Research librarian Savannah Sanderson wants nothing more than to escape into her happily-ever-after novels with their larger-than-life fictional heroes. But a promise to her late husband has her attending her dreaded twenty-year high school reunion, drinking ghastly punch, and taking desperate measures just to keep her vow, even if she has to hide behind the décor to do it.Once a reckless … reckless troublemaker, Michael McCann fled town after graduation. Now a professional technical rescuer, he’s back for the reunion, but on his trip down memory lane, he soon comes face to face with unresolved issues, namely Savannah.
Before the night is over, a pact between these two old friends will lead them on an adventure into uncharted emotional territory where Michael must confront his past regrets and find the courage to reveal the truth. But can Savannah fly from her sheltered nest and risk her heart on a real-life hero?
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I thoroughly enjoyed reading A Promise To Keep by Melony Teague. The story begins at the class reunion of Savannah Sandersson and Micheal McCann. They have not seen each other in 15 years and they meet again at their high school reunion and then decide to make some new memories. Savannah and Micheal are wonderful characters you want to connect with. The story follows their adventures and shows us how they make peace with their past, and create a new future. I was very drawn into the story and cheered for them both.
Melony Teague has the gift of painting pictures with her words and helping you to easily visualize the story. Her descriptions kept me engaged and enjoying the story. Her secondary characters were interesting and well developed. I was sad when the story ended.
I truly enjoyed each minute I spent reading A Promise To Keep. It is a great contemporary read and one that appeals to a wide audience. The story is one of grace, love, and holding on to the moments you have. I highly recommend A Promise To Keep.
I was given a copy by the publisher, but not required to write a review.
A Promise to Keep, the debut novel for this author, was a very enjoyable second chance story. I really enjoyed watching as Michael and Savannah reconnected, especially as they spent time together in the days after the reunion, both around their hometown and also up into Canada. The author did a good job of capturing the nervousness of both characters as they worked to get to know each other again.
Michael’s long standing feelings for Savannah made him such a likable character, who I couldn’t help but feel for. Savannah had so much to get past emotionally after all that she had experienced in losing her husband. I kept wanting her to make bigger steps in her progress toward living again, yet her hesitancy to accept risk did make sense, too.
I enjoyed this contemporary romance and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Author Melony Teague has written an absolutely wonderful contemporary romance debut. Teague writes from deep within the heart, bringing so many emotions into her story and characters, everything between joy and sorrow, as well as humor and a delightfully sweet and swoony love story. The characters are realistically brought to live, making it easy for readers to relate to them and quickly fall in love with them. This is the type of story that will cause readers to soar, making it extremely hard to put down even after the last page is turned. Readers will definitely want to be on the lookout for more fabulous stories from this wonderful author!
Genre: contemporary, romance
Publisher: Anaiah Press
Publication date: January 21, 2020
Number of pages: 338
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Wow! What a great debut novel!!
This is an author to watch out for in the future. I can tell that this style of writing came straight from the heart!! It just flowed from her pen.
Reading about Michael and Savannah was great!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this!!
Michael is proof of someone that can change and change he did! And according to Savannah a lot!! There’s a certain glow about him and it suited him well. I think he’s still kinda awkward but then most of us are in certain situations and people can make us that way too!!
Savannah is a little timid in my opinion. But after what she’s went through who can blame her. Grief can do that to a person. It has no time limit. You’ll always miss that person.
I thought that this was a wonderful story with of course great characters and a swell plot with a 20 year reunion as the backdrop.
I’ve never been to one of my reunions nor do I intend to. To me, they’re the same snobby bunch that will never change and I never cared for them when going to school. Plus, it’s expensive.
I did snicker at some of the things Michael and Savannah did and there is a scene that did make me sniffle a time or two.
I didn’t put this book down until I was finished.
This book is highly recommended from me.
I wish I could give it more than 5 stars.
My thanks to the author/publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Melony is the master of characters, beautiful prose, and engaging story. Well worth a read!
