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Generations of Hope #1
Finding Hope
She wanted independence. Then life took an unexpected turn. Can Olivia find hope in the midst of her darkest hour? When Olivia Martinelli, a naive nineteen-year-old, moved out on her own, she never could have imagined what direction her life would take. A life-changing decision, a betrayal of trust, and a painful consequence leave her devastated. Will Olivia find the strength she needs for the journey ahead?
188 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2015
60 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Diaz
12 books38 followersElizabeth Diaz, author, blogger and homeschooling mama, grew up in a small Michigan town. Her hope is that through her writing others discover that no one is beyond the boundless reach of God’s grace. When she’s not writing she enjoys spending time outdoors with her smoking hot husband and three crazy kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 13, 2015
I do not consider myself a religious person. I don’t attend church. I have never read the bible. I don’t know how to pray. I am not one who would normally sign up to read a “Christian” anything and I’m not sure how I did, but – to the shock and awe of even my husband – I truly enjoyed this book.
I immediately related to Olivia and her relationship with her mother. Been there. Done that. Still doing it.
I want to say the story line was predictable because in someone ways it was and you knew that “that thing” was going to happen, but it all still came as such a shock when it did.
I found myself smiling. I found myself crying. I found myself wishing I had a supportive group of friends that Olivia found herself with. I founds myself wishing we could continue to follow their story and that the book didn’t end.
I will admit, there is a lot of “pray with me”, “let’s pray”, etc. that isn’t my thing and a lot of “God this” and “God that” but if you could look past the actual religious aspect and see the characters of these people. They were amazing. Non judgmental. Friendly. Caring. Loving. Supportive. They were everything a person needs and should be.
If you consider yourself Christian, I truly believe you will enjoy Finding Hope. If you do not align yourself with Christianity, but have an open mind and can over look the praying and the God parts, I am sure you will enjoy it.
I immediately related to Olivia and her relationship with her mother. Been there. Done that. Still doing it.
I want to say the story line was predictable because in someone ways it was and you knew that “that thing” was going to happen, but it all still came as such a shock when it did.
I found myself smiling. I found myself crying. I found myself wishing I had a supportive group of friends that Olivia found herself with. I founds myself wishing we could continue to follow their story and that the book didn’t end.
I will admit, there is a lot of “pray with me”, “let’s pray”, etc. that isn’t my thing and a lot of “God this” and “God that” but if you could look past the actual religious aspect and see the characters of these people. They were amazing. Non judgmental. Friendly. Caring. Loving. Supportive. They were everything a person needs and should be.
If you consider yourself Christian, I truly believe you will enjoy Finding Hope. If you do not align yourself with Christianity, but have an open mind and can over look the praying and the God parts, I am sure you will enjoy it.
October 27, 2018
Great book on letting God take over!
Amazing book! Loved how it took me through Olivia’s journey of redemption and learning to trust and rely on God through all the struggles of life!
Amazing book! Loved how it took me through Olivia’s journey of redemption and learning to trust and rely on God through all the struggles of life!
September 9, 2017
Beautifully written
This is a great book about love and forgiveness redemption and God's amazing way to take a broken person Bring healing through difficult life situations
This is a great book about love and forgiveness redemption and God's amazing way to take a broken person Bring healing through difficult life situations
October 21, 2015
It is always good to read a Christian book, but I struggled with this one a little. Had a hard time getting into it, but as l did l enjoyed it. Olivia had a very unhappy childhood as l did so l could sympathize with her and understand her more than most people. She wanted to get out of the house and be on her own and had a hard time doing it and when she did she got started on the wrong foot. The guy was like so many and about destroyed her, but she meet someone who got her to a Bible study and didn't forget about her. She kept coming back and got the love and support she could not get from her parents. When the study group found out her secret they did not judge her, they did as Christ did and ask us to do, to love be kind to and not judge. God is our only judge and we need to always remember that. She met a good friend that helped and supported her through the tuff times, both in the beginning and later but gave her space when she needed it. Through all of this she met Brad, who was a good friend to her even though she was scared and cautious. He won her over and became a very important part of her life. He was there through the good times and the bad times and boy were there bad times! I was got this book to read in exchange for an honest review which is what l have given. This is my kind of book. I know you will enjoy it if you will just give it a chance, you will be glad you did. For Elizabeth Diaz's first book is a hit. Looking forward to reading the next book.
