“It was just a house. Just a weathered old house in a hidden grove, shuttered and still…”Last year, after traumatic circumstances forced her from her job as a nanny, Mara Bristol finally found a place to belong—the winsome Everwood Bed & Breakfast at the edge of Maple Valley, Iowa. For months, she’s helped its owner, Lenora, maintain the ramshackle property despite their shortage of guests. … despite their shortage of guests. But when Lenora fails to return from a month-long trip and the bank threatens foreclosure, Mara worries she’s once again alone . . . abandoned . . . about to lose the only true home she’s ever known.
Detective Marshall Hawkins is no closer to whole today than he was two years ago . . . the day his daughter died. Between his divorce, debilitating migraines, and a dependence on medication, his life is falling apart. And when a reckless decision on the job propels him into administrative leave, he has no other plan but to get in his truck and drive. A one-night stay at the Everwood was supposed to be just that. But there’s something about the old house—or maybe its intriguing caretaker—that pulls him in.
Together, Mara and Marshall set out to save the Everwood. But its secrets run deeper than they could’ve imagined. As they renovate the house and search for its missing owner, they’ll each confront the pain that brought them to the Everwood in the first place . . . and just maybe discover a faith and love to help them carry on.
Romance and mystery collide in this first installment in award-winning author Melissa Tagg’s new Maple Valley series.
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Was definitely excited to read Melissa Tagg’s latest Maple Valley book. What I appreciate about her books is that they often feature the themes of redemption and forgiveness. Who does not need a bit more of both of those qualities? This one has a bit of a mystery. At the end, readers will be longing to visit this imaginary town. I liked this realistic small town romance very much!
I love small, quirky towns. I love a good B&B setting in a small, quirky town. Toss in a renovation of the B&B in the small, quirky town?
Yeah, I pretty much loved Now and Then and Always!!
Set in lovable Maple Valley, Now and Then and Always is a fabulous blend of romance, mystery and faith. The characters are layered and relatable. The supporting cast was exceptionally strong, and the friendships made in this story were wonderful!
Before reading Now and Then and Always, I’d only read novellas by Melissa Tagg (see those reviews here! and here! ) so I was excited to see how a full length novel would play out. Honestly, guys…this was perfect!
This is a deep story and the lead characters, Marshall and Mara, have major hurts in their past. You feel those hurts right along with them. Yet, there is so much hope in their stories, you never feel down-and-out while reading this book. I found it to be rather uplifting! Melissa Tagg’s storytelling is a gift!
I’m so glad this was the start of a new series! The promise of more stories set in Maple Valley is real and I can’t wait for more!
Oh, and may I add that I’m sitting here eating a bowl of Lucky Charms while I type this review. Well, maybe they’re generic store brand “Magic Stars” but, hey – still counts. Why do I mention this beloved breakfast cereal? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
Five Shining Stars! I oh-so-absolutely recommend this book! To purchase your copy of Now and Then and Always, visit http://www.Amazon.com
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I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. Opinions expressed are completely my own
It was great to return to Maple Valley. This book is yet another fantastic book from Melissa Tagg.
I do love a good book with twists and layers and mystery. And Ms. Tagg surely delivers with this story.
There’s just something romantic about a B&B. Something magical, something healing. And sometimes, something mysterious—and dangerous.
Gotta give Mara points for being tenacious. Holding out, hoping every day for Lenora to return. Clinging to a thin and fraying thread that she’s not been abandoned again.
Abandonment happens in different ways. Marshall was abandoned by way of death, and then divorce. And by his own hand to allay the guilt and despair he fought.
Everwood was more than a B&B to both Mara and Marshall. Like a friend, Everwood embraced them both, offering a balm to their wounded souls.
I admired the way Mara stood firm, knowing she was right about Lenora. I applauded her as she stepped way outside her comfort zone—and found love and support and friendship.
Marshall pours himself into helping with much needed repairs to the B&B, thinking only to numb his pain. But as he works, Everwood—and Mara—touch his shattered heart, crumbling the wall he has hidden behind. The pain ebbs, and peace seeps in.
As they work, the mystery of Lenora’s disappearance becomes more sinister. Desperate for clues, desperate to save Everwood, Mara and Marshall doggedly follow the trail even when it seems to have grown cold. Each clue, each new discovery—one surprising discovery especially—kept me turning pages to the end.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS!
I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Now and Then and Always, Melissa Tagg
I was so happy to return to Maple Valley and the author did not disappoint. Marshall deals with so much from his past. He ends up at the bed and breakfast Mara is helping run. She decides to take a chance and help him. Marshall can rest for the first time in a long while there. A journey begins between these characters of healing. It’s an individual journey, but they do it because of each other. It’s a beautiful story. I received a copy of this book from the author. All views stated here are my own.
