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The Isaac Project
With commitment their only foundation, and love constantly thwarted, can an arranged marriage find happiness in the twenty-first century? Becky Sawyer’s life unravels in a single day. Not only does she catch her boyfriend, the man she hoped to marry, lip-locked with another woman, she also receives the gut-wrenching news that her grandfather, the man who raised her, is dying. His last wish? To see her happily married. Heartbroken, Becky seeks inspiration in the pages of the Holy Scriptures. And finds it in the story of Isaac and Rebekah. If love couldn't keep his parents together, Luke Masterson wonders what will make a marriage last. He decides to steer clear of all women—especially crazy ones like Becky Sawyer, who employs a friend to find her a husband. But when he feels the dogged promptings of the Holy Spirit to move across the country and marry a complete stranger, it seems love has little to do with it anyway.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2015
About the author
Sarah Monzon
25 books545 followersA Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
September 1, 2015
"The Isaac Project" is an incredibly charming contemporary romance between a woman at the end of her rope and a man who makes a life-changing choice.
Luke… I must confess. I have a bit of a book crush on Luke. Once he sets his mind to something, he doesn’t let anything get in his way! Even before he realizes his feelings for Becky, he is determined to woo her. His exquisite yet manly tenderness with her is palpable and brought tears to my eyes more than once. I thought that the times he was working things out with God, especially before he agreed to the marriage, were very realistic. Sarah also does a fantastic job of channeling a “guy voice” for his thoughts and perspective. Cracked me up several times at how much like a guy he sounded, something that’s missing sometimes in chick books.
And Becky. My heart ached for Becky. I’ve been her, emotionally, and even though I wanted to reach into the book and shake some sense into her more than a couple of times… I got it. It was a privilege to watch her character blossom and blush and flourish under Luke’s care while still maintaining the strong qualities that made her “her”. The strength in her spirit serves her well in the end, and I was so thankful that Sarah didn’t take that away from Becky as the character matured throughout the book.
Bottom Line: These characters got to me & this book touched my heart. The dual first person narrative adds a wonderful depth of personality and makes for a delightful perspective to the character’s thoughts. Especially Luke’s. *dreamy sigh* (You had to know that was coming!) In addition a unique premise, a solid plot, and a charming writing voice combine with a dash of suspense to ensure a truly enjoyable experience for readers. Sarah Monzon is a fun new voice in contemporary Christian fiction, and I for one look forward to more from her in the future! If you love reading books by Katie Ganshert, Varina Denman, and Becky Wade… you will love The Isaac Project too!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for only my honest review.)
Luke… I must confess. I have a bit of a book crush on Luke. Once he sets his mind to something, he doesn’t let anything get in his way! Even before he realizes his feelings for Becky, he is determined to woo her. His exquisite yet manly tenderness with her is palpable and brought tears to my eyes more than once. I thought that the times he was working things out with God, especially before he agreed to the marriage, were very realistic. Sarah also does a fantastic job of channeling a “guy voice” for his thoughts and perspective. Cracked me up several times at how much like a guy he sounded, something that’s missing sometimes in chick books.
And Becky. My heart ached for Becky. I’ve been her, emotionally, and even though I wanted to reach into the book and shake some sense into her more than a couple of times… I got it. It was a privilege to watch her character blossom and blush and flourish under Luke’s care while still maintaining the strong qualities that made her “her”. The strength in her spirit serves her well in the end, and I was so thankful that Sarah didn’t take that away from Becky as the character matured throughout the book.
Bottom Line: These characters got to me & this book touched my heart. The dual first person narrative adds a wonderful depth of personality and makes for a delightful perspective to the character’s thoughts. Especially Luke’s. *dreamy sigh* (You had to know that was coming!) In addition a unique premise, a solid plot, and a charming writing voice combine with a dash of suspense to ensure a truly enjoyable experience for readers. Sarah Monzon is a fun new voice in contemporary Christian fiction, and I for one look forward to more from her in the future! If you love reading books by Katie Ganshert, Varina Denman, and Becky Wade… you will love The Isaac Project too!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for only my honest review.)
September 1, 2016
Earlier this week I was scanning my Kindle for a contemporary book to read and I came across The Isaac Project, which I purchased a little while back. It was exactly what I was looking for!
