Speak Now

by Chautona Havig

They met at a wedding and his children stole her heart. What started as a polite dance at the reception initiated a whirlwind romance. He admires her heart–not to mention her beauty. She feels more comfortable with him than anyone she’s ever met.

Their chemistry–so intense that they can’t risk affection. Their temptation threshold is simply too narrow to risk.

Cara has a unique talent for making anyone feel at ease. Jonathan prefers to listen rather than speak.

But some things must be spoken–never assumed.

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

355 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 30, 2013

About the author

**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**

Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.

Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25

Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.

They’re for you.

When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.

Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.

And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”

Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.

But I do.

And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!

And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.

I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read five chapters of Speak Now before I gave up on it. It just seemed silly to me to mention over and over (in virtually every sentence) the fact that the newly-acquainted couple communicated without words. After 5 chapters there was no sign of any plot coming up.

[Jan Farmer]

I got back Sunday from a visit with my friends in Rockland. Or at least when I read one of Chautona Havig's books that's what it feels like. All of her Rockland characters show up across all of the Rockland Chronicles and even though you are visiting more with one particular group, they are all there in the background to say hi to you.
I am a Christian and I am embarrassed to admit that I did not read Christian Fiction. Just couldn't seem to find an interesting story. Then my best friend loaned me the first Hartfield Mystery and I was hooked. I now am only two short of owning everything Chautona's has written and those will be in my library soon. I never understood why some authors would write such explicit sex scenes that just took up pages, no real addition to the story. With Chautona' s books you get more story per book. And the romance is even better for having left some things to your imagination. Jonathan and Cara could not have been more in love, and faced the same temptations non-Christians feel. They just had a strong faith to guide them in the right direction. I also loved the part where Cara realized that Jonathan was wealthy. It was a realistic reaction and one I applauded.
If you want a great story and a romantic love story then grab Speak Now and visit with the people in Rockland. Once you finish that one there are plenty more for you to enjoy. Each story unique but still once you read one her books are like a visit with friends

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chautona Havig has very quickly become one of my all-time favorite authors. Just over a year ago, I didn't even know who she was, but now I have read almost every book she has written, and it is simply time that has kept me from reading them all. She has a gift for telling stories that deal with e...

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this story because it is a look at a couple who at times have trouble communicating. It isn’t unusual for one to be more talkative than the other, but in this case the man hardly speaks at all. The way the author uses facial expressions and eye contact is very intriguing. I started thinking about body language and how it can say a lot about someone without them saying a word. I was intrigued by where the author would take the two main characters and decided I would settle in for a day and get to know Cara and Johnathan .

Cara is an easy character to like with her simple tastes and knack for putting people at ease. I thought it was cute that Johnathan’s daughter was mesmerized by Cara at a wedding. She kept telling her dad that she was beautiful and is determined that they meet. I think it was an awkward moment for Johnathan but Cara quickly tried to put him at ease as they got to know each other. Now I don’t know if you can love someone at first sight, but there sure was something going on between these two.

Johnathan is a very quiet person and it bothered me at times. How was he going to have a relationship with Cara if he never expressed his feelings? What I learned as I read the story is sometimes words don’t need to be spoken to understand each other. Johnathan may keep things to himself but there were times when he felt it was important to let Cara know how he felt. I appreciate him reassuring her that she was perfect just the way she was. I didn’t realize how wealthy he was but as the story continues we find out just how powerful he is in his position at the company.

The most significant part of the story for me was how gracefully the author tackled the issue of intimacy before marriage. It is obvious that Cara and Johnathan are attracted to each other, but they want to honor God and do not let temptation deter them from their beliefs. Oh I know it was difficult at times for them but what a testament to their steadfast faith. The author takes two characters that are definite opposites and places them together in a relationship that goes through some rough times. Taking each day at a time, you can see how these two begin to communicate in sweet ways by a look or a gesture that says they are interested in each other. I think Johnathan had this gift of surprising Cara with plans that took her breath away. Okay I have to say ,“Actions speak louder than words.” There I said it. This book speaks loudly with actions of gifts, a sweet smile, a flower, compromises and most of all unconditional love expressed through the eyes of the beholder.

