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Rhythms of Redemption Romances #4
To Believe In You
Can she trust her heart to a man who can’t trust himself?
Since his dismissal from the rock band Awestruck, former bassist and addict Matt Visser has been transformed by faith and a year of sobriety.
If he can repay his parents for one last major debt from his years of irresponsible living, he can move into the future with a clear conscience. Now if only his latest stunt hadn’t gotten him fired from the family business.
After Lina Abbey’s fiancé gambled away their wedding savings, she surrendered her hopes of a family of her own—what man could she trust enough to marry?—and moved for a fresh start in Wisconsin.
She busies herself with her jobs managing Awestruck’s social media and directing Key of Hope, a non-profit funded by the band to teach music lessons to kids from low-income families.
She would never hire a man with Matt’s track record as a bass guitar instructor, but Awestruck’s manager, Tim, forces her hand. In need of a job and eager to clear his debts, Matt begins work. Unable to resist a challenge, he soon adds the goal of winning the trust of his beautiful but cautious coworker.
Lina is impressed that Matt resists Tim’s ongoing efforts to reconnect him with Awestruck, but when a new truth about Matt’s past reveals a wrong he can never right, he and Lina both need something more trustworthy than Matt to believe in. Otherwise, history will repeat itself in all the worst ways.
A meaningful Christian romance with a side of fame and fortune for readers who enjoy faith-filled escapes and happily-ever-afters where no one is beyond hope of redemption. Start reading today!
Since his dismissal from the rock band Awestruck, former bassist and addict Matt Visser has been transformed by faith and a year of sobriety.
If he can repay his parents for one last major debt from his years of irresponsible living, he can move into the future with a clear conscience. Now if only his latest stunt hadn’t gotten him fired from the family business.
After Lina Abbey’s fiancé gambled away their wedding savings, she surrendered her hopes of a family of her own—what man could she trust enough to marry?—and moved for a fresh start in Wisconsin.
She busies herself with her jobs managing Awestruck’s social media and directing Key of Hope, a non-profit funded by the band to teach music lessons to kids from low-income families.
She would never hire a man with Matt’s track record as a bass guitar instructor, but Awestruck’s manager, Tim, forces her hand. In need of a job and eager to clear his debts, Matt begins work. Unable to resist a challenge, he soon adds the goal of winning the trust of his beautiful but cautious coworker.
Lina is impressed that Matt resists Tim’s ongoing efforts to reconnect him with Awestruck, but when a new truth about Matt’s past reveals a wrong he can never right, he and Lina both need something more trustworthy than Matt to believe in. Otherwise, history will repeat itself in all the worst ways.
A meaningful Christian romance with a side of fame and fortune for readers who enjoy faith-filled escapes and happily-ever-afters where no one is beyond hope of redemption. Start reading today!
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
103 people are currently reading
730 people want to read
About the author
Emily Conrad
13 books445 followersEmily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s living) is Jesus. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and their energetic coonhound and two lop-eared bunny rescues. Learn more about her and her books at emilyconradauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 17, 2022
To Believe in You completes The Rhythms of Redemption series, which is undoubtedly one of my favorite series of all time. I loved every single book of this series and now, To Believe in You has tied as my favorite of the series with book one, To Bring You Back.
The rawness of Matt and Lina’s situations really moved me. They had different issues to overcome and different ways of handling things. Yet, they were both strong believers and I loved the way they began to grow close to each other and the paths they traveled to finally end up together.
Matt was one of those characters that had fallen so far in book one that it was hard to believe that he would ever get clean, let alone be able to remain sober. Yet, the peek we got of him in book three, To Begin Again, made me hopeful that his sobriety was a real and lasting change. And this latest novel was simply packed with emotion and the truth of who is the only One capable of truly redeeming us and setting us on a new path. I loved it from start to finish and could hardly set it down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The rawness of Matt and Lina’s situations really moved me. They had different issues to overcome and different ways of handling things. Yet, they were both strong believers and I loved the way they began to grow close to each other and the paths they traveled to finally end up together.
Matt was one of those characters that had fallen so far in book one that it was hard to believe that he would ever get clean, let alone be able to remain sober. Yet, the peek we got of him in book three, To Begin Again, made me hopeful that his sobriety was a real and lasting change. And this latest novel was simply packed with emotion and the truth of who is the only One capable of truly redeeming us and setting us on a new path. I loved it from start to finish and could hardly set it down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 9, 2022
I have been waiting for Matt's story since book one when he was NOT a great character. While this can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading them in order for the complete faith and redemption arc with each character.
