All That Really Matters

by Nicole Deese

Book Overview

Molly McKenzie's bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice have earned her an impressive social media following, as well as a shiny monthly paycheck. 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.

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• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 076423496X
• ISBN13: 9780764234965
• Release Date: April 2021
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
• Length: 416 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 5.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Delightful contemporary romance

Having only previously read one of Nicole Deese's books, there was not a long track record of what I could expect from her newest book. But as Before I Called You Mine pleasantly surprised me, All That Really Matters did as well. It is a wonderful story of emotional and spiritual growth in the main character, Molly. She is a sassy, out-going, say-it-like-it-is kind of gal whose career is all about outward appearances--make-up, clothes, and hair. And then she is challenged to spend time with foster children who are aging out of the system. Oh, the changes readers see. What a delight, encouraging, and an inspiration. And then there is Silas! If I were young and a character in a book, I would want to be his girlfriend! Deese has written a beautiful story with compelling unforgettable characters...a story of hope and healing in the midst of heartbreak. Readers who enjoy contemporary romance will not want to miss All That Really Matters. I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

Delightful and powerful

"Rarely did I sit in the tension between my plans and God's, between my wants an His, my way and His. Instead, I'd become an expert at throwing all my best efforts at problems bigger than myself and finding detours of escape without ever stopping to ask for guidance." Wow. It's another winner from Nicole Deese that will make you laugh out loud, cry big fat tears, cheer on the characters with all your heart, and feel such contentment after the last page is read. I learn something new every time I read the author's books; with this adventure I learned about the life of a social media influencer and the plight of those who age out of the foster care system. This book has it all - very real, down-to-earth, and raw emotions; a well-paced plot; beautifully broken and unforgettable characters; funny and clever conversations and thoughts; and profound spiritual encouragements regarding true identity and purpose, forgiveness, reconciliation, and extending grace even when it hurts. If you enjoy contemporary romance, you will absolutely love this must-read book of 2021. Told in first person narrative, the book takes us deep into the heart, mind, and soul of Molly and Silas who seem completely opposites at first. Molly, dubbed as "a pretty face with addictive personality" on social media, does come off as shallow but sweet and fun in the beginning as a up-and-coming beauty and fashion influencer. Silas is stoic, protective, loyal, disciplined, and completely focused on making his group home for at-risk young adults succeed. Silas' past is heart-breaking and he carries a lot of baggage that he doesn't know how to let go. Molly's past is less colorful but still tugs at the heart-strings. As Silas and Molly's visions for the home and its residents intertwine, they find out that they are more alike than they first realized. Their friendship is incredibly sweet, tender, and so much fun. As they become more than friends, it's wonderful to see that they bring out the best in each other - Molly helps Silas dream bigger, smile more, and enjoy each gift while Silas helps Molly find purpose for her creativity and soft-hearted willingness to love others. I know Nicole Deese doesn't usually write books in series but how I wish she'd continue the story with Molly's twin brother Miles! I received the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.