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They lied to her.

The victim of her father’s sexual assault, eighteen-year-old Sage Hoffman bought into the lie that what she carried was just a clump of cells. Nine years later she’s haunted by the sound of a tiny heartbeat she never knew existed. God forgave her. But can she find the strength to forgive herself by helping others understand the truth?

He blames himself.

When Levi Tillis’s twin sister took her own life, he lost his best friend and found his life’s passion. He will be the voice of truth in the sea of abortion lies, determined that no other woman will live with the guilt that drove his sister to her grave.

Hidden truths and unrealistic expectations.

Levi deserves to know the truth about the woman he’s falling in love with. But if Sage finds the courage to share her past, will he see her broken heart or will he reject her, seeing her as just another example of a woman who tossed a life aside on the altar of convenience? They’re working together to save others, but can they find the grace to save themselves?

196 pages, ebook

Published May 1, 2023

23 people are currently reading
79 people want to read

About the author

Sharon Srock

44 books299 followers
Small-town Oklahoma and the friendships they produce are embedded in Sharon Srock’s heart. After spending her first fifteen years on the move, living in fourteen homes and attending thirteen schools, she landed in a tiny central Oklahoma community and made it her own. As someone who’s been blessed to be a part of the same hometown church for more than five decades, Sharon writes stories of hope built from her own unique perspective—stories that demonstrate a sisterhood formed not by blood but by heart, where ordinary women are able to do extraordinary things thanks to the friends who surround them and the faith that pulls them through. Sharon still lives in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma, with her husband and three very large dogs. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, cook, and travel. One of these days, she’s going to figure out how to do all three at the same time.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Cheri Swalwell.
Author 72 books61 followers
April 24, 2023
I read Sage, by Sharon Srock. This is book 5 in the Crafted by Love series, which ties in with her whole Valley View series. I love how different she portrays each character. I also had to laugh at something Alex said, the pastor’s wife and also a friend of Sage’s. She was getting ready to share something funny about her children, but before she shared it, she said, “If you tell anyone, I’ll deny ever saying it.” Coming from the pastor’s wife admitting she was going to lie about something struck my funny bone because it’s something I say among friends too, and it just made me feel that much more part of the Valley View community. Sage’s book dealt with some tough topics but all in a way that glorified God and brought hope, redemption, forgiveness and grace to the characters and possibly to people who read the book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to review it. All opinions are mine.
Profile Image for Rebekah Morris.
Author 119 books269 followers
May 8, 2023
3.5 stars
This book dealt with some really tough topics such as a father raping his daughter, abortion and suicide, but it was all done in a way that wasn’t graphic, didn’t put vivid pictures in my head, and gave hope and peace. Sage and Holly were such sweet sisters. Both just being there for each other and also saying hard things when they needed said.
I did like the focus on pro-life even after Roe was overturned.
There was some kissing, but really nothing descriptive.
Profile Image for Sharon Srock.
Author 44 books299 followers
Read
March 30, 2023
Early review from a reader...

Trying to live with the decision she made as a naive 18 year old, Sage Hoffman has found true love with Levi Tillis. However, she is afraid that her secret will kill that love. Levi Tillis holds demons from his past as well. Losing his twin sister made a powerful impact to his path. Vowing to be the voice of truth in a web of lies, he tries to save women from the guilt of decisions often made in desperation. Will the secrets held be the undoing of their love? Will each be able to forgive themselves and each other? As truths unfold, Sage and Levi will fight to find the truth, forgiveness, and grace.
This story is a powerful read! You won't be disappointed.
1,009 reviews34 followers
April 22, 2023
Sage knows she is forgiven, but can she ever forgive herself? Levi carries guilt following his sister's death, and is trying to work it out by fighting abortion - but in his passion, he can't always see when others are hurting. They care for each other, but will Sage ever be willing to open up to Levi about her past - and will he forgive her if she does? And can Levi learn to face his own demons rather than trying to earn forgiveness?

A brave, thought-provoking look at the effects of abortion in people's lives - for better and worse. It's also an inspiring look at forgiveness of ourselves and others. Better yet, the message is presented in a touching story about characters that feel like real people and people I enjoyed getting to know. I've loved every book I've read by the author, and this was definitely no exception. While there are definitely hard times and difficult things to work through, there is support from family and friends, as well as from God. In this case, I particularly loved the hospital bed scene - just so touching. I also appreciated the relationship between Holly and Sage - such a lovely example of what siblings can be like. All in all, a great story and I'm looking forward to the next book already!

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
1,070 reviews23 followers
April 19, 2023
I know that I don't have the words to come close to describing how much I love this book, but I'll try. I was able to put this book down, but it was 3:25 AM, so that should tell you a lot. Leaving Sage and Levi in a mess was very difficult as author Sharon Srock makes the characters come to life. I caught myself (more than once) praying for them! I enjoy reading about the friendships among the crafters and the wise mentoring done by the senior pastor and his wife at Levi and Sage's church. Levi and Sage learn forgiving oneself is hard to do, but very necessary for them. (Yes, there's an HEA, and it's fabulous.) I highly recommend this book, especially to readers who enjoy books with MORE than a fluffy romance, as Sage will give its readers lots to think about.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this extremely well-written addition to the Crafted with Love series.
Profile Image for Emily Flynn.
476 reviews15 followers
May 14, 2023
The story of Sage was a respectful, well-written book about a very difficult subject. The problems are organic and the relationship growth was as well.

Sharon Srock has done a wonderful job with this group of friends. The faith building experiences and the individual stories of these ladies are raw and real. I have enjoyed every word of this book and felt what they are feeling. I love the indications of God's love and how that is portrayed.

If you are looking for a faith building story, look no further. Both main characters are faced with some strong demons from their pasts and both find ways to grow and develop in the story. It felt natural and that is the best way for the stories to unfold. I love a story that feels real but still allows me to escape to a world that is just a little better than I know.

I will continue to read these books. I was given an early copy by the author and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Judy.
3,295 reviews
May 22, 2023
Sage by Sharon Srock
Crafted With Love Series Book Five
Sage Hoffman has secrets. Some that even her sister, Holly, doesn’t know. Secrets never stay buried, and Sage’s are coming to the surface quickly. Her life seemed to be heading to a beautiful future. And now, all seems lost.
Levi Tillis is the assistant pastor. He has secrets too. Some drive him to do what God is leading him to do. For instance, getting the funds to buy a mobile unit that can travel around Garfield and the surrounding towns and cater to pregnant women. If they can see the ultrasound of the baby’s heartbeat, most will not get the abortion. Only his plans are failing. As is his relationship with Sage.
Another heart-warming story from Garfield, Oklahoma. If you cry easily, tissue alert. I enjoy Sharon’s stories so much. They aren’t fluffy and comfortable…they are more of real-life issues.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Profile Image for Bonnie Blackledge.
424 reviews28 followers
May 2, 2023
From the time we meet Sage, we are aware that she is fighting a past from which she can’t forgive herself. Her boyfriend, Levi, is also facing memories of his past that have driven him to work to gather donations for a mobile ultrasound unit in honor of his sister. Instead of sharing their past experiences with each other, the two of them allow these memories to come between them.
Sharon Srock knows how to write a great story, one that shows a side of life that isn’t perfect but filled with troubled relationships and mistakes. She creates likable characters who aren’t all bad, but have some problems they need to work through. In the midst of this, she shows people loving God and living their faith.
Each book Srock writes seems to be better than the last. I totally loved the story of Sage and Levi and hope to see more of them as I read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Sharon Dean.
312 reviews14 followers
March 24, 2023
Being back in Garfield, OK was a welcome treat but oh boy, I was not ready for this! Sage’s story is one of the most powerful I’ve read in quite a while. The power of God’s love shown on each and every page. From a very scarred past to twists I did not see coming, from building a future from nothing, from falling in love to have devastation land at each turn, from the bonds of a family to those broken. The feels did not end! You will happy cry, you will sad cry. Sage and Levi’s story is very emotional but the end is one you don’t want to miss. To be reminded that no matter how broken we are, to no matter what mistakes we’ve made, to no matter what path we choose, Levi said it best…..God knew, from the day we were born and He loves us anyway!
902 reviews
April 2, 2023
Sage...Oh how my heart aches for Sage and all she has gone through in her life. Having dead beat parents to the most awful thing you could think a "Father" could do to you happened to sweet Sage. She is filled with guilt and shame that she should not feel, but those who have been raped all understand what that is like. She wants a relationship with Levi...dear Levi working in the church and striving to help stop abortion. He is against everything that Sage did, but the story doesn't stop there. I can't reveal all that occurred, or it would take away from this great book. Thank you Sharon for allowing me to read this book. I know every time I say that is the best you have written and yet again you did it again. Thank you for allowing me to read this book for my honest review :)
541 reviews
April 11, 2023
One thing I will say about Sharon Srock is that she is not afraid to tackle the hard, ugly topics that affect so many people. But she does it in the most Godly way, showing the grace and goodness that can follow the most horrific of circumstances. The characters in this book touched my heart and gave me a glimpse of how far the implications and guilt of a bad decision can affect someone's life. It also demonstrated the love and mercy that Christians are called to extend to those who are struggling. All of her books include characters who are in need of a closer relationship with God as well as the Christians they interact with. It is such a great example of how we should react if we are ever in a similar situation.
182 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2023
Levi and Sage are falling in love but they have a part of their past they haven’t shared with each other. Sage knows Levi is passionate about saving women and their babies but she doesn’t know the real reason why.
Sage knows God has forgiven her for what she did but she doesn’t think Levi could ever forgive her if he knew. Can they both with Gods help be honest with each other and together use their experiences to help others?
Highly recommend the newest book in the Ladies of Garfield series. It is a story of love , forgiveness and an example of how God can use us and our mistakes for good.
23 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2023
"Sage"(Crafted with Love Book 5) is an intense book by Sharon Srock. Abortion is an intense issue, which she handles with skill and devotion.
Sage is falling in love, but a medical condition threatens to end her romance. He is determined to establish a memorial for his deceased twin sister. Knowing his beliefs, she is torn between confessing to her boyfriend about her childhood and dark secrets, or simply ending their relationship.
When he pops the question, she knows she cannot accept without telling him everything. If she tells all, he will no longer want to marry her. With a broken heart, she ends their relationship, but he won't give up.
I recommend the whole "Crafted with Love " series for the moving stories and the author's empathy in the handling of difficult subjects.
27 reviews2 followers
May 28, 2023
A most beautiful read!

Oh my! This was an excellent story - one showing exactly what God can do, if we only listen and get out of our own way.
I absolutely loved this book in the Crafted with Love series.
Having read Holly’s story made me very curious about Sage and Sharon Srock you did not disappoint with this story. Thank you for making me laugh and cry, for helping me see things from a different perspectives and showing Gods amazing grace so clearly!
You have an incredible gift Sharon - thank you for sharing it with us. I am looking forward to reading Piper in the near future.
139 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2023
Walk in God’s Forgiveness

Why do we still see ourselves as guilty even though we know that Jesus gave His life to save us? Why do we still see our brokenness instead of the new creature we became when we accepted Jesus? Why do we give our past sin power to bind us rather than bringing it to the Light thereby enabling God’s forgiveness to break the chains of bondage? Sage shoved Levi out of her life rather than sharing a secret she was sure would cause him to walk away. Levi, too, had carried a guilt so deep that it drove him to atone for what God had already forgiven him of. Can they stop letting their guilt keep them apart?
Definitely read this book l!
Profile Image for Carol.
17 reviews4 followers
March 28, 2023
I’ve read every book in the Ladies of Garfield and each time I read the new one it quickly becomes my favorite!! Sage continues that for me. It’s my new favorite book in this series! Sharon tackles hard topics that are in our society today. This time it’s abortion. Sage knows God has forgiven her, but she’s having a hard time forgiving herself and she doesn’t think Levi will forgive her either. Levi on the other hand is working hard to prove he’s worthy of God’s forgiveness. What a ride! Another great story of forgiveness and redemption, Sharon!
Profile Image for Robin Willson.
688 reviews23 followers
June 7, 2023
Present times. The story centers on pro-life, what it does to people who don't see a pregnancy through, different situations in life that are so difficult to go through. This is so well written that it's excruciating to go through with her the feelings that Sage has and her life. The saving grace is our faith that sees us through the storms. A story that should be shared!

