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Fog Harbor #3
The Voice We Find
Sophie Wilder returns home to California with nothing more than a failed Broadway career and a geriatric cat. Stuck working at the family winery with her egotistical brother and desperate for a way to revive her acting dreams, she takes a side gig as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books. But getting mixed up in the life of her reluctant sound engineer was never a part of her plans.
August Tate is still reeling from taking guardianship of his teen sister. Determined to find a solution to her degenerative hearing loss and to prevent his private recording studio from going under, he agrees to produce audiobooks part-time. When Sophie breathes new life into his creativity and forms an unexpected bond with his sister, rooted in their common faith, he must confront the reasons he turned away from his own.
Bestselling and award-winning author Nicole Deese weaves an emotionally charged romance rich in the complexities of love and family.
August Tate is still reeling from taking guardianship of his teen sister. Determined to find a solution to her degenerative hearing loss and to prevent his private recording studio from going under, he agrees to produce audiobooks part-time. When Sophie breathes new life into his creativity and forms an unexpected bond with his sister, rooted in their common faith, he must confront the reasons he turned away from his own.
Bestselling and award-winning author Nicole Deese weaves an emotionally charged romance rich in the complexities of love and family.
416 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2025
91 people are currently reading
5657 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Deese
20 books2,078 followersNicole Deese is a Christy and Carol Award-winning, bestselling author of hope-filled, humorous, and heartfelt contemporary romance novels. When she's not sorting out character arcs and story plots of her own, she can usually be found listening to an audiobook and multitasking at least four different chores at once. She’s a hoarder of sparkling water, a lover of long walks and even longer talks with friends, and a seeker of fun and adventure at all times.
She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.
To learn more, visit www.nicoledeese.com.
She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.
To learn more, visit www.nicoledeese.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
April 19, 2025
4.5⭐️
I have loved reading the Fog Harbor series, and I think this is my favorite!
This beautiful story has themes of faith, family, forgiveness, and redemption. Nicole has a true gift for tackling deeper themes while always handling them gracefully and weaving God into the story. I love how this book has a great balance of real-life topics and depth, imperfect characters you grow to love, relate to, and root for, and a dash of humor in between.
This book was unique in that it included the ASL and deaf community, theater performance, and insight into the audiobook narration world. I thought these aspects made this story really stand out.
I loved following each character’s storylines and seeing their growth as they navigate uncertainty and family tension, struggle with faith, and find their voice. I loved the sweet, realistic romance that slowly blossoms, the sibling relationship between August and Gabby, and learning more about the deaf community.
If you’re looking for a contemporary book with depth, faith-centered themes, and a sweet romance, I highly recommend this book and the entire series!
content to consider: death of parents, toxic parents, tragic accident, anxiety/panic attacks, grief, gaslighting, abuse referenced (off-page)
Thank you, Nicole Deese, Bethany House Publishers, TLC Tours, & Netgalley for the complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
I have loved reading the Fog Harbor series, and I think this is my favorite!
This beautiful story has themes of faith, family, forgiveness, and redemption. Nicole has a true gift for tackling deeper themes while always handling them gracefully and weaving God into the story. I love how this book has a great balance of real-life topics and depth, imperfect characters you grow to love, relate to, and root for, and a dash of humor in between.
This book was unique in that it included the ASL and deaf community, theater performance, and insight into the audiobook narration world. I thought these aspects made this story really stand out.
I loved following each character’s storylines and seeing their growth as they navigate uncertainty and family tension, struggle with faith, and find their voice. I loved the sweet, realistic romance that slowly blossoms, the sibling relationship between August and Gabby, and learning more about the deaf community.
If you’re looking for a contemporary book with depth, faith-centered themes, and a sweet romance, I highly recommend this book and the entire series!
content to consider: death of parents, toxic parents, tragic accident, anxiety/panic attacks, grief, gaslighting, abuse referenced (off-page)
Thank you, Nicole Deese, Bethany House Publishers, TLC Tours, & Netgalley for the complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
April 27, 2025
The Voice We Find by Nicole Deese
5 STARS
BLOG POST with review graphics and favorite quotes: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
Wow. Let's just say I have found another favorite book of 2025 and of ALL time. Nicole Deese tells powerful stories. Plain and simple. She is a top favorite of all time and I will forever recommend her books! Let's get into the review:
The Voice We Find is technically book 3 in the Fog Harbor Book Series, but you can read it as a standalone book. They do not connect in the storylines.
Book 1: The Words We Lost
Book 2: The Roads We Follow
Book 3: The Voice We Find
The Voice We Find doesn't just give you a good story....it gives you something much deeper: hope, healing and the beautiful reminder of the Gospel of Jesus. Sophie, August and Gabby's journey spoke right to my heart. There were laughs, tears and so many moments of reflection. Nicole Deese's writing truly breathes LIFE into a story!
We follow Sophie, August and Gabby. Sophie returns home to California with a failed Broadway career and her cat. She is working at the family winery with her egotistical brother and takes a job as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books. This is where she works with August.
August has guardianship of his adopted teenage sister. Their parents passed away in an accident a couple of years ago and his sister Gabby was left with degenerative hearing loss. He feels like he needs to fix this problem, yet Gabby has embraces her new life, learning ASL and forming new friendships.
Sophie and August develop a relationship along the way as they each process feelings, grief, trauma and allow the Lord to work in ways they least expect.
I have a full dedicated reading vlog coming for this book on Monday, where you will see the reactions, tears and favorite quotes along the way.
Watching Sophie find her voice again and August rediscover his faith was so great. I loved their relationship and the added layer of Gabby's POV was so important and well needed. It added so much to the story. I learned so much about ASL and the deaf community. I also loved seeing our characters go to church and the community they had together.
This isn't just my favorite book of the year....it's a book I will carry with me for a LONG time. God is in the details and this book shows that. The prodigal son has come on home. Praise God for these moments.
Highly recommend. Thank you to Bethany House for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 STARS
BLOG POST with review graphics and favorite quotes: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
Wow. Let's just say I have found another favorite book of 2025 and of ALL time. Nicole Deese tells powerful stories. Plain and simple. She is a top favorite of all time and I will forever recommend her books! Let's get into the review:
The Voice We Find is technically book 3 in the Fog Harbor Book Series, but you can read it as a standalone book. They do not connect in the storylines.
Book 1: The Words We Lost
Book 2: The Roads We Follow
Book 3: The Voice We Find
The Voice We Find doesn't just give you a good story....it gives you something much deeper: hope, healing and the beautiful reminder of the Gospel of Jesus. Sophie, August and Gabby's journey spoke right to my heart. There were laughs, tears and so many moments of reflection. Nicole Deese's writing truly breathes LIFE into a story!
We follow Sophie, August and Gabby. Sophie returns home to California with a failed Broadway career and her cat. She is working at the family winery with her egotistical brother and takes a job as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books. This is where she works with August.
August has guardianship of his adopted teenage sister. Their parents passed away in an accident a couple of years ago and his sister Gabby was left with degenerative hearing loss. He feels like he needs to fix this problem, yet Gabby has embraces her new life, learning ASL and forming new friendships.
Sophie and August develop a relationship along the way as they each process feelings, grief, trauma and allow the Lord to work in ways they least expect.
I have a full dedicated reading vlog coming for this book on Monday, where you will see the reactions, tears and favorite quotes along the way.
Watching Sophie find her voice again and August rediscover his faith was so great. I loved their relationship and the added layer of Gabby's POV was so important and well needed. It added so much to the story. I learned so much about ASL and the deaf community. I also loved seeing our characters go to church and the community they had together.
