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A Spring of Weddings
A Proxy Wedding
Carly James values loyalty and friendship above all, so when her best friend calls asking her to be a proxy bride, she says, ‘yes.’ How hard can it be to say ‘I do’ so that her best friend can be with the one she loves? Only, Carly never counted on the feelings that began to swirl around with the proxy groom.
Damien Nichols likes life lined up from A to Z, but when his best friend calls in a favor, disorder begins to reign. Instead of taking a quick flight to the proxy wedding, he must take a road trip with the proxy bride. Carly’s free-spirit attitude bumps heads with his meticulous approach to life. As Damien discovers the woman underneath the carefree façade, his emotions become involved.
Will love become real at A Proxy Wedding?
Hope Beyond Savannah
Lily Allman and Nikotemo (Nik) Lagatuo were the poster children for the term “opposites attract.” He was an evangelist and CEO for a non-profit from Samoa who grew up in a large loving family. She was a blond bombshell with a funky style and no family to call her own. Two of the most unlikely people meet in the most unlikely of places, but God had a plan when He brought them together. They never let their differences deter them from the love they had for each other, but when Nik’s mother comes to the States for the wedding, the idea of wedded bliss is shaken. Can prejudices be over looked, insecurities overcome, and hope for a better future be restored so that these two can have all that was promised?
Carly James values loyalty and friendship above all, so when her best friend calls asking her to be a proxy bride, she says, ‘yes.’ How hard can it be to say ‘I do’ so that her best friend can be with the one she loves? Only, Carly never counted on the feelings that began to swirl around with the proxy groom.
Damien Nichols likes life lined up from A to Z, but when his best friend calls in a favor, disorder begins to reign. Instead of taking a quick flight to the proxy wedding, he must take a road trip with the proxy bride. Carly’s free-spirit attitude bumps heads with his meticulous approach to life. As Damien discovers the woman underneath the carefree façade, his emotions become involved.
Will love become real at A Proxy Wedding?
Hope Beyond Savannah
Lily Allman and Nikotemo (Nik) Lagatuo were the poster children for the term “opposites attract.” He was an evangelist and CEO for a non-profit from Samoa who grew up in a large loving family. She was a blond bombshell with a funky style and no family to call her own. Two of the most unlikely people meet in the most unlikely of places, but God had a plan when He brought them together. They never let their differences deter them from the love they had for each other, but when Nik’s mother comes to the States for the wedding, the idea of wedded bliss is shaken. Can prejudices be over looked, insecurities overcome, and hope for a better future be restored so that these two can have all that was promised?
157 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2017
20 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Toni Shiloh
56 books1,898 followersToni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and an award-winning Christian contemporary romance author. A native of Texas, she now lives in northern Virginia. Learn more at http://tonishiloh.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 25, 2017
A Proxy Wedding by Toni Shiloh-
I loved everything about this story. The characters were awesome. The road trip they went on was so fun, I especially loved all the great pins on Toni's Pinterest board for this book, it totally made me feel that I was taking the trip right alongside them! I have seen proxy weddings in books before, but it was always only party that had a proxy, not both. So the idea of a double proxy wedding was something I found fascinating! Toni did a fabulous job writing this story and I look forward to rereading it in the future! (5 Stars)
Hope Beyond Savannah by Melissa Wardwell-
I enjoyed this story. I loved both Nik and Lily, and it was neat (and made for a nice change of pace) to read a story where the characters are already engaged and planning their wedding at the very start of the story! I was fascinated by the details and history of Nik's culture, especially since it's a culture that I know very little about, I loved that those details were included! I related to Lily quite a bit. I couldn't believe some of the things that Nik's mom said and did to Lily! While I was glad that she ultimately did change her tune, it didn't really seem plausible to me how quickly she became nice, I realize that as this is a novella the word count was limited, but I found myself thinking that I wouldn't have trusted her when she made such a complete one eighty.
This is a really good novella that I enjoyed and will probably read again at some point. I also really liked Melissa Wardwell's writing style so I look forward to trying more of her work when I have time! (4 stars)
I loved everything about this story. The characters were awesome. The road trip they went on was so fun, I especially loved all the great pins on Toni's Pinterest board for this book, it totally made me feel that I was taking the trip right alongside them! I have seen proxy weddings in books before, but it was always only party that had a proxy, not both. So the idea of a double proxy wedding was something I found fascinating! Toni did a fabulous job writing this story and I look forward to rereading it in the future! (5 Stars)
Hope Beyond Savannah by Melissa Wardwell-
I enjoyed this story. I loved both Nik and Lily, and it was neat (and made for a nice change of pace) to read a story where the characters are already engaged and planning their wedding at the very start of the story! I was fascinated by the details and history of Nik's culture, especially since it's a culture that I know very little about, I loved that those details were included! I related to Lily quite a bit. I couldn't believe some of the things that Nik's mom said and did to Lily! While I was glad that she ultimately did change her tune, it didn't really seem plausible to me how quickly she became nice, I realize that as this is a novella the word count was limited, but I found myself thinking that I wouldn't have trusted her when she made such a complete one eighty.
This is a really good novella that I enjoyed and will probably read again at some point. I also really liked Melissa Wardwell's writing style so I look forward to trying more of her work when I have time! (4 stars)
April 27, 2017
"A Spring of Weddings" (Two Spring Wedding Novellas) by Toni Shiloh and Melissa Wardwell
What an enjoyable read. The two novellas were so very different, yet both were full of hope, love, and joy.
What more fun could I reader have than "watching" two friends stand-in as wedding proxies; or learning to appreciate and respect a culture that is so very different than yours, yet not all that different when it comes to ones faith, values, love, and the meaning of family.
Grab this one for a joyful, lighthearted and meaningful read. You certainly can't go wrong with this novel or with either of these authors.