October 18, 2015
There is hope after all
Finding Hope will ripped your heart apart. I lost the counts I cried. This book is so emotional. Olivia has been through a lot. I cannot imagine this girl's suffering. She needs to learn how to cope up with her problems from parents who are not supporting especially her Mom. Getting pregnant, dumped and found out his boyfriend is a married guy.
There is hope after all for Olivia. I am not a Christian and am not religious either. I do believe in GOD. I LOVED to pray as well. Prayers really works and answered as well. It has been awhile since I read the Bible. Though I found Bible study with friends really helps any burdens you have by sharing and by their advises. I am so glad that Brad comes in Olivia's life. This guy is a gem. I wish there are more guys like him.
Losing a child is not easy. Coping up is difficult and how to move on. Olivia is lucky to have friends and families that are there to support and just being there for her.
Finding Hope deals with kinda real story am sure that one or another encounter the same problem with Olivia. Ms. Elizabeth Diaz did an amazing job on her first book. I cannot wait to read her second book.
Finding Hope will ripped your heart apart. I lost the counts I cried. This book is so emotional. Olivia has been through a lot. I cannot imagine this girl's suffering. She needs to learn how to cope up with her problems from parents who are not supporting especially her Mom. Getting pregnant, dumped and found out his boyfriend is a married guy.
There is hope after all for Olivia. I am not a Christian and am not religious either. I do believe in GOD. I LOVED to pray as well. Prayers really works and answered as well. It has been awhile since I read the Bible. Though I found Bible study with friends really helps any burdens you have by sharing and by their advises. I am so glad that Brad comes in Olivia's life. This guy is a gem. I wish there are more guys like him.
Losing a child is not easy. Coping up is difficult and how to move on. Olivia is lucky to have friends and families that are there to support and just being there for her.
Finding Hope deals with kinda real story am sure that one or another encounter the same problem with Olivia. Ms. Elizabeth Diaz did an amazing job on her first book. I cannot wait to read her second book.
March 26, 2015
As I read, I struggled to hear the author's voice in the story. To me, the storyline was well planned and well organized but lacked tension. I felt that if there had been deeper dialogue between the characters it would have helped drive the storyline and would have developed a heart connection for me.
Points that I enjoyed were the gentle way that the small group, Lisa in particular, welcomed Olivia into their midst. They didn't pass judgement, but loved her with kind words and acts of service. They were a beautiful example of how we can love people to Christ. When Nonna didn't like Jake I knew things wouldn't bode well for him! Grandma's have such a sense about matters of the heart. Brad's character and integrity were admirable while he waited for Olivia to be ready for a relationship.
**I was given a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have given. It's never my intention to wound an author with my words, so I hope that my review has been constructive.
Points that I enjoyed were the gentle way that the small group, Lisa in particular, welcomed Olivia into their midst. They didn't pass judgement, but loved her with kind words and acts of service. They were a beautiful example of how we can love people to Christ. When Nonna didn't like Jake I knew things wouldn't bode well for him! Grandma's have such a sense about matters of the heart. Brad's character and integrity were admirable while he waited for Olivia to be ready for a relationship.
**I was given a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have given. It's never my intention to wound an author with my words, so I hope that my review has been constructive.
April 9, 2015
Wonderful story of faith and forgiveness!!
Olivia is a young girl who is struggling with her very overbearing, combative mother. She finally moves out of the house and gets a place very her best friend without telling her parents. Olivia is faced with many obstacles and has turned away from God. She becomes friends with another girl who invites her to Bible Study and starts meeting other people who are followers of Christ. Will she start to follow Christ again, will she ever be able to forgive her mother? There are many different events in Olivia's live throughout this book that keeps the readers interest and makes the book very enjoyable.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series. I definitely would recommend this book to both young adults and older. I got an advanced copy from the author in exchange for my true and honest review.
Olivia is a young girl who is struggling with her very overbearing, combative mother. She finally moves out of the house and gets a place very her best friend without telling her parents. Olivia is faced with many obstacles and has turned away from God. She becomes friends with another girl who invites her to Bible Study and starts meeting other people who are followers of Christ. Will she start to follow Christ again, will she ever be able to forgive her mother? There are many different events in Olivia's live throughout this book that keeps the readers interest and makes the book very enjoyable.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series. I definitely would recommend this book to both young adults and older. I got an advanced copy from the author in exchange for my true and honest review.
October 19, 2015
I don't often find myself saying that I'm the "sentimental" type but within a short time into this book, I was full of tears (happy and sad) as well as an overwhelming set of emotions. It made me think back to when I was a young, 19 year old setting out on my own. Everything from her relationship with her mother to her life struggles as a Christian, I felt each and every pain and victory. I love that Elizabeth doesn't make Olivia out as a 'perfect' Christian - she makes poor choices and has to learn to make the best of the consequences. It is what being a Christian is all about! I recommend that all young women (Christian or not) read this book before they become of age and set out on their own! Very uplifting, inspirational and it makes you think!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
October 9, 2015
This is definitely not the genre of book I prefer. However, anyone who loves Christian themed books will absolutely love this one. I have to say that the actual story line was really good and I was able to read it rather quickly.
It is essentially about a young girl who leaves her parents home and moves in with a friend. She meets a man at work and falls head over heels--of course this guy wasn't exactly prince charming! He leaves her high and dry and heartbroken. She meets a group of people through a church Bible study group and becomes involved with them. Tragedy has not let up in her life even after she marries the man of her dreams. It is faith and prayer that gets her through.
Finding Hope
It is essentially about a young girl who leaves her parents home and moves in with a friend. She meets a man at work and falls head over heels--of course this guy wasn't exactly prince charming! He leaves her high and dry and heartbroken. She meets a group of people through a church Bible study group and becomes involved with them. Tragedy has not let up in her life even after she marries the man of her dreams. It is faith and prayer that gets her through.
Finding Hope
October 5, 2015
I thought this book was absolutely fantastic. It's an amazing Christian Fiction story about a girl growing up and making a life for herself. It also talks quite a bit about faith, hope, love and forgiveness.
I think the pace of this book is slow, which isn't a bad thing. I was able to read thoroughly through the book and didn't have to go back through it to reread parts of it.
When we make mistakes in our lives, the Lord will forgive us if we only ask. The author made the characters seem very real, I thought. And just like us, they made mistakes, because there is not one single person out there who is perfect and mistake free! Another HUGE plus for me in this book, never ONCE did it mention Abortion. I am firmly against that, and that fact just made me happy.
I think the pace of this book is slow, which isn't a bad thing. I was able to read thoroughly through the book and didn't have to go back through it to reread parts of it.
When we make mistakes in our lives, the Lord will forgive us if we only ask. The author made the characters seem very real, I thought. And just like us, they made mistakes, because there is not one single person out there who is perfect and mistake free! Another HUGE plus for me in this book, never ONCE did it mention Abortion. I am firmly against that, and that fact just made me happy.
October 14, 2015
I love it when a book has faith, love, forgiveness and hope! This book has all of those. In this story we meet Olivia who has come of age and is making a life for herself. To be honest this is not a fast read, the book actually goes kind of slow. While normally I don’t like books like that, for this book it was perfect! I really enjoyed how realistic the characters are. At times I forgot this book was fiction. This book reiterates that no one is perfect, as humans we all make mistakes and that when we ask for forgiveness our heavenly father forgives us unconditionally. This was an amazing book, one that I would definitely recommend. I did receive this product discounted or free of charge in exchange for a review, however all opinions are 100% honest based on my own experience.
