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Seasons of the Tallgrass #2
Seeds of Summer
When opposites attract, sparks fly--like an electrical malfunction. That's what happens when former rodeo queen, Natalie Adams meets the new pastor in Diamond Falls.
Upon the death of her father, Natalie returns to the Flint Hills to raise her two half-siblings and run the family ranch, giving up her dreams for the future. She soon realizes her time in college and as Miss Rodeo Kansas is not enough to break the bonds that held her as a girl. Jared Logan, a new pastor in Diamond Falls, is set on making a good impression to his first congregation, but finds that change doesn't come easy for some people. In fact, most in his congregation are set against it. Natalie and her troubled family provide an outlet for his energy and soon become his personal mission project. Having raised her stepbrother and sister from an early youth, Natalie's self-sufficient nature isn’t inclined to accept help, especially from a city-boy do-gooder like Jared Logen. Though attracted to him, there's no way she'd ever consider being a pastor's wife. Bible studies and bake sales just aren't her thing.
Jared repeatedly comes to Natalie’s rescue, forcing her to see him with new eyes. At the same time, Jared’s plan to plant Christ’s word in Natalie’s heart backfires when he loses his own heart to this wayward family. When problems arise in his congregation, he must face his greatest fears—of letting down God, his congregation, or those he loves. His time with Natalie has shown him the importance of standing by those you love, a lesson he chose to ignore in order to please his father years ago. This is put to the test when Natalie faces a battle of custody of her half-siblings against the mother who abandoned them twelve years ago. Natalie’s fight for the children turns into a fight for custody of her heart as she learns the true meaning of unconditional love. In turn, Jared must decide which dreams are his own—and whether Natalie is part of those dreams.
Upon the death of her father, Natalie returns to the Flint Hills to raise her two half-siblings and run the family ranch, giving up her dreams for the future. She soon realizes her time in college and as Miss Rodeo Kansas is not enough to break the bonds that held her as a girl. Jared Logan, a new pastor in Diamond Falls, is set on making a good impression to his first congregation, but finds that change doesn't come easy for some people. In fact, most in his congregation are set against it. Natalie and her troubled family provide an outlet for his energy and soon become his personal mission project. Having raised her stepbrother and sister from an early youth, Natalie's self-sufficient nature isn’t inclined to accept help, especially from a city-boy do-gooder like Jared Logen. Though attracted to him, there's no way she'd ever consider being a pastor's wife. Bible studies and bake sales just aren't her thing.
Jared repeatedly comes to Natalie’s rescue, forcing her to see him with new eyes. At the same time, Jared’s plan to plant Christ’s word in Natalie’s heart backfires when he loses his own heart to this wayward family. When problems arise in his congregation, he must face his greatest fears—of letting down God, his congregation, or those he loves. His time with Natalie has shown him the importance of standing by those you love, a lesson he chose to ignore in order to please his father years ago. This is put to the test when Natalie faces a battle of custody of her half-siblings against the mother who abandoned them twelve years ago. Natalie’s fight for the children turns into a fight for custody of her heart as she learns the true meaning of unconditional love. In turn, Jared must decide which dreams are his own—and whether Natalie is part of those dreams.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
9 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Vogts
3 books61 followersDeborah Vogts is an author for Zondervan and writes contemporary inspirational fiction. Seeds of Summer, her second book in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series is set to release May 2010. The first book, Snow Melts in Spring is available in stores now.
In writing the Seasons of the Tallgrass series, she hopes to share her passion for one of the last tallgrass prairie regions in the world, showing that God's great beauty rests on the Flint Hills prairie and in the hearts of those who live there.
Deborah and her husband have three daughters and live in SE Kansas.
In writing the Seasons of the Tallgrass series, she hopes to share her passion for one of the last tallgrass prairie regions in the world, showing that God's great beauty rests on the Flint Hills prairie and in the hearts of those who live there.
Deborah and her husband have three daughters and live in SE Kansas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 8, 2010
I was really looking forward to a sweet, relaxing summertime read when I picked up Seeds of Summer and that is exactly what I found. I enjoyed this book every bit as much as I hoped I would. I think what I liked best about it is the setting. It is obvious that Deborah has a great love of the Flint Hills of Kansas. I can just imagine the beauty of the prairie on a summer evening because of the wonderful writing and detail in this book.
The characters and the story served to add so much more to this wonderful setting. The conflicts were realistic and the amazing power of forgiveness and trusting God made this an inspirational story as well as a charming romance. I really enjoyed Seeds of Summer and recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect summertime book. I’m looking forward to the next book, Blades of Autumn, in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series.