Rating: 4.3 (combined)
*****************************
"A Proxy Wedding" by Toni Shiloh
What a wonderful premise for a novella. Having your best friend stand up as you (they would be your proxy) so that you can be legally married!! Except in this case, the proxy is for both the bride and groom...and has to take place in Montana.
I loved the two main characters: Carly and Damien. At first they seem like such opposites, but they come to realize that they have a great deal in common, enjoy one another's company, and have a way of bringing out the best in one another. They are fun, yet sometimes serious, individuals who have similar yet different backgrounds and have based many of their life choices on their past. What they learn in the drive from CA to Montana and back is that their life choices may have been made for some of the wrong reasons and trusting in God has no limitations.
What an enjoyable and engaging read. I loved the way the author used the characters to demonstrate certain aspects of faith (or lack of) in oneself and in God. She picked a great plot line that really hooked the reader right from the start, and two wonderful characters in Carly and Damien.
An absolutely fun, enjoyable, engaging, and wonderful novella.
Rating: 4.6
*****************************
"Hope Beyond Savannah" by Melissa Wardwell
Melissa Wardwell does something very different in her novella. She brings together a Samoan man and an English woman. Background wise each individual has grown up so very differently. Yet, despite all of the differences, Nik and Lily find what really matters to them most is being with the other.
Nik has lived a few different places in his life, while Lily has never left Savanah. He has grown up in a large and loving family while she entered foster care at age 10. So when Nik's family arrives a few weeks before the wedding she is looking forward to be able to finally seeing what being a part of one is really like. Except she is in for a big surprise...as is Nik.
I really enjoyed this novella for the relationship between Nik and Lily as it really demonstrates unconditional love. While the mother was very off-putting, she also taught a lesson to herself and to those around her that what you see is not always what is there. Unlike Nik, she is judgmental and forgets to put her son and his fiancée first, family first, and to release her negativity to God.
Lily also teaches a great lesson by being honest with herself but also doing so with Nik's mother and showing how, with confidence and love...and God's guidance, people and situations can change.
A great read and a wonderful blend of two cultures who have the same religious background. A more serious novella, of the two, it is enjoyable and full of so many messages: all from the heart.
Rating: 4.0
*****************************
What an enjoyable read. The two novellas were so very different, yet both were full of hope, love, and joy.
What more fun could I reader have than "watching" two friends stand-in as wedding proxies; or learning to appreciate and respect a culture that is so very different than yours, yet not all that different when it comes to ones faith, values, love, and the meaning of family.
Grab this one for a joyful, lighthearted and meaningful read. You certainly can't go wrong with this novel or with either of these authors.
Rating: 4.3 (combined)
*****************************
"A Proxy Wedding" by Toni Shiloh
What a wonderful premise for a novella. Having your best friend stand up as you (they would be your proxy) so that you can be legally married!! Except in this case, the proxy is for both the bride and groom...and has to take place in Montana.
I loved the two main characters: Carly and Damien. At first they seem like such opposites, but they come to realize that they have a great deal in common, enjoy one another's company, and have a way of bringing out the best in one another. They are fun, yet sometimes serious, individuals who have similar yet different backgrounds and have based many of their life choices on their past. What they learn in the drive from CA to Montana and back is that their life choices may have been made for some of the wrong reasons and trusting in God has no limitations.
What an enjoyable and engaging read. I loved the way the author used the characters to demonstrate certain aspects of faith (or lack of) in oneself and in God. She picked a great plot line that really hooked the reader right from the start, and two wonderful characters in Carly and Damien.
An absolutely fun, enjoyable, engaging, and wonderful novella.
Rating: 4.6
*****************************
"Hope Beyond Savannah" by Melissa Wardwell
Melissa Wardwell does something very different in her novella. She brings together a Samoan man and an English woman. Background wise each individual has grown up so very differently. Yet, despite all of the differences, Nik and Lily find what really matters to them most is being with the other.
Nik has lived a few different places in his life, while Lily has never left Savanah. He has grown up in a large and loving family while she entered foster care at age 10. So when Nik's family arrives a few weeks before the wedding she is looking forward to be able to finally seeing what being a part of one is really like. Except she is in for a big surprise...as is Nik.
I really enjoyed this novella for the relationship between Nik and Lily as it really demonstrates unconditional love. While the mother was very off-putting, she also taught a lesson to herself and to those around her that what you see is not always what is there. Unlike Nik, she is judgmental and forgets to put her son and his fiancée first, family first, and to release her negativity to God.
Lily also teaches a great lesson by being honest with herself but also doing so with Nik's mother and showing how, with confidence and love...and God's guidance, people and situations can change.
A great read and a wonderful blend of two cultures who have the same religious background. A more serious novella, of the two, it is enjoyable and full of so many messages: all from the heart.
Rating: 4.0
*****************************
April 24, 2017
A Spring of Weddings is collection of two stories about, as I’m sure you guessed, Spring weddings. I don’t normally like Romance books, but there were a few things that made this collection special.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
Category: Fiction (Contemporary Christian Romance)
The first story in this collection is “A Proxy Wedding” by Toni Shiloh. This was the first book of hers that I’ve read, though I like her blog. I have to say, the unique premise of this story caught my attention right from the start. I didn’t even know what proxy wedding was, let alone a double proxy wedding. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but there were definitely a few surprises in this cute, well planned tale.
“Hope Beyond Savannah” is the second part of the collection and was written by Melissa Wardwell. It was also my first time reading anything by this author. It was an interesting story, but in my opinion, things happened so fast without enough time for character development. Maybe it would have been better as a full length novel. I really appreciated the multicultural aspect of this story. I should also mention that if you don’t like to read about lots of kissing and physical affection, this isn’t the story for you. It felt like, “ugh, more kissing,” but as I mentioned before, I don’t really like romances. I still found the story interesting, though. And I felt for the main character, Lily. Poor thing!
