From This Moment is a heartwarming story by Kim Vogel Sawyer. As Jase begins his job as assistant pastor, he, Lori, and Kenzie form a strong bond of friendship. The author keeps the reader's attention as she brings each of the three young adults through difficult issues--death, not only of a fiancée but the dream of a future in missions, family relationships, self-image, and a desire to share the gospel with loved ones. The story is a good reminder that we may have plans but God directs our steps. The characters are realistic and relatable, people I'd like to know in real life. I enjoyed the mystery of the lost ring and then there are Kenzie's brownies which sound so yummy. Thank goodness the author included the recipe!! I'd love to have another book to find out more about what happens with the three friends. Readers who enjoy contemporary romance will not want to miss this one.
I received a complimentary book from Waterbrook and Multnomah Publishers and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

DELIGHTFUL!

This is a wonderful inspirational book that demonstrates how God works in, around, over, through, because of and in spite of ALL our circumstances! It is the story of three young adults who find themselves in the same small church in Kansas. It was one of those friendships that was God-ordained, for such a time as this. They are three souls who have been battered by circumstances in their pasts but each are diligently working on a closer personal relationship with God. Jase is the youth minister who is dealing with his own doubts about God’s goodness after losing his fiancée in a tragic accident. Lori is the newly appointed church custodian with no self worth and terrible relationship with her father and compensates by overeating. Their friend Kenzie has left the Amish world and has come to live among believers. She is feeling very convicted to return to her family and share the Gospel but has to come up with a financial plan for a bus ticket.

Sawyer weaves a beautiful story of redemption in the lives of all three of these characters through an unlikely set of circumstances. Even though each of her characters has major flaws, she draws on their strengths and allows them to work together for a common goal and in the end, they each come away with a renewed faith. Also, Sawyer allows the characters to question God in some things and shows how God brings the right people in your life to encourage you and mentor you. I particularly enjoyed this book as I have worked in some type of youth ministry for the past 45 years.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by WaterBrook Publishers. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.

Kim Vogel Sawyer excels at writing touching stories! There’s so much to love about this book: the sweet-but-hurting characters; the gut-wrenching pain that so accurately mirrors real life; the way that Sawyer draws you into the story from the very first page; and the perfect blend of inner turmoil and exterior broken-world issues that both helps you ponder deep spiritual issues while also mourning the reality of the world in which we live. These elements all work together to craft a setting and cast of characters that live on beyond the turn of the last page.

Which is one thing I loved about this book: the characters. I really loved Kenzie’s sincerity, Lori’s desire to learn and improve, and Jase’s search for truth. The general kindness among the entire cast added to the community element of the story.

As much as I enjoyed this story, though, and basically read it in a single sitting because I didn’t want to put it down, I have found myself pondering the structure of the story ever since – I think because I liked Jase, Kenzie, and Lori too much not to think through it all again. What I’ve realized is that there are a few plot holes that make the story feel a bit off-balanced – not necessarily in the this-is-real-life way but in the I-hope-there’s-a-sequel-coming–because-too-much-was-left-undone–and-feels-wonky kind of way.

Sawyer wraps up the biggest named problems that the characters have, but with three main characters, the action toward the end is a bit uneven – and there is a plot hole that is still bugging me. I think a sequel that brings people back to this small Kansas church – or even home to Indiana with Kenzie but stays in touch with her friends – would do much towards resolving all of the conflict in this story. I feel like Kenzie got shorted, and I wanted to see more resolution for her – for her own problems, for her past, for an accurate description of the ring’s story.

Type A me has to point out that the Amazon description of this story isn’t exactly accurate. While it should be a vague summary, of course, it assigns information to the wrong characters and keeps the balance off.

All in all, I enjoyed the story that I read and the characters as they were written, no matter how incorrectly Amazon describes them.

From This Moment is the perfect story for those who love sweet characters and simple plots. If you’re wrestling with where God is in the midst of pain or how to handle complex interpersonal relationships, give this one a try.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

This is the first book that I have read that has had an Amish component to it as I usually don't read them. The storyline was beautifully written and had me so engaged. Lori's story had me in tears and reflecting on my own life and battles. Truly this is an authentic story that resonates with the reader. The characters are flawed just like we all are which made the story all that much more believable. Would totally recommend it to read!

