Made to Last 

Paperback, ebook 

September 15, 2013

by Melissa Tagg

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
• ISBN-13: 978-0764211324

Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that's how it looks when she's starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she'll do anything to boost ratings and save her show--even if it means pretending to be married to a man who's definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.

When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda's every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth--and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she's built come crashing down just as she's found a love to last?

My thoughts:  Ms. Tagg is a fresh new voice in Christian fiction with MADE TO LAST. I liked the snarky attitude that Randi sports, and the fact that Matthew is trying to do the right thing and take care of his niece who needs an expensive surgery. He doesn't want to do "celebrity blogs" but if this will pay for the surgery he will--especially since he blew his chance at a high profile political announcement. 

Randi is pretending to be married, but the sparks fly between Randi and Matthew -- sort of -- there were a lot more sparks between Randi and Blaze but *that* scenerio was too cliche so (I think) the author axed the idea. Blaze would've been a much better husband--he was kind and considerate of Randi, he looked out for her and *sigh*. I loved his character. I'm looking forward to reading his story. 

It bothered me that Matthew was attracted to a "married woman" even though he doesn't act on that attraction until he learns the truth (a plus). He does flirt with her behind her "husband's" back.  It also bothered me that the whole premise was based on a major lie and the lies kept building. The faith message was weak. The heroine thought about going to church occasionally but that is pretty much it. (I think the point is that your identity is complete in Christ.) 

However, that said, the story is fresh, the snark is top-notch, and the humor is great!  3.5 stars.