With You Beside Me - Book 3 in The Water's Edge Christian Romance Series
With You Beside Me - Book 3 in The Water's Edge Christian Romance Series
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 600+ 5-Star-Reviews
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SYNOPSIS
SYNOPSIS
With You Beside Me is Book 3 in the Water’s Edge Christian Romance Series, a contemporary Christian Romance series set in the coastal fictional town of Water's Edge, south of Sydney.
When doctor Anthony reluctantly takes a job in a small coastal town, he meets beautiful Francesca — a woman who has experienced her own fair share of tragedy. With God’s guidance, can they find the strength to open their hearts to new love? An uplifting Christian romance!
A doctor on a mission, a young woman wrestling with God, and an illness that touches the entire town…
Driven by a personal tragedy after his father's major stroke, Anthony Petersen's aspiration was to become a medical doctor, aiming to combat the early onset of such a devastating condition. However, life's unexpected turns land him far from his dream job in a bustling city hospital, positioning him instead as an assistant to an elderly doctor in the quaint, close-knit coastal town of Water’s Edge, a place where everyone's life is intertwined. Here, amidst his bewilderment at God's plan for him, Anthony encounters Francesca, whose radiant beauty and spirit challenge him to question whether her presence is the reason behind his unforeseen journey to Water's Edge.
Chapter One - Look Inside
Chapter One - Look Inside
As he drove into the township of Water’s Edge, Anthony Petersen’s heart sank. The sleepy seaside town south of Sydney was even tinier than he’d expected.
Ugh. Being a small-town doctor wasn’t what he’d hoped for in his first job after graduating, and he wouldn’t even be the primary doctor. He’d be working under Dr. Samuel Turner, a physician the town had relied on for years. Wonderful. Just wonderful. Did this sleepy joint even have enough people to justify two doctors?
He peered left and right as he passed a strip of shops and cafés, many brightened by cheery awnings, hanging baskets, and planter boxes filled with colourful blooms and serving as a buffer between the footpath and the road. Quaint. But he wasn’t after quaint.
The clinic was at the far end of the strip, and his heart sank further as he parked his Mazda 3 hatchback in front of a house. A freshly painted teal-blue house, but a house, nonetheless. A far cry from the modern city hospital he’d expected to be working in after six long years at university.
But beggars couldn’t be choosers, and he should be grateful he had a job. At least, he’d told himself that often enough. Maybe he’d start believing it soon.
Peeling his long legs out of the car, he stepped onto the footpath and stretched, then moved aside as a young woman pushing a pram walked by. She offered a shy smile.
He gave a nod. Hmm. Through the gap between the shops across the road, a sliver of blue sparkled. The ocean. If he strained his ears, was that whoosh the sound of waves? He might be imagining it, but he wasn’t imagining the salty tang in the air.
Hmph. Living near the sea might compensate for being overlooked for the research scholarship he’d wanted. Unlikely, but it had to be better than living in a town with no redeeming features.
Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself and loped up the four timber steps to the front door while eyeing the switchback ramp access off to the side. Ideal or not, he needed this job. With a hefty student loan, child support payments for his two teenage children, and parents needing financial help, he had no option but to stick it out until something better came along, whenever that might be.
At the top of the steps, he studied the church along the road, only recognisable as such because of the cross, a beacon high above the surrounding buildings.
Shouldn’t such a small town have an equally small, old-fashioned church? This construction was slick. He craned to see how far back it stretched. Wowsers. It seemed to be a community centre. Perhaps it was. How many churches had a basketball court out back?
Maybe the town wasn’t so sleepy after all.
And maybe God brought him here for a reason. A groan escaped. How many times had he argued with God about this, pleading with Him to release a position, any position, at the hospital where he’d trained, where he belonged, although a research scholarship was his preferred option? After all, that alone motivated him to sacrifice six years of his life, pulling eighteen-hour days, wearing himself thin. It even cost him his family.
At this point, any job in the hospital would have been acceptable.
But God had remained silent, and a hospital position hadn’t materialised.
To stifle a groan, Anthony huffed the air from his lungs. Okay, maybe that was a groan. Lord, I’m sorry for my attitude. Help me to be grateful for this job and to embrace this town You’ve brought me to. You know me better than I know myself, and You know what’s good for me, although I can’t help thinking You’ve made a mistake.
His shoulders drooped. There I go again. I’m sorry, Lord. Please help me understand why You’ve brought me here.
Adjusting his tie, he lifted his chin and stepped into the clinic’s empty waiting room.
A young dark-haired woman behind the reception desk looked up. “Hello. Can I help you?”
Anthony returned her smile. “Ah, yes. I have a meeting with Dr. Turner.”
With a frown, she peered into the computer monitor before turning back to him. “I’m sorry. I don’t seem to have any appointment booked. Could you tell me your name, please?”
He cleared his throat. “Anthony Petersen. Dr. Anthony Petersen.”
Her face pinked. “Oh. I’m so sorry. Dr Turner’s expecting you. Take a seat, and I’ll tell him you’re here.”
“No need, Emily.” An older man of medium height, his silver-rimmed glasses accentuating his greying hair and neatly clipped moustache, stood in the hall entrance. Dr. Turner. Stepping forward, he extended his hand. “Anthony, welcome to Water’s Edge.”
Main Tropes
- Christian Romance
- Heartwarming
- Inspiring

What Readers Say....
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This writer NEVER disappoints!' The fragility of life, the depth of hurt and trauma that most people go through, is described in a way that you experience it with the character.The newness and joy, also the questions on the faith journey are all handled with so much insight, that it even answers or explains it with much clarity!" MT
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"One thing I have always loved about these books are that the author is not afraid to take on real life problems. The characters lives are not perfect. I can empathize with them and find myself thinking I’d like to be their friend." CRT reader
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This is another great series from this author. She likes to write about "real" life. She is not one to shy away from hard subjects. And, one thing I really like about this author, is the faith that runs throughout the story. I highly recommend these books." Mary S
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Every book/series by Juliette Duncan that I read gets better and better. This series was very uplifting & full of hope. Just like Jesus lifts us up and gives us new life, a hope & a future.
I have read many of Juilette's books and have trouble putting it down. They are so easy to read and have a great Christian message in them for everyday situations. This last book, Till I met you, is another example of an author that puts true life experiences to print.
A word story of God's love. Amelia Anderson met Charlotte Brown ànd she took her to church, gave her a job and found her a place to live. Willow Kelly let Amelia move in with her. She met Luke Kelly ,Willows brother and youth pastor. God brought them together and Amelia was saved. This is a great series.I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
When I Met You is a story of redemption wrapped in a sweet heart warming romance. I loved the main characters, Lucas and Amelia. Finding out their stories of faith and their dealings with the feelings of unworthiness made for a book well-worth reading. The romance between the two is swoon-worthy. I loved the welcoming attitude of their church community.
I highly recommend Juliette Duncan's story to readers of Christian romance and to anyone that is struggling with issues of their worth.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this well-written romance.
Love this series set in Water’s Edge. It could be any of the small seaside towns south of Shellharbour NSW where I live! Even to the new marina in Shell Cove! The people are so real, and have become my friends. Juliette’s writings are so easy to read, and her Gospel heart shines through. So nice to have Christian novels set in Australia! Thank you Juliette.
In His time and His Way are the foundation for everything in our lives. Not to say we don’t have to do our part and not waiting for life to be less hectic (a clean plate); just follow where He leads to. Our Lord wants only what is best for you! I loved the reminder of all is good according to His will.
Again the practicalities of life embraced through faith. So appreciative of the prayers included ..so meaningful to me. Love that I don't have to worry about inappropriate language or situations. Thank you. You leave me wanting more, too short!!
