Painted Memories

Art of Love #2

by A.M. Heath

She moved on when the love of her life died in the war, but what will happen when she finds out he’s alive? Olivia Jernigan never thought she’d get over Grady. But three years after his death, she’s on the verge of marrying Kenneth Wade when she receives a new painting by her deceased fiance. Olivia flees home to learn what really happened to the man she thought died in the Korean War. The man she thought loved her enough to come home for her. Grady Barnes woke up three years ago in a hospital room with no knowledge of his identity. The only memory to resurface is the image of a woman he can't stop painting. When she suddenly shows up at his painting class, she may help him discover where he really belongs or she may disrupt the life he was building for himself. Olivia and Grady have a history. But now, they wonder if they still have a future … or perhaps, their love is just a painted memory.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fiction

277 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 8, 2021

About the author

Besides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, ladies’ Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and a retired cake decorator who has a soft spot for Christmas trees, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
After years of watching Scooby Doo, Matlock, and Murder She Wrote, I’ve partnered with my best friend to write Christian cozy mysteries under the pen name Chelsea Michelle. What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.

Reviews

[Abigail Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This darling story is not the romance most would expect.

A.M. Heath managed to do something of a love triangle that I ended up loving to the very end.

The heartbreak, the young love, the war, and the healing in "Painted Memories" make for a Christian romance that I highly recommend for romance lovers.

Content: kissing.

[Alicia Ruggieri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this kind of storyline! It reminded me a tiny bit (very different plot, though) of The Waltons episode in which Mary Ellen finds out that Curt is still alive after he was reported dead. (I have a deep fondness for The Waltons and how, in a simply-told story, they often touch on the deep questions of life.)

But this review is about Painted Memories, not The Waltons. 🙂 And well should it be, as I highly recommend that you hie ye hence and snap up a copy. You may well be glued to your reading spot – as I was – while trying to figure out what direction Olivia and Grady will take with their discovery that the life they thought lost to them is still a real possibility.

I can always count on A.M. Heath’s books to be centered on Scripture – I truly appreciate that and am always hunting for books that do likewise. (Other authors who can be counted on for this include Bodie and Brock Thoene, Michael Phillips, Mesu Andrews… hmmm.. I’m going to have to get a list together. 🙂 ) I love how the author wove into Painted Memories the overarching theme of how God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. That really shone through.

One thing I really enjoyed — This novel feels so very SOUTHERN – which this northern/northeastern reader loved experiencing! From the peach cobbler and ice cream to the dialect and church styles — The culture came out so naturally and effortlessly-feeling.

Another thing I loved — The supporting character (literally, supporting! 😉 ) Kenneth. I think Kenneth deserves a medal for his patient wooing of Olivia. I really appreciated how you didn’t make him manipulative at all. When he first approached Olivia at Grady’s memorial service, I was like, “Uh-oh, here comes the weasel.” :-p But then I realized he was really a knight in shining armor, though Olivia didn’t realize it at the time. 🙂

All right! Last thing that I need to mention is — There are so few Christian Fiction novels set during the Korean War era! This is a great addition to that handful and definitely piqued my interest as a historical fiction lover.

This standalone is a solid addition to the Art of Love series and certainly the equal of Dance With Me, which I adore. Both books so far have had me looking ahead (a sure sign that I NEED to know what happens – haha), both had great male leads/supporting characters, great Southern feeling, and a beautiful love story (or stories, in this case).

I highly recommend this novel to mid-to-upper teens and adults.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel and was in no way required to provide a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Tara Savanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s not often that I have the pleasure of reading a sweet romance that tells a beautiful story, builds me spiritually, and doesn’t leave me feeling sad about my single state. But this book did just that and left me wanting more!

Reading about childhood sweethearts like Olivia and Grady that grew into such a deep devotion, even though fictional, just melts my heart. And the way Kenneth handled Olivia’s broken heart—I just loved him for that!

I really felt immersed in the 50s with this story. All the common sayings and phrases of the time really kept my mind there and I never felt like I had to remind myself what time period it was supposed to be in.

My only problem was making myself remember to check the date of each particular section so as not to confuse myself during the time swaps. But that was only because I was so into the story that I just wanted to keep on reading as I turned the page and forgot to check those a couple times!

I loved this book so much that I’ve been trying to figure out how they would go about making a movie out of it and doing justice to the nicely placed time jumps. And that awesome epilogue only added to that desire!

While there is kissing, I would definitely call this a clean, wholesome read. I never once felt like I was reading a “romance novel.” I felt like I was reading something that could have actually happened and all the real-life things that go with it. And I thoroughly appreciated how the author used this story to show how we ourselves can turn to and lean on God when going through difficult things.

*I received an ARC from the author in hopes of an honest review. I was not obligated to leave a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Mary Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel was different from any I’ve read before. Grady and Olivia became engaged before he was drafted to fight in the Korean War. But Grady doesn’t return to her and he is reported dead. Olivia struggles to move on, but grief has her in its grip. But Grady actually has lost his memory and ends up in a military hospital. Will they ever get back together? The chapters of this book alternate between the two characters, told from their points of view. I found it a bit confusing at first because not only did it switch POVs but it goes back and forth in time too, with some chapters from 1953 and some from 1956, all mixed up so readers need to pay attention so as not to be confused. The story tugs at the heart with such real-to-life characters undergoing these difficult situations. The tale did not end as I expected. The author weaves an interesting plot and throws in some surprises. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Painted Memories" is the second book in the Art of Love series, but they are not tied to each other and can each be read as standalones. Whenever I pick up a book by A.M. Heath, I know that it will be well written and woven through with biblical truths. "Painted Memories" was no exception. I liked Grady and Olivia and was conflicted all the way through the book over who I thought Olivia should marry. The tug in both directions was strong. Olivia's emotions and loss were relatable even with not having gone through anything like she did. The setting of the Korean War era was one that I am not that familiar with, so it was fun being immersed in the culture of the time. I eagerly await the next book by A.M. Heath.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

[Amanda Tero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a sweet, heart wrenching story! Even though I read it in rough draft form, I loved returning to it as a polished book. The messages of surrendering to God’s plans when we don’t understand them was very timely for me.

For more cautious readers, there is a decent dose of romance and kissing in this book.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had marked Painted Memories to read when A. M. Heath first introduced it, so I’m thankful I finally was able to read the finish story. I was on the edge of my seat from the start thinking about all that could happen with Grady going off to fight in the Korean War. I appreciate the dual time line, the unique plot with the hero painting skills, an element of mystery, romance and beautifully and gently woven faith message that all things are possible with God. The special card Olivia received added more intrigue and element of wondering how Heath was going to bring this tale to an end. I knew she would do it in her creative style like all the other books I’ve read by her. I look forward to reading each release in Heath’s Art of Love series. However, this is a standalone book and not connected to Dance With Me, the first one in the series.

I received a complimentary e-book from the author and was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow…! This book was an emotional rollercoaster: sweet and heart-breaking and amazing. I can’t imagine placing myself in Olivia’s shoes or even Grady’s for that matter. The theme of surrendering our plans to trust that God’s ways are best even when we can’t see the whole picture is beautifully woven into the story. Also I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book set in this time period before, but I loved it!

Usually I dislike the love triangle trope, but in this case, I actually didn’t mind it *too much*. Olivia was overly emotional at times, and as a nonemotional person, that was a little grating, but given the circumstances, I suppose I can’t blame her. And Kenneth…be still my heart, that man is an utter gem! He is one of my new favourite book heroes. His patience, tenderness, and not being afraid to call Olivia out when needed were a beautiful picture of true love.

I’m very glad the ending worked out the way it did; it was as I had hoped. :)

Content: engaged couples kiss

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a touching story of GOD'S love and that he is a waster of none. Olivia and Grady had everything planned out. But GOD had a different plan.

I really liked Olivia and felt so terrible for her. How do you let go of all the dreams you had? How do you grieve? No one can tell you how to do it. Grieving is personal. Olivia took tiny steps to healing.

Many lessons learned in reading this story. I thought of thIs one while reading Painted Memories.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

I didn't expect the book to end like it did. It was touching and brought a tear to my eye. But it ended just like GOD intended it to be.

