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Jessie Stanton #1
On a Ring and A Prayer
Twelve years of marriage, 4,000 square feet of dream house, and a handsome husband. Jessie Stanton has it all… until one fateful afternoon when she notices her BMW bouncing by the window behind a tow truck. Her husband has gone, and he’s taken it all.
The whirling tornado that cuts down the life she’s built drops Jessie onto the sandy beach of Malibu with a thud, penniless and alone. When all she’s left with are the designer labels in her closet and the dreamy Neil Lane rock on her finger, Jessie tries to make ends meet by pawning her prized ring to fund a new business a small shop where her designer duds and shimmering accessories are temporarily leased out to Southern California women with champagne tastes but root beer realities. As Jessie tries to rebuild, she realizes she can’t move on, not without answers. Reluctantly, Jessie turns to beach bum/private investigator Danny Callahan for help. But is she staking her future success and happiness…on a ring and a prayer?
The whirling tornado that cuts down the life she’s built drops Jessie onto the sandy beach of Malibu with a thud, penniless and alone. When all she’s left with are the designer labels in her closet and the dreamy Neil Lane rock on her finger, Jessie tries to make ends meet by pawning her prized ring to fund a new business a small shop where her designer duds and shimmering accessories are temporarily leased out to Southern California women with champagne tastes but root beer realities. As Jessie tries to rebuild, she realizes she can’t move on, not without answers. Reluctantly, Jessie turns to beach bum/private investigator Danny Callahan for help. But is she staking her future success and happiness…on a ring and a prayer?
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2015
6 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Sandra D. Bricker
44 books265 followersSandra D. Bricker was an entertainment publicist in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, where she attended school to learn screenwriting and eventually taught the craft for several semesters. She became a best-selling, award-winning author of Live-Out-Loud Fiction for the inspirational market, authored books such as the Jessie Stanton novels, and was best known for her Emma Rae Creation series. Over the years, as an ovarian cancer survivor, she spent time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure. Sandra lived in Toledo, Ohio before her passing in 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 11, 2014
You won't just read Sandra D Bricker's new novel, On a Ring and a Prayer - you'll breathe it in and become part of it. It's a story of overcoming; a story of finding hope, and one you'll remember long after you turn the last page. Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation. It's a 5-star-must read!
February 14, 2015
What little girl from Slidell, Louisiana doesn't dream of having it all? The perfect husband, house, car, clothes and jewelry and lots of money to spend? Jessie Stanton had it all and in a blink of an eye, it was gone! Her car gets towed while having lunch with her BFF, her credit cards are declined, and when she tries to reach her husband, she finds that both his cell and work numbers have been disconnected. Shortly after arriving home, and discovering that her husband of 14 years has taken everything except for the clothes in her closet, a few groceries and a bed to sleep in, a realtor knocks on the door informing Jessie that her home has been sold, along with the big beautiful bed too!
Homeless and even hopeless at times, Jessie finds, with the help of Piper, her BFF, a surfer detective, and others, a way to start putting the pieces of her life back together. But just when we start having hope that Jessie's life is coming together and she's close to discovering her faith, and the light her Grampy says she has inside will shine through, we're left with the end of the book! Yep! A cliffhanger! I wasn't expecting that at all!
So, while I'm anxiously waiting for the release of book 2 in the Jessie Stanton series, I will say that "On a Ring and a Prayer" is definitely unlike any Sandra Bricker novel I've read to date! I absolutely loved it! I found that it was a subtle reminder that things are just things and are not what should matter most to us in this life. Happiness is not found nor should it be defined by the possessions we hold.
While this book is unlike Sandie's others, it is still filled with the humor that we've come to know and love. You can't help but laugh and cry, feel for and love all the characters. Call me sentimental, but I must admit I really enjoyed Grampy's narrative of Jessie. I found myself hearing often as I read, the voice of my own Grandfather, his prayers for me and wishing he were here!
I was given a copy of the galley version in exchange for my honest review. I highly enjoyed and recommend this one as well as Sandie's other books for others to read and enjoy.
Homeless and even hopeless at times, Jessie finds, with the help of Piper, her BFF, a surfer detective, and others, a way to start putting the pieces of her life back together. But just when we start having hope that Jessie's life is coming together and she's close to discovering her faith, and the light her Grampy says she has inside will shine through, we're left with the end of the book! Yep! A cliffhanger! I wasn't expecting that at all!
So, while I'm anxiously waiting for the release of book 2 in the Jessie Stanton series, I will say that "On a Ring and a Prayer" is definitely unlike any Sandra Bricker novel I've read to date! I absolutely loved it! I found that it was a subtle reminder that things are just things and are not what should matter most to us in this life. Happiness is not found nor should it be defined by the possessions we hold.
While this book is unlike Sandie's others, it is still filled with the humor that we've come to know and love. You can't help but laugh and cry, feel for and love all the characters. Call me sentimental, but I must admit I really enjoyed Grampy's narrative of Jessie. I found myself hearing often as I read, the voice of my own Grandfather, his prayers for me and wishing he were here!
I was given a copy of the galley version in exchange for my honest review. I highly enjoyed and recommend this one as well as Sandie's other books for others to read and enjoy.
May 12, 2025
Sandra Bricker's latest novel is a another wonderful read filled with great characters, lots of humor and a fun storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Jessie and her attempts to pick up her life after her husband unexpectedly disappears, along with her fancy car, mansion and all the money.
Jessie's a woman you can't help but root for. You want to see her come through all the hard stuff and find happiness. I loved the other characters. Danny, Riggs, Piper, Antonio, Amber and the rest are such fun characters and the ways they help Jessie find her way and her place is an extremely fun journey that I highly recommend! I can't wait for book two to see what happens next!
Jessie's a woman you can't help but root for. You want to see her come through all the hard stuff and find happiness. I loved the other characters. Danny, Riggs, Piper, Antonio, Amber and the rest are such fun characters and the ways they help Jessie find her way and her place is an extremely fun journey that I highly recommend! I can't wait for book two to see what happens next!
