What do you think?
Rate this book
O'Connor Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change #0
Light in the Window, A
One Woman. Two Men.
One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.
But who will win her heart? Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues. But when two of Boston’s most notorious pursue her, she encounters a tug-of-war of the heart she isn’t expecting. Sam O’Rourke is the childhood hero she’s pined for, the brother of her best friend and a member of the large, boisterous family to which she longs to be a part. So when his best friend Patrick O’Connor joins in pursuit of her affections, the choice seems all too clear. Sam is from a family of faith and Patrick is not, two rogues whose wild ways clash head-on with Marcy’s—both in her faith and in her heart. While overseeing the Christmas play fundraiser for the St. Mary’s parish soup kitchen— A Light in the Window —Marcy not only wrestles with her attraction to both men, but with her concern for their spiritual welfare. The play is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family, and for Marcy, its message becomes deeply personal. Her grandmother Mima cautions her to guard her heart for the type of man who will respond to the “light in the window,” meaning the message of Christ in her heart. But when disaster strikes during the play, Marcy is destined to discover the truth of the play’s message first-hand when it becomes clear that although two men have professed their undying love, only one has truly responded to “the light in the window.”
One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.
But who will win her heart? Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues. But when two of Boston’s most notorious pursue her, she encounters a tug-of-war of the heart she isn’t expecting. Sam O’Rourke is the childhood hero she’s pined for, the brother of her best friend and a member of the large, boisterous family to which she longs to be a part. So when his best friend Patrick O’Connor joins in pursuit of her affections, the choice seems all too clear. Sam is from a family of faith and Patrick is not, two rogues whose wild ways clash head-on with Marcy’s—both in her faith and in her heart. While overseeing the Christmas play fundraiser for the St. Mary’s parish soup kitchen— A Light in the Window —Marcy not only wrestles with her attraction to both men, but with her concern for their spiritual welfare. The play is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family, and for Marcy, its message becomes deeply personal. Her grandmother Mima cautions her to guard her heart for the type of man who will respond to the “light in the window,” meaning the message of Christ in her heart. But when disaster strikes during the play, Marcy is destined to discover the truth of the play’s message first-hand when it becomes clear that although two men have professed their undying love, only one has truly responded to “the light in the window.”
MP3 CD
First published November 1, 2012
107 people are currently reading
1324 people want to read
About the author
Julie Lessman
45 books1,280 followersJulie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
March 7, 2016
So, apparently I completely forgot to review this book, and it annoys me because I remember greatly enjoying it despite the fact that I read most of it laying down on the couch with vinegar treatments in my ear to cure an earache that lasted for weeks. But the book was so good that I often forgot about my ear and had an awesome time reading.
Last summer I had the immense pleasure of binge-reading Julie Lessman's O'Connor saga (the Daughters of Boston series followed by the Winds of Change series), and read all six books consecutively, because I couldn't get enough of the wonderful O'Connor family and all their complicated romances. The last book, A Love Surrendered, disappointed me a little and tampered down my JL binge so that I was able to wait and save this book for Christmastime. I was super excited to get to it when the time came, and although it was different than I what I had been expecting, it was really good and I sighed a deep sigh of contentment once it was done.
Going back a few years in late 19th century, A Light in the Window tells the story of the incredible parents of the O'Connor children, whom we came to know and love so much in all 6 previous novels. The heroine, naturally, is the beautiful Marceline Murphy (Marcy), and if you've read any other book about that family you know who she ends up marrying, but for the sake of readers who might decide to read this one before the rest (which I would have done had I known about its existence sooner), I won't spoil it. Let me just say, I already knew he'd be wonderful judging from his appearances in the rest of the saga, but oh my goodness, as the hero of his own story he was completely swoon-worthy.
If you've read Julie Lessman before, you know her style; intense drama, passionate kissing, and lots and lots of whirlwinds of emotions. Her books are usually quite dizzying, but this one, I assure you, is very different. It's slow. It takes its time. Not too much so that it becomes really boring, but enough to let characters and plot points develop smoothly instead of having everything rushed and couples kissing madly every five pages. None of that here. It not only is much slower, but there isn't endless smooching and fondling every time a man and a woman are alone together in a room. The hero of this book, finally, shows self-control, and respects the heroine's wishes for chastity. *round of applause* It was refreshing, and made the book so much more enjoyable!
If you're not much into love triangles, the story might become quite irritating, as it centers around Marcy and her two rakish suitors. Patrick and Samuel have been BFFs their entire life, and are more brothers to each other than simple friends, but unfortunately their strong bond doesn't prove enough to resist the pull Marcy has on each of them. Both renowned womanizers and accomplished rakes, Patrick and Samuel are on every respectable woman's blacklist, and none wishes to avoid them more than Marcy. Patrick because she genuinely mistrusts him and doesn't believe him capable of any proper feeling, and Samuel because she has had a secret crush on him for years and is wary of the way he makes her feel. Her biggest dream is to have children of her own someday, but she knows that in order to have the wonderful, united family she craves, she must seek a good, Christian man whose virtues would be similar to her own. As neither Patrick nor Samuel fit the bill, she resolves to avoid them as much as she can, and to daydream about Samuel no more.
Since I'd already read the rest of the series I knew who Marcy was eventually going to choose, it sort of "spoiled" the romance a bit, but it was still very exciting to see how it would turn out and how and when Marcy would realize which man God had intended for her. There were a few twists and situations that really held me on the edge of myseat couch frantically gripping my Kindle, and the last quarter or so was really amazing and overall I absolutely loved the book. At first I was scared that the story was becoming too redundant as there was a bit of a pattern being established, but during the last half things really picked up and it was totally worth laying on the couch with an infected ear.
The romance was beautiful (I even cried a tiny bit here and there!) and the main characters were amazing. I'm sitting here thinking about them now and recalling as much as I can about the story, and the first thing that comes to mind is that I really miss those people, and would pick up this book again in a heartbeat! And it isn't even really a Christmas book, some of the final chapters were around Christmas, but there was no Christmas-y feels, and it can easily be read any time of the year (for those who like their books to "match" the season in which they read them -- I like to do that!).
Loved it! Strongly recommended, along with the rest of the series!! :D
Last summer I had the immense pleasure of binge-reading Julie Lessman's O'Connor saga (the Daughters of Boston series followed by the Winds of Change series), and read all six books consecutively, because I couldn't get enough of the wonderful O'Connor family and all their complicated romances. The last book, A Love Surrendered, disappointed me a little and tampered down my JL binge so that I was able to wait and save this book for Christmastime. I was super excited to get to it when the time came, and although it was different than I what I had been expecting, it was really good and I sighed a deep sigh of contentment once it was done.
Going back a few years in late 19th century, A Light in the Window tells the story of the incredible parents of the O'Connor children, whom we came to know and love so much in all 6 previous novels. The heroine, naturally, is the beautiful Marceline Murphy (Marcy), and if you've read any other book about that family you know who she ends up marrying, but for the sake of readers who might decide to read this one before the rest (which I would have done had I known about its existence sooner), I won't spoil it. Let me just say, I already knew he'd be wonderful judging from his appearances in the rest of the saga, but oh my goodness, as the hero of his own story he was completely swoon-worthy.
If you've read Julie Lessman before, you know her style; intense drama, passionate kissing, and lots and lots of whirlwinds of emotions. Her books are usually quite dizzying, but this one, I assure you, is very different. It's slow. It takes its time. Not too much so that it becomes really boring, but enough to let characters and plot points develop smoothly instead of having everything rushed and couples kissing madly every five pages. None of that here. It not only is much slower, but there isn't endless smooching and fondling every time a man and a woman are alone together in a room. The hero of this book, finally, shows self-control, and respects the heroine's wishes for chastity. *round of applause* It was refreshing, and made the book so much more enjoyable!
If you're not much into love triangles, the story might become quite irritating, as it centers around Marcy and her two rakish suitors. Patrick and Samuel have been BFFs their entire life, and are more brothers to each other than simple friends, but unfortunately their strong bond doesn't prove enough to resist the pull Marcy has on each of them. Both renowned womanizers and accomplished rakes, Patrick and Samuel are on every respectable woman's blacklist, and none wishes to avoid them more than Marcy. Patrick because she genuinely mistrusts him and doesn't believe him capable of any proper feeling, and Samuel because she has had a secret crush on him for years and is wary of the way he makes her feel. Her biggest dream is to have children of her own someday, but she knows that in order to have the wonderful, united family she craves, she must seek a good, Christian man whose virtues would be similar to her own. As neither Patrick nor Samuel fit the bill, she resolves to avoid them as much as she can, and to daydream about Samuel no more.
Since I'd already read the rest of the series I knew who Marcy was eventually going to choose, it sort of "spoiled" the romance a bit, but it was still very exciting to see how it would turn out and how and when Marcy would realize which man God had intended for her. There were a few twists and situations that really held me on the edge of my
The romance was beautiful (I even cried a tiny bit here and there!) and the main characters were amazing. I'm sitting here thinking about them now and recalling as much as I can about the story, and the first thing that comes to mind is that I really miss those people, and would pick up this book again in a heartbeat! And it isn't even really a Christmas book, some of the final chapters were around Christmas, but there was no Christmas-y feels, and it can easily be read any time of the year (for those who like their books to "match" the season in which they read them -- I like to do that!).
Loved it! Strongly recommended, along with the rest of the series!! :D
August 3, 2021
I'm ditching sleep because I really need to talk about this.
***Also, uh, please scroll down to the appropriate place if you want a more review review... because I realize I start off with a lot of outpouring of feelings... and may continue with more outpouring of my feelings. Therefore, read at your own risk.***
I typically drift away from love triangles (because they can be stressful), and from, like, the... three other books with love triangles in them, this one was by far my favorite. Mostly because I vehemently despiiiiiiised one of the men. I shan't rant into that. But, wow! This wasn't what I thought it would be. The love triangle felt less of a "love triangle" since #1 We kinda already know who Marcy is going to end up with and #2 comparing the two men, we know that one of them is just the loser of the story. I'm being harsh... but I really really really don't like Sam. 😂
Anyway, above there is more of an expression of my opinion, so let's start with my girl MARCY because I need to talk about this girl.
This girl...
SHE DROVE ME INSANE. YOU HAVE NO IDEA.
Like, okay, I didn't particularly have a fondness over her throughout the book, but once she got addled in the brain after 50% of the story, she inevitably drove me nuts. No, I did not grow a fondness for her at 50-87ish% of the book (cus she drove me nuts). Oh, I was seething with such wrath with this lady. I was determined to severely dislike her for the rest of history and no longer look at my kindle again at one point. But after that 87ish% of the book when she came to her senses... I downright LOVED HER BACK. In my head, I could literally hear a CHORUS of Sophia hands just clapping in the air & Sophia heads nodding in approval. I was a proud mama.
But, back to the "she drove me nuts" aspect. There were honestly times where I couldn't understand why she did what she did. But I wouldn't call it "unbelievable" since it was "out of her character". I actually believe that it could happen to anybody, and she never hit me as "hey, that was odd for her!". She grew throughout the book, made a WHOLE BUNCH of mistakes that made me seeth with anger, but OH, how I admire her faith and love for God.
The fact is, there was never a point where I thought, "Marcy, I LOVE YOU." She grew on me throughout the book, and MAN was I protective of her. SHE AND I ARE SO ALIKE. Like, YOU HAVE NO IDEA. There was that one point where she exactly voiced my thoughts, and I was thinking, "I'm not the only one?????!!!!!" Thanks, Marc, for being relatable.