Now and Then and Always takes you on a fascinating and touching journey of the heart. A broken heart that feels betrayed and left lonely all who promised to love her. Her only respite is found in a run down bed and breakfast in Maple Valley. The love and care she finds there is a healing balm on her broken heart. This book is a great read to curl up in your air conditioned home with (Like I did becasue it is so hot out) as well as stretch out on the Back Porch or on the beach. Which ever is your favoirte place to read, you will not be sorry that you added this book to your collection.
Another great, romantic book by Melissa Tagg…and really exciting because I believe it’s the first of a new series. I loved that I was able to read some small updates on characters from earlier stories set in Maple Valley…and get hints of other characters’ stories that are yet to come. And, of course, I love Marshall and Mara.
This one was a bit different from her earlier books in that it also included both s mystery and some more serious issues such as addiction and grief. A must read.
This story has all the feels. I mean there is redemption, forgiveness, grace, love, second chances, faith, and so much more. All packed into a sweet story with a small hometown that I would visit at any opportunity. Maple Valley is just one of the places that you want to go and never leave. The people are caring, sweet, helpful, and just plain a joy to be around.
Tagg easily captured my attention in the opening chapters. Mara and Hawkins have so much baggage, so much to get past, that you can’t help but have empathy for them and cheer them on. Mara and Hawkins are both real, relatable, and loveable. Not once did I feel like their stories were forced, and with the backgrounds they came from, I was a bit nervous on how Tagg would bring it all together. No worries – she’s a pro and handled it way better then I could have ever expected. **sigh** I’m still thinking about them and that sweet B&B.
I could probably go on and on, but rather than bore you, let me say this. Melissa Tagg is one of my favorite Christian Romance authors, this story probably being my favorite. I think it is the most thought provoking one she’s written. A reader can’t help but be filled with hope when reading it. I look forward to seeing my friends in Maple Valley again real soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love Melissa Tagg’s writing and this book was wonderful. I loved being back in Maple Valley and being there with these characters. A fun romance. Highly recommend.
I love Mara, Marshall, Everwood, and all of Maple Valley. Melissa Tagg has a special touch when it comes to making her characters come alive. Mara and Marshall quickly became my good friends and their brokenness made my heart heavy. I felt I was staying at Everwood and wanted to help solve its mysteries. (And I adore the cover!)
“We always have a choice, don’t we? To let our hurts forever weaken us or . . . or instead find some way to draw strength from what we’ve been through.”~Mara
When all that happens in a book culminates into tears streaming down my face at the end, I know it’s a grand story! I’ve heard Tagg’s writing was exceptional but I hadn’t experienced it until “Now and Then and Always”. My heart invested in not only an outdated & neglected B&B, but the lives of Mara, Lenora, and Marshall as they each find their way in life and are reminded of their worth in Christ. Soul stirring and emotional, this is one you want to place at the very top of your TBR pile!
I am ridiculously happy right now. Y’all. More Maple Valley? You know I’m down for that.
Before I even started this, I knew I would love it. And I was not wrong. I have not had anywhere near as much time as I’d like to read lately, but I finished this within less than 48 hours, and I have no regrets.
Tagg’s characters are always so unique, with compelling backstories, fun quirks, epic banter, and more, and Mara and Marshall were no different! From the prologue, I fell in love with Marshall. He may have made me cry a couple–okay, several–times. Can I just give the poor guy a hug, please? And Mara . . . wow, I can relate to her a lot! Both these characters are just so fabulous, and I completely love them.
The storyline moves along at a pretty good pace, although not too quickly. There was never a time I was bored or uninterested. Tagg deals with topics like abandonment, grief, and others in an incredibly realistic and moving way, and, as I mentioned, I was brought to tears more than once. The author always weaves in a storyline of mystery that was incredibly intriguing, and I don’t think she has done that before. But I definitely hope she does it again!
Just a couple of quick notes: [There are a couple of things I disliked about this book, but overall I loved the rest of it for it not to affect my 5-star rating. The first would be the kissing. Um. *coughs* It was a little passionate at times, and to be honest, I wish there had been less of it. But that’s just my personal preference when it comes to romance. The other little scruple I had was with how Marshall didn’t deal with any withdrawal after cutting cold turkey on his meds after 2+ years of constant use. It was kind of explained towards the end of the book, but I still feel like that may not have been the most realistic scenario, although it could have been. I guess I personally would have liked to see that play more into the storyline, but again, that’s just me. (hide spoiler)]
All in all, I am in love with this book and these characters. I cannot wait for book 2! I am hoping for a Jen + Lucas story (have been since Keep Holding On!) or a book about Sam . . . or both. If you are a lover of romance with deep themes and epic banter, plus a bit of mystery, I highly suggest you check out Now and Then and Always!