This story really had it all for me. It was a contemporary romance that was actually built on the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible. The author did such a great job of writing a modern day marriage of convenience story in a way that seemed realistic. It was written in first person and after reading just a few pages I realized that I really liked that perspective for this story. It was great to read both Becky and Luke’s thoughts directly from them!
I liked both Becky and Luke, but especially Luke! He was so steadfast and determined to be a good, loving husband. I thought that the way he approached building a life with Becky to be very solidly based on trust in God’s plan. His goal of showing his wife that he loved her by they way he cared for her was so special. Becky was scared and unsure for most of the story and consequently made some mistakes and felt insecure at various points. It could be easy to be frustrated with Becky, however, she learned what she needed to learn as the story progressed.
I loved this book and from start to finish. It was so fun to read! And that cover makes me so happy every time I look at it! I know I will be re-reading The Isaac Project many times.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This story really had it all for me. It was a contemporary romance that was actually built on the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible. The author did such a great job of writing a modern day marriage of convenience story in a way that seemed realistic. It was written in first person and after reading just a few pages I realized that I really liked that perspective for this story. It was great to read both Becky and Luke’s thoughts directly from them!
I liked both Becky and Luke, but especially Luke! He was so steadfast and determined to be a good, loving husband. I thought that the way he approached building a life with Becky to be very solidly based on trust in God’s plan. His goal of showing his wife that he loved her by they way he cared for her was so special. Becky was scared and unsure for most of the story and consequently made some mistakes and felt insecure at various points. It could be easy to be frustrated with Becky, however, she learned what she needed to learn as the story progressed.
I loved this book and from start to finish. It was so fun to read! And that cover makes me so happy every time I look at it! I know I will be re-reading The Isaac Project many times.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 16, 2016
This was my first book by this author and all I have to say is..."wow". This book was absolutely incredible. I loved the modern twist on mail order brides and how she incorporated the story of Isaac and Rachael. This book was both sad and funny. I found found myself on the brink of tears reading this book, tears from sadness and tears of laughing too much for too long. Although I was somewhat lost at the beginning the author quickly filled me in. I loved how realistic the characters were, I felt the author didn't just make up this perfect dream guy and girl. I would highly recommend this book, especially to those who like the mail order bride books.
June 19, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing for Luke is spot on. I could really sense the man's perspective. I wanted to shake Becky a couple of times. I understand where she was coming from and all she was dealing with but I kept thinking "this was your idea"! But that is how life is sometimes. The epilogue (so sweet) was a pleasant surprise, and just the icing on the cake. This one is definitely a "fairy tale" story but believable enough to love. Cute and sweet!
July 1, 2016
This debut novel is a modern day retelling of the story of Rebekah and Isaac. While it had some cute moments, I had a hard time believing in an arranged marriage taking place in the given circumstances.
August 10, 2015
My thoughts:
Becky and Luke. Sigh.
These two are a match made in heaven. Literally. When we first meet Becky, she’s joyful, optimistic, and in love. That doesn’t last long. At all. And it’s when her boyfriend is caught cheating on her that her insecurities—ones that I think a lot of us women can relate to—really come out. Through heartache, misunderstanding, and pride—yep, that nasty thing—Becky has such a beautiful character arc and growth that results in breaking down that wall of pride. There were a few times I wanted to throttle her, but more because I’ve been where she is and I know how it turns out. Thankfully, by the end of the book, so does she.
Luke. Well, I have a crush on him. Gotta be honest. He really opens himself up to God’s direction, and while he has hesitations, he trusts in the Lord and makes a commitment he’s determined to stand by. His arc isn’t as focused upon, though we’re often in his point of view and it’s a beautiful thing. He has his own faults, but they don’t play as large a part in this story as Becky’s does. Luke’s story more surrounds his attempt to show his wife love—even before he realizes he loves her. He’s a pretty swoon-worthy man, I tell you.
Sarah Monzon has done an incredible job in her debut novel! She has excellent tension between two loveable characters, Luke and Becky, has protagonists (which don’t always need to be people) that move the story along at a good pace, and a well-developed plot. While the premise seems a little far-fetched in this day and age at first thought, when you read the book, it actually isn’t that far-fetched at all (and it’s something my husband and I have often talked about with regards to our own kids…LOL!). More than anything, it highlights that marriage isn’t about the feeling of love, but the commitment of love, something that will hold a marriage together through thick and thin.
I highly recommend reading this book. At first, you may need to suspend some belief to understand the premise (I personally didn’t, but some of you might), but isn’t that what fiction is anyway? A suspension of belief? Besides…I can see this happening and working out when both people are really committed.
As An Aside:
Would I do it? I want to say “no,” but honestly…in a way, I kind of did. While my husband and I met online on our own, we were “matched” together. We did talk on the phone a lot, but we only saw each other twice before our wedding (our third time in person together). We knew each other more than Luke and Becky, sure, but it was still a ginormous step of faith. So, would I do this? Would I involve myself in The Isaac Project? It would take a lot of faith—even more so than when I met and married my husband (by the way, that was over nine years ago, and we’re more in love today than even then!)—but if it’s what God asked me to do, yes. I would do it.
*I was given this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Becky and Luke. Sigh.
These two are a match made in heaven. Literally. When we first meet Becky, she’s joyful, optimistic, and in love. That doesn’t last long. At all. And it’s when her boyfriend is caught cheating on her that her insecurities—ones that I think a lot of us women can relate to—really come out. Through heartache, misunderstanding, and pride—yep, that nasty thing—Becky has such a beautiful character arc and growth that results in breaking down that wall of pride. There were a few times I wanted to throttle her, but more because I’ve been where she is and I know how it turns out. Thankfully, by the end of the book, so does she.
Luke. Well, I have a crush on him. Gotta be honest. He really opens himself up to God’s direction, and while he has hesitations, he trusts in the Lord and makes a commitment he’s determined to stand by. His arc isn’t as focused upon, though we’re often in his point of view and it’s a beautiful thing. He has his own faults, but they don’t play as large a part in this story as Becky’s does. Luke’s story more surrounds his attempt to show his wife love—even before he realizes he loves her. He’s a pretty swoon-worthy man, I tell you.
Sarah Monzon has done an incredible job in her debut novel! She has excellent tension between two loveable characters, Luke and Becky, has protagonists (which don’t always need to be people) that move the story along at a good pace, and a well-developed plot. While the premise seems a little far-fetched in this day and age at first thought, when you read the book, it actually isn’t that far-fetched at all (and it’s something my husband and I have often talked about with regards to our own kids…LOL!). More than anything, it highlights that marriage isn’t about the feeling of love, but the commitment of love, something that will hold a marriage together through thick and thin.
I highly recommend reading this book. At first, you may need to suspend some belief to understand the premise (I personally didn’t, but some of you might), but isn’t that what fiction is anyway? A suspension of belief? Besides…I can see this happening and working out when both people are really committed.
As An Aside:
Would I do it? I want to say “no,” but honestly…in a way, I kind of did. While my husband and I met online on our own, we were “matched” together. We did talk on the phone a lot, but we only saw each other twice before our wedding (our third time in person together). We knew each other more than Luke and Becky, sure, but it was still a ginormous step of faith. So, would I do this? Would I involve myself in The Isaac Project? It would take a lot of faith—even more so than when I met and married my husband (by the way, that was over nine years ago, and we’re more in love today than even then!)—but if it’s what God asked me to do, yes. I would do it.
*I was given this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 22, 2016
(3.5 Stars) When Becky discovers that her boyfriend is a cheater, she's devastated. It's just not her day when a short time later, she discovers that her grandpa (Poppy), the man who raised her, is dying. His only regret is not seeing her married and happy. After searching for some measure of comfort, Becky remembers the biblical story of Rebekah and Isaac and is determined to have her friend find her a husband in a similar manner.