The characters and the story served to add so much more to this wonderful setting. The conflicts were realistic and the amazing power of forgiveness and trusting God made this an inspirational story as well as a charming romance. I really enjoyed Seeds of Summer and recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect summertime book. I’m looking forward to the next book, Blades of Autumn, in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series.
June 24, 2010
As soon as I finished reading the first book in this series, Snow Melts in Spring, I didn't know how I could possibly wait months to read this one. As it turns out, it wasn't as hard as I expected. =) Let me also mention, to those of you that are familiar with my obsession of reading series books in order, there is really no need with these 2 books. The characters from Snow Melts in Spring are just briefly mentioned in Seeds of Summer.
While this was a really good story, it didn't touch my heart as much as the first one did. For some reason, I had a really hard time connecting with Natalie. She just seemed so distant, and even a little selfish, at times. Initially, I thought we would have quite a bit in common, as I'm the oldest of 4 girls and pretty much helped my Mom raise my 2 youngest sisters. I guess the fact that my Mom WAS around took out the "common" factor, as I wasn't completely responsible for them like Natalie was her younger half-siblings, Chelsey and Dillon.
I fell in love with Dillon from the beginning, especially the way he was always looking out for Natalie, though he is years younger -- Chelsey, not so much. She was pretty obnoxious in the beginning, but eventually turned out to be a really sweet girl. And their mother, Libby, whew!, she is something else.
On a positive note, I thought Jared was a real sweetheart! Normally, I think of pastors as being serious, older men -- definitely NOT so in Jared's case. He is the perfect example of how we should all treat one another, while at the same time doing his best to straighten out his own life. Jared faces some really tough personal decisions, but doesn't lose sight of the fact that he is a pastor first; before being a son, a friend, or a potential boyfriend/husband. He takes the time to stop and listen to what God has in mind for him, instead of just continuing to make his own choices -- even though, it might mean not getting what his heart desires most.
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading either of Deborah Vogts books, be sure to drop by and visit her blog, Country at Heart, or her website.
***I would like to say "thank you" to Deborah for sending me a copy of her book. I would also like to thank Londa Alderink of Zondervan.***
While this was a really good story, it didn't touch my heart as much as the first one did. For some reason, I had a really hard time connecting with Natalie. She just seemed so distant, and even a little selfish, at times. Initially, I thought we would have quite a bit in common, as I'm the oldest of 4 girls and pretty much helped my Mom raise my 2 youngest sisters. I guess the fact that my Mom WAS around took out the "common" factor, as I wasn't completely responsible for them like Natalie was her younger half-siblings, Chelsey and Dillon.
I fell in love with Dillon from the beginning, especially the way he was always looking out for Natalie, though he is years younger -- Chelsey, not so much. She was pretty obnoxious in the beginning, but eventually turned out to be a really sweet girl. And their mother, Libby, whew!, she is something else.
On a positive note, I thought Jared was a real sweetheart! Normally, I think of pastors as being serious, older men -- definitely NOT so in Jared's case. He is the perfect example of how we should all treat one another, while at the same time doing his best to straighten out his own life. Jared faces some really tough personal decisions, but doesn't lose sight of the fact that he is a pastor first; before being a son, a friend, or a potential boyfriend/husband. He takes the time to stop and listen to what God has in mind for him, instead of just continuing to make his own choices -- even though, it might mean not getting what his heart desires most.
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading either of Deborah Vogts books, be sure to drop by and visit her blog, Country at Heart, or her website.
***I would like to say "thank you" to Deborah for sending me a copy of her book. I would also like to thank Londa Alderink of Zondervan.***
June 28, 2010
Title: SEEDS OF SUMMER
Author: Deborah Vogts
Publisher: Zondervan
May 2010
ISBN: 978-0-310-29276-0
Inspirational/contemporary
Natalie Adams is a former rodeo queen, but now she’s a twenty-two year old orphan, left in charge of the family ranch, two younger half-siblings, and dying dreams of getting a college degree. Natalie doesn’t even know where to begin.
Jared Logan is a new pastor to the community, serving in his first parish. He repeatedly comes to Natalie’s rescue, but Natalie is loath to accept help from anyone—especially his. When the church resists Jared’s suggestion to change, and with his involvement with Natalie’s family, Jared begins to question his calling.
When Natalie’s absent step-mother suddenly reappears with her own plans, Natalie is forced to choose between her own desires or the needs of the family. What will it take for her to face her fears—to find a future and a hope?
SEEDS OF SUMMER is the second book in Ms. Vogts Seasons of the Tallgrass series, but it easily stands alone. Natalie, though still a very young adult, has a lot of challenges on her shoulders, more than most have at that age, but she seems quite capable. Jared is an idealist pastor, fresh out of seminary and facing the harsh realities of his chosen profession.
