Monday, December 19, 2022

About the Book

Book: Book, Chapter, & Vows

Author: Chautona Havig

Narrator: Christa DelSorbo

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release date: September, 2022

Falling in love with Benjamin wasn’t in the plan, but Mallory finds she’s all but lost her head and her heart after two and a half years of banter, memories, and now shared books.

But when her ex-fiance (does it count if it was just for a few hours?) shows up right in the middle of a writing project with Benjamin, the guy manages to ruin her happiness… again.

Benjamin has been keeping one tiny part of him back from Mallory–just the one thing that’ll repel her for good.

So when the ex-boyfriend-slash-fiance shows up, and things look serious again, he takes a giant step back and prays he can keep his heart intact in the process.

They’re clearly meant for each other. God obviously has a plan. So what’s it going to take for Mallory and Benjamin to work things out and get those vows made?

This Breakers Head novel is Chautona Havig’s final book in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to get your copy!

MY REVIEW

There is something about hearing a book red aloud that brings anticipation to me. I love how Christa transitions from one character to the next in a seamless way. She is able to bring excitement to the story as characters become more visible. I enjoyed this audio and continue to look forward to more from her.

This journey finds us discovering more about Mallory. I have always liked her character and now we are on a mission to see how her relationship with Benjamin will go. There is a real struggle within Mallory about her feelings and we can feel the turmoil within her. When an unexpected ex visits, Mallory starts to question her life. Did she do the right thing when she and Trevor didn’t work out? Why is he suddenly back in town?

Benjamin is trying so hard to let his relationship with Mallory blossom, but little things start getting in the way. Seeing Mallory kiss her ex doesn’t give him an ego boost and now he is wondering if there is more to what he saw. A rumor is floating around that Mallory is leaving. I liked how Benjamin didn’t over react and relied on God and prayed about the situation. I’m sure some of us would have reacted differently and confronted the situation. It is a good lesson to not believe gossip but allow God to handle the situation.

One thing that really stands out in this book is how we need to appreciate the little moments in our life. We become so focused on our jobs or whatever keeps our focus from the little blessings we have each day. Recognize the family and friends that support you and be thankful for the time you spend with them.

There is a certain ex that just won’t go away. Trevor keeps coming back to talk to Mallory but she wants nothing to do with him. Her frustration is causing her to be short tempered and maybe has put a little distance between her and Benjamin. I loved how the author illustrated the ups and downs of a relationship and how we can let our pride get in the way. We see the flaws the characters have and I found them relatable for many of us. Our stubbornness sometimes gets in the way and if we aren’t careful, we will miss what God has for us.

There is an emotional time in the story where we learn more about Uncle Bud and I was amazed at what was uncovered about his past. Doing the right thing can cause others to be hurt but in the end following God’s direction will always be enough. I think as Benjamin learns about Bud he starts to feel a little more comfortable sharing his secret with Mallory. It is a very profound moment because the author shows how telling the truth frees you from what has been holding you back.

I have enjoyed each book the author has contributed to this inspiring series. The way she is able to make her characters realistic helps readers connect with each one. Thank you for all the beautiful memories you have given me on this journey and the many lessons on faith, trust and unconditional love.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

About the Author

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours, and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

About the Narrator

Speaking Life into Story

Queen of the one-eyebrow quirk, Christa DelSorbo auditioned for the role of Tarzan’s mom and has the photos to prove she ended up as the only cast member in a literal cast. These days, they keep her stuck in a box with a ball on a stick and only feed her when she reads another chapter of another fabulous book. She loves every minute. Or so they tell her. *eyebrow slowly raises *