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from WaterBrook and Multnomah. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

A book that was touching and inspirational. A story that moved me greatly. Jase was heartbroken. He questioned his faith after experiencing a loss. He accepted a job as a youth minister in a small town. This move changed not only his life but also Kenzie's and Lori's.
The main characters all had to learn how to emotionally deal with their pasts. Everyone is different in how they handle loss or grief. Some find unhealthy ways to deal with their pain. This can lead to very serious consequences.
The book had some unexpected twists and turns which made the ending not as I expected it to. I loved it!!
A few Bible passages came to me as I read this book.
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (NIV)

I received this book from WaterBrook & Multnomah to give a honest review.


Author Bio

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a highly acclaimed bestselling author with more than one million books in print in seven different languages. Her titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband, Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and her grandchildren

If I'm honest, not my favorite Sawyer book. There wasn't a lot of tension in the story and at times it felt like it was moving very slowly.

HOWEVER, what made this a really great book were the three main characters, Jase, Lori, and Kenzi. I found myself relating to each one of them throughout the story. Each one had a struggle that I've faced at some point in my life. Recently, I have related most to Lori. I don't want to ruin the story for you by going into great depths, but sufficient to say too many times in my life I've been Lori.

I would encourage you to read this book if you've be trapped in legalism with your faith, struggled with life events asking yourself "where's God?" or feelings of not being good enough. Looking into the lives of these three will just might give you some insights to yourself and more importantly a God that loves you.

As far as a storyline, not my favorite, but the message within the story AWESOME!

Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was under no obligation to provide a review.

From this moment by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a contemporary Christian romance story with such good messages. Kenzie has left the Amish community and is working in a fabric store. In her spare time she weaves items to donate to missions. He boss's sister has sent her a large box of clothing to use for her weaving and in one of the item's pocket is a ring. Despite putting a notice on social media, no one has been able to fully describe the ring.
Lori works with Kenzie in the fabric shop and often gives her rides to church and social gatherings. When the shop suffers financially, Lori volunteers to go part time and take a cleaning position at their church.
Jase has recently moved to town to be the church's youth pastor and to help out the elderly pastor. Jase is recovering from losing his fiance and is struggling to move on. When searching his memento box, he realizes her ring is missing, thinking one of his youth may have taken it, he reports it to law enforcement.
This is a touching story of three young adults who are all struggling with loss in one way or another. It is an enjoyable story to read and see how the three help each other . This story touches on topics of mourning loss, eating disorders and wanting to lead others to the Lord. Basically this is a very good clean story with just touches of deep friendship and young romance. I liked the discussion questions in the back of the book, especially where do you see these people a year from now. Does this hint at a follow up for Kenzie? I hope so.
I voluntarily received a complementary ebook of this story from WaterBrook Multnomah from NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Author Kim Vogel Sawyer once again writes a story that will keep you turning the pages. The characters in From This Moment are well written with emotions and trials we all face. Jase is doubting God, which is something most of us have done when life hurts, but as we read about his journey back we see God’s goodness everywhere. Faith deepens in both of the main characters. But will it be enough?

Written from the perspective of several people, you will read about journeys of faith. Healing from the past. Forgiveness of loved ones. And always with hope. If you enjoy contemporary Christian fiction that won’t leave you feeling dejected, then I recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

From This Moment, by Kim Vogel Sawyer, is one of my favorite books written by her. I love how Vogel can write so many different types of stories.

There are three main characters in this contemporary novel. Jase Edgar is the new Youth Minister at a small-town Kansas church, Beech Street Bible Fellowship. Lori Fowler is a spunky young woman drawn quite strongly to Jase, who volunteers to help with the youth and works as the church custodian. In addition, there is Kenzie Stetler, a young woman who left the Amish faith for life in Wichita, Kansas.

It was interesting to read a story about an Amish woman who has left the faith. Usually, you read about someone becoming Amish, or they remain in the faith.

Vogel has a fantastic way of drawing you into a story, making you want to meet the characters, and never leave!



Vogel gives each person real-to-life problems to overcome or deal with, making the story so much more relatable. Jase is struggling with his faith, wondering if God is really there. Lori struggles with emotional eating, speaking without thinking and problems with her father. Kenzie realizes how some of her choices might affect her family and grapples with how to reconcile her feelings.

Rich in optimism, hopefulness and faith, From This Moment, will resonate in your heart, leaving you thinking about it for a long time.

I received From This Moment from Waterbrook through NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

From This Moment by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a heartwarming and emotional novel. It is well-written with developed characters. The point-of-view switches between our main characters: Pastor Kraft, Jase, Kenzie, and Lori. We get to know each of them along with other members of the congregation. It gives us a chance to learn about their issues and struggles. From This Moment is an emotional novel. Jase is struggling with his faith after the loss of his fiancé, Rachel. Lori is a bubbly, friendly woman who still misses her mother. She deals with her problems by indulging in food. Lori is smitten with Jase from the moment she saw him. Kenzie may have left her Amish community behind, but she cannot give up everything she learned. When she finds a ring in donated clothing, Kenzie is determined to find the ring’s owner. Kenzie has not seen her family in years, and she misses them. I enjoyed getting to know each character as they worked through their struggles. From This Moment deals with love, acceptance, friendship, faith, humility, hope, and loss. We get to see God at work and what happens when we follow the path He has set out for us. We see that God truly does work in mysterious ways. I enjoyed reading this touching story. I especially liked the descriptions of Kenzie’s loom, the process of making the rugs, and how it made Kenzie feel. Kenzie’s brownie recipe is included. Kim Vogel Sawyer has given us a compelling story with From This Moment that you will not want to put down.

Jase has been battling doubts ever since his fiance was killed in a car accident. Now at a new post as youth pastor, can he minister to others while uncertain himself of God's goodness? And when Lori, who has her own problems, grows friendly, Jase is forced to decide whether or not to open his heart again - to her and to God. Can God work through something as simple as a lost - and found - ring to bring them together and restore their faith?

Many books tell their story from two points of view. This weaves together a storyline from four different points of view, and is the richer for it. While some aspects are predictable (the ring...), I was awed by how beautifully everything was brought together at the end. I took a while to 'take to' Lori - her exuberance felt mildly exhausting to my introversion - but the author won me over in the end by showing me what was behind it. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters, and really hope that Kenzie will get her own story next. An inspiring and encouraging story - highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

From This Moment is a delightful, thought-provoking novel. The plot lines are multi-generational, each with depths of insight. The range of emotions and personal questions of “Who Am I?” with hope of becoming the person each character wanted to be is very well written. The realistic situations and characters’ dilemmas and reactions create a wealth of discussions, both internal and external.

Jase is a new youth minister at a small church in an even smaller town in Kansas. Recently moved from San Antonio after his fiancee died, he's struggling with anger and doubt in his Christian walk. Kenzie is ten years removed from her Amish heritage, leaving the community when she learned how the grace of Christ could free her from the rules and regulations of her family's religion. She's been thinking more and more about her family, though, and the darkness they're still lost in. Lori is a young woman who was emotionally and verbally abused by her father as a teenager. She uses food as a coping mechanism when she feels lonely or inadequate, despite knowing that it's pointless and wishing she could stop. Jase, Kenzie, and Lori are each searching for answers from God, and when Jase moves to Kansas, he's welcomed into the friendship that Kenzi and Lori already have. With each other's help, the three just might find their answers.

Through the first half of this book, I didn't really understand what it was meant to be about. Part of that is because the official synopsis is atrociously inaccurate and misleading. But it's also because it really took a while for things to get going. And actually, in the end, it turns out the book really was about what I saw in that first half--these characters each struggling with their doubts, uncertainties, and questions about God and their faith. There were parts of the story that I liked, that I thought came together well in the end, and parts that fell flat for me, or that I questioned why they were included. Overall, it was a decent read, but not a stand-out for me.

The storyline I related to the most was Lori's over-indulging in times of extreme emotion--good or bad. I haven't had an abusive past like hers, but over-indulgence is an issue I have struggled with in the past, though not to the degree that she does it. I really liked the way Kenzie's story shaped up too, after wondering what it had to do with anything for a while near the beginning. Jase's storyline is the one that I was least connected to, partly because I've not experienced loss like that, but also partly because the decisions he made really bugged me. There is a 4th perspective in this story too, which I felt was wholly unnecessary. I couldn't help but compare it to the previous book I read by this author, which also included 4 perspectives. But where it worked in that one, it just seemed pointless in this one. I'm not sure what the pastor's perspective added, nor did I feel like it was particularly resolved.

If there was one cohesive lesson this story seemed to bring out, it was the benefit of allowing others to share your burdens. Each of these four people was originally struggling alone and seemed to only see a turning point when they opened up to a fellow Christian about their trouble. Actually, that's not really true for one of them (I won't say who), but perhaps it's just that I wished he/she had let others help him/her along the way. And on a related note, Kenzie really drove me crazy at some points. How can you say "God will provide" and then refuse all of God's ways of providing? If a really specific incident hadn't happened, she absolutely would have stayed in the same place, spinning her wheels, still waiting and hoping for God's providence. (You ever heard the one about the guy sitting on the roof of his flooded house, refusing to get in the boat or helicopter because he knew God would save him? Yeah, she's kind of like that.)

