A mysterious letter alluding to a secret in her parents’ past brings Genevieve Woodward back to her Blue Ridge Mountains hometown, but she’s also in need of a break from a high-profile career that has left her dangerously burned out and concealing a powerful secret of her own. When she wakes inside an unfamiliar cottage to find the confused owner staring down at her, she can no longer ignore the … the fact that she needs help.
Sam Turner has embraced his sorrow and his identity as an outsider. The solitary, disciplined life he lives on his historic farm is the life he’s chosen for himself. The last thing he wants is to rent his cottage to a woman as troubled as she is talkative. Yet, he can’t force himself to turn her away right when she needs him most.
As Genevieve researches her family’s history and her and Sam’s emotions deepen, they will have to let go of the facades and loneliness they’ve clung to and allow light to illuminate every hidden truth.
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Good gracious. This book was PHENOMENAL. Gen and Sam’s story is one that has left me with the biggest book hangover I’ve ever experienced. Becky Wade doesn’t shy away from tackling real issues prevalent in these times. But she handles them with care and honesty. And she always finds the perfect way to knit in hilarity and chemistry-packed romance. This is a novel that transcends genres. I can’t wait to read it again.
I absolutely, unequivocally, without a doubt adore Stay with Me by Becky Wade. This story walloped my heart. I chuckled. I cried. I got frustrated. I cheered. And I swooned! Stay with Me is jam-packed with so many inspirational moments I may have overwhelmed the highlight function on my Kindle. LOL! But in all seriousness, this book is gold. It’s well-written. It’s heartfelt. And, it illustrates well some of God’s truths and His grace. I met unique, damaged, endearing characters that I won’t soon forget. And, I learned a little bit more about who I am and who I want to be. Stay with Me by Becky Wade is a can’t-be-missed, must-read novel. I highly, highly recommend this story.
Stay with Me is a story about hiding our true selves from the world and sharing only that which makes us look “perfect.” Why do we hide? Because many people enjoy shaming and tearing down others. If we make a mistake, not only will we have to deal with our own feelings of shame and inadequacy, but we will have to deal with the meanness of others who revel in our failings. We care about what others think. We want people to think we are good, honorable women and men who live godly, respectful lives. So, we hide who we truly are. We put on a society-approved mask and hide everything “bad” about ourselves. We do this long enough and the society-approved mask becomes our identity. When we slip and show a moment of our true self, the world is left aghast and we are left ashamed and embarrassed. Everyone makes mistakes, but for some reason in our current day and age, we are not allowed to actually make mistakes. The world has lost sight of humility, grace, and forgiveness, and people are suffering because of it.
Inside all of us is a right vs. wrong meter. It’s different in everyone, but it’s there. It’s that feeling you get in the pit of your chest when you know with every fiber of your being that you are doing something wrong or something right. Some call it conscience. I call it the Holy Spirit. Genevieve, the heroine of Stay with Me, looks like the perfect Christian. She has written highly-acclaimed Bible studies, she has spoken at packed-out churches, she has millions of followers on all her social media platforms, and she’s even part of the Miracle 5 (read the book to find out what this means). Genevieve looks like she has it all: a supportive mother and father, an older sister who is also her best friend, the sweetest niece and nephew, tons of money, the latest fashions, and a super cute home. While the outside picture, for Genevieve, is true, it’s not a 100% accurate picture of who she is. Gen has some really scary issues she must deal with or she could end up hurt, dead, or the reason someone else is hurt or dead. But to deal with these issues means she will have to come clean to everyone — her bosses, her family, and her followers. Gen struggles with the idea of revealing her truth because she knows she’s going to be treated to a hefty dish of meanness, belittling, and emotional scourging by the world. So, she covers up her right vs. wrong meter and keeps being the “perfect” Christian. This lying, this Holy Spirit shut down, makes it impossible for Gen to hear God. And this is the great truth Stay with Me forces the reader to wrestle with: who are we living this life for?
