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Resort to Love #4
Finding Love in Eureka, California
Raised in a family of six adopted siblings, Genevieve Wilson fights to keep her dysfunctional brothers and sisters together, but everyone still seems to leave. If she’s not good enough to prevent her birth parents from giving her up or her siblings from abandoning her, then there’s no way she would ever be enough to have a lasting relationship with the cute pilot from work…which is exactly what makes him a safe subject for her daydreams.
Matt Lake is dating the perfect woman and working a great job. Life is easy until he starts to enjoy hanging out with the airline employees more than with his girlfriend—one sweet female employee in particular. He tells himself he’s only intrigued by Gen’s quirkiness, but nobody else makes him smile the way she does.
Can Matt give up the flawless life he’d planned in exchange for the messiness of love? And if so, will Gen risk her heart on reality when it’s never paid off in the past?
Matt Lake is dating the perfect woman and working a great job. Life is easy until he starts to enjoy hanging out with the airline employees more than with his girlfriend—one sweet female employee in particular. He tells himself he’s only intrigued by Gen’s quirkiness, but nobody else makes him smile the way she does.
Can Matt give up the flawless life he’d planned in exchange for the messiness of love? And if so, will Gen risk her heart on reality when it’s never paid off in the past?
258 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2018
37 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Angela Ruth Strong
43 books716 followersAngela Ruth Strong sold her first Christian romance novel in 2009. Her books have since earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been nominated for a Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon best-sellers. Her book Finding Love in Big Sky filmed as a movie in Montana and aired on UPtv in 2022. To help aspiring authors, she started IDAhope Writers where she lives in Idaho, and she teaches as an expert online at My Book Therapy.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 1, 2018
You know that feeling you get after you have been sobbing? That ache in your chest, the deep breaths that kind of catch in your throat and the sense of cleansing? Though Finding Love in Eureka California is not a depressing book and it has a great ending, reading it is such an emotional journey that, having just finished it, I feel like I am coming out of a good, healing cry.
I am sure that the fact I just read Angela Ruth Strong's touching testimony before reading this story influenced my reaction to the book. Her personal experience appears to have come to play in this book, not only with her "other" work, but also her past hurts. And the result is a very sensitive handling of subjects that could be painful if the author is not careful.
There are so very many things covered in this beautiful story. Adoption, adultery, fear, drug use by a family member. The author took a broken woman, Gen, who was afraid to allow herself to hope for a good future for herself because of a Bible verse she had read about "the sins of the fathers" being visited on the children to the fourth generation. Seeing the lives of her adopted siblings and the things they struggled with had her convinced of that, and blinded her to the grace and mercy available to us through the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. The journey she traveled to learn some critical lessons about God and herself were masterfully told.
Matt had to learn that even if he wants to always be the hero, only Jesus can be our Savior. His best intentions about not hurting anyone only result in hurting those he is trying to help.
Matt's co-pilot was the one flirting with the fire of attraction to a woman not his wife, but the author made it clear that adultery is not just about the physical act, but the thoughts of the heart.
Some more things I really appreciated about this book include the insight into the inner workings of a small airport which came from the author's real-life experience, a new view of yoga (I had no idea there were so many varieties of it!), and the photography sessions that were included.
Now that I have gotten to know the author through this book, her bio and her testimony, I just want to hop on a plane to go visit her and get to know her even more!
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I am grateful to Angela Ruth Strong for giving me a copy of this book. The fact I received this book for free does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I am sure that the fact I just read Angela Ruth Strong's touching testimony before reading this story influenced my reaction to the book. Her personal experience appears to have come to play in this book, not only with her "other" work, but also her past hurts. And the result is a very sensitive handling of subjects that could be painful if the author is not careful.
