“All That Really Matters” is a book I have anticipated ever since Nicole Deese’s previous release.  After her last book rose to be among the top titles of my favourites list, (and still remains there to this day) I couldn’t wait for this one.  And although I know you “can’t judge a book by it’s cover”, I just have to say that the cover of this book is SO stunning!

I would describe this book as… sparkly, much like it’s heroine!  Not because it is light and fluffy – it’s not.  More because of the sparkling talent that this author clearly has for storytelling, creating amazingly life-like characters, and using very unique storylines.  I can honestly say I have never read a book that had even a similar storyline to this one.

One other thing I love about this book is that the title is significant.  The title is used in a very important sentence and moment of the book.  If I remember correctly, the same was true for “Before I Called You Mine”.  I love how these title are chosen with such care.

The romance aspect of this book stays on the clean side most of the time.  There were moments when descriptions went a bit beyond my comfort level as the reader, but this detraction from the story as a whole was slight.  One other thing I should mention is that some of the stories and choices of these former foster kids can be sordid tales.  Some are discussed in detail, and while it is uncomfortable to read, I also realize that it is an unfortunate reality.  Still, this is definitely a book for mature, older audiences.

That being said, for an older audience I recommend this as an incredible book to read.  Honestly, there were times I could not put it down!  The transformation of the heroine is spectacular to watch and, in many cases, learn from.  This is the sort of book that truly inspires you to be better.  Not by your own strength, but by leaning into God and allowing Him to work in ways you couldn’t even begin to guess.  To me, that is one mark of a truly great book, when it makes you look inward to your heart and helps you come closer to God.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”