Coming off of reading Philip's story in book three, this one seemed a little lighter. Don't get me wrong, it has plenty of struggles. Though Matt is no longer in the darkness of his addictive past, he is dealing with the consequences a decade of bad choices and addictions have left behind. His faith is so strong in this book and I loved that about him.
I admit I had a harder time loving Lina. She has been hurt in the past and has some pretty big trust issues, especially when it comes to men. This was reflected by her being pretty harsh with Matt on occasion, but I do love that he stood his ground and challenged her.
It was fun getting to see everyone from previous books. My favorite thing is how the characters look to God for their ultimate contentment and happiness, and not the love interest. They know only God can sustain and satisfy and I appreciate seeing that reflected in books.
I am so excited to see Tim's story in Emily's upcoming release!
**Thank you to the author for an ARC for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Coming off of reading Philip's story in book three, this one seemed a little lighter. Don't get me wrong, it has plenty of struggles. Though Matt is no longer in the darkness of his addictive past, he is dealing with the consequences a decade of bad choices and addictions have left behind. His faith is so strong in this book and I loved that about him.
I admit I had a harder time loving Lina. She has been hurt in the past and has some pretty big trust issues, especially when it comes to men. This was reflected by her being pretty harsh with Matt on occasion, but I do love that he stood his ground and challenged her.
It was fun getting to see everyone from previous books. My favorite thing is how the characters look to God for their ultimate contentment and happiness, and not the love interest. They know only God can sustain and satisfy and I appreciate seeing that reflected in books.
I am so excited to see Tim's story in Emily's upcoming release!
**Thank you to the author for an ARC for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 23, 2022
The only part that I hated about this book was that it ended! Actually, this entire series has been amazing! Getting to have Matt’s redemption story finish off the series was like the cherry on top of this beautiful series! Loved how the band brought him back after all he’d done and loved him like a brother. Also loved learning about the elusive Lina and getting to see her come alive.
Read this series! It’ll stay with you forever.
Read this series! It’ll stay with you forever.
August 31, 2022
I finished this book last week and cannot still get it out of my mind.
I really hadn’t liked Matt in the previous books so I just couldn’t imagine that I’d love this one.
But this may be my favorite of the Rhythms of Redemption series (it’s really hard to choose).
Emily takes the Awestruck band members and creates a world where we can see the temptations, hurts, losses and mistakes that are common to us all. Against the backdrop of a fictional town in northern Wisconsin, she crafts band members’ stories that we can identify with and that teach life lessons.
This story is of previous band member, Matt who has come back to town and Lina, the band’s social media manager. I’ve read the entire series so I remember when Matt was wasted, broken and lost. I really didn’t like him. He was not the role model for the young people the band was trying to reach. In this book, Matt has come a long long way. And he is trying to right all the wrongs he has done. He has turned his life over to God but struggles to believe in himself, all though he certainly has done a 180 turn around.
Lina is recovering from being betrayed by not only her fiancé but also her parents. She struggles with trusting someone again enough to have a relationship. And she also remembers Matt from the past.
She has turned from God at the same time Matt is depending on Him.
Both Lina and Matt who are polar opposites have a lot to teach each other.
I love the way Emily writes and she has done an outstanding job with this series.
(Here’s hoping Tim will get his book!)
Thank you to the author for my ARC. The opinions are entirely my own.
Some great quotes and food for thought:
“Our hope is found in only in a relationship with the One who made us and wants us to be happiest when we are following Him.”
“I hope I can teach my kid what I told you – the world’s broken , and Jesus is the answer.
I wouldn’t want any kid of mine trying to navigate life without having that down.”
“It’s between the grilled brain tacos or the beef feet tostadas.”
“If you lived your whole life during the day, would you ever guess there were entire galaxies waiting beyond the blue sky.”
“If God is real , I’ve been nothing but trouble for Him.”
“Same. But He hasn’t given up on either of us.”
“He created you for a purpose. Is it so unbelievable He’d want you to live it out?”
“It’s like He was waiting for me to stop trying to take care of everything myself.”
“He does seem to expect us to treat Him like God.”
I really hadn’t liked Matt in the previous books so I just couldn’t imagine that I’d love this one.
But this may be my favorite of the Rhythms of Redemption series (it’s really hard to choose).
Emily takes the Awestruck band members and creates a world where we can see the temptations, hurts, losses and mistakes that are common to us all. Against the backdrop of a fictional town in northern Wisconsin, she crafts band members’ stories that we can identify with and that teach life lessons.
