Star Youngblood has always been a fighter-a necessity after her mother married a monster of a man. Now, she’s finally on the path to the stable life she’s always wanted. Her employer, Priscilla Kelly, is a sweet woman ravaged by rheumatoid arthritis, and Star will do anything to help her. Even if that means going toe to toe with Mrs. Kelly’s neglectful son.After being betrayed on the mission … field and devastated by the tragic death of his father, Paul Kelly gave up on God. He lives life on his own terms, biding his time as a corporate pilot until he can save enough money to begin his own flight school closer to home. His mother is all he has left, and he wants to be near her. He just didn’t expect her health to decline so quickly. When he discovers his mother has taken in a stray-a woman he’s not at all sure can be trusted-his protective instincts kick into high gear. Paul’s handled a lot of turbulence, but he’s never gone up against a force like Star.As Paul and Star strive to protect his mother in their own ways, they soon find their own hearts are at the greatest risk.
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It’s been a great adventure reading Janet Ferguson’s Coastal Hearts series, and this time it included a trip to Ireland! Star’s story intrigued me, as I was wondering how she was going to overcome such a tragic past and get her happy ending. When Paul Kelly entered the picture, I still wasn’t sure what to think. Ferguson’s characters are always realistic, flawed, and multi-layered, and her stories flow naturally. I enjoyed the humor and banter between the characters.
This story seemed a little heavier on the inspiration and religion than some of her others, so that will probably appeal to those who enjoy a good dose of it in their reading. Filled with redemption, forgiveness, healing, and hope, it’s a wonderful addition to the series. Although it can be read as a standalone book, the previous books in the series give a little more background in them.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Wow! This story! Star Rising was all at once a novel that had many humorous and lighthearted moments, yet didn’t shy away from difficult topics.
The main character, Paul, was a man who once worked in the mission field but has since rejected God and all things relating to the “myth and fairy tale” that he claims Christianity to be. Paul let betrayal and deep loss tear him away from his beliefs.
Star was first introduced to readers in the previous book, The Art of Rivers. She was a very rough and hurt character in that book. In Star Rising, we are able to see the transforming power of Christ in her life, along with her very real and newfound faith. I really appreciated learning more about her backstory and how she ended up addicted in the first place and in need of rescuing.
I liked Paul and Star so much. Granted, Paul was not a very likable guy in the beginning of the story, however, I felt that the author gave me a peek into his heart even right from the beginning. I knew that he loved his mother, had regretted some decisions, and was simply trying to work things out in his own way and on his own strength. As he and Star began to bond in Ireland, Paul’s potential began to shine through.
I loved this book from start to finish and the way the author did not shy away from the mistakes that these characters had made in their lives and the various decisions that were painful, yet necessary, to make.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved everything about Star Rising, as is the case with all that Janet Ferguson writes. This story is the whole package – entertaining storyline, well-drawn characters, struggles and temptations that readers can relate to, and faith themes applicable to daily life. Star Rising is Christian fiction at its best. A book rarely brings me to tears, but I had my moments in this story, especially in a moving scene toward the end.
Star, who was introduced in the previous Coastal Hearts novel, literally stole my heart. Driven to addictive behaviors as a result of experiences no child should have to go through, Star has come out on the other side with a new Christian faith. Star is smart, spunky, and I loved her so much. Walking beside her on her new faith journey was refreshing. And then there’s Paul. Paul is not at all likeable in the beginning, his one shining spot being that he loves his mother – not so much Star’s employer, but close friend and spiritual mentor. Then we learn that he has a mission field past that resulted in disillusionment and anger toward God – which makes him a compelling character for me.
Star and Paul have a beginning that’s so rough that it can only improve. There’s some hilarious scenes, such as the flight to Ireland, a trip that was on Mrs. Kelly’s bucket list. For Paul, it was a flight from… well, you know where. But best of all is the spiritual theme skillfully woven throughout. Star Rising is a heartwarming story of grace and redemption. I hope to see Paul and Star in future books.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Star Rising by Janet W Ferguson is a charming contemporary Christian novel that will warm your heart and soul as you read about a God who loves us far too much to ever let go.
God’s presence wafts over the whole novel. We see characters who are new Christians trying to set their lives in alignment with God.