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

[Robbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm at a loss for words when it comes to writing this review. Chautona Havig's books are fantastic. They're always faith-based, wonderfully written and contain humorous and light-hearted moments. Speak Now contains those characteristics as well. Havig, however, appears to be endeavoring too hard to get her points across. Other than the significance of avoiding intimacy before marriage, which she emphasized, I'm not sure what Havig was trying to establish.

The main characters in Speak Now were well developed. Cara Laas' persona drew me in, especially because of her compassion and love for children. Jonathan Lyman was likable, and his children, Bryson and especially Riley, were adorable.

The plot was credible, but there were certain details that I had a tough time believing. The capacity of Jonathan and Cara to express questions and answers, especially deep ones, only through their eyes was the most problematic thing for me. I couldn't envision their abilities when they had only known each other for such a brief time. There were other things I struggled with, but I don’t want to give away any spoilers.

I still enjoy Havig's stories, but this one didn't appeal to me.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel that the hopes and dreams of many young women and girls center around this theme: that although we may be our own person, there is a special someone out there that understands us and makes us a better person. Cara and Jonathan are the "gold standard" that I believe we feel is the embodiment of a true couple. Understanding when to speak, what to say, and how to comfort are all important lessons that are often under-emphasized nowadays, so to see that evolve in their relationship was nice to read. I am not a particularly religious person, but I still enjoy Christian reads, and I would definitely read this again. As a sidenote, I did receive this book in exchange for a review, but I really feel that Ms. Havig writes heartwarming storylines and it is worth exploring her books if you enjoy wholesome Christian romances.

[Marilyn Biren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book was really amazing. I hate that word, but I really liked this book! At first, I thought it might be a little hokey, that the two main characters were able to communicate without speaking, but as it went on it grew on me. They had that kind of a connection. I enjoyed reading this down to earth romance. I will have to read more of Ms Havigs work.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! I hope she writes a squel. A great Christian love story without all the smut.

[Janelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really don’t know where to start with this review. I guess I should start with the fact that Chautona Havig is one of my favorite authors, and I was really looking forward to reading Speak Now, it has been on my TBR pile ever since it came out. It sounded interesting and I had really high expectations for it. However, I didn’t love it, and I’m sad that I didn’t.

First, though, I do have to commend the author with tackling the topic of chemistry and temptation in relationships, especially when both parties want to honor their commitment to save themselves for marriage. I thought it was an interesting concept for a novel, however I do wish there had been more communication between the couple on the subject matter. Which I think brings me to one of the things I didn’t like, and that was the lack of communication sometimes between the couple, but not only that, but also the lack of conflict too. Not that there needed to be full-blown fight, but I honestly expected there to be more conflict. Also, they never really talked about the future until the last 60 pages of the book. I get it in some ways, but it also seems like the nature of their relationship really should have warranted some of those discussions.

I did like getting to know the characters, however, I did find some of Cara’s thoughts about her own body a little bit uncomfortable. However, I think that has more to do with my own insecurities and I think it reminded me too much of thoughts that I have about my own body sometimes. I also liked getting to know Jonathan, but there were times I feel like he was a little inconsiderate of Cara, and I think that has to do with their lack of communication on some very important topics. I loved getting to know his children, Riley and Bryson, they definitely stole the show sometimes (in a good way), and I loved how he cares for them, and considers them when trying to make decisions about the future. I also loved Cara’s mom, Diane, and reading about the different designs she is working on throughout the novel.

Overall, Speak Now wasn’t my favorite Chautona Havig book, but I think that also has to do with my high expectations for it, and not necessarily the book itself. I loved revisiting Rockland and Fairbury, and I really do hope we get to read more about Cara and Jonathan and where their lives go after the end of Speak Now, and I would definitely read it. While this book wasn’t my favorite, it was still a somewhat enjoyable read, and I really can’t wait to read more from Chautona Havig in the future. 3/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

[Robin Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you just know. Sometimes the connection is inexplicable, soul deep; deep calls unto deep.
Ms. Havig boldly took on a topic not often ventured, especially in Christian fiction—the struggle to maintain abstinence before marriage. She allows her characters the natural passion and, yes, burning desire. She also gives them strength to resist and the wisdom to know their limits. I applaud her for her courage and honesty. For giving her reader characters who are true and authentic, and very real.
This reader loves good dialogue in a story; it can be a make it or break it factor. And Ms. Havig writes crisp, sparkling dialogue. Great banter. Intense conversations. Except—Jonathan doesn’t talk. Not much anyway. So… dialogue is doubly interesting in this story.
And Cara. “A master at making others comfortable.” Herself, not so much. Can I ever relate to that! And rooted for her on all the more.
Even with their connection, both Jonathan and Cara resist the obvious attraction. Both deny themselves the possibility of love. This reader grew frustrated with them, while cheering them on. “Kiss the girl,” I sang. “Kiss the girl.” And yet applauding their dedication to their convictions.
Beautiful love story, wonderful characters, delightful telling.

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, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Speak Now, Chautona Havig, Celebrate Lit Publicity

[Donna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Speak Now is a contemporary Christian Romance by Chautona Havig.
It is set in Havig’s Rockland Universe so it contains some of her previous characters, however this is a standalone novel so you don’t need a knowledge of her universe to enjoy this book.

What you might need to know:
Jonathan’s wife died prior to the start of this book.

What I think you should know:
I LOVE Havig’s Rockland and automatically read anything she has written, the down side of this is I didn’t pay enough attention to realize that Jonathan’s wife I died, if I had I would have probably skipped this book and for once I am glad that I didn’t pay attention to the blurb. This was such a sweet story, I really enjoyed getting to know Cara and seeing her from both her own perspective and from Jonathan’s. The relationship between them was very interesting to read as their relationship developed. I appreciate that Jonathon recognized that he did not need a physical element to their relationship and drew strong boundaries. It was also interesting to watch Cara who was raised in a middle class family recognize how Jonathon’s wealth made his choices much different than hers. I love how the story gave small glimpses into some of Havig’s other books. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Rockland.

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

[Nyla Kay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Speak Now by author Chautona Havig is a contemporary Christian romance. Her books are usually a favorite of mine and easy to review, but Speak Now has me speechless. I am not certain what to say or even think about this book.

This is the story of Cara Laas and Jonathan Lyman. They met at a wedding, and his young children, Bryson and Riley, were more enamored with her than the bride. These children were absolutely adorable. In fact, they were my favorite part of the book. Cara and Jonathan were well developed characters. At times I could relate to them, but other times I was shaking my head in disbelief at their actions. This is a sweet romance that at times had outrageously bold things done that were frankly too unbelievable for a newly acquainted couple.

Conversations were a bit far fetched. Cara and Jonathan had many deep conversations so quickly. At times it seems they were able to do so with only their eyes. This is something that comes only from a deep connection with someone developed over time. I enjoyed the humor and the spiritual message. Those are two constants that I can depend on in a Chautona Havig book. The message of no sex before marriage is strong in this book.

To be honest, this book just left me confused. I am still thinking about what the author was trying to convey to her readers. Even though I love most of the author’s other books, this one totally missed the mark with me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book begins with an almost love-at-first-sight moment: Jonathan Lyman is immediately drawn to Cara Laas as she walks down the aisle as a bridesmaid at a wedding. A widower of several years, Jonathan is startled by his immediate strong feelings for her. As she’s walking down the aisle, Cara first notices Jonathan’s beautiful young daughter and son; but then sees Jonathan and recognizes the instant connection between them. I was quickly drawn into their story because they both were such good people who deserved to find happiness together. The author allowed us to get to know these characters very well and that made their story more believable.