I received this ebook for free from Celebrate Lit to give a honest review.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes we get a second chance with our first love, even under devastating circumstances. Olivia tries to move on with life after receiving word that her fiance died during the Korean War. At the same time, Grady eventually wakes up in a hospital room with no memory of his past. A. M. Heath masterfully weaves these two characters and two storylines into a meaningful and faith-centered story.

I found myself caught up in the story and in the lives of the characters. The story contains powerful emotions and how we find ourselves in circumstances that cause us to question why God allows us to suffer certain losses and heartaches. So check out this book for yourself.

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

[Kathy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story should be a Hallmark movie!

This isn’t the first book of A. M. Heath’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be the last. Each story has a clear Christian message to it that not only ministers to the characters in the story but also to the reader.

I loved the characters. I laughed with them and wept with them throughout the story. I longed to see the painting which figures so prominently in the story. How vivid Ms. Heath’s writing is!

I can’t praise this story enough. You really should read it.

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

Currently reading my ARC - Full Review to come!

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes I don’t quite know how to start a review and this is one of those times. The emotional roller coaster the author takes readers on needs a warning. Do not start reading this book until you have gathered tissues, a comfy place to read and time to finish the book in one setting. It was impossible to put the book down. I had to know what would happen between Grady and Olivia.

Their story is told through snippets of the past with elegance and deep emotions. I can still remember the feeling I had when I witnessed their undeniable commitment to each other. Oh but in the dark place stood a roadblock that would forever change their destiny. We often ask God why things happens and I consider this a prime example of His Will. It was so heartbreaking to think that Grady had died and I wept along with Olivia as she felt her future crumble. Everywhere she went Grady was in her mind. Would she ever be able to let go of his memory and find love again?

Grady has a long road ahead of him as he tries to remember who he is and what his life was like before his injury. I really liked getting to walk beside him as he struggled to figure out the image of a woman in his mind. It was no accident or coincidence that he painted a picture of Olivia. Her image wouldn’t go away. I can’t begin to say I understand what it is like to lose your memory. Grady tries everyday to remember something, anything that will help him get closer to knowing who he is.

There are a few other characters in the story that bring hope to the story. Maureen and Kenneth both find themselves in love with someone who won’t let go of the past. The most important part of the book for me was when Olivia is told that she has used Grady and his memory like an idol. What happened to her relationship with God? Have you ever placed someone or something more important than God? In the moment she realized what she has done, she surrenders herself to the one she first loved. Oh this part of the story can’t be overlooked. It reminds us to keep our heart pure and always put God first. The scriptures the author uses are exactly what many of us need to think on.

I won’t go into anymore detail about the story because within the pages readers will find their journey to hope, forgiveness and a better understanding of God’s unconditional love.

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

[Nyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Painted Memories is a Christian historical romance by author A.M. Heath. The setting is in what I consider more contemporary historical as it is in the 1950’s during the Korean War. Even though it is not my favorite era for books I loved this one.

This is the story of Olivia Jernigan. She and Grady Barnes have been sweethearts since they were in school. They are perfect for each other. Everyone expects them to marry one day. It is also Grady’s story. He is a great guy who loves Olivia but finds himself going overseas in the Korean War.

One day he wakes up in an army hospital after having a traumatic head injury with no recollection of who he is, his past, or what happened. There is no way to notify his family, and he is presumed dead. Olivia is heartbroken but urged to continue on with her life.

Author Heath has a welcoming style of writing. I am immediately whisked away to the era and setting of her story. My interest is piqued early and stays throughout the book. The dialogs sound authentic as do the vivid descriptions. Author Heath’s novels are an experience and not just a book. Through her excellent skilled pen I could feel Olivia’s grief, almost taste and smell peaches, and see the hospital where Grady stayed.

