Fate

by Natasha D. Frazier

Melanie Bennett and Detective Brian Morris met over a year ago when he solved her best friend's murder case, and now Nashville's annual Christmas festivities have them crossing paths again, could it be fate?

Melanie Bennett has spent the last six months in therapy to erase the self-assigned blame and eradicate the night terrors that plagued her at every attempt to close her eyes after witnessing her best friend's murder. The Christmas season always had a way of lifting her spirits, and this year is no different. The spark within her to live again couldn't have come at a better time when she and Detective Brian Morris are reacquainted, but first, she must believe that she deserves happiness.

Will the circumstances of how they met prevent Melanie from taking a chance on love?

Brian was drawn to Melanie when he first laid eyes on her over a year ago; he wanted to ask her out, but the timing was all wrong. Expressing interest in her when she'd just lost her best friend was tacky, but fate dealt him another opportunity when he walked into her hair salon delivering flyers for the annual stuff the cruiser toy drive a year later. Though Brian desires love, will his unresolved issues with his mother get in the way?

Every moment spent with one another can only be described as fate - a power beyond human control. Will this Christmas season bring about the healing and love both Melanie and Brian crave?

Fate is book 2 in the Perfect Time for Love Series (Sweet Christian Romance).

Genres: Contemporary

212 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 30, 2020

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

FATE is the second book in The Perfect Time for Love series. I loved everything about this beautiful story and even though I didn’t read the first book in the series, I had no trouble following the story. Natasha D. Frazier has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go. All the characters in FATE are very relatable and not perfect at all. You can’t help but feel each emotion that they are dealing with. When one of them was happy, I was happy. When Melanie was crying, I was crying too. I love when an author does that to their readers.

FATE re introduces Brian to Melanie! Brian was the detective working the case when Melanie’s friend Is found dead. He walks into her salon one day and both are surprised by the sparks that fly. Make yourself a yummy hot drink, get your favorite blanket and get on the couch. FATE is an awesome way to spend the afternoon or evening. Once you start, you won’t be able to put it down and will find yourself cheering for these two as they try to navigate their way through a very different and unique situation. I really wanted to reach in to this story and give Melanie a hug over and over again. Natasha D. Frazer will pull you in from the very first page and never let you go! Now I’m praying that she is working on the next book in this series because I really want more.

FATE is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Natasha D. Frazer was taking us and what would happen to Melanie and Brian. There is so much heart in Natasha’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. The very real situations that come up in this book could be taken right out of the newspapers today. I could totally see The Perfect Time for Love series becoming a television series and I would love to watch it. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kaitlyn S. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was in the mood for a light-hearted, easy-to-read story when I requested this one, and that's a rare mood for me to be in, my friends. I typically prefer novels that have more of a point than just detailing a romance, and that's what this story was. So for all you readers who don't particularly care for a romance novel, this one would NOT be for you :D Unless you're in a rare mood, which I was, and so I happened to enjoy this story to a degree.

The characters were well written and apparently had been introduced in another book . . . that I haven't read at all. But I really wasn't lost, as there were numerous mentions to the other characters and a lot of explanations. I think it might have gotten annoying if I had read the other books before, but since I hadn't, I appreciated them.

The writing style felt a bit stilted to me, but I haven't read any of this authors other works, so I don't know if that's just her style, or if it's just this book. There was a lot of explaining and narrating and some of the dialogue felt a bit unnatural, but that could just be me and that is just my personal opinion -- you may not mind it.

The story line mainly consisted of a romance, building between two people who had met before, and that was interesting, but not really my normal cuppa tea. I mean, I read the book extremely quickly, but still, I do like to see some depth, and this story didn't really have any *shrugs*. I do see where this opinion could be mine alone, though, and I didn't *dislike* it, so there's that.

I did find how Melissa always wanted Brian to fulfill her needs and meet her desires a bit annoying. I mean, he's bending over backwards to make her feel cherished, and she's all hands-out-keeping-him-at-arms-distance, and, yeah. That was annoying.

And then the climax was coming up, and boom! There it was, and then it just faded away, and there was almost no point for it to even be there.

I did enjoy the sweetness of the romance in itself, and the cleanest of it. I didn't have to skip or skim any scenes, and nothing made me extremely uncomfortable.

