An unexpected mother-to-beA romance-leery composerAnd a forgotten melody from the past that holds the keys to their futuresWhen Julia Jenkins’ great aunt dies and leaves her a Victorian mansion with decades of secrets, Julia never expects to unearth a World War 2 espionage mystery. Struggling with her own past since an assault left her pregnant, her future as a solo parent leaves her dreams … leaves her dreams uncertain. The inheritance from her great aunt gives Julia the ability to take a step back into her future, but also sends her into the discovery of a love story she’d never anticipated. As she goes through her aunt’s treasured possessions, Julia uncovers some oddly written piano music with a musical code she can’t decipher on her own. Not to worry, introverted Englishman and composer, Henry Wright, is thrust on the scene by a pair of homespun matchmakers who know the ‘right’ man for Julia’s wounded heart.
Henry arrives in Pleasant Gap with the task of composing the soundtrack for his best mate’s newest film. The Jenkins’ family’s southern welcome and gregarious personalities set his reticent nature on edge, but he’s inexplicably drawn to his gentle and music-loving hostess, Julia. Uncertain how to build a friendship with the wounded woman, and rather hopeless in communicating well through words, the bond of music becomes a bridge between her uncertainty and his awkwardness.
But her broken past and his families’ expectations build a wall much greater than the cultures that separate them. As they work together to solve a musical mystery from the grave, will an unlikely romance from the past inspire their hearts to trust in a God who’s written the perfect melody for their lives?
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Have you ever read a book that draws you so completely into the story that you can hear and feel the music the characters are playing? Where the emotional connection through the music strikes you so intensely that you feel bereft when the characters stop playing? This book did that for me. I’ve spent hours while reading it and since, listening to piano music, imagining Henry and Julia playing. Even now, while typing this, I feel the need to have piano music playing. I fell for Henry before I’d even finished chapter 2. Julia was so tender and kindhearted. And as always, Pepper Basham’s humor made me laugh out loud. This may just be my new favorite Pepper Basham novel. Go read it!
When You Look at Me, by Pepper Basham, resonates with anyone who has experienced extremely traumatic life events. Julia Jenkins, introvert and assault survivor, faces a difficult time when associating with people. When Henry Wright comes into her life, she reacts with reticence and trepidation. However, though both are introverts, they find a way to connect through music.
I appreciated how Julia’s family loved and supported her through her entire life. Many families are neither loving nor caring, even in these situations. Though Henry didn’t experience such profound life events, his family, unfortunately, was not supportive or helpful to him, either.
Basham’s latest novel covers a lot of issues, but they are handled in a realistic and respectful way. In addition to the romantic element, there is also a hint of intrigue. The story was deep, emotional and sweet by turns, a story to be savored as you read.
When You Look at Me is the second novel in the Pleasant Gap series, a fact of which I was unaware until writing my review! Therefore, as you can guess, it works well as a stand-alone.
I received the book from the publishers and Just Read Tours. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
When You Look at Me was one of those stories that felt so very real as I read it. When I turned the last page, I felt as if I had lived this emotional journey with Julia and Henry, who, by the way, were simply wonderful people!
The author beautifully captured Julia’s mixed feelings regarding her pregnancy. She also expressed such honest emotions as Julia wrestled with feelings of attraction and possible love for Henry, yet battled fear and panic based on her past assault.
I loved the way Henry and Julia connected. It was clear that God had made them for each other. Watching as they discovered this for themselves was so sweet. I also thought Henry was an amazing and patient hero, loving both Julia and her child with a love fashioned after the amazing love that God gives to us.
When You Look at Me was a truly wonderful story and definitely a favorite of mine. It is book two in the series, and although I believe that When You Look at Me can probably be enjoyed as a standalone, the characters definitey overlap with those in book one, Just the Way You Are.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
My heart is filled with love for this book. Julia and Henry are both introverts but find a great way of communicating through music. I love that Henry tells Julia she is brave and courageous. I love how Julia rescues Henry.
The way they meet is one of the best “meet cute” scenes I’ve ever read.
Pepper Basham’s description of Appalachia, music, and the Blue Ridge mountains put me right there. She also deals with Julia’s tragedy and therapy very well.
Henry is a gentle hero. Julia has been wounded but not broken. Their love story is precious and healing.
One of my favorite scenes is between mother and daughter. Julia says; “I don’t know if I’m brave enough.” Her mother says; “You never will be. But the God who’s written the story of your life is brave enough for you, so you don’t have to carry the courage all by yourself.” There is more but you can read it for yourself. I guarantee you will laugh. You may cry a bit too, I did. You will definitely experience a wide range of emotions.
The mystery regarding Aunt Millie is fascinating! (I loved it!)
I highly recommend this book!
Julia was date raped, has the trial behind her, and only a couple months left of her pregnancy, when Wes and his friend Henry arrive in town. Henry composes music and he’s gentle enough to feel safe to talk to for her. She invites him to help her with her Aunt Millie’s house and they make some discoveries about her. Beautiful story that has Julia working through her fears and healing, though those fears still rear their head at times. Set primarily in Pleasant Gap, this story also takes us to England for a bit, where we meet Henry’s family, and see Wes’s sister Cate as well. Things to ponder, things to laugh at and characters that are easy to relate to. This is another family I hope we get to see more of at some point.
When You Look at Me is a beautiful and tender romance. So well written and full of heart!
There are several reasons why I love this book. For starters, the characters’ introverted personalities made me feel an immediate kinship with them, while they form an immediate kinship with each other. A lot of times I see introverts paired with extroverts as the extrovert tries to draw out the introvert and “fix” them. I’m not too fond of that, though. While it never hurts to be pushed out of our comfort zone, God made us all different. Introverts have their place just like extroverts, and I think we should all be appreciated for who we are. So I could completely understand why Henry is fascinated with Julia. She understands his people limit, understands that he sometimes needs a moment to switch from his internal thoughts before entering a conversation. And she accepts that he’s a bit awkward.
I have to say, I liked this book a lot better than Just the Way You Are. Normally, a sequel rarely lives up to the first book, but in this case, the sequel just made the series better.
(Check out my full review at https://justjenniferpurcell.com/2019/07/12/just-read-just-the-way-you-are-and-when-you-look-at-me-by-pepper-basham/)
Pepper Basham knows how to charm her readers with her unique, descriptive prose and her special way of bringing her characters to life. When You Look at Me features a couple of musical introverts who hesitantly connect through their love of music. Julia and Henry aren’t looking for romance, but they find themselves thrown together when Julia’s future brother-in-law brings Henry to Pleasant Gap. As Julia and Henry work together to solve a mystery involving Julia’s great-aunt Millie, they find a sweet camaraderie. Henry is a charming, gentle, lovable hero and perfect for Julia. Their mutual love of music helps them overcome fear and find a future together. Be prepared to laugh out loud, dry a few tears, and fan yourself over the hero, Henry.
I love the following quotes from the book. “Bravery is stepping into your fears and finding the strength to keep walking.” “. . . sometimes God uses what we least expect to bring us what we need the most.” “. . . music shared with a friend is even sweeter.” “. . . God brings the most beautiful things out of the most difficult situations.”
This book can be read as a stand-alone, but it’s even better to read book one in the series, Just the Way You Are first, as some of the characters from the first one make appearances in this one.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
I don’t know if I’ve ever read a novel in which both the primary romantic characters are introverts but it definitely works in When You Look At Me. This was a story that yanked at my heartstrings but was at the same time so very positive and uplifting.
Although an assault had left Julia broken and wary of men, her mostly positive attitude, good humor, and reliance on the Lord made her a character I could love. And Henry, my goodness, was the perfect man for Julia! Although he too had a wounded spirit that left him determined to remain single, he recognized Julia’s needs and responded in such a gentle and protective manner. As an introvert myself, I could find myself just a bit jealous of Julia but I realize that men with the sensitivity of Henry are most likely a rare breed.
Aside from Julia and Henry, it was fun to catch up with Wes and Eisley from Just the Way You Are as well as other members of the Jenkins family. The plot moved along at a steady rate and taking me from laughing out loud to anger or sympathy for the way Julia and Henry had been treated. The mysterious addition of a family secret added even more interest to their story.
I loved When You Look at Me and can barely wait for another novel by Pepper Basham. I will definitely be checking out some of her earlier books asap.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by JustRead Publicity Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
This book is a pure delight to read, even a treasure I will read over & over again! It begins with a hilarious first encounter; then has humor injected in just the right spots; weaves various truths and wisdom throughout the story; brings the beautiful Appalachia vividly to the reader; and uses elegance and a rich choice of words that enhance the story, reverberate, and capture the reader, making Pepper Basham one of my favorite authors. I loved the choice of musical terms that added to the tension and raw emotions that needed to be expressed and released. I could share so many quotes, but here a few favorites:
“How would she have ever made it to this point without believing God took brokenness and transformed it into something beautiful? Even this.”
And: “God’s view is limitless, vast and beautiful, even if pain stains our view and fear falters our steps.”
And: “It’s the ones with the bruises and scars that have the most amazing potential for greatness. God wouldn’t use them as examples throughout history if it weren’t true.”
And: “When seen through the lens of the right decision, God’s fingerprints appeared everywhere.”
And this is barely a fraction of my favorites. Expertly and sweetly written! Highly, HIGHLY recommended read!
Pepper Basham continues to be my go-to for amazing Christian romance! Every story she crafts is unique and has this perfect blend of charm, romance, hilarity, faith, and heart-tugging emotions. Julia and Henry’s story captivated me from the first page. After that I was a goner. If a book has me looking forward to waiting in the car line, then you know it’s a winner.
You absolutely must get yourself a copy of this captivating story! So much emotion and engaging dialogue! Moments of sheer bliss and laughter. Moments of deep and poignant conversations, and of course the swoon-worthy kisses! I easily fell in love with these characters. I didn’t simply read this story, I experienced it.
Pepper Basham words paint beautiful, panoramic vistas. I felt like I could not only see the Blue Ridge Mountains but hear the sounds and smell the fresh air. I was able to travel back home to where I grew up, right in the pages of this story.
I enjoyed the mystery and uncovering the secrets from WWII that were discovered as Henry and Julia, our amateur sleuths pack up Aunt Millie’s house. What a treasure trove and an exciting discovery!
With lyrical elegance, this tender story of love is sure to weave its romantic melody around your heart and replay through your mind like an enchanting memory. Without a doubt, this story has earned every star imaginable and deserves a spot on your keeper shelf!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
This is an emotional story told through the glimpses, glances, and gazes that the main characters, Julia, (a wounded mother-to be), and Henry, (an introverted musician) share throughout the story. Henry struggles to communicate, but finds Julia’s empathy and kindness pulling out the words he desires to speak. Henry’s gentleness and respect calms Julia’s fears and insecurities. Weave in the beautiful harmony of two hearts that connect and yearning for the love of a lifetime; spin in a crazy, loud, Appalachian family and their antics; knit in the sweet mystery surrounding Julia’s reclusive aunt; and you have a captivating story that sweeps the reader up in a crescendo of inspiring romance that closes with promising hope, but leaves you longing for more in this series.