I appreciated the fact that although both Jonathan and Cara were physically attracted to each other, they decided to keep their first kiss for their wedding day. They would not even hold hands at times to keep their attraction under control. Although I truly admired this aspect of the book, the repeated mentions of their attraction/control issue got quite tiring by the end of the story. What I loved most about the book was the way they had to learn to clearly communicate with each other, even though they were somewhat opposites in how they went about this. As always, Chautona Havig has given us wonderful characters to cheer on to their happily-ever-after. I’ve read many books by this author and this story is now one of my favorites she’s written.

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

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speak Now is written by Chautona Havig. Chautona has written so many books that I have read lately. She is mega talented and I always enjoy everything that I read by her. One thing you can count on when you read her stories. Unique characters. In this case we meet Cara and Jonathan. Cara is a bridesmaid in a wedding. An adorable toddler mistakes her for a bride. This causes Jonathan (the child's father) and Cara to meet. I love that it was love at first site. One problem. Jonathan is ONLY in Rockland for the wedding and lives a long distance away. The two see each other every day while he is in town.

The book will cover a pure relationship. It covers abstinence before marriage. I enjoyed reading a book about that since this is something that seems to be desolate in our society. The characters are unique and have differing personalities. I enjoyed watching them navigate and communicate throughout the book.

This is part of the Rockland Chronicle series. I have not read any other books in the series. They can be read as stand alone stories. The story flows nicely. The author has a real talent and craft with her stories.

I received a copy of this story through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love at first sight? Instant love? Do these exist? I think this is what Jonathan was thinking when he first sees Cara walk down the aisle as a bridesmaid at a wedding. Jonathan had already been in love and lost his wife to disease after she gave him two adorable children. He didn't ever think he would fall again and not like this.

That is how I understood Jonathan and his rules he also set in place while he dated Cara. No kissing and no touching. I think he really wanted to make sure they could make it work. It was a bit of a long distance relationship and Jonathan was not a talker. And Cara understood that and seemed to understand him better the more they got to know one another.

This was an interesting story. I will admit that I felt confused at times as to whether these two really wanted to be in a relationship or if they were just experimenting with a new way of dating. Well life circumstances kept them going and coming back to one another and they just couldn't seem to stay away. Do they find their happily ever after? Read it and see.

I was provided 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.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read Speak Now about six years ago. It was one of the few books by Chautona Havig that I actually bought—she gave me copies of most of her books! I was pretty disappointed in it at that time; it is focused on the romance more than a lot of her other books, and I prefer to have more of a plot than just romance. I signed up to review it now, though, just because I like Chautona so well, and read it again. What do I think of it now?

I appreciated the portrayal of a couple who were determined to honor God in their relationship and not sin with each other. I also appreciated Chautona’s carefulness to not arouse feelings in her readers with descriptions of kisses. The cleanness of her romances always favorably impresses me. I enjoyed the story this time through, although it still isn’t my favorite of her books. I may well read it again sometime, however—I really appreciated a lot of aspects of it!

I received a review copy of this book from the author, although I had bought it six years ago, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Randi Sampson]

I must say that I absolutely adore Chautona Havig, I really do. I truly have loved just about everything I have read from her regardless of the genre. So, when I sat down to read Speak Now, I was really excited and had high expectations for what was to come. I have to admit that I think those high expectations might have set me up for a little bit of a letdown though. Don't get me wrong--- it wasn't a bad story by any means... it was enjoyable enough, I just wasn't quite as drawn into these characters and the story as much as I have been with some of her other work. As I said though, it was still an enjoyable story and I think if I didn't have the others to compare it to, I might have enjoyed it all that much more. It was a sweet romance story and one that fans of Christian romance are sure to want to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speak Now is another great story by Chautona Havig. It is part of her The Rockland Chronicles series. Even though, it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. I found it to be a wonderful. I adored characters, Jonathan and Cara, and I enjoyed spending time with them. I, especially, felt an instant connection to Jonathan and understood what he was going through. I was entertained from start to finish.

I am giving Speak Now a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who are looking for sweet and clean romantic reads. I would love to read more like this by Chautona Havig in the future, as well as, the other books from The Rockland Chronicles series.

