With You Here by Sarah Monzon – Review

About the Book

Holy Roman Empire, 1527
In the wake of Martin Luther’s religious reforms, Princess Christyne von Heidelbraum is compelled by her sense of duty to help ease the burden of her people. When she stumbles upon a dying man in the woods, she vows to aid him—even when she discovers the arrow shot in his leg was put there by a heretic hunter. With both her physical and spiritual well-being in danger, she must choose between conscience or adhering to the laws of the Empire.

Present Day
Doubting her calling to become a hospital chaplain, Amber Carrington takes time off from her theology studies to volunteer with refugees in Germany. Working with children, making a difference, reconnecting with the conviction that once drove her—these were her expectations. An instant attraction to a professional soccer player wasn’t a part of the plan…and she can’t let him distract her from her purpose.

As a new Christian, Seth Marshall is determined to put his popularity as a world-renowned footballer to good use. Unfortunately, old habits and public opinions are hard to overcome. When he falls hard and fast for Amber Carrington, his former life—and her no-dating policy—may block his perfect shot for the woman he loves.

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In My Opinion

Sarah Monzon concludes the Carrington Family series with a character many of us who have grown up in the church can relate to.

Amber Carrington doubts her call to ministry. As someone who came to Christ early and didn’t stray, she feels she has no testimony and cannot relate to those she longs to minister to. It takes a trip to Germany, a football (aka soccer) star, some encouragement from her big brothers, and the story of a centuries ago princess’s convictions to open Amber’s eyes and ease her doubts for her future.

“When had she lost sight of that simple truth? It was never about any of her merits or lack there of. God didn’t care if He had pulled her out of the lowest places and washed her clean, or if He’d only had to help her up when she stumbled and scraped her knee. He didn’t compare her journey to anyone else’s an neither should she.”

The historical and contemporary portions of With You Here fit together like pieces of a puzzle, only revealing the entire picture at the end of the story. The romance is sweet and endearing, and the refugee children Amber and Seth work with melt your heart.

The entire Carrington Family series is fantastic, but for me, this one stands out as my favorite.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.