There are many twists and turns in this page turner. At one point, I disagreed with the direction of the story until the author’s sound, God guided reasoning became evident. Needless to say, I changed my thinking after that. This is packed with timeless, valuable life lessons and spiritual lessons. It is encouraging and inspiring. I highly recommend it. This would make for a lively book club discussion. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

[Esther Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story drew me in, showed me a time I knew little about, and kept me in suspense the entire way through. It’s not only a sweet story; it’s also a little sad, but that’s redeemed beautifully in here. I loved the tension between grief and hope; the longing for a fresh start and future, but the fear that that would never eventuate. I loved the love between the characters—the gentle care they showed for each other, even when they themselves were hurting. And though I thought I hated the grieving process shown in here, it was perfect.

A beautiful book. Highly recommended!

I was given a complementary review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this sweet romance. The author did a great job with the characters and the storyline. There are twists, and turns in the story and it kept me intrigued from the first page all the way through.

I really liked Olivia and Grady. There were so many emotions and so much that happened. I don't want to say too much because there are little stories inside the big story and you have to keep pace with the story to understand but it is totally worth it.

4/5 for me.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Kim Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. The intriguing plot with all of its twists and turns, plus the smaller storylines woven in, made for a very entertaining read. I especially love the author's message that Christ should be at the center of our lives, and that all things work for good, even when you can't understand how at the time. If you're a fan of Christian romance, and/or Hallmark movies, you need to pick up a copy of this book. You'll be happy you did.

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Promises

Grady & Olivia are meant to be together forever and have pledged their promise to marry. Then Uncle Sam steps in with greetings & Grady is soon off to Korea. Word comes back home that he has been killed, and Olivia & his family & friends are left to grieve. Meantime, a soldier at a veteran's hospital in Oregon regains consciousness and finds his past is a total blank. The author must weave their stories together over a three year period. I was slightly distracted by the jumping timeline for each of the main characters, but I acclimated to the process. It was a very good story with a strong emphasis on the Biblical teachings that helped them deal with their situations.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Painted Memories is the second book in A.M. Heath's Art of Love series. Though a series, these stories are completely unrelated and as such are great to read as standalones. Still, I must admit after reading this one I'm looking forward to going back and reading more from this new to me author. What a sweet story this was!

In Painted Memories we meet Olivia as she is preparing for her wedding after healing from the loss of her fiancé Grady in the Korean War three years earlier. When she receives a painting as a wedding gift that she knows to be the work of her first love, she sets out to find him and discover why he never came home. With no memories of his past, aside from glimpses of a mysterious woman... what will Grady do when she shows up? And what will it all mean for the new loves in their life?

What a unique story this was. Oftentimes I think that when we are dealing with the topic of memory loss, stories can go to daytime soap opera cheesy easily and I must admit I was a little apprehensive about this story before I began reading. I quickly discovered that wasn't the case at all. The topic was handled beautifully and not in any way cheesy or overly dramatic. Instead it was a story of love, loss, moving on and so much more. Most importantly, I loved the message of faith and how God uses all things for His good. This was definitely one story in which faith was definitely in the forefront of the story!

Overall, this was a sweet read and one that I really enjoyed. Fans of historical fiction and inspirational romances are sure to enjoy it.

**Book received for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Painted Memories by A.M. Heath is Book 2 in the Art of Love Series. I
have not read book 1, but I was not lost reading Book 2. The books
are great Standalone books. Christian Historical Fiction is the genre
for this series, a genre I really love.

Olivia Jernigan and Grady Barnes have known each other since childhood.
They hope to marry one day. Grady then goes off to fight in the Korean War,
but promises to come home soon. Olivia is anxiously awaiting his return, instead
she gets word that he has died at War. She is devastated and goes through
a time of grieving. 3yrs have passed and Olivia now has a fiance and is ready to
marry. Olivia receives a painted picture of herself and she sets out to discover
who sent this to her. Her search leads her to a painting class and to Grady. Grady
has been in a hospital in Oregon, and has a major case of Amnesia and cannot
remember who or where he is. Will seeing Olivia in person, bring his memory
back? Will Olivia fall in LOVE with Grady again and break up with her fiance?
Is there a future for Grady and Olivia?

I really enjoyed reading Painted Memories, I was hooked from the very
first chapter. A.M. Heath has a wonderful writing style. I also really
appreciate the Scripture and Christian aspect of the book. Long term
Amnesia is more common then people think. The author really touched
on a great topic, and did so in a manner that was gentle and caring. The
characters are really good together. The Twists and turns in the book
kept me on the edge of seat and wouldn't let me put the book down until
I was finished reading. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read!