February 17, 2015
I loved this book. It is a beautiful story of how a young woman can make bad choices and yet through God's mercy and love she can find forgiveness and redemption. The author does a wonderful job of pulling the reader into the lives of the characters and the emotions they feel. I was given an e-book copy of this book in return for an honest review, and I definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys good Christian fiction that tackles some of the tough issues of life and yet paints such a beautiful picture of the hope we have through Christ. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 17, 2015
This is the best fiction story I have read that shows one Jesus and His church and how they function as a unit. I hurt for Olivia as she was taken advantage of and suffered the consequences. I loved how God used this as His vehicle to bring her to Him. To see how the church then treated her as Christ would made my heart soar. But in the end, life was real life in our fallen world. Still forgiven, but broken. Oh how I highly recommend this book to one and all. What an example to the church as to how we should treat ONE AND ALL. Forgiveness and repentence, a turn around, and blessed salvation. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair review.
October 1, 2015
This is a wonderful Christian fiction story, about a young girl coming of age and making a life for herself. It is also a story of faith and forgiveness.
There are many different circumstances in Olivia's life which keep the reader engaged and interested, waiting to see how it will turn out for her. She has relationships that are beneficial, and some that really aren't, and we see her work her way through those decisions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can hardly wait for the next one in the series.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
There are many different circumstances in Olivia's life which keep the reader engaged and interested, waiting to see how it will turn out for her. She has relationships that are beneficial, and some that really aren't, and we see her work her way through those decisions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can hardly wait for the next one in the series.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
October 5, 2015
In the beginning I thought this book started off kind of slow and boring but I can say with a joyful heart that it is worth reading until the end. Finding Hope did something that no other book I have ever read has done and that is make me cry. I have read many emotional books but I have never cried while reading. I’m sure it’s because I felt a personal connection to what Olivia was going through.I highly recommend this book to anyone that is either comfortable or curious about Christianity. I also recommend this book to anyone that is having or has had a life changing event and just needs that reminder that you are not alone. I really enjoyed it.
December 1, 2015
I haven't read many Christian novels so I have nothing in that genre to compare this to...that said, I liked the Christian themes of forgiveness and acceptance and prayer. I loved how the Bible group accepted Olivia and became her family when she needed them; I have had similar experiences with members of my own faith and believe that one of the greatest blessings we can give each other is to love, accept and help as needed. Their friendship literally changed her life.
After reading a few books lately that had words and details I cannot stand reading, it was refreshing to read a clean, wholesome book about people who value morals and virtue (Brad!)
After reading a few books lately that had words and details I cannot stand reading, it was refreshing to read a clean, wholesome book about people who value morals and virtue (Brad!)
October 21, 2015
This is definitely a quick read. I actually wish it would have been a little bit longer. Some of the story lines and characters could have been built on a bit more. However, I definitely enjoyed that the book is somewhat atypical of Christian fiction: the main character in the book does not start out as a Christian and we take the journey with her through her mistakes and then see her redemption as the story continues. I know that this is book 1 in a series and I am curious to see if the author continues with these characters or introduces new ones. This is definitely a great story of hope and trusting in God through hard circumstances.
April 26, 2015
I received this book as a first read. The pace is slow. It's a nice piece of Christian fiction that tackles the tedium and trials that exist in relationship as well as losing and finding faith. The pastor and bible study group play large roles which will appeal to the Christian audience. The book isn't overly syrupy and takes on topics like Jesus Freaks, hypocrites, and those who make mistakes and try to atone for them. The book isn't for everyone but would be a good pick for a bible study book club read.
October 8, 2015
This book was a fantastic read and very well written.
I also really enjoyed the fact it set in the late 70's where things were a lot different 'back then.'
There are a few twist and turns in this book, which makes it an automatic 'page turner' Just when you think Olivia can finally settle down something bad happens.
This book had me in tears at one point, but I won't tell you why, that will spoil the story. This book will truly inspire you to keep going, even when everything seems hopeless.
Note // I received this book free of charge for the purpose of the review.
I also really enjoyed the fact it set in the late 70's where things were a lot different 'back then.'
There are a few twist and turns in this book, which makes it an automatic 'page turner' Just when you think Olivia can finally settle down something bad happens.
This book had me in tears at one point, but I won't tell you why, that will spoil the story. This book will truly inspire you to keep going, even when everything seems hopeless.
Note // I received this book free of charge for the purpose of the review.
October 9, 2015
Although this started a little slow for me, the second time I picked it up, I had to stay up late to finish it, I was hooked with the characters and did not want to put it down till I was done! Elizabeth shares a lovely coming of age story about a young woman, starting out on her own, excited, yet apprehensive, she makes a few mistakes along the way and realizes a few hard truths.
Elizabeth has a nice writing style that will pull you in with a few surprises. I am excited for the sequel.
I received this book as part of a book tour for review purposes only.
Elizabeth has a nice writing style that will pull you in with a few surprises. I am excited for the sequel.
I received this book as part of a book tour for review purposes only.
October 14, 2015
Wonderful book. It was very well written, very touching. Maybe the best I've ever read I like the way she told about how she felt as she went thru everything. The emptiness then the happiness onto grief and starting to find happiness again. Very good book
I liked how she put her feelings into words. From loneliness to being happy, then on to being completely lost and then to beginning to find happiness again
I liked how she put her feelings into words. From loneliness to being happy, then on to being completely lost and then to beginning to find happiness again
February 14, 2015
This Christian romance is a story of life. I like the fact that abortion was not even mentioned. The author did a great job describing the emotions for each situation. It is very indepth. God is a God of forgiveness and walks with you through all circumstances always. I was given a copy for an honest review.
October 11, 2015
Finding Hope was a good read. I enjoyed it and was glad to see the inspiration in it. I do think the book had a little bit too much going on at once and did find myself getting a tad bit lost at times. It was a book I enjoyed I just feel like it was too melodramatic. I love how it ended and am looking forward to more Elizabeth Diaz books.
October 11, 2015
Great story of love and faith
This was a wonderful story of love and faith. I enjoyed the characters very much but didn't like the three unanswered questions I had. Why didn't Olivia speak with ms. Elva after her baby died? What happened to make Mama so hardened? And did brad adopt Joy?
This was a wonderful story of love and faith. I enjoyed the characters very much but didn't like the three unanswered questions I had. Why didn't Olivia speak with ms. Elva after her baby died? What happened to make Mama so hardened? And did brad adopt Joy?
October 12, 2015
You are of value
So many times we determine our personal value by thinking we have to be perfect. This story reminds y that you are of value and truly loved, however, being with people who are supportive and caring sure make it easier to realize this. I feel this is a wonderful plus not so predictable as many are. Truly enjoyed this book.
So many times we determine our personal value by thinking we have to be perfect. This story reminds y that you are of value and truly loved, however, being with people who are supportive and caring sure make it easier to realize this. I feel this is a wonderful plus not so predictable as many are. Truly enjoyed this book.
January 2, 2016
Well written story of how real people do have pasts and yet God can heal them with His forgiveness and give them a wonderful life. Even after getting that 'wonderful life' things happen...struggles...LIFE and yet God can sustain. A wonderful picture of God's love for us and how true love can be in ones life that commits to Him.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 9, 2016
God precious love carries us through our darkest hours.
Olivia, Brad, Lisa and Ben each blessed my soul throughout their spiritual journey. Gonna and the Parks fulfils the scripture that says love covers a multitude of sins. Finally how the love of God abounds through those who submit to His word and in doing so is able to reach the skeptical.
Olivia, Brad, Lisa and Ben each blessed my soul throughout their spiritual journey. Gonna and the Parks fulfils the scripture that says love covers a multitude of sins. Finally how the love of God abounds through those who submit to His word and in doing so is able to reach the skeptical.
December 15, 2015
Finding Hope
This book ends up being a tear jerker. Olivia's poor choices at the beginning of the story are used to bring her to God. I cried throughout the end of the story as tragedy strikes.
This book ends up being a tear jerker. Olivia's poor choices at the beginning of the story are used to bring her to God. I cried throughout the end of the story as tragedy strikes.
March 6, 2015
I enjoyed reading this book. The author shows we are human and we will make mistakes. We are also loved by God and He will forgive us if we ask. He also goes through the hard times with us.
March 11, 2015
Highly recommended! Be prepared for this great journey through God's divine plan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews