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Tikkun Olam: Restoring What was Lost (second chance, Christian romance)
Poppy Berman gave her heart to Jared Levine at sixteen years-old, but twenty years later, Jared crushes her dreams and their marriage with the mention of just one name. Two years after their separation, Jared swoops back in spouting new religious beliefs and says he wants his family back. At the same time, the pale green eyes of Joe Trautweig urge Poppy toward a future free from Jared. Poppy has always used medieval fiction and its tales of courtly love as an escape from real life, but she suddenly finds herself as the heroine in her own story of romance, intrigue, betrayal, and redemption. Either man Poppy chooses brings her toward a holy book she's never understood, and it challenges her own beliefs about God. Ultimately, Poppy must decide if repairing what's been broken (tikkun olam) means restoration of the past or the creation of something completely new.
384 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2022
About the author
Ana Waters
8 books28 followersAna Waters is a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Religion and specific emphasis in Judaic and Biblical studies. She penned her first romance novel at the age of twelve, and she has never stopped writing the same books she loves to read. She lives outside of Atlanta, GA with her brood of precocious children, finding joy in the absurdities of life and motherhood. Sing-alongs not optional!
There are seven completed novels in the romantic women’s fiction series, Beauty for Ashes, with the final installment coming Fall 2026. She’s also proud to announce the debut of her romantic comedy series, Writers Find Romance. The books are wacky, silly, and 100% Ana! Book 1, Vivienne’s Regency Romp, is now available to own and readers are loving it!
Ana is thrilled to offer her novels in paperback, e-book, and kindle formats!
There are seven completed novels in the romantic women’s fiction series, Beauty for Ashes, with the final installment coming Fall 2026. She’s also proud to announce the debut of her romantic comedy series, Writers Find Romance. The books are wacky, silly, and 100% Ana! Book 1, Vivienne’s Regency Romp, is now available to own and readers are loving it!
Ana is thrilled to offer her novels in paperback, e-book, and kindle formats!
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
November 7, 2022
Deeply emotional
I honestly didn't want to read this book. I hate love triangles, and I knew going into it that this one had one. I kept seeing posts for it and felt drawn to read it. I have to admit, the first half of the book was hard for me (A sweet romance lover) to read. I'm glad I did though. If you can hang in there, the way the story unfurled after so much angst was beautiful.
Without adding any spoilers, there was one scene with Poppy and the woman from her workplace that literally made me weep it was so touching. The same happened when her daughter read her speech at the end. The author has a gift for writing deeply emotional scenes that tug at your heart.
At times, I became frustrated with Poppy because of her attitudes and reactions, but it was all part of the journey. I don't want to speak to that too much (again spoilers) except to say that even though that was the case, I was able to come to a place where I appreciated her internal growth arc and respected her and her choices as a character.
Recommended to those who enjoy faith based women's fiction with a thread of romance and stories of God's redemptive love.
I honestly didn't want to read this book. I hate love triangles, and I knew going into it that this one had one. I kept seeing posts for it and felt drawn to read it. I have to admit, the first half of the book was hard for me (A sweet romance lover) to read. I'm glad I did though. If you can hang in there, the way the story unfurled after so much angst was beautiful.
Without adding any spoilers, there was one scene with Poppy and the woman from her workplace that literally made me weep it was so touching. The same happened when her daughter read her speech at the end. The author has a gift for writing deeply emotional scenes that tug at your heart.
At times, I became frustrated with Poppy because of her attitudes and reactions, but it was all part of the journey. I don't want to speak to that too much (again spoilers) except to say that even though that was the case, I was able to come to a place where I appreciated her internal growth arc and respected her and her choices as a character.
Recommended to those who enjoy faith based women's fiction with a thread of romance and stories of God's redemptive love.
October 20, 2022
I was a beta reader for this book; following is my review:
There are some spoilers ahead, so proceed with caution.
The pacing for this story is very well done; it pulled me in quickly and held my attention.
