Roadtrip to Redemption

Pawleys Island Paradise #1

by Laurie Larsen

It started as a trip to lose old memories. It became a journey to find her heart.

Leslie Malone faces an empty, lonely summer. Her marriage is over. Her daughter is overseas, living her dream. Her students are enjoying a carefree summer break. What's the purpose of her life if she's not a wife, mother and teacher? The idea of a roadtrip beckons her. Aimless wandering? Or inspired discovery? A woman of faith, she asks God for His guidance, then does her best to follow His direction.

Hank Harrison is a quiet man, good with his hands, but short on words. He's paid a heavy price for not forgiving his son for horrible mistakes made years ago, mistakes with vast consequences. Hank recognizes Leslie as an answer to his prayers, and together, they begin to mend their futures.

Neither of them plans to fall in love. Will the worst summer of Leslie's life become the season that redeems them both?

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Fiction, Amazon, Contemporary Romance

314 pages, Paperback

First published April 24, 2014

About the author

Beachy, heartwarming and inspirational, Laurie Larsen's love stories contain a bit of faith in addition to the Happily Ever After. Her beloved Pawleys Island Paradise series gained fans, not only because of the stories and unforgettable characters, but the "arrogantly shabby" real-life island setting.

A multi-award winning author, she's won the EPIC Award for Best Spiritual Romance, the Illumination Book Award for Inspirational Romance Fiction and the eLit Award for Religious Fiction.

Laurie began her writing career back when she was juggling a challenging day job in Information Technology Management. Bewildered as to how an English major who loved to read discovered herself in a highly technical career path, writing became her creative release. Because "all good things come to those that wait," her reward finally arrived: retiring from the day job, moving to the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry and writing novels full-time; at least, in between lathering on the sunscreen, walking the beach, and entertaining her feisty rescue pup, Weezer.

A member of Romance Writers of America for fifteen years, now, she's the President of an American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. She's lived her own Happily Ever After for over thirty years.

Want to stay in touch with Laurie?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlaurie...
Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/25728...
Newsletter: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/re...
Website: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lauri...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Laurie-Larsen/...?

Reviews

[M.J. Schiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read and enjoyed several of Laurie Larsen's novels, but she REALLY shines when she writes inspirational romance, in my opinion. It just seems to fit her voice seamlessly. I loved all of the little stories within the story and she had me crying SEVERAL times, for different reasons. I liked the way the characters prayed and the overall message that we should listen and follow God's voice and try to discern when we are making decisions for us, or for Him. I can't wait to read Jeremy's story and see what Larsen has cooked up for him. He was one of my favorite characters.

[Mary Bernsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for a honest review*

I don't usually read contemporary romances. When I was approached about reviewing this, I had literally just received a bombshell in my own personal life. Something (I credit Him) told me to take this one on, and to put at the very top of my TBR list. I listened to that little voice, and I can't begin to tell you how glad I am that I did.

This beautifully written story gives a gentle but clear reminder that we have to allow God to lead us where he wants us to end up. Instead of focusing on what we think we need, we have to be patient and trust Him enough to reveal it in His own time.

I am an avid reader of romance. This was the simplest and still most endearing romance I have read to date. It is an adult relationship through and through. It was absolutely a pleasure to have been given the opportunity to enjoy this story.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this trip of a woman who finds herself empty nesting and being dumped by her husband for a younger woman. I like her taking back control of her life and letting God lead her as she takes this journey. This story shows God's healing power and how only He can give you a clean heart and move you easily from one place to another using you in the process for His means. Yes things move fast and things go sideways. But overall it is a good read which I really enjoyed and I will read more from this author.

[Melody Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book. Read a few years ago.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roadtrip to Redemption is a beautifully written and heartwarming story that follows one woman's roadtrip that turns into an inspirational journey that will change her life.

After twenty years of marriage, third grade teacher Leslie Malone is newly divorced and suddenly finds herself all alone for the summer. Daughter Jasmine is not coming home from college, she has been accepted to attend a summer abroad program in Paris for a once in a lifetime fashion internship. Facing long summer days alone ahead of her, and with no plans or anything important to do, Leslie is at a crossroads in her life. Leslie decides to hit the road for destinations unknown ... Traveling from her home in Pittsburgh, Leslie's roadtrip becomes an inspirational journey of self-discovery to the tranquil beach of Pawleys Island, South Carolina ... a journey filled with friendly encounters, adventures, an unexpected second chance at love, and a new outlook on life.