Overall I would definitely recommend this book for a quick, entertaining read.
I was given a copy of this book by CelebrateLit Publishing in case I wanted to review it. All opinions are my own.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
Category: Fiction (Contemporary Christian Romance)
The first story in this collection is “A Proxy Wedding” by Toni Shiloh. This was the first book of hers that I’ve read, though I like her blog. I have to say, the unique premise of this story caught my attention right from the start. I didn’t even know what proxy wedding was, let alone a double proxy wedding. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but there were definitely a few surprises in this cute, well planned tale.
“Hope Beyond Savannah” is the second part of the collection and was written by Melissa Wardwell. It was also my first time reading anything by this author. It was an interesting story, but in my opinion, things happened so fast without enough time for character development. Maybe it would have been better as a full length novel. I really appreciated the multicultural aspect of this story. I should also mention that if you don’t like to read about lots of kissing and physical affection, this isn’t the story for you. It felt like, “ugh, more kissing,” but as I mentioned before, I don’t really like romances. I still found the story interesting, though. And I felt for the main character, Lily. Poor thing!
Overall I would definitely recommend this book for a quick, entertaining read.
I was given a copy of this book by CelebrateLit Publishing in case I wanted to review it. All opinions are my own.
April 25, 2017
These two stories couldn't be any sweeter! I loved them both equally, no need to choose a favorite. The overall theme in both was love conquers all. Not just our love for each other, but God's love as well. Both of these authors do a fantastic job in showcasing God's love and message in their stories which is why they are such a delight to read!
Let's start with A Proxy Wedding. First of all, I have never even heard about this so it was an interesting read! Is this real? That's what I was thinking the entire time I was reading. It sounds so weird, but such a fantastic way for these two people who could not be more opposite to come together. But I loved the way the author brought them together, and forged this unheard of relationship. Rather than their differences being a hindrance, they proved that sometimes differences can really be complimentary.
In Hope Beyond Savannah I was immediately drawn to the heritage of Nik. But the highlight of the story was when his tina (mother) came to town. I chuckled pretty much every time she was in a scene. She's like that mother-in-law that every bride dreads and I felt so bad for Lily. But I think the author did a fantastic job in writing Nik's reaction to every scene. It was the exact opposite of what I thought it might be (based on previous stories I have read with situations like this), and I found that extremely refreshing. Also, hats off to the author for the research in Nik's dual heritage. It was a delight to read!
I received a complimentary copy of his book from the publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Let's start with A Proxy Wedding. First of all, I have never even heard about this so it was an interesting read! Is this real? That's what I was thinking the entire time I was reading. It sounds so weird, but such a fantastic way for these two people who could not be more opposite to come together. But I loved the way the author brought them together, and forged this unheard of relationship. Rather than their differences being a hindrance, they proved that sometimes differences can really be complimentary.
In Hope Beyond Savannah I was immediately drawn to the heritage of Nik. But the highlight of the story was when his tina (mother) came to town. I chuckled pretty much every time she was in a scene. She's like that mother-in-law that every bride dreads and I felt so bad for Lily. But I think the author did a fantastic job in writing Nik's reaction to every scene. It was the exact opposite of what I thought it might be (based on previous stories I have read with situations like this), and I found that extremely refreshing. Also, hats off to the author for the research in Nik's dual heritage. It was a delight to read!
I received a complimentary copy of his book from the publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 22, 2017
My thoughts: A Proxy Wedding was the first book I've read by Toni Shiloh. It was a unique premise - I never read a story with a proxy wedding before. It was weird, but a very sweet romance as two strangers--complete opposites--were forced together for a week, even standing side by side as a judge pronounced them man and wife (in their friends' names, of course.) And what better than a wedding to make you think romance?
The black moment seemed a little off. Carly completely changed personality there. So did Damien for that matter.
All in all a sweet novella and I enjoyed reading it
Hope Beyond Savannah is also the first book I've read by Melissa Wardwell. This one a bit more difficult to read than Toni's, as I was in Lily's position where I was the girl my then boyfriend wanted to marry and his mom treated me every bit as badly as Nik's mother treated Lily. I do admire Nik for standing up for Lily.
This story was very well written, Ms. Wardell is a talented author and I loved the way she wove it together so seamlessly. And despite the rocky, depressing situation Nik and Lily found themselves in, it worked out beautifully.
"I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own." That done, A SPRING OF WEDDINGS contained two stories by two new-to-me authors. I enjoy reading contemporary romances, and these were sweet. They are both clearly Christian, but gentle with the faith message. If you like contemporary romances, you will want to read this collection.
May 7, 2017
Both of these were good, quick reads. Neither is a story you will want to stop and put down but rather sit down and read to the end! In a Proxy Wedding, we meet Damien and Carly. The two are both good at heart but opposites in personality. Though they are different, there are similar outlooks and I enjoyed seeing the attraction and personalities grow/change.
In Hope beyond Savannah, it is another opposites story but on a wider scale (in my opinion). Lilly and Nik are together and the issue they mainly have is his mother. The author does a good job with some tricky subjects and handles them with care. I hadn't considered the issues people still face in relationships like this but this author showed that this type thing still happens and how God is the one people answer to.
Both stories have faith woven through and I really enjoyed them. 4/5 for me.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book (via CelebrateLit). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
In Hope beyond Savannah, it is another opposites story but on a wider scale (in my opinion). Lilly and Nik are together and the issue they mainly have is his mother. The author does a good job with some tricky subjects and handles them with care. I hadn't considered the issues people still face in relationships like this but this author showed that this type thing still happens and how God is the one people answer to.