Well done with the love triangle. I'm not normally a fan of love triangles, but this was a sneaky love triangle and one that didn't make me want to throw up. I genuinely thought this was going to be a story about Poppy ending up with Joe, but it went the other way with Jared. And I admit that I'm glad. It was nice to see Jared's repentance and how determined he was to change and be a better man for Poppy. But you also made me care enough about Joe to be genuinely concerned about him.
I liked the flashbacks; they were an effective way to relay the problems Jared and Poppy had in the past.
I love Miss Belle.
Well done, Ana! Can't wait to read the next in the series.
There are some spoilers ahead, so proceed with caution.
The pacing for this story is very well done; it pulled me in quickly and held my attention.
Well done with the love triangle. I'm not normally a fan of love triangles, but this was a sneaky love triangle and one that didn't make me want to throw up. I genuinely thought this was going to be a story about Poppy ending up with Joe, but it went the other way with Jared. And I admit that I'm glad. It was nice to see Jared's repentance and how determined he was to change and be a better man for Poppy. But you also made me care enough about Joe to be genuinely concerned about him.
I liked the flashbacks; they were an effective way to relay the problems Jared and Poppy had in the past.
I love Miss Belle.
Well done, Ana! Can't wait to read the next in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2022
First published on amorinacarlton.com
Forgiveness is the overarching theme in “Tikkun Olam: Restoring What Was Lost,” the latest installment of Ana Waters’s “Beauty for Ashes” series. While all three of her books have had similar themes – narcissistic abusers, love, loss, forgiveness, burgeoning romance, renewed faith – each has had its own unique take.
“Tikkun Olam” follows the story of Poppy, a woman with three small kids living in her parent’s basement. Married young, Poppy is devastated, bitter, and overwhelmed by life. Her husband’s betrayal left her vulnerable, but skeptical when he came spouting salvation as his reasons for reconciliation. And, of course, a new pair of green eyes at work – along with her husband’s history of abuse and betrayal – make her reluctant to give her marriage – or any new relationships – another try.
Tikkun Olam
All three of Waters’ books involve marrying Jewish and Christian identities in a new way. Sometimes, deeply Christian individuals navigate their Jewish cultural identities, and sometimes, like in this novel, a lifelong Jewish culture and religious Jewish heroine struggles with burgeoning Christian ideas.
Waters is wonderful at weaving the story and building the world in such a way that the reader feels drawn in and present in the story. I could hardly put this third installment down, drawn in by the drama and waiting to see what would happen next. Though a few times, Waters did so well at building the tension and drama I had to put it down to take an emotional break for a bit.
I didn’t expect this story to end the way it did, and I’ll admit that is quite unusual and a refreshing turn for me. I devour so many stories – whether through books, television, movies, or other forms – that it’s rare for me to be that surprised. So, when an author does it, I am especially surprised and pleased.
The struggles of personal demons – both literal and figurative – were so real and vibrant on these pages. It is a special talent of Waters to make the human experience come alive. Much like our heroine herself, I struggle a little with the Leviathan of it all. I’ve mentioned in past reviews that the almost magical quality of the religious aspects is something I didn’t personally grow up with in my religious upbringing. Poppy, too, is uncomfortable and uncertain about it. Perhaps it’s why Poppy and I meshed so well, together. But I respect others’ beliefs, and I enjoy the read immensely.
Overall, Waters ability to craft flawed, real, but redeemable characters is a skill all unto itself. As a fellow writer, I tip my hat, because it is hard to turn a villain into a beloved character, and she has done it on more than one occasion. Finding that line between love and hate can be difficult, and she traverses it beautifully. Joe Trautwieg, one of Poppy’s love interests in the book, was one of my favorite so far. While I loved the nerdy Ian Horner in book two – something about Joe really touched my soul in a way I can’t quite put my finger on yet.
