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Thatcher Sisters #3
The Best We've Been
How can you choose what is right for you when your decision will break the heart of someone you love?
Having abandoned her childhood dream years ago, Johanna Thatcher knows what she wants from life. Discovering that her fiancé was cheating on her only convinces Johanna it’s best to maintain control and protect her heart.
Despite years of distance and friction, Johanna and her sisters, Jillian and Payton, have moved from a truce toward a fragile friendship. But then Johanna reveals she has the one thing Jillian wants most and may never have―and Johanna doesn’t want it. As Johanna wrestles with a choice that will change her life and her relationships with her sisters forever, the cracks in Jillian’s marriage and faith deepen. Through it all, the Thatcher sisters must decide once and for all what it means to be family.
Having abandoned her childhood dream years ago, Johanna Thatcher knows what she wants from life. Discovering that her fiancé was cheating on her only convinces Johanna it’s best to maintain control and protect her heart.
Despite years of distance and friction, Johanna and her sisters, Jillian and Payton, have moved from a truce toward a fragile friendship. But then Johanna reveals she has the one thing Jillian wants most and may never have―and Johanna doesn’t want it. As Johanna wrestles with a choice that will change her life and her relationships with her sisters forever, the cracks in Jillian’s marriage and faith deepen. Through it all, the Thatcher sisters must decide once and for all what it means to be family.
464 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
67 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Beth K. Vogt
23 books876 followersBeth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an Air Force family physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. Now Beth believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” The Best We’ve Been, the final book in Beth’s Thatcher Sisters Series with Tyndale House Publishers, releases May 2020. Other books in the series include Things I Never Told You, which one the 2019 AWSA Award for Contemporary Novel of the Year, and Moments We Forget.
Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. Her 2014 novel, Somebody Like You, was one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2014. A November Bride was part of the Year of Wedding Series by Zondervan. Having authored nine contemporary romance novels or novellas, Beth believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us.
An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at bethvogt.com.
Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. Her 2014 novel, Somebody Like You, was one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2014. A November Bride was part of the Year of Wedding Series by Zondervan. Having authored nine contemporary romance novels or novellas, Beth believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us.
An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at bethvogt.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
November 22, 2020
The Best We've Been was my favourite of Thatcher Sister series. In the first two books, I got glimpse's of the oldest sister Johanna, but in the last book, I got the chance get to know her better, and I felt that somehow I connected more with her character than I did with the first two sisters. It was nice to see the changes coming gradually in Johanna, and how she opened her heart in ways she never expected she could, but in the end, she probably wouldn't want it any other way.
September 5, 2020
Intense and emotional conclusion to the Thatcher Sisters Series.
Oldest sister Johanna is controlling, direct and distant. She can be hard to love but glimpses of her heart came through in the pages.
Beautiful writing and the characters wonderfully described. I was captivated by this story and brought to tears more than once.
I loved that the ending left several details lingering.
Oldest sister Johanna is controlling, direct and distant. She can be hard to love but glimpses of her heart came through in the pages.
Beautiful writing and the characters wonderfully described. I was captivated by this story and brought to tears more than once.
I loved that the ending left several details lingering.
December 2, 2019
The Best We’ve Been is a beautiful story of what happens when life doesn’t go as planned and how it can pull us closer together. Johanna’s world has been upended and it has ripple effects through her family. It is a beautiful story of how family can come together when the lies are replaced with truth and when the choice is made to trust and find common ground. I loved every page, couldn’t wait to return to the characters, and felt every emotion. A wonderful addition to Beth Vogt’s books.
January 21, 2024
The Best We've Been is the third book in the Thatcher Sisters series and I absolutely loved it.
The characters were so deep. They had many issues to work through and I LOVED seeing them grow. I liked seeing why Johanna was the way she was and what a journey she had in this book.
All in all, The Best We've Been was a fantastic read and I recommend the series to fans of family drama stories.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The characters were so deep. They had many issues to work through and I LOVED seeing them grow. I liked seeing why Johanna was the way she was and what a journey she had in this book.
All in all, The Best We've Been was a fantastic read and I recommend the series to fans of family drama stories.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
May 27, 2020
Beth Vogt’s poignant novel, The Best We’ve Ever Been, shows how secret resentments and unwise comparisons can poison family relationships. As the story progresses, the adult siblings reveal their vulnerabilities and worst sides. And what makes it so painful to read is seeing ourselves in their insecurities, fears, and self-destructive lies. You might find a button or two pushed as they work through their issues. But rest assured, their faith brings them home to the forgiveness, comfort, and strength to be found in healthy family living.
Part cautionary tale, part family saga. Thoughtful and uplifting.
Side note: I appreciate the author’s stand for life, embodied by the female OB-BYN, who succinctly states in chapter 1, “I choose not to perform abortions because they could be harmful to mothers-to-be, like you, and they are most definitely harmful to unborn children. Why, then, would I help you get one?”
Part cautionary tale, part family saga. Thoughtful and uplifting.
Side note: I appreciate the author’s stand for life, embodied by the female OB-BYN, who succinctly states in chapter 1, “I choose not to perform abortions because they could be harmful to mothers-to-be, like you, and they are most definitely harmful to unborn children. Why, then, would I help you get one?”
March 22, 2020
'It seems every time I grasp even the smallest bit of hope, it gets taken away from me.'
Beth Vogt brings us Johanna's story in this last of her Thatcher Sisters series and she saved the best for last. I will confess that I did not like Johanna in the previous books. She was not likeable, in my opinion. But I was taught a lesson in this book. I admit I had no idea how Vogt would bring her into a place where she would indeed be likeable to the reader, but she manages this admirably.
