Contemporary Romantic Fiction Book Review: All That Really Matters

About the Book

Title: All That Really Matters 

Author: Nicole Deese 

Genre: Contemporary Romantic Fiction 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: April 6, 2021

Click here to purchase a copy of this novel. 

Publisher's Book Description

"Molly McKenzie's bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice have earned her an impressive social media following, as well as a shiny monthly paycheck. When her manager-turned-boyfriend tells her of an upcoming audition to host a makeover show for America's underprivileged youth, all her dreams finally seem to be coming true. There's just one catch: she has little experience interacting with people in need.

To gain an edge on her competitors, she applies to volunteer at a transitional program for aged-out foster kids during summer, only the program's director, Silas Whittaker, doesn't find her as charming as her followers do. But since forfeiting a goal has never been her style, Molly's only option is to accept the terms Silas lays out and submit to his rules--even the most ridiculous ones pertaining to social media.  

Soon as the residents of the home become more than a means to pad her career resume, and Silas becomes more than an obstacle on her path to fame, her once-narrow focus expands to include the deep needs of those she's serving... and perhaps the ones she's neglected inside herself as well. It took years to build her platform, but only one summer to discover what really matters most."

 

My Review

All That Really Matters, by Nicole Deese, is a beautifully written book. From beginning to end, it is everything a great novel should be. Authentic, vulnerable, and full of heart, this novel envelops the reader in a relevant story that is wholly thoughtful and meaningful. With a well-developed plot and compelling characters, this book is thoroughly engaging and memorable.

Utterly immersive in its style and profoundly moving in its scope, this novel perfectly showcases the irrefutable talent that Ms. Deese possesses as a writer and a storyteller. With humor and insight, she develops a storyline that graciously and effectively explores friendship, love, forgiveness, purpose, insecurity, trauma, restoration, sacrifice, and faith. With elements of sweet romance, a bit of drama, and even hints of mystery and suspense, the plot of this book is refreshingly original and engaging.

The first-person point of view of the main characters is dynamic and engrossing. Their emotional, personal, spiritual, and relational growth throughout the novel is real and touching. Furthermore, the secondary characters are so captivating and so likable, the reader cannot help but wish they will someday be the lead characters in their own novels.

Uplifting and truly moving, All That Really Matters, is a special book that entertains and inspires. With genuine hope and introspection, it welcomes the reader to step safely into the worthy spaces of compassion, obedience, purpose, and calling that yield true acceptance and contentment. This novel is an absolute pleasure to read, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

 

About the Author: Nicole Deese 

“Nicole Deese is a Carol Award winner and a RITA and INSPY Award finalist. When she's not working on her next contemporary Christian romance novel, she can usually be found reading one by a window overlooking the inspiring beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She lives in small-town Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two rambunctious sons, and princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.” --Biography from Nicole Deese’s author page on Amazon.com. 

Click here to visit Nicole Deese's website.