There are some books that you finish and then instantly reach for the next one in the series. Or if there’s not another book available, you start right back at the beginning or flip through and reread your favorite parts, smiling and crying all over again. This was one of those books. I’d read two of Melissa Tagg’s novellas and loved them, so I couldn’t wait to try a full-length novel. From the gorgeous cover and desperation-filled prologue to the heartwarming conclusion and final lines, I was instantly in love with the characters, their stories, and the charming little bed and breakfast at the heart of it all. You know an author is amazing when you desperately wish their fictional settings were real. If Maple Valley existed, I would pick up and move in a heartbeat. The charming little town is filled with loveable, quirky characters that I want to know more about. I’m excited to go back and read the other novels set in Maple Valley and learn more about the side characters that I loved in this novel. And I can’t wait until the next to learn more about Sam, and Jen, and Lucas.
I don’t want to give anything away about the book because it was that wonderful and you should just pick it up and experience it for yourself. But, I will tell you that I smiled, laughed, and cried more than once. Melissa Tagg’s romances are just so much fun. From the adorable meet-cute to their own personal struggles to find themselves, Mara and Marshall were amazing characters. I loved them individually, but especially together. I cried with them and cheered for them to find their way, not only back to each other, but back to the God who loves them now and then and always. When I picked this book, I chose it because of the beautiful cover and the intriguing premise. I didn’t realize how much I needed this story and how much I needed to hear the same words that Mara and Marshall needed to hear. That no matter how hard life is or how lost I feel, God and His love have always been there. Yes, this book is fun and sweet. But it’s also real and raw and heart-wrenching. And overflowing with the hope and the love that comes from the God of hope and love Himself.
Filled with romance, humor, a little bit of mystery, and a whole lot of heart, Now and Then and Always is a beautiful story of hope and the never-ending love of God.
“God, who’d loved her with an always and everywhere kind of love, even when she hadn’t seen it”
I was pretty excited that Melissa Tagg wrote another book set in Maple Valley, Iowa, because I was not ready to say goodbye to this cute little town. This particular book is another winner! I really loved the characters, their broken emotions and pasts drawing me in from the start and allowing me to connect with and care about them almost immediately. The setting is, of course, wonderful, and I enjoyed reading about the mysterious Everwood. There are some unknowns and suspense to keep the plot interesting and keep you turning the pages until the end. And the romance—sweet, complex, and altogether wonderfully perfect! I cannot recommend this book enough and definitely encourage that you check out all of the Maple Valley characters in her previous books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions of the review are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
Loved this book so much, could hardly put it down. Characters were complex and the spiritual growth was inspiring.
I absolutely loved Taggs newest novel. This book brings two hurting people together and shows the healing power of love. Tagg’s delivers a story that illustrates that God can redeem any situation. And hey, I absolutely loved going back to Maple Valley. Now, the question is, how long until the next book?
Ah, Marshall and Mara! It’s been a while since Melissa Tagg’s last release, but Now and Then and Always was definitely worth the wait!
At the beginning of the book, both Marshall and Mara are at varying stages of brokenness (though aren’t we all?), and their time at the Everwood leads to healing and restoration. I enjoyed their romance (the “meet cute” was especially fun), but, more than that, I loved their friend group. Mara lived at the Everwood for months before getting to know anyone from Maple Valley—but after the B&B’s owner Lenora disappears, she has to venture into town to see what she can do to save the Everwood … and that’s when she gets to know Jenessa, Lucas, and Sam. Eventually, Marshall gets swept into their group, too, and I just loved these friends who became family.
There’s also a mystery in the pages of this story: what happened to Lenora, and why did her parents flee the Everwood when she was a child? I figured out none of the answers, but I sure had fun guessing (and I’m glad things weren’t quite as sinister as I’d feared).
I loved reading Marshall & Mara’s story … now I hope that Jenessa & Lucas’s story comes next!
Disclosure of material connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
“Far be it from me to speak for the Almighty, but I feel fairly confident saying God isn’t looking for impressive people. He’s looking for people who are willing to be impressed by Him.” Lenora, Now and Then and Always
I just have to say: wow! This might be my favorite novel from Melissa Tagg yet!
I’ve loved every single one of my novels, but this one touched me deeper because the main characters, Marshall and Mara, and Lenora, were all such relatable characters. Flawed, yet kind and compassionate. All searching for purpose in their lives.
Mara landed in Everwood B&B after a traumatic event sent her running from her job as a nanny. Confused and alone, Mara finds in Everwood what she needs: solace, friendship and a kindred spirit in Lenora, the B&B owner. Together, they start refurbishing the place, which, although charming in itself, is in a state of abandonment. But a month long trip that Lenora takes and she doesn’t arrive back, Mara finds herself alone with the Everwood in the brink of foreclosure, due to months of debt.
That’s when Marshall providentially arrives, searching for an escape, not knowing what to do with his life when he’s given a leave at his job in order to recompose himself. He hasn’t been the same since his daughter’s death, the divorce, his debilitating migraines, his addiction to medication. But one stormy night ends him in the Everwood, which is just like the house his daughter talked that she dreamed about after seeing it in a magazine.
But after a tornado damages the house, he just can’t leave Mara alone and offers his help. One day turns into two and then he offers to help her plan a proyect to renovate the place and get the funds from the town to avoid foreclosure. He doesn’t know what brought him there, but he can’t resist the pull that keeps him wanting to help Mara out.
Together, they embark in a new adventure, not only to renovate the place, but to find out if Lenora simply left or if something is wrong with her disappearance. And while they navigate this hurdles, they get to know each other in a way they never thought possible. Might it be that the healing they both need stands right in front of each other? And that saving Everwood and Lenora might prove to be salvation for themselves too?
I totally loved this story! Maybe it was the brokenness of the characters and how they change throughout the story. How redemption comes in the least expected ways, but always comes nevertheless. How they learn to trust God and that how He’s the only one that can bring good out of the pain and the bad things. How trials are just opportunities to grow and give the best of oneself.
The characters were realistic and loveable, and the plot had twists and turns that it didn’t expect and kept me engaged until the end. I think this is Melissa’s novel with most suspense element, and that made it even more captivating than other stories.
Well I just can’t praise enough Melissa Tagg’s new novel and the start of a new series. Hopefully, we’ll get to know more about the secondary characters, which I loved too: Jenessa, Lucas, Sam.
And coming back to Maple Valley, the setting of the Walker family series was another delight too!
A rambling run-down bed and breakfast, some deeply broken people, a decades old mystery…when put together with God in the center, it makes for a powerfully moving story.
I’ve missed Maple Valley…the charming, quirky town and its amazingly loving and welcoming residents. Reading Now and Then and Always, set on the outskirts of Maple Valley, just felt like coming home – oh I wish this was a real place! As always when we visit Maple Valley, we get to meet some new characters, but we also get to “run into” some old favorites. It’s such an added joy to catch up with these “friends.”
The newest Maple Valley residents, Marshall, Mara and Lenora are flawed and broken people. In this story, we witness God meeting each of these characters right where they are. And although this is a fictional story, it mimics how God uses us, flawed and broken people, to do His work…to care for, to offer acceptance, to love one another. The deeply broken characters in this book serve as examples to us of people in our own lives who need to be offered that care, acceptance and love. God uses Melissa Tagg’s writing to teach us how to be His hands and feet. Her writing has a unique blend of humor and depth that grabs hold of our hearts and ministers to us as we read.
This story deals with addiction, grief, hurtful family relationships, abandonment, abuse and scars. It deals with choices, perspectives hope and healing. It deals with all of this while sharing a beautiful story that draws you in and causes you to feel as if you are a part of it. Therefore, even though I have finished this story, I do not want to leave Maple Valley and these people yet. My real life is full of people who are dealing with these same things…the good and the bad. This story encourages me to be present in their lives and be the kind of friend and relative that I loved meeting and visiting with in this book.
If I’ve not made it clear enough in my review thus far, I love this book. It touched my heart and I am already anticipating another visit to Maple Valley.
Although set in a beloved fictional town full of stories already told, Now and Then and Always can be read as a stand-alone novel. If however you enjoy the added depth of reading stories in order, to enhance the overall enjoyment of the book, like I do, then I would recommend going back to the beginning of Maple Valley and starting with the prequel novella to the Walker Family Series, Three Little Words.
*Thanks to the publisher and the author for the complimentary copy to review. A good review was neither encouraged nor requested. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Another food warning! I usually do not eat sugary cereal and I do not like milk. That being said, you might want to have some sugary cereal and milk on hand when reading this story! I ate three bowls – not all at once though! 😉 I loved this story!!! It made me laugh out loud, it tugged at my heartstrings, and also me cry – more than once! I know when an author is able to draw those feelings out, it’s a good book. Melissa Tagg knows how to write engaging characters and they live in the best town ever! I want to move to Maple Valley!!
I loved Marshall Hawkins. Thirty-five. Milwaukee. (You’ll get it when you read the book!) He is such a great character who is going through some really really awful times. My heart literally ached for him and I wanted him to be okay. I also really liked Mara and I loved their first meeting and the hilarious conversation that followed! And there are parts throughout the story where Marshall plays a running joke on Mara that had me laughing out loud – every time! All of the secondary characters really added to the story and I want them all to have their own stories!
I also loved the religious aspects of this story! There are so many great quotes I want to share, but I’ll stick to just one, “But we always have a choice, don’t we? To let our hurts forever weaken us or…or instead find some way to draw strength from what we’ve been through.” This is so true! We can wallow in our misery or we can choose to let God use what we have been through to grow and strengthen us.
I highly recommend this story! I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.