Turn to Me (Misty River Romance, A Book #3)

Becky Wade has delivered another beautiful story with the third book in the Misty River series, Turn to Me. It is a heart-tugging story of pain from loss, but also redemption and healing and what He can do with a life given to Him. One cannot help but love the gruff, almost-reformed bad boy, Luke and the tender-hearted, dog rescuer, Finley from the opening pages of the book. I was drawn into their relationship and turned pages as quickly as possible to get to their happy ending. I love that Finley first sees Luke as one of her “projects” and Luke tried to see Finley as only an obligation to a promise made to her father. The banter between the two main characters is delightful – funny, sarcastic, heart-breaking, and romantic – whatever fits the setting and circumstances of that part of the novel. The inclusion of an intriguing treasure hunt and cute puppies only added to my enjoyment of this book. Other characters from the first two novels appear and their stories are tied up as well. I am always amazed at Wade’s manner of crafting words into wonderful word pictures while telling a story, and she delivers in Turn to Me. Her romantic heart is evident as is her sense of humor. I highly recommend this latest novel by Becky Wade for readers of contemporary romance and Christian fiction. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions stated are my own.

Turn to Me is the third and final installment of Becky Wade’s Misty River Romance series. Having devoured the other books in the series, I was looking forward to getting to know the elusive and reclusive member of the Miracle Five, Luke Dempsey. He’s a dark, broody man–one who harbors heaps of guilt and shame. And yet, he makes a perfect hero–handsome, loyal, and fiercely protective. His bad-boy persona is merely a cover for his soft heart. In this opposites-attract story, Finley is the perfect person to get under Luke’s skin. Becky does a fabulous job (like usual) of having witty, meaningful, and genuine dialogue. I don’t know how many times I was asked to explain why I was giggling while looking at my phone. It wasn’t because of some cat video–it was the banter between Finley and Luke. I kept cheering on The Restoration of Luke so I could witness his dead-pan one-word responses to her flowery invitations of change. I was so glad Turn to Me also gave Ben another chance at love. I love Ben (who doesn’t?), but I will confess that my excitement in reading more of his story meant more time with his mom Cece. She. Is. The. Best. Painfully honest and bold in her extension of love to others, especially those who need it most. I’d love to sit at her dining room table one day! While the chemistry between Finley and Luke kept me smiling through most of the story, like most of Becky’s books, this story had some hard issues to work through. Guilt. Shame. Grief. Redemption. Goodness, the tears flowed as Luke fought hard against the truth. I hope we all have a Finley in our life who sees us the way our Creator does, loves us through the pain, and points us to the Truth. The inspirational arc of this book was so powerful and challenging, it made the story infinitely more meaningful outside its pages. Overall, Turn to Me was a fabulous story. Contemporary romance fans, like those of Courtney Walsh, will enjoy this novel (and the entire series!) I highly recommend this book to any Christian fiction fan. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I love Becky Wade’s books and Turn to Me has to be a new favorite! In this amazing conclusion to the Misty Rivers series, we finally get Luke’s story. A treasure hunt, mystery, suspense, sizzling romance, cute animals, and funny sarcastic dialogue all expertly woven in with messages of faith and forgiveness kept me eagerly turning those pages. Absolutely adored Luke! His Han Solo/pirate like bad boy persona with a heart of gold completely captured my heart. Of all the “Miracle Five” childhood survivors of the earthquake that struck on that fateful mission trip to South America, Luke suffered the most. Feeling guilt and blame for his brother’s death, Luke’s life spiraled out of control leading to a stint in prison. After eight years, he’s finally out and trying to adjust to a non-regimented life. He has one promise to fulfill and then he can leave Misty River and escape to his dream house in Montana. Finley Sutherland is a beautiful, sweet, positive ray of sunshine who believes in the rehabilitation of animals and people. She never thought she’d date again after losing the love of her life, until Luke Dempsey walks in the door of her animal shelter. She’s agreed to hire him straight out of prison to help with the shelter’s website and computer tech needs. Her father served prison time alongside Luke and his final wish was for Luke to help her find the treasure he hid and protect her from those seeking it. As the two hunt for clues and work side by side, it’s hard to ignore the palpable attraction. But will they give in to their feelings or will past heartache ruin their chances? I loved the romance between Finley and Luke! They are such polar opposites, yet they compliment each other so well. He’s the gruff, grumpy, sarcastic. little rain cloud to her positive, sunny, free spirit. Loved their sizzling kisses and heartfelt conversations. The sarcastic dialogue had me laughing out loud. I especially enjoyed Luke’s complaining over taking care of a troublesome little puppy. The puppy loves him and he secretly loves her back. The treasure hunt was fun and I was right there alongside Finley and Luke waiting to see where each clue would lead. The actual treasure was a complete surprise and the suspense really ratchets up when they finally figure out where and what it is. There’s also a side romance between Ben and Akira, an employee at the shelter, which added some lightheartedness to the story. After suffering disappointment in the second book, it was fun seeing Ben find love again. Akira is such a delightful character who tends to blurt out her feelings in the best way. If you love pirate like heroes with a secret tender heart, sweet yet sizzling romance, a little suspense, and beautiful messages of hope and forgiveness, you’ll love this book! Fans of the series will enjoy seeing the other ‘Miracle Five” survivors and catching up with them. If you haven’t read the series, don’t worry, it can definitely be read as a standalone. There’s enough backstory so new readers will enjoy the story. Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book. Highly recommend to those who love Christian fiction and romance. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review. 4 1/2 stars. Content: Recommend to a more mature audience. Brief discussions of intimacy, underage drinking/drug use, some violence/murder.