Though, relatable to an extent, because OH, THAT GIRL.. when she drove me nuts with her decisions...........
I'll stop there.
I love her back.
She's a woman right there.
And Patrick. You have to love Patrick. Like, wow. First, I loved LOVED his development throughout. I mean, he is SUCH a man. SUCH a man!!!!!! Unlike Sam- Oh, that Sam O'Rouke guy. I'm not sure if anyone feels similarly, but IHATE SEVERELY DISLIKE that man. Ohhhhh, he is the reason for the vehement emotions that literally took over my sanity. I practically was even wondering if I could even finish the book because of this guy. Yeah, he really really really drove me insane.
Don't play with the Sam.
I have discovered in reading Julie Lessman's novels that she will do a really good job in evoking much emotion from you. (And for this books' case, possibly inner anger that nobody, not even you, wants unleashing... lest to not have some not-so-godly words hum in your head 😳).
**This is the point where some review material shows its face😅**
Can I talk about the writing? (Why am I even asking.) Writing literally flows from the page, like, ever since reading the Isle of Hope series, I've noticed how writing naturally flows from the page. Every narrative and dialogue feels so natural, so unforced and flowy like it belongs there. It hooks you, and the characters pull you in to discover their story. And reading the whole book makes it feel that TIME IS NO SUCH THING!
The only con I had with this is that the book didn't feel like a historical novel. But compared to the intensity of drama this book had, that matter quickly flew past my mind since I was more occupied severely disliking Sam. (And eagerly trying to see what happens next.)
Oh, and *very* important. I love love how this novel conveys the importance of having a relationship/marriage that is God-centered. Some Christian fiction I've read in the past has never really stressed this point when there was a rogue/rake in the picture with a God-fearing woman. So, I appreciated how clear this was. And the next thing... I'mma share a quote that sums the message up.
Wow. That really hit me there, and it made the story feel so precious. It made Patrick stand out so much, and AH, made me cheer for him even more.
A Light in the Window wasn't what I expected. I honestly wasn't sure what I had expected, but this version was purely amazing and profound. I love romance, but it wasn't the romance, per se, that I love most about this book. It's more of the journey and Marcy's road to discovery, however cliche that sounds. XD I love and admire the strength and determination she had, even though she made me wanna throw my kindle across the room (but I would never do that, no matter what she did). Patrick's character development made me so immensely proud of him, but I treasured Marcey's the most. There were many tough moments for me to read, parts where my heart was thumping so erratically, and my tears were fighting to hold back. 😂 But gosh! It was worth it.
And I love it.
A Light in the Window is amazing.
***Also, uh, please scroll down to the appropriate place if you want a more review review... because I realize I start off with a lot of outpouring of feelings... and may continue with more outpouring of my feelings. Therefore, read at your own risk.***
I typically drift away from love triangles (because they can be stressful), and from, like, the... three other books with love triangles in them, this one was by far my favorite. Mostly because I vehemently despiiiiiiised one of the men. I shan't rant into that. But, wow! This wasn't what I thought it would be. The love triangle felt less of a "love triangle" since #1 We kinda already know who Marcy is going to end up with and #2 comparing the two men, we know that one of them is just the loser of the story. I'm being harsh... but I really really really don't like Sam. 😂
Anyway, above there is more of an expression of my opinion, so let's start with my girl MARCY because I need to talk about this girl.
This girl...
SHE DROVE ME INSANE. YOU HAVE NO IDEA.
Like, okay, I didn't particularly have a fondness over her throughout the book, but once she got addled in the brain after 50% of the story, she inevitably drove me nuts. No, I did not grow a fondness for her at 50-87ish% of the book (cus she drove me nuts). Oh, I was seething with such wrath with this lady. I was determined to severely dislike her for the rest of history and no longer look at my kindle again at one point. But after that 87ish% of the book when she came to her senses... I downright LOVED HER BACK. In my head, I could literally hear a CHORUS of Sophia hands just clapping in the air & Sophia heads nodding in approval. I was a proud mama.
But, back to the "she drove me nuts" aspect. There were honestly times where I couldn't understand why she did what she did. But I wouldn't call it "unbelievable" since it was "out of her character". I actually believe that it could happen to anybody, and she never hit me as "hey, that was odd for her!". She grew throughout the book, made a WHOLE BUNCH of mistakes that made me seeth with anger, but OH, how I admire her faith and love for God.
The fact is, there was never a point where I thought, "Marcy, I LOVE YOU." She grew on me throughout the book, and MAN was I protective of her. SHE AND I ARE SO ALIKE. Like, YOU HAVE NO IDEA. There was that one point where she exactly voiced my thoughts, and I was thinking, "I'm not the only one?????!!!!!" Thanks, Marc, for being relatable.
Though, relatable to an extent, because OH, THAT GIRL.. when she drove me nuts with her decisions...........
I'll stop there.
I love her back.
She's a woman right there.
And Patrick. You have to love Patrick. Like, wow. First, I loved LOVED his development throughout. I mean, he is SUCH a man. SUCH a man!!!!!! Unlike Sam- Oh, that Sam O'Rouke guy. I'm not sure if anyone feels similarly, but I
Don't play with the Sam.
I have discovered in reading Julie Lessman's novels that she will do a really good job in evoking much emotion from you. (And for this books' case, possibly inner anger that nobody, not even you, wants unleashing... lest to not have some not-so-godly words hum in your head 😳).
**This is the point where some review material shows its face😅**
Can I talk about the writing? (Why am I even asking.) Writing literally flows from the page, like, ever since reading the Isle of Hope series, I've noticed how writing naturally flows from the page. Every narrative and dialogue feels so natural, so unforced and flowy like it belongs there. It hooks you, and the characters pull you in to discover their story. And reading the whole book makes it feel that TIME IS NO SUCH THING!
The only con I had with this is that the book didn't feel like a historical novel. But compared to the intensity of drama this book had, that matter quickly flew past my mind since I was more occupied severely disliking Sam. (And eagerly trying to see what happens next.)
Oh, and *very* important. I love love how this novel conveys the importance of having a relationship/marriage that is God-centered. Some Christian fiction I've read in the past has never really stressed this point when there was a rogue/rake in the picture with a God-fearing woman. So, I appreciated how clear this was. And the next thing... I'mma share a quote that sums the message up.
We are God's abode, and His light shines through the windows of our lives into a dark and desperate world. Many may pass, enjoying the beauty of the light from afar, but few will be drawn to knock at the door, willing to embrace the Light of the World.
Wow. That really hit me there, and it made the story feel so precious. It made Patrick stand out so much, and AH, made me cheer for him even more.
"Guard your heart well, Marceline, for a man who will respond to the light in the window, for therein lies a gift of God like no other, except that of His Son."
A Light in the Window wasn't what I expected. I honestly wasn't sure what I had expected, but this version was purely amazing and profound. I love romance, but it wasn't the romance, per se, that I love most about this book. It's more of the journey and Marcy's road to discovery, however cliche that sounds. XD I love and admire the strength and determination she had, even though she made me wanna throw my kindle across the room (but I would never do that, no matter what she did). Patrick's character development made me so immensely proud of him, but I treasured Marcey's the most. There were many tough moments for me to read, parts where my heart was thumping so erratically, and my tears were fighting to hold back. 😂 But gosh! It was worth it.
And I love it.
A Light in the Window is amazing.
"He is the air that I breathe. The reason I live each day with hope despite trial or tribulation. The strength in my ones when I'm too weak to go on. The very presence in my heart that brings peace and joy to my soul."
April 11, 2022
I SO loved reading this poignant, emotionally impactful prequel. (I find that I pretty much always use the adjective 'poignant'... I guess I just gravitate toward those type of stories! XD) Getting the backstories of Mary and Patrick made them soo much more real to me (as if that was even possible) and just... ah. This was so good, complete with hard-hitting gospel truths - though Catholicism was the main character's religion, I don't remember finding anything doctrinally I'd disagree with other the concept of absolving people and things like that - and a rather agonizing love triangle. Actually, no 'rather' about it. My favorite part about this book may well have been Patrick. His character arc was just beautiful and so satisfying, and the way he loved Marcy so much even when it painted him in a bad light (with all that junk about... ugh, Sam, no offense)... let's just say I'm officially in with love the guy. (His protectiveness, his personality, all of it. *sighs*) Overall, this was a stirring, dramatic, tear-jerker any fans of Daughters of Boston or the Winds of Change series would love.
November 10, 2012
I have never read a book by Julie Lessman that I haven't totally adored. This prequel to the other six books in the O'Conner family's saga is more than satisfying, but I knew it would be since I love the author's writing. I enjoyed how this story brought everything together from the other books and showed how Marcy and Patrick grew to love each other following some major changes in both of their hearts early on.
This story has the expected romance and heat from a Lessman novel and the angst that continually pulls and pushes on the main characters to bring them together and tear them apart... repeatedly. Lovers of emotional tug-of-wars will enjoy this book. I thought it was great that I knew the characters well before I began to read the book. It made the story that much more satisfying, especially knowing that Marceline eventually got the large family that she'd always dreamed of.
Last, for people who haven't read any of Lessman's other books, reading this one would be the perfect place to start. I really enjoyed it.
This story has the expected romance and heat from a Lessman novel and the angst that continually pulls and pushes on the main characters to bring them together and tear them apart... repeatedly. Lovers of emotional tug-of-wars will enjoy this book. I thought it was great that I knew the characters well before I began to read the book. It made the story that much more satisfying, especially knowing that Marceline eventually got the large family that she'd always dreamed of.
Last, for people who haven't read any of Lessman's other books, reading this one would be the perfect place to start. I really enjoyed it.
February 18, 2020
I love the writing of Julie Lessman and from reading all the stories about Marcy and Patrick's children in the series Daughters of Boston followed by Winds of Change coming back to a prequel was an exciting bit for me. It's the kind of story where you know how it ends, but you just have to know how in the world that can happen because it seems nearly impossible. Through the stories of all the children's romantic lives you get bits and pieces of an amazing romance between Patrick and Marcy and being able to see how it developed in the first place is enchanting and set at Christmastime too! While I came into this thinking it to be a novella, it is a bit longer read than other novellas, but still it's short for Julie. But then as a lover of Julie's fiction, there can never be a story long enough. I cannot believe this series has come to an end!
Readers who have read any of Julie's books can come to this one and will love it. New readers, who have not yet read any of the story of the lives of the O'Connor family and their triune romances can come to this one and will love it I'm sure and it will spark a desire to see what happens in all their individual and family lives.
Take two rogues that seem almost too far gone to be forgiven, a girl nearly woman who is devote in her faith and praying to find the love of her life in a Godly-mate. Bring in her best friend and give her romance too in perfectly appropriate friendships as well. Add lots of redemption and a new heart for Christ. Tie it all together with a Christmas pageant including some characters with rough family lives and handicaps and you have a delightful read.
*Thanks to Julie and Nancy Berland PR for providing an eBook for review.*
posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
Readers who have read any of Julie's books can come to this one and will love it. New readers, who have not yet read any of the story of the lives of the O'Connor family and their triune romances can come to this one and will love it I'm sure and it will spark a desire to see what happens in all their individual and family lives.