February 22, 2015
I liked this book. I didn't love it not like I usually love this author's books. It's also not LOL funny but different from her others. Be aware also this is women's fiction primarily about a woman rebuilding her life and not a romance. Hint of romance to come at the end. I loved Danny. What an awesome hero! I didn't care for the kiss while she was still married. I can't say more without a spoiler but for all intents she was married. I'm not a gray on moral issues at all but black n white. I also don't care for cliff hangers! This one has one!
March 20, 2015
On a Ring and A Prayer, A Jessie Stanton Novel - Book 1, Sandra D. Bricker
Genre: Christian, Literature/Fiction (Adult)
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Stupidly I missed the “Christian” tag attached to this novel. I’m open minded about religion – any religion, I’ve my own personal beliefs, like to explore other religions, but avoid reading any fiction labelled religious or Christian simply because I hate the preachy tone that comes through. That’s part of what put me off this read. My fault, my bad, I should have checked more carefully.
So poor Jessie, I really felt for her, and applauded her when she picked herself up and began to push forwards with her fledgling business. Danny is a lovely man, Piper a perfect best friend and Amber and Riggs rounded the group off nicely. A good potential story, with a great group of characters. Somehow though it all felt too perfect, the solutions all fell into place too slickly for me. I was so saddened for Jessie, but once she made her decisions everything just seemed so perfect, each thing leading on to someone or something that would be helpful to her.
The God part – the bit that puts me off. To begin, other than mention of Danny’s tattoo and Grampa’s thoughts, there’s isn’t much that’s overtly Christian. By halfway though somehow God and how He shapes so much in our lives was beginning to permeate the story, and that’s when it fell ( for me) from a novel that was fun, with characters who believed in God, to one where the story was second, and the main purpose almost seemed to be leading/preaching the reader into opening themselves to Christianity. As I said, I’m very personal over religion, and I just don’t want a book that preaches to me. That and the way everything fell so neatly into place just spoiled this one for me. Sorry – I can see there are some huge fans, and if I’d been more observant I’d have avoided it, but I wasn’t, I didn’t and I need to be honest about how the story worked for me.
NB: I couldn’t believe that Jessie went there, asked Danny about xxxx after reading online!!! She didn’t even do it in a tactful way – if there is one – it came across as rude, intrusive and Danny was incredibly gracious about it. Also the price – over £11 ! wow....
Stars: Two, just a bad choice on my part. a good book for the right reader, but I’m not it.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers
February 3, 2015
On A Ring & A Prayer: A Jessie Stanton Novel - Book 1 by Sandra D. Bricker
Christian Fiction
ISBN 978-1426711602
Abingdon Press
Jessie Stanton had it all. She had the mansion, husband and any martial possessions every girl dreams of. After fourteen years of marriage she witnesses her car being towed, her credit cards are declined and her husband and his belonging are gone. He has left her homeless and taken anything with value. I laughed with her and my heart broke for her but she is one resilient chic. She handles each and every bump in the road with grace and dignity. She finds hope when things look hopeless. The ending took me by surprise, so book 2 best not be far behind.
Sandra D. Bricker has done it again, with this 5 star book. She has a way of writing entertaining stories and interweaving faith throughout. She is one of my favorite authors. I highly recommend this book and any other she has written. If I learned anything from this book it is, possessions are just that things. What really matters is friendships and faith.
I want to give a high-five to the author Sandra D. Bricker and publisher Abingdon Press for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for the authors and publishers generosity.
Christian Fiction
ISBN 978-1426711602
Abingdon Press
Jessie Stanton had it all. She had the mansion, husband and any martial possessions every girl dreams of. After fourteen years of marriage she witnesses her car being towed, her credit cards are declined and her husband and his belonging are gone. He has left her homeless and taken anything with value. I laughed with her and my heart broke for her but she is one resilient chic. She handles each and every bump in the road with grace and dignity. She finds hope when things look hopeless. The ending took me by surprise, so book 2 best not be far behind.
Sandra D. Bricker has done it again, with this 5 star book. She has a way of writing entertaining stories and interweaving faith throughout. She is one of my favorite authors. I highly recommend this book and any other she has written. If I learned anything from this book it is, possessions are just that things. What really matters is friendships and faith.
I want to give a high-five to the author Sandra D. Bricker and publisher Abingdon Press for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for the authors and publishers generosity.
February 4, 2015
Another amazing book from Sandra Bricker. This series strays away from her other books. There is a lot of depth to the book and really gets you thinking about what matters in life. Is it the material things you have or what's inside of you that matters? The answers might seem easy but it's something Jessie struggles with, and I think it's something that a lot of people struggle with.
I loved the way the each chapter ended with Jessie's Grampy talking about her with little flashback scenes and even what he thought about what was currently going on. It was a nice way to get the back story to Jessie without having to spend chapters just focusing on it. It helps you understand where she has come from and why she is where she is today. It leaves you hoping that somehow things will come full circle and she can find her way back to her roots and the light that shines inside of her.
NOOO!!! Is want I almost screamed at the end of the book as I tried to turn the next page only to find out it was the last. The book ends with such a cliff hanger. It definitely leaves you wanting more and now waiting for the next book.
By the way, why is it that all good ideas happen in the bathroom?
I received a ARC copy of the book for my honest opinion.
I loved the way the each chapter ended with Jessie's Grampy talking about her with little flashback scenes and even what he thought about what was currently going on. It was a nice way to get the back story to Jessie without having to spend chapters just focusing on it. It helps you understand where she has come from and why she is where she is today. It leaves you hoping that somehow things will come full circle and she can find her way back to her roots and the light that shines inside of her.
NOOO!!! Is want I almost screamed at the end of the book as I tried to turn the next page only to find out it was the last. The book ends with such a cliff hanger. It definitely leaves you wanting more and now waiting for the next book.