In contrast we see characters who let life’s disappointments pull them away from God. Life may be hard but it will be even harder if we withdraw from God.
The readers hears of child abuse that shaped a character. At first, in pain, a character turned to drink and drugs but then “she’d learned to take her pain and anger to God.” She had to “remember, you can’t. God can.” When life is hard we must press into God. Let Him exchange our pain and anger for His peace.
We all need second chances because we all mess up. In God, it is never too late to have a fresh start. If once we knew Him but we walked away, the good news is … God will never let us go. He holds on to us with a passion and He will not stop pursuing us until we rest in Him.
Prayer is powerful. It connects us to God. We should fight all our battles on our knees. Prayer is also listening to God and being obedient. “I couldn’t ignore he nudge.” We’ve all felt it, and we ignore it at our peril. When God nudges us, we must respond.
In Star Rising the reader travels from America to Ireland making many new ‘friends’ along the way. I came to care deeply about the characters in the book. The story was also highly amusing as situations and verbal volleys brought a smile to my face.
Star Rising was my first novel by Janet Ferguson but I want more, more, more.
I will leave you with my favourite and powerful quote:
“Prayer is not telling God what we want… Prayer is asking God what He wants.”
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Star Rising
I loved, loved this book.
Star was indeed a star in my eyes, she had a traumatic childhood and had to grow up fast, a abusive stepdad and the horrid death of her mum. She had to grow up fighting and fighting hard. In trying to get her life back she finds herself in a support group that is true to helping her overcome and then become.
Star meets the mother figure she always needed in Priscilla Kelly and is fiercely protective of her at all cost even if she has to bite of the head of her absent son Paul
Paul a one-time missionary and now rejected God because of how disappointed he was in the lack of sincerity in the mission field and continues his life working for the nastiest boss trying to save enough money for a quiet life caring for his aging mother.
Priscilla’s heart incident finds Star and Paul meet in the hospital teeth baring and then all the way to Ireland under hilarious and embarrassing situations (mostly for Paul).
A love so sweet and yet must be sacrificed on the altar of total obedience to God. True adoption which find Star with a family that she always wanted.
Star Rising has imbibed in it truth about our assumptions on how we should serve God, it carries us through the process albeit painful, choosing God over what we think we believe is best for us. it takes us through the journey of Paul and Star and the healing they received when they truly truly surrendered.
In the end all things work together for those who love God and are called according to his purpose.
Thank you JustReads for my complimentary copy. I was NOT required to write a positive review; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Janet Ferguson is quickly becoming one of my favorite storytellers. Star Rising is a seriously great book. I loved everything about this story. The dislike-at-first-sight trope is my favorite Romance trope, and Ferguson utilizes it perfectly in this novel. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and found it not only highly engaging but extremely fast-paced as well. Pages were flying by. And, I found Ferguson’s themes timely and thoughtful. Overall, Star Rising is a homerun!
In Colossians 3:23 Paul tells us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” If I’m truly honest, I struggle with this verse. Not the working part – I do that in spades. I think my job is trying to kill me with all the work they are putting on my plate. I struggle with the heartily part, and that often takes my focus off God. My work becomes burdensome and I feel trapped trying to please all of my bosses. Then bitterness and resentment infiltrate into my heart, and I find myself wanting to give up. I get mad at God because I don’t understand why He’s forcing me into a job that’s trying to kill me. In this sense, I really related to Paul, the hero of Star Rising.
Paul, at the start of this novel, is seriously jaded. He hit a really rough patch earlier in his life and he allowed that to turn him into a very angry and bitter man who has walked away from God. Over the course of the novel, with quite a few hilarious bumps along the way, Paul comes to realize that his work for God was never actually work for God. Paul was working at Christian things to please his earthly father and to heap honor and glory upon himself. Once Paul understands his erroneous ways, he is able to ask God for His forgiveness and is able to realign himself to God’s will. Paul learns how to work heartily for God, and I found this to be an excellent reminder for me. I need to check my motives. Why is work becoming a burden? Am I working for God heartily? Or am I working for myself and my bosses? Do I need their approval or God’s? All of these are excellent questions I need to remember to ponder from time to time so I don’t end up jaded like Paul was at the start of this fabulous story.