The premise of this story is fun and interesting--almost an archaic marriage arrangement. The story goes back and forth between Becky's and Luke's points of view, and I couldn't help but feel nervous for Becky--and for Luke, for that matter. In this day and age, marrying someone you know next to nothing about is scary and dangerous! Becky is determined to go through with the marriage in order to make Poppy happy, whereas Luke is adamant to choose love. He goes to great lengths to do so and the message portrayed in the story is that love really is a choice--choose who you love and love who you choose. Becky is overflowing with emotion, especially in regards to the changes in her life, but she's a taker. It's Luke who makes the sacrifices with no thought of reward. Luke is a keeper and a very likable character.
An element of mystery and danger really adds to the story. There were moments when the story was gentle and flowing and other moments when things were really intense and moved quickly. I prefer a steady pace, but I still enjoyed the story. I like to watch characters transform and to see a positive, repeated message throughout--love is a choice.
Content: heavy religious content, as this is a Christian fiction; mild romance (kissing); mild violence. Clean!
*I received a copy through Singing Librarian Tours in exchange for an honest review*
The premise of this story is fun and interesting--almost an archaic marriage arrangement. The story goes back and forth between Becky's and Luke's points of view, and I couldn't help but feel nervous for Becky--and for Luke, for that matter. In this day and age, marrying someone you know next to nothing about is scary and dangerous! Becky is determined to go through with the marriage in order to make Poppy happy, whereas Luke is adamant to choose love. He goes to great lengths to do so and the message portrayed in the story is that love really is a choice--choose who you love and love who you choose. Becky is overflowing with emotion, especially in regards to the changes in her life, but she's a taker. It's Luke who makes the sacrifices with no thought of reward. Luke is a keeper and a very likable character.
An element of mystery and danger really adds to the story. There were moments when the story was gentle and flowing and other moments when things were really intense and moved quickly. I prefer a steady pace, but I still enjoyed the story. I like to watch characters transform and to see a positive, repeated message throughout--love is a choice.
Content: heavy religious content, as this is a Christian fiction; mild romance (kissing); mild violence. Clean!
*I received a copy through Singing Librarian Tours in exchange for an honest review*
January 18, 2016
Becky has a problem. Her boyfriend just cheated on her and she needs a groom pronto. Her grandfather is dying of leukemia and wants to see her married. Knowing there isn't much time she turns to the scriptures and comes across the story of Rebekah and Isaac. That is her solution. She needs to find a worthy man who she could grow to love. She entrusts her best friend to find her the man. If you don't have your BFF to watch your back, who do you have?
Luke is a good man who feels compelled to listen to the Becky's plight. He is intrigued, but it isn't until he starts to feel promptings of his own that he listens to voice of the Spirit and takes a leap of faith to become the groom.
Becky and Luke have chemistry, but they have a lot of miscommunication and struggles to overcome to find peach and happiness. I enjoyed both characters, but something about the story and their situation just didn't click with me. It is an enjoyable story. There were parts were it seemed to drag and other's where it seemed a little rushed. The pacing didn't distract from the overall feel of the story. The message in the story is perfect, love is a choice.
This is a Christian fiction story. It is clean. There is some violence and kissing.
Luke is a good man who feels compelled to listen to the Becky's plight. He is intrigued, but it isn't until he starts to feel promptings of his own that he listens to voice of the Spirit and takes a leap of faith to become the groom.
Becky and Luke have chemistry, but they have a lot of miscommunication and struggles to overcome to find peach and happiness. I enjoyed both characters, but something about the story and their situation just didn't click with me. It is an enjoyable story. There were parts were it seemed to drag and other's where it seemed a little rushed. The pacing didn't distract from the overall feel of the story. The message in the story is perfect, love is a choice.
This is a Christian fiction story. It is clean. There is some violence and kissing.
September 30, 2016
This book started out very rocky for me. I was literally even thinking of not moving past page 5. But I am so glad I presses on. Once her writing was firing in all cylinders, I really got into the book. I enjoyed reading a loosely backward version of Isaac and Rebekah. Very creative.
It was my first book from Saran Monzon but will not be my last.
I smiled, cried and giggled like a love sick teen at a very romantic bit although there are many.
Luke is a definitely book boyfriend matierial. Loved him. I have added him to my list. Yes, there is a list.
So if you collect book boyfriends and occasionally scream into a pillow at juicy bits, this a good choice.
FYI: My lovesick teenage girl moment takes place at the airport...swoon.
