and Nathan show throughout the story that simple doesn’t mean easy. I read a lot of books, and this is absolutely the best I have read in a long while.

[Bonnie Theel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca was a stay-at-home mom taking care of three young boys. Nathan was a firefighter and just got promoted to Captain. He had a lot on his plate with the new responsibilities at work and supporting his family.

Both of them felt unappreciated by their spouse. Nathan didn't feel like he was what Rebecca needed, so he left and went to stay at his parents' house.

Would they be able to get through all of this? Will they be willing to give their marriage another try?

I feel the author did a very good job writing about this particular subject. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful story of second chances, forgiveness, love and realizing how difficult but wonderful marriage can be and how important communication is. Nathan and Rebecca had been married for 10 years with 3 boys when Nathan decides to move out blindsiding Rebecca. Neither of them realized what they were unintentionally doing to each other and their lack of communication. But they bolt learned if they are to have a successful marriage, they need to have God as the third member of a lasting marriage. I loved how real this story felt. I loved how Tara was able to write such real feelings and emotions, this is a wonderful story, a great addition to a wonderful series!

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this book for what seems like a long time, but the wait was worth it. Tara Grace Ericson has written a story that many need to read, especially those hooked on our wonderful romances. Life doesn’t always follow the happily ever after of the books and in this book, we’re shown two who failed to remember a basic rule of relationships, communications. Rebecca and Nathan love each other, they just expected too much from the other one. They expected mind reading as part of the marriage. The author tackles some pretty tough subjects and does them well. I really can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book.

[Cilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

How easy it is in the busyness of life (especially with small children) to take one's spouse for granted. When there is a tragedy in the past that has been shoved under the carpet and never dealt with, it has repercussions on all involved. It was only when they both stopped the blame game, and became vulnerable enough to share their fears and hurts that healing could begin. Just because you are a Christian doesn't mean you don't make mistakes, and often friends don't know what to say and either abandon one party or both. This book is a reminder it is never too late, and that God can bring restoration - the answer may be simple but never easy. I received an ARC but this review is my own.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nathan and Rebecca have been married for 10 years but neither feels appreciated and miscommunication abounds. When Nathan leaves, Rebecca is stunned. Story of two people who married young and never learned to communicate openly, both keeping things back. With their friends, his coworkers, family and the pastor all rooting for them, can they figure out how to reconcile? Second chance love story with realistic situations and characters and a reliance on God to fulfill them.

Received an ARC and this is my honest, unsolicited review.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Fire Captain Nathan Wells left his wife and children because he didn’t feel she wanted him. Rebecca can’t understand why Nathan left, and would like him to come home. She suggests they talk with a non-related person and they meet with their pastor. Nate finds it’s more than just Rebecca, and he has issues he needs to work through with a counselor. A tender story about second chances and bringing new life to an existing marriage.

[Wren Woodland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well written book. I have to say I was a little leery to read this about two people whose marriage is falling apart, but it was so uplifting and actually made me think of my own marriage and times I’ve fallen into these same practices. It’s about communication and seeing things from your spouse’s pov. It’s about being willing to have the hard conversations. Tara truly was inspired as she wrote these words. I can’t recommend this enough- it’s not a romcom or have a fun meet cute, but it makes you think.
Clean, I received this as an ARC.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I just loved this story. It is very emotional, both heartbreaking and hopeful. The circumstances of Rebecca and Nathan’s marriage breakdown are very real. Many times the everyday things weigh down a marriage and the couple lose sight of the important realities. This story focuses on the rebuilding of their relationship. It also highlights the importance of God in our personal lives and our relationships with others, especially in marriage. I really couldn’t put it down until I finished it.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Rhonda Sledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reveals the true emotions behind so many troubled marriages where the couple either fails to communicate with each other or is so focused on their own hurts and disappointments that they fail to consider what their own partner is going through. This story isn't a fairytale where someone waves a magic wand and "Poof!" the problem goes away. This story gets down to the nitty-gritty of the work involved in sustaining a loving relationship throughout the hardships often encountered in marriage. The story is very engaging and the characters feel like someone you know. I loved this book!

[Sheila Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the feels

This is now my favorite TGE book. I feel like it changes with every new book she writes. This book was a real look into what marriage with children looks like. I could see so much of Tara in Rebecca and I’ve never met her in person. I laughed. I cried. I have felt just like Rebecca and just like Nathan. I have felt defeated and lost in this journey of motherhood. I hope I can learn from them and find my worth in Jesus and not the sink full of dishes I didn’t get to today. I hope I can communicate without being harsh or snarky to my husband.