There are so very many things covered in this beautiful story. Adoption, adultery, fear, drug use by a family member. The author took a broken woman, Gen, who was afraid to allow herself to hope for a good future for herself because of a Bible verse she had read about "the sins of the fathers" being visited on the children to the fourth generation. Seeing the lives of her adopted siblings and the things they struggled with had her convinced of that, and blinded her to the grace and mercy available to us through the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. The journey she traveled to learn some critical lessons about God and herself were masterfully told.
Matt had to learn that even if he wants to always be the hero, only Jesus can be our Savior. His best intentions about not hurting anyone only result in hurting those he is trying to help.
Matt's co-pilot was the one flirting with the fire of attraction to a woman not his wife, but the author made it clear that adultery is not just about the physical act, but the thoughts of the heart.
Some more things I really appreciated about this book include the insight into the inner workings of a small airport which came from the author's real-life experience, a new view of yoga (I had no idea there were so many varieties of it!), and the photography sessions that were included.
Now that I have gotten to know the author through this book, her bio and her testimony, I just want to hop on a plane to go visit her and get to know her even more!
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I am grateful to Angela Ruth Strong for giving me a copy of this book. The fact I received this book for free does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 3, 2024
I have to admit that it was kinda weird to read Matt and Gen's story after Sam's story, which is set last in the 'Lake Brothers' timeline, but this order was how it was listed in the series. Once I read the author's note at the back, it was more clear to me why she wrote the books 'out of order', so to speak. I think that in future readings of this series, I will likely read this one (and Dave's story in 'Finding Love on the Oregon Coast' before 'Finding Love in Sun Valley'.
On to the story itself! I really enjoyed this one. I liked both Gen and Matt, even though my heart broke for each of them at their misunderstanding of Christ's grace. I liked their friendship, but was rightfully concerned when it seemed to be going to a place of 'more', when Matt was still dating someone else. I appreciated the reminders to 'guard your heart' with your actions.
I did figure out one of the big twists before it happened, but it was interesting to see the back story with that situation, and figure out what it would mean to the story overall.
4.5 stars . . . my favourite in the series.
On to the story itself! I really enjoyed this one. I liked both Gen and Matt, even though my heart broke for each of them at their misunderstanding of Christ's grace. I liked their friendship, but was rightfully concerned when it seemed to be going to a place of 'more', when Matt was still dating someone else. I appreciated the reminders to 'guard your heart' with your actions.
I did figure out one of the big twists before it happened, but it was interesting to see the back story with that situation, and figure out what it would mean to the story overall.
4.5 stars . . . my favourite in the series.
December 17, 2017
This was a super fun read on many levels. First, I'm from Eureka, and the author did a great job sprinkling in facts and descriptions. She took a number of creative licenses with distance and exact locals, but she set the mood really well.
I have to admit, I don't like fluffy reads, so I avoid typical romance novels where one sentence would easily bridge the gap between the foolish characters.
This is not one of those.
Angela Ruth Strong has created a sweet romance, with character depth and real struggles. I loved watching Matt and Gen face their trials and the growth in their characters over time. It's not a heavy read, but it has substance. If you love romance, then grab this book.
I have to admit, I don't like fluffy reads, so I avoid typical romance novels where one sentence would easily bridge the gap between the foolish characters.
This is not one of those.
Angela Ruth Strong has created a sweet romance, with character depth and real struggles. I loved watching Matt and Gen face their trials and the growth in their characters over time. It's not a heavy read, but it has substance. If you love romance, then grab this book.
March 4, 2018
I am by no means new to Angela Strong's books, but I was as delighted with this novel as I was with her very first book that I read! I have missed her work and was so pleased to get back to her unique writing style and the way she quickly and wholly captures the reader. From start to finish I was hooked on this novel of hurt, laughter, anger and understanding. This book is filled with all of that and so much more.