It was my first book from Saran Monzon but will not be my last.
I smiled, cried and giggled like a love sick teen at a very romantic bit although there are many.
Luke is a definitely book boyfriend matierial. Loved him. I have added him to my list. Yes, there is a list.
So if you collect book boyfriends and occasionally scream into a pillow at juicy bits, this a good choice.
FYI: My lovesick teenage girl moment takes place at the airport...swoon.
November 19, 2015
3.5 stars
Christian fiction. I mostly really liked this book. Some parts I didn't jive with me but overall this was an interesting retelling of a bible story. I did love the overall message that love is a choice.
Christian fiction. I mostly really liked this book. Some parts I didn't jive with me but overall this was an interesting retelling of a bible story. I did love the overall message that love is a choice.
July 29, 2015
This is an adorable take on Isaac and Rebecca's engagement! It's a sweet, fun read, but it also emphasizes how true love is a choice. You can't help but fall in love with Rebecca's "Isaac."
January 8, 2018
I saw a really glowing review on The Isaac Project a few years back and have been wanting to read it ever since. It recently was offered for free on a Kindle deal and I snatched it up. Unfortunately, it fell far short of my expectations.
I loved the concept of the book. Based on the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible (Genesis 24, for those interested), Becky asks her best friend to arrange a marriage for her so her dying grandfather can see her settled before he passes away. If you’re a reader that says “religion ruins a book” for you, then this is definitely not for you. The characters’ Christian faith is prevalent throughout the book. While I did like that aspect, it was a little heavy handed at times. I also found Becky to be really unlikable for the most part. She’s the one who asked for the arranged marriage and then she treated Luke terribly the majority of the time. Her refusal to communicate with him despite his multiple attempts to engage her drove me crazy.
I wasn’t super impressed with the writing style. Monzon is apparently a big fan of similes and used them to describe pretty much everything. I should have made better notes of them, but one that stands out was as a whole paragraphs of a voice being compared to a “river in autumn” that was kind of ridiculous.
Overall, The Isaac Project had a great concept, but did not live up to it’s potential. The side plot dealing with Becky’s business felt thrown in and not very well developed, the imagery of the writing was way too forced, and the main character was pretty unlikable. I did enjoy Luke and his faith and the passage of cheesy Christian pick up lines (“You know why Solomon had so many wives? Because he never met you. Is your name Faith? Because you are the substance of things I’ve hoped for. Last night I was reading in the book of Numbers and I realized I didn’t have yours.”). You might enjoy this if you’re a fan of arranged marriages and Christian Fiction, but I would suggest waiting for it to go on sale again.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 2.5 Stars
I loved the concept of the book. Based on the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible (Genesis 24, for those interested), Becky asks her best friend to arrange a marriage for her so her dying grandfather can see her settled before he passes away. If you’re a reader that says “religion ruins a book” for you, then this is definitely not for you. The characters’ Christian faith is prevalent throughout the book. While I did like that aspect, it was a little heavy handed at times. I also found Becky to be really unlikable for the most part. She’s the one who asked for the arranged marriage and then she treated Luke terribly the majority of the time. Her refusal to communicate with him despite his multiple attempts to engage her drove me crazy.
I wasn’t super impressed with the writing style. Monzon is apparently a big fan of similes and used them to describe pretty much everything. I should have made better notes of them, but one that stands out was as a whole paragraphs of a voice being compared to a “river in autumn” that was kind of ridiculous.
Overall, The Isaac Project had a great concept, but did not live up to it’s potential. The side plot dealing with Becky’s business felt thrown in and not very well developed, the imagery of the writing was way too forced, and the main character was pretty unlikable. I did enjoy Luke and his faith and the passage of cheesy Christian pick up lines (“You know why Solomon had so many wives? Because he never met you. Is your name Faith? Because you are the substance of things I’ve hoped for. Last night I was reading in the book of Numbers and I realized I didn’t have yours.”). You might enjoy this if you’re a fan of arranged marriages and Christian Fiction, but I would suggest waiting for it to go on sale again.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 2.5 Stars
August 11, 2017
OH.MY! I can so relate Rebekah with her independent personality. I enjoyed watching as she and Luke met and grew in their relationship. This story is a wonderful reminder that the Lord does work in all things to bring about our good.
