Title: Something Borrowed, Someone Blue
Author: Chautona Havig
Collection: Part of The Second Yes collection (Crossroads Collection #5)
Major Themes: Dating, Marriage, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian Living, Books for Women
Synopsis: Preston and Lara are both Christians, but coming from quite different church backgrounds; should their differences stand in the way of their marriage?
Esther’s review:
I’ve enjoyed Chautona Havig’s books for years now, but it’s been a good few months since I took time to actually read one. And since Something Borrowed, Someone Blue is her most recent release, I thought that would be a great story to pick up with and get back in the groove again. What an interesting book! The main subject is something I’ve spent considerable time mulling over, but I’ve never seen it in a story before. It wasn’t a heavy book, like some can tend to be. It was just an enjoyable read with a bit of depth, which I really appreciated.
Lara’s life seems to be going well. Her marriage to Preston St. John is coming up quickly, and there are many different details for her to attend to in preparation. Her biggest trouble, however, is the fact that Preston goes to the Seventh Day Adventist church, and she doesn’t. The different churches themselves might not be a problem, but her lack of knowledge about his church certainly seems to be. And since she hasn’t been able to take time off work and he hasn’t managed to get to any of her services, the difference isn’t being healed very quickly. There will be time enough for that after the wedding, right? Lara’s friends, however, aren’t so sure. They have concerns, but no great grounds to base them on yet. Will they be able to find a way to voice their concerns without hurting her or saying something they shouldn’t? Can they figure out how to help her, without damaging their relationships?
I loved the main thrust of this story—be careful who you marry. Slow down, think ahead, see how this is not only going to affect you but also your children, and then make a wise decision based on what the Word of God says. Like I said earlier, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this subject and how it can affect our daily lives. It’s made me want to be very careful who I marry, but also thankful for wise people around me who can encourage me in good directions.
Though Something Borrowed, Someone Blue is a lighter read than some, there are lots of good points to consider and remember. If you are looking for an inspirational book with a touch of romance, this might be an excellent choice for you!
Best quote:
“She needs a guy who is happy with her being who she is, instead of who he wants her to be.” —Lauren
Funniest quote:
“He kissed her goodnight with as much interest and passion as a rubber ducky in a kissing booth.”
I requested a free review copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest opinion of it.
Emma’s review:
I enjoyed Something Borrowed, Someone Blue more than most of Chautona Havig’s more recent books. They’ve all been good, but a lot of them have been more on the “fluffy” side. This one is a lot more serious and gives you more to think about. It’s also lighthearted at times; I love Lauren, the little sister of a secondary character. I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more from her in future books!
Ty has been looking forward to the first wedding of his parishioners. Many weddings have been held in his building, but not of those who regularly attend. When Lara appears in his office unexpectedly one day to ask about a date that the church is available so she can plan her wedding, he is excited, even though she is marrying someone from a different faith. He plans their premarital counseling and is all set to marry them.
When red flags start popping up in Ty’s mind about Preston and Lara, what should he do? He knows Lauren’s opinion—but is she just an overdramatic teenager? He starts to investigate Preston, and finds a mystery in his past. What should he do about that? How serious are the differences in belief between Preston and Lara, anyway? They both believe that Jesus died for their sins; isn’t that enough?
This is a great story highlighting the unequal yoke that people can find themselves in when they marry someone from another denomination. There are some very good points raised; Chautona has done a great job with this one. The only thing I’m not quite sure about is the ending. It’s sweet and ties up the story very well; I’m just not sure I could support it in real life.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and chose to write a review.
WARNING: Kissing is mentioned in ch. 1, 4, 9, 12, 16, 17, 21, and 22. A character swears in ch. 22.
Age levels:
Reading Independently—Ages 15 and Above, Adults
Links to buy this book:
Amazon: Paperback
AbeBooks: View Choices on AbeBooks.com
Book Depository: Paperback
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