I enjoyed getting to know Natalie and her siblings, as well as Jared, in this book, and viewing the Kansas prairie though the pages of this book. I highly recommend SEEDS OF SUMMER as well as the first book in the series. This is definitely an author to watch. A yummy sounding recipe, and a sample of Blades of Autumn, the third book in the series is included at the end of the book. $10.99. 304 pages.
Author: Deborah Vogts
Publisher: Zondervan
May 2010
ISBN: 978-0-310-29276-0
Inspirational/contemporary
Natalie Adams is a former rodeo queen, but now she’s a twenty-two year old orphan, left in charge of the family ranch, two younger half-siblings, and dying dreams of getting a college degree. Natalie doesn’t even know where to begin.
Jared Logan is a new pastor to the community, serving in his first parish. He repeatedly comes to Natalie’s rescue, but Natalie is loath to accept help from anyone—especially his. When the church resists Jared’s suggestion to change, and with his involvement with Natalie’s family, Jared begins to question his calling.
When Natalie’s absent step-mother suddenly reappears with her own plans, Natalie is forced to choose between her own desires or the needs of the family. What will it take for her to face her fears—to find a future and a hope?
SEEDS OF SUMMER is the second book in Ms. Vogts Seasons of the Tallgrass series, but it easily stands alone. Natalie, though still a very young adult, has a lot of challenges on her shoulders, more than most have at that age, but she seems quite capable. Jared is an idealist pastor, fresh out of seminary and facing the harsh realities of his chosen profession.
I enjoyed getting to know Natalie and her siblings, as well as Jared, in this book, and viewing the Kansas prairie though the pages of this book. I highly recommend SEEDS OF SUMMER as well as the first book in the series. This is definitely an author to watch. A yummy sounding recipe, and a sample of Blades of Autumn, the third book in the series is included at the end of the book. $10.99. 304 pages.
June 22, 2010
Seasons of the Tall Grass
Deborah Vogts
2010
Zondervan
Fiction/Contemporary
Reveiwed by Cindy Loven
Natalie Adams, a rodeo queen has life by the tail. She is the runner up in a national rodeo pageant, she is going to college, she has big dreams. That come to a screeching halt, when her father is killed in a freak tractor accident. Returning home to care for her younger brother and sister, she is overwhelmed. And even more so when she learns there is no money in the bank. Where can her father have left his money? He didn't trust banks, so obviously he had another plan to keep the money safe, but what was that plan? Dealing with their sorrow each in their own way, Natalie, Chelsey and Dillon all are grief struck and floundering trying to find a way to go forward. The new minister in town, seems to make the Adams family his own personal mission field. He helps them with farm chores, listens to their woes and makes himself an invaluable friend, but does he want more than that? Does Natalie want more than a friend from Pastor Jared?
This book was a great story. I was hooked from the front page to the end. I loved the way that Deborah really incorporated the love of the land both from Natalie and from Jared. Definitely a book to share with your friends and to keep in your permanent library. 308 pages US $10.99 5 stars
This book was provided for review purposes only.
Deborah Vogts
2010
Zondervan
Fiction/Contemporary
Reveiwed by Cindy Loven
Natalie Adams, a rodeo queen has life by the tail. She is the runner up in a national rodeo pageant, she is going to college, she has big dreams. That come to a screeching halt, when her father is killed in a freak tractor accident. Returning home to care for her younger brother and sister, she is overwhelmed. And even more so when she learns there is no money in the bank. Where can her father have left his money? He didn't trust banks, so obviously he had another plan to keep the money safe, but what was that plan? Dealing with their sorrow each in their own way, Natalie, Chelsey and Dillon all are grief struck and floundering trying to find a way to go forward. The new minister in town, seems to make the Adams family his own personal mission field. He helps them with farm chores, listens to their woes and makes himself an invaluable friend, but does he want more than that? Does Natalie want more than a friend from Pastor Jared?
This book was a great story. I was hooked from the front page to the end. I loved the way that Deborah really incorporated the love of the land both from Natalie and from Jared. Definitely a book to share with your friends and to keep in your permanent library. 308 pages US $10.99 5 stars
This book was provided for review purposes only.
February 28, 2011
Deborah Vogts’ first release Snow Melts in Spring was one of my favorite books, so I was excited to read the second in the Seasons of the Tall Grass Series.
Seeds of Summer opens with Natalie Adams facing a daunting task: Her father died in a tractor accident and the former rodeo queen must manage the ranch and care for her teenage brother and sister. Like any good Kansas girl, she’s stubborn and independent, but grudgingly accepts help from Jared Logan, who happens to be the new pastor in town. Jared is kind and persistent. He’s also attracted to Natalie, but shows his true character in fighting his feelings because he knows it would be inappropriate to have a relationship with her. This is a refreshing plot line for Christian fiction.
Just as Natalie seems to be getting on her feet, her step-mother, long presumed dead, shows up at the ranch. Natalie has so much to grieve and overcome, including giving up college and her rodeo career, that it was easy to empathize with her and understand the hardness in her heart. Jared was my favorite character, as the uncertain young minister gamely tried his hand at roping and discovered his own love for the land.
What I enjoy most about this series is that it relates so closely to life. It portrays the not-so-glamorous parts of ranch life, but also baling hay and fixing windmills.
Natalie and Jared both struggle and grow in their faith as they discover love in this book.
Seeds of Summer opens with Natalie Adams facing a daunting task: Her father died in a tractor accident and the former rodeo queen must manage the ranch and care for her teenage brother and sister. Like any good Kansas girl, she’s stubborn and independent, but grudgingly accepts help from Jared Logan, who happens to be the new pastor in town. Jared is kind and persistent. He’s also attracted to Natalie, but shows his true character in fighting his feelings because he knows it would be inappropriate to have a relationship with her. This is a refreshing plot line for Christian fiction.
Just as Natalie seems to be getting on her feet, her step-mother, long presumed dead, shows up at the ranch. Natalie has so much to grieve and overcome, including giving up college and her rodeo career, that it was easy to empathize with her and understand the hardness in her heart. Jared was my favorite character, as the uncertain young minister gamely tried his hand at roping and discovered his own love for the land.
What I enjoy most about this series is that it relates so closely to life. It portrays the not-so-glamorous parts of ranch life, but also baling hay and fixing windmills.
Natalie and Jared both struggle and grow in their faith as they discover love in this book.
June 14, 2010
Seeds of Summer is Deborah Vogts second book and you would never know it, you'd think she's been at it for years! I was impressed with her debut novel, Snow Melts in Spring but this is definitely my favorite. If you love a sweet love story centered around a family tragedy, an estranged mother, a stubborn heroine and a cute pastor you will more than likely enjoy this book. I breezed right through it in a few sittings and will probably read it again soon.
Natalie Adams the twenty something former rodeo queen contestant is suddenly saddled with raising a rebellious teenage sister and a little brother after the death of her father. If that isn't bad enough she also has to run the family ranch and deal with the presence of an absentee stepmother who decides to appear out of the blue. With only a few folks she can trust things are tough and trusting a newcomer in the form of a pastor is even more difficult.
All in all Seeds of Summer is a great contemporary Christian romance filled with faith, love, a few cattle and a cowboy or two. ;-) I look forward to reading Book 3, Blades of Autumn!
***Special thanks to Londa Alderink of Zondervan for sending me a review copy.***
Natalie Adams the twenty something former rodeo queen contestant is suddenly saddled with raising a rebellious teenage sister and a little brother after the death of her father. If that isn't bad enough she also has to run the family ranch and deal with the presence of an absentee stepmother who decides to appear out of the blue. With only a few folks she can trust things are tough and trusting a newcomer in the form of a pastor is even more difficult.
All in all Seeds of Summer is a great contemporary Christian romance filled with faith, love, a few cattle and a cowboy or two. ;-) I look forward to reading Book 3, Blades of Autumn!
***Special thanks to Londa Alderink of Zondervan for sending me a review copy.***
February 10, 2011
This is my second time reading this Author and she kept my interest and surprised me in some
chapters. Her style is much like what I prefer in the Christian fiction. Deborah Vogts is an
author that I will add to my list. The characters in the book are very believable just as stubborn
that we humans are, thinking we don't need God's help. This is a modern day story with lessons
to be learned and to remind us not to be judgmental. I can't think of a reason not to recommend
this book.
chapters. Her style is much like what I prefer in the Christian fiction. Deborah Vogts is an
author that I will add to my list. The characters in the book are very believable just as stubborn
that we humans are, thinking we don't need God's help. This is a modern day story with lessons
to be learned and to remind us not to be judgmental. I can't think of a reason not to recommend
this book.
July 8, 2010
This is going to be a short review, but that in no way reflects my opinion about this book.
I'll just say that I really enjoyed this book. The characters were realistic, the storyline was engaging, and in the end I was very pleased with how everything turned out. :) I would definitely recommend this book and the first one in this series.
I'll just say that I really enjoyed this book. The characters were realistic, the storyline was engaging, and in the end I was very pleased with how everything turned out. :) I would definitely recommend this book and the first one in this series.
June 21, 2010
This deserves 4 1/2 stars and possibly even 5. It has some of the richest characters and best use of setting that I've read in a while. I'll be putting together a full review soon for my blog - but I truly enjoyed this one. :o)
January 24, 2011
Great sequel to "Snow Melts in Spring". I really enjoyed it. What's not to love? Horses, Rodeo, Kansas, it has all the makings of a great book!
August 28, 2025
Horrible horrible horrible. I do not know why I even picked up this book but it's not worth the time. Poor character development, poor story line, writing is not engaging or particularly good. It is more of a read for a teen which is probably why I hated it. Natalie, oh my, she is so unlikeable, Jared, never mind him. Chelsea has potential, never realized of course. Dillon, also a character that could have been more worthy of a story than Natalie. Then Lilly shows up. Well, I do not want a story that is one where everybody gets what they want and the sky is blue and there are rainbows and unicorns. I did not know this is christian fiction. I do not recommend this book, would not recommend anything this author wrote or will write, pass it up for a story with character and substance.
December 19, 2022
This book was just as good as the “Snow melts in the Spring”. When I first started the book series I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this is the kind of books I love and the ones I find myself enjoying more and more. The details of everything that occurs in the book just makes you keep wanting to read. The author has done really well with this series and it is sad that the third book will not be getting written.
July 13, 2018
I thought that was a very good book. It was very clean and had a good plot. I also liked the characters. A very good read, quick-and I will pass it along to someone else who will enjoy it.
December 13, 2018
I liked this more than the first one. It was interesting seeing the relationship grow as it did.
August 30, 2021
While I was happy to see genuine Christian love displayed, I found this story to be unrealistic. No doubt that the struggles portrayed are real struggles, but it all just seemed fake.
August 3, 2024
I loved this book! I started this book and the plot immediately hooked me and I read the whole thing in a few days. Looking forward to more books from Deborah Vogts! 🤗
July 21, 2010
It seems that none of Natalie Adams’s hopes and dreams are working out for her these days. Just when she seems to have adjusted to her disappointment and sets new goals with a return to college, her father dies unexpectedly. Not only is she devastated, she has the sole responsibility of raising her half-brother and half-sister. She’s had to abandon yet another dream to make a go of her father’s ranch. Just when she thinks the burden of running a ranch can’t get any heavier, her step-mother, long believed to be dead, shows up suddenly wanting a relationship with her brother and sister. Is her step-mother sincere? Will Natalie be able to handle this burden on top of everything else with the ranch? She is a strong-willed and independent young woman and finds it difficult to lean on anyone else for help, including God. When the new pastor in town seems to have made her family his latest mission project, will she be able to accept the help from a man of God – the very same God that, in her eyes, abandoned her years ago?
Pastor Jared Logan, the newly ordained minister with a heart for God and serving others, comes to town and finds himself wanting to help Natalie and her family. While he struggles with his congregation’s resistance to change, he finds himself entrenched in the Adams family’s struggles. Despite being a city boy, he pitches in valiantly as he draws on the memories and skills taught him by his grandfather during summers spent with him on his farm. Jared has struggles of his own as he finds himself having feelings for Natalie. Can he protect his heart from a woman who has no room in her life for God? He has decisions to make. Has God really called him to the ministry?
Many times in our lives, circumstances seem unfair and our burdens too heavy to carry. But God never gives us more than we can handle as we lean on Him for guidance and strength. This poignant story portrays the lives of those who grieve, struggle, and question the circumstances of their lives. Deborah has shared with us a wonderful story of love, forgiveness, redemption, and faith. I enjoyed this book and found myself not wanting it to end. I’ll be marking my calendar, and I hope you will as well for the release of her third book in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series, Blades of Autumn, to be released in the summer of 2011.
Pastor Jared Logan, the newly ordained minister with a heart for God and serving others, comes to town and finds himself wanting to help Natalie and her family. While he struggles with his congregation’s resistance to change, he finds himself entrenched in the Adams family’s struggles. Despite being a city boy, he pitches in valiantly as he draws on the memories and skills taught him by his grandfather during summers spent with him on his farm. Jared has struggles of his own as he finds himself having feelings for Natalie. Can he protect his heart from a woman who has no room in her life for God? He has decisions to make. Has God really called him to the ministry?
Many times in our lives, circumstances seem unfair and our burdens too heavy to carry. But God never gives us more than we can handle as we lean on Him for guidance and strength. This poignant story portrays the lives of those who grieve, struggle, and question the circumstances of their lives. Deborah has shared with us a wonderful story of love, forgiveness, redemption, and faith. I enjoyed this book and found myself not wanting it to end. I’ll be marking my calendar, and I hope you will as well for the release of her third book in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series, Blades of Autumn, to be released in the summer of 2011.