This story is of previous band member, Matt who has come back to town and Lina, the band’s social media manager. I’ve read the entire series so I remember when Matt was wasted, broken and lost. I really didn’t like him. He was not the role model for the young people the band was trying to reach. In this book, Matt has come a long long way. And he is trying to right all the wrongs he has done. He has turned his life over to God but struggles to believe in himself, all though he certainly has done a 180 turn around.
Lina is recovering from being betrayed by not only her fiancé but also her parents. She struggles with trusting someone again enough to have a relationship. And she also remembers Matt from the past.
She has turned from God at the same time Matt is depending on Him.
Both Lina and Matt who are polar opposites have a lot to teach each other.
I love the way Emily writes and she has done an outstanding job with this series.
(Here’s hoping Tim will get his book!)
Thank you to the author for my ARC. The opinions are entirely my own.
Some great quotes and food for thought:
“Our hope is found in only in a relationship with the One who made us and wants us to be happiest when we are following Him.”
“I hope I can teach my kid what I told you – the world’s broken , and Jesus is the answer.
I wouldn’t want any kid of mine trying to navigate life without having that down.”
“It’s between the grilled brain tacos or the beef feet tostadas.”
“If you lived your whole life during the day, would you ever guess there were entire galaxies waiting beyond the blue sky.”
“If God is real , I’ve been nothing but trouble for Him.”
“Same. But He hasn’t given up on either of us.”
“He created you for a purpose. Is it so unbelievable He’d want you to live it out?”
“It’s like He was waiting for me to stop trying to take care of everything myself.”
“He does seem to expect us to treat Him like God.”
May 26, 2024
"When you showed up at Mom and Dad’s, you weren’t a stranger. You were an answer to prayer. And that’s why she treated you the way she did."
A lovely, refreshing, really well written, Christ centered book! I enjoyed the dynamic between Matt and Lina, and all other characters were spot on. I'd probably consider reading other books from this author.
Other quotes I liked:
“I’m trying to pay for my mistakes, not profit off them.”
“You’re going to be stressed, and I’m going to have fun.”
Matt had watched a full array of emotions play across Lina’s face today.
A full array of the negative ones anyway.
“If you ask nicely, I might not even be a civil adult about it.”
“How gallant of you.”
“Everything is exactly the way it should be. Easy isn’t the answer. The answer is in the struggle.”
“The answer is in the Bible,” Krissy countered.
“And the Bible is full of struggles.”
Instead, he was the guy alone at the table in the back. He scraped his knuckles across his upper lip, and the ache lasted as he lowered his hand. He shouldn’t have come here to sit and stare at the best opportunity he’d ever had and lost.
“I’m your boss.”
“That’s your hang-up?” He brushed the backs of his fingers along her jaw. “It must be exhausting to live by so many rules.”
As Matt stepped inside, the blue of his eyes struck her again.
She’d known him for years and had thought his eyes brown the whole time. Mistakenly.
Maybe he fit in here pretty well, bruises, tattoos, and all.
“Just wondering how much longer I have to let you lead before you believe I have willpower.”
“I was always going to lose you over something.”
“Which one got you to come back, being needed or being loved?”
“Being safe.” She meant to quit there, but she smiled with joy she couldn’t suppress. “And needed. And loved.”
A lovely, refreshing, really well written, Christ centered book! I enjoyed the dynamic between Matt and Lina, and all other characters were spot on. I'd probably consider reading other books from this author.
Other quotes I liked:
“I’m trying to pay for my mistakes, not profit off them.”
“You’re going to be stressed, and I’m going to have fun.”
Matt had watched a full array of emotions play across Lina’s face today.
A full array of the negative ones anyway.
“If you ask nicely, I might not even be a civil adult about it.”
“How gallant of you.”
“Everything is exactly the way it should be. Easy isn’t the answer. The answer is in the struggle.”
“The answer is in the Bible,” Krissy countered.
“And the Bible is full of struggles.”
Instead, he was the guy alone at the table in the back. He scraped his knuckles across his upper lip, and the ache lasted as he lowered his hand. He shouldn’t have come here to sit and stare at the best opportunity he’d ever had and lost.
“I’m your boss.”
“That’s your hang-up?” He brushed the backs of his fingers along her jaw. “It must be exhausting to live by so many rules.”
As Matt stepped inside, the blue of his eyes struck her again.
She’d known him for years and had thought his eyes brown the whole time. Mistakenly.
Maybe he fit in here pretty well, bruises, tattoos, and all.
“Just wondering how much longer I have to let you lead before you believe I have willpower.”
“I was always going to lose you over something.”
“Which one got you to come back, being needed or being loved?”
“Being safe.” She meant to quit there, but she smiled with joy she couldn’t suppress. “And needed. And loved.”