I received a digital copy of Speak Now from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Carol Keen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Johnathan doesn't talk. He's almost special needs in that way. Cara didn't want a new relationship, but she loves his kids. Then they have an attraction so they decided to not touch or talk. Okay, I can grasp not touching, but not talking would be a huge problem. Can they make this work?

Something with this book and me didn't mesh well. I'm not sure what the author was aiming for, beyond no you-know-what before marriage, but it also felt weird because he has been married. He should know more about how to live and interact. It's clean, but the ending feels rushed and confused me. I have gotten lost somewhere. The kids stole the show, some books about them would be fun, but I wish I could figure out what I'm missing here.

My digital copy came from Celebrate Lit. This review is what I thought about this book. A positive review is never required.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Speak Now" by Chautona Havig is a book that I liked and parts that didn't seem "Real life" to me. I loved the two children and how Cara instantly fell in love with them. From the start , I was "What, you let a man in your room and let him pick out what you are going to wear on a first date. And, yes I am shy and not very talkative till someone gets to know me, but how can you have all those dinner dates and not talk but have silent conversations and be comfortable. I through it was weird to go to a cemetery for a date, I would think that would come later in the relationship. I like that the focus of this story is to keep a romance pure till marriage. This a book that reader seems to either like or dislike. I am in the middle. I would like to read a sequel to this book.


I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these are my own opinions

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Chautona's novels and this one was no exception! It is just a delightful romance! The characters were lovable, charming most of the time and the strong story line kept me engaged from the first to the last page of the book. I was particularly taken in to a loving relationship with the little girls who fell in love with Cara from the first meeting. What a wonderful little matchmaker, one of them was. The romance between Cara and Jonathon is not always smooth , as in reality. There are challenges and communication issues. Isn't that true of any relationship in life??? Can love overcome their problems??

A great read!!

[Elly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me preface my review by saying that I adore Chautona Havig and her writing style. She creates charming characters and sweet romances that I just love. That said, this wasn't my favorite of her books. I had a really hard time getting into the book and it just didn't hold my attention the way most of her works do. The characters had chemistry and I swooned at their "meet-cute" but beyond that, I just struggled with it! Perhaps it just wasn't what I was in the mood to read right now, and I will give it another shot later on. I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review

[Joy Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes I have to be reminded that gentlemen do exist - and they aren't all taken. Speak Now was a sweet little romance that touched on the struggles to make right choices and the communication breakdowns that can happen. Personally, I would rather have a suspense or a comedy with a light dose of romance rather than the other way around, but Chautona never fails to make me laugh, and her writing is always solid. No cringing required. A lovely clean romance. If you want to tie up some of the "hinted" loose ends, you'll enjoy her other books.

[Peggy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Opine on "Speak Now"

I usually love Ms. Havig's work, but not so much this one. It went on and on and with basically the same scenario. The book seemed to last such a long time, then BAM!! It's over, and leaves you hanging. I'm sure others will have a different opinion, and that's what this is.....my opinion.

In spite of it, I will not let it stop me from looking forward to her writings. God bless

[Wendy H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A clean romance with likeable characters. I enjoyed the story all the way through, rooting for the main characters as I followed their romance. The ending felt a little too abrupt and not quite finished for my liking but in all fairness to the author, this may be leading to a follow up. I would definitely recommend

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! I didn’t realize it was a prequel book to “Corner Booth”, so it was fun to put some things in context accordingly.

Very fun and unique read. Having has a gift for coming up with romances that don’t follow the “tried and true” formulas.

[Joelle Teague · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breathtaking

What an amazing love story and amazing connection between 2 people. I greatly enjoyed this story and the characters. There were many moments that just made me happy and required me to keep reading. A great love story.

[Lynda Knapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable!

Wow - Cara and Jonathan were so realistic. This story was well-written. Chautona Havig can certainly weave a story. I definitely recommend this book.

[LaShunda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

The relationship between the two main characters is interesting and at times difficult to follow. But, the story is pretty amazing. This was an interesting read.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Fairytale

This book was riveting from the first chapter. It was a nice blend of information mixed with mystery. It left the door open for the next book.