This isn't just my favorite book of the year....it's a book I will carry with me for a LONG time. God is in the details and this book shows that. The prodigal son has come on home. Praise God for these moments.
Highly recommend. Thank you to Bethany House for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 13, 2025
The Voice We Find is book 3 in the Fog Harbor romance series and features forgiveness, reconciliation and the search for belonging. I loved the focus on the deaf and hard-of-hearing community and the examination of what we need to do when facing overwhelming circumstances.
Ever felt a failure? Took a ‘settle-for’ job knowing it was just temporary? Then you’ll be rooting for Sophie Wilder when she returns home thinking she’s a failure but knows that there’s a flicker of an ember still left in her dream. Wanting to keep this acting dream alive, she applies for a position as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books.
Ever feel like you’ve got enough on your plate? Wonder why you’ve been saddled with so much responsibility? Just wished for ‘normal’? Then you’ll be rooting for August Tate as he struggles to keep his recording studio afloat and care for his hearing-impaired sister.
Deese captures readers’ attention with her rich, complex story centered around the value of community and fleshed out with intrigue, secrets and romance. I love the connection to the publishing house in each sequel and was delightfully surprised this time by her focus on a rarely highlighted part of our community. Deese explores the influence we have, the power of our faith and what it takes to put God first in our lives.
Deese reminds us that sometimes the answer to our prayers comes disguised as an ordinary gift on an ordinary day.
Psst, Nicole, I couldn’t find the part your rewrote SEVEN TIMES!
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Ever felt a failure? Took a ‘settle-for’ job knowing it was just temporary? Then you’ll be rooting for Sophie Wilder when she returns home thinking she’s a failure but knows that there’s a flicker of an ember still left in her dream. Wanting to keep this acting dream alive, she applies for a position as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books.
Ever feel like you’ve got enough on your plate? Wonder why you’ve been saddled with so much responsibility? Just wished for ‘normal’? Then you’ll be rooting for August Tate as he struggles to keep his recording studio afloat and care for his hearing-impaired sister.
Deese captures readers’ attention with her rich, complex story centered around the value of community and fleshed out with intrigue, secrets and romance. I love the connection to the publishing house in each sequel and was delightfully surprised this time by her focus on a rarely highlighted part of our community. Deese explores the influence we have, the power of our faith and what it takes to put God first in our lives.
Deese reminds us that sometimes the answer to our prayers comes disguised as an ordinary gift on an ordinary day.
Psst, Nicole, I couldn’t find the part your rewrote SEVEN TIMES!
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 18, 2025
This was my first read by this author and I loved it so much! I loved her writing style, it just flowed so smoothly. Sophie and August were such great characters. I loved that they each had flaws that they had to work on and things that happened in their past that affected them. August feels pressure with being guardian over his teen sister, Gabby, who is going deaf. He wants to help her get better but she seems to be accepting of her condition and is moving on with life and learning American Sign language. Sophie has some troubles with her brother as well. Sophie and August getting together was so beautiful. I loved how the author showed a fight between them and how realistic that was. This book tackles some tougher topics but is done so well. There was a lot of great Christian content through out the book as well. Overall, I just thought this was a fantastic read and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: kisses, parents death, some drinking
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: kisses, parents death, some drinking
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 3, 2025
I admire what Nicole Deese is doing to the contemporary Christian fiction genre. It’s no secret I don’t like fluff (the odd light hearted story excepted). I don’t like hallmark cliche love stories and unrealistic happily ever afters. If you stick around long enough, you’ll find I read far more historical than I do contemporary.
However.
I have absolutely loved the Fog Harbor series and I do believe The Voice We Find is Nicole’s best work this far. She took a few complicated people and paired them with interesting + not often represented careers, and the result is a beautiful life giving story of redemption and faith and finding the confidence to live how God has called you.
I’ll have a hard time finding another story that tops this read for the year.
However.
I have absolutely loved the Fog Harbor series and I do believe The Voice We Find is Nicole’s best work this far. She took a few complicated people and paired them with interesting + not often represented careers, and the result is a beautiful life giving story of redemption and faith and finding the confidence to live how God has called you.
I’ll have a hard time finding another story that tops this read for the year.
May 27, 2025
The Voice We Find is again one of my all time favorite books. Nicole Deese writes contemporary romance like no other and her stories don’t just tug on the heart, they speak and whisper truth and encouragement to the broken places and breathes life on things that are dead and buried.
Her stories are full of so much heart and the most relatable characters, all with a dash of adorable romance, sweet series easter eggs, multi-faceted plots and depth to each character as well as setting. This story has all of the audiobook, acting, producer/actor romance, little sister/protective big brother, beach town, So-Cal vibes you could want.
Do yourself a massive favor and read this entire series. You won’t regret it. Each book has been such a blessing and encouragement to me in some way or another and I wish more people understood the magic and heart behind these tales.
Her stories are full of so much heart and the most relatable characters, all with a dash of adorable romance, sweet series easter eggs, multi-faceted plots and depth to each character as well as setting. This story has all of the audiobook, acting, producer/actor romance, little sister/protective big brother, beach town, So-Cal vibes you could want.
Do yourself a massive favor and read this entire series. You won’t regret it. Each book has been such a blessing and encouragement to me in some way or another and I wish more people understood the magic and heart behind these tales.
April 2, 2025
Oh my! I loved this book. It has been awhile since I've made time to read one of the Nicole Deese books sitting on my Kindle, and I am SOOOO glad that I made time for this beautiful story. Sophie and Tate were a great H/H combination and Tate's sister Gabby was a wonderful secondary character. She was so real and the way her loss of hearing journey was woven in felt real and genuine. And the back and forth of the romance was the perfect amount of sweet. Add in a touch of mystery that builds slowly and it was a very enjoyable read that I can highly recommend.
March 31, 2025
IF I COULD GIVE THIS BOOK A BILLION , A MILLION, A ZILLION STARS I WOULD. THIS . IS. IT . AND THE FACT THAT I CALLED THIS BOOK AT 20% AS ONE OF MY TOP READS OF 2025 !!!! IF YOU COULD READ ONE BOOK THAT I RECOMMEND THIS YEAR , THIS THIS THIS IS IT. THIS IS MY ENTIRE HEART IN A BOOK
*so sorry for the all caps, I will never shut up on how good this book is. brb as I create things and just ahhhhhhhhhhh
*so sorry for the all caps, I will never shut up on how good this book is. brb as I create things and just ahhhhhhhhhhh
April 17, 2025
Thank you to Nicole Deese, Bethany House, and NetGalley for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: “Miracles come in many forms, and mine came in the form of a rescue I didn’t deserve, and in a hope I never could have emulated…” When August Tate suddenly becomes the sole guardian of his teenage sister, the pressures of raising a teenager with hearing loss motivate his every decision. The guilt he faces drives him to do everything he can to heal her—including producing audiobooks, a field he never knew was a possibility. When this new endeavor lands a struggling actress right in his studio, the beautiful and talented Sophie Wilder rocks his world in ways he couldn’t have imagined. But he’s also changing hers. Sophie finds herself back in her childhood home and stuck under the toxic influences of her past. As the two struggle through guilt and shame, unlikely friendships lead them to seek more than just a secure job and physical healing. Is it really possible for their pasts to be redeemed? And what does a future look like that’s actually filled with hope?
Analysis: Nicole Deese’s Fog Harbor Romance series just keeps getting better and better, and this may be my favorite book of hers yet! Nicole weaves a seamless story with the perfect blend of character and plot. This book has so many layers and will spark conversations regarding hearing loss, prodigals, and where true healing is found. I love how the characters’ emotions are authentic, and I can’t forget the romance. It’s sweet, clean, and the perfect depth. Nicole definitely writes my favorite MMCs! With deaf representation, relatable characters, and rich faith, Nicole weaves a beautiful story of hope and redemption that you don’t want to miss!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: “Miracles come in many forms, and mine came in the form of a rescue I didn’t deserve, and in a hope I never could have emulated…” When August Tate suddenly becomes the sole guardian of his teenage sister, the pressures of raising a teenager with hearing loss motivate his every decision. The guilt he faces drives him to do everything he can to heal her—including producing audiobooks, a field he never knew was a possibility. When this new endeavor lands a struggling actress right in his studio, the beautiful and talented Sophie Wilder rocks his world in ways he couldn’t have imagined. But he’s also changing hers. Sophie finds herself back in her childhood home and stuck under the toxic influences of her past. As the two struggle through guilt and shame, unlikely friendships lead them to seek more than just a secure job and physical healing. Is it really possible for their pasts to be redeemed? And what does a future look like that’s actually filled with hope?
Analysis: Nicole Deese’s Fog Harbor Romance series just keeps getting better and better, and this may be my favorite book of hers yet! Nicole weaves a seamless story with the perfect blend of character and plot. This book has so many layers and will spark conversations regarding hearing loss, prodigals, and where true healing is found. I love how the characters’ emotions are authentic, and I can’t forget the romance. It’s sweet, clean, and the perfect depth. Nicole definitely writes my favorite MMCs! With deaf representation, relatable characters, and rich faith, Nicole weaves a beautiful story of hope and redemption that you don’t want to miss!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 22, 2025
I have yet to read a Nicole Deese book that I didn’t love. She has such a gift for tackling difficult, real-life topics in a way that feels both honest and full of grace. I’ll read anything she writes—seriously, even her grocery list! She’s a fantastic storyteller, and I love how she weaves the gospel into each of her books so beautifully.
This book felt different from her others, as it follows a girl named Gabby who loses her hearing after a terrible accident. We get to see her journey as she learns ASL and connects with the Deaf community, which was such a unique and compelling aspect of the story. Watching her navigate this life-altering change and mature through it all was really special.
Then we have our MC, Sophie, who has her own struggles but ultimately comes to faith in such a powerful way. Her story is a beautiful representation of leaving the ninety-nine to go after the one. I also loved seeing her growth, the sweet friendships she builds along the way, and the way her family relationships evolve—especially with one person in particular.
The only thing that threw me off was the final voice memo. It was written in a way that felt more like an epilogue rather than an actual voice memo, which made it stand out from the other VMs in the book. The level of detail in it didn’t quite match the more casual, spoken feel of the previous ones. It wasn’t a huge issue, but it did catch me off guard. That being said, it didn’t take away from my love for the book—I’m still giving it five stars!
Honestly, you need to read this one. It’s the kind of story that will stick with you, def gonna be a favorite book of the year!
This book felt different from her others, as it follows a girl named Gabby who loses her hearing after a terrible accident. We get to see her journey as she learns ASL and connects with the Deaf community, which was such a unique and compelling aspect of the story. Watching her navigate this life-altering change and mature through it all was really special.
Then we have our MC, Sophie, who has her own struggles but ultimately comes to faith in such a powerful way. Her story is a beautiful representation of leaving the ninety-nine to go after the one. I also loved seeing her growth, the sweet friendships she builds along the way, and the way her family relationships evolve—especially with one person in particular.
The only thing that threw me off was the final voice memo. It was written in a way that felt more like an epilogue rather than an actual voice memo, which made it stand out from the other VMs in the book. The level of detail in it didn’t quite match the more casual, spoken feel of the previous ones. It wasn’t a huge issue, but it did catch me off guard. That being said, it didn’t take away from my love for the book—I’m still giving it five stars!
Honestly, you need to read this one. It’s the kind of story that will stick with you, def gonna be a favorite book of the year!
May 3, 2025
From the start, we find both main characters struggling with their purpose and their relationship with God. Sophie has arrived home to fulfill the stipulations set forth by her grandmother’s will in order to receive her trust payout. Her family dynamics are difficult to say the least, and only made worse by her recent humiliation on Broadway. August gave up his music career to raise his orphaned younger sister, Gabby. Gabby lost most of her hearing in the accident that killed her parents, and she and August have very different perspectives on deafness, grief, and God.
I’ve struggled writing this review because I know I cannot adequately convey how profoundly this book touched my heart. The Voice We Find is packed with sweet romance, personal growth, mysteries, and deep character development. All ingredients for a heartwarming story. Even still, it was the stunning portrayal of God’s patient, consistent pursuit of his children that absolutely pierced my heart. I could not keep from crying throughout the second half of this book. It wrecked me in the best way possible and completely ministered to my soul. Reading through both August and Sophie's journeys in their relationship with God was absolutely relatable and so encouraging.
The first book in the series, The Words We Lost, was in my top 3 favorite books of 2024, and The Voice We Find will absolutely top the list for 2025. I absolutely encourage you to grab this one, and the first two in the series as well. Keep your tissues nearby when reading!
Intimacy: Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Toxic family, death of a loved one (past), implied abuse
I’ve struggled writing this review because I know I cannot adequately convey how profoundly this book touched my heart. The Voice We Find is packed with sweet romance, personal growth, mysteries, and deep character development. All ingredients for a heartwarming story. Even still, it was the stunning portrayal of God’s patient, consistent pursuit of his children that absolutely pierced my heart. I could not keep from crying throughout the second half of this book. It wrecked me in the best way possible and completely ministered to my soul. Reading through both August and Sophie's journeys in their relationship with God was absolutely relatable and so encouraging.
The first book in the series, The Words We Lost, was in my top 3 favorite books of 2024, and The Voice We Find will absolutely top the list for 2025. I absolutely encourage you to grab this one, and the first two in the series as well. Keep your tissues nearby when reading!
Intimacy: Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Toxic family, death of a loved one (past), implied abuse
April 19, 2025
“I have spoken the words of a hundred different characters on stage, but I’ve only recently found a voice of my own.”
With each book in this Fog Harbor Romance series by Nicole Deese, I have closed the final page and just sat with the lingering effects of the story for a few minutes. (Or, in the case of The Words We Lost, a few hours lol) These novels have truly taken up residence in my heart, and The Voice We Find quickly carved out its own place there. Sophie, August, his sister Gabby… they all felt like dear friends from the beginning, and my emotions were fully engaged in watching God bring beauty from the ashes of their respective stories. And then there’s Chip, who’s kinda like the fairy godfather of this series. (Though I don’t think he’d appreciate the comparison haha) I am still hoping for his story one day, but in the meantime he is pivotal in intersecting Sophie and August’s paths in The Voice We Find and I loved his steady (and sometimes amused) presence in this book.
The narrative moves effortlessly between Sophie’s perspective and August’s, with occasional glimpses at Gabby’s thoughts in the aftermath of the accident that changed everything for her and for August. And Deese infuses each perspective with so much heart that you can’t help but fall head over heels for all three of these characters. Sophie, whose Broadway career crashed in the most humiliating way, is instantly likable and engaging and it was very easy for me to root for her success professionally and personally. August, whose faith was deeply shaken by the death of his parents and Gabby’s injury, is all things swoony and sincere and oh my heart went out to him as he tries to do what’s best for his beloved little sister. And Gabby, whose hearing may be damaged but not her faith, is delightful and inspiring and full of personality, and I loved how her story allowed the author to explore the Deaf & hard of hearing community and represent them so beautifully.
And while, yes, The Voice We Find delves into deep emotions like grief and fear and trauma, it’s a healing story rather than a heavy one. The faith threads – from Gabby’s solid walk with Jesus to Sophie’s new beginning to August’s anger at God – allow most readers to see themselves in one or the other and find a tender dose of grace there for the taking. Additionally, Deese has perfected the art of blending the lighthearted with the profound without diminishing either one, and this latest book is a masterclass in the same. For starters, there’s the delicious romantic tension that builds breathlessly between Sophie and August over the course of the story. Watching their journey from coworkers on Chip’s audiobook brainchild(ren), to friends who stay in their respective times of need, to something deeper and far swoonier (involving some quite yummy kisses) was truly a pleasure. There’s also some really fun humor (August & Phantom!! #Augie!! Bonnie!!) and even a dash of suspense that all comes together to make this a well-balanced novel that’s a delight to read.
Bottom Line: Be prepared to experience a wide range of emotions when you read The Voice We Find by Nicole Deese. You’ll laugh. You’ll swoon. You’ll gasp in surprise. And yes, you’ll shed a few (or more) tears. Because Sophie, August, and Gabby will capture your heart and may even break it before all is said and done (because you’ll become so invested in their story), but the exquisitely touching portrayal of God’s love and restoration will bring healing with wide open arms. I loved the romance, the friendship, the humor, the faith, the positive and insightful representation of the Deaf community, and the plot twists that I wasn’t expecting too. This author’s warm and compassionate writing voice immediately engages you in the story, and I was torn between reading as fast as I could and savoring each word. The Voice We Find is beautiful in every way, and I highly recommend it for your next read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
With each book in this Fog Harbor Romance series by Nicole Deese, I have closed the final page and just sat with the lingering effects of the story for a few minutes. (Or, in the case of The Words We Lost, a few hours lol) These novels have truly taken up residence in my heart, and The Voice We Find quickly carved out its own place there. Sophie, August, his sister Gabby… they all felt like dear friends from the beginning, and my emotions were fully engaged in watching God bring beauty from the ashes of their respective stories. And then there’s Chip, who’s kinda like the fairy godfather of this series. (Though I don’t think he’d appreciate the comparison haha) I am still hoping for his story one day, but in the meantime he is pivotal in intersecting Sophie and August’s paths in The Voice We Find and I loved his steady (and sometimes amused) presence in this book.
The narrative moves effortlessly between Sophie’s perspective and August’s, with occasional glimpses at Gabby’s thoughts in the aftermath of the accident that changed everything for her and for August. And Deese infuses each perspective with so much heart that you can’t help but fall head over heels for all three of these characters. Sophie, whose Broadway career crashed in the most humiliating way, is instantly likable and engaging and it was very easy for me to root for her success professionally and personally. August, whose faith was deeply shaken by the death of his parents and Gabby’s injury, is all things swoony and sincere and oh my heart went out to him as he tries to do what’s best for his beloved little sister. And Gabby, whose hearing may be damaged but not her faith, is delightful and inspiring and full of personality, and I loved how her story allowed the author to explore the Deaf & hard of hearing community and represent them so beautifully.
And while, yes, The Voice We Find delves into deep emotions like grief and fear and trauma, it’s a healing story rather than a heavy one. The faith threads – from Gabby’s solid walk with Jesus to Sophie’s new beginning to August’s anger at God – allow most readers to see themselves in one or the other and find a tender dose of grace there for the taking. Additionally, Deese has perfected the art of blending the lighthearted with the profound without diminishing either one, and this latest book is a masterclass in the same. For starters, there’s the delicious romantic tension that builds breathlessly between Sophie and August over the course of the story. Watching their journey from coworkers on Chip’s audiobook brainchild(ren), to friends who stay in their respective times of need, to something deeper and far swoonier (involving some quite yummy kisses) was truly a pleasure. There’s also some really fun humor (August & Phantom!! #Augie!! Bonnie!!) and even a dash of suspense that all comes together to make this a well-balanced novel that’s a delight to read.
Bottom Line: Be prepared to experience a wide range of emotions when you read The Voice We Find by Nicole Deese. You’ll laugh. You’ll swoon. You’ll gasp in surprise. And yes, you’ll shed a few (or more) tears. Because Sophie, August, and Gabby will capture your heart and may even break it before all is said and done (because you’ll become so invested in their story), but the exquisitely touching portrayal of God’s love and restoration will bring healing with wide open arms. I loved the romance, the friendship, the humor, the faith, the positive and insightful representation of the Deaf community, and the plot twists that I wasn’t expecting too. This author’s warm and compassionate writing voice immediately engages you in the story, and I was torn between reading as fast as I could and savoring each word. The Voice We Find is beautiful in every way, and I highly recommend it for your next read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Want to read
July 17, 2024Pre-release/read blurb:
It's a Nicole Deese book, of course I'm gonna read it. I love the premise of this book. Hello? Books and acting? Yes! Immediately yes. And the pink cover? So cute! This is one of my most anticipated reads of 2025.
It's a Nicole Deese book, of course I'm gonna read it. I love the premise of this book. Hello? Books and acting? Yes! Immediately yes. And the pink cover? So cute! This is one of my most anticipated reads of 2025.
April 14, 2025
"...I don't understand why things happened the way they did, but I trust that God has a plan. My mom raised me to believe He works in every circumstance in out lives. Even the hardest ones." Nicole Deese returns in her third installment of the Fog Harbor book series with new characters that will have you regretting having to close the pages at the end.
Sophie and August are thrown together when they are needed to produce an audiobook for an up-and-coming fantasy author. Each is down on their luck and holds burdens and sorrows from days past. August recently became the legal guardian of his sister, and Sophie has returned to her hometown after a failed career on Broadway. Throughout the book, not only will they have to confront their pains, but perhaps find love along the way.
This book wrestles with the aftereffects of loss and tragedy. In both sets of characters, they have gone through a traumatic event that they struggle to see past and overcome. This book had the most honest portrayal of authentic struggle in life-altering dianogisis. It also did a startlingly good job of showing Christian culture. Honestly, it isn’t often that an author shows as much attention to the church as she does scripture. Most Christian books have a lack of the church unless it’s a critique. It was so refreshing to read a book that viewed the Church and church postively. The primary theme is that nothing can rip us from the hand of God: not our mistakes, not our pain, not tragedy, not dianogisis’s.
This book has Deaf representation through August's sister Gabby, who has a degenerative hearing condition she developed after an accident. Though I am not deaf, I enjoyed learning about and seeing this culture represented in a Christian book. It was amazing to see the call to action within these pages to reach the Deaf community with the gospel and how to do so. It was different and refreshing. I also enjoyed the adoption plotline throughout this book. I'm sure the experience was authentic, given Deese's experience with adoption.
This book touched me on a personal level as I was reading this book. I had just come off life-altering decisions due to health concerns that remain unresolved and undiagnosed. This book felt written for me and my situation and was a beautiful reminder that God has a purpose in our pain. I can't say enough good things about this story, and I would highly recommend adding this as your next read!
Sophie and August are thrown together when they are needed to produce an audiobook for an up-and-coming fantasy author. Each is down on their luck and holds burdens and sorrows from days past. August recently became the legal guardian of his sister, and Sophie has returned to her hometown after a failed career on Broadway. Throughout the book, not only will they have to confront their pains, but perhaps find love along the way.
This book wrestles with the aftereffects of loss and tragedy. In both sets of characters, they have gone through a traumatic event that they struggle to see past and overcome. This book had the most honest portrayal of authentic struggle in life-altering dianogisis. It also did a startlingly good job of showing Christian culture. Honestly, it isn’t often that an author shows as much attention to the church as she does scripture. Most Christian books have a lack of the church unless it’s a critique. It was so refreshing to read a book that viewed the Church and church postively. The primary theme is that nothing can rip us from the hand of God: not our mistakes, not our pain, not tragedy, not dianogisis’s.