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#Sage #SharonSrock #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianFiction
Profile Image for Deanna Mosier.
30 reviews4 followers
March 17, 2023
Sharon Srock’s Ladies of Garfield series tackles some very difficult topics and this one is about abortion. It is handled very tactfully and with much prayer surrounding the discussions in the book. I really enjoyed Sage’s story. I’ve read several in this series and intend to catch up on all the rest. These ladies, crafters, Christian friends, are women after God’s own heart and you can’t help but love every one of them! Excellent!
86 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2023
I enjoyed reading Sage the newest book in the Crafted with Love series. I finished reading it in less than three hours. It was a story that was very emotionally charged for the world we live in today. I can't imagine the grief associated with this story. Bless you Sharon for writing this book. This book needs to be made available to Churches and Women's Health Clinics.
I received an advance copy of this book for supplying the Author with a review.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,650 reviews15 followers
April 19, 2023
Sage

I could feel the characters emotions. Sage and Holly had a hard childhood, they overcome so much. I loved Sage and Levi story. Sage and Levi had secrets, will they be able to get past them? I really hope to see more about them in future stories of this series. Sage was an amazing character.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Joan Arning.
1,773 reviews28 followers
May 2, 2023
I loved this story of learning to accept God's grace and forgive yourself. Sage is an excellent protagonist who has a secret in her past. She loves Levi but is afraid he won't accept her if she tells the truth. Levi blames himself for his sister's death and is working to bring good out of it. Sharon Srock has written another emotional book of overcoming the past. You won't want to miss reading Sage! I received an advance e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
2,096 reviews19 followers
February 16, 2025
Insightful

It was good to finally read Sage's story. Her and Holly's story sure was tough. Interesting that they both date ministers. It's like life really, a whole mess until you ask God what His plan is and follow His directions. Love the loving support of the Crafers. Nearly better than family. A good read with an outstanding ending. Good to be reminded that God loves and forgives us.
Profile Image for Jeanette Durkin.
1,593 reviews49 followers
March 21, 2023
Wow! More than 5 stars! This is a fabulous book! The story is amazing! The characters are wonderful and relatable! The theme of forgiveness is prevalent in the entire book! Sharon touches on the subject of abortion- she does it so well. There is no judgment or condemnation, just hope. A definite must read!
I was provided a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,648 reviews3 followers
May 2, 2023
This is a book you don't want to miss! It's full of emotions and you can feel every one of them. Sage and Levi's story will stay with you long after you turn the last page. I loved it and highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
733 reviews
February 26, 2025
Living with the consequences of her father's sin.

This story is filled with emotions as two sisters were
abused and neglected by their parents. There's a young pastor who is troubled by something in his past, he falls in love with the older sister. It's interesting to see how the story unfolds especially as it deals with one of today's leading horrors.
712 reviews
March 20, 2023
Book 5 features the bond between sisters and how they stick together through thick and thin. When you follow God’s plan, you can’t go wrong. I recommend this book to all who love contemporary Christian fiction.
14 reviews
May 2, 2023
Sage deals with some tough topics but is very well written. I could feel the pain Sage was feeling and the frustration and heart of Levi. There are many ups and downs in this emotional read. I loved visiting Valley View again to see how the other characters are doing. Great read!
123 reviews1 follower
May 4, 2023
Loved it. Sage and Levi. Loved their story. When you take a stance on something, you need to be understanding of humans and their circumstances. Such a delicate topic and handled perfectly.
Great story.
1,840 reviews24 followers
May 5, 2023
forgiven and free

Sometimes it can be hard to let go of the shame of the past. Praise God that He forgives us. We can walk in that forgiveness and be who He made us to be. Well done!
Profile Image for Bruce Dinsman.
1,556 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2024
WOW - Great Story
With lots of grist for the mill, how many lives have been saved simply because we stood up and said “enough”? My thanks to the author for dealing well with a sensitive topic and how God had a hand in it all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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