Both stories have faith woven through and I really enjoyed them. 4/5 for me.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book (via CelebrateLit). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
April 30, 2017
A Spring of Weddings is a delightful pairing of two contemporary romance novellas. “A Proxy Wedding” is the first Toni Shiloh book I’ve read, and I was not disappointed. The plot idea is clever – the best man and maid of honor must step in and get married on behalf of the bride and groom – and the characters are realistic and believable. Their cross-country adventure was fun, and I enjoyed riding along with Carly and Damien. “Hope Beyond Savannah” by Melissa Wardwell is an exploration of the challenges faced by a bi-racial couple. Well-researched, the story weaves information about the Samoan culture in an interesting and natural manner. I appreciated the research notes provided at the beginning. I found myself rooting for Lily and Nik as they dealt with wedding jitters, difficult family members, and their own insecurities. A very enjoyable story.
I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit Publishing, and a favorable review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit Publishing, and a favorable review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 28, 2017
I think this is the first thing I've ready by Shiloh. The first story is cute. It's a about a proxy wedding. That is something I already knew about, so I wasn't surprised at the premise. The story unfolded about like I thought it would, but it's still cute enough.
The second story was fun, and snuggly, and made me want to cuddle up with my sweetheart. It's full of romance. While very opposite of each other in all kinds of ways, the things that matter the most are united in this sweet story of Hope beyond Savannah. I've read more than one book by Wardwell, and this author's writing style is really growing on me.
These two enjoyable stories make for a fun, romantic read that will have you dreaming of spring weddings as well as God's love in a romance.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. I wasn't required to leave a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
The second story was fun, and snuggly, and made me want to cuddle up with my sweetheart. It's full of romance. While very opposite of each other in all kinds of ways, the things that matter the most are united in this sweet story of Hope beyond Savannah. I've read more than one book by Wardwell, and this author's writing style is really growing on me.
These two enjoyable stories make for a fun, romantic read that will have you dreaming of spring weddings as well as God's love in a romance.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. I wasn't required to leave a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2017
This was two sweet modern romances. I'm always a sucker for happily ever afters.
Toni Shiloh is a new to me writer. The plot was a fun twist and I really enjoyed the characters and the way the story unfolded. It was a predictable ending, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Then we come to story number two. Melissa Wardwell took me on a 160 turn around. I really enjoy her writing style but this one blew me away. From interesting facts and research about a different culture to two night and day characters this was a captivating read.
A very enjoyable book and a great spring read!
Toni Shiloh is a new to me writer. The plot was a fun twist and I really enjoyed the characters and the way the story unfolded. It was a predictable ending, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Then we come to story number two. Melissa Wardwell took me on a 160 turn around. I really enjoy her writing style but this one blew me away. From interesting facts and research about a different culture to two night and day characters this was a captivating read.
A very enjoyable book and a great spring read!
July 25, 2017
These two novellas were perfect to brighten my mood on a warm summer afternoon! If you need a quick read between heavier full-length novels, A Spring of Weddings is for you!
May 30, 2017
A spring of weddings has two stories in it by two different authors. Both stories are delightful and very enjoyable. They are both centered around a wedding. The first one is by Toni Shiloh and I read another book of hers awhile back and remember really liking it too (so I guess you could say I have become a fan of her books now). Hers is a Proxy Wedding. Can you imagine asking your best friend to take your place and stand in for you at your wedding ? That is exactly what happens here but with it comes some fun along the way for the two stand ins who have never met. Now the next story is by Melissa Wardwell and I don't recall having read any of her books yet. Hers is called Hope Beyond Savannah. This story involves a biracial couple and the difficulties that may arise when families have a hard time accepting someone different . This could be a hard topic but the story is really a sweet one. Would very much recommend A Spring of Weddings for a nice light read.
I received this book for free. No compensation was received and all opinions are my own
I received this book for free. No compensation was received and all opinions are my own
July 21, 2017
"A Proxy Wedding": I had never heard of a proxy wedding and found it to be an intriguing idea (I had to look it up) I liked Carly and Damien. They both grew through the story and learned to trust God more. It is a novella, so things move fairly quickly, but with the epilogue being a year later, it helps to "slow things down".
"Hope Beyond Savannah": This story was interesting in that the main characters were already a couple when the story started, so the story isn't a typical romance where we see them fall in love. The struggles come from the fact that Nik's mom is not very accepting of Lily. One thing that didn't seem realistic to me was Nik's mom mentioning that Lily would get fat as Samoans tend to be larger people and I don't think she would mind. But it was a minor bump. I liked watching Nik's tenderness with Lily and his love for her. Knowing someone from Samoa, it was fun to have a character from there. I enjoyed reading this story.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received.
"Hope Beyond Savannah": This story was interesting in that the main characters were already a couple when the story started, so the story isn't a typical romance where we see them fall in love. The struggles come from the fact that Nik's mom is not very accepting of Lily. One thing that didn't seem realistic to me was Nik's mom mentioning that Lily would get fat as Samoans tend to be larger people and I don't think she would mind. But it was a minor bump. I liked watching Nik's tenderness with Lily and his love for her. Knowing someone from Samoa, it was fun to have a character from there. I enjoyed reading this story.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received.
April 6, 2018
What a fun collection of novellas!
I have always enjoyed Toni Shiloh’s writing and the novella A Proxy Wedding in this collection is no exception. Even with the limitation on length, Toni Shiloh creates a believable and enjoyable premise and plot with two friends of prospective groom and bride participating in a proxy wedding. The characters Damien and Carly are multi-dimensional with past hurts that blockade possibility of a healthy relationship. Their conversation is real, their faith down-to-earth and touchable. The lessons of life and faith that both Damien and Carly learn are universal for all of us. I would love to see this novella developed into a full-length novel.
The novella Hope Beyond Savannah is the first from Melissa Wardell I have read. I enjoyed reading about the Samoan culture and language and how Nik and Lily meld their differences in culture, language, food, and background. Their love is based on their shared faith in God and their mutual respect and admiration for each other despite their differences. The writing is easy to read and the characters are lovable. The plot is well-developed though it’s a novella- length.