This book has Deaf representation through August's sister Gabby, who has a degenerative hearing condition she developed after an accident. Though I am not deaf, I enjoyed learning about and seeing this culture represented in a Christian book. It was amazing to see the call to action within these pages to reach the Deaf community with the gospel and how to do so. It was different and refreshing. I also enjoyed the adoption plotline throughout this book. I'm sure the experience was authentic, given Deese's experience with adoption.
This book touched me on a personal level as I was reading this book. I had just come off life-altering decisions due to health concerns that remain unresolved and undiagnosed. This book felt written for me and my situation and was a beautiful reminder that God has a purpose in our pain. I can't say enough good things about this story, and I would highly recommend adding this as your next read!
May 10, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Admitting defeat, Sophie Wilder returns to her childhood home seeking a soft landing. Unfortunately, the Wilder family has never been described as compassionate or nurturing. But when a job opportunity leads her to August Tate, she quickly discovers there are still good people out there. Will Sophie be able to survive a summer in the place she swore she would never return, or will reprising her role as the ‘black sheep’ of the Wilder clan be too much to handle?
The Voice We Find is a harrowing tale of resilience and redemption. Both main characters, Sophie Wilder and August Tate, have suffered family trauma with lasting effects. While their day to lives have been impacted by said trauma, they have no choice but to persevere.
Combining themes of faith and forgiveness, author Nicole Deese does a fantastic job reminding readers God is in the small details. Therefore, the relationships featured in this novel stress the importance of a supportive community. In addition, the book serves as a modern retelling of popular Biblical stories (the prodigal’s son/ leaving the 99 for the 1).
Needless to say, I enjoyed my time with this novel. I loved that Deese chose to highlight the arts in all formats (theater, voice acting, creating music, etc.). However, the ASL representation was my absolute favorite. As someone who has never personally experienced communicating with someone hard of hearing/ partially/ fully deaf, I found this story to be educational and informative.
Special thanks to Bethany House Publishers and Nicole Deese for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
*After finishing this book I learned this the third book in the Fog Harbor Series. I look forward to reading the first two books in the near future!
**Content Warning: this book deals with heavy topics such as death, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and abuse.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Admitting defeat, Sophie Wilder returns to her childhood home seeking a soft landing. Unfortunately, the Wilder family has never been described as compassionate or nurturing. But when a job opportunity leads her to August Tate, she quickly discovers there are still good people out there. Will Sophie be able to survive a summer in the place she swore she would never return, or will reprising her role as the ‘black sheep’ of the Wilder clan be too much to handle?
The Voice We Find is a harrowing tale of resilience and redemption. Both main characters, Sophie Wilder and August Tate, have suffered family trauma with lasting effects. While their day to lives have been impacted by said trauma, they have no choice but to persevere.
Combining themes of faith and forgiveness, author Nicole Deese does a fantastic job reminding readers God is in the small details. Therefore, the relationships featured in this novel stress the importance of a supportive community. In addition, the book serves as a modern retelling of popular Biblical stories (the prodigal’s son/ leaving the 99 for the 1).
Needless to say, I enjoyed my time with this novel. I loved that Deese chose to highlight the arts in all formats (theater, voice acting, creating music, etc.). However, the ASL representation was my absolute favorite. As someone who has never personally experienced communicating with someone hard of hearing/ partially/ fully deaf, I found this story to be educational and informative.
Special thanks to Bethany House Publishers and Nicole Deese for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
*After finishing this book I learned this the third book in the Fog Harbor Series. I look forward to reading the first two books in the near future!
**Content Warning: this book deals with heavy topics such as death, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and abuse.
April 8, 2025
Who knew that audiobook narrating, stage performance, and devastating hearing loss could all meld together into one incredible story? Leave it to Nicole to make it happen. And to open up whole worlds that I didn’t know anything about before.
I echo the words of a friend when I say that she has a gift for conveying a story that’s full of grit & grace, all at the same time. The characters in this story felt real to me. They each had their own unique voice, strong personalities, and nuance to their various struggles. Nicole doesn’t shy away from conflict and the characters dealt with their fair share, both without and within. But as they begin to press into the community around them and toward a God whose love never lets them go, they found a grace that allowed them to forgive themselves and others.
The Voice We Find explores meaningful themes of healing faith, found family, communicating when it’s challenging, fighting hard for those you love, and speaking up on behalf of another. For those who have read her other Fog Harbor books, I think this one is on par to be the best.
😇: Christian publisher (Bethany House); strong faith portrayed, themes of forgiveness, redemption, growing in spiritual walk
😍: veiled longing and visual admiration, but kept appropriate; a couple sweet kisses
🤐: no language!
⛔️: panic attack portrayal, tragic accident, abuse referenced but not on-page
Thank you to Nicole Deese & Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
I echo the words of a friend when I say that she has a gift for conveying a story that’s full of grit & grace, all at the same time. The characters in this story felt real to me. They each had their own unique voice, strong personalities, and nuance to their various struggles. Nicole doesn’t shy away from conflict and the characters dealt with their fair share, both without and within. But as they begin to press into the community around them and toward a God whose love never lets them go, they found a grace that allowed them to forgive themselves and others.
The Voice We Find explores meaningful themes of healing faith, found family, communicating when it’s challenging, fighting hard for those you love, and speaking up on behalf of another. For those who have read her other Fog Harbor books, I think this one is on par to be the best.
😇: Christian publisher (Bethany House); strong faith portrayed, themes of forgiveness, redemption, growing in spiritual walk
😍: veiled longing and visual admiration, but kept appropriate; a couple sweet kisses
🤐: no language!
⛔️: panic attack portrayal, tragic accident, abuse referenced but not on-page
Thank you to Nicole Deese & Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
April 8, 2025
4.25⭐️
RELEASE DATE: April 15, 2025
I’m so glad I discovered Nicole Deese’s novels a couple years ago. Call it another bookstagram win! I have only read The Fog Harbor series, and The Voice We Find is number three. I think it just might be my favorite!
(This can be read as a standalone. The connections to the first two books are loose.)
❤️Read this if you love books with:
-Well-developed characters
-Deaf representation
-True-to-life, sweet romance
-Characters who struggle with their faith
-Sibling relationships
🤷♀️Why not five stars? It could have been shorter. There were several scenes that didn’t feel necessary to the plot.
🥰If you enjoyed Nicole’s other books or love Toni Shiloh or Rhonda McKnight, pick this up!
⚠️Profanity: none
Sexual content: 1/5 (kissing only)
Other: Death of parents, toxic parenting, gaslighting
❓What genre best fits your current reading mood?
March 9, 2025
I couldn’t have chosen a better book to start 2025 off with!💗 I predicted this book would be a 5 star and I was right. I read it back in January and I absolutely loved it!
I loved these characters so much! I loved Sophie’s character with her kind heart and compassionate nature. I admired her quiet strength and unique style. I was rooting for her throughout the whole book and loved watching her grow in both her faith and her confidence!
I loved August too! He wasn’t perfect but that’s what made him feel real and so likable. I loved watching him grow throughout this story too.
Sophie and August’s romance was soo sweet! They were absolutley perfect for each other and I could feel it on every page. They’d have me giggling one minute then crying the next.💗
I loved the siblings dynamics between August and Gabby! Their relationship made me so emotional. It was so sweet.🥺 I also loved watching Sophie be accepted into their little family, especially since her relationship with her own family wasn’t great.
