by Melissa Tagg
Miranda spends her free time volunteering at a local shelter for children and helping a family in need. Matthew is determined to help fund his niece’s much-needed surgery. What special cause or need is close to your heart?
In chapter 11, Matthew asks Miranda why she kept up the charade of her marriage. Why didn’t she come out with the truth long ago? Miranda blurts out, “Because I wanted to, all right?” What truth is she facing in that moment? How do you think admitting that out loud affected her? How about Matthew?
Also in chapter 11, Miranda reads Psalm 138:8: “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands.” Have you ever felt abandoned? How have you seen God fulfill His purpose for you?
When Matthew learns the truth about Miranda’s marriage, he agrees to keep the secret for the time being. Was that the right move? Should he have spilled the truth right away in his blog?
In chapter 12, Matthew and Jase talk about the closing of Jase’s gallery. Matthew realizes that while his brother let go of one dream, he found a new one. Have you ever had to let go of a dream? Describe that process. Have you found a new dream?
When Miranda is on stage at the Giving Heart Awards, her intention was to finally tell the truth about her “marriage” and admit her feelings for Matthew. But, of course, that doesn’t go as planned. What do you think would have happened if it had gone as planned?
At the end of Made to Last, Miranda learns the network may be willing to give her another shot with a fourth season. But then she risks that chance by allowing Matthew’s article to be published. What do you think that sacrifice meant to her? Was it the right move? Could she have tried to save her show and reconnect with Matthew?
Although he’s one of the goofier characters in the story, it’s clear Blake “Blaze” Hunziker has a past of his own. At the end of Made to Last, we learn he’s now heading home. What do you think is waiting for him there? Have you ever had to face something hard in your past?
Melissa Tagg is a former reporter and total Iowa girl. In addition to her homeless-ministry day job, she is also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft-and-coaching community for writers. When she’s not writing, she can be found hanging out with the coolest family ever, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next book. She’s passionate about humor, grace, and happy endings. Melissa blogs regularly and loves connecting with readers at www.melissatagg.com.
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