Pieces of Forever + Giveaway

RANDOM RETRO READ

The scars on her face are nothing to the scars on her heart. But can God help her find healing―and love?

Eight years ago, Ava and Joseph had the perfect future planned—he would go to veterinary school, she would embark on a career with an exclusive modeling agency, and they’d eventually get married and have three dogs and four children. Until a terrible accident changed everything. Unwilling to believe they could still have a future, she made Joseph promise to leave and live out their dreams without her.

Joseph has never broken a promise to Ava. Until now.

Because before he made that stupid promise to leave, they’d made each other another promise—one of forever. Now that he’s done with veterinary school, he’s determined to return to River Falls and show her that his promise still stands. That he loves her just the way she is.

But first he’ll have to find a way to crack the safe she’s erected around her heart.

Fortunately, he has help: in the form of three lovable dogs, a special group of sick kids, and more than a few slices of pie. But will it be enough to convince Ava that their forever is worth fighting for? Or will he be left picking up the pieces―alone?

My Review:

published in 2021

Now this is what Christian Fiction is all about! What an incredible, moving, uplifting and faith-affirming story! And that’s not to say there isn’t any angst…because there’s plenty of that, as you would expect with a second chance romance. But I’ve still come away from this read with a soaring heart and and the inner peace that comes from knowing that every one of us is worthy in the eyes of the Lord.

Really — I’m gobsmacked and flabbergasted that I haven’t read a Valerie M. Bodden book before. I’ve heard her name bandied about on social media and people have told me I should read one of her books and, here I am, way late to the party but so, so happy that I jumped in with the first book in her River Falls series.

And this romance!!! Emotionally toe-curling. The way Joseph pursues Ava. Constant. Steadfast. Giving her space but not giving up. He comes close a time or two, but only because he feels it would be in Ava’s best interest. But he’s not going to cut ties completely, even if that means only friendship is on the table. Of course, he hopes for so much more — like a chance to keep the promise he made all those years ago. Sooooo romantical!!!!!

And — eeeppp — he’s a veterinarian!!! Seriously, that has to be one of my top picks for a hero occupation! So, of course, there’s some puppy love here too which makes for some nice ice breakers when things get tense with Ava. And Joseph’s large, opinionated family keeps things interesting too. 🙂

I listened to the audio edition narrated by Amanda Stribling (yay Chirp sale!) She did an amazing job — so easy to listen to and I feel like she captured the essence of these characters. Highly recommend the audio book.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

ebook available to anyone, anywhere who has a .com (US) Kindle account

US — paperback or ebook — winner’s choice

Canada — paperback or ebook (via a gift card to Canadian Amazon) or audible (.ca)

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Pieces of Forever, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it’s easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 26, 2023

29 thoughts on “Pieces of Forever + Giveaway”

  1. I loved your review of this book. It took a while before I read a Valerie Bodden novel but once I did I read them all! I don’t think I could pick a favorite because they’re all so good and completely satisfying (and the romances are great:)

    Sandyavery at comcast dot net

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  2. Thank you for once again introducing me to an author I hadn’t heard of before. This author and the story sound like my cup of tea.

    norafindinghope at yahoo com

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  3. Valerie M. Bodden is a new to me author so I thank you for bringing her to my attention. I’m not following her on Facebook to keep up with her writings.

    “Pieces of Forever” sounds like an amazing book and one I know I would greatly enjoy reading. I mean after all – second chances (which I LOVE), a veterinarian AND dogs – what’s not to love! Love the idea of promises being kept – even if not right away. It’s now on my TBR list and I can’t wait for the opportunity to read it.

    Thank you for the chance to win a copy!
    2clowns at arkansas dot net

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  4. Lovely review! I’m late to the Valerie Bodden party, too! I haven’t been able to read in a week, but hubby’s doing super well & in between being nurse, chief cook & bottle washer, I feel I can finally concentrate enough to read. What an ordeal! And the company! More coming today. Don’t they realize I feel a book coming on? 😉

    dianalflowers at aol dot com

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    1. I’m excited to be able to introduce her to everyone. Makes me all kinds of bibliophile happy. So thankful that all is getting back to normal in your household. You continue to be in my prayers. As to the company…well, at least you know you are loved. 🙂 Though I’d definitely be in book withdrawal too. Good luck, Diane!

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      1. It should make you all sorts of happy! 😃 Yes, hubby is very loved & shocked alot of folks. Especially those who are super overweight. They said they could see it happening to them, but not Paul. lol Yes, I’m having book withdrawal shakes! Thank you so much for the prayers. ❤

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  10. I’ve never read anything by Valerie Bodden, but after reading your review of “Pieces of Forever”, it sounds like I should! This book sounds like an amazing story. I’ve added it to my TBR list, and I’m really looking forward to reading it!

    Alison Boss
    nj(dot)bossman(at)gmail(dot)com

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  11. I have not read a Valerie Bodden book either. Another great author to look for! I would enjoy reading Pieces of Forever.
    pbclark(at)netins(dot)net

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  14. I’m slowly reading through Valerie’s Hope Springs series now but also have this one on my pile ready to read. Hope you all enjoy her stories like I am.

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