By the way, why is it that all good ideas happen in the bathroom?
I received a ARC copy of the book for my honest opinion.
March 3, 2015
Another winner from Sandra Bricker!
On A Ring And A Prayer shows a different side to Sandra's writing. Christian romance readers will be challenged by the depth of this book including a main character who isn't a Christian (and doesn't suddenly become one for the sake of saving the romance in the last moment of the book).
As always, Sandra has done a fantastic job developing the characters. I was able to connect with and relate to the characters and I can't wait for what is to come for them in the next book! The characters were fresh and unique.
The book is chock-full of detailed descriptive that transforms the story and characters and brings them to life. This book will captivate and hold your attention, from start to finish.
*I received a copy of this book to read and review. This review is based on my honest opinion of this book.*
On a Ring and a PrayerSandra D. Bricker
On A Ring And A Prayer shows a different side to Sandra's writing. Christian romance readers will be challenged by the depth of this book including a main character who isn't a Christian (and doesn't suddenly become one for the sake of saving the romance in the last moment of the book).
As always, Sandra has done a fantastic job developing the characters. I was able to connect with and relate to the characters and I can't wait for what is to come for them in the next book! The characters were fresh and unique.
The book is chock-full of detailed descriptive that transforms the story and characters and brings them to life. This book will captivate and hold your attention, from start to finish.
*I received a copy of this book to read and review. This review is based on my honest opinion of this book.*
On a Ring and a PrayerSandra D. Bricker
April 22, 2015
Hott Review:
What I liked: I have no idea how Ms Bricker does it. She makes you feel every devastating blow to Jessie without making it sad. All I felt through the knocks Jessie endured was hopefulness.
Another thing I love is Jessie’s friend Piper. It is wonderful to see real friends portrayed when they’re so few and far between, especially if the SoCal rumors are true!
What I didn’t like: At times it frustrated me how easily Jessie got on with her life. After the initial devastation, I thought maybe she moved on a bit quickly, BUT I think her personality type and naiveté are at fault.
What I liked: I have no idea how Ms Bricker does it. She makes you feel every devastating blow to Jessie without making it sad. All I felt through the knocks Jessie endured was hopefulness.
Another thing I love is Jessie’s friend Piper. It is wonderful to see real friends portrayed when they’re so few and far between, especially if the SoCal rumors are true!
What I didn’t like: At times it frustrated me how easily Jessie got on with her life. After the initial devastation, I thought maybe she moved on a bit quickly, BUT I think her personality type and naiveté are at fault.
January 29, 2015
I positively could not put this book down. I laughed, cried and laughed some more. I loved every single character in this book with the exception of Jack off course. I am sure I will read this one many more times. Book 2 just can't come soon enough. I will be on pins and needles waiting to hear more of Jessie's story. Well done Sandra D. Bricker, you have captivated us yet again. I have yet to read one of your books that I didn't love to pieces. Thank you for giving us such great stories. I received an ARC of this book, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
February 2, 2015
This is a great read! I couldn't put it down. You will experience so many emotions as you following the lead character. If life has ever sucker punched you in the gut, been down in the depths of despair, feeling hopeless and lost, only to find yourself surrounded by friends who help you pull yourself out of the pit and find hope again, you will want to read this book. Just when you think you have it all figured out, and life can be good again, here comes another surprise. Sandra Bricker takes you on this journey of life and you can't wait to see what happens next.
March 24, 2016
Sandra Bricker has done it again. A wonderful, entertaining story and delightful characters. Jessie is such a resilient woman. Every time she gets knocked down it only makes her stronger. I like how at the end of each chapter, Ms. Bricker gives us a look at Jessie's childhood and an insight on how she became the woman she is. This is the first book in a series and I can't wait until the other two come out.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 12, 2020
Josie Stanton has it all, or so she thinks. A handsome husband, a great malibu home, and expensive car, a designer wardrobe, and a 3.5 carat diamond ring on her finger. Then while celebrating her birthday with her best friend Piper, they see her bmw being towed down the street. When they return home they discover her husband Jack has skipped town, taking all of his possessions with him and selling their home with the furniture included, leaving her only her clothes, jewelry and food. Piper knows of a private investigator through a friend with a cheating husband, and Jessie pawns her diamond ring to pay Danny and open a store where she leases her designer wardrobe out to people who want the label but don't have the check book for it. Jessie and Danny work together to find out what happened to Jack, and find out who Jessie Stanton really is.
The characters in this book were great. They weren't portrayed as stereotypical beach bums or socialites, but as actual people who have real personalities and not just the stereotype they could have been put under. There was one surprise I didn't see, and Ms. Bricker has a lighthearted style that makes any book of hers enjoyable
The characters in this book were great. They weren't portrayed as stereotypical beach bums or socialites, but as actual people who have real personalities and not just the stereotype they could have been put under. There was one surprise I didn't see, and Ms. Bricker has a lighthearted style that makes any book of hers enjoyable
October 16, 2020
A very original story line, which I am very thankful for. The story is cute, the characters well developed, and you feel like you are in the story with them. It left on a cliff-hanger which I have a love/hate relationship with, LOL. I am actually getting ready to start the next book. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves Christian romance with a bit of humor.
January 29, 2025
A story of putting the pieces of your life back together after someone’s mashed them. I loved the conversations about faith. A lot of faith-based love stories can be super cringey but this one seemed real and authentic to the types of conversations I’ve had with people. I’m looking forward to book two!
March 10, 2016
Intriguing start to a new series but beware, this book is very much the first of three so it's open-ended in many respects. And if you really don't like cliff-hangers do not read the teaser sample of book two, Be My Valentino included at the back of this book! To be fair, the author did warn her readers right before that excerpt, but I didn't listen so serves me right. :-) I'm not a fan of serial type series but as far as they go this one isn't as cliff-hangerish as some...as long as you don't read that tease from book two!