I thoroughly enjoyed both of the stories and look forward to reading more from both of the authors.
I was given a copy of this book from the authors via Celebrate Lit Tours. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
I have always enjoyed Toni Shiloh’s writing and the novella A Proxy Wedding in this collection is no exception. Even with the limitation on length, Toni Shiloh creates a believable and enjoyable premise and plot with two friends of prospective groom and bride participating in a proxy wedding. The characters Damien and Carly are multi-dimensional with past hurts that blockade possibility of a healthy relationship. Their conversation is real, their faith down-to-earth and touchable. The lessons of life and faith that both Damien and Carly learn are universal for all of us. I would love to see this novella developed into a full-length novel.
The novella Hope Beyond Savannah is the first from Melissa Wardell I have read. I enjoyed reading about the Samoan culture and language and how Nik and Lily meld their differences in culture, language, food, and background. Their love is based on their shared faith in God and their mutual respect and admiration for each other despite their differences. The writing is easy to read and the characters are lovable. The plot is well-developed though it’s a novella- length.
I thoroughly enjoyed both of the stories and look forward to reading more from both of the authors.
I was given a copy of this book from the authors via Celebrate Lit Tours. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
January 16, 2019
I honestly don’t think I could put better words to a review than Carrie from Reading is my Superpower already did! I loved reading Toni’s story especially. The whole wedding proxy idea is so thoroughly unique, and the chemistry between the pair as they trek to do this favor for their friends? Excellent.
August 23, 2017
I really like these authors writing style. They pull you into these characters lives so quickly. You hurt when they hurt and when the laugh you cannot help but laugh with them. Characters who are opposites always intrigue me. I wonder how the authors are going to make the readers believe their relationship will last. Carly James , Damien Nichols, Lily Allman and Nikotemo (Nik) Lagatuo are reminders that sometimes we need to let go of our plans for our lives and let God do his things. The strengths and weaknesses of each couple were balanced in a way that would make their relationship flourish.
March 28, 2020
I read the short story by Melissa Wardwell which is now a title outside of this book titled Hope Beyond the Shore. It is a lovely story of acceptance and forgiveness. The love shared between these two young people has to cross a few barriers, including family ties and race. I'm always curious about different cultures, and after reading this short story, I'm interested in learning more about the Samoan people. I look forward to reading more from Melissa.
May 5, 2017
A Spring Of Weddings has two delightful stories one by Toni Shiloh and one by Melissa Wardwell. They have similar themes but both are unique and wonderful warm reads that will speak to your heart.
A Proxy Wedding by Toni Shiloh was the most delightful contemporary Christian romance. Such a sweet story with characters that warmed my heart.
God was very much a focus. He could be seen in nature. Toni Shiloh's delightful descriptions gave me a 'view' of this landscape. Prayers to Him were very much a part of everyday life.
The novella dealt with the theme of past hurts. Anger at God for past situations featured. God can handle our anger. He wants us to be real with Him. And He wants a relationship with us.
Fear was another theme. "Why did he let fear dictate his life?" God wants to take our fears and transform our lives if we will only trust Him. He does not want us to carry burdens that we were never meant to. "You've got to be exhausted because you're doing a job that was never meant to be yours."
God is the God of second chances and new beginnings. Past mistakes need not be repeated. Our parents choices do not have to resurface in our lives. "Our parents choices do not determine our future." Trust God to give us new beginnings.
A Proxy Wedding was absolutely delightful. It warmed my heart and made the world seem a better place.
Hope Beyond Savannah by Melissa Wardwell is a charming Christian romance that really spoke to my soul. With its themes of love, family and belonging it was a really sweet story. The love just radiated from the pages.
The novella explored the difficulties faced by a mixed marriage ranging emotions from anger to disappointment made for a rocky road at times. Would love really conquer all?
God is love. We need Him in our lives. Including Him in our marriages will strengthen our union. Love is not just romantic love. Love is sacrificial. Love will do whatever love has to. In the difficult times sometimes the only thing we can do is pray... and trust God for the outcome.
Family is important. Our upbringing can affect us into adulthood. Our past does not have to be our future. We need to trust God and others with our lives.
The novella touches on the theme of childhood neglect resulting in foster homes and a search for love and a home.
Hope Beyond Savannah was both a hopeful and a delightful read. I immersed myself in it and let Melissa Wardwell's words wash over me like soothing balm.
Totally delightful pair of stories.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
A Proxy Wedding by Toni Shiloh was the most delightful contemporary Christian romance. Such a sweet story with characters that warmed my heart.
God was very much a focus. He could be seen in nature. Toni Shiloh's delightful descriptions gave me a 'view' of this landscape. Prayers to Him were very much a part of everyday life.
The novella dealt with the theme of past hurts. Anger at God for past situations featured. God can handle our anger. He wants us to be real with Him. And He wants a relationship with us.
Fear was another theme. "Why did he let fear dictate his life?" God wants to take our fears and transform our lives if we will only trust Him. He does not want us to carry burdens that we were never meant to. "You've got to be exhausted because you're doing a job that was never meant to be yours."
God is the God of second chances and new beginnings. Past mistakes need not be repeated. Our parents choices do not have to resurface in our lives. "Our parents choices do not determine our future." Trust God to give us new beginnings.
A Proxy Wedding was absolutely delightful. It warmed my heart and made the world seem a better place.
Hope Beyond Savannah by Melissa Wardwell is a charming Christian romance that really spoke to my soul. With its themes of love, family and belonging it was a really sweet story. The love just radiated from the pages.
The novella explored the difficulties faced by a mixed marriage ranging emotions from anger to disappointment made for a rocky road at times. Would love really conquer all?
God is love. We need Him in our lives. Including Him in our marriages will strengthen our union. Love is not just romantic love. Love is sacrificial. Love will do whatever love has to. In the difficult times sometimes the only thing we can do is pray... and trust God for the outcome.
Family is important. Our upbringing can affect us into adulthood. Our past does not have to be our future. We need to trust God and others with our lives.
The novella touches on the theme of childhood neglect resulting in foster homes and a search for love and a home.
Hope Beyond Savannah was both a hopeful and a delightful read. I immersed myself in it and let Melissa Wardwell's words wash over me like soothing balm.
Totally delightful pair of stories.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
May 11, 2017
A proxy wedding, and being able to read about a new culture to me, all in one book? As Damien put it ” Relationships are so confusing” and both these gals have written books that tackle real life moments, and give a beautiful faith boost to the confusing parts.
Toni’s story about the proxy wedding was truly fascinating. I spent a ton of time looking up a proxy wedding definition. Never the less, this book may tackle a subject unknown to some, but it is full of sweet love, tender moments that lead Damien and Carly to true wedding bells. One thing about Toni’s writing is that the reader is never lost, I feel like a I traveling a path of words designed just for me, to lead me to the perfect ending. I thought that it was unique to have a romance story built this way, and it certainly kept me hoping for love.
Toni is a modern day Christian romance author, truly, I am still reeling from the proxy wedding idea, I mean it’s crazy yet wonderful. It is a topic that can be tough to tackle, but like all her books Toni handled it with grace and faith. Trust me this is story that will grab your attention, then stick with you long after the end.
“Hope Beyond Savannah” is amazing! Okay, both stories are but Melissa introduces a culture that I have never read in a Christian fiction book before. It gave me tingles (in a great way). I really agree that Lily and Nik are the opposites attract definition, and the story is the perfect blend of yin and yang. These two were instantly loving, and tender. We had some hiccups but it was once again a very modern story. In recent years we have seen racial tension again, and I really loved that there was an approach to racial conflict in this story, nothing violent but it was a prevalent topic. Melissa handled her story with the love of a mother for her child, I felt like I was being caressed with the words and the faith shown in her story.
Toni’s story about the proxy wedding was truly fascinating. I spent a ton of time looking up a proxy wedding definition. Never the less, this book may tackle a subject unknown to some, but it is full of sweet love, tender moments that lead Damien and Carly to true wedding bells. One thing about Toni’s writing is that the reader is never lost, I feel like a I traveling a path of words designed just for me, to lead me to the perfect ending. I thought that it was unique to have a romance story built this way, and it certainly kept me hoping for love.
Toni is a modern day Christian romance author, truly, I am still reeling from the proxy wedding idea, I mean it’s crazy yet wonderful. It is a topic that can be tough to tackle, but like all her books Toni handled it with grace and faith. Trust me this is story that will grab your attention, then stick with you long after the end.
“Hope Beyond Savannah” is amazing! Okay, both stories are but Melissa introduces a culture that I have never read in a Christian fiction book before. It gave me tingles (in a great way). I really agree that Lily and Nik are the opposites attract definition, and the story is the perfect blend of yin and yang. These two were instantly loving, and tender. We had some hiccups but it was once again a very modern story. In recent years we have seen racial tension again, and I really loved that there was an approach to racial conflict in this story, nothing violent but it was a prevalent topic. Melissa handled her story with the love of a mother for her child, I felt like I was being caressed with the words and the faith shown in her story.
May 6, 2017
Sometimes you read books that you fall in love with, and with reveiwing it's often pretty hard when you read a book and the love just didn't click. Maybe I was being a little to harsh...I don't think I was. I'm not normally like that. I just didn't enjoy myself while reading it. For you, it may be different, but while I read it I couldn't stay enthralled in it like I could other books.
A Spring of Weddings isn't getting a five star rating from me I am sorry to say.
I know authors work doubly hard to make sure their readers fall in love with the characters, storyline, and all the other things involved in a book so giving a review that is more negative than positive is something I hate doing.
The reason for my dislike of this book has nothing to do with the authors and everything to do with the storylines.
The first short story, A Proxy Wedding, didn't have the oomph to make me fall in love... I had never heard of a proxy wedding before this so I was expecting something different and exciting, but the story seemed too rushed. Meet each other, fall in love, fight, fall back in love, etc... it was very traditional. If you're going for traditional than this storyline is perfect for you. But I get a little tired of the same ol' same ol'.
The second story, Hope Beyond Savannah, was a little less traditional, but it was also more right before the wedding (they were already engaged).
One main thing I didn't like about both books was that I learned more about the characters on the pre-read (I can't think of the right word right now...) on the back of the book than I did in my entire reading of the short stories.
I'm going to have to go with 3 out of 5 stars for this book. Try it for yourself and let me know what your think... maybe I was just judging it wayyyy to harshly.
A Spring of Weddings isn't getting a five star rating from me I am sorry to say.
I know authors work doubly hard to make sure their readers fall in love with the characters, storyline, and all the other things involved in a book so giving a review that is more negative than positive is something I hate doing.
The reason for my dislike of this book has nothing to do with the authors and everything to do with the storylines.
The first short story, A Proxy Wedding, didn't have the oomph to make me fall in love... I had never heard of a proxy wedding before this so I was expecting something different and exciting, but the story seemed too rushed. Meet each other, fall in love, fight, fall back in love, etc... it was very traditional. If you're going for traditional than this storyline is perfect for you. But I get a little tired of the same ol' same ol'.
The second story, Hope Beyond Savannah, was a little less traditional, but it was also more right before the wedding (they were already engaged).
One main thing I didn't like about both books was that I learned more about the characters on the pre-read (I can't think of the right word right now...) on the back of the book than I did in my entire reading of the short stories.
I'm going to have to go with 3 out of 5 stars for this book. Try it for yourself and let me know what your think... maybe I was just judging it wayyyy to harshly.
