Happy Friday! I hope you can enjoy some beautiful spring weather this weekend, wherever you are. Speaking of spring, the gorgeous cover of the book I’m featuring for today’s First Line Friday post is full of spring-y colors! All That Really Matters, Nicole Deese’s newest book, just released this week – you’ll want to add it to your spring TBR list!

“I used to marvel at the way my Great Mimi’s arthritic fingers would pinch her eyeliner pencil and trace a perfect stroke of midnight black along her upper lash line.”

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese

The Basics

Title: All That Really Matters

Author: Nicole Deese

Publication Date: April 6, 2021

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

My Rating: 5 Stars

From the Back Cover: Molly McKenzie’s bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice have made her a major social media influencer. When her manager-turned-boyfriend tells her of an upcoming audition to host a makeover show for America’s underprivileged youth, all her dreams finally seem to be coming true. There’s just one catch: she has little experience interacting with people in need.

To gain an edge on her competitors, she plans to volunteer for the summer at a transitional program for aged-out foster kids, but the program’s director, Silas Whittaker, doesn’t find her as charming as her followers do. Despite his ridiculous rules and terms, Molly dives into mentoring, surprising herself with the genuine connections and concern she quickly develops for the girls–and Silas. But just as everything seems perfectly aligned for her professional future, it starts to crumble under the pressure. And as her once-narrow focus opens to the deep needs of those she’s come to know, she must face the ones she’s neglected inside herself for so long.

My Thoughts

This is a charming story that feels fresh, relevant, and unique in the Christian fiction market! I love the way it shines a spotlight on an often-forgotten group – young adults aging out of the foster care system. Molly’s transformation from self-centered social media influencer to someone willing to sacrifice for the people she loves is compelling. Silas, although not without his own flaws, is definitely a swoon-worthy hero. He and Molly get off to a rocky start, but as their relationship develops, they inspire growth and change in each other.

The story tackles some serious topics and heart issues, but the lighthearted moments and witty banter sprinkled in provide just the right balance. The secondary characters, especially Glo and the girls Molly mentors, give such depth and richness to the story. I hope there will be another book so we can read more about Molly’s brother Miles and her best friend Val – I get the feeling there’s more to their story! I highly recommend this book, especially for fans of Rachel Hauck, Becky Wade, and Courtney Walsh.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.