If you love a drama that at times pulls you through the wringer – but in that good, emotionally cathartic way – this is the book for you. If you’re Jewish, and a little nervous about Christianity, this might challenge your beliefs some, so be forewarned on that point. But I think we can all use a little challenge sometimes. One of my favorite scenes in this particular book involved a rabbi, a bat mitzvah, and Jesus. You’ll know it when you see it.
I can’t wait to see what beauty Waters next raises from the ashes.
Content Warning: Abuse, Demons, Spiritual Warfare, Religious Challenges
Forgiveness is the overarching theme in “Tikkun Olam: Restoring What Was Lost,” the latest installment of Ana Waters’s “Beauty for Ashes” series. While all three of her books have had similar themes – narcissistic abusers, love, loss, forgiveness, burgeoning romance, renewed faith – each has had its own unique take.
“Tikkun Olam” follows the story of Poppy, a woman with three small kids living in her parent’s basement. Married young, Poppy is devastated, bitter, and overwhelmed by life. Her husband’s betrayal left her vulnerable, but skeptical when he came spouting salvation as his reasons for reconciliation. And, of course, a new pair of green eyes at work – along with her husband’s history of abuse and betrayal – make her reluctant to give her marriage – or any new relationships – another try.
Tikkun Olam
All three of Waters’ books involve marrying Jewish and Christian identities in a new way. Sometimes, deeply Christian individuals navigate their Jewish cultural identities, and sometimes, like in this novel, a lifelong Jewish culture and religious Jewish heroine struggles with burgeoning Christian ideas.
Waters is wonderful at weaving the story and building the world in such a way that the reader feels drawn in and present in the story. I could hardly put this third installment down, drawn in by the drama and waiting to see what would happen next. Though a few times, Waters did so well at building the tension and drama I had to put it down to take an emotional break for a bit.
I didn’t expect this story to end the way it did, and I’ll admit that is quite unusual and a refreshing turn for me. I devour so many stories – whether through books, television, movies, or other forms – that it’s rare for me to be that surprised. So, when an author does it, I am especially surprised and pleased.
The struggles of personal demons – both literal and figurative – were so real and vibrant on these pages. It is a special talent of Waters to make the human experience come alive. Much like our heroine herself, I struggle a little with the Leviathan of it all. I’ve mentioned in past reviews that the almost magical quality of the religious aspects is something I didn’t personally grow up with in my religious upbringing. Poppy, too, is uncomfortable and uncertain about it. Perhaps it’s why Poppy and I meshed so well, together. But I respect others’ beliefs, and I enjoy the read immensely.
Overall, Waters ability to craft flawed, real, but redeemable characters is a skill all unto itself. As a fellow writer, I tip my hat, because it is hard to turn a villain into a beloved character, and she has done it on more than one occasion. Finding that line between love and hate can be difficult, and she traverses it beautifully. Joe Trautwieg, one of Poppy’s love interests in the book, was one of my favorite so far. While I loved the nerdy Ian Horner in book two – something about Joe really touched my soul in a way I can’t quite put my finger on yet.
If you love a drama that at times pulls you through the wringer – but in that good, emotionally cathartic way – this is the book for you. If you’re Jewish, and a little nervous about Christianity, this might challenge your beliefs some, so be forewarned on that point. But I think we can all use a little challenge sometimes. One of my favorite scenes in this particular book involved a rabbi, a bat mitzvah, and Jesus. You’ll know it when you see it.
I can’t wait to see what beauty Waters next raises from the ashes.
Content Warning: Abuse, Demons, Spiritual Warfare, Religious Challenges
December 6, 2022
Another excellent, tension-rich romance by Ana Waters! I've read the first two books and loved them, so it was only natural I would read the third one, and I enjoyed it so much. It's always so much fun to see the returning cast of characters; I feel like I know them so well at this point and get excited whenever one comes onto the scene. A continuing thread I have loved about Ana's books is that she isn't afraid to show the ugly side of familial relationships or the corruption and abuse in the church (or abuse in the home and marriages). Everything is so spot on realistic; I'm sucked into the drama. But the Beauty for Ashes series isn't all about drama, there is hope and redemption and restoration, which Book 3 addresses in its title: Tikkun Olam, Restoring What Was Lost.
Poppy Levine is in a sticky situation. Her husband Jared cheated on her with her best friend, and after they've been separated for 2 years, he comes back spouting how much Jesus has changed him. Poppy isn't convinced, and frankly, I was right there with her. It was easy to put myself in Poppy's shoes (as I went through something similar in my own life) so, I wouldn't believe my ex either, which made this book very different than the first 2. I honestly wasn't sure how the story was going to end. There's a love triangle in here with the handsome green-eyed Joe Trautweig, who is very much like a knight in shining armor straight out of one of Poppy's medieval romance books she loves to read for escapism. And thus, Poppy's heart and emotions are tugged into falling prey to the same temptation that ensnared her husband. Is there hope for reconciliation for Poppy and Jared? Or will she choose a different path with Joe? I won't give away the ending but having to know what happened kept me turning page after page.
Also, I loved that there was a sneak peek at the end of Tikkun Olam for book 4, because I am eagerly awaiting its release. Can't wait!
Poppy Levine is in a sticky situation. Her husband Jared cheated on her with her best friend, and after they've been separated for 2 years, he comes back spouting how much Jesus has changed him. Poppy isn't convinced, and frankly, I was right there with her. It was easy to put myself in Poppy's shoes (as I went through something similar in my own life) so, I wouldn't believe my ex either, which made this book very different than the first 2. I honestly wasn't sure how the story was going to end. There's a love triangle in here with the handsome green-eyed Joe Trautweig, who is very much like a knight in shining armor straight out of one of Poppy's medieval romance books she loves to read for escapism. And thus, Poppy's heart and emotions are tugged into falling prey to the same temptation that ensnared her husband. Is there hope for reconciliation for Poppy and Jared? Or will she choose a different path with Joe? I won't give away the ending but having to know what happened kept me turning page after page.
Also, I loved that there was a sneak peek at the end of Tikkun Olam for book 4, because I am eagerly awaiting its release. Can't wait!
November 7, 2022
Ana Waters delivers an unflinching look at the inner workings of a marriage in crisis and the unrelenting pressures faced by her main character, Poppy, much of which stems from her religious upbringing, current beliefs and circle of influence (both positive and negative), and of course, her own self-doubt and insecurities.
Admittedly, the decisions Poppy ultimately made weren’t ones that I would have personally chosen, but this did not deter me from appreciating her struggle, the storyline, nor the author’s obvious ability to create a believable, multi-dimensional family. I have to say, my favorite has to be little Natalie, a real scene and heart stealer!
As with all of Ana’s books, this one’s overarching message is about forgiveness and repentance. It will surely leave readers filled with hope, something of which we can all use a little more.
Admittedly, the decisions Poppy ultimately made weren’t ones that I would have personally chosen, but this did not deter me from appreciating her struggle, the storyline, nor the author’s obvious ability to create a believable, multi-dimensional family. I have to say, my favorite has to be little Natalie, a real scene and heart stealer!
As with all of Ana’s books, this one’s overarching message is about forgiveness and repentance. It will surely leave readers filled with hope, something of which we can all use a little more.
September 15, 2022
I’ve already read the first two books in this series and absolutely love them. Book three also addresses some challenging real-life issues including unfaithfulness in marriage, divorce, and forgiveness. I love that characters from the other books make appearances and the author did a great job writing another story that shows how faith can change a person and that we shouldn’t assume only the other person makes mistakes. We should look at ourselves too. It was a great read, but I had a hard time relating to and understanding the characters at times and I also missed the playfulness and romantic tensions from the first two books. But overall I enjoyed the story and can’t wait for the release of book four.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews