Friday, March 13, 2015

Devon's Choice by Catherine Bennett, Blog Tour & Giveaway

devon's choice
Devon’s Choice

Life holds no surprises for Devon Murphy. Her life consists of keeping tabs on her aging Irish father, working part time at a coffee shop, and building her online graphics design business. Devon’s only tricky situation is a shallow relationship with the pampered and affluent Michael Turner, who sees her as just another woman to conquer.
Following his father’s death, Brandon’s only goal is to expand the family business and live life on his own terms. That is, until he walks into the coffee shop one snowy evening and meets the enchanting, red-haired barista behind the counter. But can Devon and Brandon’s attraction for each other be strong enough to help erase their deepest disappointments and renew their faith in God?
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My Review
Let me begin by saying that I was in a very funky frame of mind when I read this book.  I did receive a copy for the tour to review and I am thankful to have been included; but I am going to share some honest thoughts about this book.  I encourage you to check out other reviews as it has received many ratings higher than mine.  
I had a very difficult time getting drawn into this book.  It wasn't the writing, which was fine and even though I thought the character development was fairly shallow, it was fine too.  The story premise is cute so I'm attributing it to my physical and emotional exhaustion of the week*.
By the last quarter of the book, I was hoping Devon would make a smart choice but honestly, she drove me so crazy I wasn't sure I would get a happy ever after - kudos to Bennett for keeping up the suspense on that end.  Devon's Choice definitely followed the formula of a feel-good romance
This is promoted as a book where faith factors in and it is in this that I found my biggest disappointment.  I felt like Devon's and Brandon's faith journey was shallow and would have liked to see more depth in this area.  I did think Bennett did a nice job of portraying how one can feel desire (usually is lacking in a Christian romance) and how to fight to maintain purity in a relationship.  This is probably one of my favorite aspects of the book.
I liked the bantering between Devon and Brandon.  I liked not knowing where the story was going; there were a few times when I was worried that the story would take a twist I did not want it to take.  I don't find a lot of formulaic romances to have unexpected twists and turns that keep me guessing - that was a refreshing treat.  I would have loved to see more of Meg and Brandon's mom (adored her so much from the little glimpse)
Overall, I am giving this 3 stars.  This is a fairly good read, I did enjoy it, I don't regret reading it and I think it is definitely a great read for the price.  If Bennett wrote Meg's story, I would definitely pick it up to read!  Again, read other reviews as my experience with the book fell at a really emotional time for me.  You will find the blog tour schedule below which will list all the blogs posting a review or an excerpt.

I gave this book: ★★★

★ = I did not like it     ★★ = It was okay     ★★★ = I liked it    
★★★★ = I really liked it     ★★★★★ = I loved it
 Praise for Devon’s Choice
5 Star Review on Amazon
“Devon’s Choice is an enjoyable Christian Romance. I was hooked from the first chapter. Devon is a strong, independent young woman who is not afraid to stand by her beliefs. The characters are very believable, and the story contains some surprise twists and turns. I would recommend this book to all readers who like Christian Romance. It is an excellent read.” ~ Review by Sharon B.
4 Star Review on Amazon
“This book is an enjoyable read. Moving along with Devon and her choices opens oneself to feeling with her the good and bad consequences of those choices. I particularly enjoyed the interaction between Devon and her dad. How she handles herself and all life throws at her makes for a good read.”
~ Review by Robin
5 Star Review on Amazon
This is a very emotional story of friendship, relationships and loss. Devon Murphy is a woman with strong morals. She loves and cares for her aging widowed father, works a part time job at a coffee shop with her friend Megan, and is putting her graphics art degree to work building a business. She is dating Michael Turner, who is egotistical, self-centered and treats her like a business deal. Brandon Forrester seems to have the same strong characteristics as Devon, family devotion, business ethics, healthier lifestyle and respecting other people. Devon knows that Michael is wrong for her and when she meets Brandon, they seem to have a connection. This story is about taking a hard look at your life and goals and making plans and changes. About dealing with the loss of a parent and knowing how to move on and putting your faith and trust in God and allowing Him to lead in your life. ~ Review by RedRabbitt

5 Star Review on Amazon
I really enjoyed this romance, the characters and their journey. It was very moving, endearing and engaging.
I appreciate the writing style, the emotional pull, the way the story unfolds.
I love to feel satisfied after reading a book, and this one does just that!
Very enjoyable read.
Highly recommend!
~ Review by Kimberly
Want to Know More?
Catherine Bennett
Author Catherine Bennett
I grew up in Ohio where I currently live with my husband and our two rescue Labradors. Some of my favorite things include reading, shopping, pepperoni pizza, Hershey bars and hanging out with my two grown sons. I also love dogs; so going to the dog park is cheap entertainment for my husband and I!
Growing up an only child, I had many imaginary friends. I believe this – and a love of books – fueled my desire to write. It was many years later that my dream of becoming a published author came true.
I’m grateful to God for always keeping a story in my heart and hope you are blessed and entertained by my book.
Blog Tour Schedule
March 9th
{A Leisure Moment} – Review
Getting Your Read On – Review
Mythical Books – Review
Diana’s Book Reviews – Review
Coffee Books & Art – Spotlight
March 13th
For the Art of It – Review
Mom With a Reading Problem – Review
My Own Little Corner – Spotlight
deal sharing aunt – Spotlight
Mommabears Book Blog – Spotlight
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1 comment:

Cathy Lascow said...

I so appreciate you taking the time to read and review "Devon's Choice". Your review was well-written and thoughtful. I loved the idea for a future story!
Best Wishes!
Catherine

March 13, 2015 at 4:24 PM

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