May 4, 2017
These authors have created a lovely pair of unique and especially creative love stories which are sure to delight readers drawn to this genre. A real 5-star winner for each story and both authors!!
A Proxy Wedding (Toni Shiloh)
This story’s premise is truly unique - an actual proxy wedding! What? How? Who?
With such an intriguing storyline, you’ll be brought immediately into the lives of these characters and how they are drawn together in a most improbable way.
Shiloh is known for her stories of improbable love that blooms and grows and faith that triumphs despite challenges. A proxy wedding is a real thing but I sure hadn’t heard about it before reading this sweet story!
Hope Beyond Savannah (Melissa Wardwell)
In this faith-filled multicultural love story, Melissa Wardwell offers her readers an opportunity to discover more about Samoan language, customs and traditions. The soon-to-be-wed couple must trust God and walk in faith when their choices are questioned and their future together seems shaky.
Love triumphs but not before this special couple must walk through adversity that serves to strengthen the bonds of their God-ordained union.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
A Proxy Wedding (Toni Shiloh)
This story’s premise is truly unique - an actual proxy wedding! What? How? Who?
With such an intriguing storyline, you’ll be brought immediately into the lives of these characters and how they are drawn together in a most improbable way.
Shiloh is known for her stories of improbable love that blooms and grows and faith that triumphs despite challenges. A proxy wedding is a real thing but I sure hadn’t heard about it before reading this sweet story!
Hope Beyond Savannah (Melissa Wardwell)
In this faith-filled multicultural love story, Melissa Wardwell offers her readers an opportunity to discover more about Samoan language, customs and traditions. The soon-to-be-wed couple must trust God and walk in faith when their choices are questioned and their future together seems shaky.
Love triumphs but not before this special couple must walk through adversity that serves to strengthen the bonds of their God-ordained union.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
May 8, 2017
Both of these authors are new to me, but they are truly talented! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading these two sweet stories, but I was pleasantly surprised. I was so glad that I had the chance to read these captivating stories of love and hope.
The characters in both stories quickly weave their way in to your heart to stay forever. Damien, Carly, Nik and Lily were complex and beautifully created! Watching these four characters grow in love and become just who God intended them to be, was refreshing for me! The authors throw in a few laughs here and there, making this an unputdownable read for me!
I definitely give these beautiful, faith filled stories 4 stars. From start to finish of this fast paced, heart capturing story, I felt I was among friends, not characters in a simple book. These authors are truly great at what they do, and I am highly anticipating the next amazing read from these two lovely ladies! Well done!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
The characters in both stories quickly weave their way in to your heart to stay forever. Damien, Carly, Nik and Lily were complex and beautifully created! Watching these four characters grow in love and become just who God intended them to be, was refreshing for me! The authors throw in a few laughs here and there, making this an unputdownable read for me!
I definitely give these beautiful, faith filled stories 4 stars. From start to finish of this fast paced, heart capturing story, I felt I was among friends, not characters in a simple book. These authors are truly great at what they do, and I am highly anticipating the next amazing read from these two lovely ladies! Well done!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
November 3, 2019
A Spring of Weddings tells the stories of two sweet romances. The first is a novella by Toni Shiloh, A Proxy Wedding. How far will friends go to help out their best friends? As Carly and Damien agree to be proxy bride and groom for their friends will they end up finding romance too? The author tells a fun and engaging tale of two strangers discovering that even if relationships are confusing, they can be fulfilling too.
Melissa Wardwell brings readers the second novella in the book, Hope Beyond Savannah. Lily and Nik are eagerly anticipating their wedding and then the mother-in-law-to-be shows up. Will her prejudice cause a break-up? The author shares some traditions and customs of Samoa in this captivating story of forgiveness and romance.
The stories in A Spring of Weddings bring out the power of love and readers who love sweet romances will not want to miss this book. I won a copy of the book in a contest and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
Melissa Wardwell brings readers the second novella in the book, Hope Beyond Savannah. Lily and Nik are eagerly anticipating their wedding and then the mother-in-law-to-be shows up. Will her prejudice cause a break-up? The author shares some traditions and customs of Samoa in this captivating story of forgiveness and romance.
The stories in A Spring of Weddings bring out the power of love and readers who love sweet romances will not want to miss this book. I won a copy of the book in a contest and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
May 4, 2017
A Spring of Weddings is a double blessing! The book has two novellas, "A Proxy Wedding" and "Hope Beyond Savannah" In "A Proxy Wedding," Toni Shiloh has crafted an engaging tale of love, trust, and faith involving two strangers on a single mission to help their best friends get married while the bride and groom are deployed overseas. The reader is drawn into the story from the first sentence through Shiloh's captivating writing and by the vulnerability of her characters and their need to trust God to free them from their fears of failure. "Hope Beyond Savannah" opens with a proposal, but will there be a wedding? The uniting of two families is not always easy., and when it involves two cultures thousands of miles apart, it can be even more challenging. Through her endearing characters, author Melissa Wardwell weaves a touching story of love, faith, and acceptance.
May 5, 2017
A spring of weddings
Two good stories in one book but very different from each other.
The first one called a Proxy Wedding is definitely different. Carly and Damien who never met before is asked to stand in for their friends to get married but have to travel to a different state that does proxy weddings. They have a long way to drive together. I really enjoyed this different wedding story.
The second is about Lily and Nik planning a wedding in a short time and have a hard time with Nik's mother. I felt bad for Lily at times. Will things work out in the end? A very interesting story.
I had the opportunity to receive an advanced copy of the book.
Two good stories in one book but very different from each other.
The first one called a Proxy Wedding is definitely different. Carly and Damien who never met before is asked to stand in for their friends to get married but have to travel to a different state that does proxy weddings. They have a long way to drive together. I really enjoyed this different wedding story.