Melony Teague’s debut romance novel, “A Promise to Keep,” is not only charming and easy to read, but it is also filled with characters who are less than perfect (translation: highly relatable), moments of fabulously frustrating tension (translation: real-life stuff), and just enough spice to make me want to burn candles and make a special dinner for my sweetie pie (self-explanatory). Seriously well-written and covering some down-to-earth decision-making moments that surely held this reader’s attention. “A Promise to Keep” has a soft Christian undertone that is pleasing and when the main characters, Savannah and Michael, finally, finally, finally … (well I don’t want to spoil the surprise), it just made me smile and greatly relieved that Savannah’s “crippling fear’ of living again was overcome with the fabulously patient, risk-taking, and charmingly witty, Michael. I highly recommend Melony’s first novel (and am highly anticipating another great read from this new author!)
A lovely contemporary romance, with adorable and sometime hilarious moments, a touch of suspense, and uplifting inspiration. Full of deep emotion, action and adventure. What more could one want from a book?
This is the author’s debut novel. And wow, what a read. There are so many parts that I loved about this book, the cover, the characters, the setting, etc. etc. etc. Honestly you’ll just have to read the book for yourself.
Kudos to Melony Teague on her debut novel! It is an enjoyable read with lovely characters and a nicely paced plot that flows well. The author addresses the bottomless pain and grief of losing a spouse to cancer but balances out the tragic with frequent moments of humor, levity, and quirkiness as well as some heady adrenaline-rush at certain parts of the story.
The story opens with Savannah, a widow still deep in her grief, and Michael attending their 20th high school reunion. They have a long history together but haven’t kept up in the last 20 years so they decide to rekindle their friendship and build some new memories. Unfortunately, Savannah’s unfounded fears and Michael’s self-doubt and insecurity drive them apart until they finally learn what it means to surrender their all to God and live life to the fullest. Savannah and Michael are complete opposites but it’s endearing how he sacrifices so much to bring her happiness and new experiences. Michael’s love for Savannah is steadfast, loyal, and incredibly heart-warming. Savannah’s fears and anxiety are over-the-top but understandable to a degree. Michael’s adrenaline-filled work as a rescuer juxtaposes quite nicely with Savannah’s research-filled days as a university librarian.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with humor and insight, you will enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from Anaiah Press and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
A Promise to Keep by Melony Teague is the kind of contemporary romance that will stay with its readers for a long time!
One of my favorite parts of A Promise to Keep was the adventure Savannah and Michael took! The author did an amazing job bringing these settings to life. Additionally, I loved how even when the road trip adventure was over, the adventure of the story surprised and delighted me! Getting to see Michael in his hero environment added a level of surprising intensity to the story that reminded me of a Susan May Warren novel!
Michael is such a wonderful hero! He’s got that unrequited swoony factor in abundance, and his love for Savannah is so steadfast. And Savannah — well, not even Savannah’s grief could stop this fun and quirky character from leaping off the page! While the author tackles potentially triggering topics like cancer, death, and grief, the author does this with skill, tact, and realness. I greatly appreciated how the characters were so real in their emotions and struggles as they navigated these heartaches. I liked that it took work and courage to overcome their fears. And I loved how God’s love shined through these perfectly imperfect characters!
Five Stars ~ A Promise to Keep by Melony Teague is a charming and heart-tugging romance! I look forward to reading whatever story the author pens next!
Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Promise to Keep
By Melony Teague
Attending her high school reunion is the last thing Savannah Sanderson wanted to do, but she made a promise. And she wasn’t about to break the promise she made to her late husband. But she’d rather stay among the stacks of books that help hide her away from most of the world.
Michael McCann left Point High after graduation and before his best friends got married. He couldn’t stand to see the girl he loved getting married. But he never told Savannah how he felt and then Nick won her heart. And he’s never found anyone who could measure up to Savannah.
Could their 20 year HS reunion be a second chance or will the prison that Savannah has created for herself keep her from living life? A Promise to Keep is a book that will keep the reader hoping that Savannah will become the person she used to be. One who realizes that risks are a part of life. And that without small risks one cannot truly live. But even more one hopes that she can recapture the faith that she once held to so tightly, a faith that she has let slip away to pain and anger.