I probably will only read this book again if that rare mood ^^^ strikes again, but it was a sweet story that was perfect for Valentines Day and also featured Christmas, so yay for a double holiday, am I right?

I am thankful to the author for gifting me a copy of this book to read and review! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[maiaisreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

#BookReview: FATE by Natasha D. Frazier

I was unaware that Fate is the second book in the Perfect Time for Love Series but it can be read as a standalone. This is my first book by the author and I like it. The book is set at Christmas time but I read Christmas themed books all year round. I didn’t mind it here and it makes me look forward to Christmas.

I enjoyed the romance but I also love that faith is one of the main points. I love it when they pray and do church activities. Whatever they do as a couple makes it more meaningful to me because I know that they have God with them.

Brian was attracted to Melanie when they met a year ago but he didn’t pursue her due to the circumstance. It seems like fate brought them together again and this time Brian wants to grab the opportunity.

Oh Brian is so cute and wears his heart on his sleeves. I love how he spoils Mel and wants to make her happy. He is such a sweet man. The romance is short but I didn’t feel that it was rushed. I love Mel’s happy disposition despite her issues. Brian’s are very nice. Meeting the parents can be nerve racking. It also talks about healing and forgiveness. There is a twist that is interesting but somehow led them to explore more about their relationship. It’s such a sweet story. 4 stars

Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always like reading Romance stories and add in a Christmas time season and I am excited about a book. Natasha D. Frazier is a new to me author. Fate is Book 2 in the Perfect Time for Love series.

Detective Brian Morris was the Detective assigned to help solve the murder case of Melanie Bennett's
best friend. The 2 had met over a year ago, when he was working on the case. They lost contact with each other, as both were focused on life situations. Fast forward a year and they meet again at Nashville's Christmas events. Melanie always enjoys the Christmas Season as it brings her joy. Brian Morris was attracted to Melanie at first sight, but didn't feel the timing was right a year ago. The meetup now seems to be leading to something. Has FATE brought them together? Are Melanie and Brian both ready to move forward in life and help each other heal from past traumas and life events?

I really enjoyed this book. It did start a little slow, probably because it is book 2. Once I got into the Storyline, I couldn't put the book down. The characters are really interesting and they both are excited about meeting up again. Natasha D. Frazier has a great style of writing that as a reader it was wonderful to be drawn into the book. I really like how the author bought Faith into the storyline, a good character for any relationship. WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars



Melanie Bennett is a salon owner. She had the unfortunate experience of witnessing a traumatic event in the past involving her friend. The loss still affects her, even after two years. The crime was a tragic one that shattered Melanie with issues. She later found her healing through therapy and focusing on her business.

Detective Brian Morris is a detective for the Nashville Metro Police Department. He met Melanie from a tragic case a few months ago, and given the circumstances, he knew it would have been in bad taste to ask her out, even if he felt something that day.

Their common denominator is a tragic one and, even though Brian felt a "connection" with Melanie, God's answer was a "not yet."
That first encounter did not yield anything until a chance encounter brought both characters' to each other's orbit again. This time around, Brian did not hold back. Brian is braver and willing to take a chance to see if something can come about between him and Melanie.

I cannot stress the importance of mental health. Unfortunately, some people had experienced trauma in their past. The best we as outsiders do is support and empower these people in whatever way we can to help them get back to their routine. I appreciate the author discussing this a bit more in the book and showed how far Melissa has come with this healing type.
Note: I did not like what happened between her therapist at one point - and to think that she is supposed to be a professional. It does get sorted out, but I was in shock with what was said when I first read it. I was pretty much affected - enraged and upset - to be exact.

Aside from therapy, God led Melanie back to His kingdom through Brian. God used Brian to show Melanie the love around her and the trust she can give. These people empower her to take on difficult situations in the book, and it was good Melanie listened to those instincts and good-intentioned friends. She lifted each doubt or problem to God those scenes, and it all got "sorted out" at the end.

One thing to note is that certain situations were not answered or clarified by the author. This may leave the reader feeling "unresolved" to some like myself, who will want answers. Missing pieces like what happened further to Melanie's "walk-in client" or a backstory of Melanie's past would have been great to discuss quickly or "determined" before the ending. There were hints of danger, but there was no follow-through. I was a bit lost on those incidents, so I focused on what present - what Brian and Melanie's friendship was evolving into - something deep and more meaningful.