While a departure from Bricker's usual comedic style, she hasn't abandoned that light-hearted manner altogether. There's still humour mixed in with the drama but there's definitely something heart-tugging about Jessie's little girl lost persona. And no wonder, she's been blindsided by her husband's betrayal. I'll be candid -- I liked Jessie a whole lot more by the end of the read. I had her pegged as shallow and self-serving by the first few pages but what's really enthralling about her story is how she finds herself again as she strives to turn 'life lemons' into lemonade.
Danny is a big reason for her success. A scruffy surfer dude PI, he's also a Christian who lives his faith. His good works go a long way towards bringing some stability into Jessie's life. She's not always appreciative -- adapting to her sudden loss of lifestyle takes some getting used to and not always graciously.
This is by no means a Pollyanna type story though. Jessie is a little too self-depreciating for that. And she's prone to wallow. Luckily she has some amazing friends to help her navigate her new reality. And the author treats us to periodic glimpses into Jessie 's youth through the memories of her Louisiana grandpa. A pretty amazing technique to reveal her background and help explain how she has come to the point she is at in her life now.
The only thing I had an issue with in this novel is the burgeoning romance between Danny and Jessie. Not because I found Danny unlikeable -- far from it. BUT Jessie is married. Yes, she's been dumped in the most horrific way by her husband and she's begun living a single life but she isn't divorced. I found that storyline really surprising -- even shocking -- in a book published by a well known Christian publisher like Abingdon. The romance is just at the beginning stages by the end of On a Ring and a Prayer and things sort themselves out as the story continues but this one aspect still bothered me.
Having said that, I'm still a fan of this series and am committed enough to follow through with these characters to the (hopefully) happily ever after on the horizon by the end of book three, From Bags to Riches, which releases this month.
While a departure from Bricker's usual comedic style, she hasn't abandoned that light-hearted manner altogether. There's still humour mixed in with the drama but there's definitely something heart-tugging about Jessie's little girl lost persona. And no wonder, she's been blindsided by her husband's betrayal. I'll be candid -- I liked Jessie a whole lot more by the end of the read. I had her pegged as shallow and self-serving by the first few pages but what's really enthralling about her story is how she finds herself again as she strives to turn 'life lemons' into lemonade.
Danny is a big reason for her success. A scruffy surfer dude PI, he's also a Christian who lives his faith. His good works go a long way towards bringing some stability into Jessie's life. She's not always appreciative -- adapting to her sudden loss of lifestyle takes some getting used to and not always graciously.
This is by no means a Pollyanna type story though. Jessie is a little too self-depreciating for that. And she's prone to wallow. Luckily she has some amazing friends to help her navigate her new reality. And the author treats us to periodic glimpses into Jessie 's youth through the memories of her Louisiana grandpa. A pretty amazing technique to reveal her background and help explain how she has come to the point she is at in her life now.
The only thing I had an issue with in this novel is the burgeoning romance between Danny and Jessie. Not because I found Danny unlikeable -- far from it. BUT Jessie is married. Yes, she's been dumped in the most horrific way by her husband and she's begun living a single life but she isn't divorced. I found that storyline really surprising -- even shocking -- in a book published by a well known Christian publisher like Abingdon. The romance is just at the beginning stages by the end of On a Ring and a Prayer and things sort themselves out as the story continues but this one aspect still bothered me.
Having said that, I'm still a fan of this series and am committed enough to follow through with these characters to the (hopefully) happily ever after on the horizon by the end of book three, From Bags to Riches, which releases this month.
June 25, 2015
Have you ever heard the expression “diamonds are a girls best friend?” well in this book that might actually be true. Jessie Stanton has been married to her husband for more then twelve years and thought she had it all. Expensive jewelry, tons of credit cards, designer clothes, a spectacular home, and her own BMW to drive around in. What she did not know is her life was about to change without any notice.
Having lunch with her best friend Piper one day it looked like Jessie’s car is being towed away while they are enjoying lunch. They both thought it odd but realized there were lots of BMW’s in this town so just a similar car????
What Jessie first realizes there is a problem is when she goes to pay for lunch and her credit card is rejected? Shocked and confused her friend Piper pays the bill and they leave. Yes that was her car that was towed away and now her friend will drive her home.
When she arrives the house is almost completely empty and she is in shock? Were we robbed did something happen, where are all of her husbands clothes? She finds out that there home has been sold and that all of her husband’s clothes are gone along with all the special bottles of wine.
A realtor arrives and tells Jessie that her home has been sold and she has till the end of the month to stay in it. With no place to go, no money, no job her future looks very bleak. Her phone has been disconnected and when she tried calling her husband on his cell and at work they are also disconnected.
What is a girl to do? With not much going for her Piper introduces her to Danny Callahan to see if he can investigate what has happened. Problem is she has no money except a few dollars in her purse and with no bank account the only think of value she seems to have is the Neil Lane rock on her finger and a closet full of designer labels.
With the help and encouragement of Piper, Danny and his friend Riggs they all set out to help Jessie rebuild her life. The amazing thing is that it is the ring and her clothes that will allow this to happen.
It is a nice kind of story and it makes you feel good to know that friends really do care about others and offer to help her and encourage her in a new venture which will definitely change her life.
Having lunch with her best friend Piper one day it looked like Jessie’s car is being towed away while they are enjoying lunch. They both thought it odd but realized there were lots of BMW’s in this town so just a similar car????
What Jessie first realizes there is a problem is when she goes to pay for lunch and her credit card is rejected? Shocked and confused her friend Piper pays the bill and they leave. Yes that was her car that was towed away and now her friend will drive her home.
When she arrives the house is almost completely empty and she is in shock? Were we robbed did something happen, where are all of her husbands clothes? She finds out that there home has been sold and that all of her husband’s clothes are gone along with all the special bottles of wine.