July 16, 2015
I love when a story is fun, easy to read, and yet packed with faith. Sarah Monzon's debut novel delivers all of those, and I can't wait to find time to read it again! The Isaac Project is at the top of my favorite books for 2015. And the cover! Beautiful! Prefectly represents the well delivered story within, as well as the beautiful writing style. Definitely a must read on my shelf!
July 6, 2019
I wasn't sure how the author would pull off this plot in a believable fashion, but thought she did a fairly decent job of it. It was an enjoyable read.
January 17, 2016
I loved this book! I know I know I say this about all the books I read but on this one I just can't help myself!!!! I really did like this book!!
I can't imagine living in an arranged marriage but Becky and Luke managed to make a go of it with God's help.
I think this is why I enjoyed the book so much! It is because it has God and horses in it.
Poppy is an interesting character in my mind. In some ways he reminds me of my own grandfather. Always there if I needed someone to talk to or just make me feel loved. I thought it was cool in how he always seemed to know when Becky or Luke needed him.
I'm thinking that this is when they should've really talked to God.
Rita is an interesting character. She is caretaker of Grandview Manor and stays mostly to herself. I believe she has a story to tell just as most of folk do.
I believe I am a lot like Becky. I am independent and I very much like to do things my own Way and in my own time. Not God's. This is why we often times end up in so much trouble!!!
Luke is one lucky guy and brave. I'd definitely like to have a husband like him but I'm happy with the man God have me
I however; feel sorry for the horses. They are getting the brunt of it bc of one very cruel man. I think I'd like to strangle him myself.
I found myself rejoicing when Becky and Luke finally figure things out!!
One of my many favorite songs is Have Thine Own Way Lord Have Thine Own Way. It shows us that God is always with us and He asks that if we turn to Him things will work out the way they are supposed to in His own timing.
I give this book 5 stars it was too good to put down!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from the Singing Librarians tour
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book
I can't imagine living in an arranged marriage but Becky and Luke managed to make a go of it with God's help.
I think this is why I enjoyed the book so much! It is because it has God and horses in it.
Poppy is an interesting character in my mind. In some ways he reminds me of my own grandfather. Always there if I needed someone to talk to or just make me feel loved. I thought it was cool in how he always seemed to know when Becky or Luke needed him.
I'm thinking that this is when they should've really talked to God.
Rita is an interesting character. She is caretaker of Grandview Manor and stays mostly to herself. I believe she has a story to tell just as most of folk do.
I believe I am a lot like Becky. I am independent and I very much like to do things my own Way and in my own time. Not God's. This is why we often times end up in so much trouble!!!
Luke is one lucky guy and brave. I'd definitely like to have a husband like him but I'm happy with the man God have me
I however; feel sorry for the horses. They are getting the brunt of it bc of one very cruel man. I think I'd like to strangle him myself.
I found myself rejoicing when Becky and Luke finally figure things out!!
One of my many favorite songs is Have Thine Own Way Lord Have Thine Own Way. It shows us that God is always with us and He asks that if we turn to Him things will work out the way they are supposed to in His own timing.
I give this book 5 stars it was too good to put down!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from the Singing Librarians tour
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book
July 16, 2015
There is no one more important to Becky Sawyer than her grandfather, Poppy. But his health is failing and she's not sure how long he'll be with her. His only wish is to live long enough to see Becky get married and know that she'll be taken care of. Unfortunately, Becky's boyfriend was less than faithful to her, so he's gone. Becky's friend hatches an idea: she'll find Becky a husband. An arranged marriage. How will they know who the right guy is? They'll pray for a sign.
Luke Masterson is a well respected firefighter. His parents' marriage ended in divorce and he hasn't seen a lot of successful marriages to inspire confidence in the institution. When he finds out his friend's girlfriend is arranging a marriage for her best friend, he thinks they're all crazy...until he feels this stirring inside him. Is he the guy God has for this girl Becky, whom he's never met? For reasons he can't explain, he is compelled to move to where Becky lives, marry her so she can grant her grandpa's dying wish.