1 John 2:15 states, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” Genevieve’s number one conflict in this novel is that she cannot feel God’s presence in her life anymore. But she is unwilling to speak her truth, to show who she really is, to accept God’s grace in the truthtelling. She doesn’t want to lose her status as “Best Christian Woman Ever.” Because of this, because she is stuck in the world of her own making, she is no longer in the Father. This is why she cannot feel God’s presence. Yes, writing Bible studies is awesome. Talking to standing-room-only crowds about God is a great thing. Sharing God on social media platforms is exactly what is needed — social media is a DARK place and needs a lot of LIGHT. But to close off her right vs. wrong meter and choose all these worldly aspects of Christianity over being right and honest with God is to choose a secular world over a phenomenal Father, and we cannot kid ourselves into believing that our Christian actions are good enough when we are not right with God. I won’t share how Gen learns this lesson because the moment is stellar, but I will say its impact on me will be lifelong and one I won’t soon forget.
Stay with Me is an excellent story and it has affected me deeply. Yes, it is well-written and fast-paced and highly engaging. Yes, the characters are fantastic and the romance is perfect. But Stay with Me is a must-read novel because of the timely themes and their impact on the reader. This story is heart-changing and for that, I highly, highly recommend this beautiful novel.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via Prism Book Tours and NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I really enjoyed this novel that digs into the felt need to maintain a facade that all is well, even when it isn’t. Add in layers of sweet romance and a family mystery that could pull a family apart, and it was a book I couldn’t stay away from. Another great read from one of my favorite contemporary romance authors.
In my humble opinion this is Wade’s best work. I was riveted from the first page. I couldn’t put it down. The characters are wonderful, the story-line is gripping and, the inspirational message is one every heart needs to hear. I laughed out loud. I cried tears of joy. The ending is beautiful and I am blessed to have read it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher and this is my honest opinion.
“Kissing Gen would be like playing with a stick of lit dynamite.”
Stay with Me, the first installment in award-winning author Becky Wade’s Misty River Romance series, is guaranteed to be a hit with fans of contemporary romance. With powerful authenticity and deep realism, Becky Wade pens a heartwarming tale of unexpected love, while also tackling difficult topics that are extremely relevant in today’s society.
Genevieve Woodward returns to her hometown after receiving a disturbing letter hinting at secrets from her family’s past when she meets Sam Turner. Genevieve reminds Sam of all the pain he is trying to forget from his own past, but their lives continue to intersect as their relationship develops from “one notch above strangers” to possibly something more.
While becoming invested in Sam and Genevieve’s developing relationship, readers will also be introduced to the other members of the “Miracle Five” who, along with Genevieve, survived a devastating earthquake 18 years earlier while on a junior high mission trip. Their flashbacks bring an additional layer of authenticity to the present-day storyline. I was especially drawn to Luke’s heartbreaking story via the flashbacks, and I hope that readers will have the opportunity to learn more of his backstory as the series continues. “As always when she thought of Luke, sorrow, love and guilt knotted her stomach.”
Becky Wade shares the message of God’s grace and truth even when we feel undeserving of His incredible gifts. Stay with Me is highly recommended for readers of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy books by authors such as Denise Hunter, Courtney Walsh and Susan May Warren.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
“The things we’ve experienced are always a part of us.”
Another award-winner for Becky Wade!!
‘Grief and regret were never far from him. They walked beside him every day. Laid down with him at night.’
I find it hard to begin this review because the book was so powerfully moving. I’m afraid I can’t do it justice. But I must try. Becky Wade’s books have always moved me. One thing I appreciate about her writing is that she never shies away from the Gospel message. This right here is the stuff that ministers to her readers. I’ve read nearly every single book of hers at least twice, and some three times. This one is destined for the same thing.
‘Every day she prayed. And prayed. And continued to seek a peace she could not find.’
Genevieve Woodward comes back to her hometown in the Georgia mountains because of an anonymous letter she’s received about a secret in her parents’ past. Gen needs a break from her career as an acclaimed Bible study author, teacher and speaker and is burned out with even concealing a terrific secret of her own, one that could destroy her. She wakes up in an unfamiliar cottage to the owner staring down at her and she knows right then she must get help.