A realtor arrives and tells Jessie that her home has been sold and she has till the end of the month to stay in it. With no place to go, no money, no job her future looks very bleak. Her phone has been disconnected and when she tried calling her husband on his cell and at work they are also disconnected.
What is a girl to do? With not much going for her Piper introduces her to Danny Callahan to see if he can investigate what has happened. Problem is she has no money except a few dollars in her purse and with no bank account the only think of value she seems to have is the Neil Lane rock on her finger and a closet full of designer labels.
With the help and encouragement of Piper, Danny and his friend Riggs they all set out to help Jessie rebuild her life. The amazing thing is that it is the ring and her clothes that will allow this to happen.
It is a nice kind of story and it makes you feel good to know that friends really do care about others and offer to help her and encourage her in a new venture which will definitely change her life.
February 12, 2015
New starts are never easy; there are lots of bumps in the road that get you to new starts and new chapters. Sometimes you have to just pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Not everyone can relate with the rich and famous but everyone can relate to being betrayed by someone you love and care for so deeply. Jessie is no different she is strong and seems to have a lot going for her. When her life crashes around her she is forced to come face to face with choice that can’t be easy for most of us. The plot and the storyline literally grab you and draw you from one page to the next and keep you there from the beginning of the book till the very end. With each character you feel like you could be friends or know someone in like that. I have to say hands down I will be telling everyone I know about this book, can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out. This book did not disappoint and you cannot go wrong with buy this book.
My Thoughts on each of the main characters in the book:
Daniel- free-spirited fun loving surfer guy with a heart to help others and a love for God
Amber-a go-getting risk taker with a lot of love and spirit you just want to be around her
Stephanie- (I want to be her when I grow up) she seems like a no non sense person with a lot of value in life and friends
Piper- a loyal friend, sweet, loving and full of spirit, a true friend
Jessie- head strong lets nothing in life stop her, has a big heart but a broken spirit.
Riggs- Friend to everyone a big hearted guy with a lot of spirit, not very vocal about things and life
Frank- A fun loving friend who thinks he should be loved and honored by everyone who comes in contact with him and everyone needs to know he is that and will not be ignored.
Grampy- The most loving person with a big heart of gold who wants the best for all in his life but knows that life is not always sunshine and roses.
My Thoughts on each of the main characters in the book:
Daniel- free-spirited fun loving surfer guy with a heart to help others and a love for God
Amber-a go-getting risk taker with a lot of love and spirit you just want to be around her
Stephanie- (I want to be her when I grow up) she seems like a no non sense person with a lot of value in life and friends
Piper- a loyal friend, sweet, loving and full of spirit, a true friend
Jessie- head strong lets nothing in life stop her, has a big heart but a broken spirit.
Riggs- Friend to everyone a big hearted guy with a lot of spirit, not very vocal about things and life
Frank- A fun loving friend who thinks he should be loved and honored by everyone who comes in contact with him and everyone needs to know he is that and will not be ignored.
Grampy- The most loving person with a big heart of gold who wants the best for all in his life but knows that life is not always sunshine and roses.
February 12, 2015
New starts are never easy; there are lots of bumps in the road that get you to new starts and new chapters. Sometimes you have to just pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Not everyone can relate with the rich and famous but everyone can relate to being betrayed by someone you love and care for so deeply. Jessie is no different she is strong and seems to have a lot going for her. When her life crashes around her she is forced to come face to face with choice that can’t be easy for most of us. The plot and the storyline literally grab you and draw you from one page to the next and keep you there from the beginning of the book till the very end. With each character you feel like you could be friends or know someone in like that. I have to say hands down I will be telling everyone I know about this book, can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out. This book did not disappoint and you cannot go wrong with buy this book.
My Thoughts on each of the main characters in the book:
Daniel- free-spirited fun loving surfer guy with a heart to help others and a love for God
Amber-a go-getting risk taker with a lot of love and spirit you just want to be around her
Stephanie- (I want to be her when I grow up) she seems like a no non sense person with a lot of value in life and friends
Piper- a loyal friend, sweet, loving and full of spirit, a true friend
Jessie- head strong lets nothing in life stop her, has a big heart but a broken spirit.
Riggs- Friend to everyone a big hearted guy with a lot of spirit, not very vocal about things and life
Frank- A fun loving friend who thinks he should be loved and honored by everyone who comes in contact with him and everyone needs to know he is that and will not be ignored.
Grampy- The most loving person with a big heart of gold who wants the best for all in his life but knows that life is not always sunshine and roses.
My Thoughts on each of the main characters in the book:
Daniel- free-spirited fun loving surfer guy with a heart to help others and a love for God
Amber-a go-getting risk taker with a lot of love and spirit you just want to be around her
Stephanie- (I want to be her when I grow up) she seems like a no non sense person with a lot of value in life and friends
Piper- a loyal friend, sweet, loving and full of spirit, a true friend
Jessie- head strong lets nothing in life stop her, has a big heart but a broken spirit.
Riggs- Friend to everyone a big hearted guy with a lot of spirit, not very vocal about things and life
Frank- A fun loving friend who thinks he should be loved and honored by everyone who comes in contact with him and everyone needs to know he is that and will not be ignored.
Grampy- The most loving person with a big heart of gold who wants the best for all in his life but knows that life is not always sunshine and roses.
