Review: Borrowed Sunshine - Hilton Head Island #2

Borrowed Sunshine book cover on blue background

I got to read Borrowed Sunshine by Ivy Emerson before Christmas, and it has lingered in my mind ever since then as an excellent Christian book that points to Jesus Christ. For anyone seeking a book where God is clearly referenced and He guides the story, the Hilton Head Island series has become one of my favourites.

For full disclosure, I was a beta reader for this book; however, all opinions are my own and were formed upon my initial reading.

Book Synopsis

I've always wanted people to like me…
I craved their approval...
Now, I am tangled in a mess, with no idea how to escape…
Everything feels better at the beach...
So, I steal away for a two-week vacation on Hilton Head Island…
Except... he is here.

I've always wanted to be alone…
I've seen firsthand how cruelly life can snatch away those you love…
I would rather stay alone than endure another loss…
My plan is simple: Stay single and avoid making new friends…
My plan was perfect…
Except... she is here.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

Based on the initial interactions that Weston and Becky had in Kayak Girl, I knew they would end up being a great couple that would challenge each other to become better people. Am I ever grateful that I didn't have to wait long to read their story! In fact, having both books about these sisters back-to-back made for a special reading experience. There are elements that are discussed in both that provide an amazing picture into their sisterly bond and how they care for one another, despite the unique challenges that they face. With Becky's story, it's refreshing to have her seek the best for others while working through her fears and financial issues. I love that she and Weston aren't afraid to sharpen each other out of love and that they continually point to God in their interactions.

While Ivy doesn't shy away from the difficulties of life, such as grief, abuse, and family pain, she is skilled at painting a picture of hope for readers. I found that each chapter grabbed my attention and had me reading non-stop to see how Weston and Becky would grow in their faith and understanding of God. This book excels at communicating the truth of our identity in Christ and infuses gentle humour along the way. Readers will enjoy the spiritual transformations that take place and the supporting characters that play a part in this heartwarming story. One of the signs that I'm immersed in a good book is that even if I don't have much in common with the characters (I'm definitely not an athlete), I can still picture myself having a conversation with them. Although I'll have to wait a little longer for the next book in this series, I know that it will be worth the wait!

Book Summary

Format of book: 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Review: Shadowing You - The Wright Heroes of Maine #10

For Camp CCR , hosted by the Clearly Christian Readathon , I thought I would make my way to the Rescue Ridge campsite for romantic suspense and thrillers (earning this lovely badge ), and read Shadowing You by Robin Patchen . Taking place in China, terrifying circumstances are ratcheted up several levels with vendettas and technology creating a nearly insurmountable setting for the main characters. This book certainly left me breathless, dreading what could come next in a series of death-defying actions. Many thanks to NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Content to be aware of : marital dishonesty, violence, death Book Synopsis When the wife he believed dead calls from China, an ER doctor races to find her before her enemies silence her forever. Ethan Wright never recovered from the death of his first love. Six years ago, Mei Lin discovered evidence linking powerful officials to a human trafficking ring. Sh...

Review: Emotional Hoarding

The topic of home organization appeals to me where, in reflecting our orderly God and Creator, it is nice to be in a calming environment. This book takes that sense of physical space and translates it to our emotional space, helping us clear out the debris that may be taking us away from what God wants for us to experience. Emotional Hoarding by Laurie Davies is gentle without diminishing the pain that can accompany such a state of mind, making it a useful primer on a myriad of feelings that can have us staying down. Many thanks to Moody Publishers for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Content to be aware of : references to Brené Brown and Mark Batterson Book Synopsis We could live free, but cleaning house is hard. Emotional baggage is trendy. We might even joke about it. Yet, one of the early English definitions of luggage is anything of more weight than value. Let that sink in. When we collect, stack, and stockpile b...

Review: Still Judas - Dear Judas #2

I have been anticipating Still Judas by James Finke for some time after reading Dear Judas , a modern-day version of the Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. Coupled with a narrative that brings the epistolary content to life, Dear Judas is a series that merges a fictional couple with non-fiction truth in a unique way. This book picks up after Tommy Finch's life is changed, and it is ideal for Christians who are established in the faith and yet may be reticent to share their beliefs. Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis Real spiritual warfare unfolds quietly in offices, living rooms, hospital rooms, and everyday conversations where believers decide whether to speak or stay silent. Tommy Finch survived cardiac arrest, encountered the reality of eternity, and gave his life to Jesus. But after his conversion, he slipped into something dangerously comfortable. He attends church. He prays...