Sam Turner has carved out a life for himself on this historic farm and with owning a kitchen in town that caters to healthful eating. He’s content. He thinks. Sam is carrying such a load of sorrow and regret that he feels as if he’s drowning at times. But he’s disciplined himself to this life and he has no desire to allow Gen to intrude on his well ordered life. But he just can’t seem to turn away from her because she desperately needs help.
Becky Wade launches out into some very deep waters with this first novel in her new series, probing the depths of human emotion, bondages and grace. She writes with a depth that makes me weep, which I did frequently during this reading. She manages to create characters with emotions so well it’s hard to believe they are fictional people on pages. I read in wonderment at her talent for weaving a story so full and rich, a talent surely given by God. The emotions Stay With Me evoked in my heart were astoundingly powerful and there were times I simply had to put the book down and just ponder at the deep truths of God contained therein. Truly, this book was so incredibly deep, that I think it just may be Wade’s best work to date. Awestruck is a word that fits when you finish this book. It is not a book to be put aside and another picked up right away. It is a book that fills your mind and heart for days ahead and one that will probably never truly leave you. I was blessed beyond measure by the reading of this book. I very highly recommend it. It is headed to the top of my top reads list in 2020.
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
A multi-layered romance with engaging characters and a mystery woven in!
Becky Wade has penned another emotional, realistic, and heart-touching story in Stay with Me, the first book in her Misty River Romance series. The characters are realistic, flawed, and engaging. I loved Genevieve’s fun-loving personality and Sam’s more subdued, but compassionate, one. Their dialogue went from witty and playful to serious and intense and everywhere in between. I enjoyed seeing their relationship change and grow.
“It didn’t feel like he was coming in from the cold of one autumn night. It felt like he was coming in from seven years of cold.”
“She could not pay God back for saving her. Goodness knows, she’d tried.”
This is a story of redemption, of grace, of hope under difficult circumstances. Wade is great at tackling difficult subjects sensitively and beautifully. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
A new Becky Wade novel is always something to celebrate for this reader – and when it’s the start of a series, even better! Stay with Me introduces readers to Genevieve Woodward, a popular speaker and Bible study author. She is also a part of the Miracle Five, a group of kids that survived a devastating earthquake while on a mission trip. Being a part of this group has impacted their adolescence and the rest of their lives, sending some on a journey to live a life worthy of their life being spared, while others take a darker turn.
Genevieve is definitely on the side of making good on God sparing her life. She feels duty bound to produce goodness for the kingdom of God, but over time, it gradually became a mask to hide her personal struggles. Hiding behind her grateful, extroverted personality is an addiction to opioids, which began innocently enough when she was recovering from a nasty ankle injury. I really appreciated Wade tackling this what-if type of situation, since, after all, Christian authors and speakers are people too and aren’t exempt from temptations and struggles.Drug addiction is truly no respecter of person; it can take anyone from any and every walk of life, and I applaud Wade for portraying that in this story. Sam seems like the last person that would be right to help Genevieve. Their personalities are complete opposite; his is stoic and reserved, while hers is bright and extroverted. His previous experience with drug addiction and the intense destruction is causes makes him to be both drawn to her and keep her at arms length. He doesn’t want to risk his heart to what he considers another failure at helping a drug-addicted person.
Despite the heavier topic, the story is not without humor either. I loved the relationship between Genevieve and her sister, Natalie – especially their quoting of Pride and Prejudice. There are beautiful moments of friendship and familial reconciliation, along with a good bit of family mystery. The setting is charming; I loved Genevieve’s cottage, as well as the beautiful descriptions of Sam’s farm. The reader is also introduced to other members of the Miracle Five ahead of the next book in the series. My favorite part is Genevieve’s letter at the end; it resonated with me deeply. I eagerly await book two in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Stay With Me, by Becky Wade, the first book in A Misty River Romance series, is an emotionally-stirring novel rich with relevancy and meaning. Even while incorporating difficult themes like addiction, guilt, and pride, Ms. Wade succeeds in crafting a thoroughly compelling story that is redemptive, uplifting, and memorable. With characters that are truly authentic and captivating, this book is a genuine pleasure to read and to savor. Elements of sweet romance, a small town setting, and even a bit of mystery further enrich this novel and ensure that it entertains and satisfies from the first page to the last.
With thoughtfulness and undeniable skill, Ms. Wade has written a novel that is deeply moving and remarkably charming. As the characters endeavor to heal from choices that are heavy with shame and remorse, they find support in each other as their wounded hearts begin to mend through the power of vulnerability, honesty, forgiveness, and trust. Hope is renewed as grace is given the opportunity to flourish, and faith is nurtured by the gifts of mercy and compassion.
Stay With Me is a terrific novel that effectively engages the reader’s senses, emotions, and imagination. With a compelling plot, endearing characters, and thought-provoking themes, this well-written book is a must-read. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through Prism Book Tours. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Stay with Me stands as a prime example of why Becky Wade rates as one of my favorite contemporary romance writers. So many elements worked together to form this beautiful story. It had Pride and Prejudice quotes, laugh-out-loud humor, emotional drama, family secrets, and an unfolding romance. The story held my attention as the characters dealt with tough issues such as prescription drug addiction, trauma, and following God’s leading. To me, the story didn’t feel dark or heavy, but I recognize that it could be more difficult for those who know someone struggling with prescription drug addiction or have fought that battle themselves. Thankfully, there is so much hope and truth in Stay with Me.
As I reviewed my notes on Stay with Me, I found seventeen topics or issues that the novel touched on. There are probably some that I missed. Though the story taps so many issues, it focuses in on only a few and wraps up beautifully in the end. I recommend Stay with Me to readers who enjoy contemporary romances with plenty of character development and spiritual truths.
Stay with Me by Becky Wade debuts as the first full-length novel in the Misty River Romance series. There is a prequel, Take a Chance on Me, in which Sam appears as a minor character; however, it is not necessary to read the prequel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this ebook by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Can you hear my happy sigh over there?
Becky Wade has created another stunning, heart-wrenching, romantic novel.
And, Sam, please don’t get me started about how kind, caring, supportive, and altogether wonderful he is. He gives Ty Porter a “run for his money” and wins in my book. He’s only matched in bravery and soul with Genevive, a character you want to fold into a hug and chat with over a cup of coffee.
I won’t tell once ounce of this story, please get this book to experience the “feels” for yourself. It is gorgeous!
There’s more to come in the series and I’m ecstatic!
I received this book from the author and was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
I admit that I am struggling a little to write a review for this book, because how do you review such an absolutely wonderful book? I feel as though any praise I give it will be inadequate to how fantastic it truly is! Suffice it to say, this novel has all the things that make any Becky Wade book great—characters with realistic struggles and imperfect lives with which we as readers can easily identify, raw spiritual truths that strike a chord in our own spiritual walk, and clean romance that makes us swoon! I absolutely loved Sam! He is shaped by past mistakes but it has made him into such a wonderful man! (And not only is he handsome but he can cook?! Yes please!) And I really liked how Becky handled a sensitive addiction in the novel, with careful research and accurate, often less than rosy, portrayals of its consequences. The themes of forgiveness, mercy, and grace were strong in the story and really made me think and, at times, made me cry as the characters realized the same truths. I love how her writing is so seamless that you can spend hours reading and still find yourself completely immersed in the book. I enjoyed the setting of Misty River and the other characters in the novel and I am very excited to read more about them in the rest of the series. The family mystery in the story had twists and turns that surprised me and further added to the complexity of the book. I truly could go on and on about how much I love this book, but instead I’ll just say, go buy a copy yourself and enjoy this highly recommend novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Becky Wade never disappoints! This book is one of her best in my opinion. It deals with super hard topics but is still has the fun elements that make her books great. As always the romance was superb and Sam was a heartthrob and will be at the top of my list of hero’s. Make sure to read this book. It is well worth it.