Overall, Fate is a sweet, clean romance, religious and thoughtful book. Although there were "outside conflicts", the author focuses on Melanie and Brian's many internal struggles and what they did to cope - prayer and each other. These inner battles provide uncertainty to the story. The book will make readers feel for the main characters, even if some backstory was lacking. Readers will have to piece things together on their own if they will not be reading Book 1. The main thing is honesty, open communication, seeking the proper channels for further healing, and trusting in God. Readers wanting clean, easy, and romantic stories will surely gobble this book up.

[Christi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Renewed connections is always a heartwarming troupe that sets a heartwarming foundation, especially when two people meet under unimaginable circumstances. Such is the case with Melanie and Brian.

Melanie is witness to a tragic event involving her best friend two years ago and it is an experience that continues to haunt her. Brian is the detective from the Nashville Metro Police department that was assigned to her friends case and was there to see Melanie through one of the hardest times of her life.

Despite meeting under the worst of circumstances, they both felt a connection between them, and decide to see where this renewed accord will take them.

There is some tough subject matter discussed in this book, and moments of frustration for myself that, after reading other reviews, I now know I am not alone in feeling. I will not go into great detail about what these things are but will say that I was left with several unanswered questions and, at times, was upset with how certain things were handled, especially when it comes to the mental aspect of the story. I also saw several unresolved issues and story lines that weren't complete and felt like the book overall was lacking.

I did, however, love the faith aspect, and Melanie and Brian's relationship, though I did crave depth. With such a heavy narrative I was expecting more expanse. "Where is the back story?" was a question I asked myself throughout my reading time, and I hate to admit that I closed the book feeling jipped, but it could be my fault for not reading the first book in the series? The jury is still out on that one, especially since I haven't read the first book, and I never felt lost when I was reading this book.

All in all, it is a sweet, easy read with clean romance and faith that does not feel preachy, but has an honest, warm, and loving feel. The author's writing style did feel a bit stunted to me but this being my first book by Natasha D. Frazier I can't tell if that's for the purpose of this story, or if that's just her writing style, but as a whole it was a decent read.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for JustRead Tours and read through Kindle Unlimited. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.

[Robin Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story opens with a sentence—nightmares and death and best friend—that grabs the reader! Then falls flat. I kept waiting for an explanation of what happened to Natalie, but it never came.
Whatever happened, it was a) apparently crime related—thus the investigation and the presence of Detective Brian Morris—and b) it traumatized Melanie.
Who hasn’t experienced trauma of some kind in their life? I appreciated the author’s sensitivity to Melanie’s caution. The twist with her therapist [SPOILER] was a highlight…
Honestly, I felt like this story read like a diary. A running tab of what was happening from day to day, some scenes even moment to moment. I kept waiting for some action or conflict, but there really wasn’t any.
That said, I enjoyed Brian and Melanie’s romance. With her reticence many guys would have backed off, but Brian didn’t and I applaud him for that.
This story has good “bones” but was bare. Adding some “meat” would have made it so much more engaging.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
THREE FEATHERS

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, Fate, AUTHOR, Natasha D. Frazier, Perfect Time for Love Series, Kairos, JustRead Publicity

[Jennia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fate asks the important question, what are you willing to risk for love? Melanie has suffered a personal devastating loss and still feels the impact on a daily basis. Surrounded by supportive friends and devoted to her successful salon, on the surface, Melanie might look like she’s still holding it all together. However, she realizes she has a long way to go to deal with her loss as well as come to terms with her own feelings. After she finds a therapist she can truly open up to, she knows she’s on the right path.
Brian first met Melanie under less than ideal circumstances but knows what he first felt for her was real. When he meets her again, he isn’t going to let the opportunity go to waste. Despite some hesitancy on her part, they gradually form a relationship, though Melanie has some solid reasons for not diving in headfirst.
This book is the second in a series, which I did not read, and while I felt clued into the main events and the characters, I think that extra background would have made this a more enjoyable reading experience. Instead of seeing major plot points first-hand and having them emotionally resonate, I relied on the Cliff Notes’ version provided in Fate. With that said, I found this to be a fulfilling romance with some genuine tension and a solid reason for one of the characters to question entering the relationship. So many romances create their drama over simple miscommunication, but that isn’t the case in Fate; Melanie faces an actual dilemma that puts her in a difficult situation, figuring out just what she should do.
3.5 stars with my rating somewhat influenced by not having read book one in this series. Thank you to JustRead Tours for the complimentary advance copy. This did not impact my review.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I agreed to read and review Fate by Natasha Frazier without having a clue what it was about. Can I just say that this book made me really feel my age? As a senior citizen I am no longer a fan of romance novels for the sake of romance and that is pretty much the content of this novel.