Star Rising is a stellar novel that I just cannot recommend enough. I am going to miss my time with these characters, but I very much look forward to all Janet Ferguson has in store for her readers in the future. If you are looking for an excellent Contemporary Christian novel check out Star Rising. You won’t be disappointed that you did.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
“I’ve told my daughters this many times—unless a male is wearing a diaper, you can’t change him. That’s God’s job.”
Another superb novel in the Coastal Hearts series! This is book 4 but can be read as a stand-alone (though I do highly recommend reading Art of Rivers – book 3 – to get the background on all the wonderful people that Star calls friends). Janet Ferguson’s storytelling is smooth and easy to follow, even when she deals with such tough issues like addiction and abandonment. Star’s life journey has been a tough one but she can’t hide her tender, loyal heart and spirit. As a new believer and one-year sober, she tries hard to cling to God’s hope and love even as her past tries to drag her down. Paul, a disillusioned, angry, and bitter ex-missionary, comes home to his ailing mother but finds himself on a whirlwind trip to Ireland. The sights and sounds of St. Simons and parts of Ireland will captivate you as the main characters vie for a place in your heart. Their spiritual journey will reaffirm your faith….and Paul’s encounter with God will have you reaching for your tissue box.
This heart-warming contemporary book is not to be missed. I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The strength of this story is the conflict. Star is the caregiver for Mrs. Kelly. Her son Paul took a job a continent away, planning to save enough money to move home and take care of his mother. Star interprets the distance as neglect. Paul interprets Star’s actions as interfering. Both care about the delightful Mrs. Kelly, but they have different ideas about what’s best for her.
Spiritual conflict is another strength. Star and Paul have realistic struggles with on their faith journeys. Others – Mrs. Kelly, Davis, Morris, and Linda – support and disciple these two.
As I started this story, I knew it would be faith based and hard times were had by both leading characters, but I wasn’t expecting all the laugh out loud moments I would have. I truly loved how the author threw in little zingers (for lack of a better word)! I enjoyed the characters and their personalities. I appreciated how the author portrayed Star as still a work in progress in life improvements from her upbringing. I also appreciated how the author shared how Paul gave of himself, but when situations didn’t go as he wanted, he gave up on God. These characters and story situations were quite believable. I loved Paul’s Mother and her “patience of a saint”! Wonderful story and beautiful description of Ireland! I must check out the previous 3 stories in the Coastal Hearts Series!
A soul feast!
If I had to use one word to describe it, it would be: Incredible.
This is another Coastal Hearts Novel from an exceptional storyteller.
Disclosure: I was given an Audible version of this book by the author. A favorable review was not required.
When I put this book on my to read list, I knew from the book blurb that Star (main female character) had a past that included abuse. I don’t choose to read many books with characters who’ve suffered abuse because I can relate all too well. I did not realize that Star’s past also included issues with drug/alcohol addiction. That’s an issue I know less about. There’s only one other book series I’ve read that the characters seemed so real to me that I found myself praying for them. Now there’s another. Bless Star’s heart! (And I don’t mean that in the Southern lady sarcastic way). She is a strong gal, for sure. I liked her. I even hope that eventually I’ll get to read more of her story as she matures in her recovery and relationship. (Hint, hint). This is a thoroughly clean Christian romance and I applaud the author for her strong stance taken to keep the characters wholesome. As for the narration, given Star’s character background, I thought the reader’s stern voice was good. I might not feel that way with a different book.
Star Youngblood just received her one year sober chip and is preparing to move out of Reclaimed, the Christian addiction ministry which helped turn her life around. Although she has a job helping elderly Mrs. Kelly, she’s also looking for something more permanent, though her choices are limited as a high school drop-out with addiction in her past.
Paul Kelly has worked hard to become a private pilot for his European boss. He’s saving for the day he can return to the States and help his mom in her retirement. When his mom suffers a health crisis and Paul receives an anxious and accusing phone call from her assistant, he can’t wait to give the woman a piece of his mind.
Though Star and Paul don’t like each other, their shared concern over Mrs. Kelly binds them together. He can’t wait to find other arrangements for his mom’s care, and he’s tired of hearing Star’s Bible talk. He had enough of that during his years as a missionary in Africa, and after the way his tenure on the field ended, he has no use for God or religion.
There were many things I enjoyed about this story. The characters feel real, they tackle deep issues, and there are laugh-out-loud moments. Janet W. Ferguson weaves an adventure that also has a strong faith focus. I appreciated how much Scripture was in this novel. Some readers might call it preachy, but I’m a Christian who does try to live her life by the guidance of the Bible, and I thought it was really great to see that here in this book.
This was my first time reading this author, but it won’t be the last. I look forward to more of her works in the future!
Star Rising by Janet W. Ferguson
A Coastal Hearts Novel
Paul Kelly left God behind after a series of events he went through. He really doesn’t like the man he works for, but it’s good money. He plans to save enough to move back to Georgia and take care of his mother. All that changes when he gets a call about his mother being in the hospital.
Star Youngblood has come a long way in her life. Her childhood had been rotten to the core and she used drugs and alcohol to forget. But now, she’s been clean for a year and she has God in her life. She fights her new beliefs when it comes to Mrs. Kelly’s son though. She’s been her caretaker and knows the son hasn’t visited or called much. And now that he is here, she wishes he werent.
Priscilla Kelly had a dream to visit Ireland for her anniversary, but plans change. Her husband passed away. She’s decided to go anyway. Paul refuses to allow her to go…so she takes Star. Circumstances end up with Paul joining them. But it seems whatever could go wrong for Paul…did. I loved this story and it’s amazing how often when God is working in our lives, we see it as punishment instead of polishing.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/2016/04/book-list-for-janet-ferguson.html
“You may’ve given up on God, but I feel in my spirit that He’s still pursuing you. He loves you, and He’s got better things in store for you when you really let Him own you.”
These words show the struggle between the two main characters in this book. Star is striving to live a life fully given over to God and drawing upon His strength; while Paul who used to be a missionary, has been hurt by people claiming to have a relationship with God, and now is pushing that life away.
This was a wonderful story of redemption and love. I was touched with many of the quotes and examples this author uses to show us God’s love. The struggles and emotions Paul has are so true to many of us. We wonder where is God in our pain? I loved Star’s determination to live a better life, even after all that she went through growing up. She was striving to rise above all her struggles and wrong choices. It was also fun to see some of the characters from previous books come into this story. I loved how it flowed together.
Another sweet thing about this book is that the author took us on a beautiful trip to Ireland. It was exhilarating to picture the stunning parts of that country. It made me want to take a trip there and see things for myself.
If you want to read a book that weaves a beautiful tale of love, redemption, healing, and hope, then you want to pick this up. As these characters go through some tough times, the author sweetly brings in the hope we all can have in God. It’s not pushy, or fake. She presences it in a very real way. It will touch your heart and challenge you to dig deeper, to question what you really personally feel.
I think I will continue to read more of Janet W. Ferguson’s books. The ones I’ve read have touched my heart.
I highly recommend you pick this book up to read
I love every book Janet W. Ferguson has written!
OH MY HOLY OY!! THIS BOOK!!
More than a couple of similarities to my life, namely that I struggle with rheumatoid arthritis. Not to the degree Priscilla Kelly does, but oh! how I can relate!
It doesn’t get much more real than a believer who has turned his back on God. And the struggle doesn’t get more heartbreaking for the believer(s) who love them.
Ms. Ferguson’s story pulls the reader right into that struggle, putting fiery Star and cynical and distrustful Paul at odds. Then she throws them together, and like iron sharpens iron, they discover neither is quite what they first thought.
The spiritual and Biblical elements in this story feed both Paul’s cynicism and anger, and Star’s faith and buoyant personality.
This book is definitely a page-turner, urging the reader to the end. Love and joy and hope, human hurts and human hearts, tragedy and miracles, Ms. Ferguson has written a winning story that will resound with the reader.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | 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, Star Rising, Janet Ferguson, Coastal Hearts Novel
Wow, this book blew me away! I’ve wanted to read Star Rising ever since I first saw the gorgeous cover and learned that it was partly set in Ireland (one of my favorite settings to read about!) so of course I jumped at the chance to request a review copy!
This book is so amazing, I loved everything about it and hated to stop reading!
Star and Paul were both fabulous characters! I loved Star, and I so wish she were real because I would love to be friends with her. Paul was very broken and a bit jaded, but his humanness was so real and relatable that I couldn’t help but like him and I was rooting for him to find his way back to God! Also, I loved Davis, he made me smile and laugh every time he showed up on the page, and I’m so hoping he will get his own book!
The faith story in this book is beautifully threaded throughout. It wove itself around my heart, and won’t let go!
Star Rising is an absolutely fabulous book! Reading it made me so happy, and I absolutely adored it from start to finish! Definitely one for the keeper shelf, and I know it’s one that I will re-read in the future!
I most highly recommend Star Rising, read it ASAP, you won’t regret it!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Star Youngblood is a strong young lady taking care of another strong but older woman. Priscilla Kelly enjoys living, but it is difficult for her because of her rheumatoid arthritis. This is the reason she hired Star to stay with her and help her out. But Mrs. Kelly’s son Paul didn’t like the setup, despite the fact that he never came to see his mom. But he has his job for now but he is determined to move his mother to as assisted living community. As soon as he saves enough money to open his new business. He wasn’t expecting his mom to take off on her trip of a lifetime with her employee Star, none the less. When he ended up on the trip as well, he never expected his life to change as it did.
Author Janet Ferguson pens another amazing, well written story that will keep her readers thinking about it long after it’s read. I love the interaction between Star and Paul. Star was now a Christian and Paul claimed to have given up on everything to do with God, but Star’s faith was too strong. I could understand Paul being upset with the Christians he had worked with before, but not his crossing God out of his life because of a persons behavior was a bit harsh. And Paul’s mom was so precious! I love her sweet character and he love for her son, and for Star.
A lot of things happen in this story, a lot of tensions much of the time, but it all fit perfectly well as Ms. Ferguson weaves it all together in the end. I really liked the Christian faith of the characters, and though Star’s faith came across so strong with Paul, it was still so subtle and handled in a professional way. It’s what Christian fiction is all about. I love this story, as well as the other stories in this series. If you are looking for a good clean Christian read, this is an awesome one to read. And if you are new to Janet W. Ferguson books, I highly recommend you check out this one a d her other books as well.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
My gosh! This story y’all! I can’t believe it!
The message that was in this book is exactly what my pastor talked about in church this morning! How wild is that!
Yes, I actually listened lol.
Star is an amazing character. She’s proof of overcoming that’s for sure. I love her determination along with God’s help to be what she could be and I loved rooting her on!
Paul was a little harder in getting to know. He’s perfect example of selfishness. Only thinking about himself. But, you know what? I rooted him on too! God sure had His work cut out for Him in Paul. Agreed that we’re all a work in progress. Too often we want to do things our way and not God’s so that often gets us in trouble. That’s where Love and Grace comes in.
I can relate to Mrs.Kelly in sooooooo many ways. I felt like I knew her by the time this book was over. I ended up calling her the Wise Woman by the time this story was over. I didn’t want to say goodbye to her. Such an awesome lady.
We all fall short of the Glory of God but thank God for His unending Love and Grace.
I liked this story better than the first book. It was a lot more exciting and had more drama than I’ve ever seen and that my friends is why I enjoyed it
I also enjoyed a little vacation with Paul, Star and Mrs. Kelly. I felt like I was really there!
Ferguson has managed to pull me in from the beginning and yes I was sniffling there towards the end. You might want a box of tissues.
I enjoyed getting to know Morris, Linda, and all of the other supporting characters.
I also felt that Ferguson has pulled off a very tough subject and has managed to weave it in very nicely with the rest of the storyline.
I highly recommend it.
Hopefully this will be a blessing to someone else and if they’re in a situation like Star’s I’m hoping that they will be able get help.
My thanks to Just Reads Tours and I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
A cute cover, interesting blurb, and a new to me author all drew me to read Star Rising.
I’m glad I did, it was a nice book, with a lot of depth, good content, and a wonderful message of forgiveness, redemption, and God’s love.
I enjoyed reading about the traveling the characters did, the descriptions were spot on, the story development was well written, and in all it was like a was much like a Hallmark movie, but more serious, sweeter, and redemption filled.
With Star Rising being the first book I’ve read by Janet Fergurson I look forward to reading more of her books as soon as I’m not so busy with blogging, and life.
At times I did not like reading Paul’s point of view but it grew on me as the story went on.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.