When the truth cost her everything, she thought there was nothing left to lose.Mikayla Gordon loves nothing more than sleeping under the stars, reeling in the “big one,” and long hikes in the wilderness. A medical crisis reveals a 30-year-old secret that turns everything she’s known and believed upside down, unraveling her dreams and her identity.In search of answers, she follows a trail from … follows a trail from Minnesota to Colorado and discovers more unwelcome secrets even as she falls in love with the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, and a wilderness camp leader who shares the greatest secret of all.
Knowing her life can never go back to what it was, she must make decisions that will impact far more than just her future.
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MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
As I read this book, I couldn’t help but wonder how I would feel to find out devastating news that would rip our family to shreds. This is just what happened to Mikayka Gordon. And following her journey to find answers was hurtful yet interesting. The cast of characters were a delightful group and I enjoyed the close knit family. I did feel so bad for Mikayla, my heart was just breaking as she started finding answers to her past life. The author does a very nice job of creating the tension to keep readers interesting, and then weaving the many loose ends and the surprising twists to the story together to create a beautiful ending. This is a beautiful Heartwarming read that I recomend for your enjoyment.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
When Mountains Sings is a wonderful story of love, family, faith, and acceptance. We are reminded that family is not determined by blood ties and the greatest love and acceptance comes from our relationship with God. This is the first book of the My Father’s House series that is part of the new Mosaic Collection and I am so glad that I was able to read it. It is also my first Stacy Monson book and I will certainly look for more of her books!
I recommend this book to all who enjoy Christian romance and faith-based fiction.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts in this review.
You can read my complete blog review at Older & Smarter? https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot.com/
Mikayla is an outdoors enthusiast writing for an outdoors magazine who dreams of heading a section geared to females in a male-dominated forum. Her ultimate dream is to start a camping experience especially for females.
During a medical procedure, she discovers that her father is not her bio dad (among other secrets) and sets off on her own to find her bio dad and ultimately herself. On her travels she meets and works briefly as a guide for Dawson, who runs a faith-based outdoor adventure camp in Colorado.
Dawson helps her to overcome some of her grief and anger and to search out and draw nearer to God and His plan for her life (with a hint of romance thrown in as well).
Not perfect but a well-written story. I would definitely read more in the series.
Stacy Monson’s compelling novel, When Mountains Sing ties together twin themes of belonging and identity. What makes us who we are? Is it family and relationships, which, incidentally, are beautifully, genuinely and positively portrayed here? Or is our identity found in our vocation and interests? The natural world is so vividly described in Monson’s writing that it becomes a well-beloved character.
Mikayla Gordon, a fearless outdoors enthusiast and ambitious magazine writer stands to lose it all when a fluke health crisis leads her to investigate her family history. She discovers that DNA testing, so popular and eagerly sought out these days, has a down-side. Panicked and confused by the unexpected results, she heads west to the Colorado Rockies seeking out the father she never knew. Her anger and sense of betrayal at discovering the secret grow as she faces one setback after another on her quest. Issues of trust and identity are skillfully explored in this not-so-light novel. There’s a welcome hint of romance, and just like real-life, not everything is wrapped up by the end, allowing readers to take the characters with them after they close its pages.
I particularly like a book with substance, and this one doesn’t shy away from questions of forgiveness, of meaning and of God’s purposes in suffering, making for a thought-provoking read.
In my opinion, it is an indication of a pretty good book when a character elicits strong reactions from me as a reader. Mikayla Gordon did just that to me. While I could empathize with her unexpected medical emergency, her reactions seemed a bit over-the-top to me, especially the sneaky methods she used to collect DNA samples of her family. Then her refusal to listen to explanations was also somewhat disturbing. So, although I definitely did not always agree with this character, I did find her story intriguing and was encouraged by the spiritual growth that was revealed as it progressed.
When Mountains Sing is a fun to read tale of family secrets, forgiveness, spiritual growth, and reconciliation with a touch of romance. I enjoyed the background setting in the mountains of Colorado with its vivid descriptions, especially Dawson’s version of how the mountains sing. Overall this is an excellent book and I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it. I am sure other readers will enjoy it also.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I thought this was a great story. The characters are well rounded and the story telling is excellent. I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary review.
Mikayla’s life was going in the directions she chose, everything was good. Suddenly the unexpected…a health issue that brings huge changes in her life, but changes not solely with her health…but with her entire being. Her life as she knew it.
Leaving her home to find answers brings even more life changing events. Some not so good, others good. Learning, forgiving as well as overcoming becomes her life.
I related so personally to this book. It touched me very much. Why, because I recently found my mother’s father, in a similar situation, and I know that people make mistakes, they try to do better, and sometimes that is hard and difficult for others to understand that have not experienced those mistakes, and the feelings and longings to find the truth.
I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading more of this fascinating series!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
I had never read this author before but after this book I am definitely following her and anxious to read her other books! I laughed and I cried. I related to the characters and wasn’t ready for the story to end. Get the book, you won’t be disappointed!
Before reading this book, you should go read Dawson‘s backstory in Monson’s Novella in the Mosaic Collection’s anthology “Before Summer Ends.” This was a wonderful book about family and trust and accepting yourself. I really enjoyed the adventures in this book.
This is an amazing book! It’s a story of lies, omissions, family and finding faith. Often when we “live and let live” as the saying goes, it hurts those we love, lets small things in life become huge, and, lives are ruined. This is a story-line of putting family back in the forefront with the help of God, confessions and willingness to forgive. My favorite line in the book is now on my “don’t forget wall” — “The truth will always come out, but we can do damage control by owning our mistakes, asking forgiveness, and working through the fallout.” This is a book for anyone and will keep your heart in the right place.
So much about this book is just delightful! It’s a lovely story all around. The setting is gorgeous and takes me back to campfires in the mountains of my youth. All the characters are likeable (some in a quirky way)–but real with real problems to overcome. I especially appreciated the close bond between the main character and her father, as it’s very realistic and yet not so common today. WHEN MOUNTAINS SING is an easy-reading book that will leave you with good feelings.
I’m torn on this book- there are things I liked about it, and things that bothered me. It was difficult for me to get involved in the story and invested in the characters at first, I think because there was a lot of mundane in the narrative. When Mikayla steals DNA from her family members for a DNA test I thought that was pretty unethical, and then her extreme over the top reaction was off-putting. I thought it was strange that she wanted answers but wouldn’t listen to anything from the people who had the answers she was looking for. Once she was off on her adventure, calmed down, and got a job at the camp while she waited for someone to return to Colorado, I felt like the real character building began. I was interested in her friendship with Dawson and how he gently led her to a place where she could open up to her fears and turn to God with them. I didn’t feel any romantic chemistry on her end- she seemed ambivalent about developing a long-term relationship with him because she had plans to leave. I appreciated the messages of faith and the way Mikayla enjoys her hands-on job of helping the youth fall in love with the outdoors versus writing about it for a magazine. Overall, I think with tighter content editing and more expression from Mikayla about her feelings for Dawson, this would be a fabulous book.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I have been eagerly awaiting the release of the Mosaic Collection series and let me tell you When Mountains Sing was the perfect way to start this unique collection. If I could give six stars I would! Raw and real, Mikayla Gordon is searching to find a piece of herself that she didn’t realize was even missing. Circumstances that are out of her control thrust her into a journey of self discovery that we all can relate to in one way or another. Seeing the fingerprints of God all over this unfortunate situation gives the reader hope amiss their own unfavorable circumstances, reminding us all that God does use all things for His good and His purpose.
This is the first novel that I’ve read by Stacy Monson and wow what an introduction! How she is able to flesh out her characters with such depth and put the reader on that mountain with stunning imagery is a pure talent. I am a sucker for a good ending and characters that I personally connect with and When Mountains Sing delivers. Though there is predictability in parts as a whole it is utter perfection, leaving me reading the last page with goosebumps and genuinely sad to see this incredible novel come it its conclusion.
A truly captivating, faith-filled novel that was motivational and inspirational, When Mountains Sings was truly a joy and honor to read.
I loved this book. A look at what family secrets can do to a seemingly perfect family. This is a truly emotional story. Caused me to take a look at myself and let some things go. A very well written book! Highly recommend.
This story made ME sing!! The Rockies and Colorado (my heart), hiking and being outdoors (also my heart), ministering to hurting kids—my heart! BONUS: Twins! I’ve always been fascinated with twins and multiples!
Ms. Monson’s story struck so many nerves on so many levels—I sank into this story and didn’t want to come back out.
We all search for something at some point in our lives. Sometimes that search is to seek answers to secrets. Sometimes it’s to find a missing person. Or an absent one. Almost always, our search involves discovering some element of our identity.
Oh, how I admired and applauded Mikayla’s quest when she could have just walked away and not looked back. Or pretended like nothing had happened and done nothing. Or imploded and sunk into depression.
As happens with soul quests, Mikayla found far more than what she set out looking for.
The people she encountered on her journey each played a part, each one providing a piece of the puzzle that is her life. Some chance encounters, some new and lifelong friends. I appreciated that the author didn’t make Mikayla’s quest an easy one, while not being so difficult as to crush her spirit. I read eagerly, as anxious as Mikayla herself to find the answers, and peace.
Like me, the mountains sing to Mikayla, are a balm to her bruised heart. Ms. Monson has gifted the reader with a raw story that touches the heart, ravages then sooths jagged nerves, and tumbles the emotions of the reader before the final note trills on the wind.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Wednesday, #TRD, Book Review, When Mountains Sing, Stacy Monson, Mosaic Collection, JustRead Publicity Tours
I received an e-copy of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity tours in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
When Mountains Sing weaves a tale of family, forgiveness and love! This story is sweet, compelling and faith-based.
At first, I felt this book moved somewhat slowly and felt a little repetitive to me as the premise for the story is set and the main character, Mikayla, begins to learn the truth about her past and identity. She continually compares herself to her siblings and parents which leads to questions and answers she wishes she didn’t suddenly have. These answers, and new tumultuous emotions, lead her on a journey to discover who she really is. About one third of the way into the story, more dialogue happens and I really began to enjoy the narrative. Mikayla is a strong character. When she finds herself in the mountains of Colorado, the story really began to unfold and become interesting in my opinion. Readers will follow along as she goes on a journey to discover herself, her heritage and her faith as she overcomes anger, grief and eventually learns to forgive. While the plot is predictable, Monson does a lovely job of creating great characters that are likable and relatable. I enjoyed how she incorporated strong faith elements into the story and offers readers a glimpse of how God can bring things together for good when we submit to Him. The ending is sweet and I found myself rooting for Mikayla and Dawson the whole time. Overall, a great book with a touching story that I recommend as a cozy weekend read!
A new to me Author, I now can add another favorite Author to my list. Stacy’s ministry in When Mountains Sing is top notch writing with characters I adored and now think about often as I go through my day. A powerful, heartfelt story that has your emotions all over the place. A story that we can all relate to in some fashion, one of showing us we need to forgive and trust in Him, that His timing is spectacular. And that He loves us no matter what! That He sees us for who we are meant to be, flaws and all, He loves us and guides our lives. Makayla and Dawson’s story is one I could not put down. I loved how Stacy took us on journeys through the mountains and created such a picturesque view that made me feel as if I was truly there. I look so forward to reading more of Stacy’s ministry and those who make up the Mosaic Collection.
Stacy Monson has written a wonderful story that will pull on all of the reader’s emotional heartstrings. It is the story of a young woman who is searching to find meaning and purpose for her life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the way that Stacy shared God’s heart for His people throughout this book. I would strongly urge people to get a copy and immerse themselves in this wonderful story. I did receive a complimentary copy of this book but have freely chosen to share my honest opinion of the book.
When a group of faith-based authors got together and determined to not only support each other, but to write novels that affirm their faith, the outcome is, without a doubt, a series of novels they will speak to the heart of readers everywhere. Thus, The Mosaic Collection was born.
When the Mountains Sing by Stacy Monson is the first volume in the series My Father’s House and is a true treasure. The author’s previous series, The Chain of Lakes won numerous awards; there is no doubt that Monson has penned the first, but not last, award-winning novel readers will see coming from The Mosaic Collection.
Mikayla Gordon is a lover of the outdoors and am experienced fisherwoman, thanks to beloved father. When she experiences a medical crisis, everything she believed about herself, her family and her world are turned topsy-turvy. Searching for answers to the soul-crushing experience, Mikayla travels from her home in Minnesota to Colorado. It is there, in the majestic Rocky Mountains, that Mikayla accepts employment with a youth wilderness camp.
Expecting to share her own wealth of knowledge and experience with the young campers, Mikayla is surprised by what she learns from her campers, the value of truth and grace.
The beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the wilderness camp and one very handsome owner of the wilderness camp, begins its healing in Mikayla’s hurting heart, but before true and complete healing can be accomplished, there are secrets that need to be exposed. Secrets that have followed her from Minnesota to Colorado; and the secrets the handsome owner of the wilderness camp holds.
The mountains have captured her heart, and so has the handsome wilderness camp owner, will the beauty of the mountains and it’s song, bring the answers Mikayla seeks?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
I’ve read books that I could relate to the character(s), but reading about Mikayla in this book was like meeting a kindred spirit.
I loved the story, I cried with her, I laughed with her, when she was sad, I was sad, her happiness was mine and I waited patiently for her to fall in love too.
I love the beautiful story of how she went on a journey both physical and spiritual to find answers and to find herself when all she believed turned out not as she thought it was. Her independent nature was so endearing. Her difference and uniqueness was just the highlight of the story for me. Her determination even in the face of lies and “mistakes” was a trait I wouldn’t forget in a one time.
Then there is Dawson. Awwwww… I love his heart and patience in dealing with the people around him. His heart for all he loved and believed in was inspiring. I love how he treated Mikayla with honour, integrity and respect even when he liked her. The twist and turns that brought and ultimately kept them together was beautifully written by Stacy.
I loved that the knowledge of God found in nature, prayers and the Word of God was the highlights of this book. I loved the way the characters came to the knowledge of God in their different and unique ways. No two lives are the same, this book thought me that, no two stories are the same either. Each of them had their own “ God story” and “God prod” as Dawson puts it and it was beautifully presented and very relatable.
I love how God worked behind the scenes even when it looked like He was not aware of what was going on and when it looked like it was just bad happening, was exemplified in this book. All things work together for good to those that love God and are called according to his purpose found complete expression in this book for me.
The setting of the book was superb, for one, I’d love to visit every place stated in this book. I loved that Mikayla was not the average girl that is interested in all girly things. I admire her love for outdoor and wanting to find her own tribe of women who loved the things she loved. (