August 23, 2022
To Believe in You is book 4 in the Rhythms of Redemption series. As someone who has not read the other three, I can testify that this can be read as a standalone novel.
Lina is the social media manager for the band, Awestruck. She also works at the non-profit started by the band to give kids music lessons. She is asked to approach Matt, the former bassist for Awestruck, to be a teacher at the school. Matt, a recovering addict, has burned a lot of bridges and hurt a lot of people due to his past behavior. Lina is very familiar with him and his destructive ways, and she doubts he has really changed.
Matt has many faults and has owned up to them. He still takes risks, but he has truly changed and wants to make amends. Lina is very straight-laced. She is a rule follower, and she is very guarded after being betrayed by her fiancé and having a strained relationship with her parents. Lina and Matt are polar opposites, the basis of all good romances.
The characters are well developed, and while their circumstances are of novel material, the struggles they face - fighting addictions, regaining trust, tough family dynamics, betrayal by loved ones - are very real. I enjoyed the relationship development between the two main characters and the lessons they learned from each other. Lina, Matt, and others in the book are people of faith, and they pray and discuss faith matters in a natural way.
I liked this enough that I intend to go back and read the other books in the series.
Family friendly, though some of the subject matter might be too much for younger readers.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book. Opinions are mine.
Lina is the social media manager for the band, Awestruck. She also works at the non-profit started by the band to give kids music lessons. She is asked to approach Matt, the former bassist for Awestruck, to be a teacher at the school. Matt, a recovering addict, has burned a lot of bridges and hurt a lot of people due to his past behavior. Lina is very familiar with him and his destructive ways, and she doubts he has really changed.
Matt has many faults and has owned up to them. He still takes risks, but he has truly changed and wants to make amends. Lina is very straight-laced. She is a rule follower, and she is very guarded after being betrayed by her fiancé and having a strained relationship with her parents. Lina and Matt are polar opposites, the basis of all good romances.
The characters are well developed, and while their circumstances are of novel material, the struggles they face - fighting addictions, regaining trust, tough family dynamics, betrayal by loved ones - are very real. I enjoyed the relationship development between the two main characters and the lessons they learned from each other. Lina, Matt, and others in the book are people of faith, and they pray and discuss faith matters in a natural way.
I liked this enough that I intend to go back and read the other books in the series.
Family friendly, though some of the subject matter might be too much for younger readers.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book. Opinions are mine.
September 30, 2022
"Tim was convinced Matt would stick to the twelve-step program.
Lina would believe it when she saw it.
Maybe.
People could be awfully good at hiding dark secrets."
Matt was the original bass player for the band, Awestruck. Then he chose a life of drugs and partying which put him out of the band. We learn more about Matt's story in the previous books. His darker choices were first revealed in book one. Now he has changed his life and has started following God. But going back to the band is not a part of his plan.
Lina is forced to seek out Matt and ask him to teach music lessons. She is not convinced that Matt has changed. In fact, she has plenty of proof in her own life that others are unable to make a long-term change. Can Matt show her that redemption is possible?
Trying to write this review without giving spoilers is really hard. I will say that there are some suspenseful moments and some romantic ones. The other band members are still a part of this plot. Mostly this book is filled with daily life that requires grace. We cannot save ourselves. That is apparent in this book and this series. We need salvation and that only comes through Jesus.
This is the final book in the Rhythms of Redemption series. I have really enjoyed all of them. This one might be my favorite because the story comes full circle. I do recommend reading all five books in order. I have come to appreciate the characters and their growth. I was a bit skeptical about books centered around a rock band, but I love how the author transformed the stereotypes into meaningful moments.
I did receive an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Lina would believe it when she saw it.
Maybe.
People could be awfully good at hiding dark secrets."
Matt was the original bass player for the band, Awestruck. Then he chose a life of drugs and partying which put him out of the band. We learn more about Matt's story in the previous books. His darker choices were first revealed in book one. Now he has changed his life and has started following God. But going back to the band is not a part of his plan.
Lina is forced to seek out Matt and ask him to teach music lessons. She is not convinced that Matt has changed. In fact, she has plenty of proof in her own life that others are unable to make a long-term change. Can Matt show her that redemption is possible?
Trying to write this review without giving spoilers is really hard. I will say that there are some suspenseful moments and some romantic ones. The other band members are still a part of this plot. Mostly this book is filled with daily life that requires grace. We cannot save ourselves. That is apparent in this book and this series. We need salvation and that only comes through Jesus.
This is the final book in the Rhythms of Redemption series. I have really enjoyed all of them. This one might be my favorite because the story comes full circle. I do recommend reading all five books in order. I have come to appreciate the characters and their growth. I was a bit skeptical about books centered around a rock band, but I love how the author transformed the stereotypes into meaningful moments.
I did receive an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
September 5, 2022
My hat is off to Emily Conrad for crafting a wonderful series that shows how amazing God's forgiveness and redemption is for Matt and Lina (And for all the other band members too). Conrad doesn't shy away from real life turmoil, but she handles tragedy and heartache with grace and relationships that stand the test of time.
Matt has a compelling backstory as a rowdy band member cut from the band because of his shenanigans. Lina is proper and hardworking and has learned to not let many people into her inner circle. When Lina's grandmother dies and leaves her an inheritance, dysfunction happens in epic proportions.
Lina has to handle her crazy ex-boyfriend along with Awestruck's social media accounts and Adeline's music ministry for kids. When Matt teaches bass to children, their paths intersect, and passion erupts. Can they overcome their pasts to have a fresh start at love.
Throw in a twist with Matt's past and a suspense element with Lina and you have a story that will keep you reading. I love spending time with the Awestruck family and finally, Gannon and Adeline star in a wedding.
Forgiveness isn't fashionable, but it frees the soul to love God more fully. Conrad captures the freedom in forgiveness in this novel.
I received an advanced copy of this novel, but all opinions are my own. I purchased a copy, too.
Matt has a compelling backstory as a rowdy band member cut from the band because of his shenanigans. Lina is proper and hardworking and has learned to not let many people into her inner circle. When Lina's grandmother dies and leaves her an inheritance, dysfunction happens in epic proportions.
Lina has to handle her crazy ex-boyfriend along with Awestruck's social media accounts and Adeline's music ministry for kids. When Matt teaches bass to children, their paths intersect, and passion erupts. Can they overcome their pasts to have a fresh start at love.
Throw in a twist with Matt's past and a suspense element with Lina and you have a story that will keep you reading. I love spending time with the Awestruck family and finally, Gannon and Adeline star in a wedding.
Forgiveness isn't fashionable, but it frees the soul to love God more fully. Conrad captures the freedom in forgiveness in this novel.
I received an advanced copy of this novel, but all opinions are my own. I purchased a copy, too.
October 11, 2022
I had seen this author's books floating around on Instagram and jumped at the chance to grab one on Netgally.
Yes, I started with the last book in the series. It in no way lessened my enjoyment of this beautiful story.
I love stories of people who get second chances. I love the opposites attract trope. And I love a strong redemption arc.
This book had all of that.
The author crafters characters that have their own flaws and struggles. I loved the hero. Though wounded and scarred from his past mistakes, he was lovable and I couldn't help but root for him. I loved his protective nature as well.
Always here for the protective hero.
The heroine is the opposite of him in many ways, and yet she was so relatable to a fellow rule abider like myself.
I loved the way each character had to work through their struggles.
In some ways I wished to see them work together through some of those things. Yet the story was so satisfying and tugged in my heartstrings a few times, inspiring all the feels.
And the faith and gospel message were beautifully displayed and lived through imperfect characters.
Truly a beautiful story.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgally. All opinions are honest and completely my own.
Yes, I started with the last book in the series. It in no way lessened my enjoyment of this beautiful story.
I love stories of people who get second chances. I love the opposites attract trope. And I love a strong redemption arc.
This book had all of that.
The author crafters characters that have their own flaws and struggles. I loved the hero. Though wounded and scarred from his past mistakes, he was lovable and I couldn't help but root for him. I loved his protective nature as well.
Always here for the protective hero.
The heroine is the opposite of him in many ways, and yet she was so relatable to a fellow rule abider like myself.
I loved the way each character had to work through their struggles.
In some ways I wished to see them work together through some of those things. Yet the story was so satisfying and tugged in my heartstrings a few times, inspiring all the feels.
And the faith and gospel message were beautifully displayed and lived through imperfect characters.
Truly a beautiful story.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgally. All opinions are honest and completely my own.
September 11, 2022
Thank you to my friends who recommended Emily Conrad's books to me! This was my first book by her, and the fourth in the series.
I think reading this book alone without the backstory helped me to come into it without any negative feelings toward the male MC but also I came in without any positive feelings for the female MC, and it took me awhile to come to like her.
Part of that is, of course, personality, since I'm not a rule follower, but Lina never really loosened up, and I had trouble understanding her. She was very judgmental of the male MC, which apparently she had good reason to be, but of course we all wanted her to come around and like him. The fact that it took her a long time to do so reflected a lot on her own character.
I liked the messages in this book and the strong Christian characters throughout, which are things I appreciate the most in a book. Emily has a great cast of characters here, some believers, some not, and they're consistent within themselves yet show growth.
I'm never a big fan of abusive ex/ abduction storylines, but they're common, so although it's nothing the author did wrong, it just isn't my favorite kind of story. The redemptive "bad boy" was pretty enjoyable though and easily my favorite part & character.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and a positive review was not required.
I think reading this book alone without the backstory helped me to come into it without any negative feelings toward the male MC but also I came in without any positive feelings for the female MC, and it took me awhile to come to like her.
Part of that is, of course, personality, since I'm not a rule follower, but Lina never really loosened up, and I had trouble understanding her. She was very judgmental of the male MC, which apparently she had good reason to be, but of course we all wanted her to come around and like him. The fact that it took her a long time to do so reflected a lot on her own character.
I liked the messages in this book and the strong Christian characters throughout, which are things I appreciate the most in a book. Emily has a great cast of characters here, some believers, some not, and they're consistent within themselves yet show growth.
I'm never a big fan of abusive ex/ abduction storylines, but they're common, so although it's nothing the author did wrong, it just isn't my favorite kind of story. The redemptive "bad boy" was pretty enjoyable though and easily my favorite part & character.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and a positive review was not required.
October 29, 2022
To Believe in You by Emily Conrad
Rhythms of Redemption Series Book Four
Matt Visser hadn’t done well with fame and fortune. He took a path that finally led to him being fired from Awestruck. In his drug-induced stupors, it was always someone else’s fault. Only a wake-up call from God would get him on the right path. After a year of being clean and sober, he’s given a second chance to work in the field he loves most—and yet, almost destroyed him—music.
Galina “Lina” Abbey is the social media person for Awestruck. And now, she’s also working for Adeline’s charity. She was against hiring Matt to teach kids bass guitar, so when she asked, and he refused, that was fine. But Awestruck’s manager, Tim, was persistent in getting Matt the job. Tim won.
I love this series so much. I love how the author writes their struggles with life and their Christian faith and how often we try to take the wheel from God and do it our way…which usually leads to failure. The characters come to life, and I’ll miss them if this is the end of this series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Rhythms of Redemption Series Book Four
Matt Visser hadn’t done well with fame and fortune. He took a path that finally led to him being fired from Awestruck. In his drug-induced stupors, it was always someone else’s fault. Only a wake-up call from God would get him on the right path. After a year of being clean and sober, he’s given a second chance to work in the field he loves most—and yet, almost destroyed him—music.
Galina “Lina” Abbey is the social media person for Awestruck. And now, she’s also working for Adeline’s charity. She was against hiring Matt to teach kids bass guitar, so when she asked, and he refused, that was fine. But Awestruck’s manager, Tim, was persistent in getting Matt the job. Tim won.
I love this series so much. I love how the author writes their struggles with life and their Christian faith and how often we try to take the wheel from God and do it our way…which usually leads to failure. The characters come to life, and I’ll miss them if this is the end of this series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
December 12, 2022
To Believe In You is book four in the Rhythms of Redemption Romances series that is written by Emily Conrad. I have really enjoyed this series and cannot wait until the next series that the author has planned. The author always writes such power messages in her books. This one is all about God's forgiveness. Matt who has a checkered past, and was released by Awestruck due to substance use. He is now a year sober and looking to get back into music.
Lina Abbey has thrown herself into her work as Awestruck’s social media manager and director of Key of Hope, a non-profit funded by the band to teach music lessons to kids from low-income families. She does not want to hire Matt to teach children - but her boss overrules her. Lina is hurting from her past and is struggling to trust others after she is left by her fiancé.
Seeing the interaction between the two change over the course of the story is heartwarming. We all have pasts, and deserved death - but because of God's love and forgiveness we are able to be forgiven.
I received a copy of this book through the author - all thoughts are my own.
Lina Abbey has thrown herself into her work as Awestruck’s social media manager and director of Key of Hope, a non-profit funded by the band to teach music lessons to kids from low-income families. She does not want to hire Matt to teach children - but her boss overrules her. Lina is hurting from her past and is struggling to trust others after she is left by her fiancé.
Seeing the interaction between the two change over the course of the story is heartwarming. We all have pasts, and deserved death - but because of God's love and forgiveness we are able to be forgiven.
I received a copy of this book through the author - all thoughts are my own.
September 4, 2024
Matt Visser has made his share of mistakes. Now, he wants to make things right with everyone he’s wronged. But the harder he tries, the more trouble he finds.
Lina Abbey has dealt with more than her share of troublemakers. When her job requires hiring Matt Visser, Lina finds nothing good in putting Matt in the same situation that caused his downfall.
Emily Conrad creates a musical world in To Believe in You and populates it with flawed but likable musicians. Through her characters, we see the consequences of wrong choices and what it takes to make restitutions. But she doesn’t stop there. Her characters discover the changing power of grace and forgiveness.
I discovered Matt and Lina’s story after a reading slump. Though different from my usual fare, I enjoyed Conrad’s writing style. In this series, she addresses some challenging subjects like addiction. Something to keep in mind if that is not your cup of tea. Finally, among all the pain and misunderstandings is a thread of hope. As a reader, I couldn’t ask for more than that.
Lina Abbey has dealt with more than her share of troublemakers. When her job requires hiring Matt Visser, Lina finds nothing good in putting Matt in the same situation that caused his downfall.
Emily Conrad creates a musical world in To Believe in You and populates it with flawed but likable musicians. Through her characters, we see the consequences of wrong choices and what it takes to make restitutions. But she doesn’t stop there. Her characters discover the changing power of grace and forgiveness.
I discovered Matt and Lina’s story after a reading slump. Though different from my usual fare, I enjoyed Conrad’s writing style. In this series, she addresses some challenging subjects like addiction. Something to keep in mind if that is not your cup of tea. Finally, among all the pain and misunderstandings is a thread of hope. As a reader, I couldn’t ask for more than that.
October 30, 2022
Lina Abbey has been hurt. She was betrayed by her fiance' and she is not about to give another man her heart. When she is sent to convince Matt Visser, the former bass guitarist from the group, Awestruck, she is convinced the stories she has heard about him are true. He is a hot mess! But, he has been sober for a year and has found a faith in God that makes him want to be a better person and make up for some of the hurt and damage he has caused those he loves, he is ready and willing to teach guitar to some budding students.
Once Matt gets to know Lina, he wants to win her heart, too, but he doesn't feel worthy of her love. Will two damaged hearts be able to find a way to heal and give grace and understanding to each other?
This is a beautiful story of redemption and forgiveness and the power of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Once Matt gets to know Lina, he wants to win her heart, too, but he doesn't feel worthy of her love. Will two damaged hearts be able to find a way to heal and give grace and understanding to each other?
This is a beautiful story of redemption and forgiveness and the power of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
September 14, 2022
I was a little curious how Emily Conrad would go about winning the readers over to root for Matt after he showed himself to be such a mess of a character in the beginning of the series. And her writing talents have done it once again! Not only is this an amazing book (even read as a stand alone) but it’s definitely the most fun in the series! I loved watching Matt woo Lina, and the twists and turns that the story takes made it hard to put down. As always Emily doesn’t hesitate to confront hard to deal with topics like drug addiction, relationship abuse, and deep set insecurities, but she does so always weaving in the truth of God’s redeeming power which makes the book such an encouragement to read. I cannot say enough how much I loved this book, I highly recommend it to everyone! I received an advance copy from the author for my honest review.
January 27, 2024
To Believe in You is the fifth book in the Rhythms of Redemption series, although it’s labelled fourth with the addition of 1.5 focusing on Matt, a recovering addict and the original bassist for Awestruck and Lina, who works as Awestruck’s social media manager and director of Key of Hope. Conrad’s written a beautiful, powerful, messy romantic story with flawed characters that grow as they face their struggles. I just love this series and the messages woven through the storylines. Quote: "They’d all failed. They’d all needed redemption. Not one of them had deserved it. Yet, they served a God who could transform chaos and pain into a song of deliverance, and they’d live the rest of their lives singing to His rhythms of redemption."
September 6, 2022
From its stunning cover to the final words, the pages of To Believe in You are filled with hope and redemption. Matt and Lina's story is so much more than a rockstar romance, it's a tale of two people learning forgiveness and restoration from opposing sides. Their road to romance is rife with sharp turns and unexpected bumps, but it's such a joy to read the ways in which Lina learns to forgive and set healthy boundaries while Matt grows in understanding the difference between restitution and redemption, guilt and grace. While this was my first read from Emily Conrad, it certainly won't be my last!
October 10, 2022
Matt's story is full of surprises, excitement, many "oh my goodnesses" AND a wedding! The love story is very engaging. Matt is my favorite character in the Rhythms of Redemption series. My patience was being tested while I waited for his story. Emily was gracious enough to give us small snippets into his life along the way, through the other books in the series. This book does not disappoint. The struggles Matt and Lina go through personally, are very realistic, Emily sure did her homework with this one. I will leave you with two words, skid steer!! ;) I received an advance copy from the author, although I also ordered a physical copy for my library.
August 27, 2022
This a beautiful story following Matt and Lina, both working through their own pasts, on a journey to discovering that ultimately they can’t just rely on their trust in each other, they need to learn to live every day trusting God.
I loved both main characters, and became so invested in the storyline that I couldn’t stop turning the pages and read it mostly in one sitting.
This is the first book I have read in this series, and by the author, however that didn’t impact my reading this one and I’m now looking forward to picking up the rest of the series.
I loved both main characters, and became so invested in the storyline that I couldn’t stop turning the pages and read it mostly in one sitting.
This is the first book I have read in this series, and by the author, however that didn’t impact my reading this one and I’m now looking forward to picking up the rest of the series.
October 4, 2022
This is the first book by Emily Conrad that I have read. To Believe In You is the fourth book in her Rhythms of Redemption series, but each book can be read as a standalone. You just may not fully understand all the different side characters and how they connect, but this does not take away from the story at all.
I have mixed feelings about this book. For the most part I did enjoy it, but didn’t really love it. I really struggled to get into the story at the beginning. I didn’t like how Lina was so antagonistic to Matt. It all seemed a little over the top.
Once I got into the story it was better, but there was just so much going on in the story. First there is the enemies-to-lovers plot, then the redemption plot, then throw in a surprise baby and some suspense. It was all a bit too much for me to fully enjoy the story.
This wasn’t a bad book, it just wasn’t for me.
I have mixed feelings about this book. For the most part I did enjoy it, but didn’t really love it. I really struggled to get into the story at the beginning. I didn’t like how Lina was so antagonistic to Matt. It all seemed a little over the top.
Once I got into the story it was better, but there was just so much going on in the story. First there is the enemies-to-lovers plot, then the redemption plot, then throw in a surprise baby and some suspense. It was all a bit too much for me to fully enjoy the story.
This wasn’t a bad book, it just wasn’t for me.
October 17, 2022
Wow! Once again Emily Conrad has written an amazingly realistic & uplifting story with the latest in her Rhythms of Redemption series! Matt and Lina are so relatable, so realistic in their characterization & situations that it’s actually hard to remember they are fictional characters. The story line draws you in immediately & keeps you invested in the lives of Matt & Lina, as well as the rest of the members of Awestruck.
(Although I had already pre-ordered this book, I was given the opportunity to receive an advanced copy. All opinions I have stated remain my own.)
(Although I had already pre-ordered this book, I was given the opportunity to receive an advanced copy. All opinions I have stated remain my own.)
June 8, 2023
This was the PERFECT ending to a series I never wanted to end. Matt’s redemption was utter perfection. Lina was adorable and Matt—despite being almost hate-able in book 1–was SO LOVABLE! From the first interaction until the very end his growth BLEW ME AWAY. There is so much more I want to say but will need a lifetime to mull over these characters and savor the imprint they left on my heart. For anyone who likes Christian romance this series NEEDS to be a staple in your library. NEEDS. TO. BE. I can’t wait to see what else God has in store for Emily and her stories.
October 5, 2022
This is book four in the Rhythms of Redemption series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. This is the first book I read in the series, and I loved it. This book hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. Matt and Lina's story has just the right amount of suspense and romance to keep you turning the pages. It's full of God's grace and forgiveness. I highly recommend this book and now I want to read the first three books in this series.
January 28, 2025
This is the book I was most anticipating out of this series. I think it may be a little more than 4 stars. Maybe 4.5. I thought this one would definitely be the best in the series but I think it’s a toss up between this one and the first one. However, I related with Lina the most of all the fmc and I love Matt the best of all the guys so To Believe in You was my personal favorite.
September 12, 2022
I loved every minute of reading this series and especially this book. Matt and Lina's stories are beautifully interwoven, the twists and turns just keep you hanging on. Emily is a great author and this series is a must read 📚
July 14, 2025
This book gave a very nice insight into how recovering from addiction feels, which I enjoyed reading about. The book is a bit a slow in the beginning and insanely chaotic at the end. A nice, Godly romance book though
October 3, 2022
To Believe in you is a very well written inspirational romance. Good plot and character dynamics. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC. This is my unbiased review.
October 23, 2022
A sweet story about second chances in life and learning to trust. This is the 4th book in a series, but I had no problem reading it as a standalone book.
November 1, 2022
I loved Matt and Lina’s story. I was so sad when it finished and had a book hangover for several days!
February 16, 2023
Great conclusion to this series! If you loved The State of Grace series by Tammy L Gray, you will probably love this one too!
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