Author Laurie Larsen weaves a lovely story that invites the reader to follow Leslie's journey as she discovers a new purpose in her life after a devastating divorce. You can't help but become captivated with this uplifting story of rediscovering faith, love, and learning to move forward in life. From meeting fascinating new people to rediscovering herself, and the unexpected plans that God has in store for her, Leslie's story will leave a smile on your face.

I loved the unexpected adult romance that develops between Leslie and Hank Harrison. They are two middle aged people who both face issues in their lives, yet they get a refreshing second chance at discovering love.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the author easily transports the reader to the different locales on Leslie's roadtrip with her rich descriptions that culminates at the final destination on the tranquil beaches of Pawleys Island.

I am looking forward to reading Tide to Atonement, the second book in the Pawleys Island Paradise series.

Roadtrip to Redemption is a wonderful Christian inspirational romance novel that will touch your heart and leave an imprint on your soul.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review.

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[Jonel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Larsen has a very approachable and flowing writing style that not only complements the storyline but also makes you feel like you’re part of it. She draws on your emotions, allowing you to feel for the characters. I found it easy to picture myself in the main character’s shoes. I was quite impressed with the way that Larsen works religious undertones into this novel. Being one who isn’t generally a fan of inspirational/religion based romance novels, I have to say Larsen takes a brilliant approach. Although she makes it obvious that God’s will works its way through this novel, Larsen never preaches at her audience. It’s a brilliant balance.

The characters in this novel are quite well developed. The main character is such a real person that you cannot help but connect with her. Her strength is admirable, yet the vulnerability makes her human. The supporting cast is also quite well put together. I appreciate how everyone complements each other, without being duplicate or unnecessary characters. Not everyone serves a major role in this novel, but they all definitely serve a purpose.

This is an intricately woven tale that will take you on the journey of a lifetime. Disillusionment, self-acceptance, and romance all make their way into the mix for one intimate journey.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to receive a free copy of Laurie Larsen's eBook, Roadtrip to Redemption, in exchange for an honest review.

Inspirational romances have a bit of a love/hate relationship with me. The story and the characters need to be believable and easy to relate to. There also has to be a minimum of sugary sweetness. I think I'm just too old for that.

Thankfully, Laurie's novel got the balance right on all accounts. This first book in the Pawleys Island Paradise series was quite delightful. The main character and her romantic interest were not spring chickens. They had both been through hardships that many boomer readers will relate to.

Laurie also developed the location of Pawleys Island very nicely. I found myself wishing I could visit the Old Grey Barn of the main character's childhood, and I would have given just about anything to stay at the seaside inn. It all sounded delightful.

I was also impressed with the way the author handled the chemistry between the two main characters toward the end of the book. She didn't back away from the reality of it, but dealt with it in a way that showed real feelings submitted to God's will and plan.

So, if you enjoy inspirational romances but are past the dewy-eyed youthful variety, I think you should take a trip to Pawleys Island. It's well worth the visit.

[JadeShea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Roadtrip to Redemption begins when Leslie who is recently divorced decides to get out of town. Her daughter is going out of the country for the summer, and Leslie doesn't want to wallow at home alone since her husband left her. So on her first day out of town she comes across a man having a bad episode on the side of the road. After she stops to help him and his young son get to the hospital, she continues on her journey to meet others who she helps along the way. Then she finally comes to her final destination, the beach. She never expected to meet more people who needed, especially one man who will change her life forever.


This story was truly beautiful, and I adored it. It has romance, and the beauty of one woman looking to find herself in the most beautiful way. The story kept me interest from the very first page, and continued after meeting each new character, and the experiences Leslie had. I highly recommend this book. It was a sweet romance that had you wanting more with each page.

[Luda Sirosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

To start this off I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads giveaways. I am so glad I did!! When I read what the story was about I was disappointed because I thought I couldn't relate to it. But boy was I wrong. This story was so fascinating to read! The vivid descriptions of the beach made me homesick, I wanted to be there! I enjoyed how the main character made her decisions based on answers to prayers. That was very eye-opening to me. Laurie Larsen painted a wonderful picture of two lives that were brought together for a purpose. :) Definitely recommend!

[Stanjay Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gem of a book was free from Barnes and Nobles so I decided to download it to my nook and give it a whirl! So very glad I did! It was awesome!

After her 20 year marriage ends, Leslie is at a standstill in her life...until she decides to follow God's direction for her life! This book was a really awesome feel good kind of book and it definitely showed just what happens when you trust your unknown future to an all knowing God! It was a beautiful love story! 5 stars!

[Kay (Brigidsmomma) Compton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I can't believe I let this great book languish on my Dusty bookshelf! This is a grat Christian romance, full of angst and heartbreak and good feelings as well. Well worth the read, especially for anyone who needs a second chance romance and a healing of the heart.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a great book to read

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

How refreshing it is to read a beautiful love story without any of the smut that is so typical of books today.

[Carly Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshing, inspirational, and thoroughly enjoyable. So nice to read a romance without all the trashy love-making scenes!

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

** This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review **


It's only when you read a certain book do you realize how emotionally caught up your feelings get with the characters. This was one of them, in the sense that to me, it was definitely an easy, calming read. With a lot of my past reads I have clearly been getting tensed along with the characters because with this, I didn't.

It's not a bad thing either.

it makes me want to take a page out of Leslie's book (the saying) and ask God for guidance because her life, although up in the air at the start, made you realize that with a little bit of faith, you can find your path in life.

When a long, lonely summer is placed at Leslie's feet, her daughter in Paris and her husband, now ex-husband rushing to get on with his life and rid himself of his past (the house) Leslie has nothing to do or with now that the school year is over.

On a whim (and I have to say I think things that happen on a whim are the best) she jumps in her car and sets out on her first trip as a single woman in 20 years with nothing but her suit case, GPS and an aim for the sea.

Like Leslie, I adore the sea and hate going places where i can't see it. We all have that one place we took vacations as children that still hold the dearest and best memories from your entire life.

Upon finding 'The Old Grey Barn' on/in Pawleys she stumbles across the handy man... Hank.

From that moment, friendship and romance literally takes off. There isn't anything between them but feelings. No cheating, no lies... nothing. It's perfect and something we all dream about! She helps Hank overcome his biggest fear and reconciles with his Son after 10 years (He's inside.) between them, they seem to grow so much.

At the end of the story... I honestly had a smile on my face... almost to the point of tearing (I probably would have if I wasn't so tired.) It was a book that made me not want to give up hope on everything and everyone.

*sighs*

[Sue Malatesta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so glad a friend of mine recommended and let me borrow this book. I really enjoyed the book, especially because it included Christian prayers. I felt like the prayers included throughout the book, helped me to relate to the character, and also strengthen my own prayers.

I never read a Christian romance book before, but this was an excellent introduction to one. Leslie was very relatable and it was captivating to go through her journey of divorcing, and what life held for her. I could understand how she felt completely out of her realm with being so busy throughout her whole life and then having absolutely nothing for an entire summer. It was inspirational to read how she went on this trip without an itinerary, yet so filled with meaningful interactions. Honestly, it makes you want to be a better person after reading this.

I enjoyed the book being set in Pawley’s Island because I live in Myrtle Beach and could picture the old gray barn house and Leslie’s walks along the beach.
The character development was excellent and I felt like I really knew Leslie, Hank and Jasmine. I was thrilled to see that this is part of a series - I can’t wait to start the next book.

I highly recommend this book!!!! Very refreshing.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book fairly quickly interested me. Mainly because it was a Christian book, whose main character was following the leading of God during her summer break from teaching. That was a refreshing story line. She came in contact with different people that she impacted, even briefly, and you saw how she was letting God lead where she stayed and for how long. She ends up at a little B & B on Pawley's Island. Since this is a series each book focuses on certain characters more than others. This one is on Leslie and her being hit with many changes just as her summer break starts and how she navigates her way through these changes to find her own happiness. There were a few instances in this book that there were abrupt happenings, that for the sake of length could not be given more attention. However, overall, it was a good book and I'm ready to for Book 2.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

After 20 years of marriage, Leslie Malone, finds herself signing divorce papers because of her husbands cheating. Being a school teacher and having the summer off, she decided to take a trip to the ocean and ends up in Pawleys Island. Along the way, you can see God putting her in places she needs to be, she is at the right place at the right time.
When she gets to Pawleys Island she meets Hank, who has his own issues and begins to think Leslie is God's answer to his prayers.
It is nice to pick up a book that shows God working in peoples lives, they pray for guidance but the religion isn't the focus. It is the reality of everyday people, living the life they have and God is in their lives. I found it a refreshing book and a book that God brought into my life at this time. I am going to continue with the series.

[Donna Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blessings

Very well written, Roadtrip to Redemption is the way of life. I myself am a lot like Leslie, most of the time I keep second guessing my self, very frustrating. And when I do make a decision and stuck to it, I feel so much better. I also question, if it is my own self, or God answering a prayer. Hits so close to home. This makes for very good reading. Opened up a lot of choices I need to make. Also want to say, I believe in blessings not luck, as you have written in the book. Also there was a sentence I did not like reading, using Gods name in vain. Always remember that when writing a spiritual book. Except for those two words, I enjoyed this book. Would recommend.

[Christine L. Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful second chance for love story after divorce. The characters are so well developed that I actually found myself giving them shape as I read the story even without the mention of the resemblance to a well-known movie star. The setting was described in detail to the point you could almost smell the salt air. I especially appreciated seeing how the female lead was willing to be of service to others without asking anything in return was a good reminder of doing the same thing in my own life.

The only part of the book I didn't like was the rushed ending that seemed a bit out of character for the male lead. It was wrapped up in a bow like the last two minutes of a Halmi Hallmark movie.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching

This was a beautiful story about how one women found a new life after a divorce. Leslie was dealing with her ex husband and selling their home, her daughter out of the country and figuring out what she needed to do. So she decided to go on a road trip and with God's guidance she helped 3 people in different towns, but then she met Hank at a house her family use to rent in the summer.

[Christina Sinisi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Laurie Larsen's books.

I love the idea of God's hand leading the heroine from place to place and the people she met on the way. I also enjoyed reading about the Seaside Inn--I have reservations for April!

The only reason I didn't give it a 5 is that the heroine did something stupid at one point that really drew me out of the story. I mean, really.

But, overall, I really loved the love story and the location is one of my favorite places on the planet.

[Pam Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good lesson for us all!

When I first started the book I thought, hmmm.. this different. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to get into it. But boy did I ever! Believing in the power of prayer and reading how Leslie went to God in prayer was something I won't forget. It's a lesson for us all. Loved this book!

[Mary Stockwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good clean romance

I really enjoyed reading this good clean and entertaining romance. I especially liked Leslie's character. She was very tolerant with her cheating ex. More than I was. All of the adventures she had on the way to her vacation were interesting and entertaining.

[Rena Ackley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Newly divorced and an empty-nest, Leslie takes off on her first road-trip alone with no exact destination in mind. She asks God to help her be of service to those she meets along the way. Her adventure leads to several encounters and then a visit to her favorite vacation spot as a child. Leslie finds more than just fond memories and learns that love is often found when least expected.

[Delena constant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roadtrip

A truelly wonderful Book about Major Changes in Life as one gets more Mature, Moving Forward in very positive ways, Letting go and letting God lead. A inspire inspirational Read. Without Hesitation I give 5🌟 to this very well written interesting Love Story.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thinking she is now alone, and the daily to do list is gone, along with a husband, and daughter. Taking a road trip turned out to be so much more, not only for her, but with someone and new beginnings with. Delightful look of trying to start over, and finding the path to take.

[Patricia J West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Road trip to Redemption!I

A great read! Po-si-tive-ly delicious! Drama, tension, emotion-loaded, faith through prayers and romance! I really was feeling for Leslie.... Then she met Hank, the man! Excellent reading for almost anyone!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

This was a truly enjoyable read. I really didn't want to put it down. The characters are warm, funny and believable. You are drawn into their lives and into the landscape. Highly recommend.

[Lila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an intriguing writing. God was made real, working in everyday lives, sometimes making a huge difference in just a few hours with a stranger, now no longer a stranger. I loved the way it satisfied my soul.