Those who like heart-warming reads and Love Inspired books will enjoy this offering from Melony Teague. The characters are likable and one can see both Savannah and Michael’s viewpoints as they embrace the unexpected and unplanned detour that life has just handed them. What would you risk for a second chance at love? This is the question that both must themselves and sometimes the answer is one that means a major change in life, thought, and heart.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion – all thoughts expressed are my own.
This book is absolutely wonderful!! It is a beautifully written story about second chances. Keep a box of tissue handy, you will need them. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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Teague has given readers a beautifully written story in A Promise to Keep. The characters are relatable, emotional, realistic, and easy to love. My heart went out to Savannah immediately. I couldn’t imagine going to a reunion, simply becuase she promised her late husband. And yet she did, thankfully! Her character had so much to go through before she could move on with her life, and it was such a joy watching her go through the grief process, and grow as a character.
Enter Michael on the scene, who provided some comedic relief that had me giggling. He was perfect for Savannah – and the way he “rescued” her at the reunion – well you’re just going to have to read that for yourself. It was well written and delightfully entertaining. The adventure they went on together after that was just what both of them needed. Teague did a great job in having a steady pace for their love story, it did not feel rushed at all.
I loved the setting of the story – mainly because it’s in my neck of the woods, but still, it drew me in. I could picture everything vividly, and almost started driving the couple hour drive so I could see the places Teague was describing.
What a stunning debut novel by Melony Teague. With romance, fun, adventure, and humor, A Promise to Keep has a little something for everyone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A great debut novel!
Fear had left Savannah paralyzed – unable to truly live life. And Michael’s life was spent overcoming fear. As a search-and-rescue specialist, he was constantly putting himself in danger to save others from it.
A Promise to Keep shows Savannah’s struggles with holding on to her faith in God’s love for her after the death of her husband. I loved the vivid picture she had of letting go of her fears and truly trusting God to handle them. It was very well done!
The first half chronicles Savannah and Michael reconnecting at their twenty-year high-school reunion and the next few days as they get to know each other again. It is sweet and romantic (Michael is so kind and sensitive, and so in love!). Yet Savannah struggles greatly with fear of becoming attached to this daring rescuer and then losing him.
The second half of the book changes pace when Michael returns to his life and we see some daring rescues. The first one was so crazy it had to be based on a true account! I will confess to not being able to really picture the grave danger they were in – but this may just be me. The second one is much more dramatic and prolonged. I like the way the author told of the events here and then switched over to Savannah’s life and the way she was beginning to spread her wings and then switched back to more about the rescue.
I was a little disappointed at not finding out the details about why the people needed rescuing. There was such a big deal made about what they did wrong, I would have liked to know what they were thinking and what happened to Andrea.
A Promise to Keep was a great debut novel. I recommend it for lovers of Christian romance.
Read my review of A Promise to Keep by Melony Teague at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Savannah Sanderson only had one reason to attend her high school reunion, and that was because her husband begged her to, just before his death. And she granted his wishes. But she wasn’t expecting their old friend, the friend who walked out and left them, never to return or stay in contact with. And Michael McCann looks nothing like he did in high school, so she didn’t recognize him at first sight of him. The tension is high, neither wanting to see the other, but both drawn to each other because of things beyond their control.
A Promise to keep is filled with so many emotions. There is a lot of friction between the main characters. With their past hanging over them, it was difficult to move forward with any kind of relationship. The author does a really nice job of creating amazing characters, and making their story sound realistic. My heart was heavy for both Savannah and Michael. They were so afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone because they were hanging in to their past so strong it was difficult to let go. This is a heartbreaking, yet sweet Inspirational read. And very well worth your time to read. I encourage you to check out A Promise to Keep for your reading enjoyment.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
With beautiful tenderness, Melony Teague has given us a window into the joy, sorrow, humour, and soaring love of characters that come alive. Be ready to have your heart stolen in this must-read fiction debut.
*I received an advanced reader’s copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
This is a debut fiction book for this author. And it’s a really good one. Can you imagine going to your high school reunion? That’s where we begin with Savannah and Michael’s story. Then we get to travel with them to Niagara Falls! We see how old friends reconnect, and a journey throughout the book. Savannah is a widow. Michael never married. There were hurts way back when I’m high school and after. Michael is a search and rescue team member. Savannah a librarian, who doesn’t take risks. It’s an interesting journey they set out on for each of them in the book! Definitely recommend it! I received a copy of this book from the author. All views stated here are my own.
Melony Teague’s debut novel is engaging. The story line not only kept my interest it made me want to continue to read.
I loved every minute I spent in Savannah and Michael’s world. Ms. Teague reunites these two high school friends at their 20 year high school reunion. Where Savannah promised her high school sweetheart, and dying husband Nick she’d attend. The visualization is so good throughout this novel that I can still see the fern that Savannah was hiding behind at the reunion.
I enjoyed the spur of the moment road trip that took me to places in Canada which was really fun. A complete arm chair adventure.
The characters are well developed they make you want to know and care about them.
The story is well paced, with surprises and suspense along the way that open up the door for Michael and Savannah to discover new things about each other.
While this book has a lot of fun, adventure, and suspense, it is also full of grace, enjoying every moment, and loads of heart!
Melony Teague has hit the ball out of the park with this fiction debut. If I hadn’t been told that this was a debut novel I wouldn’t have believed it.
I highly recommend this book! It will appeal to a wide audience of contemporary readers.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone dreads attending high school reunions, right? In Melony Teague’s debut novel, A Promise to Keep, main character Savannah Sanderson made a death-bed promise to her dying husband that she’d go to her 20th high school reunion. There she runs into their long-lost mutual friend, Michael McCann.
Melony Teague has crafted a solid debut that should find a willing audience. There’s something here for everyone. A Promise to Keep is a thoroughly enjoyable contemporary romance with memorable, well-drawn characters, settings that vividly come to life, humor and emotional depth in good balance, and even a suspense element.
This is a Christian fiction market release, and the faith element is well-integrated into the story without being preachy. Teague is never heavy-handed; she weaves the spiritual pieces in naturally, telling a story of second-chances, overcoming fear, learning to trust God and others, and not letting life pass you by. As Savannah learns to open up her life and her world, readers will be encouraged to recognize opportunities that life presents and joyfully seize them.
Verdict: 4 of 5 Hearts. A contemporary romance debut that marks Teague as an author to watch!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Melony Teague and Anaiah Press for providing me with an advance reader’s copy of this title. I was not required to write a review.
A Promise to Keep is a fantastic and impressive debut novel. In the heart-stirring story of Savannah Sanders and Michael McCann who reconnect at their high school reunion., the author crafted characters who I genuinely loved. Savannah will break your heart as the widowed young woman who is only attending her 20th high school reunion to keep a promise she made to her dying husband. Savannah doesn’t really want to be there, but a promise is a promise, right?
Luckily Michael is looking for an escape route, too but it involves his dear friend Savannah. This is where the laugh out loud moments begin. Michael is funny, kind, sweet and quite adventurous as Savannah soon discovers when they begin to spend time together.
It was great fun traveling with the characters but this book isn’t all fun and games, it’s an emotional read blended perfectly with action and a little drama. Ms. Teague penned a beautiful and heartfelt story with within the pages of this book. The emotions are real and powerful and the characters are ones that I will think of occasionally because they seemed so real to me. I look forward to more of this authors work and highly recommend this book.
I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own.
Oh, my heart! I LOVE this story!
It is kind of like a second chance at love, especially for Michael.
I enjoyed the shared history of the characters and how their past closeness as friends brought them together in the present. There are some great funny moments. There are even more heart touching moments.
There is a moment in a cave that was especially poignant for me personally.
I love the drama, the fun, and the romance! I highly recommend this book!