This 5 star book has beautiful characters. I loved Gen's timidness when it came to opening her heart to love. Matt's character both infuriated me and wrapped me up to love him. He's perfectly flawed for this novel and and though at times I wanted to whack him upside the head, his feelings for Gen and acceptace of change overcame it all and I fell hard for him. The messages that are woven into the story for these beautiful characters are tremendously done, and I loved finding love in this sweet town with these perfectly chiseled characters. Bravo, Angela! You've once again made given me all the feels of a perfectly written novel!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
This 5 star book has beautiful characters. I loved Gen's timidness when it came to opening her heart to love. Matt's character both infuriated me and wrapped me up to love him. He's perfectly flawed for this novel and and though at times I wanted to whack him upside the head, his feelings for Gen and acceptace of change overcame it all and I fell hard for him. The messages that are woven into the story for these beautiful characters are tremendously done, and I loved finding love in this sweet town with these perfectly chiseled characters. Bravo, Angela! You've once again made given me all the feels of a perfectly written novel!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
January 5, 2018
“Finding Love in Eureka, California” was a thoroughly enjoyable novel that had both light-hearted and thoughtful moments. I loved the fact that both primary characters had flaws which made them all the more life-like and easy to identify with.
Heroine Genevieve is a feisty young woman with many good character traits but because of her background she is afraid to love. Her crush on pilot Matt Lake seems safe enough – until she gets to know him better. Matt is practically engaged to a beautiful woman who is near perfect but tries to ignore the fact that he really doesn’t enjoy her family’s lifestyle that is so important to her. When he finds Genevieve constantly on his mind instead, Matt must make some difficult choices about what is most important to him.
The story-line is wonderful with a vast array of interesting characters, some of whom have disabilities that are not usually featured in the books I often read. This author is not afraid to push the envelope by featuring people who are frequently overlooked and helping her readers to actually see past outward appearance to the inner person. I particularly liked Rosie’s character and the wisdom she had developed as a result of her own struggles.
At times poignant but often laugh-out-loud funny, “Finding Love in Eureka, California” was a joy to read and filled with surprises. I love the way Strong manages to weave so many different elements together to create an entertaining novel that leaves her readers with plenty of food for thought. If you have not read anything by Angela Ruth Strong, I heartily encourage you to do so.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Heroine Genevieve is a feisty young woman with many good character traits but because of her background she is afraid to love. Her crush on pilot Matt Lake seems safe enough – until she gets to know him better. Matt is practically engaged to a beautiful woman who is near perfect but tries to ignore the fact that he really doesn’t enjoy her family’s lifestyle that is so important to her. When he finds Genevieve constantly on his mind instead, Matt must make some difficult choices about what is most important to him.
The story-line is wonderful with a vast array of interesting characters, some of whom have disabilities that are not usually featured in the books I often read. This author is not afraid to push the envelope by featuring people who are frequently overlooked and helping her readers to actually see past outward appearance to the inner person. I particularly liked Rosie’s character and the wisdom she had developed as a result of her own struggles.
