Love's True Calling

True Calling #1

by Lori DeJong

After years of jumping through other people’s hoops to be all they thought she should be, and enduring a tragedy no mother should, self-described “newbie” Christian, Harper Townsend, has finally found her true calling … and her true love. Until it appears that to follow one may mean leaving the other behind. Adolescent Psychologist, Wyatt McCowan, is beyond delighted to have the-girl-that-got-away back in his life, and his heart. But even as they fall more in love, he realizes that being obedient to God’s calling on each of their lives may pull them apart. She rejected him once in favor of another, which left him hurt and angry. But this time, he can’t fault her for following hard after the God she loves with all her heart, even if it means leaving him once again.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction

342 pages, Paperback

Published June 18, 2023

About the author

Lori DeJong (pronounced DeeYung) is an award-winning contemporary Christian romance author who enjoys penning stories full of grace and the redemptive power of God’s love that inspire others to hope regardless of circumstance, find joy in the moment, and grow in their faith.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Lori arrived in Texas in 2005 and dug those roots right in. She currently resides in beautiful Georgetown, north of Austin, with her husband of thirty years. Other than their two fur-babies, their nest is empty, as their daughter and son-in-law are settled in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.

Lori loves to write about love and romance with a touch of suspense, with a firm foundation of faith. Clean but sassy, sparkly, and even goose-bumpy romance, with God in the middle and characters seeking and learning and changing, couldn’t be more heartwarming or spine-tingly.

Lori is a four-time Selah Award finalist, two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, has been awarded an Angel Award, and placed second in the FHL Reader's Choice Awards. Her debut novel, Love's True Calling, was the 2022 winner of the ACFW Genesis Award for Romance prior to contracting it for publishing. She's also a member of several organizations, including ACFW, Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers, Novel Academy, CenTex Christian Writers, among others. You can visit Lori at https://loridejongwrites.com and sign up for her newsletter for writing updates, book recommendations, a monthly giveaway, and more.

Reviews

[Staci]

Promising contemporary romance with touch of YA debut. I particularly liked the spotlight on the existence of abusive teen relationships.

[Angie Hyche]

Looks like it only took me a few days to devour Lori’s debut novel. It’s a beautiful love story, but so much more! Lori’s main characters are so well-developed, and each one has to grapple with the tensions between social groups that can threaten to bring too much drama to a ministry as well as trying to figure out God’s specific call for them. Their willingness to put God first despite potential heartache is a wonderful model of submission. Looking forward to the next one!

[Kristi Woods]

Am smitten w/Harper and Wyatt’s story! What a fun, memorable opening that unfolds into a beautiful, faith filled romance. Lori DeJong handles tough life situations with compassion, yet brings them to the surface for the characters to deal with in a Jesus-centered way. This is her debut novel, and I highly recommend reading this one and the remainder of the series as it’s released.

[Kelly]

we all need love

I think everyone who works with kids or teenagers needs to read this book. There is not one group who needs love and acceptance more than another. I have to find sequels to this!!! Very well done!

[Linda Aldridge]

I really enjoyed this debut novel. Was gripped and really invested in the lives of the characters. I was bullied all the way through school so this hit close to home for me

[Hannah Otazu]

Loved this book! Such an honest look into sacrifices made to follow your true calling! Loved the hard and real conversations that Wyatt and Harper had to have and how their individual experiences validated the other’s perspectives throughout the book. This was a sweet love story taken to the next level by the Lord’s redemption and grace that was woven throughout it. Looking forward to the next book in the series!!

[Breana Johnson]

Loved this sweet romance! This story follows two people whose high school experience scarred them…and pulled them apart. Now, as adults, they set their sights on guiding teens who are suffering as they once did. But their paths may not be as aligned as they thought. Will their ministry goals bring them together? Or less then in different directions? A thought-provoking read that highlights the seriousness of guiding the next generation and following God’s calling.