Johanna finds herself in a desperate situation and reacts like a typical Johanna at first, but soon she changes her mind and decides to go forth in the style she manages her entire life: head held high, allowing no one to see her pain and confusion. She is Johanna Thatcher. She can do this. No matter what. After all, she is very good at closing herself off to avoid pain. She's actually become a master at it.
It is a rare book that manages to bring out such deep emotions in me. This one pulled at everything inside me as Vogt continues to explore these sisters to such a degree that it's just amazing. I was stunned at times at the incredible emotional depth she manages to pull out of these women. I was left weeping several times as I marveled at the powerful realness of this novel. It's not just a fluffy story of three sisters. No, it's way more than that. It's deeply moving and heart wrenching, but also full of hope and precious love. I was moved greatly during the reading of this book and it will stay with me a very long time to come. I can highly recommend this book.
*My thanks to Tyndale House Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Beth Vogt brings us Johanna's story in this last of her Thatcher Sisters series and she saved the best for last. I will confess that I did not like Johanna in the previous books. She was not likeable, in my opinion. But I was taught a lesson in this book. I admit I had no idea how Vogt would bring her into a place where she would indeed be likeable to the reader, but she manages this admirably.
Johanna finds herself in a desperate situation and reacts like a typical Johanna at first, but soon she changes her mind and decides to go forth in the style she manages her entire life: head held high, allowing no one to see her pain and confusion. She is Johanna Thatcher. She can do this. No matter what. After all, she is very good at closing herself off to avoid pain. She's actually become a master at it.
It is a rare book that manages to bring out such deep emotions in me. This one pulled at everything inside me as Vogt continues to explore these sisters to such a degree that it's just amazing. I was stunned at times at the incredible emotional depth she manages to pull out of these women. I was left weeping several times as I marveled at the powerful realness of this novel. It's not just a fluffy story of three sisters. No, it's way more than that. It's deeply moving and heart wrenching, but also full of hope and precious love. I was moved greatly during the reading of this book and it will stay with me a very long time to come. I can highly recommend this book.
*My thanks to Tyndale House Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
May 28, 2020
It takes great talent and finesse to take a character that isn't completely likeable and build a world around them, through which the eyes of the reader are allowed a deeper look into their life and what really makes them what they are. And such writing, convinced this reader that I very, very much liked The Best We've Been.
Having read the previous two books in the Thatcher Sisters series, I greatly enjoyed how Payton and Jillian's stories were woven throughout Johanna's. It's not just a book about one sister, but all three sisters, bringing to a gentle close the stories started in preceding books.
While Payton and Jillian acquired yet more depth and satisfied reader longings to know more of their story, it is Johanna who has center stage. I will admit: I didn't care much for her in previous books. She has a sharp outer exterior, making it hard to get to know her, so to have this curtain peeled back made all the difference in learning to like (yes, I said like) this strong woman. Her story is not wrapped up with a neat little bow--but when is life ever this way? And that is what makes this book (and really this series) from page one incredibly believable and yet still satisfying. Johanna deserves her chance and while she will never be the "warm and fuzzy" type of character readers adore, I will say, this book is the best in the entire series.
Highly recommended for readers of women's fiction. A solid five stars.
Having read the previous two books in the Thatcher Sisters series, I greatly enjoyed how Payton and Jillian's stories were woven throughout Johanna's. It's not just a book about one sister, but all three sisters, bringing to a gentle close the stories started in preceding books.
While Payton and Jillian acquired yet more depth and satisfied reader longings to know more of their story, it is Johanna who has center stage. I will admit: I didn't care much for her in previous books. She has a sharp outer exterior, making it hard to get to know her, so to have this curtain peeled back made all the difference in learning to like (yes, I said like) this strong woman. Her story is not wrapped up with a neat little bow--but when is life ever this way? And that is what makes this book (and really this series) from page one incredibly believable and yet still satisfying. Johanna deserves her chance and while she will never be the "warm and fuzzy" type of character readers adore, I will say, this book is the best in the entire series.
Highly recommended for readers of women's fiction. A solid five stars.
May 28, 2020
3.5 stars
"We're all good. . . . The best we've been in a long time."
"The best" for the Thatcher sisters was indeed, a long time coming. Their personalities were so distinct that independence meant constantly leaving someone out, or their arguments predictably generated a peacemaker in the middle of the three; and like a song repeating itself over and over and over again, the fragile balance of their friendship would topple hopelessly to the ground. And topple it did when Jillian acted uncharacteristicly impulsive, and Johanna nearly made the worst decision of her life; leaving Payton to pick up the pieces in between. Why did their family always feel the need to keep secrets?
In some ways, this book really doesn't end. In other ways, its open ended conclusions create a deeper sense of realism and authenticity. The emotional journey between the pages is a road that many readers have either already travelled, are currently travelling, or will have to travel at some point in their life. Ultimately, to quote their beloved Pepper, . . . . "Sometimes you have to forget everything else and remember you're family."
"We're all good. . . . The best we've been in a long time."
"The best" for the Thatcher sisters was indeed, a long time coming. Their personalities were so distinct that independence meant constantly leaving someone out, or their arguments predictably generated a peacemaker in the middle of the three; and like a song repeating itself over and over and over again, the fragile balance of their friendship would topple hopelessly to the ground. And topple it did when Jillian acted uncharacteristicly impulsive, and Johanna nearly made the worst decision of her life; leaving Payton to pick up the pieces in between. Why did their family always feel the need to keep secrets?
In some ways, this book really doesn't end. In other ways, its open ended conclusions create a deeper sense of realism and authenticity. The emotional journey between the pages is a road that many readers have either already travelled, are currently travelling, or will have to travel at some point in their life. Ultimately, to quote their beloved Pepper, . . . . "Sometimes you have to forget everything else and remember you're family."
February 27, 2022
What a stirring conclusion to the Thatcher sisters. It was gripping, touching, and simply wonderful all the way through. It took my distaste for book two and went above my expectations, reminding me of book one.
Johanna redeemed herself for me. I desire to know her, cry with her, and go through life with her. This woman showed us how to face unwanted circumstances with thought and grace. She was complex and broken. Payton was again relatable and funny. And I'm happy Jillian worked her baggage out but still gave me some grief.
Threads of romance were sparse as this novel focused on the changes inside us and around us. Beth Vogt did not shy away from a tough issue, which made the story all the more cemented in my memory and heart.
It was a beautiful and poignant close to this series. I recommend it to all who desire to see ourselves in characters and who desire to change their thinking.
Johanna redeemed herself for me. I desire to know her, cry with her, and go through life with her. This woman showed us how to face unwanted circumstances with thought and grace. She was complex and broken. Payton was again relatable and funny. And I'm happy Jillian worked her baggage out but still gave me some grief.
Threads of romance were sparse as this novel focused on the changes inside us and around us. Beth Vogt did not shy away from a tough issue, which made the story all the more cemented in my memory and heart.
It was a beautiful and poignant close to this series. I recommend it to all who desire to see ourselves in characters and who desire to change their thinking.
June 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this 3rd installment in the Thatcher Sisters trilogy. While this is book 3, you could probably read it as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading the books in order so that you get a better glimpse of the family's story. While I didn't dislike the first 2 books, they took me a bit to get into because the characters were initially not quite likable to me. As the characters have grown throughout the series, they've become more likable. This one was definitely my favorite of the 3 and I enjoyed seeing Joanna blossom. She's been the least likable of the Thatcher sisters, but I've been intrigued by her story. I love what it was that softened her up! I'd recommend this series to fans of inspirational women's fiction.
May 4, 2020
When I read the first book in Beth Vogt’s the Thatcher sister series, I wasn’t a big fan of Johanna, the oldest Thatcher sister. I liked her a little more in the second book.
Can I own that The Best We’ve Been, Johanna’s story is probably my favorite in this series?
Johanna Thatcher is a pharmacist who has had to adapt to working for a boss with a knack for rubbing her in all the stretching ways. As if it wasn’t hard enough that her job environment has been altered, big changes have occurred in her life as well. After discovering in the second book that her fiancé was cheating on her, Johanna grapples with disappointment and betrayal.
And, because Johanna needs one more thing, life throws an unexpected surprise with a life-changing decision that must be made.
As Johanna Jillian, and Payton move from almost strangers to the beginning of friendship, it’s beautiful to watch their messy relationships grow into something authentic through the course of the story. Each must work out their beliefs and struggles in their relationships with each other and with significant others.
This thought-provoking story explores family relationships in such a real way, highlighting desires each sister has and how the three of them work through conflict.
Another theme included navigating disappointment when things don’t go as planned. Jillian yearns for something Johanna can give her, but will she? For people who enjoy stories that dig below the surface and tackle the tougher issues of life in an authentic way, this story is sure to please.
Vogt doesn’t tie up all the loose ends with neat happily-ever-after bows. Sometimes, real life doesn’t have those endings either. But, this book is a very satisfying conclusion to this series.
I laughed at some points, and I teared up in others. And my heart found agreement with some of the struggles the sisters had to work through. Vogt has created art in the way she breathes life into her characters.
People who enjoy books involving relationships, sisters and friends, and that tackles real-life issues in a genuine manner will especially appreciate this finale to the Thatcher sister series.
Can I own that The Best We’ve Been, Johanna’s story is probably my favorite in this series?
Johanna Thatcher is a pharmacist who has had to adapt to working for a boss with a knack for rubbing her in all the stretching ways. As if it wasn’t hard enough that her job environment has been altered, big changes have occurred in her life as well. After discovering in the second book that her fiancé was cheating on her, Johanna grapples with disappointment and betrayal.
And, because Johanna needs one more thing, life throws an unexpected surprise with a life-changing decision that must be made.
As Johanna Jillian, and Payton move from almost strangers to the beginning of friendship, it’s beautiful to watch their messy relationships grow into something authentic through the course of the story. Each must work out their beliefs and struggles in their relationships with each other and with significant others.
This thought-provoking story explores family relationships in such a real way, highlighting desires each sister has and how the three of them work through conflict.
Another theme included navigating disappointment when things don’t go as planned. Jillian yearns for something Johanna can give her, but will she? For people who enjoy stories that dig below the surface and tackle the tougher issues of life in an authentic way, this story is sure to please.
Vogt doesn’t tie up all the loose ends with neat happily-ever-after bows. Sometimes, real life doesn’t have those endings either. But, this book is a very satisfying conclusion to this series.
I laughed at some points, and I teared up in others. And my heart found agreement with some of the struggles the sisters had to work through. Vogt has created art in the way she breathes life into her characters.
People who enjoy books involving relationships, sisters and friends, and that tackles real-life issues in a genuine manner will especially appreciate this finale to the Thatcher sister series.
April 29, 2020
Wow, I was blown away by how this author brilliantly talks about real life stuff, and tough topics in a gritty, believable, no-nonsense kind of way. Family relationships are not easy especially if one member heads down a path that will affect them all. I liked how these sisters reveal their hurts to one another as they work through their own issues. It is not easy. It takes courage and time. I liked how the author tells the story from the varying perspectives, of each of the sisters. Johanna, Jillian, and Payton are in uncharted territory, each struggle in their own way to navigate this new chapter that could blow up the family forever if they go down the path of bitterness and unforgiveness.
I liked how this author shows a real, honest, look at life’s ups and downs, and everything in-between. Jillian and Payton soon discover there is no smooth sailing in the bumpy waves of life. It is not comfortable or easy but well worth discovering that love is the common denominator in everything.