Honestly the story would appeal to younger readers who want a simple, easy to read tale with lots of romance. It is a clean read so parents would not object to their teen daughter reading it. In fact teens would probably love the frequent descriptions of how the characters were dressed, the dates they went on, and meals they ate, not to mention how many times Brian was described as “hot” by Melanie’s friend.

I did like the fact that the characters were both believers and it was evident by their actions and personal growth throughout the narrative. A surprise or two did add a bit of tension to the story and helped keep it interesting.

Although not exactly my personal cup of tea, I would recommend this book to younger readers who are looking for a book that is primarily romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet romance but I kept expecting something dangerous to happen. I haven't read book one and that probably would have helped since I didn't know what the situation was with her friend getting killed or if the bad guys were caught. The obstacles between them didn't seem too large and were easily resolved. The Christmas setting was magical and I liked the different activities they did to celebrate the season. I also liked that they both had a strong faith, discussed it and prayed often for guidance and wisdom. They also brought out the best in each other. There was a little bit about Brian's job as a detective and a couple things were left open-ended, which I wonder if might get addressed in the next book. You might enjoy it if you like sweet romances, especially at Christmas.

I received a free kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.

[Randi Sampson]

Fate is the second book in the Perfect Time for Love Series by Natasha D. Frazier. This is the first book that I had personally read by this author, and I thought it was just fine as a standalone. In Fate, we get to know Melanie Bennett and Detective Brian Morris. They were previously introduced to one another when he was investigating the murder of her best friend one year earlier.

Now, I love a good romantic suspense and a happy ending, but I do wonder sometimes how things would be if the couple weren't in the middle of something traumatic. I mean, making big life choices in the midst of trauma may be a little risky, right? This sweet romance answers the question of what would happen if they met under different circumstances. The book takes place at Christmastime, but if you ask me there is never a bad time for a little Christmas romance. It was a quick read with likeable characters and a good story that fans of sweet romances are sure to enjoy.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet Christian romance about new beginnings and God's timing.

The second book in a series, Melanie Bennett and Daren Morris met a year ago, but working through guilt and grief the timing wasn't right. As Nashville shimmers in preparation for Christmas, will Melanie be able to embrace the future in God's timing?

A sweet Christmas romance about God's faithfulness and timing. This was an enjoyable read, with strong Christian characters, I enjoyed their interaction, and Daren is pretty much the perfect man, with a stable job, strong faith, and he cooks!

A pleasant read, I liked it, but I felt like it had a lack of conflict that surprised me, because everything was going great, and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and it never really did in the way that I expected, and at times it felt more tell than show.

Overall, this was a sweet Christmas read, with strong faith, and likable characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Author Natasha D. Frazier has written a sweet holiday Christian romance that readers will enjoy. This story is a light festive and pretty quick read that’s about a woman whose husband is murdered and the detective that solves the case and their developing relationship. Although a fairly predictable read, the story is still enjoyable and even ties in a strong thread of faith throughout this sweet romance. Even though this is a second book in a series, it can still be read as a standalone and everything will make sense. Overall, readers will find this to be a heartwarming sweet romance.

Series: The Perfect Time for Love
Genre: sweet, Christian, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 30, 2020
Number of pages:

Other books in the series:
1-Kairos

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Lisa's Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the romance of two fictional characters, Melanie and Bryan. Their first encounter is when Melanie’s friend is found dead and Bryan is the police detective that works on the case. After the death causes so much trauma to Melanie she begins therapy with a wonderful counselor.

A year later, Bryan enters Melanie’s hair salon to drop off some fundraising pamphlets. She is taken by surprise, but they are both attracted to each other. Over time, they begin to date and find that they are perfect for one another.