Luke and Becky put on a happy front for Poppy, but they're not bonding as man and wife the way they should. What is keeping them apart? Lots of misunderstandings! Like, who is sending Becky mysterious, threatening notes? Does Luke know she's in danger? And does Luke have some other woman at home he hasn't told Becky about? So many obstacles to overcome! Once Poppy is gone, will they stay together or just give up? I recommend this book to anyone who has ever wondered what a 21st-century arranged marriage would look like. It's a fun read with lots of plot twists!
Luke Masterson is a well respected firefighter. His parents' marriage ended in divorce and he hasn't seen a lot of successful marriages to inspire confidence in the institution. When he finds out his friend's girlfriend is arranging a marriage for her best friend, he thinks they're all crazy...until he feels this stirring inside him. Is he the guy God has for this girl Becky, whom he's never met? For reasons he can't explain, he is compelled to move to where Becky lives, marry her so she can grant her grandpa's dying wish.
Luke and Becky put on a happy front for Poppy, but they're not bonding as man and wife the way they should. What is keeping them apart? Lots of misunderstandings! Like, who is sending Becky mysterious, threatening notes? Does Luke know she's in danger? And does Luke have some other woman at home he hasn't told Becky about? So many obstacles to overcome! Once Poppy is gone, will they stay together or just give up? I recommend this book to anyone who has ever wondered what a 21st-century arranged marriage would look like. It's a fun read with lots of plot twists!
July 16, 2015
Usually contemporary romance is not one of my favorite genres. But I'm well aware of the fact that every now and then you're fortunate enough to stumble across a story with characters and a tale so beautiful and unique it will stay with you forever.
Becky and Luke's story was one of those tales for me. I couldn't put it down until I reached the end. The characters were great and I loved the heroine, Becky. Also, the romance was so sweet!
Overall, The Isaac Project was a wonderful read!
Becky and Luke's story was one of those tales for me. I couldn't put it down until I reached the end. The characters were great and I loved the heroine, Becky. Also, the romance was so sweet!
Overall, The Isaac Project was a wonderful read!
August 4, 2017
Slow start, for me I prefer interaction between the main players as soon as possible. This took some time in this story.
Cute read, and hard to put down, I always enjoy a marriage of convenience story. Given, there's not many of them in the Contemporary market - and this twist on the Old Testament, Isaac & Rebekah story was clever.
Cute read, and hard to put down, I always enjoy a marriage of convenience story. Given, there's not many of them in the Contemporary market - and this twist on the Old Testament, Isaac & Rebekah story was clever.
January 22, 2016
A fun read with a strong Biblical parallel. Loved reading the book from his and her perspectives. I think it was a unique way to write the book. Loved the character development. Can't wait to read more from Sarah!
November 6, 2015
Love the idea of this. It was a sweet, sweet romance and I loved Luke!! He was so sweet to Rebekah!! She drove me a touch crazy with all her trust issues and insecurities, but it all ended well!!
Read
March 21, 2017Cute with a little danger. Review to come.
January 22, 2016
Love should be this way.
Loved it! If we all had a great Eliezer in our lives, and waited on God, things would be different and happier for us all. Very well written. Be encouraged!
Loved it! If we all had a great Eliezer in our lives, and waited on God, things would be different and happier for us all. Very well written. Be encouraged!
June 20, 2017
June CFD Challenge
October 19, 2017
About the Book:
After catching her boyfriend cheating on her, Becky Sawyer decides she’s had it with love. This declaration puts her in quite the predicament, however, when she learns that not only is her beloved grandfather who raised her dying, but his last wish is to see her happily married. Turning to scripture for solace, Becky comes across the story of the deep love and commitment shared by Isaac and Rebekah even though they had an arranged marriage. Her mind made up, she asks her best friend to accomplish the impossible in modern times- find a man who is willing to marry her without even meeting her first. Lisa finds the perfect match in Luke Masterson- her boyfriend’s cousin. After presenting the arranged marriage idea to Luke, he immediately refuses. But as he, too, begins searching for God’s direction, he finds himself thinking about Becky and the idea of marrying her constantly until he senses the Holy Spirit nudging him to make a commitment to love Becky and marry her. As the two tie the knot and are joined as husband and wife, they face many challenges including getting to know one another, slowly building intimacy, and creating a foundation of trust as they try to carve a path to lasting love.
My Thoughts:
In a modern culture where commitment seems disposable, The Isaac Project stands as a beacon of promise of what God’s vision of “death do us part” should look like as love being a choice made daily by two people. I was so intrigued with the concept of this plot because arranged marriages in modern day America are completely unheard of. As I read, I found that the arranged marriage was the perfect backdrop for displaying what “commitment” truly means. I love that Luke went into the marriage with eyes wide open choosing to love her, protect her, shelter her, partner with her, and woo her with the expectation that the “romantic” type of love would eventually follow. Oh my and his wooing! How sweet, tender, and at times playful it was! Amazing story that showcases the depth of love God intended a couple to share in the cocoon of marriage.
This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.
After catching her boyfriend cheating on her, Becky Sawyer decides she’s had it with love. This declaration puts her in quite the predicament, however, when she learns that not only is her beloved grandfather who raised her dying, but his last wish is to see her happily married. Turning to scripture for solace, Becky comes across the story of the deep love and commitment shared by Isaac and Rebekah even though they had an arranged marriage. Her mind made up, she asks her best friend to accomplish the impossible in modern times- find a man who is willing to marry her without even meeting her first. Lisa finds the perfect match in Luke Masterson- her boyfriend’s cousin. After presenting the arranged marriage idea to Luke, he immediately refuses. But as he, too, begins searching for God’s direction, he finds himself thinking about Becky and the idea of marrying her constantly until he senses the Holy Spirit nudging him to make a commitment to love Becky and marry her. As the two tie the knot and are joined as husband and wife, they face many challenges including getting to know one another, slowly building intimacy, and creating a foundation of trust as they try to carve a path to lasting love.
My Thoughts:
In a modern culture where commitment seems disposable, The Isaac Project stands as a beacon of promise of what God’s vision of “death do us part” should look like as love being a choice made daily by two people. I was so intrigued with the concept of this plot because arranged marriages in modern day America are completely unheard of. As I read, I found that the arranged marriage was the perfect backdrop for displaying what “commitment” truly means. I love that Luke went into the marriage with eyes wide open choosing to love her, protect her, shelter her, partner with her, and woo her with the expectation that the “romantic” type of love would eventually follow. Oh my and his wooing! How sweet, tender, and at times playful it was! Amazing story that showcases the depth of love God intended a couple to share in the cocoon of marriage.
This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.
November 29, 2023
I kinda love when I read a Christian book and it wasn’t over the top cheesy or spiritual. Not that being spiritual is bad, but hopefully you know what I mean. I like that they took a story from the Bible (Isaac and Rebekah) and decided to put it to the test and so the same thing (matchmaking). Luke is a pretty patient and impressive guy that doesn’t sound like a real person, but a dream guy to most Christian women 😂
October 10, 2017
Interesting
A modern day Rebecca and Issac story with role reversals. She is trying to grant Pappy's last wish and he thinks the whole thing is crazy! After much prayer, he follows the prompting to marry this independent and skidish cowgirl. Before long a sweet story unfolds.
A modern day Rebecca and Issac story with role reversals. She is trying to grant Pappy's last wish and he thinks the whole thing is crazy! After much prayer, he follows the prompting to marry this independent and skidish cowgirl. Before long a sweet story unfolds.
December 2, 2017
Sweet Romance
I loved the idea of the Isaac Project! Following God is always a good choice in a marriage! Did I sob? Yes, a couple of times. I was incredibly concerned about Becky when she totally left, because she refused to ask him about what happened. Secrets are never a good idea! Then to have more bad stuff happen. So much sadness! But, there was a happy ending!
I loved the idea of the Isaac Project! Following God is always a good choice in a marriage! Did I sob? Yes, a couple of times. I was incredibly concerned about Becky when she totally left, because she refused to ask him about what happened. Secrets are never a good idea! Then to have more bad stuff happen. So much sadness! But, there was a happy ending!
March 2, 2021
My faith in Sarah’s books has been restored.
October 18, 2021
Eh. This wasn’t nearly as good as Esther Paradigm.
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