At times poignant but often laugh-out-loud funny, “Finding Love in Eureka, California” was a joy to read and filled with surprises. I love the way Strong manages to weave so many different elements together to create an entertaining novel that leaves her readers with plenty of food for thought. If you have not read anything by Angela Ruth Strong, I heartily encourage you to do so.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
November 14, 2017
We are all faced with decisions every day. For most of us, we make some good choices and some bad ones. The characters in this story are faced with numerous choices. Just like us, they make both good and bad decisions. However, the story goes deeper than simply looking at the factors involved, the decisions made, and the results of the decisions. The characters learn to look below the surface to evaluate why they have been making the specific choices. The real message for me is that the failure to study and understand why we make the choices we do often leads to choosing a certain direction or action that is not wrong or bad, but it may not be the best thing for us. Gen and her five siblings were all adopted. She and Rosie were at a stage in life where they usually made good choices while three of her siblings were still making bad choices. Did Gen make the best choices or simply take the easy route to avoid conflict? Where did Matt fit into all of this? He had a great job as an airline pilot and a prize girlfriend. Was he with the girlfriend for the right reasons and was it for the best? What were the roles of Rosie, Damon, Olivia, Craig, and Casey? How did they figure into the story? The author notes that this may be the least “Christian” of the stories about the Lake brothers. The fact of the matter, to my way of thinking, is that it may be more “Christian” than many in this genre because of the significance placed on seeking the best choices rather than just choosing between right and wrong. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
November 16, 2017
"Finding Love in Eureka, California" is the 5th and last story in the "Resort to Love" series, but is the second story in chronology (There are only four books officially in the series, but Dave's story is in the novella collection "Finding Love on the Oregon Coast"). I really enjoyed this book. At the beginning, I was grinning like a fool over Gen's crush and her interactions with Matt. I ached for them in their heartaches and cried over the choices they made. It felt very real, almost as if I was experiencing it myself, or maybe a close friend. I wish I could go listen to one of Rosie's motivational talks. Some of the other Lake brothers make an appearance, as did Emily Van Arsdale. I love how Sam shows up in all the brothers' stories. Both Matt and Gen grew a lot through the book. It was a good reminder that what we may think of as a curse might not really be one and that how someone's life looks from the outside doesn't always show what they are truly going through. I didn't want to put the book down and stayed up too late reading. I am sad that we won't get to spend anymore time with the Lake family.
I was given a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I was given a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
December 11, 2017
This series is one of my favorite Christian love stories ever-and this one did not disappoint. By book four I have some serious attachments to the Lake brothers, and I had a lot of expectations. It was different than the other three, in ways I wasn't really expecting. The content isn't quite as light and bubbly than the other three, but it is honest and open and found me a little raw with the characters sometimes. I had to examine my ideas about the world in some ways--and there were a few triggers for me with things I am processing in my own life. I didn't expect to deal with that while reading this book, but it made the journey of reading the book take on a new dimension that the others didn't have. The author did a really good job at weaving the timelines of the books together--I need to go reread the whole series now!
February 1, 2018
This author’s books are not only delightful to read, but they always touch my heart deeply! Sometimes they are funny. Sometimes I cry while reading them. But I have found her books are full of great & needed life lessons, as well as truth. This book deals with so many topics, such as family curses, thinking our failures define us, fear of rejection, abortion, adoption, loving the unlovable, guilt, … My own copy also has so many lines marked that I find particularly well-phrased and fun to read! This book is also a wonderful, sometimes humorous insight to what it’s like to be in the airline industry. Just a thoroughly delightful & fun read! I read a PDF of this book, and freely chose on my own, and wanted to leave my own honest review.
January 24, 2018
I love visiting with the Lake family. all of the brothers have been fun to read about falling in love. While the book may not contain the Christian components that many have, this book actually feels just that more "Christian" as the characters are forced to really look within to find answers. Each must discover why their lived seem to not be taking the path they so desire. I love Gen and her sister Rosie. Rosie's character brings a whole other dimension to this story. As these characters struggle, the reader is given a story of love, forgiveness, and the finding of ones true path. I really enjoyed this book. I received an advanced copy from the author. The review is my own.
November 16, 2017
I only recently discovered Angela Ruth Strong's writing and I love discovering 'new to me' authors. Her Princess and the PI novel was absolutely delightful. This one is deeper and full of spiritual truths. Our choices affect us and others, always will. But God loves us just the way we are and always has the best in mind for us. Populated with strong characters with very real life situations, this novel is sure to be a great addition to the Finding Love series and will delight Strong's fans.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this novel. My opinions stated here are entirely my own.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this novel. My opinions stated here are entirely my own.
January 23, 2018
I so loved this book. I read it by littles, savoring it slowly. Angela Ruth Strong's books always have that magic mixture of reality, warm humor, and essential faith.
With lots of unexpected twists, Finding Love in Eureka, California, is such a great blend of stark reality and dry wit. I found myself laughing my way through the book, even as it dealt with the problems of severely dysfunctional adopted siblings. The airport antics and blossoming romance completed a perfect setting for a book I'll long remember. Highly recommended!!