When they know that they are really compatible and love each other’s company, Bryan invites her to his family’s Christmas dinner and celebration. Bryan’s parents welcome Melanie with graciousness and open arms. Everything seems great. The only problem is that Melanie and Bryan’s mother have a serious discussion in the kitchen.

Later, Melanie is avoiding Bryan and he doesn’t know why. She’s secretly contemplating what Bryan’s mother has revealed to her. Melanie hasn’t told Bryan that his mother is actually her counselor. The counselor tells Melanie that she now has a conflict of interest and she will have to choose between Bryan or coming to her for counseling.

Find out what Melanie decides to do next. Has fate brought them together or is the most important relationship that of her and the counselor?

This is a sweet, clean romance between two people who take seriously their Christian faith. It’s an easy read and very wholesome.

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie's and Brian's story is very sweet, relaxing read.

I loved the flow of the story. The characters were wonderful. I love how the author wove the little twists and turns into the story with such beauty and love. Their individual faith journeys was very inspiring.

Very relaxing and sweet read filled with hope.

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

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

If you’re looking for a quick and sweet romance with a strong faith thread, add Fate by Natasha D. Frazier to your list of options.

Melanie first met Brian while going through a trauma. Now, months later, they cross paths again and decide to see where their attraction leads. Brian is upfront with how he feels about Melanie, and she (mostly) responds in kind.

While this story is someone formulaic (as problems arise, they are quickly worked through and solved), I wanted to keep reading until this couple found their happily ever after. Frazier gives readers an uplifting, hope-filled read.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Michelle Lindo-Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie Bennett met Detective Brian Morris a year ago when he worked on her best friend's case. They meet again when he stops into her place of business. They renew their connection and that's where the story begins.
One of the things I enjoyed about this read is the author's ability to set up a scene. I felt as if I was there, enjoying a delicious piece of steak. That's how well she described it. I also loved how she addressed the use of a strong, black character seeking therapy. Melanie had faced horror in her past and sought the necessary help to overcome. There were lots of prayers and the characters faiths were evident. I think many will enjoy this quick and heartwarming read.
This is my first read from this author and I think her writing will get better with each work. I received an ARC in exchange fro my honest review.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great characters, I felt as if they were old friends. A great love story that begins with a tug at the heart. I enjoyed how much God was woven into the story, like a ray of sunshine in every page. The author does a wonderful job of taking the reader through the emotions that Melanie endure with the hurts in her life. I adored the relationship that was built and all the romantic dates, not to mention the scrumptious food. This story takes you on a welcoming adventure and leaves you with happiness and anticipation for the next book!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Tera L. Kirksey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fate(The Perfect Time for Love)

I loved Melissa and Brian's sweet romance story. It was so refreshing! Their chemistry was solidified by their common belief. I so loved their prayers. It was a fast paced romance but they knew exactly what they wanted. Their almost not expected to last moment became a mere distraction in their journey of love.
This author never disappoints. The music plugins were just perfect!

[Mary Calton Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Encouraging

I own the first book in the series but, decided to read this book first because I usually read Christmas connected books during part of December. I enjoy reading the author's art as she gives a dose of romance and a greater portion of faith. The author writes as if real people were interacting. I can visualize the story developing although a suspenseful point occurs to add a flare to the storyline.

[KAREN MCCRAW · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good from evil

Brian met Melanie underhorrible circumstances but still felt a connection. Melanie was devastated over the loss of her best friend and needed councilling. God brought them back together at the right time.

[Rosemary Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian and Meanies Story

This was a great Christian love story. Loved the characters and storyline. First time reading anything by this author. I will definitely be checking out her other books.

[Ellowyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first read by this author and I truly enjoyed this book. I will be reading more books by her.

[Yvonne Archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

Well written story of two people who met in the past under not great circumstances but met a year later and find a love they can't deny

[Shannan Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian and Melissa met over a year ago, but are now in a place where they're both individually wondering if they'll ever find the right person. There were some shocking things i read in the story, and it was filled with biblical truths and , wisdom and advice. It was a very enjoyable rad with a very interesting storyline. I loved every part of the book. It also normalizes somethings not always acceptable in the black community. Great job by the author.

I received a copy of the book via the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.