July 9, 2015
Seeds of Summer reminds me of the Little House in the Prairie TV Series. Each week the stories were about family struggles and/or a budding romance that would grab the viewers’ attention as they watch the characters struggle with this new development in their lives. This was brought to a somewhat predictable conclusion and hopefully the characters learned something about family and what mattered most in life. The show gave you a good feeling and left you ready for the next week’s episode. I received a review copy of this light-hearted summer read by Deborah Vogts. It’s the second book in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series.
The story opens up with Natalie’s father dying unexpectedly. She returns home to raise her brother and sister, Dillion and Chelsey. She is faced with figuring out how to save the ranch her father left behind. How was she supposed to do that with very little income?
Then Jared, the new pastor in this small town, gets involved in Natalie’s life through her sister's troubles and notices this young twenty something girl trying to handle it all without any hope in her life. He offers to help where he can, but Natalie resists his help and the God that he serves.
Natalie’s circumstances take an unexpected turn when Libby shows up at her front door. The mother she thought was dead! Life starts unraveling at the seams. Natalie starts to consider Jared and Willard’s help. This novel shows a family struggling against the odds to stay afloat. Natalie and her siblings come to realize what’s important in life and what makes it worth living. Best of all, they learn the importance of family. This book leaves you with a good feeling and gets you ready for the third book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
The story opens up with Natalie’s father dying unexpectedly. She returns home to raise her brother and sister, Dillion and Chelsey. She is faced with figuring out how to save the ranch her father left behind. How was she supposed to do that with very little income?
Then Jared, the new pastor in this small town, gets involved in Natalie’s life through her sister's troubles and notices this young twenty something girl trying to handle it all without any hope in her life. He offers to help where he can, but Natalie resists his help and the God that he serves.
Natalie’s circumstances take an unexpected turn when Libby shows up at her front door. The mother she thought was dead! Life starts unraveling at the seams. Natalie starts to consider Jared and Willard’s help. This novel shows a family struggling against the odds to stay afloat. Natalie and her siblings come to realize what’s important in life and what makes it worth living. Best of all, they learn the importance of family. This book leaves you with a good feeling and gets you ready for the third book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
January 23, 2016
SEEDS OF SUMMER was a wonderful summer read, hitting on everything I like: ranch living, a stubborn heroine, and a gentlemanly hero. If you are a sucker for anything set in the west, you will love Deborah Vogts SEEDS OF SUMMER.
Natalie Adams’ life is no longer her own. Having to put aside her Rodeo Queen dreams, she must deal with the reality of life after her father’s sudden death. Once again in the role of mother to her younger brother and sister, she feels she’s in a no win situation. With her teenage sister, Chelsey rebelling at every turn, her brother, Dillon feeling the loss of his father, and the responsibility of maintaining the family ranch, she feels as if her world is closing in around her. But, she trudges on doing what she can to keep her head above water. When the new pastor in town befriends Dillon, and takes an interest in the Adam’s family, Natalie immediately resists his interference. But soon, she starts to lean on the help that Jared is so willing to give.
Jared feels an emotional pull to the Adam’s family, but deeper still a draw to Natalie. His attempts to expose her to the love of God falls on deaf ears, but he doesn’t allow that to interfere with his time spend with Dillon, or his helping out around the ranch. But, the more time he spends working the ranch, and with Natalie, has him questioning his current vocation. Would God really allow him to fall in love with someone who has no room for God in their life?
The characters were real, the scenery rich, and the story genuine. A book I couldn’t put down.
Book provided for review purposes.
Natalie Adams’ life is no longer her own. Having to put aside her Rodeo Queen dreams, she must deal with the reality of life after her father’s sudden death. Once again in the role of mother to her younger brother and sister, she feels she’s in a no win situation. With her teenage sister, Chelsey rebelling at every turn, her brother, Dillon feeling the loss of his father, and the responsibility of maintaining the family ranch, she feels as if her world is closing in around her. But, she trudges on doing what she can to keep her head above water. When the new pastor in town befriends Dillon, and takes an interest in the Adam’s family, Natalie immediately resists his interference. But soon, she starts to lean on the help that Jared is so willing to give.
Jared feels an emotional pull to the Adam’s family, but deeper still a draw to Natalie. His attempts to expose her to the love of God falls on deaf ears, but he doesn’t allow that to interfere with his time spend with Dillon, or his helping out around the ranch. But, the more time he spends working the ranch, and with Natalie, has him questioning his current vocation. Would God really allow him to fall in love with someone who has no room for God in their life?
The characters were real, the scenery rich, and the story genuine. A book I couldn’t put down.
Book provided for review purposes.
September 7, 2010
I think the author outdone all her previous books with this one. It isn't a book you can put down.
