The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck – Sassy Contemporary RomCom in INSPY Fiction

The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner | Book Review

THE STORY | Charmed lifestyle has been the normal for Sarah. Or at least that’s how it seems. In the aftermath of her divorce, Sarah felt listless and unsure what to do. In an “overnight success” kind of story you only see in the movies, Sarah, along with a non de plume, becomes a best-selling novelist. Then, her life forever changes when Sarah becomes a Christian. This complicates
matters because a. Sarah’s novels aren’t exactly appropriate for her new convictions and b. she still owes another book under her contract.<

What’s a girl to do?

Life tilts on its axis when, while dealing with these changes, Sarah runs into – quite literally, the man of her dreams.

REVIEW | No secret has been made of my love of contemporary fiction. It’s been documented well and yes, I talk about this all the time. This is why anytime a new contemporary work of fiction releases from a favored publishing house (especially those that are smaller like Revell), I sit up and take notice. Not only does ‘Sarah Hollenbeck’ celebrate a new novel, it also marks the (traditional publishing) debut of its author, Bethany Turner.

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Inside these pages, readers are sure to feel and discover a myriad of emotions. There are tears, laughter and even heartbreaking moments. The story doesn’t shy away from realistic situations (for these characters), but there’s a lighthearted manner in which the story unfolds that makes everything work. Bethany has a knack for this kind of storytelling, and she does it with ease and class. The “moving parts” of this story work together seamlessly and all of it feels organic to these characters.

Speaking of the characters, I adore them all. Whether it’s the titular heroine or her love interest, there’s no shortage of realistic and endearing characters. The romance is especially lovely. It’s sweet, but also sassy and I loved its progression. Sarah and Ben are clearly meant for each other from that “meet cute” and from there, the ups and downs of their relationship only makes them stronger.

Anyone who wants a contemporary novel in the inspirational market that breaks out of the typical box will love The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck. It’s bursting with sharp wit
and authentic characterizations. In short, this book should be no secret. ♥

Content: there is some “PG13” (ish) content in this novel. Mostly some talk of sex, “waiting,” and a few innuendos.

Sincere thanks to the publisher, Revell for providing a complimentary copy of this novel; all opinions are my honest thoughts.