I loved the unique plot! I’ve never read a book about an audiobook narrator so that was really fun to read about, especially when the couple gets to narrate an audiobook together.🥰
The faith in this book was absolutely beautiful and definitely a highlight of the book for me! It was so inspiring. I loved a good redemption story and this one had that. I teared up more than once.
In conclusion, I loved this book! It’s definitely going to be a favorite of the year. This book has so much depth to it. It gave me all the feels.💗 If you’re looking for a contemporary read that will make you laugh and cry as well as leave you feeling inspired, I highly recommend this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy to review! All opinions are my own.
I loved these characters so much! I loved Sophie’s character with her kind heart and compassionate nature. I admired her quiet strength and unique style. I was rooting for her throughout the whole book and loved watching her grow in both her faith and her confidence!
I loved August too! He wasn’t perfect but that’s what made him feel real and so likable. I loved watching him grow throughout this story too.
Sophie and August’s romance was soo sweet! They were absolutley perfect for each other and I could feel it on every page. They’d have me giggling one minute then crying the next.💗
I loved the siblings dynamics between August and Gabby! Their relationship made me so emotional. It was so sweet.🥺 I also loved watching Sophie be accepted into their little family, especially since her relationship with her own family wasn’t great.
I loved the unique plot! I’ve never read a book about an audiobook narrator so that was really fun to read about, especially when the couple gets to narrate an audiobook together.🥰
The faith in this book was absolutely beautiful and definitely a highlight of the book for me! It was so inspiring. I loved a good redemption story and this one had that. I teared up more than once.
In conclusion, I loved this book! It’s definitely going to be a favorite of the year. This book has so much depth to it. It gave me all the feels.💗 If you’re looking for a contemporary read that will make you laugh and cry as well as leave you feeling inspired, I highly recommend this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy to review! All opinions are my own.
April 26, 2025
Another fav by Nicole Deese!
I have yet to read a book by Nicole that isn't a 5 star piece of genius. The depth of character, faith, and emotion in August, Sophie, and Gabby's stories was top level as always.
There was also some suspenseful mystery and family drama that added more depth to the redemption side of this story.
The audiobook and theater drama elements were also very fun and unique, and one of my fav scenes and one of the most moving in the whole book combined the theater, audio, faith, and outstanding ASL/deaf rep all into one amazing scene.
As August, Sophie, and Gabby had to confront a lot of devastating events in their pasts and learn how to move forward as a family; I liked how their journeys of growth and healing were all connected back to Christ and faith in God's Word. I fully felt the strength and fight in each character to face the light and find their voice.
I'm eagerly awaiting Nicole's next release, and I hope she keeps writing for a long time!!
❤Romans 8:38❤
I have yet to read a book by Nicole that isn't a 5 star piece of genius. The depth of character, faith, and emotion in August, Sophie, and Gabby's stories was top level as always.
There was also some suspenseful mystery and family drama that added more depth to the redemption side of this story.
The audiobook and theater drama elements were also very fun and unique, and one of my fav scenes and one of the most moving in the whole book combined the theater, audio, faith, and outstanding ASL/deaf rep all into one amazing scene.
As August, Sophie, and Gabby had to confront a lot of devastating events in their pasts and learn how to move forward as a family; I liked how their journeys of growth and healing were all connected back to Christ and faith in God's Word. I fully felt the strength and fight in each character to face the light and find their voice.
I'm eagerly awaiting Nicole's next release, and I hope she keeps writing for a long time!!
❤Romans 8:38❤
February 21, 2025
A beautiful story of love, family, faith and redemption. Though all the main characters were dealing with some sort of trauma in their lives, some lost their way.
There is a strong element of faith woven throughout this story, showing us how the Lord can work in our lives. Sometimes it is through other people. The Lord loves us regardless of our past. We can find a way to heal if we will only let him in.
This is my first book by this author. There is romance, complicated family interactions and even a mystery to be solved. I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts are my own.
There is a strong element of faith woven throughout this story, showing us how the Lord can work in our lives. Sometimes it is through other people. The Lord loves us regardless of our past. We can find a way to heal if we will only let him in.
This is my first book by this author. There is romance, complicated family interactions and even a mystery to be solved. I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts are my own.
December 21, 2024
One of Deese's very best. Excellent book, excellent weaving of themes, faith message that brought me to tears. Highly recommend.
May 15, 2025
“August kisses me the way I imagine he’d compose an original song. Like he’s searching for each right note in a melody only he can hear.”
August and Sophie have such an intriguing, fascinating, and healing story and I’m team #augie all the way. There is so much to unpack in this breathtaking story full of hope and recovery, acceptance of the past and future, and all the complexities regarding relationships and love in its many facets. Nicole Deese is an amazing storyteller and portrays the most beautiful voices.
I was delighted to discover that August has perfect pitch and that Sophie is a former Broadway star. The way they worked together on audiobook narration had me wanting to actually listen to them, but it was their ability to connect through trauma that really solidified my love for them. The pieces of them that engaged with family and with religion anchored their characters to me and to the plot, and allowed for the heavier topics to serve as a bridge to growth and resolution. The romance was believable and the events that propelled them towards their wondrous ending were incredible. Natalie and Gabby were favorite side characters whose stories were woven in so well with our main characters–and I loved the deaf representation.
Although this is a poignant and sweet romance, full of forced proximity and caring for someone, there is so much more depth to the story than I first realized, and it’s even sprinkled with a dash of mystery that made this glittering book a dear favorite.
Content: talk of off-page death, hearing loss, trauma; mild romance; moderate religion
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
August and Sophie have such an intriguing, fascinating, and healing story and I’m team #augie all the way. There is so much to unpack in this breathtaking story full of hope and recovery, acceptance of the past and future, and all the complexities regarding relationships and love in its many facets. Nicole Deese is an amazing storyteller and portrays the most beautiful voices.
I was delighted to discover that August has perfect pitch and that Sophie is a former Broadway star. The way they worked together on audiobook narration had me wanting to actually listen to them, but it was their ability to connect through trauma that really solidified my love for them. The pieces of them that engaged with family and with religion anchored their characters to me and to the plot, and allowed for the heavier topics to serve as a bridge to growth and resolution. The romance was believable and the events that propelled them towards their wondrous ending were incredible. Natalie and Gabby were favorite side characters whose stories were woven in so well with our main characters–and I loved the deaf representation.
Although this is a poignant and sweet romance, full of forced proximity and caring for someone, there is so much more depth to the story than I first realized, and it’s even sprinkled with a dash of mystery that made this glittering book a dear favorite.
Content: talk of off-page death, hearing loss, trauma; mild romance; moderate religion
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
May 4, 2025
Oh my goodness, what a perfectly beautiful story.
I absolutely adored this tender book. The characters are all so good and the premise was just unique. I loved the glimpse into the audiobook narration world and the deaf representation. I love that this book was so centered around God and his love. It is a story of a prodigal son coming home and it is a story of finding love amidst heartache, tragedy and trauma. I loved the real-to-life romance as well.
I will think about this book for awhile.
I am so thankful to the publisher and author for sending me a copy, but all thoughts are my very own.
This book is squeaky clean with not a thing to mention about content. I'd let my mother, grandma, aunt, neighbor, clergy and daughter read this sweet story.
I absolutely adored this tender book. The characters are all so good and the premise was just unique. I loved the glimpse into the audiobook narration world and the deaf representation. I love that this book was so centered around God and his love. It is a story of a prodigal son coming home and it is a story of finding love amidst heartache, tragedy and trauma. I loved the real-to-life romance as well.
I will think about this book for awhile.
I am so thankful to the publisher and author for sending me a copy, but all thoughts are my very own.