I can’t say that memory loss has really been on my thoughts before. Maybe a little bit when I’ve read books about it but then it’s quickly forgotten. Not a pun, well not intentionally.

I really enjoyed getting to know Olivia and Grady. They were engaged to be married when he went missing in the war. Olivia thought him dead and was trying to move on with her life. That is until she was staring at herself in a painting. When she went to search for the painter imagine her surprise when she found Grady only with no memories.

This is a great book about regaining what’s lost and coming to terms with your dreams not turning out precisely as you thought they would. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. The writing kept me intrigued and I definitely wanted to finish the book though it wasn’t quite one of those that I couldn’t put down for bits at a time. It did have some good parts that made me think.

I recommend this book and hope you enjoy it and this author as much as I did. I think she’s done a wonderful job at research and learned some new things while reading. Grab your copy, give it a read, and then come back to tell me what you think of this book and the whole series.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author A.M. Heath offers a glimpse of innocent young love and hopes for a future in this intriguing story that alternates between 1956 and flashbacks of the previous four years. She completely captures the plethora of emotions of two people who thought they would spend their lives together but instead, had their dreams stolen from them. We witness Olivia Jernigan's overwhelming grief when she learns that Grady Barnes was killed in the service and her reluctance to let go of "what might have been". Grady, however, didn't die but he has no memories at all and is understandably confused and frustrated over his forgotten past. Will Olivia's own memories forever color any relationship she might enjoy in the future? How will she ever love again after loving Grady so completely? Is Grady's past forever erased?

This book isn't long in length but it packs a powerful reminder that God's Plan may not be what we thought it would be. Even though "Johnny" (Grady) has no clues to his identity or his former life, he is able to recall the features of a young woman and paint them on canvas. He might not remember who she was but apparently, she was an important part of his past life! But is she destined to be his future? Painted Memories is a touching and thought-provoking story and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian romance.

I received a PDF copy of this book. There was no obligation for a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.

[Kimmie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a memory? How can you paint just a memory?

Painted Memories was my first book by A.M. Heath, and I really enjoyed this look into an era that does not often find its way into the realm of fiction (at least to my knowledge). A.M. Heath has a very conversational way of writing that was easy to follow, and I really enjoyed the heart touching memories she recounted through her characters. Olivia, Grady, and the other characters were nicely done, and they were fun to read about. I thought their struggles were realistic (it's so hard not to give away the story here!), and that all the characters showed a great reliance on faith to see them through.

Overall, this story was like a reminisce of your favorite flashbacks to growing up combined with some shocking revelations that were handled well. A.M. Heath wove in some wonderful scriptures and I truly loved the memories she invented for her characters. I give Painted Memories 4 out of 5 stars. The only thing I had trouble with was the back and forth between past and present, it got pretty confusing at points when combined with switching between points of view (POV) I had to flip back and remember who, what, when, and where this scene was supposed to fit! But the overall story was very sweet.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest opinion. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Ebos Aifuobhokhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and Grady's story was a very touching one.

Sweethearts since childhood and with a promise of marriage, Grady went off to fight the Korean war with promises to return. Then the unimaginable happened and their lives and dreams were torn apart. With new people in their lives now, things started to unfold. I guess the heart never forgets the one it loves. The emotions illustrated in this book were so palable that it jumped off the pages of the book. For the duration I read the book, I loved in it and felt the pain, travails and triumphs of the characters.

The book was so captivating and interesting. I could not wait to swipe my screen to know what was going to happen next. Each page was filled with intrigue and Lip-biting suspense. The author was very skillful in unfolding the story line by line.

God's sovereignty shone brightest through the pages of this book. It was so inspiring and touching to see how He uses different life situations to refine his children into who he wants them to be. The life and fiath lessons in this book is unrivaled and for everyone.

I finished the book in one sitting. That's how amazing it was.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Erica Nicole Pait · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading something by this author. I enjoyed the setting and plot (Everyone knows I'm irresistibly drawn to those mountains... and I've yet to meet the amnesia book I didn't pick up.) but also the time period! For once it's a war novel not set in WWII. Don't get me wrong, I love a good D-Day romance as much as the next person, but sometimes it's just nice to switch it up. This might be the first book I've ever read set in Korean War times. The storyline itself was great, and even I didn't know how it was going to end, which is starting to be a rarity. I'm all in for those twisty ol' plot lines! The characters were sweet, but I would consider this a light read. I didn't feel like there was a ton of deep development, and part of that was the shortness of the story. The time-hopping also threw me off a little, even though I'm usually fine with that. I really did just want the story to stay put in the present day. I guess that just shows how invested I was in what was happening, though. The ending was very sweet too. All in all, a really good little book that you should definitely pick up. Four stars!

As always, these are my own honest thoughts and opinions, though I was given a review copy of this book.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Painted Memories by: A.M. Heath is a Christian Historical Romance. This book is part of the Art of Love series. However, the book is a standalone. I have read several books by this author, and I have always enjoyed every one. In this book, Olivia says goodbye to Grady when he goes off to the Korean War. He does not return home, and Olivia is not sure if she can move on.

Fast forward three years, and Olivia is now engaged to Kenneth. She still wonders what might have been. She receives a painting in the mail from Grady and everything changes. She rushes off to go where the painting came from. Grady has been trying to figure out who he was since he woke up in a hospital three years ago. Can Olivia help him remember who he is and what they had?

This book will take you on an emotional coaster. One minute you will be smiling - and the next tears will be flowing. I love the way this author writes. She pulls at your heart strings. She writes beautiful characters. She writes a historically accurate storyline.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the "Art of Love Series" but they are definitely not tied together and are read as stand alones. This is my first book my A.M. Heath and I absolutely enjoyed it. It was so well written and I loved how biblical truths were interwoven throughout the story. I must admit the story threw me for a loop as I didn't quite expect the outcome of the storyline to be like it was. I had to stop at times and kind of put myself in the character's shoes and decide what i would have done in their place. But alas the ending completely make ssense and although it was somewhat bittersweet it was beautiful. Love is definitely something that changes and blossoms we time and God definitely knows exactly what He is doing.

Overall I thought it was a great read. If you enjoy dual timelines and elements of mystery and romance I recommend this book!

I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love A.M. Heath's book but it seems I always pick a time when I am dealing with grief to read her books. So this time I am gong to add a warning, her books makes me cry but I still recommend them because she weaves so much faith through her stories that her readers understand that they are not alone and that God does bring Beauty from the Ashes of our life.

This is the second book in the "Art of Love Series" but they can be read as stand alones. This is a story of love and loss and moving on. It is also a story about not letting someone replace our "First Love" which should be Jesus.

If you enjoy dual timelines and elements of mystery and romance then this definitely is a book for you. It also deals with memory loss, this I think the title really is a great one for this book.

This book has an surprising ending!

If you haven't read this author before I really encourage you to pick up this book and I believe you will soon pick up her other books.

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

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading the first book from AM Heath’s Art of Love series, Dance With Me. I was excited to have the opportunity to read the second installment, Painted Memories. I thought it was a really another good read. I am always reading historical fiction but I can not tell one that was written during the Korean War era. That was unique and refreshing to me. I thought the details were vivid and made feel as though I was transported back in time to Olivia’s world. The story was not one that I found predictable and was hard to put down. I really liked it.

I am giving Painted Memories four and a half stars. I am hoping there will be a third book releasing from the Art of Love series in the near future. I recommend this one for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance.

I received Painted Memories from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best dual timeline stories I ever read and one of the best books of the year for me. I had no idea what kind of emotional journey that this story was going to take me. I could hardly put this book down. I loved the whole plot line and Grady’s memory of painting Olivia. Grady and Olivia’s story really takes us down a road that we all would hate to travel. At least I know I would hate to have to make the decisions that they made. The romance between them was so sweet and even I couldn’t decide which way I wanted the story to go. I kept wondering how the author was going to work it but I think she did a marvelous job of figuring it all out. A very inspirational story to me and really made me think, what if.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.