September 19, 2015
On a Ring and a Prayer – Sandra Bricker (4.5-5 Stars)
Ms. Bricker’s latest novel, On a Ring and a Prayer, kicks off her new Jessie Stanton series. Jessie Stanton arrives home to discover that her husband has vanished with just about everything, except the items in her closet and the diamond ring on her hand. With the help of a surf-guy private investigator, Danny, and her best friend, Piper, Jessie manages to fit her mansion-sized life into a shoebox apartment. To support herself, Jessie opens a store that makes her high-fashion closet open to girls on a budget. When the truth about her husband becomes apparent, Jessie and her newfound, fashionista friends discover that this new direction in their lives may be the God-given answer to a lifetime of prayer.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed On a Ring and a Prayer! The novel marks a return to the style of Ms. Bricker’s Emma Rae Creations series, although set in sunny California and the wild world of fashion. Likewise, the Jessie Stanton series plays on Ms. Bricker’s strengths in developing a great story around a group of friends and colleagues, who continue to grow and learn about themselves and their respective careers throughout multiple novels. Although I’m not typically a fan of stories that involve divorced characters, I felt that Ms. Bricker did an amazing job of handling the novel’s conflict and turning it into a great piece of inspirational fiction.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Abingdon Press for the complimentary copy of On a Ring and a Prayer!
Thanks!
Brittany at the Books and Biscuits Blog
PS. To see the full review, please visit http://booksandbiscuits.com/blog/2015.... Thanks!
Ms. Bricker’s latest novel, On a Ring and a Prayer, kicks off her new Jessie Stanton series. Jessie Stanton arrives home to discover that her husband has vanished with just about everything, except the items in her closet and the diamond ring on her hand. With the help of a surf-guy private investigator, Danny, and her best friend, Piper, Jessie manages to fit her mansion-sized life into a shoebox apartment. To support herself, Jessie opens a store that makes her high-fashion closet open to girls on a budget. When the truth about her husband becomes apparent, Jessie and her newfound, fashionista friends discover that this new direction in their lives may be the God-given answer to a lifetime of prayer.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed On a Ring and a Prayer! The novel marks a return to the style of Ms. Bricker’s Emma Rae Creations series, although set in sunny California and the wild world of fashion. Likewise, the Jessie Stanton series plays on Ms. Bricker’s strengths in developing a great story around a group of friends and colleagues, who continue to grow and learn about themselves and their respective careers throughout multiple novels. Although I’m not typically a fan of stories that involve divorced characters, I felt that Ms. Bricker did an amazing job of handling the novel’s conflict and turning it into a great piece of inspirational fiction.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Abingdon Press for the complimentary copy of On a Ring and a Prayer!
Thanks!
Brittany at the Books and Biscuits Blog
PS. To see the full review, please visit http://booksandbiscuits.com/blog/2015.... Thanks!
February 25, 2016
ARC/Christian Fiction: This is book one of a trilogy. I was hoping it would be funnier with witty banter and laugh out loud moments. The back of the book gives that impression, but it was kind of blah. It’s a riches to rags to pull yourself up by your bootstraps kind of book.
Our heroine, Jessie who has no skills except shopping, loses everything and instead of getting a 9 to 5 job, starts a business with her wedding and engagement rings. I don’t want to give away too much of the book, but along the way she meets people who are willing to help her. She meets Danny, a fun-loving Christian who is a private eye. I will say that after reading too many Sue Grafton novels, that her is not a very good private eye. Not only does he not make her sign a contract for services, he accepts $1500 (approximately three day work in the real world) and he works for weeks. It takes him weeks just to get started and then all his updates to his client are verbal. He shows her no written proof that he’s worked for the money. Even though the author didn’t do any research or watch an episode of the Rockford Files, I forgave most of those inconsistencies and time continuities.
It’s clear by the end of the book that there will have to be a book two because Jessie still is wandering around, faith-wise. Daniel back story still isn’t explained and will the business succeed and will Jessie want to continue with the business.
I do recommend this book and I did loan it to a co-worker. I did like the characters and the plot did move along most of the time. I went ahead and read the Book 2 teaser in the back of the book and I can’t wait to see how that cliffhanger goes. It was a cute book to read after all the murder and mayhem I've been reading.
Our heroine, Jessie who has no skills except shopping, loses everything and instead of getting a 9 to 5 job, starts a business with her wedding and engagement rings. I don’t want to give away too much of the book, but along the way she meets people who are willing to help her. She meets Danny, a fun-loving Christian who is a private eye. I will say that after reading too many Sue Grafton novels, that her is not a very good private eye. Not only does he not make her sign a contract for services, he accepts $1500 (approximately three day work in the real world) and he works for weeks. It takes him weeks just to get started and then all his updates to his client are verbal. He shows her no written proof that he’s worked for the money. Even though the author didn’t do any research or watch an episode of the Rockford Files, I forgave most of those inconsistencies and time continuities.
It’s clear by the end of the book that there will have to be a book two because Jessie still is wandering around, faith-wise. Daniel back story still isn’t explained and will the business succeed and will Jessie want to continue with the business.
I do recommend this book and I did loan it to a co-worker. I did like the characters and the plot did move along most of the time. I went ahead and read the Book 2 teaser in the back of the book and I can’t wait to see how that cliffhanger goes. It was a cute book to read after all the murder and mayhem I've been reading.
January 9, 2016
Twelve years of marriage, 4,000 square feet of dream house, and a handsome husband. Jessie Stanton has it all... until one fateful afternoon when she notices her BMW bouncing by the window behind a tow truck. Her husband has gone, and he's taken it all. The whirling tornado that cuts down the life she's built drops Jessie onto the sandy beach of Malibu with a thud, penniless and alone. When all she's left with are the designer labels in her closet and the dreamy Neil Lane rock on her finger, Jessie tries to make ends meet by pawning her prized ring to fund a new business venture: a small shop where her designer duds and shimmering accessories are temporarily leased out to Southern California women with champagne tastes but root beer realities. As Jessie tries to rebuild, she realizes she can't move on, not without answers. Reluctantly, Jessie turns to beach bum/private investigator Danny Callahan for help. But is she staking her future success and happiness...on a ring and a prayer?
--My thoughts. I have never read a book by Brickler, so I was in for a treat.. I couldn't believe how it happened to Jessie. All in one swoop everything was gone. But she didn't let it get her down! She didn't wallow in her misery. I adored Jessie! I don't think I would have known what to do but she didn't let the exhusband knock her down. I can't wait for the next part... I love the faith part of this book. Highly recommend!