The second is about Lily and Nik planning a wedding in a short time and have a hard time with Nik's mother. I felt bad for Lily at times. Will things work out in the end? A very interesting story.
I had the opportunity to receive an advanced copy of the book.
May 11, 2017
I'd never heard of a proxy wedding before. I didn't even know they did that?!? So the premise was interesting and unique for Toni Shiloh's story. I like interesting and unique! ;)
July 26, 2017
A short and sweet collection of unexpected love: One story is of a soon to be daughter-in-law and her fiance's mother and the other is about a couple doing a favor for their friends.
June is usually the time for weddings but in this collection Spring is the time for love. I loved both stories and quickly Was involved in the storyline.
A Proxy Wedding - Carly wasn't too thrilled to go on a car trip with a stranger. But this car trip changed her life.
Hope Beyond Savannah- Lily adored her fiance. But his mother was hard to get a long with. Will the marriage be called off? I loved that this story involved a family from Samoa.
Great read for the Spring..the time for renewal....where things come to life again. Enjoyed every moment. I will recommend this collection...
GIVEAWAY:
https://promosimple.com/ps/b614
About the Authors
Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and Christian fiction writer. Once she understood the powerful saving grace thanks to the love of Christ, she was moved to honor her Savior. She writes to bring Him glory and to learn more about His goodness.
Melissa Wardwell was born and raised in a small mid-Michigan community living there still with her Husband and three children. She enjoys taking pictures, reading, and leisurely rides with her husband on their motorcycle. All her stories revolve around women who are mothers. Single mothers, widowed mothers, young mothers, married mothers, and even women who have a mother’s heart but no children of her own.
Her hope is that each story touches your heart, gives you hope, or just gives you a moment away from the chaos of life.
June is usually the time for weddings but in this collection Spring is the time for love. I loved both stories and quickly Was involved in the storyline.
A Proxy Wedding - Carly wasn't too thrilled to go on a car trip with a stranger. But this car trip changed her life.
Hope Beyond Savannah- Lily adored her fiance. But his mother was hard to get a long with. Will the marriage be called off? I loved that this story involved a family from Samoa.
Great read for the Spring..the time for renewal....where things come to life again. Enjoyed every moment. I will recommend this collection...
GIVEAWAY:
https://promosimple.com/ps/b614
About the Authors
Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and Christian fiction writer. Once she understood the powerful saving grace thanks to the love of Christ, she was moved to honor her Savior. She writes to bring Him glory and to learn more about His goodness.
Melissa Wardwell was born and raised in a small mid-Michigan community living there still with her Husband and three children. She enjoys taking pictures, reading, and leisurely rides with her husband on their motorcycle. All her stories revolve around women who are mothers. Single mothers, widowed mothers, young mothers, married mothers, and even women who have a mother’s heart but no children of her own.
Her hope is that each story touches your heart, gives you hope, or just gives you a moment away from the chaos of life.
April 25, 2017
What fun stories.. Two totally different and so romantic stories! A wedding by proxy with the two best friends filling in.. How fun how two who have never met before get caught up in the wedding! Then a wedding that is almost canceled because of.. yep.. the Mother-in-law! Both very entertaining reads..
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April 26, 2017I very much enjoyed Hope Beyond Savannah by Melissa Wardwell. I loved seeing Nik's culture throughout the book. I also loved the story line. I think it's every bride's fear that they'll not get along with their mother-in-law. I loved how Lily and Nik handled the situation.
*No rating since I'm a featured author.
*No rating since I'm a featured author.
April 29, 2017
Springtime refreshes the imagination with flowers blossoms, weddings, and the misty scent of rain. Toni Shiloh and Melissa Wardwell’s book, A Spring of Weddings, brings two unique stories revolving around romance and twitterpation. Interesting to me was that the wedding in Toni Shiloh’s novella isn’t about the main characters at all. It adds a unique twist in plot. Toni has an interesting way of assembling unchartered novels with distinct elements—such as a proxy wedding. This is a definite first for me.
It seems crazy to me for a couple to get married without being in the same room, but apparently, it’s a thing. I love reading fiction for the pure joy of learning something I’d never known before. My one concern about A Proxy Wedding deals with the end of the book—and the falling out. It doesn’t ring true to me. However, overall, I thought it was a charming plot.
In Hope Beyond Savannah, Melissa Wardwell’s novella, Nik and Lily are engaged. Then comes the mother-in-law. I know many couples can relate to the difficult trials of fitting in with the in-laws. Melissa combined conflict with sweet, romantic scenes between Nik and Lily. In the end, I thought the problems were resolved too quickly which made it hard to believe.
I give these novellas a four-star rating. It’s a sweet, light-hearted read, perfect for staying inside on rainy days or sitting on the porch while warm sunrays beam down. I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
It seems crazy to me for a couple to get married without being in the same room, but apparently, it’s a thing. I love reading fiction for the pure joy of learning something I’d never known before. My one concern about A Proxy Wedding deals with the end of the book—and the falling out. It doesn’t ring true to me. However, overall, I thought it was a charming plot.
In Hope Beyond Savannah, Melissa Wardwell’s novella, Nik and Lily are engaged. Then comes the mother-in-law. I know many couples can relate to the difficult trials of fitting in with the in-laws. Melissa combined conflict with sweet, romantic scenes between Nik and Lily. In the end, I thought the problems were resolved too quickly which made it hard to believe.
I give these novellas a four-star rating. It’s a sweet, light-hearted read, perfect for staying inside on rainy days or sitting on the porch while warm sunrays beam down. I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 30, 2017
A Spring of Weddings is a good way to pass the weekend, or anytime really :). The authors have done an amazing job of creating stories and characters that you will want to root for. With a little humor and maybe a touch of sadness they will carry you on a journey that you will want to take again and again. There is just enough friction to keep the stories interesting without bogging them down. A Spring of Weddings is a book you will want to read again and again, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
*I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
*I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
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