[Cover Lover Book Review]

Love’s True Calling is such a charming story of second chances. Add in elements of love, faith, and redemption and I’m elated! This story is quite a treat.

Harper and Wyatt are flawed, believable, and effortless to connect with and I hoped they’d both get what they were searching for. They are both hurting in different ways, and who is a better guide and healer of hearts than God! This Christian story is certain to bless your heart and inspire you in your faith.

I’m so excited that this is the first book in a series. I’ll be first in line to read the next True Calling story!

First Line: Harper had never felt so … old.
Series: True Calling book 1
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Author: Lori DeJong
Page Count: 342

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Teresa Wells]

I loved this book! It’s warm, intelligent, and has a great romance at the heart of it. Lori DeJong has spot-on insight into relationships, whether it’s romantic, parental, friendship, or mentoring. Her characters are authentically flawed but lovable and the conflict believable. I had a hard time not binge reading this story. I can’t wait for the next one to come out, especially since I’ve already “met” the characters. This was a pleasure to read, and I’ve filed it on my Favorites shelf in Goodreads. Though this is a book aimed at adult readers, the focus on youth ministry takes one down memory lane to the problems and joys of adolescence. The characters and situations are so relatable.
Highly recommend.

[Deana Dick]

This story is an easy read and flows well. I loved Harper because Harper has finally started listening to God for her direction. It was funny how she returns to college years later only to run into an old friend. Well I don’t know if I would call Wyatt just a friend. As you read more you discover the history these two have . The backstory on them is pivotal to the book because it lays a foundation of their relationship. It shows how forgiveness can lead to being free from negative thoughts.

The best part of the story for me is when Harper volunteers at ConnectUp. Wyatt is a big part of the organization and at times Harper wasn’t sure he wanted her there. The at risk teens they minister to have real issues and I love how the author handles subjects like depression, suicide, self image, abusive relationships and bullying. Bring a part of the meeting after the kids leave, Harper becomes intrigued by the ministry, I like how Wyatt explains that they use terms that the teens will understand. They break down scripture so it is relatable to them at their level. What a great way to reach the youth and also give personal examples so they see that you do understand what they are going through.

Harper has overcome a tragedy in her life that I didn’t suspect at all. As she talks about it, I felt tears forming and was hoping for her to let go of her pain. In the tough times she seemed to be alone because she didn’t know how to express her feelings. She was surrounded by family but the pain was overwhelming for her. Now it makes sense why she is so drawn to kids. She has a lot to offer but something is holding her back? Is Wyatt not sure she can be trusted? Is he afraid that she will not be able to minister without saying the wrong words? He needs to accept that Harper is not the same person he knew in high school.

The author deals with one particular subject that I am certain we have all faced. Bullying is something that damages a person emotionally and can push them over the edge. When Harper finds out what happened to someone she knew in high school her heart drops. Wyatt all this time has blamed her for being a part of something she had no idea about. I know what it feels like to be bullied in school. I hated going to high school where everyday I was faced with a group of girls who tortured me with their hurtful words. I appreciate how the author talks about bullying in the story and the effects it can have on someone.

This story is such a good look at following your direction from God. Harper struggles trying to figure out if she is being called to ministry. She still feels like she would be letting her parents down if she walked away from a degree. Wyatt is very encouraging and together they start to heal from their past. I loved how the author uses these two characters to illustrate how we can carry hurt for years without realizing that we judged someone unfairly.

I didn’t realize how much this story affected me until the end. Our past can hold us back if we allow it. Harper and Wyatt are good examples of learning to forgive and letting go of the past. Do Harper and Wyatt end up together? Will their paths connect or divide as they each seek God for their future? Don’t miss this powerful story of redemption, opening doors to helping teens and second chances.

“If given to the Lord to use as He sees fit, He’ll turn all of that ugliness into something beautiful.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Amy]

Love. What is love really and what can it look like? Well, this is a story of second chances for the main couple and for the kids in their ministry that they are trying to help. It is also of a story of looking past the cover, so to speak, to go skin deep into the life of someone who is hurting. Not to judge a person by their haves or haves not.

Wyatt and Harper had been the best of friends. Then during their teenage years, Wyatt was considered nerdy and picked on, while Harper grew into a beauty. Their friendship broke down after Wyatt confessed his feelings to her and life got out of control. Wyatt left with a bruised, broken heart and a new purpose for life. Harper did what everybody told her to do.

Then one fateful day they meet again, he a professor and she a student. What happens is a whirlwind of getting to know each other again, Harper becoming involved in Wyatt's ministry, and the help they are giving to kids who don't quite fit in. Until Harper, who has learned a thing or two about herself after a terrible heartbreak, sees another need. One Wyatt does not. Are they to be forever apart due to class status?

This was a very uplifting read of growing past life's hurdle, tragedies, and mistakes and pursuing a present and future that is joyous and a help for others. This story does deal with some hard topics such as bullying, suicide, a child's death, and divorce. In the end, will Wyatt and Harper realize that their best work is together? Second chances for everyone.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...

[Kendra Neal]

Christian Romance books are a favorite Genre of mine. I recently read the Debut Novel for a new Author. Love's True Calling by Lori DeJong is Book 1 in the True Calling Series. I was excited to read a Debut Novel for a new Author and the Synopsis was intriguing!

Harper Townsend is a new Christian and has been through many struggles in life. She is finally at a point in her life where she feels she needs to follow her plans and God's plan for her life, instead of conforming to how others thought she should live. She also has finally found her True Calling in life and has reunited with a former love interest. Wyatt McCowan is an Adolescent Psychologist and is excited that Harper is back in his life. Wyatt and Harper had a relationship at one time, but Harper found someone else and she ended the relationship with Wyatt. Wyatt and Harper both realize that they want to Obey God for their True Calling in life, they also are falling deeply in love with one another. Will Wyatt and Harper follow God's Calling for their individual lives? Will they also follow their hearts for the LOVE they have for another?

A Sweet LOVE Story for Harper and Wyatt! I enjoyed this book as soon as I started reading it and did not put it down until I was done reading. I really LOVE how both Wyatt and Harper are wanting to put God first in their lives, especially being that Harper is a New Christian. Wyatt is a caring person and he really wants Harper to be happy in life and puts her feelings first. The book is Faith Filled and has a great Christian Message. A Book about Faith, LOVE, and Second Chances. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance books. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Gail Hollingsworth]

This was a very moving story with rich content complete with lives changing for the better. Wyatt has begun a thriving ministry geared toward troubled teenagers that feel lost and unloved. This is a place they can come and belong and feel accepted. Harper is just beginning to get back on her feet after the death of both her very young daughter and her marriage. She begins college classes and reconnects with Wyatt her childhood friend. She is a new Christian that is seeking God’s will and direction in her life. She has a heart for teenagers but her idea of ministry to them does not coincide with Wyatt’s vision.
I was deeply moved by Harper and her sincerity and devotion to God. She was spending time in her Bible and praying for wisdom and guidance. I enjoyed seeing how the two of them reached out to the young people in the area and even led some to Christ.
Wyatt had some deep seated hatred toward a fellow student from high school. His anger and bitterness was never let go of and this eats at him.
Can good come from two such broken souls?
This was the author’s debut novel and I’ll be looking for more from her in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

[Nora St Laurent]

This is a romance story focusing on the relationship between Harper and Wyatt takes some unanticipated twists and turns. They knew each other since high school so much has changed.

This couple faces difficulties they’ve had in the past. Harper’s life has turned around. She is earnestly seeking God’s will for her life. It isn’t easy but Wyatt is trying to l see Harper through new eyes – like the way God sees her. Some of the topics covered in this book include bullying, teen suicide, helping children in danger, and parents who neglect their children. Following the calling God has placed on their lives, even if it means leaving someone you love deeply. I liked how this author had a deep faith message throughout this novel without being preachy. I liked that about this debut novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog

[Patti Pierce]

Love’s True Calling by Lori DeJong is a Christian Contemporary Romance. “Newbie Christian” Harper Townsend finally believes she has found her calling. When she enters a class for her degree, she is surprised to find a man from her childhood. Adolescent Psycologist Wyatt McGowan practices psychology, teaches classes at a Christian college, and helps run. a non-profit for teenagers wo are struggling and trying to build connections.

When the pair find themselves back together, they work to overcome the pain from their past and work to build a positive future together with each other and for those around them

As someone who often struggle to belong and fit in, this book really spoke to my heart. Lori DeJong did an excellent job building the characters and develloping the storyline. I would love to see more books about the characters and the backstories. and stories of the characters in this book.

So if you enjoy Christian Contemporary Romances, check out Love’s True Calling by Lori DeJong for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Laura Salas]

I recently had the opportunity to join Lori DeJong’s “Love’s True Calling” launch team. I met Lori more than a year ago when we were both part of the same small critique group and then later also interacted as we took a writing class in an online conference. Even back then, when Lori shared a few pages of her manuscript with me, her novel captivated me. I wanted more. There was something about the relationship between Harper and Wyatt that the romance book reader in me loved. So when Lori asked in her social media who wanted to receive an Advanced Reader Copy, I jumped at the opportunity. I was not disappointed. The story is every bit as deep and interesting as I had perceived it to be from the snippet I critiqued in the past.

Love’s True Calling hits the romance genre expectations, the character arcs for each POV character, and their spiritual growth. However, it is far from formulaic due to the profound subject matter it tackles and its surprising plot.

[B.D. Lawrence]

The book is Christian Romance about God’s calling to ministry. The underlying theme of this book is about helping teenagers through this troubled world we live in. The message the author elegantly plays out in this story is that there are teenagers in all social circles that need help, that are lonely, that are lost, that are hiding the real challenges they are facing.

It's this clash of philosophies between Harper and Wyatt that drives the conflict in the book. Everyone needs the love that Jesus provides. And just because someone looks like they have it all together, that doesn’t mean he or she isn’t struggling.

If you’re a parent of teenagers, or if you’re a teenager that isn’t sure you have it all together, you need to read this book. And if you’re a teenager that thinks you do have it all together, you really need to read this book. And of course, anyone that loves a good, clean romance should read it.

[Amy]

I found Love's True Calling to be a great debut for the talented author, Lori DeJong. I enjoyed getting to know Harper and Wyatt. I thought their story was one that was true to life and believe many readers would be about to connect with them. I really liked the faith element, especially showing of God’s plan. I thought it was a beautiful tale that has some wonderful and important life lessons. Such a beautiful book to read.

I am giving Love's True Calling a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans of clean romantic fiction will want to give it a read. I would love to read upcoming releases from Lori DeJong in the near future.

I received a digital copy of Lori DeJong’s Love's True Calling from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Connie Hill]

Love’s True Calling is the debut novel that is written by Lori DeJong. This was a sweet heartwarming Christian Contemporary Romance. Her characters are well developed and the author has captured realistic situations.

Harper Townsend and Wyatt McCowan had some experiences that scarred them. However, they are in a different point in their lives. I love that the author has put topics in that are realistic. This includes: Bullying, suicide, and kids from broken homes. Both Harper and Wyatt want to make sure they are living out their calling from God. They are thrilled to be reunited - but what happens if God makes it clear they both need different paths.

I hope to read more from this author. This book was a good read. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Lori Altebaumer]

Such a sweet story of lives restored and love reclaimed! This debut novel from Lori DeJong has all the right stuff for a sweet romance, but it is so much more. Built on a firm foundation of biblical healing, it includes with a raw honesty, the reality of the wounds people carry. Through the healing stories of Wyatt and Harper, the reader is drawn into the reality of "hurt people hurt people." But DeJong doesn't shed a light on the subject, she walks the reader into the beautiful picture of what healing can be, planting the seeds of a better tomorrow in the hearts of her readers. What a debut novel and a grand step into to the world of authors for Lori DeJong. Can't wait for her next book!

[Charlotte]

Harper Townsend’s journey is deeply moving and inspiring. I loved seeing her grow from someone living under others’ expectations to a woman fully pursuing God’s calling, even when it meant risking her heart. Wyatt’s character is equally compelling, torn between love and faith, and the chemistry between them is palpable. The story beautifully explores devotion, forgiveness, and the tension between following God and following your heart. I appreciated the emotional depth and realistic struggles of the characters it felt genuine and heartfelt. This book will resonate with anyone who believes in love, faith, and finding courage in life’s toughest moments.

[Amy Anguish]

Such a great story of forgiveness, understanding that things aren't all they seemed, and love. Pretty sure I experienced every feeling while reading this. The author does a great job of weaving in a history for her characters that's rich in mistakes and fumbles, but also helps them grow to be stronger and better because of it. The beautiful theme of redemption, accepting others--no matter who they are--and learning to forgive oneself all add to the sweet love story. What a great start for this author, and I look forward to many more books.

[Deena Adams]

I thoroughly enjoyed this Christian Contemporary Romance by debut author, Lori DeJong. She didn't shy away from addressing the hard topic of suicide and brought a strong spiritual element to the story many books are missing. The second-chance romance was believable and engaging. I was fully invested in the characters and their journey and loved how the book centered around at-risk youth.

I encourage you to take a chance on this new author. I don't think you'll be disappointed!

*I received an advance copy of this book and was not required to provide a review. All opinions are my own.

[Myra Johnson]

An absolutely beautiful debut novel that touches on important themes, not the least of which is learning to see past outward appearances and class differences to the human struggles that are common to all. DeJong addresses the subject with tact and tenderness as Harper and Wyatt rediscover each other years after their very different high school experiences. As the past slowly comes to light, each will have to do some growing and changing if they're going to keep their love alive while following the path God has set before them. The book's title couldn't be more fitting.

[Vicki Holt]

I don’t normally read romances, but I know the author Lori Dejong’s parents through my church and went to a book review where Lori spoke about her writing. She has done an outstanding job of of telling a story about main characters Wyatt and Harper falling in love and also about their love for teenagers that are struggling but most of all about their love for God. This book has been nominated for and/or won several awards and is one of the best Christian romances I have ever read.

[Mary Johns]

This author's debut novel was a wonderful read! She has a gift for story. She takes gritty topics, goes deep, and wraps them with Christlike solutions. Plenty of plot twists to keep readers engaged, the characters were believable, and the love story was authentic. Great job!! I'll be looking forward to more from Lori DeJong.

[Liana George]

I truly enjoyed Lori DeJong's debut novel! It was well-written and full of heart. Although it was a sweet romance of love renewed, it also touched on heavy subjects that aren't often discussed in Christian novels. If you are looking for a great read that also dives deep, you'll want to grab a copy of this novel!!

[Christina Rost]

When you step into Harper and Wyatt’s story in Love’s True Calling your emotions take a journey through broken hearts, healing, and forgiveness. Lori Dejong’s debut novel is the first in the True Calling Series and she does a wonderful job of weaving heart-string issues with romance. If you are looking for a warm-hearted read, I definitely recommend Love’s True Calling!

[Debbie]

I really liked “Love’s True Calling” by Lori DeJong. It was really inspirational. It was about heartache and redemption and forgiveness. This is a story that shows headaches can be used for God’s glory and our good.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Paula Peckham]

Wow. What a great story. I loved how Lori DeJong takes a topic we’re all familiar with - clique and groups at school - and shows how deep-seated our beliefs can be. This made me examine myself. A great story of God’s love and having the courage to trust Him with everything. Well done, Lori.