--My thoughts. I have never read a book by Brickler, so I was in for a treat.. I couldn't believe how it happened to Jessie. All in one swoop everything was gone. But she didn't let it get her down! She didn't wallow in her misery. I adored Jessie! I don't think I would have known what to do but she didn't let the exhusband knock her down. I can't wait for the next part... I love the faith part of this book. Highly recommend!
June 19, 2015
I am never disappointed when I read one of Sandra's books. This one stood out especially because it deals with a woman betrayed and how she struggles to overcome it.
Jessie had it all . She was married to a successful husband who showered her with everything her heart desired. She could purchase anything she wanted and wore the most expensive and latest fashions. Her days were filled with shopping, having lunch with friends and enjoying the good life.
One day , her husband leaves with no warning. Jessie finds herself penniless, alone and wondering what to do next. The journey she takes is one you will never forget. atbthe end of every chapter is a memory of words spoken from her Grampy. These words encourage her along her journey. I loved this part of the book because it reminds us of someone in our life that spoke to us when we felt helpless . Sandra's book make you laughing some parts of the story and shows the struggle of losing everything and how to bounce back stronger than you were.
Sandra writes with such depth for her characters and this book will not disappoint. A highly recommended book that will take you from anger, despair , finding trust and a little romance mixed in a book that gives you hope and encouragement for all who are or have struggled. This book is one not to be missed!
| May 16, 2015 |
February 1, 2015
Jessie Stanton is having a bad day…..a REALLY bad day!! While at lunch with her BFF, she glances out of the window of the restaurant to see her vehicle going down the street-----on the back of a tow truck! Her credit card is declined. She calls her husband only to find that his cell & office phones have been shut off. She gets home to find his clothes have been cleared out of the house, as is the bank account. Finally, the realtor knocks on the door of their home and informs her that their beach front home has been sold. She finds herself broke and homeless all in the matter of hours. How will she move forward when she is paralyzed with fear, uncertainty, and despair?
With this new series, Sandra Bricker moves slightly away from her light hearted style to a more thought provoking style. Never fear! She does inject some of her trademark humor and as usual, her characters are endearing. We can all relate to going through trying seasons in our lives which make us want to champion for Jessie as she steps out and starts to rebuild her life and discover who Jessie really is. The cliff hanger ending has me on pins and needles waiting for the next book in the series.
I have received a copy of this book to read & review, however, the review is my honest opinion of this book.
With this new series, Sandra Bricker moves slightly away from her light hearted style to a more thought provoking style. Never fear! She does inject some of her trademark humor and as usual, her characters are endearing. We can all relate to going through trying seasons in our lives which make us want to champion for Jessie as she steps out and starts to rebuild her life and discover who Jessie really is. The cliff hanger ending has me on pins and needles waiting for the next book in the series.
I have received a copy of this book to read & review, however, the review is my honest opinion of this book.
February 14, 2015
On A Ring And A Prayer was an amazing book that is quite a jump from Sandra Bricker's other novels. I have loved all her books, but this one is what I call a thinker. It makes you look at life's ups and downs, Christianity, and relationships, in a real and deeper way. I was hooked from the beginning to the end, and left wanting more, more, more! I cannot wait for the next book in this series to get here!
Grampy and his bits of wisdom, humor, and prayer life helped to make the story flow from past to present and he was my favorite character in the book. I loved the fact that all of the trials and troubles that rained down on Jessie did not magically get fixed, that she did not just become a Christian in an instant and get the romantic happily ever after like in so many other Christian based and romance fiction. This book dove deep into the emotional abyss that can overpower all of us, and uses friendships (both old and new) along with humor to bring insights into Jessie's life and her future in ways she never saw before.
I couldn't put the book down, and finished it in one day, and I am anxiously awaiting book two. I received a copy of this book for my review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
Grampy and his bits of wisdom, humor, and prayer life helped to make the story flow from past to present and he was my favorite character in the book. I loved the fact that all of the trials and troubles that rained down on Jessie did not magically get fixed, that she did not just become a Christian in an instant and get the romantic happily ever after like in so many other Christian based and romance fiction. This book dove deep into the emotional abyss that can overpower all of us, and uses friendships (both old and new) along with humor to bring insights into Jessie's life and her future in ways she never saw before.
I couldn't put the book down, and finished it in one day, and I am anxiously awaiting book two. I received a copy of this book for my review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
April 11, 2015
This book is an inspirational tale of a woman who literally found out in a single day that her husband picked up and left her and in doing so canceled the lease on her car (which she found out about while she was having lunch with a friend and they saw her car being towed), her credit cards canceled and her house sold literally right out from under her, including her furniture. He disconnected all his phone numbers and all she has left is the rings on her fingers. She is surrounded by her best friend and then makes new really good friends who God clearly has put in her path. She has to pick herself up and make it and with the help and advice of those surrounding her and their prayers on her behalf.
I enjoyed the book, some parts more than others. I liked Grammpy and his discussions, I liked Danny's dog, Frank, and I like the resilient spirit of Jessie. Piper is a perfect best friend and how can you not love her? That all being said, I found it hard to stay focused on the book. It looks like its going to be a series so I understand the anticlimactic finish but I had hoped there would be more closure there for her to move on.
I will read book two in lulls between my other series to see what happens with Danny and Jessie.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I enjoyed the book, some parts more than others. I liked Grammpy and his discussions, I liked Danny's dog, Frank, and I like the resilient spirit of Jessie. Piper is a perfect best friend and how can you not love her? That all being said, I found it hard to stay focused on the book. It looks like its going to be a series so I understand the anticlimactic finish but I had hoped there would be more closure there for her to move on.
I will read book two in lulls between my other series to see what happens with Danny and Jessie.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
December 15, 2017
A beauty with a missing husband. A surfer slash detective enters the picture.
