Rebekah MilletReseñas

I didn't really love this book. It wasn't necessarily what I thought it would be, and had content that other people may have thought funny, but made me cringe.
I did love the cover though, and thought it was beautifully done.

I recieved a complimentary copy of this book to review from Bethany House Publishers through Netgalley and was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.

Lightning Strikes Twice?

Julia, has just turned forty, she is a widow and a single mom with two boys in college. She is shocked when, out of the blue, Samuel shows up at her church.

She hasn't seen him for over twenty years; that is when he broke her heart. Later, she met Mark, got married, and they had their two sons. They lived the life Julia had always wanted until it was cut short by a car accident.

Now, Samual wants back in her life. Before, he was untrustworthy, moody, and full of secrets. He is the last person Julia wants to see. But he claims he has changed, met the Lord, and has always loved her. All those years ago, when Samuel broke up with her, it almost killed Julia, and for a while, she wished it literally had.

As she told her friend, Samuel was not her first love, he was her worst love. Julia doesn't dare open herself up for that kind of pain again.

This story keeps you wondering if things can possibly work out for these two. Her mom, and his dad, are both terrible curmudgeons that add humor to the tale. Julia lives in New Orleans, and there are some descriptions of that unique city.

The faith of both Julia and Samuel plays a big part in this book. Although this is a clean story, adult subject matters are discussed. Julia faces things that would be issues in real life. This five-star book would be enjoyed by fans of romances, and well-written tales.

Thank you, Bethany House, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.

What a fabulous debut from Rebekah Millet. One of my favorite tropes of old flame to new flame with a few obstacles to overcome.
This story was cute, quirky, witty, swoony and also taught spiritual truths.
The author has written her characters with depth and authenticity. Two of the cantankerous varsity were Samuel’s dad, Teddy and Julia’s mom, Anne. “Standing next to the dining room table, Mama stared him down. Clad in all pink and yellow, she looked like a ticked-off Easter egg.”
The storyline has a realistic world view of consequences of sin and coping with the aftermath. Julia had to work through a boatload of guilt and on toward forgiveness. Samuel had to prove to her that he was a changed man. Not only was Julia faced with the possibility of dating Samuel again, she had to balance her work life, motherhood, and her ministry to help the elderly. She needed to focus on what God wanted her to do.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read with a laugh on almost every page. This author will go far.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Review Team. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

Julia Monroe Begins Again is the debut novel of Rebekah Millet, and she completely swept me off of my feet with this story! From page one, I connected with Julia and her predicament of turning forty years old. She is such a kind, generous, witty, and faithful woman, I immediately decided she would be my book best friend. Julia, as well as all the other characters, are so realistic–both in their strengths and their flaws–that they are impossible not to fall in love with each and everyone, even Julia’s mother.
Prepare to snicker, belly laugh, cry, and swoon as you read this second-chance romance. It is an incredible story of learning forgiveness, moving forward, and listening to that still small voice. I loved watching Julia step into a new era of her life, even when it wasn’t easy or pretty, because her growth stretched my heart and made me look at turning forty in a much more flattering light.
Overall, this is one of my favorite contemporary romances of the year. I would highly recommend this book to all Christian contemporary romance lovers, especially those who enjoy books by Courtney Walsh or Becky Wade.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

What an amazing debut by Rebekah Millet! I loved the Southern, sassy, quirky Julia who’s a widow in her 40’s faced with the past and overcoming her fears when it comes to romance and business. It’s a unique read with a not-so-typical heroine. She’ll definitely cause you to feel a gamut of strong emotions which the writer does an excellent job eliciting, proving she’s someone to watch out for.

Julia Monroe lost her husband Mark 10 years ago. She truly loved him and had two sons with him who are now in their late teens and attending college. But before Mark, there was Samuel Reed. After more than 20 years, she spots him at her church and suddenly the pain, heartache, and betrayal she never forgot is pushed to the forefront. Samuel seems to have changed, but can she reconcile Samuel 2.0 with the Samuel from her past.

As she struggles with forgiveness, she also struggles with real fears and anxiety. She’s so afraid of loss, that she isn’t willing to give Samuel a chance or pursue a business opportunity for her homemade cleaning products. Enter her friend Kate. Everyone should have a friend like Kate who pushes Julia and helps her see what God has been trying to show her all along.

Samuel’s a former Green Beret who lost an eye. He’s gone through a lot in those 20 years he’s been away. He’s definitely matured and is infinitely patient. He recognizes the spark between him and Julia that’s still alive and well, but realizes he’s hurt her deeply. He doesn’t want to give up on her, but he might have to in order to respect her wishes.

It’s a heartfelt, funny, poignant, raw story of loss, second chances, romance, overcoming fears, and forgiveness. Told from Julia’s perspective, I found myself sometimes uncomfortable in her head. She’s opinionated, quick to judge, and flippantly funny. But, she’s also a caring mom, and someone who’s trying to do the right thing. For anyone who’s experienced miscarriages, loss of a spouse, or other deeply traumatic events, it’s easy to sympathize with Julia’s fears. I loved the way things finally resolved in the story. If you’re frustrated with Julia, give her a chance. She might just surprise you.

For an authentic Southern experience, I recommend listening to the audiobook version. The narrator does a great job capturing all the characters, especially Julia and really brings this story to life.

Highly recommend to Christian Women’s Fiction, Christian romcom, and Chick Lit fans. Looking forward to reading more books by this author. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook version. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4-4.5 stars

For every person who has wrestled with themselves over something in life, Julia Monroe Begins Again by Rebekah Millet will resonate with you.

Millet’s debut will charm readers as they meet Julia and her friends then her first love. Julia is such a real and relatable character. Yes, she sometimes comes across as much younger than her forty years, but don’t we all revert to our does he or doesn’t he teenage selves once in a while (and the debate doesn’t even have to be about a person for me!).

This book had me laughing out loud many times as well as commiserating with Julia or siding with Samuel. I loved all the characters in this book. Julia’s best friend and her sons and her mother. Samuel’s daughter and cantankerous father.

And if you are an audiobook listener, do not miss this one. The narrator did a terrific job bringing these characters to life with her voice.

You will forget that Julia Monroe Begins Again is so well written, you’ll forget that this is Millet’s debut.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

I love a good second-chance romance, and Julia Monroe Begins Again by Rebekah Millet did not disappoint. Despite twenty years apart, Julia and Samuel had unfinished business to deal with and a sizzling attraction to each other. Their unhappy history gave immediate tension to the story and a bit of an enemies-to-lovers vibe. I enjoyed the sassy banter and smart flirtation between these characters. As the animosity gave way to healing, I appreciated their relationship being different the second time around.

Julia Monroe Begins Again immersed me into Julia’s mind via first person point-of-view. Being of similar age to Julia, I often giggled at or nodded along with her thoughts and words. Her particular sense of humor made this novel truly funny to me.

Aside from the sparking romance and light-hearted jesting, Julia Monroe Begins Again held plenty of depth. A handful of the situations Julia and Samuel faced included: the death of a spouse, the challenges of single parenting, becoming an empty-nester, and longing for peace in one’s soul. As the title suggests, this is the story of Julia stepping into a new season, making changes, and opening herself to hope after previous disappointment.

Julia Monroe Begins Again is a strong debut novel. The story held my attention throughout, gave me a book hangover because I didn’t put it down when it was time to sleep, and made me want to try a beignet. The romance, quirky side characters, and emotional depth in Julia Monroe Begins Again created a story that has a permanent home on my bookcase. 4.5 stars. I’m already looking forward to Millet’s next novel!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

I can’t remember the last time I read a novel where the heroine could almost be a mirror to myself, and Julia is in my figurative reflection. We are the same age, we both have two boys that are embarking on their adult life, and the uncertainty of our futures as empty nesters yawns wide. Reading Julia’s take had me wondering what’s in store for the next phase of my life while at the same time getting me excited about the possibilities.

Julia’s quick wit was what really won me over with this novel. Her inner dialogue is so relatable and the zingers she shares with those around her is also quite entertaining. The wit and humor on every page kept the story fun and light, and I appreciated the fact that it was told from Julie’s perspective alone. So many times in romcoms you get multiple narrators that can muddle the narrative but with Julia Monroe you get the ins and outs of her psyche and I was living for it!

I also enjoyed witnessing Samuel pursue Julia. There is something so charming about persistence, especially when it’s paired with charm and grace, and getting to see the will they/won’t they of their second chance relationship was pretty true to life. It’s hard to know if someone has really changed, and stepping out in faith as you learn to trust someone that has broken that trust is a hard concept, and reading Julia’s struggle was about as real as you can get.

There are moment in this novel that had me giggling to myself, and other parts that were so utterly magical that they took my breath away. This was such a good story that I fought to put down. This character-driven novel oozes charm and heart, and shows the magic that can happen when you let go and step out in faith.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

I was so excited to read this debut novel and of course it is even more fantastic than expected! The characters are written so well I had no trouble falling in love with Julia and Samuel and cheering for their happily ever after. I also loved how the characters had authentic trials and struggles that made them seem more real than fictional at times. The lively New Orleans backdrop was the perfect setting to their story and I had moments where I swear I could smell the beignets from the wonderful descriptions in the novel. The spiritual theme of trusting God’s and His plan was well integrated. I thought the writing was very well done and the story flowed effortlessly. It was easy to get engrossed in the novel as time passed quickly by. This book was such a joy to read and I loved every part of it. Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Julia Monroe Begins Again is the faith-centered story of a forty-year-old woman and mom of two grown boys who finds herself having to "begin again" after the death of her husband left her reeling for years. But she's reeling again after she sees Samuel Reed, the college sweetheart who crushed her heart, in church.

I found this to be an easy, satisfying read. I didn't think Julia always acted like the forty year old she's supposed to be, but I liked her story. It's heavy on the church going, which not all titles from this publisher are, so not everyone will find this to be their cup of tea, but for those of us that follow that kind of lifestyle, it's nice, and I'd recommend it.

Thanks so much to Bethany House for providing a copy of this book to review through NetGalley and LibraryThing.

It's a win for Rebekah Millet and her debut novel. Julia Monroe and her first person voice is honest, relatable, and funny. Her mama's heart is so tender and I was right there with her as she learned to adjust to being an empty nester. Though Julia is a bit younger than I am, her woes and delights were on point. There is great banter between Julia and Samuel and I really enjoyed their second chance and the themes of true forgiveness, living boldly, and leaving fear behind. The quirky supporting cast of Julia's and Samuel's family and friends made the story quite lively. It wasn't exactly a rom-com, though Julia's inner voice was funny in a self-deprecating way. It was more of a women's fiction with a good measure of romance and faith. I loved learning about New Orleans and the culture surrounding that great city. One day I will make it there to visit.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Julia Monroe is the mother of two boys who have graduated from high school and are starting college. 10 years ago, her husband passed away unexpectedly. Julia threw herself into her work and concentrated on her children. By doing this she was able to grow her cleaning business, develop her connection with God, and broaden every aspect of her church ministry, all the while focusing on her young boys. She was feeling great until she ran across her ex-Green Beret boyfriend (in church no less), she wasn't sure how resilient she would stay. It had been twenty years since he dumped her, and they hadn’t spoken to or seen each other since.

Julia is refusing Samuel Reed's attempts to mend their relationship now that he is back in his hometown. They still have issues with one another. Will they be able to put their differences behind them and forgive one another? Julia is not optimistic, but Samuel is.

I was rooting for the pair to get together since it was such an authentic connection. The author did a terrific job of illuminating for us that a small act of forgiveness can give us joy, freedom, and grace that can heal our soul and change everything.

I liked the topics it explored and the organic spiritual thread, I enjoyed the likeable and unlikeable characters, the touching moments, and the humor, which frequently made me smile and laugh aloud. I adored the characters, their situations, and how they evolved as this story unfolded.

This story makes for a great escape and one that would be wonderful for a book club pick. There is so much to discuss. I adored how this story was told, it’s a sweet romance about forgiveness, and second chances. I now count this author among my favorites. This was a wonderful debut novel. This author is one to watch.

Disclosure Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

Julia Monroe Begins Again is a delightful story that brings the flavours and senses of New Orleans to life. In this first person narrative, we catch a glimpse of a woman who has been through much, and continues to wrestle with much as her past and present worlds collide. Julia's internal monologue is hilariously captivating and draws readers into relatable life circumstances. It is refreshing that Julia and Samuel are older and that through the mistakes they've made, they have learnt to become stronger as a result. Julia's sons provide another glimpse into the person that she is, and a dose of realism into what being a single parent can be like. Julia's friend, Kate, is the type of supportive friend that we could all use, allowing Julia to flourish and come into being herself. Rebekah Millet shines in keeping readers engaged in rooting for her characters as she brilliantly captures the fears, doubts, and questions that can enter our minds. This redemption story points towards Christ, and showcases His healing power in the midst of tragedy. Samuel is a model of forgiveness, patience, and self-sacrifice, helping readers to see God's love exemplified through his character. There are a few gut-wrenching scenes in this book that the author empathetically works through, adding layers of depth to this story. Going through these emotions with the characters really brought this story home, especially around the themes of loss, grief, and disappointment. Julia Monroe Begins Again shows that all of us have the opportunity to begin again in life through God's help and comfort.

This is a quick, sweet book about a mom that has become an empty nester. Julia is widowed and sees her first love in front of her at church. This causes some extreme feelings for poor Julia. Her and Samual's breakup 20 years ago, left her heartbroken. And events that happened after that breakup left her hurting in ways that only few know about.

I loved that Samuel was so invested in making amends with Julia. I loved that he volunteered and made an effort to get on better terms with Julia's mother and to get to know her sons. They boys, Connor and Mason, paying to have a porch put on Julia's house was the perfect way to force Julia and Samuel together. She really got to see up close and personally how he had matured and became a man she could truly trust and rely on.

Julia's sons were wonderful young men. I loved how much faith they had in their mother. They pushed her to do her dream of starting a cleaning product. I also thought that Brooke, Samuel's daughter, was lovely. She grew up without her mom being fully present but Samuel and his family gave her all the love and support she needed.

I understood Julia' s hurt in finding out about Brooke's mom and I really liked the way it resolved itself. A nice sweet, clean romance that I would recommend to anyone.


Thank you to Bethany House, NetGalley and LibraryThing for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. year

I was gifted this book through LibraryThing and this review is freely given and my own opinions.

The book is a modern romance in the Christian genre. It is quite well written. Her powers of descriptive scenery are pretty well demonstrated. I've been to New Orleans so I could well visualize what she described.

The main characters were fairly well fleshed out. The story line was one where you know how it will end, you're just not sure how you will get to that ending.

The editing was not perfect but not distracting either.

If you want a pleasant, sometimes funny sometimes sad story, this is for you. I enjoyed this book and would recommend i.t to my friends. I give it a solid 4 out of 5-star review.

This was a very sweet Christian second-chance, forty-something romance. I liked the characters and the natural way their faith was part of their lives.