Take two rogues that seem almost too far gone to be forgiven, a girl nearly woman who is devote in her faith and praying to find the love of her life in a Godly-mate. Bring in her best friend and give her romance too in perfectly appropriate friendships as well. Add lots of redemption and a new heart for Christ. Tie it all together with a Christmas pageant including some characters with rough family lives and handicaps and you have a delightful read.
*Thanks to Julie and Nancy Berland PR for providing an eBook for review.*
posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
October 22, 2012
A Light in the Window is one of those stories that you can’t wait to finish but you don’t want to end! Julie Lessman makes you want to know what happens next in the lives and love of her characters so you have to keep reading, but her characters are so real you fall in love with them yourself, and when the story ends you’re sad that it has. Julie is one of the few people I know that has a magical way of making you feel like you’re in the story and her characters are old friends. I finished the book and was so disappointed that I wouldn’t see Patrick and Marceline again! And then I remembered I read A Passion Most Pure when it first came out with Patrick and Marceline grown up with a family of their own. Now I’m going to go back and reread it just to get some more of these characters and Julie’s awesome writing. I truly believe we will see Julie’s books on the New York Times best seller list. They are that good.
I don’t usually do a summary of the book because that’s what so many people do, but to give you a hint of the tension in the story, Marceline has loved Sam O’Rourke, her best friend’s brother since she was a little girl. She’s always wanted to be a part of what she sees as their perfect family. When she returns after having moved away, she’s all grown up and Sam is now the city rogue along with his best friend Patrick O’Connor. The men spot the new beauty at different times, but both make her their next mission and lay claim to her.
Questions arise. Can love change a man? Can a long time friendship survive the competition of Marceline’s attention? And most of all how will Marceline see through prejudices and childhood dreams to find the man that God has chosen for her? If you like great conflict, real characters you fall in love with, vivid settings, and smoldering scenes between the hero and heroine, you are going to love this story.
I don’t usually do a summary of the book because that’s what so many people do, but to give you a hint of the tension in the story, Marceline has loved Sam O’Rourke, her best friend’s brother since she was a little girl. She’s always wanted to be a part of what she sees as their perfect family. When she returns after having moved away, she’s all grown up and Sam is now the city rogue along with his best friend Patrick O’Connor. The men spot the new beauty at different times, but both make her their next mission and lay claim to her.
Questions arise. Can love change a man? Can a long time friendship survive the competition of Marceline’s attention? And most of all how will Marceline see through prejudices and childhood dreams to find the man that God has chosen for her? If you like great conflict, real characters you fall in love with, vivid settings, and smoldering scenes between the hero and heroine, you are going to love this story.
March 1, 2013
Wow. Julie Lessman sure knows how to write complex.
Even when I knew for certain how A Light in the Window would end... you know, since I’ve read and adored every book Julie’s written about the hero and heroine’s six children... the complexities of the plot, the roller-coaster of emotions, the love triangles… all had me constantly clutching at the edge of my seat. So much so that I often had to put the book down… just to breathe. I’ve had to do this with every single one of her books though, so it was completely expected.
I’m so glad Julie went in with her agent and wrote this prequel to the O’Connor family’s story. I’ve been reading about the O’Connors ever since Julie’s first book came out years ago. I remember seeing it in Borders for the first time, falling in love with the cover photo, the words on the back cover, and how very awesomely thick (400+ pages!) it was. I took it home and have been officially addicted ever since.
I’ve learned so much about Patrick and Marcy throughout the years as I’ve been reading about their children’s love-lives... and oftentimes seeing things from their perspectives. It might be the writer in me, but I love knowing the entire story. And reading about the beginning of Patrick and Marcy’s love story now, after I’ve been acquainted with them for so long, brings back to mind so many things I’ve read about them over the years. And all these words, when combined and piled up into such a very touching and all-encompassing love story, teaches without fault how God’s awesome love for us can transform our dust and ashes into something beautiful, time and time again.
I am sad that this book won’t be in paperback (eBook format only), but I am very glad to have had the chance to read it for Julie’s pre-release blog tour. I give Julie Lessman’s A Light in the Window 5 stars.
Even when I knew for certain how A Light in the Window would end... you know, since I’ve read and adored every book Julie’s written about the hero and heroine’s six children... the complexities of the plot, the roller-coaster of emotions, the love triangles… all had me constantly clutching at the edge of my seat. So much so that I often had to put the book down… just to breathe. I’ve had to do this with every single one of her books though, so it was completely expected.
I’m so glad Julie went in with her agent and wrote this prequel to the O’Connor family’s story. I’ve been reading about the O’Connors ever since Julie’s first book came out years ago. I remember seeing it in Borders for the first time, falling in love with the cover photo, the words on the back cover, and how very awesomely thick (400+ pages!) it was. I took it home and have been officially addicted ever since.
I’ve learned so much about Patrick and Marcy throughout the years as I’ve been reading about their children’s love-lives... and oftentimes seeing things from their perspectives. It might be the writer in me, but I love knowing the entire story. And reading about the beginning of Patrick and Marcy’s love story now, after I’ve been acquainted with them for so long, brings back to mind so many things I’ve read about them over the years. And all these words, when combined and piled up into such a very touching and all-encompassing love story, teaches without fault how God’s awesome love for us can transform our dust and ashes into something beautiful, time and time again.
I am sad that this book won’t be in paperback (eBook format only), but I am very glad to have had the chance to read it for Julie’s pre-release blog tour. I give Julie Lessman’s A Light in the Window 5 stars.
October 27, 2012
A page turning romance from the pen of Julie Lessman.
Marceline is an upright young woman, who is well aware of the kind of young man that she doesn't want in her life, but the two men vying for her hand are anything but the godly man she hopes to find someday.
Patrick O'Connor & Sam O'Rourke are both determined to win her heart, but who, if either, will win her heart?
I absolutely loved this O'Connor Saga sequel, it was so fun seeing Marcy and Patrick as they were when they were young. I absolutely loved seeing Marcy younger, and I loved how she had God at the center in her life and wanted her romance to be God scripted.
Even if you sort of know how it's going to turn out (like if you've read any of the books in the O'Connor saga) I can pretty much guarantee that this lovely novella will still intrigue you with its many twists and sweet turns.
I loved the characters even more after seeing them as they were earlier in their lives, and I loved meeting new ones too! Every single one of them was so well developed, I really liked little Tillie, she was such a brave, spunky little soul, and I just wanted give her a big hug!
A Light in the Window is a lovely Christmas tale, with a Julie Lessman flare. I had a hard time not being late for work, because it was so hard to put down! Definitely one of my favorite O'Connor stories! I HIGHLY recommend!
I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!
Marceline is an upright young woman, who is well aware of the kind of young man that she doesn't want in her life, but the two men vying for her hand are anything but the godly man she hopes to find someday.
Patrick O'Connor & Sam O'Rourke are both determined to win her heart, but who, if either, will win her heart?
I absolutely loved this O'Connor Saga sequel, it was so fun seeing Marcy and Patrick as they were when they were young. I absolutely loved seeing Marcy younger, and I loved how she had God at the center in her life and wanted her romance to be God scripted.
Even if you sort of know how it's going to turn out (like if you've read any of the books in the O'Connor saga) I can pretty much guarantee that this lovely novella will still intrigue you with its many twists and sweet turns.
I loved the characters even more after seeing them as they were earlier in their lives, and I loved meeting new ones too! Every single one of them was so well developed, I really liked little Tillie, she was such a brave, spunky little soul, and I just wanted give her a big hug!
A Light in the Window is a lovely Christmas tale, with a Julie Lessman flare. I had a hard time not being late for work, because it was so hard to put down! Definitely one of my favorite O'Connor stories! I HIGHLY recommend!
I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!
December 24, 2021
I hate giving a negative review, but this book just didn't do it for me. This is the 4th book I've read from this author and frankly, they are all pretty much the same.
Almost every book is about a woman of faith who falls for the bad boy. And I don't mean like a little bad...these men are active womanizers, sleeping and drinking around ALL the time.
In this book specifically, the female MC is wanting the "right" man who is full of faith. She doesn't want to compromise her faith for passion....and yet, that's exactly what happens and she's blinded to it for almost the entire book. The male MC wants to capture her heart, but she refuses him due to his reputation. So, he asks the priest for advice and is basically told that he should "seek God to get the girl". This man is not a Christian. And he's being told to seek after God to land the girl he loves. Of course, God CAN use someone-even a love interest-to bring about His will and draw someone to repentance, but I feel that the constant theme of these books...where the "good girl" tries to change the "bad boy" is not a great influence on younger readers. Not to mention the very over-sexualization in the books. The book describes scenes of "fondling and suckling" necks, ears, and more. It's just not what I expect from a Christian fiction book.
I've come to the conclusion that this author is just not for me.
Almost every book is about a woman of faith who falls for the bad boy. And I don't mean like a little bad...these men are active womanizers, sleeping and drinking around ALL the time.
In this book specifically, the female MC is wanting the "right" man who is full of faith. She doesn't want to compromise her faith for passion....and yet, that's exactly what happens and she's blinded to it for almost the entire book. The male MC wants to capture her heart, but she refuses him due to his reputation. So, he asks the priest for advice and is basically told that he should "seek God to get the girl". This man is not a Christian. And he's being told to seek after God to land the girl he loves. Of course, God CAN use someone-even a love interest-to bring about His will and draw someone to repentance, but I feel that the constant theme of these books...where the "good girl" tries to change the "bad boy" is not a great influence on younger readers. Not to mention the very over-sexualization in the books. The book describes scenes of "fondling and suckling" necks, ears, and more. It's just not what I expect from a Christian fiction book.
I've come to the conclusion that this author is just not for me.
December 19, 2020
*Warnings*
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out.
So...I have these two terrifying diseases that have arisen upon my broaching of the world of Julie Lessman. The first one is an illness which robs me of sleep, my resolve, and time to write. It all began on the 23rd of April, and so far, I've found no cure. It's called the "I'm-in-love-with-Julie's-books" disease. The second one is a mental obsession that causes me to read all the nasty, negative reviews on books like--for a prime example--A Light in the Window before writing my own. It leaves me with a sour taste in my mouth and a need to rant about certain things that, in light of eternity and the other 50+% of people who have sense in their noggins, don't necessarily matter.
In other words, I'm trying to be nice in this review.
I told myself last night that I would only read a chapter or two. You see, I just finished the Isle of Hope series--as in the night before--and within the past 14 or so days, I haven't written squat in my next book. (Which, I suppose, isn't all that disappointing. Not that I don't love my own book babies, but, like Marceline Murphy, I find other people's babies--or characters--adorable and in need of some Gracie love. 😘😍🥰❤❤)
See what I mean? No resolve. I'm as weak-kneed as Julie Lessman's heroines when the hero kisses them senseless.
Anyway...
I obviously went far over my two-chapter limit. Which had me going to bed three hours past my self-allotted bedtime. Fortunately, I wake up in a very good mood when I've only had six hours of sleep. (Surprisingly, I need at least nine. Hmm. Have I ever slept for nine whole hours? Doubt it.)
A Light in the Window, however, was definitely worth it.
To be honest, there are some things. (No, I'm not agreeing with the nitpicks. I'm trying to make them feel better, because you simply have to feel bad if you don't like a novel by the Sovereign Queen of Romance.) In a way, it's kind of Hallmark-y. And I hate Hallmark. I know, I know--so wrong.
You know--Christmas plays and fundraisers and nice old people and homey atmospheres and cute kids named Holly. Screams Hallmark.
Except Hallmark is boooorrriiinnnggg and passionless. Which A Light in the Window is not. (Meaning, if you are a Hallmark fan and don't like passion, move along.)
Then there's that love triangle. I mean, what is this? A classic YA novel with a bunch of teen angst? Oh, the horror! 😱😱😱
Lucky for you--and definitely me--it's not.
Marcy Murphy is eighteen, thank-you-very-much, which makes her a legal adult and insusceptible to teen angst. That, and she's from the glorious year of 1895. Kids were, at least in Patrick O'Connor and Sam O'Rourke's cases, very mature at a very young age a very long time ago.
For those who have already read the Daughters of Boston series, then you know the end to the love triangle. If, like me, you haven't you can still probably figure it out. If, however, you can't, then rest assured that this love triangle does not have this I-have-a-serious-aversion-to-love-triangles girl puking her guts out over the sheer stupidity of the three angles in question. (Not to say they didn't make some stupid mistakes, but I have tolerance rate and, sometimes, it can run very high.)
What I'm trying to say is...I'm not Catholic.
I was raised Southern Baptist, but I'll loosely say I'm Protestant.
I've never actually met a person who I knew for sure was Catholic, and I certainly don't have any family members who are--that I know of anyway.
I'm also not Irish. Well, a little less than 40% Irish, but mostly Scottish. There's some Spanish, German, Danish, Dutch, and Norwegian in there too, I believe. Maybe--I hope--some Native American or African.
Beside the point.
I'm certainly not from Boston either. I'm a proud South Georgian. Never been past Tennessee or lower than Florida.
But A Light in the Windowmade me feel like an Irish Catholic Yankee.
I felt so at home in the atmosphere of the Southie neighborhood, the Catholic community, the Irish families. Julie Lessman is a master at that--making you feel there. You feel the beat of the gas streetlamp's dim light upon your head, hear the clomp of horses and the zoom of bicycles and the putter of automobiles, smell the sacristy wine on Sam and Patrick's breath.
You feel the characters and their emotions, their struggles, their faith or lack of.
You feel the passion, the moving of the Spirit, the frantic thumping of your heart as if you truly were there.
You don't have to understand it--the annoying love triangle, the cliche plot, the characters' stupidity, the overwhelming passion--to feel it.
And just like that, you don't have to understand faith or love or forgiveness--or even the light in the window--to feel beckoned by it, to turn toward it, to move to it, to accept it. It wouldn't be faith otherwise.
Julie Lessman knows that. (She uses it to prey upon your weakness and take advantage of you and your pocket change.) She knows that whether you're a Christian who doesn't understand the depth of Christ's passion for you and the passion He has blessed God-honoring relationships with or an unbeliever who doesn't understand forgiveness and redemption...you can still feel it. And you can place your faith in it.
All that mushy-gushiness aside, Julie Lessman is one seriously good writer. Her prose is beautiful--just the right amount of detail and emotion, lyrical in a way some would call clumsy, what with all that neck cuffing and hip slacking and wacky verb usage. (One of my personal favorites, actually. I love twisting the meaning of a verb. It's classic.) And she knows her stuff--her romance stuff, her spiritual stuff, her historical stuff. I love how she knows what she's doing like she lived in that very time and place. (And this goes for her contemporary series, too. I adore when authors don't shy away from name brands or cultural references. I mean, this is reality, at least for someone.) Me personally, I can't tell you the brand of the canned soup so-and-so would have eaten at such-and-such time period. One of the reasons I write pirate novels, because all that detail doesn't really matter when you're too busy wondering whether starboard is left or right. (I'm pretty sure it's right. 😉😋) So when an author knows the name of the street or the brand of the hat, I'm applauding them unabashedly.
Long story short, Lessman encompasses it all--the romantic passion a girl like me devours; the spirituality so rarely found in fiction at all; the gorgeous prose any author can commend; the intriguing characters who steal your heart; the historical and cultural details of the time and place and people; the story that never lets you go. And A Light in the Window is a perfect picture of that amazing talent.
BookWorm
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out.
So...I have these two terrifying diseases that have arisen upon my broaching of the world of Julie Lessman. The first one is an illness which robs me of sleep, my resolve, and time to write. It all began on the 23rd of April, and so far, I've found no cure. It's called the "I'm-in-love-with-Julie's-books" disease. The second one is a mental obsession that causes me to read all the nasty, negative reviews on books like--for a prime example--A Light in the Window before writing my own. It leaves me with a sour taste in my mouth and a need to rant about certain things that, in light of eternity and the other 50+% of people who have sense in their noggins, don't necessarily matter.
In other words, I'm trying to be nice in this review.
I told myself last night that I would only read a chapter or two. You see, I just finished the Isle of Hope series--as in the night before--and within the past 14 or so days, I haven't written squat in my next book. (Which, I suppose, isn't all that disappointing. Not that I don't love my own book babies, but, like Marceline Murphy, I find other people's babies--or characters--adorable and in need of some Gracie love. 😘😍🥰❤❤)
See what I mean? No resolve. I'm as weak-kneed as Julie Lessman's heroines when the hero kisses them senseless.
Anyway...
I obviously went far over my two-chapter limit. Which had me going to bed three hours past my self-allotted bedtime. Fortunately, I wake up in a very good mood when I've only had six hours of sleep. (Surprisingly, I need at least nine. Hmm. Have I ever slept for nine whole hours? Doubt it.)
A Light in the Window, however, was definitely worth it.
To be honest, there are some things. (No, I'm not agreeing with the nitpicks. I'm trying to make them feel better, because you simply have to feel bad if you don't like a novel by the Sovereign Queen of Romance.) In a way, it's kind of Hallmark-y. And I hate Hallmark. I know, I know--so wrong.
You know--Christmas plays and fundraisers and nice old people and homey atmospheres and cute kids named Holly. Screams Hallmark.
Except Hallmark is boooorrriiinnnggg and passionless. Which A Light in the Window is not. (Meaning, if you are a Hallmark fan and don't like passion, move along.)
Then there's that love triangle. I mean, what is this? A classic YA novel with a bunch of teen angst? Oh, the horror! 😱😱😱
Lucky for you--and definitely me--it's not.
Marcy Murphy is eighteen, thank-you-very-much, which makes her a legal adult and insusceptible to teen angst. That, and she's from the glorious year of 1895. Kids were, at least in Patrick O'Connor and Sam O'Rourke's cases, very mature at a very young age a very long time ago.
For those who have already read the Daughters of Boston series, then you know the end to the love triangle. If, like me, you haven't you can still probably figure it out. If, however, you can't, then rest assured that this love triangle does not have this I-have-a-serious-aversion-to-love-triangles girl puking her guts out over the sheer stupidity of the three angles in question. (Not to say they didn't make some stupid mistakes, but I have tolerance rate and, sometimes, it can run very high.)
What I'm trying to say is...I'm not Catholic.
I was raised Southern Baptist, but I'll loosely say I'm Protestant.
I've never actually met a person who I knew for sure was Catholic, and I certainly don't have any family members who are--that I know of anyway.
I'm also not Irish. Well, a little less than 40% Irish, but mostly Scottish. There's some Spanish, German, Danish, Dutch, and Norwegian in there too, I believe. Maybe--I hope--some Native American or African.
Beside the point.
I'm certainly not from Boston either. I'm a proud South Georgian. Never been past Tennessee or lower than Florida.
But A Light in the Windowmade me feel like an Irish Catholic Yankee.
I felt so at home in the atmosphere of the Southie neighborhood, the Catholic community, the Irish families. Julie Lessman is a master at that--making you feel there. You feel the beat of the gas streetlamp's dim light upon your head, hear the clomp of horses and the zoom of bicycles and the putter of automobiles, smell the sacristy wine on Sam and Patrick's breath.
You feel the characters and their emotions, their struggles, their faith or lack of.
You feel the passion, the moving of the Spirit, the frantic thumping of your heart as if you truly were there.
You don't have to understand it--the annoying love triangle, the cliche plot, the characters' stupidity, the overwhelming passion--to feel it.
And just like that, you don't have to understand faith or love or forgiveness--or even the light in the window--to feel beckoned by it, to turn toward it, to move to it, to accept it. It wouldn't be faith otherwise.
Julie Lessman knows that. (She uses it to prey upon your weakness and take advantage of you and your pocket change.) She knows that whether you're a Christian who doesn't understand the depth of Christ's passion for you and the passion He has blessed God-honoring relationships with or an unbeliever who doesn't understand forgiveness and redemption...you can still feel it. And you can place your faith in it.
All that mushy-gushiness aside, Julie Lessman is one seriously good writer. Her prose is beautiful--just the right amount of detail and emotion, lyrical in a way some would call clumsy, what with all that neck cuffing and hip slacking and wacky verb usage. (One of my personal favorites, actually. I love twisting the meaning of a verb. It's classic.) And she knows her stuff--her romance stuff, her spiritual stuff, her historical stuff. I love how she knows what she's doing like she lived in that very time and place. (And this goes for her contemporary series, too. I adore when authors don't shy away from name brands or cultural references. I mean, this is reality, at least for someone.) Me personally, I can't tell you the brand of the canned soup so-and-so would have eaten at such-and-such time period. One of the reasons I write pirate novels, because all that detail doesn't really matter when you're too busy wondering whether starboard is left or right. (I'm pretty sure it's right. 😉😋) So when an author knows the name of the street or the brand of the hat, I'm applauding them unabashedly.
Long story short, Lessman encompasses it all--the romantic passion a girl like me devours; the spirituality so rarely found in fiction at all; the gorgeous prose any author can commend; the intriguing characters who steal your heart; the historical and cultural details of the time and place and people; the story that never lets you go. And A Light in the Window is a perfect picture of that amazing talent.
BookWorm
October 22, 2012
4.5 stars
There aren't too many authors whose books I'll stay up until the wee hours of the morning reading but Julie Lessman is one of those. Following her theme of "Passion with a Purpose" this November the prequel to her best-selling Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series's tells how it all got started. In spectacular form as always Lessman treats readers to a love story with characters who are passionate about life as they are about their faith and they aren't afraid to show it. A Light in the Window is one of the finest examples of self-published fiction that I've read, period.
Marcy Murphy is a young woman with her future ahead of her and she knows what she wants AND what she doesn't want! When both of Boston's most notorious rogues express their interest in Marcy you can bet they'll quickly learn she isn't going to fall at their feet. Like any good love triangle you can expect quite the back and forth between Marcy, Sam, and Patrick. If you have read Julie's other books you know how the story ends but don't expect to be bored with a "predictable" story. Nope. Nah-uh. Not in this book!
A Light in the Window is just the kind of story to warm the cockles of your heart and get you in the Christmas mood. If you're lamenting the end of this family saga like I was you will want to put this on your Christmas wishlist. It's a great way to conclude the series or start it off if you will! As of right now it's only available in e-book format but the price is cheaper than a print book so take advantage if you're a Julie Lessman fan or are looking to read one of her books for the first time!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
There aren't too many authors whose books I'll stay up until the wee hours of the morning reading but Julie Lessman is one of those. Following her theme of "Passion with a Purpose" this November the prequel to her best-selling Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series's tells how it all got started. In spectacular form as always Lessman treats readers to a love story with characters who are passionate about life as they are about their faith and they aren't afraid to show it. A Light in the Window is one of the finest examples of self-published fiction that I've read, period.
Marcy Murphy is a young woman with her future ahead of her and she knows what she wants AND what she doesn't want! When both of Boston's most notorious rogues express their interest in Marcy you can bet they'll quickly learn she isn't going to fall at their feet. Like any good love triangle you can expect quite the back and forth between Marcy, Sam, and Patrick. If you have read Julie's other books you know how the story ends but don't expect to be bored with a "predictable" story. Nope. Nah-uh. Not in this book!
A Light in the Window is just the kind of story to warm the cockles of your heart and get you in the Christmas mood. If you're lamenting the end of this family saga like I was you will want to put this on your Christmas wishlist. It's a great way to conclude the series or start it off if you will! As of right now it's only available in e-book format but the price is cheaper than a print book so take advantage if you're a Julie Lessman fan or are looking to read one of her books for the first time!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
November 2, 2013
What a joy to read about the beginnings of the O'Connor clan! This book is a prequel to the Daughters of Boston series. It could be read as an introduction to these books, and the two parents who have such a major role and influence in their children's lives. I am glad, however, that I read it in the order that I did. I read all three Daughters of Boston books and then read the prequel.
It was just so fun to know that these two were going to get together, and even know some information about how their relationship developed through details learned in A Passion Denied. I loved seeing the change in Patrick from a rogue to a man truly in love with a wonderful girl and pursuing a relationship with God. Patrick's rogue past is referred to many times in A Passion Most Pure, but it was sure fun to see the change in him happen right before my eyes in the pages of this book!
I also enjoyed Marcy. She had some definite judgments about the two rogues who were pursuing her in this book. However, she really seemed to have her blinders on in regards to what she chose to believe about one of them! One scene in particular just made me want to shout at her, "Open your eyes! Why are you letting yourself be deceived?"
And oh...swoon...I loved the epilogue ending. The author just nailed it. It is exactly the kind of ending I crave in books! The kind that surprises me and just takes my breath away! Loved it! I look very forward to reading her next series, The Winds of Change series, which is related to these books as well.
You can read this review on my blog at http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co....
It was just so fun to know that these two were going to get together, and even know some information about how their relationship developed through details learned in A Passion Denied. I loved seeing the change in Patrick from a rogue to a man truly in love with a wonderful girl and pursuing a relationship with God. Patrick's rogue past is referred to many times in A Passion Most Pure, but it was sure fun to see the change in him happen right before my eyes in the pages of this book!
I also enjoyed Marcy. She had some definite judgments about the two rogues who were pursuing her in this book. However, she really seemed to have her blinders on in regards to what she chose to believe about one of them! One scene in particular just made me want to shout at her, "Open your eyes! Why are you letting yourself be deceived?"
And oh...swoon...I loved the epilogue ending. The author just nailed it. It is exactly the kind of ending I crave in books! The kind that surprises me and just takes my breath away! Loved it! I look very forward to reading her next series, The Winds of Change series, which is related to these books as well.
You can read this review on my blog at http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co....
January 13, 2014
After adoring the O'Conner family in the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series I was extremely excited to read this prequel about the O'Conner parents! And oh what a book it was! I loved it like I've loved every other one of Julie's books I've read. This author has such an amazing talent and once again played with my emotions. It was such fun seeing a younger Marcy and Patrick and watching their journey to love that we'd gotten hints of in the other stories. On one hand knowing how the story would end up made it easier to read and on the other hand it made it more painful. It was painful to watch all the turmoil they had to go through and watching Marcy almost end up with Sam when you knew how amazing her life was going to be with Patrick. I would get so frustrated during the scenes Marcy and Sam were together and then get a dopey grin on my face whenever she was with Patrick. I loved watching as his love for Marcy transformed Patrick into the amazing hero I knew and loved and brought him close to God. I also loved Marcy and her close relationship with God and how that kept her from making the wrong choices! Oh and I can't write this review without mention how much I loved Patrick's interaction with the kids especially Tillie. It was just so stinkin' cute! I could go on for days on how much I loved this book but I better end it so I can go reread the rest of the O'Conner saga!
April 1, 2013
Having read the six other books chronicling the O'Connor family saga (Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series) I knew how this book would end before I began it--yet I knew I'd be enthralled just the same. Julie Lessman is one of those authors who brings so much to the reader throughout the book, it doesn't matter if you can guess who gets the girl in the end. The journey is rich, the storytelling spellbinding, the truths profound and relevant for today. I found A Light in the Window to be charming and endearing, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the other books about the six children that would come out of this godly romance and marriage. Julie's tagline "Passion with a Purpose" is illustrated so beautifully in each of her novels, and this one is no exception. If you have no idea what that phrase could mean, I encourage you to pick up any Julie Lessman novel for yourself. You'll understand completely long before you turn the last page.
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
November 17, 2012
‘A Light in the Window’ is a stunningly beautiful prequel to one of the most incredibly fun, intensely romantic, relationship building, and faith-inspiring series you’ll ever read! And this prequel is no less the same!
Eighteen year old Marceline (Marcy) Murphy arrives back in Boston, Massachusetts in the summer of 1895 with her parents, and with the hope and faith her father could find work back in their home town after losing his job. It was with excitement and nerve-wracking trepidation that she was now standing on the doorstep of her treasured life-long friend… elated that she’s about to see her dearest friend Julie, but jittery as a June-bug that Julie’s brother Sam O’Rourke may be home as well! With his charm, humor, and protectiveness, Sam had always been her hero growing up, while leaving an indelible footprint on her heart. Though his wayward ways that Julie had written to her about often, left her shocked, it hadn’t completely snuffed out her teenage infatuation. Marcy largely attributed those shameful flaws in Sam to the influence of his best friend, the dangerously handsome and cocky Casanova, Patrick O’Connor. And she planned to keep her heart well away from both of them.
Untrusting of these two men, Marcy is grateful, although anything but composed, that they’ll both be working with her and Julie on a Christmas play that the girls are organizing to raise money for the St. Mary’s Parish Soup Kitchen. And when she learns that these two flirty Lothario’s are both vying after her affections, it puts her world into an even greater spin. How will this tug-of-war for Marcy’s love affect Sam and Patrick’s strong friendship? And can either of these two rogues of disreputable reputation ever be tamed and transformed from their scandalous ways? And who will finally win Marcy’s heart? Be prepared for an abundance of drama, copious tears, smiles aplenty and quite a few surprises!
The play ‘A Light in the Window’ is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family. This play becomes a beacon of light for many of the story’s wonderful characters, including some of the soup kitchen participants. These rich characters are written with so much depth and warmth, they actually feel tangible!
A Light in the Window will warm your heart, your marriage, and your faith, being filled to the brim with passion, sacrifice, grace, and compassion.
Eighteen year old Marceline (Marcy) Murphy arrives back in Boston, Massachusetts in the summer of 1895 with her parents, and with the hope and faith her father could find work back in their home town after losing his job. It was with excitement and nerve-wracking trepidation that she was now standing on the doorstep of her treasured life-long friend… elated that she’s about to see her dearest friend Julie, but jittery as a June-bug that Julie’s brother Sam O’Rourke may be home as well! With his charm, humor, and protectiveness, Sam had always been her hero growing up, while leaving an indelible footprint on her heart. Though his wayward ways that Julie had written to her about often, left her shocked, it hadn’t completely snuffed out her teenage infatuation. Marcy largely attributed those shameful flaws in Sam to the influence of his best friend, the dangerously handsome and cocky Casanova, Patrick O’Connor. And she planned to keep her heart well away from both of them.
Untrusting of these two men, Marcy is grateful, although anything but composed, that they’ll both be working with her and Julie on a Christmas play that the girls are organizing to raise money for the St. Mary’s Parish Soup Kitchen. And when she learns that these two flirty Lothario’s are both vying after her affections, it puts her world into an even greater spin. How will this tug-of-war for Marcy’s love affect Sam and Patrick’s strong friendship? And can either of these two rogues of disreputable reputation ever be tamed and transformed from their scandalous ways? And who will finally win Marcy’s heart? Be prepared for an abundance of drama, copious tears, smiles aplenty and quite a few surprises!
The play ‘A Light in the Window’ is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family. This play becomes a beacon of light for many of the story’s wonderful characters, including some of the soup kitchen participants. These rich characters are written with so much depth and warmth, they actually feel tangible!
A Light in the Window will warm your heart, your marriage, and your faith, being filled to the brim with passion, sacrifice, grace, and compassion.
November 9, 2012
Fabulous! One of Julie's VERY best!
Julie Lessman outdid herself with her soon-to-be-released novel, A Light in the Window. OH MY GOODNESS!!! I'm pretty sure she poured all of her love for the O'Connor's into this beautifully written account of one woman's desire to love God, one man's redemption, and the path God chose to take them to draw them toward His light.
It is not news that I'm a Julie Lessman fan. Have been since A Passion Redeemed (which I read out of sequence, btw...and Julie hates that ;-), and up until I read A Light in the Window, my favorite Lessman novel was A Passion Most Pure - with a clear hero toss between Collin and Luke (whew....), but this novel not only had my heart pounding from the romance and my emotions on edge from the heartbreak, but tears burning my vision from the absolute power of God's redemption and HIS love that changes us.
Or in this case, that changed Patrick O'Connor.
We've loved Marcy and Patrick through all of Julie's books. They've been the matriarch and patriarch of the O'Connor family, providing wisdom, guidance, and even some spiritual growth in their own rights throughout the six books, but to have the underpinnings of their romance told in such a lovely way brings together a family Saga I've been loathed to part with since I heard of its end.
But - the best things about books? They are always there, waiting for me to savor another taste! and let me tell you, I WILL BE reading A Light in the Window again and again.
From the purity and wistful dreams of a young Marcelene Murphy to the heart-aching love of a reformed rogue in Patrick O'Connor, the journey for God's biggest dreams in this couple's lives is a breathtaking account of prejudices, deception, friendships gained, friendship lost, and a godly love to overcome the boundaries of them all.
You will not want to miss the lovely prequel and glorious ending to the O'Connor family saga by Julie Lessman. It will not only warm your heart but kindle your spirit with a reminder of the love of an Amazing God!
Julie Lessman outdid herself with her soon-to-be-released novel, A Light in the Window. OH MY GOODNESS!!! I'm pretty sure she poured all of her love for the O'Connor's into this beautifully written account of one woman's desire to love God, one man's redemption, and the path God chose to take them to draw them toward His light.
It is not news that I'm a Julie Lessman fan. Have been since A Passion Redeemed (which I read out of sequence, btw...and Julie hates that ;-), and up until I read A Light in the Window, my favorite Lessman novel was A Passion Most Pure - with a clear hero toss between Collin and Luke (whew....), but this novel not only had my heart pounding from the romance and my emotions on edge from the heartbreak, but tears burning my vision from the absolute power of God's redemption and HIS love that changes us.
Or in this case, that changed Patrick O'Connor.
We've loved Marcy and Patrick through all of Julie's books. They've been the matriarch and patriarch of the O'Connor family, providing wisdom, guidance, and even some spiritual growth in their own rights throughout the six books, but to have the underpinnings of their romance told in such a lovely way brings together a family Saga I've been loathed to part with since I heard of its end.
But - the best things about books? They are always there, waiting for me to savor another taste! and let me tell you, I WILL BE reading A Light in the Window again and again.
From the purity and wistful dreams of a young Marcelene Murphy to the heart-aching love of a reformed rogue in Patrick O'Connor, the journey for God's biggest dreams in this couple's lives is a breathtaking account of prejudices, deception, friendships gained, friendship lost, and a godly love to overcome the boundaries of them all.
You will not want to miss the lovely prequel and glorious ending to the O'Connor family saga by Julie Lessman. It will not only warm your heart but kindle your spirit with a reminder of the love of an Amazing God!
March 7, 2015
I have read other Lessman books that I loved, but this one fell far short of her standards and was a disappointment. Character development was sorely lacking. Patrick's character was the only one that received any degree of attention. Marcy's character was just left to sag, and what was shown of her was just pretty much of a drip. Since this is a prequel to Lessman's other two book series we already know who ends up stuck with Marcy, so any drama that might have been milked out of the old and dry love triangle was just not there, but whichever guy won, he was too good for her. The book was too long for the content, with long periods when very little was happening, so that the story dragged on...and on...okay, you probably get the idea. The story contained too many trite cliches (did Congress pass a Hallmark Channel Law that says every Christmas story has to contain a girl named Holly?), too little originality, too much repetition, and way too many boring neurotic internal monologues (that were also very repetitious). Perseveration is not entertaining in novels, it is merely a symptom of organic brain damage, which maybe is meant to explain what exactly is wrong with Marcy. The story lacked a smooth, polished flow and often had awkward spots, as if she couldn't make the puzzle pieces fit and just more of less forced them together. With character, condensing, sanity, and polishing, this story would have made a good Christmas novella.
December 29, 2012
Wow! Now I'm truly sad that the O'Connor saga is entirely over =( This book was another fantastic read and it gave me a good picture of why Patrick was so upset when Sam made an appearance in a subsequent novel. I was getting a bit worried a few pages into the epilogue, however, it turned out to be something so adorable! Especially, the special story behind epilogue. I finished the book around 3:30am and I couldn't fall asleep because I was so happy and continually pondered on those final pages. A truly beautiful story that shows that anything is possible with God.
December 30, 2016
Wow, I opened this for a fun, light Christmas read, and got my first taste of Julie Lessman's signature passion-and-faith-filled romances. Though I prefer more action and adventure in novels, I found Marcy's story intriguing enough to enjoy the slower pace - two of South Boston's most notorious rogues pursue a woman who's passion is God and serving others. Patrick kept me close to this story. I loved watching him grow and change, and cheered him on with a rare enthusiasm I don't feel too often for literary heroes.
July 27, 2023
I loved reading Marcy and Patrick's story! After seeing them as such great parents in the previous books, it was lovely to read about their romance.
I loved both of them from the very beginning, and was rooting for them despite all the many obstacles they encountered. Patrick was such a swoony character and his character arc so just so good. I'm so glad they got their happily ever after.
Drama-filled and romantic, I'll definitely be re-reading this when I want to settle down with a good romance.
I loved both of them from the very beginning, and was rooting for them despite all the many obstacles they encountered. Patrick was such a swoony character and his character arc so just so good. I'm so glad they got their happily ever after.
Drama-filled and romantic, I'll definitely be re-reading this when I want to settle down with a good romance.
September 18, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Finally!! We find out how Marcy and Patrick meet. And what a story it is. Isn’t is amazing how meeting ‘the’ girl can change a guys life? Cause him to do unthinkable things he never dreamed he would do? Well that is what happened to Patrick. But life sure wasn’t easy for the poor guy. He had it rough, and it seemed like everyone was against him, even his family.
A Light In The Window is another WOW book from one of my favorite authors, Julie Lessman. With characters that we already love, it was really fun reading about the young Patrick and Marcy, their goods and bads, ins and outs of the pre-dating, through the tough times of getting to know each other. And with all of the action going on throughout the book, you can’t stop reading because you’re so eager to find out what happens with Patrick. And you will understand that when you read the book!
And I love the ‘Light In The Window’ story and the way it was used as the Christmas story. Julie Lessman weaves together friends, family, situations, church family and God and tells a story that will touch your heart and stay with you for a long time. And I love and appreciate how Julie show in her characters how God takes a life that people think is lost forever and turns it completely around, and all when we trust Him.
This is a great Christmas story that I strong encourage you to add as part of your Christmas reading enjoyment. You will not be disappointed. And if you have read the Wind of Change Series, then this book is a Must for you to read!
Author Julie Lessman provided an e-copy of this book for me to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
Finally!! We find out how Marcy and Patrick meet. And what a story it is. Isn’t is amazing how meeting ‘the’ girl can change a guys life? Cause him to do unthinkable things he never dreamed he would do? Well that is what happened to Patrick. But life sure wasn’t easy for the poor guy. He had it rough, and it seemed like everyone was against him, even his family.
A Light In The Window is another WOW book from one of my favorite authors, Julie Lessman. With characters that we already love, it was really fun reading about the young Patrick and Marcy, their goods and bads, ins and outs of the pre-dating, through the tough times of getting to know each other. And with all of the action going on throughout the book, you can’t stop reading because you’re so eager to find out what happens with Patrick. And you will understand that when you read the book!
And I love the ‘Light In The Window’ story and the way it was used as the Christmas story. Julie Lessman weaves together friends, family, situations, church family and God and tells a story that will touch your heart and stay with you for a long time. And I love and appreciate how Julie show in her characters how God takes a life that people think is lost forever and turns it completely around, and all when we trust Him.
This is a great Christmas story that I strong encourage you to add as part of your Christmas reading enjoyment. You will not be disappointed. And if you have read the Wind of Change Series, then this book is a Must for you to read!
Author Julie Lessman provided an e-copy of this book for me to read and review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
November 6, 2012
My reading began with high anticipation as eighteen year old Marceline (Marcy) Murphy stood on the front porch of the O’Rourke home nervously preparing to ring the doorbell. Five long years had passed since Marcy and her family had left Boston for New York where her father had taken a new job as a vice president for Reading Railroad, and subsequently lost due to the worldwide economic depression in 1893, costing him and thousands their jobs. Marcy’s family returned to Boston in hopes of new beginning. How could she predict what heartache lay ahead? She and her family would need to lean on their faith in God to see them through.
Marcy’s best friend Julie (Jewels) O’Rourke lived behind those doors with her large family and the memory of Julie’s older brother Sam made her hands clammy. Hmm, I thought as I read. Sweet memories of Sam? Wasn’t her love interest……? Marcy’s thought leads us into the story, “A Light in the Window” and promptly caught my attention. I still puzzled over Marcy’s romantic thoughts about Sam when she…..oh never mind…just keep on reading.
Among the many fans of Julie’s writing, I had been waiting for her story about the young couple who started this saga of the O’Connor family. Having read all of the previous books in Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change; both series about the O’Connor children, my curiosity about the couple that sired them didn't end. Finally, Julie Lessman is telling how it all began. This had to be good!
As I continued reading, Jewels opened the O’Rourke front door to an anxious grown up Marcy and enthusiastically noticed the beauty her best friend had become. Jewels commented that Marcy would certainly turn heads during their senior year, especially her brother Sam’s.
The best friends begin to reminisce, giggling and talking about the old crowd…mentioning Sam and his best friend Patrick often. Marcy grimaced at the recalling of what she already knew about Patrick – considering him the rogue of all rogues and thinking him to be the cause of Sam’s unruly shenanigans. She kept her opinion of Patrick to herself because Jewels had a wild crush on him, as did other girls. Their conversation brought up the St. Mary’s church Christmas play fund raiser for the soup kitchen, and Marcy eagerly told Jewels that she had already talked to Sister Francine and got the job to spearhead the fundraiser. She also volunteered Jewels to be the pianist and her assistant in directing the play performance. Marcy was pleased with her selection of the play. It was something old she found that was significant regarding a true Irish tradition at Christmas. At this point, she had no idea of the real meaning that would evolve into her life forever.
Marcy believed that a solid marriage needed commitment and faith in God. It was her heart’s desire to have such a marriage. She recently developed mistrust toward the opposite sex from traumatic revelations of adultery and unfaithfulness before returning to Boston. She thinks she knows Sam and has hope that he will be the love of her life, even though she is aware of his oat sowing. She feels her prayers can change him. Marcy is an only child and looks to the O’Rourke’s as being the ideal family and wants desperately to be a part of them. She considers Patrick a devious rogue and rover, causing her mixed emotions as she gets to know him. What Marcy eventually comes to learn of her parents and family surprises her.
Patrick has been disliked and misunderstood by his father all his life. His father, a hypocrite controls his family through physical, emotional, and verbal abuse. Despite his upbringing, Patrick is a young man with refined values that are not fully developed yet, until he sees Marcy again for the first time after five years. He questions himself and begins to seek the real meaning of his life with the desire to be better.
The scene with Sam and Patrick hiding in a confessional at St Mary’s drinking the sacristy wine from the bottle and smoking shows the audaciousness of youth in a humorous and predictable way. Of course, they get caught! Father Fitzgibbons is not shocked and handles the situation thoughtfully while assigning a consequence to the boys that leads into the gist of the story and from thereon we are hooked.
Julie Lessman’s writing is always a great mix of high emotion, clashes of right and wrong, forgiveness, past and present hurts, secrets, guilt, shame, fun, humor, family stresses, life decisions, love and lust – the good, the bad and the ugly, dishonesty, thievery, hypocrisy, dreams and always God’s love and the human struggle to entrust their hearts Him. Her script is divinely developed around the evidence that she has researched the time period extensively as to history, fashions in style, education, religion, morals, courting, and human behavior which is primarily the same from generation to generation. She writes such beautiful and easily comprehended word pictures that are vivid to the imagination throughout her story. Ms. Lessman has no qualms at expressing belief in the plans that God has for each individual.
The characters are all mostly lovable, with a couple of deterrents there, yet each one is unique and vital to the story. You will meet the children that perform in the play and learn their life struggles. Julie Lessman has no lack of imagination in creating the right character(s) for every situation. The surprising compassion and involvement of one character in the youngster’s lives is heartwarming and tender. It brings a bit of a tear to the eye.
Here is where I will leave my review of Julie Lessman’s book. As always, after I have finished reading a Julie Lessman novel, I discover I have learned much from her words in relation to my own life. Some of my personal damaged emotions begin to heal and my faith in God has rooted deeper. Recently I told Julie “Your talent overwhelms me….how do you do that?” She answered, “LOL ... my so-called "talent" overwhelms me too, and I have NO earthly idea how I do it except by the grace of God - just like you!! :)” There, by the grace of God, we write.
Marcy’s best friend Julie (Jewels) O’Rourke lived behind those doors with her large family and the memory of Julie’s older brother Sam made her hands clammy. Hmm, I thought as I read. Sweet memories of Sam? Wasn’t her love interest……? Marcy’s thought leads us into the story, “A Light in the Window” and promptly caught my attention. I still puzzled over Marcy’s romantic thoughts about Sam when she…..oh never mind…just keep on reading.
Among the many fans of Julie’s writing, I had been waiting for her story about the young couple who started this saga of the O’Connor family. Having read all of the previous books in Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change; both series about the O’Connor children, my curiosity about the couple that sired them didn't end. Finally, Julie Lessman is telling how it all began. This had to be good!
As I continued reading, Jewels opened the O’Rourke front door to an anxious grown up Marcy and enthusiastically noticed the beauty her best friend had become. Jewels commented that Marcy would certainly turn heads during their senior year, especially her brother Sam’s.
The best friends begin to reminisce, giggling and talking about the old crowd…mentioning Sam and his best friend Patrick often. Marcy grimaced at the recalling of what she already knew about Patrick – considering him the rogue of all rogues and thinking him to be the cause of Sam’s unruly shenanigans. She kept her opinion of Patrick to herself because Jewels had a wild crush on him, as did other girls. Their conversation brought up the St. Mary’s church Christmas play fund raiser for the soup kitchen, and Marcy eagerly told Jewels that she had already talked to Sister Francine and got the job to spearhead the fundraiser. She also volunteered Jewels to be the pianist and her assistant in directing the play performance. Marcy was pleased with her selection of the play. It was something old she found that was significant regarding a true Irish tradition at Christmas. At this point, she had no idea of the real meaning that would evolve into her life forever.
Marcy believed that a solid marriage needed commitment and faith in God. It was her heart’s desire to have such a marriage. She recently developed mistrust toward the opposite sex from traumatic revelations of adultery and unfaithfulness before returning to Boston. She thinks she knows Sam and has hope that he will be the love of her life, even though she is aware of his oat sowing. She feels her prayers can change him. Marcy is an only child and looks to the O’Rourke’s as being the ideal family and wants desperately to be a part of them. She considers Patrick a devious rogue and rover, causing her mixed emotions as she gets to know him. What Marcy eventually comes to learn of her parents and family surprises her.
Patrick has been disliked and misunderstood by his father all his life. His father, a hypocrite controls his family through physical, emotional, and verbal abuse. Despite his upbringing, Patrick is a young man with refined values that are not fully developed yet, until he sees Marcy again for the first time after five years. He questions himself and begins to seek the real meaning of his life with the desire to be better.
The scene with Sam and Patrick hiding in a confessional at St Mary’s drinking the sacristy wine from the bottle and smoking shows the audaciousness of youth in a humorous and predictable way. Of course, they get caught! Father Fitzgibbons is not shocked and handles the situation thoughtfully while assigning a consequence to the boys that leads into the gist of the story and from thereon we are hooked.
Julie Lessman’s writing is always a great mix of high emotion, clashes of right and wrong, forgiveness, past and present hurts, secrets, guilt, shame, fun, humor, family stresses, life decisions, love and lust – the good, the bad and the ugly, dishonesty, thievery, hypocrisy, dreams and always God’s love and the human struggle to entrust their hearts Him. Her script is divinely developed around the evidence that she has researched the time period extensively as to history, fashions in style, education, religion, morals, courting, and human behavior which is primarily the same from generation to generation. She writes such beautiful and easily comprehended word pictures that are vivid to the imagination throughout her story. Ms. Lessman has no qualms at expressing belief in the plans that God has for each individual.
The characters are all mostly lovable, with a couple of deterrents there, yet each one is unique and vital to the story. You will meet the children that perform in the play and learn their life struggles. Julie Lessman has no lack of imagination in creating the right character(s) for every situation. The surprising compassion and involvement of one character in the youngster’s lives is heartwarming and tender. It brings a bit of a tear to the eye.
Here is where I will leave my review of Julie Lessman’s book. As always, after I have finished reading a Julie Lessman novel, I discover I have learned much from her words in relation to my own life. Some of my personal damaged emotions begin to heal and my faith in God has rooted deeper. Recently I told Julie “Your talent overwhelms me….how do you do that?” She answered, “LOL ... my so-called "talent" overwhelms me too, and I have NO earthly idea how I do it except by the grace of God - just like you!! :)” There, by the grace of God, we write.
August 22, 2025
I enjoy Julie Lessman‘s novels because you start the book knowing that somehow this couple is going to end up happily ever after, but you have no idea how they’re going to get there with all of the relationship’s dramatic twists and turns. I also appreciate that these are very firmly Christian books and you follow the faith development of the characters as the stories progress. High drama, high passion, but it remains PG, and the reader comes away with spiritual lessons that they can apply to their own life and relationships.
In this prequel I enjoyed learning about the origin of the O’Connor clan after reading the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series a few years ago (that chronicle the lives and loves of the six O’Connor children).
I did skim through the epilogue because it got a little too kissy-kissy for me (after the couple married), but I wouldn’t say it ever crossed the line into scintillating or tawdry. Just a bit more than I prefer to read about.
In this prequel I enjoyed learning about the origin of the O’Connor clan after reading the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series a few years ago (that chronicle the lives and loves of the six O’Connor children).
I did skim through the epilogue because it got a little too kissy-kissy for me (after the couple married), but I wouldn’t say it ever crossed the line into scintillating or tawdry. Just a bit more than I prefer to read about.
July 8, 2016
My rating is 4.5 Stars
After having read the Daughters of Boston series (A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed and A Passion Denied), I decided to go back and re-read this one and I highly recommend that the books be read in this order. It just makes more sense that way. Recently my taste in books has changed and the stories I read have new meaning for me. Certain elements in this story that bothered me the first time didn’t bother me now. I can now see with new appreciation the growth and purpose that each of the main characters had to experience to fulfill God’s calling in their lives.
Marceline “Marcy” has just returned home after being away for 5 years. Her first stop is to see her best friend, Julie, and Julie’s beloved family. Marcy used to have a crush on Julie’s brother, Sam, but that has changed since Julie revealed Sam’s reputation in letters she exchanged with Marcy during the years they spent apart. Marcy still shivers at the thought of Sam, but she is unable to love any man unless he shares her faith in Christ.
Sam is best friends with Patrick and they have developed a reputation for being rogues; drinking, flirting with women, even dating more than one woman at the same time. They both have full-time jobs they work hard at, but on their off time they are known as heartbreakers. When Marcy comes back to town, Patrick notices her first and falls head over heels at the sight of her. Little does he know that in this story, he has met his wife-to-be. However, Sam decides he also wants a chance to win Marcy over…..will they be able to overcome this or will their friendship meet its doom?
Fave character is Father Fitz *for sure*; other parts of the story that will grab your attention include a precocious little girl who gets beaten by her mom’s boyfriend; unexpected death in someone’s family; an ultimatum for Marcy that requires patience and prayer; also love the mention of the character’s names of Cassandra and Carrie Pagels; a noble sacrifice Patrick makes; and the difference one community makes to shine God’s light at Christmas. There is great tension and passion here, but it makes perfect sense that this is how Marcy and Patrick’s life begins….as well as bringing hope to all readers that God’s plan for your life far exceeds our own plans. I now understand why Marcy wants a big family and it did my heart good to see her destiny unfold.
Never settle for less than God’s standards in any area of life and always trust God with your heart in prayer and faith. These are just a few of the precious lessons brilliantly illustrated in the story without being preachy. Even though this is a Christmas story, it can be enjoyed all year round and it was such a delight for me to read after finishing the Daughters of Boston series! God uses Marcy’s heart to convict Patrick of his rogue ways. Patrick becomes an even BETTER husband and father because of his past experiences, he’s able to better appreciate God’s love in ways he could only imagine. A Light in the Window is definitely an ebook to fall in love with and one I’m delighted to have read twice now!
Please see the sidebar on my blog or Julie Lessman’s blog to find out about her new contest with Becky Wade that starts July 22, Fall In Love….Texas Style!!
After having read the Daughters of Boston series (A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed and A Passion Denied), I decided to go back and re-read this one and I highly recommend that the books be read in this order. It just makes more sense that way. Recently my taste in books has changed and the stories I read have new meaning for me. Certain elements in this story that bothered me the first time didn’t bother me now. I can now see with new appreciation the growth and purpose that each of the main characters had to experience to fulfill God’s calling in their lives.
Marceline “Marcy” has just returned home after being away for 5 years. Her first stop is to see her best friend, Julie, and Julie’s beloved family. Marcy used to have a crush on Julie’s brother, Sam, but that has changed since Julie revealed Sam’s reputation in letters she exchanged with Marcy during the years they spent apart. Marcy still shivers at the thought of Sam, but she is unable to love any man unless he shares her faith in Christ.
Sam is best friends with Patrick and they have developed a reputation for being rogues; drinking, flirting with women, even dating more than one woman at the same time. They both have full-time jobs they work hard at, but on their off time they are known as heartbreakers. When Marcy comes back to town, Patrick notices her first and falls head over heels at the sight of her. Little does he know that in this story, he has met his wife-to-be. However, Sam decides he also wants a chance to win Marcy over…..will they be able to overcome this or will their friendship meet its doom?
Fave character is Father Fitz *for sure*; other parts of the story that will grab your attention include a precocious little girl who gets beaten by her mom’s boyfriend; unexpected death in someone’s family; an ultimatum for Marcy that requires patience and prayer; also love the mention of the character’s names of Cassandra and Carrie Pagels; a noble sacrifice Patrick makes; and the difference one community makes to shine God’s light at Christmas. There is great tension and passion here, but it makes perfect sense that this is how Marcy and Patrick’s life begins….as well as bringing hope to all readers that God’s plan for your life far exceeds our own plans. I now understand why Marcy wants a big family and it did my heart good to see her destiny unfold.
Never settle for less than God’s standards in any area of life and always trust God with your heart in prayer and faith. These are just a few of the precious lessons brilliantly illustrated in the story without being preachy. Even though this is a Christmas story, it can be enjoyed all year round and it was such a delight for me to read after finishing the Daughters of Boston series! God uses Marcy’s heart to convict Patrick of his rogue ways. Patrick becomes an even BETTER husband and father because of his past experiences, he’s able to better appreciate God’s love in ways he could only imagine. A Light in the Window is definitely an ebook to fall in love with and one I’m delighted to have read twice now!
Please see the sidebar on my blog or Julie Lessman’s blog to find out about her new contest with Becky Wade that starts July 22, Fall In Love….Texas Style!!
November 8, 2014
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(from Amazon.com)
One Woman. Two Men.
One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.
But who will win her heart?
Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues. But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her, she encounters a tug-of-war of the heart she isn't expecting. Sam O'Rourke is the childhood hero she's pined for, the brother of her best friend and a member of the large, boisterous family to which she longs to be a part. So when his best friend Patrick O'Connor joins in pursuit of her affections, the choice seems all too clear. Sam is from a family of faith and Patrick is not, two rogues whose wild ways clash head-on with Marcy's--both in her faith and in her heart.
While overseeing the Christmas play fundraiser for the St. Mary's parish soup kitchen--A Light in the Window--Marcy not only wrestles with her attraction to both men, but with her concern for their spiritual welfare. The play is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family, and for Marcy, its message becomes deeply personal. Her grandmother Mima cautions her to guard her heart for the type of man who will respond to the "light in the window," meaning the message of Christ in her heart. But when disaster strikes during the play, Marcy is destined to discover the truth of the play's message first-hand when it becomes clear that although two men have professed their undying love, only one has truly responded to "the light in the window."
MY REVIEW
Although I have had this book and some others by Julie for quite sometime with good intentions of reading them, I must say that it took me entirely too long to get around to it. That's what happens when your TBR pile is too high and continues to grow.
I found this story very enjoyable even though I was screaming (in my mind) at Marcy a lot. The sad part is that what Marcy was doing happens all to often in real life. We know we shouldn't judge people because of their past, their family, etc. but we do just that and don't even realize we are doing it. Oh if we could only see the full picture as we do when reading a story life would be so much better. There is a lesson to be learned here, practice what the Bible tells us to do, don't just expect others to practice it and remember that not one of us is perfect so be willing to forgive others and accept that we all can change no matter what our past is.
(from Amazon.com)
One Woman. Two Men.
One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.
But who will win her heart?
Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues. But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her, she encounters a tug-of-war of the heart she isn't expecting. Sam O'Rourke is the childhood hero she's pined for, the brother of her best friend and a member of the large, boisterous family to which she longs to be a part. So when his best friend Patrick O'Connor joins in pursuit of her affections, the choice seems all too clear. Sam is from a family of faith and Patrick is not, two rogues whose wild ways clash head-on with Marcy's--both in her faith and in her heart.
While overseeing the Christmas play fundraiser for the St. Mary's parish soup kitchen--A Light in the Window--Marcy not only wrestles with her attraction to both men, but with her concern for their spiritual welfare. The play is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family, and for Marcy, its message becomes deeply personal. Her grandmother Mima cautions her to guard her heart for the type of man who will respond to the "light in the window," meaning the message of Christ in her heart. But when disaster strikes during the play, Marcy is destined to discover the truth of the play's message first-hand when it becomes clear that although two men have professed their undying love, only one has truly responded to "the light in the window."
MY REVIEW
Although I have had this book and some others by Julie for quite sometime with good intentions of reading them, I must say that it took me entirely too long to get around to it. That's what happens when your TBR pile is too high and continues to grow.
I found this story very enjoyable even though I was screaming (in my mind) at Marcy a lot. The sad part is that what Marcy was doing happens all to often in real life. We know we shouldn't judge people because of their past, their family, etc. but we do just that and don't even realize we are doing it. Oh if we could only see the full picture as we do when reading a story life would be so much better. There is a lesson to be learned here, practice what the Bible tells us to do, don't just expect others to practice it and remember that not one of us is perfect so be willing to forgive others and accept that we all can change no matter what our past is.
November 6, 2012
New England at Christmastime invites a special romance all its own, and this story set in turn of the century Boston captures the imagination and the heart. Characters that fill a literal stage with warmth and endearment, Marceline Murphy and Julie O’Rourke are best friends reunited after several years apart. Right away Julie fills Marcy in on gossip about her brother Sam—Marcy’s schoolgirl crush, and Sam’s handsome and charming best friend Patrick O’Connor. The two are rogues, Southie’s delightful Lotharios. And Marcy vows to stay clear of trouble, until the street-smart and saintly wise Father Fitzgibbons throws them all together as volunteers for the Christmas play.
Spending time with both of the devilishly charming young men causes Marcy to second-guess her resolve to avoid romance. Both Sam and Patrick vie for her attention and Marcy wants to believe more than anything that Julie’s brother has turned over a new leaf. She dreams of marrying into her best friend’s big, welcoming family and needs little encouragement to fall head over heels for Sam’s flattery. But she can’t quite put Patrick’s devastating good looks and good-hearted gestures from her mind. Two men claim to love her, but only one can possess her heart.
Set amidst a wonderfully realistic parish of Irish families with charitable outreaches and plot twists, secrets, betrayal, and redemption, this story kept drawing me in with each turn of the page. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen not only to the main characters, but also to a cast as rich and warm as Julie Lessman’s writing is imaginative and lively. From little waifs with precocious tongues to grandmothers who bake oven-fresh treats, Ms. Lessman crafts each of her many unique and memorable characters until they become family. But at the center is a hero as unselfish and deserving as ever a Christmas story depicted since that very first hero born in a manger for the sins of the world.
I have seldom read a book that exudes all the love, family tradition, and heart-stirring affection that embodies Christmas itself as A Light in the Window beams. This wonderful Christmas romance will warm your holiday season and will stand as a classic for many years to come.
Spending time with both of the devilishly charming young men causes Marcy to second-guess her resolve to avoid romance. Both Sam and Patrick vie for her attention and Marcy wants to believe more than anything that Julie’s brother has turned over a new leaf. She dreams of marrying into her best friend’s big, welcoming family and needs little encouragement to fall head over heels for Sam’s flattery. But she can’t quite put Patrick’s devastating good looks and good-hearted gestures from her mind. Two men claim to love her, but only one can possess her heart.
Set amidst a wonderfully realistic parish of Irish families with charitable outreaches and plot twists, secrets, betrayal, and redemption, this story kept drawing me in with each turn of the page. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen not only to the main characters, but also to a cast as rich and warm as Julie Lessman’s writing is imaginative and lively. From little waifs with precocious tongues to grandmothers who bake oven-fresh treats, Ms. Lessman crafts each of her many unique and memorable characters until they become family. But at the center is a hero as unselfish and deserving as ever a Christmas story depicted since that very first hero born in a manger for the sins of the world.
I have seldom read a book that exudes all the love, family tradition, and heart-stirring affection that embodies Christmas itself as A Light in the Window beams. This wonderful Christmas romance will warm your holiday season and will stand as a classic for many years to come.
November 3, 2012
I LOVE Julie Lessman's novels and was super excited when I was given the opportunity to read this one before it was released. However, while I liked this one, I wasn't as enthralled with it as I was with her other books. In fact, I was kind of disappointed with it - which I hate to say, but it's the truth. This is her shortest book, to date, but it took me the longest to read! I kept putting it down, mostly because Marcy was getting on my nerves. Don't get me wrong, the story was still good, but knowing Marcy as the mother from Lessman's other books, I felt her behavior was quite strange in this book. I know she was a lot younger and everything, but she was so biased against one person and hardheaded too! She refused to think differently about him and consistently thought the worst of him. While with another person, who had the same reputation, she behaved the exact opposite.
Another part that was annoying was the ending. It was very confusing and WAY TOO ABRUPT!!! After reading A Passion Denied, I was looking forward to reading about a certain event, but that wasn't even in the book!!! I think it should have been, and was very disappointed that it wasn't. However, I can understand, in a way, it not being in the book for those who haven't read her other books and will read this one first. Then again, reading this book made the whole scene in that book seem really strange - if you've read that book, I'm sure you know to which scene I'm referring.
I loved the whole Christmas play theme and the way the men got involved in helping with it was both funny and ironic. I think I would have enjoyed the story more had it been available to read first, especially since this is the prequel to the other ones and I knew what the ultimate outcome was going to be. Even though I was disappointed with it, I'm glad I read it and any fan of Lessman's books will definitely want to read this one too, but may feel the same way I did.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
Another part that was annoying was the ending. It was very confusing and WAY TOO ABRUPT!!! After reading A Passion Denied, I was looking forward to reading about a certain event, but that wasn't even in the book!!! I think it should have been, and was very disappointed that it wasn't. However, I can understand, in a way, it not being in the book for those who haven't read her other books and will read this one first. Then again, reading this book made the whole scene in that book seem really strange - if you've read that book, I'm sure you know to which scene I'm referring.
I loved the whole Christmas play theme and the way the men got involved in helping with it was both funny and ironic. I think I would have enjoyed the story more had it been available to read first, especially since this is the prequel to the other ones and I knew what the ultimate outcome was going to be. Even though I was disappointed with it, I'm glad I read it and any fan of Lessman's books will definitely want to read this one too, but may feel the same way I did.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
September 5, 2013
This is a bittersweet moment for me. Sweet because this book was absolutely fantastic and filled my heart to it's content, but sad because my journey with the O'Connors is now over...
JULIE!!! You NEED to write MORE!!! Can you write a story about Gabe??? That would be amazing!
Even though I knew that Marcy and *Blank* were going to end up together, this story was still great! The love triangle was intense and the thought that kept going through my mind was, "When is it going to end?" Lol, I had some strong emotions going on when reading this.
*Blanks* transformation was extremely touching. It really did give me hope for people in real life who would be known as the 'Rouges' or black sheep of the family. With a Godly influence, anyone can come to Christ in time. Sure, it's not likely, but very possible.
I also like how I saw Marcy's change of mind. She learned how not to judge someone from the first impression and/or past reputation, but to look into someones heart to see what really lies there. It took her awhile, but she got the hang of it.
There is nothing that I can pick apart about this story, I loved everything about it!
Again, this was another story by Julie Lessman that combined a passion between the main characters with a focus on God flawlessly. Thank you so much Julie for this terrific ride with the O'Connor family, it will be a story I won't forget!
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
JULIE!!! You NEED to write MORE!!! Can you write a story about Gabe??? That would be amazing!
Even though I knew that Marcy and *Blank* were going to end up together, this story was still great! The love triangle was intense and the thought that kept going through my mind was, "When is it going to end?" Lol, I had some strong emotions going on when reading this.
*Blanks* transformation was extremely touching. It really did give me hope for people in real life who would be known as the 'Rouges' or black sheep of the family. With a Godly influence, anyone can come to Christ in time. Sure, it's not likely, but very possible.
I also like how I saw Marcy's change of mind. She learned how not to judge someone from the first impression and/or past reputation, but to look into someones heart to see what really lies there. It took her awhile, but she got the hang of it.
There is nothing that I can pick apart about this story, I loved everything about it!
Again, this was another story by Julie Lessman that combined a passion between the main characters with a focus on God flawlessly. Thank you so much Julie for this terrific ride with the O'Connor family, it will be a story I won't forget!
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
October 23, 2012
A Light in the Window was a great read! I loved getting to read Marcy's story and even though I knew who she ended up with (having read the Daughters of Boston series and A Love Surrendered), it was still a thrilling ride!
I really liked how A Light in the Window didn't seem as "passionate" as other Julie Lessman books I've read, I'm not a huge fan of a lot of kissing/passion in books and I'm glad there wasn't that much of it in this book. :)
It was kind of weird reading A Light In The Window, at times, because I knew what a great guy someone was and I just couldn't stand how Marcy was acting towards him... :|
A Light in the Window was well written and I really enjoyed reading it! While I would have liked a little more details about things that had happened towards the end of the book, it was still a great ending that brought a smile to my face. :)
If you enjoy historical romances, then I think you will enjoy A Light in the Window! You don't need to have read the "Daughters of Boston" or "Winds of Change" series first.
*I received a copy of this book from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
I really liked how A Light in the Window didn't seem as "passionate" as other Julie Lessman books I've read, I'm not a huge fan of a lot of kissing/passion in books and I'm glad there wasn't that much of it in this book. :)
It was kind of weird reading A Light In The Window, at times, because I knew what a great guy someone was and I just couldn't stand how Marcy was acting towards him... :|
A Light in the Window was well written and I really enjoyed reading it! While I would have liked a little more details about things that had happened towards the end of the book, it was still a great ending that brought a smile to my face. :)
If you enjoy historical romances, then I think you will enjoy A Light in the Window! You don't need to have read the "Daughters of Boston" or "Winds of Change" series first.
*I received a copy of this book from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
October 23, 2012
I have read the first two books in Julie Lessman's, Winds of Change series, and loved each one. So when Julie emailed me to see if I would consider reading her recent creation and spotlight it on my blog, I never once hesitated!! Julie's books are what I like to call 'gentle reads' and what she describes as inspirational romance. Yes, she writes about faith, God, and the Bible, but never in that preachy or over-the-top manner. She writes realistic characters who face dilemmas that normal people encounter every day. I loved Marcy and Patrick's story. I truly enjoy stories about second chances and the power of forgiveness! It made me smile and laugh, and when I finished the last page I immediately wanted to read The Daughters of Boston series!
Disclaimer: Thank you to Julie for sending me a review copy. I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
Review Book #31
© 2012, Staci of Life in the Thumb. All Rights Reserved. If you reading this on a site other than, Life in the Thumb or Staci's feed, be aware that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Julie for sending me a review copy. I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
Review Book #31
© 2012, Staci of Life in the Thumb. All Rights Reserved. If you reading this on a site other than, Life in the Thumb or Staci's feed, be aware that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews