He lost his brother. She lost her dream. Together, they might find what they’re really looking for.
Holly Stanford is doing the best she can with the restaurant she inherited from her late uncle. But after her fiancé abandons her and the business, Holly regrets having given up her dream of becoming a pastry chef. Now a few bad financial decisions might cost her everything, including her hope for … everything, including her hope for the future.
Jed Henning has done well with his new company despite his prodigal brother’s behavior. When Jed‘s father, the controlling member of the board of directors, temporarily suspends operations until his sons work out their differences, Jed resentfully chases his brother, Chris, to Boise. There Jed rents a basement apartment from Holly and hopes to convince Chris to get his act together before their company collapses.
Unaware that Holly is the one person who can help him get through to Chris, Jed starts the tough work of reconciliation armed with little more than a few family photographs, a stack of old letters, and a Bible that belonged to his great-grandfather, Andrew Henning. And as romance blossoms between Holly and Jed, the story of Jed’s great-grandfather highlights the power of God across the generations and the legacy of a family’s courageous faith.
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How Sweet It Is, the third installment from Robin Lee Hatcher’s series, Legacy of Faith. Even though it is part of a series, I believe it can be read as a stand alone. Though, I am sad to see the end of the series. I loved this sweet and delightful read. I adored Jed and Holly. They had perfect chemistry, making the book fun and entertaining. There was a little twist and turn I did not expect which made the story quite unpredictable.
I am giving How Sweet It Is four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean and inspiring romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
How Sweet It Is is the third in The Legacy of Faith Series where an old family Bible is passed to the next descendant who needs it the most. This time it was Jed Henning’s turn. At first he is given an ultimatum by his father to find his brother, Chris, and make things right or else he would close Jed’s company. This news at first does not seem fair, but as Jed focuses on Chris he begins to question why he thought he was so right for all these years and what happened to his kid brother to change him so much.
Jed rents a room from Holly Stanford who is having problems herself. Deeply in debt trying to run a restaurant and still healing from being jilted by her fiancé, Holly is having some major trust issues. And not only that but she has pretty much given up on all her dreams. It is like she has taken them and locked them up someplace just so she can continue to survive.
As in the course of their acquaintance Holly and Jed get to know each other. And in the pages of their story we continue to time slip to the past and get Andrew and Helen Henning’s story. The years have passed for Andrew and Helen and they are entering the later years of their lives, and their whole life has taught them much about family, faith, and God.
There was many beautiful lessons and truths in this story that pulled at my heartstrings. I enjoyed watching each of the people grow into better versions of themselves as they took away lessons from their ancestor Andrew Henning. This was a beautiful story of family and their legacy of faith and what that can mean for generations.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
The third installment of Hatcher’s Legacy of Faith series, How Sweet It Is, continues the split time series that connects the historic story of Andrew Henning through his Bible to the current story of one of his descendants. In this case, great-grandson Jed is featured along with Holly Stanford who just happens to own the house Andrew and Helen lived in during the early days of their marriage.
As can be expected, How Sweet It Is uses Andrew’s bible to once again bring a family member back to their walk of faith. Andrew and Helen’s story is one that is filled with both love and tragedy but it vividly illustrates how the Lord stands strong through all the storms of life. Jed and Holly each have challenges in their lives that only God can help them overcome. It was encouraging to read about how seeming coincidences actually became evident as the obvious leading of the Lord.
A sweet romance, How Sweet It Is was easy to read and enjoyable. Although filled with scripture references, the faith element was not intrusive and did not detract from the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Prism Book Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
How Sweet It Is is just as sweet as its title suggests! It’s a clean, inspirational romance that will challenge you to trust that God has your future in His hands. How often do things happen in our lives that just don’t make sense? Often, I’m sure!
In this final book in The Legacy of Faith series, both Jed and Holly have had things happen in the past year that just don’t make sense to them. Holly’s financial burdens are overwhelming since she listened to her ex-fiance’s advice to renovate and open the restaurant she inherited. Jed’s forced to leave his job until he can find his brother and make peace with him. Of course, neither of these things make the characters happy. They make them confused and angry.
But God knows what He’s doing! Though Jed and Holly are fictional characters, I’m sure we can relate to being confused and angry at times. We can’t see the big picture, so we look at our problems rather than looking at God. Jed’s cousin feels led to give Jed their great-grandfather’s Bible, and Jed finds wisdom in God’s word and his great-grandfather’s notes written in that Bible.
You know, I didn’t think about this when I was reading, but notice that Jed’s cousin feels God leading him to give Jed the Bible. What if he hadn’t listened to that pull of the Holy Spirit? I have my grandma’s Bible. I’m not so sure I’d want to give it to one of my cousins! But he does, and because he does, Jed finds the wisdom he needs.
The characters and the love that develops between them are very believable. But I think that the best part of the book is watching God’s plan unfold. People who don’t know Him may say that things happen by fate. No, they happen according to God’s perfect plan. I have always loved Robin Lee Hatcher’s books, and How Sweet It Is is no exception.
I’m so thankful for this reminder. The times we are living in are so unsettled and frightening at times. We may not see how things are going to work out, but God does. Those who trust in Him can rest in the fact that He’s got us and our future planned. Let your faith grow stronger during the tough times and trust Him with the end.
How Sweet It Is is the third (and final, I think) book about the Henning family.
Another story about some broken people finding their way.
A story about trusting, forgiveness, and love.
I’ve enjoyed getting to know various members of this family. They are all tied together by Andrew Henning’s Bible. And this book, as did the earlier ones, continues to give the story of Andrew and Helen. What a sweet legacy they left their descendants.
This is Jed’s story. And also Holly’s.
Holly’s been hurt in the past. A broken engagement, along with a pile of debt. Now, she’s not sure her heart can handle loving anyone again. But then she meets Jed.
Robin Lee Hatcher writes sweet romances that show us God’s love. This book is an excellent examle of this.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I love reading Robin Lee Hatcher’s books, because they are so inspirational. Usually the main characters are struggling in some way, but readers get to see their growth and how they are striving to overcome these throughout the book. This book is no different. If you read the other books in the series, you will revisit with some of the previous characters. This is a time-split novel as well. Readers will toggle between two different time frames. The earlier time frame focuses on a couple who have been a part of all three books, but readers get to discover their story at different parts of their life. The current time focuses on a family member. This book focuses on Holly and Jed. Jed seems to have it all and is super absorbed in his career and achievements. However, Jed’s relationship with his brother is basically non-existent. He is on a search for his brother to mend their relationship when he meets Holly. Holly has had some disheartening situations in the past year and is struggling to juggle all of her responsibilities. The title of this book goes with what occurs throughout. The story focuses on redemption, but also loving others and not being so critical. Readers will enjoy this sweet rmance! I highly recommend this book! You will not be disappointed!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, this is my own opinion.
This is a wonderful story that will touch your heart. The switch between present day and 1969 made for a heartwarming read. I can’t say enough good things about this book without letting a spoiler slip out. In my humble opinion this is the best book I’ve read by Robin Lee Hatcher. This story stays with you long after you read the last page. Thank you Thomas Nelson–FICTION via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have always really enjoyed reading this authors book, however I have not read anything in this series and when I started the book it wasn’t what I expected at first. It got good thou really good right away. I really thought oh great a story about a rich kid but that was so far from that. This story is about family, faith, forgiveness and finding yourself. I loved Holly, and Willow they have this strong independent to them and they fight for themselves and those they love. I really like Jed and how his journey to make things right with his brother also was a whole different journey all on its own. I loved the story of Andrew and Helen. This book will make you laugh and cry, I liked that this was a good clean read and I like that the how the story draws you in and keeps you going till the end not wanting to put it down. I would totally recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.”
Delightful in every way:
This is a wonderful book full of heart and hope. It is book 3 of the Legacy of Faith series but can definitely be read as a standalone.
Jed has come to town to find his brother and ends up renting an apartment from Holly, which happens to be where his great grandparents stayed years previously. Poor Holly has been hurt in the past and it was wonderful watching her open herself up again and be willing to trust her heart to a man again. They both showed growth as individuals as they worked through their issues and troubles. I also enjoyed the dual timelines and learning great grandpa Ben’s story from the 1960’s (snippets from his earlier life had been provided in prior books in the series).
I loved the way that the Christian message was woven seamlessly throughout the book and was at the core of the characters lives too and not just an afterthought.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This novel was a nice way to round out the Legacy of Faith series. I believe that it can be read and understood without reading the first two books in the series. However, I feel that I had a greater appreciation for the historical portion of the novel because I have read the entire series.
I thought that Jed and Holly’s relationship growth throughout the story felt realistic. Holly had some serious trust issues to overcome, which did get in the way a bit, but made for some good emotional and spiritual growth for her.
I felt sorry for Jed and the fact that he and his brother had a falling out. Even though all ended well, I felt that the way the dad handled things was wrong. However, the story line involving Chris did turn out to add another interesting element and I would have been pleased to have had even more from that part of the book toward the end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This is the newest book out from author Robin Lee Hatcher, and the first of hers I’ve read. It is the third book in her “Legacy of Faith” series, however, I think it could easily be read as a standalone, as I did.
The story is one of healing and love and family and belonging. You go on the journey with Holly and Jed, two people who are dealing with their own set of struggles of trust, hurt and wanting something more. Along with their story, is the story of Jed’s grandfather, Andrew. Popping back and forth from present day to Grandpa Andrew’s day, the story of family and legacy is told. It was a heartwarming story that slowly took you from one place to the next with each chapter.
While this wasn’t a favorite book of mine (some parts were a little heavier than I prefer with a fiction read), it was still enjoyable. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars.
*I received a copy of this book from Prism Book Tours in return for an honest review. All thoughts, ramblings and opinions are my own.*
Beautiful dual-period love story that took me from tears to tenderness in reflecting on my own life.
Through the broken promises of her former fiancé, Holly is struggling to keep the restaurant afloat and losing her dreams of her bakery. Due to his father’s insistence and to save his business, Jed comes to Boise to find his brother and settle their differences. Jed rents the basement apartment from Holly, where his great-grandparents first lived. Through reading his great-grandfather’s bible, Jed starts looking at his relationship with his brother differently. I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgallery. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I really like how the story is told from Jed’s and Holly’s point of view as well as flashbacks to Jed’s great-grandfather’s life. I really like the themes of the prodigal son and faith in the story. I also like the slow growing sweet romance between Jed and Holly. This is an enjoyable read, which also had me reflecting on relationships in my life.
How sweet it is
How sweet it is was a book that had me hooked from the very first word. I love reading books that connect together with two time periods.
I loved Andrew and Helen story that was set in 1969 to 1970. They had such an amazing love story. Helen has health problems they learn to deal with. Andrew is such a strong man and close to God. Andrew and Helen story really touched my heart.
In present time, there is Holly and Jed story. Holly is trying to get past with what happened with her ex and Jed is dealing with family.
The characters were so real to me, I could visualize what they were doing. I loved how Holly was trying make it work out with the restaurant. The cooking classes were great. Jed was trying his best to get closer to his brother.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Prism book tours. I was not required to write an positive review.
Holly is stuck with a restaurant she really doesn’t want. Her ex-fiancé convinced her to open the restaurant with his promise that he would help her run it while she concentrated on her baking business. Well, that was before the fiancé decided he didn’t want to be engaged any more and left town. Jed is on the look out for his younger brother. Their dad gave Jed an ultimatum to find Chris or he would close Jed’s business.
This is a story of reconciliation and listening instead of jumping in with both feet without all the facts. An easy read that keeps your interest.
I was given this book by Thomas Nelson Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
He sweet to be loved by God. This book was a beautiful story of God’s love and pursuit of man.
Jed had a dysfunctional relationship with his brother and under ultimatum went to Boise to fix it. Unknowingly to him that it was God ordering his footsteps to fix him and lots more. I loved how submissive he was to God and how devoted and determined he was to fix things even when the odds were against him. I admired the God fearing man he became and how he loved Holly.
Sweet Holly had her own share of disappointments, heartbreaks and bad decisions but I admired her zeal to press on and make a difference in other lives with love and sacrifice. She had her battles with truth and insecurities to fight but she took life in stride and had a God concerned about her to give her a second chance at everything.
Andrew and Helen Jennings story was heartwarming, sweet and inspiring. Most couples don’t survive what they did, but they did and came up strong, raising generations of God fearing children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
This book is filled the the faith of generations of individuals whose steps were ordered by God, who went through the most difficult of lives situations but came out victorious because they trusted God and had a God who loved them unconditionally.