This book is squeaky clean with not a thing to mention about content. I'd let my mother, grandma, aunt, neighbor, clergy and daughter read this sweet story.
June 3, 2025
It takes a lot for a book to make me cry, but this book hit all the right notes. It would be difficult to pick which of the books in my series (the first or this one) are my favorite, but this one was really working overtime. I started reading it and almost couldn’t stop. I sped through it in a few days and loved every second of it. The romance between August and Sophie was dreamy, full of yearning, and kept me, the reader, on my toes. While it did have a romance, the book also dealt with difficult topics, such as coming back to Christ after time away, wounds from our family, and how to heal after heartbreak (many different kinds).
This book is part of a series but doesn’t have to be read in order, though I have enjoyed escaping to the world that Deese has created. I would definitely recommend at least reading book one first because there are some characters that show themselves in this book. I can’t wait to dive into more Fog Harbor stories!
This book is part of a series but doesn’t have to be read in order, though I have enjoyed escaping to the world that Deese has created. I would definitely recommend at least reading book one first because there are some characters that show themselves in this book. I can’t wait to dive into more Fog Harbor stories!
March 30, 2025
"But hope is strange thing. It keeps right on living even when you feel like dying."
It's another tear-inducing, heart-warming, completely gratifying novel from Nicole Deese. The author has a gift for creating stories that start with regrets, grief, and heartache but transform into beacons of hope, faith, redemption, and dreams realized. I love her emphasis on community and family, which shone extra brightly in this book.
Sophie and August's first person voices were honest, down-to-earth, and relatable. Their banter was witty and clever and showed how resilient they are in the aftermath of loss and grief. I loved Sophie's gift for theatre and August's gift for music. I learned quite a bit about music and audiobook production, deaf community in theatre, and management of a winery which were all fascinating. Gabby's first person voice through her voice memos were precious and allowed the reader to see into her heart. Faith thread was strong throughout the book and it was wonderful to see Sophie take baby steps and August to find forgiveness and mercy. The voices that each of the main and secondary characters find are memorable and treasure-worthy. But I am still waiting for my story about Chip, the editor at Fog Harbor, and I'm hoping his story is next.
This is a must-read if you are looking for a contemporary romance that will make you laugh, cry, and burst with joy. It's one of my top 2025 reads. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
It's another tear-inducing, heart-warming, completely gratifying novel from Nicole Deese. The author has a gift for creating stories that start with regrets, grief, and heartache but transform into beacons of hope, faith, redemption, and dreams realized. I love her emphasis on community and family, which shone extra brightly in this book.
Sophie and August's first person voices were honest, down-to-earth, and relatable. Their banter was witty and clever and showed how resilient they are in the aftermath of loss and grief. I loved Sophie's gift for theatre and August's gift for music. I learned quite a bit about music and audiobook production, deaf community in theatre, and management of a winery which were all fascinating. Gabby's first person voice through her voice memos were precious and allowed the reader to see into her heart. Faith thread was strong throughout the book and it was wonderful to see Sophie take baby steps and August to find forgiveness and mercy. The voices that each of the main and secondary characters find are memorable and treasure-worthy. But I am still waiting for my story about Chip, the editor at Fog Harbor, and I'm hoping his story is next.
This is a must-read if you are looking for a contemporary romance that will make you laugh, cry, and burst with joy. It's one of my top 2025 reads. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2025
I am such a Nicole Deese fan. I devoured her last three books like I was starving. And with each one I told myself I could NOT wait for the next.
Well this is the "next" book. And how did I get it? In the mail. I am a Goodreads winner for the very book I have been waiting to come out.
Mind you, I’m one of those weirdos who read a couple hundred books a year, but only in Kindle or audio format.
Now, two ironies: One, obviously, is that this is paper form (ugh). The other is that The Voice We Find is about an audiobook narrator.
Ha! Isn’t that rich?
This will be momentous. I will have to hold it open constantly (ugh) and lose my place a million times before I finish it. But for this, it will be worth it!
*****************************************
Well, I have to admit, the last thing I said ⬆️ was so true. It was completely worth holding that book open for hours, but I was smart and had an envelope I was taking notes on as a book mark. However, this is the first book I’ve underlined in besides my Bible in many years..
I often begin my reviews with main characters so I don’t forget them when I look back on my books.
August Tate: Owner of a home recording studio
Gabby: His teenage adopted sister (with profound hearing loss)
Chip Stanton: August's best friend (also in The Roads We Travelled)
Sophie Wilder: Just returned from NY after a tragedy in her acting career
Dana: Sophie's best friend ever, and huge emotional support
Jasper and Natalie: Sophie's awful brother and hard to figure out sister-in-law
Tyler Pimentel: Gabby's crush, completely deaf
Allie Spencer: Author of the fantasy book Sophie is narrating (also in The Roads We Travelled)
I think I’ve said this about every book so far, and I’ve meant it every time, but this is truly my favorite book in this series. Even for this year. Nicole Deese has completely outdone herself! What a writer!!!
This was a long book, but like East of Eden it was long because it needed to be. In many long books I skip ahead, or I wish it would just be over already. In The Voice We Find there was not a scene, event, conversation or page I would have eliminated. It just couldn’t be done. Brevity would have ruined this astounding work.
Just so you know, I’m not a gusher. If I gush, it’s only for something I just can’t get over. This is a book for which I will buy the audio version so I can enjoy it once again when I’m traveling.
Okay, to set the scene without giving much away. You really want to get all the enjoyment you can out of this book.
August Tate is a man plagued with guilt and regrets. His parents and little sister were in an accident resulting in the death of his mom and dad and pretty serious injury to his sister, Gabby. The guilt he suffers is because he didn’t go on the trip with them. At that time his life was not one honoring to God. This also left him angry with God as much as himself. So to make up for it, he’s doing everything he can for Gabby, including leaving his lucrative music producing business in LA to move back home with her, and going into debt with operations and hearing aids, as the accident left Gabby with severely declining hearing ability.
Sophie Wilder is a performance artist, both acting and singing. After nearly ten years in New York City an incident brought that dream to a screeching halt. Tail tucked between her legs, she had to return to California, to the family owned winery, to a family that never appreciated her. If anything they constantly berated her.
An editor friend of August's brought them together for a collaboration to narrate a lengthy fantasy book in August's recording studio.
This began a change in three lives (August, Sophie, and Gabby), none of which would have believed possible.
Beautiful!! Many cleansing tears in this book. What an inspiration.
Recommend this book? Oh yes! As often as I can!
Well this is the "next" book. And how did I get it? In the mail. I am a Goodreads winner for the very book I have been waiting to come out.
Mind you, I’m one of those weirdos who read a couple hundred books a year, but only in Kindle or audio format.
Now, two ironies: One, obviously, is that this is paper form (ugh). The other is that The Voice We Find is about an audiobook narrator.
Ha! Isn’t that rich?
This will be momentous. I will have to hold it open constantly (ugh) and lose my place a million times before I finish it. But for this, it will be worth it!
*****************************************
Well, I have to admit, the last thing I said ⬆️ was so true. It was completely worth holding that book open for hours, but I was smart and had an envelope I was taking notes on as a book mark. However, this is the first book I’ve underlined in besides my Bible in many years..
I often begin my reviews with main characters so I don’t forget them when I look back on my books.
August Tate: Owner of a home recording studio
Gabby: His teenage adopted sister (with profound hearing loss)
Chip Stanton: August's best friend (also in The Roads We Travelled)
Sophie Wilder: Just returned from NY after a tragedy in her acting career
Dana: Sophie's best friend ever, and huge emotional support
Jasper and Natalie: Sophie's awful brother and hard to figure out sister-in-law
Tyler Pimentel: Gabby's crush, completely deaf
Allie Spencer: Author of the fantasy book Sophie is narrating (also in The Roads We Travelled)
I think I’ve said this about every book so far, and I’ve meant it every time, but this is truly my favorite book in this series. Even for this year. Nicole Deese has completely outdone herself! What a writer!!!