Juliette has an amazing gift of making her people in her book seem like these are true stories true feelings and most often be fit into most readers lives. Thank you for your comfort, wisdom and love you give in ALL your books.
I loved the total transformation of Amelia’s character as she grew in her relationship with God and her understanding of his great love for her. Anyone reading this story can be encouraged in their own faith journey, growing in dependence on God.
I loved the additional strength that came through the gentle compassion Amelia received from Charlotte, Willow, Lucas and the community of friends and family. We all need each other, and she learned to give that same gift of love that she was shown. I hope you will be encouraged when you walk with Amelia into the path the Lord opened for her.
- 5 stars: 55 (96%)
- 4 stars: 2 (4%)
- 3 stars: 0 (0%)
- 2 stars: 0 (0%)
- 1 star: 0 (0%)
Every book/series by Juliette Duncan that I read gets better and better. This series was very uplifting & full of hope. Just like Jesus lifts us up and gives us new life, a hope & a future.
I have read many of Juilette's books and have trouble putting it down. They are so easy to read and have a great Christian message in them for everyday situations. This last book, Till I met you, is another example of an author that puts true life experiences to print.
A word story of God's love. Amelia Anderson met Charlotte Brown ànd she took her to church, gave her a job and found her a place to live. Willow Kelly let Amelia move in with her. She met Luke Kelly ,Willows brother and youth pastor. God brought them together and Amelia was saved. This is a great series.I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
When I Met You is a story of redemption wrapped in a sweet heart warming romance. I loved the main characters, Lucas and Amelia. Finding out their stories of faith and their dealings with the feelings of unworthiness made for a book well-worth reading. The romance between the two is swoon-worthy. I loved the welcoming attitude of their church community.
I highly recommend Juliette Duncan's story to readers of Christian romance and to anyone that is struggling with issues of their worth.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this well-written romance.
Love this series set in Water’s Edge. It could be any of the small seaside towns south of Shellharbour NSW where I live! Even to the new marina in Shell Cove! The people are so real, and have become my friends. Juliette’s writings are so easy to read, and her Gospel heart shines through. So nice to have Christian novels set in Australia! Thank you Juliette.
In His time and His Way are the foundation for everything in our lives. Not to say we don’t have to do our part and not waiting for life to be less hectic (a clean plate); just follow where He leads to. Our Lord wants only what is best for you! I loved the reminder of all is good according to His will.
Again the practicalities of life embraced through faith. So appreciative of the prayers included ..so meaningful to me. Love that I don't have to worry about inappropriate language or situations. Thank you. You leave me wanting more, too short!!
Juliette has an amazing gift of making her people in her book seem like these are true stories true feelings and most often be fit into most readers lives. Thank you for your comfort, wisdom and love you give in ALL your books.
I loved the total transformation of Amelia’s character as she grew in her relationship with God and her understanding of his great love for her. Anyone reading this story can be encouraged in their own faith journey, growing in dependence on God.
I loved the additional strength that came through the gentle compassion Amelia received from Charlotte, Willow, Lucas and the community of friends and family. We all need each other, and she learned to give that same gift of love that she was shown. I hope you will be encouraged when you walk with Amelia into the path the Lord opened for her.
God's grace is truly amazing ! This story proves the grace that is given to us through redemption in Christ.
Juliette Duncan has written a story of God's love and forgiveness. The things that Amelia had done reminded me of some of my own life experiences. It's truly a humbling feeling to know our sins are forgiven when we turn to God. I like the way Juliette Duncan teaches her readers with bible verses and good Christian examples. This is Book 1 of the Water's Edge series and is a stand-alone story with a Happy-Ever-After ending. I'm looking forward to Book 2, Because of You.
I was given an ARC from the author. This review is my honest opinion, freely given.
Water's Edge sounded like a wonderful town of people who shared God's love and accepted people as they are, faults and all. Enjoyed the story so much of Amelia finding Christ and continuing to grow in het faith. Charlotte and Willow were unique characters who took Amelia under their wing and Ienjoyed their personalities so much. God brought Lucas and Amelia together, another example of overflowing blessings he gives us if we believe.
Juliette Duncan did it again! What a wonderful story of how God can use anybody no matter what their life has been like in the past. Amelia had basically been on her on most of her life and she had move from town to town since she left home. She never planned to attend church but she was ready for a charge, boy was she in for a surprise. I promise you, you will love this book from start to finish & you will love all the people you will meet a long the way. Juliette just has a way of drawing you in & making you part of her story, you just can't help yourself. So purchase the book, grab a cup of coffee & sit back & enjoy!
I received this Advance copy for free, but all thoughts & reviews are my own & I gave it of my own free. I have always enjoyed Juliette's book before I became part of her team.
The first book has hooked me the love I felt from this first book was so amazing. I can’t wait to read the rest of them
Thank You for the story
Every book I have read is uplifting and you really feel like you are part of the story. Lovely clean, warm and encouraging. Love them. Thank you Juliette.
I just finished the Water’s Edge series. Wow! I loved every single one! Juliet is not afraid to build characters that are real and go through the same struggles we face in our lives. The difference in her books is the fact that she brings Jesus into each character’s life! He is the way, the truth and the life! I love that she puts scriptures in her books! I feel God’s love when I read her books! I highly recommend her books!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Once again Juliette Duncan writes a beautiful story that lets you know that by weathering the stormy seas of our lives with God as our help mate, we can come out the other side, often times in a direction we didn’t know we needed to go! But God knows the plans he has for us. We just need to stop & listen, & trust in His guidance!! God bless you Juliette in your writing!
Good story.
I've loved reading the entire Water's Edge series - Juliette Duncan brought everyone in her stories to life, showing how God's love impacts the person who accepts Him and changes the lives of everyone around them. I'm looking forward to reading her next series!
I am amazed how God is using the stories to speak to my heart. It has happened many times.
Yesterday was a very difficult time for me and when I opened the book it was about the very problem I was facing. This happened several times. The scriptural applications and counseling ministered to my needs.
I almost stopped reading the books as I had to read some specific books but when I finished one I felt I needed to go back to Juliette’s books. I find them the best way to relax.
May God continue to guide you Juliette as you seek Him in what you write.
Book 4 of the Water's Edge Christian romance series continues to bring the people of Water's Edge alive in a very relatable way, as well as sharing Ryan and Kylie's story. If you haven't read any of the series, do yourself a favour and buy it.
I loved this beautiful story of redemption and look forward to reading the next in the series.
Charlotte, s Christian, stops to offer help to a barmaid. She offers Amelia a job and finds her a place to live with Willow. As Amelia transforms from a life of sin to a Christian life of forgiveness and transformation, she learns to forgive herself and trust the answers to her prayers. Lucas, Willow’s brother, is back to a Godly life and is now youth pastor of Water’s Edge Community church. They are attracted to each other, praying about their relationship. When Amelia’s mother calls, Amelia goes to help her. They are able to restore their relationship.
Excellent faith story.
I enjoyed every book in this series, as in other series from this author. However, the last book I particularly enjoyed as the couple were older, and they each could use their faithful lives lived into their golden years together. I love the way this author shows in her writing that she can write from experience and can draw the readers in to want to experience her joy. RK
Bronte's husband was a troubled veteran who tried to drown his problems in alcohol - and died in a drunk road accident. Her life now revolves around her neuro-divergent son - even more so when she has to pull him out of school where he was not coping and homeschool him. Daniel is the new pastor, a widower with a troubled alcoholic brother, and Bronte is one of the few that understands the issues. A strongly Christian book with lots of praying, with likeable characters with real life ongoing problems that are not instantly solved rather managed with much prayer and help from others. I received an ARC but this review is my own.