I recieved a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
First, let me just say I love both the cover and the title of this book. Both of these led me to expect a sweet and light romance with some baking thrown in for fun. While there were sweet and light parts and a little bit of baking, for me, this story was heavier and way more emotional than I expected. I may have cried like a baby after finishing the story- all the while hoping I didn’t wake my sleeping husband up!
We really have three stories in one in this book. The main story was about Jed and Holly. Their story gave me the sweet and light I was expecting. I liked how their relationship grew, I just wished Holly’s previous experience wouldn’t have played quite the large part it did in their story.
Chris and Willow’s story was one of the secondary stories. I wish we could have an entire book devoted to it. As written, I felt there were too many questions left unanswered, which frustrated me and left me wanting more. I think their full story could’ve been really deep, emotional, and filled with God’s grace and love. Lastly, we had snippets of Andrew and Helen’s story which takes place in the past. This story touched me the most. It was one of forgiveness, love, and God’s peace. This story is the one that had me sobbing like a baby.
I loved how the faith element was seamlessly woven throughout
this story. It was deep and didn’t seem forced. The following quote was one of my favorites from this story because I loved the reminder that God’s timing is always perfect.
“God’s grace came not a moment too soon or too late. It came in the moment it was needed.”
This is the third and, I believe, final story in this series. I have not read the first two books and while I wasn’t lost, I think I would’ve enjoyed this story more had I read the first two stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This story is unique because it is told from THREE different points of view. But I think this approach works. “How Sweet It Is” is the third book in Robin Hatcher’s Legacy of Faith series. I have not yet read the first two books (but I definitely will at some point especially having read this book). I still was able to follow along with this third title without any problems.
First point of view: Holly Stanford is trying to survive running the restaurant that was never a part of her plans. She has had several major setbacks and seems set on punishing herself for her mistakes. She was stuck. This quote explains part of her frustration with life, and I do not think it is a spoiler. “Holly didn’t want or need romantic complications in her life. Especially the kind that couldn’t have a happy ending. She’d been there, done that and owned the T-shirt.”
Jed Hennings was trying to run his computer company and maybe his brother’s life as well. His Dad’s lecture proves to be a forced wake-up call. He learns that just as his brother had made some mistakes, he was also at fault and realized that he played the part of the prodigal son’s older brother well. He felt like he had a lot to do to make up for his assertive behavior.
The third person’s point of view was Jed’s great-grandfather Andrew Henning. This is the time lapse portion of the back as it dates back to 1969 when Andrew was older. This was one of the first times I had read a book from an older man’s point of view. I thought it was very interesting.
Occasionally switching between three view points was slightly confusing. But learning more about the Henning family was enjoyable. Several minor characters (including some more Hennings) are also important in helping the characters learn about God and about themselves.
The romance element is paced well for the most part. I like the fact that the ending chapter happens four months later.
Although this is a book about a want-to-be pastry chef, only a small part of the story deals with baking. More attention is paid to the relationships part of the story. This book does address starting over and finding second chances. The spiritual component is strong which makes for a great Christian fiction book.
This is one of my favorite quotes that Andrew makes after quoting Scripture.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholdeth him with His hand.” – That’s from Psalm 37. And I realized something when I read it this morning. God directs our steps, but He also directs our stops. There’s a purpose in His delays. I’ve learning that walking is easier than waiting.”
‘Jesus, even when what you tell me doesn’t make sense, I will do as you say. I want that to be my default response, every time.’
Robin Lee Hatcher’s books have always been an automatic read for me. Her Legacy of Faith series has certainly been very heartwarming and poignant, this book pouring many blessings into my heart. These books are time slip, going between contemporary and the previous several generations in the Henning family. The Henning ancestors left a strong legacy of faith for their descendants and their prayers and dreams for their family pays off. The part, set in 1969/70 featuring Andrew and Helen Henning was my favorite. I loved those two so much. I loved their deep-seated love for God and each other. That love and their faith in God were constant companions in their lives. So many precious nuggets were found in this book. Highly recommended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A sweet Christian novel focused on faith, family, and romance. Although the first book in the series is my favorite, I still recommend this book to readers of Christian fiction. The flashbacks to Andrew Henning’s story were some of my favorite parts of the series. A great conclusion to the Legacy of Faith series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.