So in the end, this is not a book I would choose to read again. However, I think that my issues with it will likely not be shared by most others. If you are looking for a Christian book where romance isn't the main plot and where the author ties multiple storylines together into one story where God's hand can be seen, this might be a good book for you.

If you ever want to read a book just because it has a beautiful cover, From This Moment by Kim Vogel Sawyer should be the one you choose. I knew I needed to read it before I even read the book blurb.

Thankfully, the story inside is just as good as the cover. So far, my favorite of Kim’s books is Room For Hope, but From This Moment might now be tied for first place! (Although I’ve never read one I didn’t love!)



This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I received a free copy of From This Moment through Net Galley. All opinions are my own.


SUMMARY
Jase Edgar’s dreams for future ministry and a family were destroyed the night his fiance was killed in a car accident. Now, he’s trying to start over as a youth minister in Kansas, but no one knows just how deep his pain and doubt go.

Lori Fowler has a bubbly personality, and a true desire to serve others. But her struggles with overeating and difficult relationship with her father make it hard for her believe she’s worthy of love.

Kenzie Stetler left her Amish family when she learned of God’s grace and became a Christian. She still holds onto her antique weaving loom, and uses it to raise money for missions.

When she finds an engagement ring in some donated clothing items, she sets out to find the owner. She’s struggling with a feeling that she should return to her roots, to tell her family about Christ, and true freedom through salvation. But can she return? And how will she afford to get there?

Three people from very different backgrounds, are drawn together to learn about love, grace God’s goodness. But can they release the past to move forward into a joyful future?

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FROM THIS MOMENT REVIEW
For me, it doesn’t matter if I’m reading one of Kim’s historical or contemporary novels. I always find her characters so relatable. From This Moment is no exception!

She somehow takes normal life events, and uses them to show a beautiful Biblical message. I thought Lori’s story was so compelling, raw and honest. My heart hurt for her, and I saw myself in her.

I also really appreciated Jase’s struggles. He’d had so much heartbreak, he wondered if God was really good. I know that sounds terrible, but I think many of us have those same questions at times.

The way that God showed up and proved it to Jase was so powerful. It’s the same way He reaches out to you and me. That was maybe my favorite part of this story.

I found Kenzie’s story to be very intriguing, too. We often read Amish stories and find their lifestyle so charming and quaint. We gloss over the realization that they depend on a works salvation to get them to Heaven.



Kenzie’s desire to take the message of salvation back to her family was eye-opening to me. This was another really great part of the story.

From This Moment is not really a romance novel. But there are feelings growing between Lori and Jase. Romance is usually a side story in Kim’s novels.

It was so sad to see the way that Lori thought of herself. She totally glossed over her good qualities, and only saw herself through the lies of her father. What a difference in the way Jase saw her! And that final chapter…well, it deserves reading.

I have noticed that in every one of Kim’s books, she presents a very clear plan of salvation. That’s something I find missing in a lot of “Christian” novels.

I also find her stories to be very chaste and clean. As someone who read some questionable novels as a teenager (ahem) I think her books are really appropriate for young girls.

I loved, loved, loved From This Moment. It’s so sweet and has an amazing message about how God loves us, pursues us, and has a future planned for us that might be something we never expected.

I really enjoyed this book. I can't wait to try the brownie recipe. I hope there is another book that tells McKenzie's story. I would like to revisit the people of Bradlleyville.

I highly recommend this book. It is entertaining, you will laugh and cry at the same time.

Thank you Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah for allowing me to read this title for an honest review..

This author never disappoints me with her stories. I loved the characters. Each of the main characters has a tiny secret that we get to learn during the story. I loved that this has so much inspiration running through it. This made me laugh and cry and it was hard to put down. I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook and Multnomah for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

've read this author before, but I'm not sure I've read any of her contemporary fiction books. I've loved her historical fiction works. But I will be picking up her contemporary fiction books soon. I read because I love to read. I limit my fiction reading because I often do not find that reading fiction is worthy of the time commitment invested. But this book, it's worthy to be read. I gave it 5 stars, a rare accolade for this regular book launcher.

This story is told from several different characters' perspectives, Merlin and Laura Kraft, Jase, Kenzie, and Laurie. It's not at all confusing to follow, and their lives are all intertwined. But the value of all their perspectives is that they are each learning to trust God with different wonders going on in their hearts, souls, and minds, and the author masterfully shows their thinking on the page, as well as how the Holy Spirit can work in the life of those who believe. To me their thinking aloud and wonder about being lonely, being enough. being loved, are so likely to be thoughts and feelings that most of us have at one time or another. And the way that they grow and learn to listen to the voice of the Lord through the Holy Spirit is encouraging. I will admit, it's captured on the pages in a brief, neat time period, and there isn't a long wait for any of the characters to see the hand of God intervene, but that's okay because it's a novel, and for most real readers likely to be one they read in less than two days.