This was a long book, but like East of Eden it was long because it needed to be. In many long books I skip ahead, or I wish it would just be over already. In The Voice We Find there was not a scene, event, conversation or page I would have eliminated. It just couldn’t be done. Brevity would have ruined this astounding work.
Just so you know, I’m not a gusher. If I gush, it’s only for something I just can’t get over. This is a book for which I will buy the audio version so I can enjoy it once again when I’m traveling.
Okay, to set the scene without giving much away. You really want to get all the enjoyment you can out of this book.
August Tate is a man plagued with guilt and regrets. His parents and little sister were in an accident resulting in the death of his mom and dad and pretty serious injury to his sister, Gabby. The guilt he suffers is because he didn’t go on the trip with them. At that time his life was not one honoring to God. This also left him angry with God as much as himself. So to make up for it, he’s doing everything he can for Gabby, including leaving his lucrative music producing business in LA to move back home with her, and going into debt with operations and hearing aids, as the accident left Gabby with severely declining hearing ability.
Sophie Wilder is a performance artist, both acting and singing. After nearly ten years in New York City an incident brought that dream to a screeching halt. Tail tucked between her legs, she had to return to California, to the family owned winery, to a family that never appreciated her. If anything they constantly berated her.
An editor friend of August's brought them together for a collaboration to narrate a lengthy fantasy book in August's recording studio.
This began a change in three lives (August, Sophie, and Gabby), none of which would have believed possible.
Beautiful!! Many cleansing tears in this book. What an inspiration.
Recommend this book? Oh yes! As often as I can!
April 21, 2025
I knew I was going to love this book from the dedication and verse at the beginning. It was for everyone “who has ever prayed for a prodigal’s return.” And my life verse: Romans 8:38 & 39.
Every time I read a book by this author, I know I am in for a beautiful story full of real life problems with heavenly solutions. This was such a vital look at how we see ourselves and how others see us and accept us or not. The author gives a clear Gospel message that not only how Jesus saves us but how He sees us and loves us unconditionally. How He has plans for our lives that use the gifts that He has given us. And how “God works in every circumstance in our lives. Even the hardest ones.”
I appreciated Gabby and her hearing loss and the American Sign Language aspect of the story. The peek into voicing audio books was really interesting.
Ms. Deese is not afraid to write about thorny family issues such as Sophie, August and Gabby were facing, and offering God as the remedy.
This was another skillfully written book that offered realistic characters, a wonderful romance, family discord, supportive friends and even a little intrigue.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Every time I read a book by this author, I know I am in for a beautiful story full of real life problems with heavenly solutions. This was such a vital look at how we see ourselves and how others see us and accept us or not. The author gives a clear Gospel message that not only how Jesus saves us but how He sees us and loves us unconditionally. How He has plans for our lives that use the gifts that He has given us. And how “God works in every circumstance in our lives. Even the hardest ones.”
I appreciated Gabby and her hearing loss and the American Sign Language aspect of the story. The peek into voicing audio books was really interesting.
Ms. Deese is not afraid to write about thorny family issues such as Sophie, August and Gabby were facing, and offering God as the remedy.
This was another skillfully written book that offered realistic characters, a wonderful romance, family discord, supportive friends and even a little intrigue.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
May 11, 2025
I read/listened to this book in one day! The story was phenomenal! It is a story about characters who find their way home… literally and spiritually! It also deals with a character who has a disability and what one of the characters must do to adjust to this new normal. I hope that we will get more Fog Harbor books.
Nicole Deese is great at weaving in faith and dealing with hard topics. This book deals with several hard hitting issues, but all well done. Both of the main characters must come to terms their new situations and much of the book deals with this.
My one complaint about my reading experience today had nothing to do with the book itself, but had all to do with the quality of the audiobook. I found it ironic that this book deals with audiobook narration and recording and yet this one was poorly done. The narrators were okay (with the exception of a weird pronunciation of Gigi a couple of times by the female narrator- all other times it was pronounced normally even by the same narrator). I am referring to the actual recording quality. Parts of it sounds like it was recorded differently than others, sometimes louder and sometimes it sounded like they were in a barrel. Overall, the narration was not edited and mixed very well- I think more so the female narrator’s parts. That being said, I would listen to this book again, I just feel like this book deserves better quality.
Again, this writing of this book is so deep and yet it is still so readable. It is full of faith but does not come across as preachy. I would recommend this book to those who love contemporary romance books that deal with some harder topics. If books that deal with loss of a parent or crippling anxiety bother you then maybe skip this one.
Nicole Deese is great at weaving in faith and dealing with hard topics. This book deals with several hard hitting issues, but all well done. Both of the main characters must come to terms their new situations and much of the book deals with this.
My one complaint about my reading experience today had nothing to do with the book itself, but had all to do with the quality of the audiobook. I found it ironic that this book deals with audiobook narration and recording and yet this one was poorly done. The narrators were okay (with the exception of a weird pronunciation of Gigi a couple of times by the female narrator- all other times it was pronounced normally even by the same narrator). I am referring to the actual recording quality. Parts of it sounds like it was recorded differently than others, sometimes louder and sometimes it sounded like they were in a barrel. Overall, the narration was not edited and mixed very well- I think more so the female narrator’s parts. That being said, I would listen to this book again, I just feel like this book deserves better quality.
Again, this writing of this book is so deep and yet it is still so readable. It is full of faith but does not come across as preachy. I would recommend this book to those who love contemporary romance books that deal with some harder topics. If books that deal with loss of a parent or crippling anxiety bother you then maybe skip this one.
May 1, 2025
Well well well, what do you know…another favorite. I’ll have to come back and write down all that I loved but for now it’s important to note that this is a must read from Mrs. Deese.
Rereading and now I can share my thoughts. I just loved this story so much and for a while it was hard to pinpoint what exactly about it I loved. But I think it’s the reality of the relationships. I love how Nicole writes characters and their conflicts. It feels so real and it never gives off cheesy vibes. I loved August’s character development throughout the story and it was really unique to read from the point of view of a young adult taking on the responsibility of parenting a younger sibling.
The incorporation of ASL, theater, and the behind the scenes look into how audiobooks are made was really interesting. I loved the dynamic between August and Sophie working together. They both had lives outside their relationship but the story telling the weaved it all together was just stunning. I really love the Fog Harbor series and there is not a single one that will disappoint. A must read, easy 5 stars!
Rereading and now I can share my thoughts. I just loved this story so much and for a while it was hard to pinpoint what exactly about it I loved. But I think it’s the reality of the relationships. I love how Nicole writes characters and their conflicts. It feels so real and it never gives off cheesy vibes. I loved August’s character development throughout the story and it was really unique to read from the point of view of a young adult taking on the responsibility of parenting a younger sibling.
The incorporation of ASL, theater, and the behind the scenes look into how audiobooks are made was really interesting. I loved the dynamic between August and Sophie working together. They both had lives outside their relationship but the story telling the weaved it all together was just stunning. I really love the Fog Harbor series and there is not a single one that will disappoint. A must read, easy 5 stars!
May 29, 2025
I really liked the unique voice told in this story. I don't think I have ever read a book that was set around the audiobook industry. I also really liked the added touches of mystery to it. I liked the characters and the setting as well. Nicole Deese knows how to write gripping characters with a satisfying ending. 3.5⭐
*thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
*thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
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