I enjoyed how Zach gently encourages his wife Payton to go to a bible study. I loved how this author describes their first meeting and how Payton asks why they have to go in the first place. She did not need any more "homework." I remember going to my first bible study, I was a teen. This author nails the questions and feelings that I felt at that first meeting and beyond.
Beth Vogt brings hope to her characters through a relationship with God, shown in an encouraging, believable, non-preachy way. Each one of these sisters deals with the need for this kind of love in their everyday lives.
I like what Jillian’s friend Harper tells her about all of life’s struggles and what to do in the storm. “…It’s not about breast cancer….Or anything else that might happen.”…”That’s not the common ground you stand on. You love Geoff. He loves you. That’s your common ground. And nothing else– …should ever come between you.”
It would help if you read book one and two before this one but the author does catch the reader up so they don’t feel lost in the story. This would make a great book for book club, there is so much to discuss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
I liked how this author shows a real, honest, look at life’s ups and downs, and everything in-between. Jillian and Payton soon discover there is no smooth sailing in the bumpy waves of life. It is not comfortable or easy but well worth discovering that love is the common denominator in everything.
I enjoyed how Zach gently encourages his wife Payton to go to a bible study. I loved how this author describes their first meeting and how Payton asks why they have to go in the first place. She did not need any more "homework." I remember going to my first bible study, I was a teen. This author nails the questions and feelings that I felt at that first meeting and beyond.
Beth Vogt brings hope to her characters through a relationship with God, shown in an encouraging, believable, non-preachy way. Each one of these sisters deals with the need for this kind of love in their everyday lives.
I like what Jillian’s friend Harper tells her about all of life’s struggles and what to do in the storm. “…It’s not about breast cancer….Or anything else that might happen.”…”That’s not the common ground you stand on. You love Geoff. He loves you. That’s your common ground. And nothing else– …should ever come between you.”
It would help if you read book one and two before this one but the author does catch the reader up so they don’t feel lost in the story. This would make a great book for book club, there is so much to discuss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
December 15, 2019
Few things in life can simultaneously afflict and heal the heart like family, and Beth Vogt delivers all this and more in her heart-rending, moving grand finale of her Thatcher sisters saga. With intricate and intimate detail, Vogt puts readers right in the midst of the relationships between Johanna and Beckett, Payton and Zach, Jill and Geoff, and more, providing a poignant and brave, playful and utterly relatable relational drama. Readers are sure to discover the power of forgiveness--between family and for the self--in Vogt's most insightful story yet.
May 4, 2020
Heartbreaking Situations, Heartrending Story
The Thatcher Sisters series, described as “'Little Women' gone wrong,” recounts the fragile relationship between three sisters and the hard, real-life problems that drove them apart. Vogt’s newest release is the story of the oldest sister, Johanna Thatcher.
Johanna takes her responsibility as first-born very seriously. We all know someone who’s a serious, over-achieving organizer, right? Johanna makes it an art form. She reminds me of Jethro Gibbs (NCIS) on a very bad day. When I heard that Johanna’s story was coming out, I couldn’t wait to read it. I’d finally learn her “why” and maybe even start to understand her.
And I did. You know how we need someone to lean on, but sometimes we're too proud to ask? That's Johanna's story and it's both heart-breaking and heart-mending.
You’ll love this book if you:
* love drama (women’s fiction) that touches your heart,
* are facing a hard situation and feel that no one understands,
* have fragile family relationships.
* need a story of hope -- right now.
This book is a "standalone," meaning you don’t have to read the others in the series to understand everything. (But I think you'll love the others, too.) I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book with no obligation to post a review.
The Thatcher Sisters series, described as “'Little Women' gone wrong,” recounts the fragile relationship between three sisters and the hard, real-life problems that drove them apart. Vogt’s newest release is the story of the oldest sister, Johanna Thatcher.
Johanna takes her responsibility as first-born very seriously. We all know someone who’s a serious, over-achieving organizer, right? Johanna makes it an art form. She reminds me of Jethro Gibbs (NCIS) on a very bad day. When I heard that Johanna’s story was coming out, I couldn’t wait to read it. I’d finally learn her “why” and maybe even start to understand her.
And I did. You know how we need someone to lean on, but sometimes we're too proud to ask? That's Johanna's story and it's both heart-breaking and heart-mending.
You’ll love this book if you:
* love drama (women’s fiction) that touches your heart,
* are facing a hard situation and feel that no one understands,
* have fragile family relationships.
* need a story of hope -- right now.
This book is a "standalone," meaning you don’t have to read the others in the series to understand everything. (But I think you'll love the others, too.) I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book with no obligation to post a review.
September 11, 2020
This turned out to be my favorite book out the three Thatcher Sister books. I did not think I would, since Johanna, the oldest sister, was sometimes not very likeable in the first books. BUT...her growth during her challenging circumstances really got to me. I loved how Johanna softened and how she was able to let people in and care for her during some rough times. I was captivated by the character arc and the hope of a good future. Such good writing!
May 8, 2020
The Best We’ve Been is an entertaining and well written romance. This book is a great addition to the Thatcher Sisters series. A great plot with believable characters. I have loved the entire series but this is definitely my favorite book. I really hate to see this series end. I received an arc from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.
April 20, 2020
The lives of the three Thatcher sisters, Johanna, Jillian, and Payton take another complex turn when Johanna finds herself pregnant, unwed, and not on speaking terms with ex-fiancé Beckett, the baby’s father. As each sister takes in the news and struggles with it in her own way, each one finds they must do some soul searching and come to terms with how the pregnancy will affect their life and their family relationships.
This book is an emotional story filled with struggles of family, faith, marriage, and so much more. The girls find out that life is what happens when you least expect it. I struggled in order to like Johanna’s character. She is controlling and comes across as cold, a bit selfish and uncaring for a great deal of the book. I didn’t get to like her and understand her better until the later part of the story. However, the book was definitely worth the read. Solid story for readers of women’s fiction and contemporary fiction!
This copy was received from Tyndale House and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The above thoughts and opinions are wholly my own.
This book is an emotional story filled with struggles of family, faith, marriage, and so much more. The girls find out that life is what happens when you least expect it. I struggled in order to like Johanna’s character. She is controlling and comes across as cold, a bit selfish and uncaring for a great deal of the book. I didn’t get to like her and understand her better until the later part of the story. However, the book was definitely worth the read. Solid story for readers of women’s fiction and contemporary fiction!
This copy was received from Tyndale House and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The above thoughts and opinions are wholly my own.
March 2, 2020
This is the last of the Thatcher Sisters series, and let me just say "I want more!". I want to know what happens next in so many of the story lines in this book.
This book is Johanna's story. She is a tough one but finds herself in an even tougher situation than she ever thought she would be in. She wants control of her life, like she has always had, but now feels she has lost all control and must experience things she never planned.
This book takes an honest look at the feelings and consequences of lives that don't always turn out as expected. Our faith and family are support systems but we have to experience many growing pains to get where we need to be in our hearts and minds.
Beth Vogt never fails to write thought provoking family stories. I always gain new insights when I read her books. I very much recommend this one!.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book is Johanna's story. She is a tough one but finds herself in an even tougher situation than she ever thought she would be in. She wants control of her life, like she has always had, but now feels she has lost all control and must experience things she never planned.
This book takes an honest look at the feelings and consequences of lives that don't always turn out as expected. Our faith and family are support systems but we have to experience many growing pains to get where we need to be in our hearts and minds.
Beth Vogt never fails to write thought provoking family stories. I always gain new insights when I read her books. I very much recommend this one!.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 9, 2020
The Thatcher Sisters series is one of my favorite series, and I felt this final installment was the best. That's a bit surprising since I didn't care much for Johanna in the first two books. As the author revealed the emotions and feelings Johanna had been carrying with her, some since childhood, my heart hurt for her. I loved that the sisters fought for their relationship, unwilling to let it fall apart. This was a good reminder of how important family is and that we should be there for each other, even when we may not agree or even like each other at times. It was also good to see what was going on in Jilllian's and Payton's lives.
This was a wonderfully written, heart warming story that you don't want to miss out on reading.
This was a wonderfully written, heart warming story that you don't want to miss out on reading.
June 15, 2020
Heartbreaking and heartwarming
My rating is 4.5 stars
Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster!
Having read the previous books in The Thatchter Sisters series, I had already formed an opinion of Johanna. Harsh. Rigid. Driven. Selfish. Closed off. Not exactly my favorite of the girls. Now I was able to find out why.
Confession time! Despite the prologue telling what happened when she was a child and had been so hurt by her parents, I didn't love Johanna right away. And I doubt I was supposed to. But don't worry, by the conclusion my feelings towards her warmed up. She still isn't my favorite sister but I do have high hopes for her now.
I've discovered that as I read books by Beth K. Vogt, I feel like she has been eavesdropping on my conversations with my sisters! The struggles these women have in their relationship with one another and in their perceptions of how their parents treated them when they were children are realistic and poignant. I probably relate best to Jillian, being the middle sister myself. I especially relate to the pain she experienced in learning Johanna's secret as it mirrors similar struggles in my own life.
One of the things that struck me as I read is how so often our life choices are ones that if they are good for us, will hurt others. In getting my way, someone else has to concede. And while sacrifice in some circumstances is needed, it isn't always the answer. Sometimes, the solution is coming to an agreement together.
As with the other stories in the series, The Best We've Been showed the lives and perspectives of all three sisters, though only Johanna's was written in the first person. It was effective and less confusing than if all the perspectives were told that way.
New believers, Peyton and Jillian struggle with their faith when their lives haven't automatically become perfect. Jillian certainly struggled with that the most. Married to an unbeliever who didn't support her dream, she was crushed. Poor Geoff tried so hard to love her and understand yet his own pain kept him from supporting her as she needed.
Peyton's husband Zach was a believer and like all good Christian husbands, brought her to a Bible study. Which should be a really good thing and yet this ended up being a major area of trouble for her. Feeling judged for what she didn't know, afraid to speak for fear of looking stupid, she didn't even tell Zach her struggles. There were some humorous moments when we saw her thoughts as she freaked out and tried to navigate this strange new world! These were some of my favorite moments.
Themes of trust and hope and family fill the pages of this touching story. While there were loose ends - not all the unbelievers became Christians, not all the relationships were healed - like in real life - the ending was satisfactory and appropriate. I would love to see more of what happens next and hope there will be another book that picks up their lives from here.
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
My rating is 4.5 stars
Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster!
Having read the previous books in The Thatchter Sisters series, I had already formed an opinion of Johanna. Harsh. Rigid. Driven. Selfish. Closed off. Not exactly my favorite of the girls. Now I was able to find out why.
Confession time! Despite the prologue telling what happened when she was a child and had been so hurt by her parents, I didn't love Johanna right away. And I doubt I was supposed to. But don't worry, by the conclusion my feelings towards her warmed up. She still isn't my favorite sister but I do have high hopes for her now.
I've discovered that as I read books by Beth K. Vogt, I feel like she has been eavesdropping on my conversations with my sisters! The struggles these women have in their relationship with one another and in their perceptions of how their parents treated them when they were children are realistic and poignant. I probably relate best to Jillian, being the middle sister myself. I especially relate to the pain she experienced in learning Johanna's secret as it mirrors similar struggles in my own life.
One of the things that struck me as I read is how so often our life choices are ones that if they are good for us, will hurt others. In getting my way, someone else has to concede. And while sacrifice in some circumstances is needed, it isn't always the answer. Sometimes, the solution is coming to an agreement together.
As with the other stories in the series, The Best We've Been showed the lives and perspectives of all three sisters, though only Johanna's was written in the first person. It was effective and less confusing than if all the perspectives were told that way.
New believers, Peyton and Jillian struggle with their faith when their lives haven't automatically become perfect. Jillian certainly struggled with that the most. Married to an unbeliever who didn't support her dream, she was crushed. Poor Geoff tried so hard to love her and understand yet his own pain kept him from supporting her as she needed.
Peyton's husband Zach was a believer and like all good Christian husbands, brought her to a Bible study. Which should be a really good thing and yet this ended up being a major area of trouble for her. Feeling judged for what she didn't know, afraid to speak for fear of looking stupid, she didn't even tell Zach her struggles. There were some humorous moments when we saw her thoughts as she freaked out and tried to navigate this strange new world! These were some of my favorite moments.
Themes of trust and hope and family fill the pages of this touching story. While there were loose ends - not all the unbelievers became Christians, not all the relationships were healed - like in real life - the ending was satisfactory and appropriate. I would love to see more of what happens next and hope there will be another book that picks up their lives from here.
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
June 1, 2020
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
The Best We've Been is the third and final book in Beth K. Vogt's Thatcher Sisters series. While you will certainly get more backstory about the other sisters and their relationship by reading the previous book, this can be read as a standalone as well. This is personally the first I had read, and I found enough was given that I did not feel lost (though I do look forward to going back and reading the previous books as well).
Reading reviews from others that have read the rest of the series, Johanna- the lead character in this book- is the least likable of the sisters. Perhaps you've read the others and feel the same. To be honest, when the story started I really didn't care for her too much either. However, the more I read and the more I got to understand why she acted the way she did... the more I found myself relating very much to her character. Johanna is a control freak. She likes things to go her way and as such doesn't ask or want help from anyone. While my personality is overall quite different from Johanna, that need to have control... oh, that I very much understand! And sometimes the only way that us in control people can let others in to help is to have something thrown at us that leaves us no option. That is just what Johanna faces in this book... and I loved watching her grow throughout it.
This particular book reads different than many in the Christian fiction genre in that the lead character is not a Christian. We do see perspectives from the other two sisters who are new believers so there certainly is some Christian content, but is definitely unique in that way. I did hope to see Johanna move toward a relationship with God in the story, but I felt that it actually felt very authentic in the way it was written. These sisters were not perfect, their faith was not perfect... but that is so often the case in real life too.
Overall, it was a great read and one that fans of both Christian fiction and more mainstream fiction could likewise enjoy.
While I do not generally like to give any information about books aside from what is given on the back cover info, I do feel like I want to offer a little warning that I personally wish I had been given as this book does deal with a subject that might be sensitive to some readers. If you do not want spoilers, stop reading now.
The Best We've Been is the third and final book in Beth K. Vogt's Thatcher Sisters series. While you will certainly get more backstory about the other sisters and their relationship by reading the previous book, this can be read as a standalone as well. This is personally the first I had read, and I found enough was given that I did not feel lost (though I do look forward to going back and reading the previous books as well).
Reading reviews from others that have read the rest of the series, Johanna- the lead character in this book- is the least likable of the sisters. Perhaps you've read the others and feel the same. To be honest, when the story started I really didn't care for her too much either. However, the more I read and the more I got to understand why she acted the way she did... the more I found myself relating very much to her character. Johanna is a control freak. She likes things to go her way and as such doesn't ask or want help from anyone. While my personality is overall quite different from Johanna, that need to have control... oh, that I very much understand! And sometimes the only way that us in control people can let others in to help is to have something thrown at us that leaves us no option. That is just what Johanna faces in this book... and I loved watching her grow throughout it.
This particular book reads different than many in the Christian fiction genre in that the lead character is not a Christian. We do see perspectives from the other two sisters who are new believers so there certainly is some Christian content, but is definitely unique in that way. I did hope to see Johanna move toward a relationship with God in the story, but I felt that it actually felt very authentic in the way it was written. These sisters were not perfect, their faith was not perfect... but that is so often the case in real life too.
Overall, it was a great read and one that fans of both Christian fiction and more mainstream fiction could likewise enjoy.
While I do not generally like to give any information about books aside from what is given on the back cover info, I do feel like I want to offer a little warning that I personally wish I had been given as this book does deal with a subject that might be sensitive to some readers. If you do not want spoilers, stop reading now.
November 22, 2020
It's been a while since I read the first in this series, but recently read both the second and this finale, and this story was the best of the series. Johanna is such a mess, despite her efforts toward perfection, that I couldn't wait for her story, and I was not disappointed. Few books have kept my attention like this since 2020 started rearing its ugly head! Although the author leaves future events up to the imagination, probably the thing I liked least about the book, there were some beautiful and even teary moments that make this reeeeally close to five stars, which I give sparingly. Kinda thinking the Thatcher sisters need one more go after this, because their lives were just really starting by the end of the book.
May 5, 2020
A poignant conclusion to a well-written series. The Thatcher Sisters are unique and yet united by a common thread--the loss of a sibling. Beth Vogt portrayed each sister with complexities and strengths not often found in the Christian fiction market. Her incredible ability to dive into the "hard stuff" of life and craft a novel that resonates with readers is obvious in The Best We've Been. Johanna is a challenging secondary character in previous novels, and yet I was so eager to read her story because I knew it was going to be great. The obstacles the characters wrestled with, the questions they asked, and the overwhelming theme of loving one another make this book a new favorite of mine.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.