I think this is the perfect novel for 2021. After this past year that we have endured with the pandemic across the world, I found From this Moment to be the reminder and relief that I think we are craving, and it points us to the right solution to all our worries, emotions, and struggles.

Thankful to partner with Waterbrook Press and read an advanced copy of the book.

Keep reading! If you think that this book gets off to a slow start, don't stop reading or you will miss a blessing. If difficult times have ever caused you to question God, this is the book for you. Jase, Lori, and Kenzie all have pasts that have impacted their faith; each find their way to Christ, to God, in different ways, and from different depths of despair, but He was there guiding them, healing them, forgiving them. This book has characters to love and lessons to learn. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from WaterBrook via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

From This Moment is a heart wrenching but inspiring story by Kim Vogel Sawyer. The lost of your loved fiancé is earth shattering as well as doubt making for Jase. I really liked how when he didn’t understand why something happened he didn’t completely abandon his faith. He just thought he did. While questioning he still did the next right thing one step at a time. We can go to God with our questions, doubts, heartbreaks, and cynicisms which is what Jase does. God is able and stronger than all of that which is what Jase learns.

Such an authentic story of life’s crushing blows and God’s comfort, guidance, and ability to bring beauty out of the ashes. Told from several perspectives, the ring becomes more important in healing than thought possible. I was right there with each as they experienced struggles, setbacks, and victories.

The entire story is lovely but Jase’s words to the congregation were exceptional. Tissues were needed for that. However, the words that resonated me the most were not Jase’s but Kenzie’s “Reach for hope. Always reach for hope.”

To the author, Lori said it best, “You did real good. Ten plus plus.” I say From This Moment is unforgettable, I will be thinking on this story for quite a while.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

It seems like only yesterday that I was reading and reviewing Kim Vogel Sawyer's The Librarian of Boone's Hollow. Well, the author returns with another Christian novel, From This Moment, and this one is set in present-day Kansas. Each chapter goes back and forth between the viewpoints of four main characters:

Texas boy Jase has come to small-town Kansas to be the new youth minister at a small-town church. Trouble is, he thought he'd be doing it with his fiancee Rachel. But Rachel was killed in a car accident, and now Jase is trying to move on without her.

Jase's mentor and the church's main pastor is Merlin. He's been leading the flock of this church for many years, and he's been doing it all by himself. He's happy to have Jase help him out, especially since he's harboring a secret about his health.

One of the congregation members is Kenzie, a former Amish woman who chose to live as an Englischer after her "rumspringe". She's a weaver who uses an old loom and donated clothing to weave rugs and placemats for a mission center so they can sell the items and raise money for missions. But one day, she discovers a ring inside the pocket of a pair of pants, and she's got to find the owner.

Meanwhile, Kenzie's friend and co-worker at the local fabric shop, Lori, is struggling with overeating and feelings of inadequacy due to her strained relationship with her father. When Lori sees Jase at church, she's immediately smitten. But can she put down the pan of brownies to let Jase see who she really is?

Not gonna lie - the ring storyline was pretty predictable, and because this is a Christian novel, you already know that God is going to work things out for the good in the end. Obviously, you also know that romance is going to bloom somewhere, but I was a little surprised at where it all ended up.

Predictability aside, each of the characters has relatable qualities. You'll read this and see part of yourself in each person. And I like that about the book.

What I didn't like so much was some of the hardline literalness some of the characters had when it came to following Bible verses. Maybe it just had to do with Kenzie being brought up in a strict way, and maybe I should just let it go and accept her as is the way the other characters did, but I found it odd that she was so secretive about her weaving projects. I get it - you don't want to draw attention to the good works you're doing because attention is not why you're doing it. BUT then aren't you in effect lying about it? And wouldn't you want people to know so they can donate clothing to you or help out in some way or, at the very least, hear about the Gospel, which Kenzie is so hellbent on bringing back to her Amish family?

Okay, so maybe this review has gone a little too far in the spoiler category. You can see that there are parts of the book that would be ripe for discussion, and the author does include a discussion guide in the back of the book. If you're looking for a good Bible study/book club pick that has a happy ending, then you'll want to consider From This Moment.

From This Moment is published by Waterbrook Multnomah and is on bookstore shelves today.