Natalie at the start is disappointed she never made rodeo queen - only runner-up. On top of that she has lost her Dad and is taking care of her brother and sister. In the midst of this Jared, the new minister, who moved to town is fishing when her brother, Dillion, comes upon him. While Natalie is looking for her brother she comes upon Jared. Reminds me of the first time I met my husband. I was mad too. Yet something caused a spark in Jared and he wanted to get to know this family better. He thinks he is just making them his Mission project and isn't counting on falling in love with Natalie.
I had to laugh about her Dad hiding money all over the house as growing up I knew a Pastor and his wife and the wife hid enough money all over the house, to keep her husband for 4 years after she passed away.
One thing I could definitely relate to was a teenagers rebellion. I remember well when my oldest rebelled for 3 years. At least Chelsey returned home sooner than 3 years. But they always call the one they know who loves them when they need someone.
I liked how God worked it out for Natalie to have the desire of her heart but only after she learned to turn to him. She finally got to reign as the Rodeo Queen because the Queen came down ill. The support of the family is something that is unique in spite of problems.
This book truly shows God's plans are not always what we think they are and we face disappointments in life. But he can make them a learning process.
Natalie at the start is disappointed she never made rodeo queen - only runner-up. On top of that she has lost her Dad and is taking care of her brother and sister. In the midst of this Jared, the new minister, who moved to town is fishing when her brother, Dillion, comes upon him. While Natalie is looking for her brother she comes upon Jared. Reminds me of the first time I met my husband. I was mad too. Yet something caused a spark in Jared and he wanted to get to know this family better. He thinks he is just making them his Mission project and isn't counting on falling in love with Natalie.
I had to laugh about her Dad hiding money all over the house as growing up I knew a Pastor and his wife and the wife hid enough money all over the house, to keep her husband for 4 years after she passed away.
One thing I could definitely relate to was a teenagers rebellion. I remember well when my oldest rebelled for 3 years. At least Chelsey returned home sooner than 3 years. But they always call the one they know who loves them when they need someone.
I liked how God worked it out for Natalie to have the desire of her heart but only after she learned to turn to him. She finally got to reign as the Rodeo Queen because the Queen came down ill. The support of the family is something that is unique in spite of problems.
This book truly shows God's plans are not always what we think they are and we face disappointments in life. But he can make them a learning process.
September 4, 2010
SEEDS OF SUMMER will take you into the Flint Hills, one of the last tallgrass prairie regions in the world, for a touching love story. Rodeo Queen Natalie Adams tries to conquer adversity on her own when she suffers disappointment, tragedy and broken family relationships. Jared Logan only wants to help, and although Natalie views the handsome young pastor with suspicion, she's in no position to turn down a helping hand. When their attraction grows, Jared holds to his principles and Natalie faces the God she rejected to go it alone.
Deborah Vogts vivid writing brings to life the gentle hills covered in bluestem, the wide-open skies of Kansas and the melding together of two hearts. I couldn't recommend this book more for women who enjoy contemporary romance. I approve this book for teens because of its wholesome relationships and its honest portrayal of the temptations and challenges teens face.
©2010 Janalyn Voigt
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me by the author for purposes of review.
Deborah Vogts vivid writing brings to life the gentle hills covered in bluestem, the wide-open skies of Kansas and the melding together of two hearts. I couldn't recommend this book more for women who enjoy contemporary romance. I approve this book for teens because of its wholesome relationships and its honest portrayal of the temptations and challenges teens face.
©2010 Janalyn Voigt
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me by the author for purposes of review.
May 10, 2016
I enjoyed "Seeds of Summer". One the back cover of the book it says “She must abandon her dreams…, He must fulfill his.” The story focuses on the lives of a former rodeo queen and a recent seminary graduate shepherding his first church.
The setting of the novel drew me in so that the story didn’t have to work to capture my attention. I love rodeo and horses and one of my fondest dreams involved living life on a ranch. Further, I love being in ministry, but have experienced my own journey of calling and can fully relate to Jared’s questions of struggle and sacrifice. Yet, beyond the setting, the characters came to life and engaged me with their struggles, questions, successes, failures and their search to find God leading them each and every step of the way.
Faith, forgiveness, restoration, hope and the knitting together of true friends and family make the "Seeds of Summer" a powerful, encouraging and engaging story.
See my profile for my star rating system.
The setting of the novel drew me in so that the story didn’t have to work to capture my attention. I love rodeo and horses and one of my fondest dreams involved living life on a ranch. Further, I love being in ministry, but have experienced my own journey of calling and can fully relate to Jared’s questions of struggle and sacrifice. Yet, beyond the setting, the characters came to life and engaged me with their struggles, questions, successes, failures and their search to find God leading them each and every step of the way.
Faith, forgiveness, restoration, hope and the knitting together of true friends and family make the "Seeds of Summer" a powerful, encouraging and engaging story.
See my profile for my star rating system.
February 20, 2011
I can't even imagine the difficult choices Natalie Adams faced when her father died unexpectedly. Natalie had plans for herself, but when her father dies she feels responsible to take on the farm and her two half-siblings. I felt the conflicting emotions running through Natalie and understood her uncertainty of the future. But God had plans for her that she had not foreseen, and they played out so beautifully as she kept finding herself wherever Jared happened to be. Jared was unsure of what the future held for him, but thought he knew what he wanted it to be. Between the two of them, they had some things to figure out with the help of the Lord, and a journey that brought them to a place they could not have imagined. This was a good read with yet again another determined woman with strength of character. I loved it and look forward to more in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series.
August 11, 2011
Seeds of Summer offers a glimpse into the world of rodeo with heroine Natalie Adams, rodeo queen runner-up. When Natalie’s father is killed in an accident on the ranch, Natalie returns to take over the ranch and raise her two half-siblings, but teenage Chelsey doesn’t appreciate her sister’s efforts.
The town’s new, young pastor is drawn to Natalie and tries to help her by taking her young brother fishing and keeping reins on Chelsey, but everything comes to a head when Chelsey and Dillon’s mother walks in many years after she’d abandoned the family. Natalie feels she is the only one who can see through her step-mom’s wiles, but the young pastor, Jared, stays by her as they work through the challenges of this dysfunctional family.
While I didn’t enjoy this book quite as much as the first of Deborah Vogt’s (Snow Melts in Spring) this is a solidly written story with interesting twists.
The town’s new, young pastor is drawn to Natalie and tries to help her by taking her young brother fishing and keeping reins on Chelsey, but everything comes to a head when Chelsey and Dillon’s mother walks in many years after she’d abandoned the family. Natalie feels she is the only one who can see through her step-mom’s wiles, but the young pastor, Jared, stays by her as they work through the challenges of this dysfunctional family.
While I didn’t enjoy this book quite as much as the first of Deborah Vogt’s (Snow Melts in Spring) this is a solidly written story with interesting twists.
January 11, 2017
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Seeds of Summer is the second book in the Seasons of the Tall Grass series by Deborah Vogts. Natalie and Jared are pretty opposite in almost every way. Natalie is broken. Jared has it all together. Well, for the most part. Poor Natalie has had a lot of responsibility thrust upon her..not to mention the loss that she and her family are coping with with the death of their father. She's a strong woman though. She's a survivor, and she'll do anything for her siblings. I love the sense of community in this book. The setting and people make it sound like a lovely place to live. This is an entertaining and light read. I've enjoyed both books in this series so far. My fingers are crossed that this author writes more!
February 7, 2014
In Seeds of Summer, Deborah Vogts shows that the best way to face our fears is through faith. Natalie is forced to confront the faith she turned away from as a child, while Jared wrestles with his motives for becoming a pastor. Vogts also tackles the complicated issue of mixed faith relationships.
Seeds of Summer sticks to the classic boy-meets-girl plot. While the plotline and conversations felt cheesy at times, I still enjoyed this easy read. I recommend Seeds of Summer to anyone looking for a good, clean romance with Christian values.
Review copy provided by publisher.
Seeds of Summer sticks to the classic boy-meets-girl plot. While the plotline and conversations felt cheesy at times, I still enjoyed this easy read. I recommend Seeds of Summer to anyone looking for a good, clean romance with Christian values.
Review copy provided by publisher.
September 22, 2015
This was the second in a series by Vogts. This had one is also set in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Natalie is faced with many conflicts with the death of her father and with her responsibilities. Jared, a new pastor in the area, also has his own set of conflicts. Ranching, religion, love, raising teenagers, and life are all a part of this book. The only problem I see is that I can not find that her 3rd book in the series has been published?
July 5, 2010
This is a true-to-life family drama. I loved the rodeo background--it added depth and interest to the story. For my full review, please visit my blog at http://www.annshorey.blogspot.com/
Thanks for Zondervan for providing my copy for review purposes.
Thanks for Zondervan for providing my copy for review purposes.
January 28, 2016
3* Another fun story set in the Flint Hills of Kansas... a has-been rodeo queen has to take over the ranch and look after 2 siblings when her father is killed unexpectedly. And the hero who saves the day is an unlikely young pastor.
January 27, 2015
3 1/2 stars. This isn't normally the genre I read, but I found myself drawn into the story. Says a lot for the author. A nice story for lovers of the American West, as well as those who enjoy a good romance novel.
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