June 3, 2020
I enjoyed reading all three books in this series. The Best We've Been is a heart-tugger. I got teary-eyed a couple of times and yet found it hard to stop reading. One of the topics covered in this book was infertility. Having experienced this myself, I can testify that Beth handled it perfectly in this novel. This book is realistic. I loved the ending because it's also realistic and left room for hope.
November 21, 2021
Love love and love this story!! A beautiful reminder that even in the midst of unforeseen circumstances there can be tremendous personal growth and blessings that we never saw coming. We just have to be willing to trust God and roll with the changes.
August 4, 2025
Loved the series. Loved how everyone and everything came together at the end.
April 13, 2020
I'd deprived myself of so much because I'd looked...and seen the wrong thing.
Vogt’s conclusion to the Thatcher Sister’s series is an emotional story for all three siblings that I'm glad to have experienced.
I’m not even sure how to break it down where it makes sense but one of the things that moved me the most was Payton’s experience when she went to her first Bible study. I can vividly remember being a new Christian and when I was around mature Christians it was easy to feel ‘stupid’ when they were talking about biblical things. Payton’s struggle reminded me I need to be sensitive to others who may not know the ‘lingo’ and that maybe I need to stop using so much church slang.
Jillian’s journey is ongoing and I can’t say I’m completely satisfied with where she and her husband ended up. It’s like real life though. Sometimes we have to focus on the present, not what we are wishing for in the future. They settled in a good place for now but I sure would like to know what happens in a year or two. *hint hint ;-)
Johanna….oh, Johanna! In the first two books, I didn’t like her at all. I was seriously wondering how the author was going to make me care about her but oh, boy, did she! Not until I went through the ringer again though. I was grumbling under my breath about a decision she was facing but then the beauty of Vogt’s story telling brought hope and love into Jo’s life. Later the author showed me how a single misunderstood moment can have a devastating impact on a young girl. My heart ached for Johanna and I was brought to tears when she finally realized the truth of the situation so long ago. I think she is another character that needs a sequel one day. ;-)
The Best We’ve Been is one of the best books I’ve read this year. It is a top read in 2020 for sure! Anyone who enjoys family drama and complex characters facing challenging life circumstances will find promise in this book. I recommend reading the series in order for the full affect.
I was provided an electronic copy of the book from the publisher (Tyndale) via Net galley. I was under no obligation to write a review. No compensation has been received.
Vogt’s conclusion to the Thatcher Sister’s series is an emotional story for all three siblings that I'm glad to have experienced.
I’m not even sure how to break it down where it makes sense but one of the things that moved me the most was Payton’s experience when she went to her first Bible study. I can vividly remember being a new Christian and when I was around mature Christians it was easy to feel ‘stupid’ when they were talking about biblical things. Payton’s struggle reminded me I need to be sensitive to others who may not know the ‘lingo’ and that maybe I need to stop using so much church slang.
Jillian’s journey is ongoing and I can’t say I’m completely satisfied with where she and her husband ended up. It’s like real life though. Sometimes we have to focus on the present, not what we are wishing for in the future. They settled in a good place for now but I sure would like to know what happens in a year or two. *hint hint ;-)
Johanna….oh, Johanna! In the first two books, I didn’t like her at all. I was seriously wondering how the author was going to make me care about her but oh, boy, did she! Not until I went through the ringer again though. I was grumbling under my breath about a decision she was facing but then the beauty of Vogt’s story telling brought hope and love into Jo’s life. Later the author showed me how a single misunderstood moment can have a devastating impact on a young girl. My heart ached for Johanna and I was brought to tears when she finally realized the truth of the situation so long ago. I think she is another character that needs a sequel one day. ;-)
The Best We’ve Been is one of the best books I’ve read this year. It is a top read in 2020 for sure! Anyone who enjoys family drama and complex characters facing challenging life circumstances will find promise in this book. I recommend reading the series in order for the full affect.
I was provided an electronic copy of the book from the publisher (Tyndale) via Net galley. I was under no obligation to write a review. No compensation has been received.
July 27, 2024
This kind of book is not my cup of tea
May 6, 2020
Friction between family members is all too real! Readers will easily fall in love with this family!
After discovering her fiancé cheated on her, Johanna Thatcher has decided to protect her heart at all costs. Things get more complicated when she finds out she is pregnant. Over the years, friction between her and her sisters, Jillian and Payton, has gone up and down leaving their fragile friendship hanging in the balance. When the family finds out about Johanna’s pregnancy, it causes extra tension between the sisters as this is something Jillian has wanted and may not ever be able to have. To make matters worse, Johanna doesn’t even know if she wants to keep the baby. Each sister has her own life troubles to deal with along with the others and through it all they have to decide what their definition of family is and what they are willing to keep the family together.
When I started this I didn’t realize it was the third in a series; had I read the others I might have understood a little more of the backstory, but since I didn’t realize that until after finished the book, I’m happy to say it didn’t take anything away from the story for me and reads easily as a standalone. There was enough about each character that I felt like I knew them and had a feel for what they were going through. Johanna had a big character development throughout the story and I enjoyed watching her grow and change. Several of the milestone moments the Thatcher sisters go through can be heart wrenching, but in such a good way. I loved the way the story shaped each story of the sisters to bring the whole family together. There is a strong faith element with several characters but nothing that was too pushy and might turn a reader away from the story if that wasn’t what they were looking for. The target audience is going to find this a fast, enjoyable and touching read. With the little glimpses of Jillian and Payton’s lives, I want to go get the others in the series so I can fully know and understand the Thatcher sisters and all they have gone through the be who they are at this point in their stories. Even though this is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone, I do feel I would have gotten even more out of it if I had read the first two. Throughout the novel, Beth Vogt brings a sense of hope and encouragement for readers to cling to. I would recommend this to readers that enjoy a heart touching story with hope, laughter, love and so much more they can relate to.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
After discovering her fiancé cheated on her, Johanna Thatcher has decided to protect her heart at all costs. Things get more complicated when she finds out she is pregnant. Over the years, friction between her and her sisters, Jillian and Payton, has gone up and down leaving their fragile friendship hanging in the balance. When the family finds out about Johanna’s pregnancy, it causes extra tension between the sisters as this is something Jillian has wanted and may not ever be able to have. To make matters worse, Johanna doesn’t even know if she wants to keep the baby. Each sister has her own life troubles to deal with along with the others and through it all they have to decide what their definition of family is and what they are willing to keep the family together.
When I started this I didn’t realize it was the third in a series; had I read the others I might have understood a little more of the backstory, but since I didn’t realize that until after finished the book, I’m happy to say it didn’t take anything away from the story for me and reads easily as a standalone. There was enough about each character that I felt like I knew them and had a feel for what they were going through. Johanna had a big character development throughout the story and I enjoyed watching her grow and change. Several of the milestone moments the Thatcher sisters go through can be heart wrenching, but in such a good way. I loved the way the story shaped each story of the sisters to bring the whole family together. There is a strong faith element with several characters but nothing that was too pushy and might turn a reader away from the story if that wasn’t what they were looking for. The target audience is going to find this a fast, enjoyable and touching read. With the little glimpses of Jillian and Payton’s lives, I want to go get the others in the series so I can fully know and understand the Thatcher sisters and all they have gone through the be who they are at this point in their stories. Even though this is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone, I do feel I would have gotten even more out of it if I had read the first two. Throughout the novel, Beth Vogt brings a sense of hope and encouragement for readers to cling to. I would recommend this to readers that enjoy a heart touching story with hope, laughter, love and so much more they can relate to.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
June 5, 2020
I don’t typically read women’s fiction.
I am, after all, a thirty-year-old man. I’m not the target demographic. And yet, when the publisher contacted me to ask if I’d consider reading this book, I took one look at the synopsis and I was hooked. This wasn’t romance, although romance was there. It was a great big relational drama that told the overlapping stories of the individual members of a single family. (My wife: Of course you liked it, you big sap. It’s all about life being story.)
And so, I suppose, I am guilty of enjoying women’s fiction. (It’s like women’s bathrooms…sometimes they’re so much better and uniquely decorated than men’s.) The Best We’ve Been is the third book in the Thatcher Sisters trilogy and focuses on oldest sister Johanna. The first two books deal with the two other Thatcher sisters, but now it’s Johanna’s time to shine—or, rather, be uncomfortably put into the spotlight as she navigates the aftermath of her fiance’s infidelity.
Oh. And she’s pregnant.
To say much more would do a disservice to a deeply-layered story that manages to drop a new reader into book three of three and yet make the reader feel comfortable and at home. The subplots deal with the other sisters and their lives. One is dealing with a rather serious disagreement with their spouse about the future of their lives. The other is navigating the waters of being a baby Christian.
The tendency in relational dramas is to give everybody something dramatic and then intensify it. In a lot of genres, fiction represents reality pushed to the extreme. But The Best We’ve Been avoids kitschy soap-opera melodrama and comes across as real and relatable. The relational issues that Beth Vogt explores are all too common—even if they’re rarely spoken about aloud. It gives us a window to the soul, our own and others, and allows us to safely explore some pretty serious topics.
It’s very much along the lines of shows like This is Us or Parenthood. It’s the story of a family—not a sitcom or a thriller, though the elements of those things can be there. It’s people living out everyday stories, stories that often go unnoticed in real life. The Best We’ve Been forces us to consider the untold stories of our friends and neighbors and even ourselves. A superbly-written character study, The Best We’ve Been will draw you in with its complex and true-to-life characters and leave you pondering your own relationships. That’s the power of Story.
I am, after all, a thirty-year-old man. I’m not the target demographic. And yet, when the publisher contacted me to ask if I’d consider reading this book, I took one look at the synopsis and I was hooked. This wasn’t romance, although romance was there. It was a great big relational drama that told the overlapping stories of the individual members of a single family. (My wife: Of course you liked it, you big sap. It’s all about life being story.)
And so, I suppose, I am guilty of enjoying women’s fiction. (It’s like women’s bathrooms…sometimes they’re so much better and uniquely decorated than men’s.) The Best We’ve Been is the third book in the Thatcher Sisters trilogy and focuses on oldest sister Johanna. The first two books deal with the two other Thatcher sisters, but now it’s Johanna’s time to shine—or, rather, be uncomfortably put into the spotlight as she navigates the aftermath of her fiance’s infidelity.
Oh. And she’s pregnant.
To say much more would do a disservice to a deeply-layered story that manages to drop a new reader into book three of three and yet make the reader feel comfortable and at home. The subplots deal with the other sisters and their lives. One is dealing with a rather serious disagreement with their spouse about the future of their lives. The other is navigating the waters of being a baby Christian.
The tendency in relational dramas is to give everybody something dramatic and then intensify it. In a lot of genres, fiction represents reality pushed to the extreme. But The Best We’ve Been avoids kitschy soap-opera melodrama and comes across as real and relatable. The relational issues that Beth Vogt explores are all too common—even if they’re rarely spoken about aloud. It gives us a window to the soul, our own and others, and allows us to safely explore some pretty serious topics.
It’s very much along the lines of shows like This is Us or Parenthood. It’s the story of a family—not a sitcom or a thriller, though the elements of those things can be there. It’s people living out everyday stories, stories that often go unnoticed in real life. The Best We’ve Been forces us to consider the untold stories of our friends and neighbors and even ourselves. A superbly-written character study, The Best We’ve Been will draw you in with its complex and true-to-life characters and leave you pondering your own relationships. That’s the power of Story.
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