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author, which in no way affects my opinions, which are solely my own.
With lots of unexpected twists, Finding Love in Eureka, California, is such a great blend of stark reality and dry wit. I found myself laughing my way through the book, even as it dealt with the problems of severely dysfunctional adopted siblings. The airport antics and blossoming romance completed a perfect setting for a book I'll long remember. Highly recommended!!
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author, which in no way affects my opinions, which are solely my own.
December 31, 2017
Finding love in Eureka, California
Gen works at an airport and has a crush on one of the pilots. She comes from a family where the parents adopted a lot of foster kids. A lot of them found their parents but she was scared to. The pilot named Matt tries to encourage her to find them. This book deals with a lot of issues and definitely kept my attention. It is a very good book. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author.
Gen works at an airport and has a crush on one of the pilots. She comes from a family where the parents adopted a lot of foster kids. A lot of them found their parents but she was scared to. The pilot named Matt tries to encourage her to find them. This book deals with a lot of issues and definitely kept my attention. It is a very good book. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author.
May 22, 2018
This is a very sweet love story.
Finding love in Eureka, California is actually book 4 in the "Resort to Love" series. However, I won this ebook as a giveaway and couldn't wait to jump into it.
I think this is a beautifully written story which covers emotional topics from broken pasts to adventurous living. The love story that grew - or as the title suggest, found - is so sweet and it was great how it all played out.
Finding love in Eureka, California is actually book 4 in the "Resort to Love" series. However, I won this ebook as a giveaway and couldn't wait to jump into it.
I think this is a beautifully written story which covers emotional topics from broken pasts to adventurous living. The love story that grew - or as the title suggest, found - is so sweet and it was great how it all played out.
November 16, 2017
Great story showing real emotions and characters with real life struggles. I enjoy how the author gives the reader a story that is heartwarming and also, shows how we can forgiveness can be found in many situations. Forgiveness, trust and finding love are all found in this story. I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my personal honest opinion.
January 1, 2018
What a story! So many topics covered in the story and the author did it so well! I enjoyed the faith element, how the characters so real and the family element was at times heartbreaking and then joyful too! Family, faith and a little romance... I really enjoyed this one!
I was gifted a copy and my review is voluntary..
I was gifted a copy and my review is voluntary..
February 25, 2018
Captivating
After finishing this 4th book of the series All I could think about was giving Angela (the author) a standing ovation!! I have truly enjoyed these books and found them so captivating! I love her writings and twists when I think I know what’s going to happen. I’m always sad to reach the end! Recommend this book to anyone and everyone!
After finishing this 4th book of the series All I could think about was giving Angela (the author) a standing ovation!! I have truly enjoyed these books and found them so captivating! I love her writings and twists when I think I know what’s going to happen. I’m always sad to reach the end! Recommend this book to anyone and everyone!
March 29, 2018
An excellent book!
Gen has a dysfunctional family. Matt has a family most would envy. Matt has a perfect girlfriend and Gen has a crush on Matt because he’s safe and unattainable. Their story is entertaining and enlightening. Both main characters were extremely likable and had a strong supporting cast.
Gen has a dysfunctional family. Matt has a family most would envy. Matt has a perfect girlfriend and Gen has a crush on Matt because he’s safe and unattainable. Their story is entertaining and enlightening. Both main characters were extremely likable and had a strong supporting cast.
January 24, 2020
Angela Ruth Strong has a strong command of storytelling. Although this uses the least “Christian” language, it has the strongest moral lessons of the series thus far. I love the redemption of her characters in Matt & Genevieve. A story that should be told because in the eyes of God, we all have something to offer.
September 15, 2019
Loved this story and all the romantic twists. If you love romance, you’ll love this book!
January 8, 2021
I am so in love with this book.
A gorgeous story filled with laughter, love, and light. If you only read one book this year, please read this one.
A gorgeous story filled with laughter, love, and light. If you only read one book this year, please read this one.
February 11, 2018
Enjoyable book about faith, family, and love. There is a lot of depth and humor that made the book hard to put down. It was good to finally read about the fourth Lake brother - I have enjoyed this series!
January 10, 2018
This is a beautiful romance, a story about curses,redemption,holy yoga and adoption.
The best part of the book was when Rosie talked about her family.
I loved the story,the marvelous vivid characters and the setting of so many entertaining places.
I recommend this book to those who love Christian fiction and quirky chick lit with a deep spiritual message.
The best part of the book was when Rosie talked about her family.
I loved the story,the marvelous vivid characters and the setting of so many entertaining places.
I recommend this book to those who love Christian fiction and quirky chick lit with a deep spiritual message.
July 19, 2018
This book surprised me in several ways. Although a Christian romance, fitting all the requirements, it contained so much more depth than your typical story. It was real. The characters were flawed in genuine and realistic ways: making choices that did not always endear them to the reader.
The heroine, Gen, is quirky and filled with life, even as she struggles to let herself reach for her happily ever after. The love interest, Matt, is charming, sweet, and an all around good guy, that sometimes fails to do the right thing. There is a strong storyline of faith, without being preachy or saccharine.
On the other hand, there are sprinklings of real life and real failings, that could make some Christian readers a tad uncomfortable (some of the subordinate characters live normal un-Christ-like lives.) I think the author does a very good job presenting these things in a matter-of-fact way that does not highlight or glorify the wrongs in any way.
I admit I would have liked to have seen more of the romance without a particular obstacle. At times the story was a bit "too real" for me (in some of the heartache and pain), and my interest in their relationship waned a bit as they kept flirting with falling, but "knew" they couldn't be together.
Ultimately, the journey of two people falling in love was believable, as it came about in a natural and organic way--not forced nor superficial. I felt blessed by the message of choosing to love, instead of the world's view of it just happening to you.
The heroine, Gen, is quirky and filled with life, even as she struggles to let herself reach for her happily ever after. The love interest, Matt, is charming, sweet, and an all around good guy, that sometimes fails to do the right thing. There is a strong storyline of faith, without being preachy or saccharine.
On the other hand, there are sprinklings of real life and real failings, that could make some Christian readers a tad uncomfortable (some of the subordinate characters live normal un-Christ-like lives.) I think the author does a very good job presenting these things in a matter-of-fact way that does not highlight or glorify the wrongs in any way.
I admit I would have liked to have seen more of the romance without a particular obstacle. At times the story was a bit "too real" for me (in some of the heartache and pain), and my interest in their relationship waned a bit as they kept flirting with falling, but "knew" they couldn't be together.
Ultimately, the journey of two people falling in love was believable, as it came about in a natural and organic way--not forced nor superficial. I felt blessed by the message of choosing to love, instead of the world's view of it just happening to you.
January 1, 2019
Strong’s fourth book in her romantic Resort to Love series is the best one yet! Genevieve is an adorably quirky and endearing heroine surrounded by an equally quirky and unique supporting cast. A whimsical word of warning though: Reading this book may result in humming along to Bianca’s flight-boarding music and possibly investigating the potential of Ruby’s well-intentioned goat yoga. Matt – the dashing hero – twitterpates the heart whenever he shows up on the page, and his banter with Gen is witty as well as tender. While parts of the plot are comfortably predictable, Strong throws in a few surprises along the way that keep the novel feeling fresh and fun. Readers who are familiar with the series can’t help but notice the contrast between Matt’s family (from the previous books) and Genevieve’s, which makes the story’s faith notes all the sweeter.
December 7, 2017
A sweet story that deals with some hard topics with grace and a huge dose of redeeming care. Quirky characters add so much color and humor, and encouraging messages interweave it all like embroidery on cloth. A fun and moving read.
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