A silly Hollywood movie? You can’t be more wrong.
This one has both unexpected depth and unexpected lighterheartedness - blending together like a milk and a coconut oil in my newest homemade moisturizer :) And it works as lovely as my cream and I have enjoyed every page.
Jessie is 37 - year-old society lady with a flair for fashion and seemingly having it all - until hes husband disappears with all of their money (even the ones for their house, Jessie’s car and phone) and she is left hanging out dry. And her world breaks - but Jessie has much more inner light than one would suppose when seeing her in her stillettos.
And she is gifted with friends, both male and female, who show her the way and are there for her when she starts finding the way back to the things more important that the blings. (But she still maintains the fashion flair :)).
And you truly can trust the authoress when you are afraid about the romance. Nothing sinful here.
An unique book. I think that only emotionally and wise author can use such easy-going way when writing about the hard stuff, and only the writer with the true joy inside can be so unabashedly vulnerable and fun.
I can only recommend this.
A silly Hollywood movie? You can’t be more wrong.
This one has both unexpected depth and unexpected lighterheartedness - blending together like a milk and a coconut oil in my newest homemade moisturizer :) And it works as lovely as my cream and I have enjoyed every page.
Jessie is 37 - year-old society lady with a flair for fashion and seemingly having it all - until hes husband disappears with all of their money (even the ones for their house, Jessie’s car and phone) and she is left hanging out dry. And her world breaks - but Jessie has much more inner light than one would suppose when seeing her in her stillettos.
And she is gifted with friends, both male and female, who show her the way and are there for her when she starts finding the way back to the things more important that the blings. (But she still maintains the fashion flair :)).
And you truly can trust the authoress when you are afraid about the romance. Nothing sinful here.
An unique book. I think that only emotionally and wise author can use such easy-going way when writing about the hard stuff, and only the writer with the true joy inside can be so unabashedly vulnerable and fun.
I can only recommend this.
November 27, 2015
I adored Bricker's Always the Baker series, and so I jumped in wholeheartedly to this new series. The first book is enjoyable, but maybe not quite impressive as I had hoped.
Jessie comes home one day to find her life closed up - no furniture, no car, no husband. She cries on best friend Piper's shoulder, then hires Danny to investigate. She gets back on her feet stronger than ever... And a new Jessie is in the making.
I loved Danny. He lives his faith but doesn't preach it, has a cool best friend to surf with, and is adamant about doing the decent thing when he can.
Jessie is a great character for a series because she has flaws that make for good comic relief. And what fun to see her untapped talent at solving mysteries! I love the partner-in-crime aspect and can't wait to read more.
Bricker is a pro at setting the scene for not only many more mysteries to come, but for a love story, new friendships, and professional success.
http://randombookmuses.com/2015/03/24...
NetGalley provided an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jessie comes home one day to find her life closed up - no furniture, no car, no husband. She cries on best friend Piper's shoulder, then hires Danny to investigate. She gets back on her feet stronger than ever... And a new Jessie is in the making.
I loved Danny. He lives his faith but doesn't preach it, has a cool best friend to surf with, and is adamant about doing the decent thing when he can.
Jessie is a great character for a series because she has flaws that make for good comic relief. And what fun to see her untapped talent at solving mysteries! I love the partner-in-crime aspect and can't wait to read more.
Bricker is a pro at setting the scene for not only many more mysteries to come, but for a love story, new friendships, and professional success.
http://randombookmuses.com/2015/03/24...
NetGalley provided an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2015
Jessie Stanton's cushy Malibu life crashes down around her and her first clue was the sight of a tow truck repossessing her BMW. Her second clue was the refusal of her credit card. Unable to reach her husband, she returns to her mansion to find a smiling realtor telling her how delighted he was with the price they got when the house sold. She walks in to find the house has been stripped clean of everything valuable and the only things left in the house are her clothes and what was sold with it.
On a Ring and a Prayer by Sandra Bricked is by turns hilariously funny, sweetly touching and gently spiritual. I loved the "asides" from Jessie's Grampy, who raised her following the death of her mother and the abandonment by her father. Grampy prays without ceasing for his little Jessie, and listens as she sobs out her grief and loss. All he can do is offer to keep praying which turns out to be exactly what she needs.
Other characters include Danny Callahan, the surfing PI, and Andrew Riggs, the"homeless" real estate magnate who lives in his VW bus in Danny's driveway.
Sound fun? I loved reading this story and can't wait for Be My Valentino, Book 2 in the Jessie Stanton series!
On a Ring and a Prayer by Sandra Bricked is by turns hilariously funny, sweetly touching and gently spiritual. I loved the "asides" from Jessie's Grampy, who raised her following the death of her mother and the abandonment by her father. Grampy prays without ceasing for his little Jessie, and listens as she sobs out her grief and loss. All he can do is offer to keep praying which turns out to be exactly what she needs.
Other characters include Danny Callahan, the surfing PI, and Andrew Riggs, the"homeless" real estate magnate who lives in his VW bus in Danny's driveway.
Sound fun? I loved reading this story and can't wait for Be My Valentino, Book 2 in the Jessie Stanton series!
February 9, 2015
I am so happy that I was privileged to receive an advance copy of Sandie Bricker’s newest book, “On A Ring and a Prayer”. This story is the first of three in the Jessie Stanton Novel series. Jessie is what every woman hopes to be when life throws curves her way; resilient, creative, and much stronger then she thinks she is. Life lessons are learned when she realizes she’s not alone, that there are friends and strangers who support and help her handle the difficult times. My emotions mirrored Jessie’s while reading her story; disbelief, anger, relief, humor, etc. as she works through the curves thrown at her. I love how Sandie Bricker uses Jessie’s grandfathers “memories” to help the reader understand Jessie’s character; that although she grew up with a God loving grandfather she has not made the decision to follow God for herself yet. I truly enjoyed reading Jessie’s story and anxiously await the next novel in this series.
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