I was given an advance copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
In the first full-length novel in Becky Wade’s new Misty River series, we get a look at characters who are flawed and struggling, dealing with real issues. I loved gruff Sam from the get-go; it took me a little longer to actually like Gen, but even while she grated on me a little, I did appreciate her journey. For both characters, I really enjoyed seeing how they had to apply their faith to real-life situations and figure out how they were getting in their own way and needed to trust God to truly help them. I also liked seeing their blossoming relationship; I love good banter between romantic leads, and there were some really great lines in this book.
Based on the cover, this might seem like a fluffy romance, but there’s a lot of depth. There’s also a lot of hope and great messages about introspection, forgiveness, redemption, and more–but without ever being preachy.
Great start to a new series!
4 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
Regardless of his weakness, in God’s strength he could do the one thing within his ability.
He could stay.
Becky Wade’s Misty River series kicks off with a magnificent story of faith, grace, and love. “Stay With Me” tackles major issues facing our society today, primarily addiction and its aftermath, in a way that is so astoundingly eloquent it is nearly impossible to put the book down.
Wade knows just how to intertwine elements of faith, romance, and intrigue it is almost painfully beautiful. The reader is completely entranced by the story from the first pages, and it is difficult to see it end.
Genevieve and Sam are achingly irresistible protagonists, with struggles and emotions any reader can relate to. Their journeys are portrayed so the reader is constantly engaged and, by the end, is infinitely inspired.
It is going to be so hard to wait for the rest of the series to release, as Wade has already set up impossibly absorbing storylines, including a love triangle and an imprisoned hero. The background of the main characters as natural disaster survivors weaves a complex web of guilt, gratefulness, and hope that already sets this series up as one you absolutely cannot miss.
“Stay With Me” is tear-jerking, inspirational, and unmissable. Grab a copy as soon as you’re able!
Disclaimer: I received a free advance copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I was not obligated to write a positive review.
I’m sitting here in that happy/sad place when you’ve finished an amazing book like Stay with Me by Becky Wade. You’re so satisfied with the ending, but also so sad that story has come to an end.
Stay With Me’s main characters are Genevieve, a Bible study writer and a person with secrets, and Sam, an Australian farmer living in Georgia. It’s a beautiful love story with wonderful kisses, heartfelt moments, some mystery, and enough humor to keep you laughing and smiling. But most importantly, Becky Wade reminds us that our God is big, He loves us so very deeply, and that grace and redemption are part of His eternal plan. She encourages us to live in the light of God our Father and not in the shadows. My heart will never be the same.
I’ve so enjoyed my time in Misty River, Georgia reading Stay with Me. My only consolation to finishing the book is knowing that I will get to revisit Misty River in future books by Becky Wade.
I highly highly recommend Stay With Me and promise you that your faith will grow and your heart will be happy when you read it.
I was given a copy of this book by publisher and not required to write a review.
Becky Wade has created another stunning, heart-wrenching, romantic novel.
And, Sam, please don’t get me started about how kind, caring, supportive, and altogether wonderful he is. He gives Ty Porter a “run for his money” and wins in my book. He’s only matched in bravery and soul with Genevive, a character you want to fold into a hug and chat with over a cup of coffee.
I won’t tell one ounce of this story, please get this book to experience the “feels” for yourself. It is gorgeous!
There’s more to come in the series and I’m ecstatic!
This book was deep! Genevieve and Sam had deeply rooted issues to overcome. I loved watching them grow from what they stumbled over. The subplot of Gen’s parents had me at the edge of my seat! It’s been awhile since I’ve read a nearly 400 page book, I loved how thick it was and it smelled good. The details of this story were so precise and vivid. I could picture her outfits every time. Sam, oh sweet Sam..you’ll love his soul.
This story was about Genevieve finding her connection again with God. She’d lost her way and tried desperately to hear Him and feel Him. But there was a part of herself in which she had to uncover first. Find out what it is in this 5 star story!