Review: Tied to the Soul

Tied to the Soul by Eva G. Headley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Book Summary
Ria Jackson thought she was making the right choice when she relocates to New York to fulfil her dream. She leaves behind the love of her life Shawn Matthews in Los Angeles. What she soon finds out is her choice to leave brings about devastating effects. Left alone Shawn Matthews reunites with Andrea Lasalle 'a rebound'. They become lovers quickly but Shawn cannot get Ria out of his mind-she has a hold on him. Shawn's loyalty to his brother Kenny is put to the test when Shawn find's out he is a drug addict. After a heated scuffle Shawn kicks Kenny out of his home, in order for Kenny to get a life. This leaves Kenny on the streets looking for revenge. Andrea thinks she has the man of her dreams but fails to realise to have him she will lose her own soul and become a possessive lover. When Ria returns to Los Angeles a love triangle forms between Ria, Shawn and Andrea. Weeks before a wedding tragedy hits leading everyone to believe it was a murder not an accident.

My ReviewThis book was a little all over the place. There were several things going on 1) a relationship, 2)addiction and 3) questionable friendships. The book's main character, Ria, is in a relationship with Shawn Matthews when her dream job gets offered to her, but she has to move to NY. After accepting this job she goes through some life changes but refuses to discuss them with Shawn whom she is still in love with. She eventually ends up back in California but Shawn has moved on and she still holds on to her secret which creates all sorts of problem. Between Shawn's new relationship and fake friends, Ria's life spends out of control. It's not until she starts being truthful that things get back on track. When unexpected tragedy occurs, Shawn and Ria's lives change forever. The author did a good job of telling the story including adding drama and backstabbing in the appropriate places. Ha ha! The climax to me occurred late in the story but it was emotional and appropriate for this story. Overall, it was a good read.

From a Christian PerspectiveWell there were certain situations in this book that had unexpected consequences. As Christians we know that should we choose to live in and with our sin, there will be consequences. Ria had to face the consequences of her relationship with Shawn. I struggled with the faith as it was presented in this book. It was sort of an afterthought, but on the other hand I don't think this was meant to be a Christian novel. Throughout the book there was forgiveness which did add a nice touch to the story. I would recommend this book for mature audiences due to the fact that some of the situations are mature.

This was a book from my personal collection, all opinions expressed are my own.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Hazardous Duty

Hazardous Duty by Christy Barritt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hazardous Duty

Book Summary
On her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire dropped out of school and started her own crime scene cleaning business. Now, when a routine cleaning job leads her to a murder weapon the police overlooked, she realizes that the wrong man is in jail. With the help of her new and attractively single neighbor, Riley Thomas, Gabby plays the detective to make sure the right man is put behind bars.

Hazardous Duty
This book was surprisingly very good. I admit my strategy is to read a cheesy book in between really good ones and I kind of thought this was one. However, it ended up having a lot of depth and really was a good read. Gabby's character has been through a lot in life. While it didn't go into details of all that had happened, it was interesting how the author tied everything together. The supporting characters, Sierra, Riley, Parker, and even Veronica were great!! The story line was continuously moving up to and through the climax. I didn't really know until the end who did it but my interest was definitely peaked when a surprise murder happened. I thought the author did a wonderful job of tying everything together.

From a Christian Perspective
I think the Christian aspect is what surprised me the most. Gabby doesn't believe in God. It was interesting to see her journey to faith. One line that stood out the most was "Life hadn't pointed me toward a loving God." And even more so Riley's response later on "I mean sometimes we assume that life is a reflection of God. But it's not. Life is this way because God gave us a choice, and, as humans, we screw up." These two line stood out for me because it's SO TRUE. So many times we shake our head at the horrors in this world, and wonder how it could happen. But we have to remember that Jesus never told us that being a Christian would protect or shield us from the horrors of this world! However he does remind us in John 16:33 that He has overcome the world. That is the faith that we need to hold on. As the series proceeds I look forward to Gabby grabbing hold of this and having the peace she desires!

This was a book from my personal collection, all opinions expressed are my own!

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers by Catherine Palmer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Finders Keepers

Book Summary
Antiques dealer Elizabeth Hayes hopes to expand her shop by purchasing and refurbishing the Chalmers House next door. Zachary Chalmers, an architect who recently inherited the house, wants to tear it down and build an office. The resulting feud drags the town into a battle of historic value vs. personal property. The only one who doesn't care is Nikolai Hayes, Elizabeth's adopted Romanian son. He's interested in persuading Zachary to be his father and in listening to Boompah's stories of the "nachos" who tyrannized Europe during World War II. Nikolai's endearing attempts to master English provide levity in a romance that tackles deeper issues than land rights.

My Review
I enjoyed the story of Elizabeth, Nikolai, Zachary and of course Boompah! This was a sweet romance with other elements to make the story interesting. Apparently Elizabeth's beloved neighbor held onto a lot of secrets before her death. As her nephew Zachary comes to claim the property she left to him, he finds out he has more on his hands than he bargained for. Young Nikolai is still adjusting to English and his mistakes with the language are endearing at first, but become a little tedious as the story goes on. I have to say this story is so typical of a small town where everyone knows everyone's business. And there is always that one person that wants to make the town modern! In the end, the characters are able to pull together and get the happy ending! Delightful story great for any age.

From a Christian Perspective
You could tell that faith was important to Elizabeth and Nikolai. It was woven throughout the story in so many creative ways! I loved how Nikolai took the bible to the park with them to help with the search. His faith as a child was so complete it really made me think. Jesus did tell us to come to Him as a child (Matthew 18:3-5) and the innocence of that faith is so pure. I think Nick could have paid a little more attention to honor their parents but I'm sure as he matured he did

Overall this was a pleasant and enjoyable story.

This was a book from my personal collection, opinions expressed are purely my own.

Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Blinke It Away

Blinke It Away by Victoria Landis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blinke It Away

Book Description
It's an idyllic day on Oahu until Bess Blinke interrupts a bizarre robbery that ends in homicide. In the following days, she discovers terrible secrets tied to the crime, and her world unravels. When the killer realizes the depth of what she knows and comes after her, she runs, hides, and plots to reveal the truth and expose the brutal force behind several murders.

My Review
This was a great, fast moving thriller! Bess and her best friend Jenny are at the park with her nephew and Jenny's 4 children. Jenny seems distracted but Bess thinks nothing of it. When Jenny disappears, Bess can't understand why she would leave her children whom she loved dearly! When she finds her dead, she can't know that this is just the beginning. What she finds out puts her life in danger and changes everything she thought about her best friend. Even so Bess is determined to bring down the people who did this, even when she finds out who exactly this was. Constant action, great believable characters and an awesome story make this book fantastic!

From a Christian Perspective
In this book I was impressed by the theme of doing what's right even if it may hurt you. I think this is what Jesus exemplified. He came to the world knowing he was going to die, because we are a sinful people. But He came! I'm not comparing Bess and her friend/family to Jesus, but I want to emphasize the point of doing what's right. As a Christian, I'm a little concerned that when she died, Quinn, Bess' nephew said she was in heaven. Not to be judgmental, but the bible tells us that the only way into heaven is through Jesus. There was not mention of Him so we don't know what Jenny's relationship was or if she is in Heaven. I know that's picky but as a Christian I think we need to be aware that not everyone who dies is going to Heaven. They must have a relationship with Christ while they are living to go to Heaven. What are your thoughts on this?

This is a book from my personal Kindle Collection. All opinions expressed are my own.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Abducted

Abducted by T.R. Ragan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Abducted

Book Description
Elizabeth Gardner (Lizzy) is seventeen-years old when she tells her parents she's going out with her girlfriends. Instead, she meets up with her boyfriend, Jared Shayne. As she walks home beneath an inky black sky, her perfect night becomes her worst nightmare.

Fourteen years later, Lizzy is a licensed PI known as the 'one who got away'. When she's not searching for runaway teenagers, working on insurance scams, or talking to her therapist, she's at the local high school teaching young girls to defend themselves. But her world is turned upside down for the second time after she receives a call from Jared Shayne. He's an FBI special agent now and he needs her help. Lizzy has no plans to get involved. Not until Jared tells her the kidnapper left her a personalized note.

My Review
I have to say this book freaked me out a bit! But if a book can freak me out, then it's a really good book! Lizzie was abducted as a teenager after lying to her parents and sneaking off to meet her boyfriend. She was able to convince the serial killer that she was a "good girl" and then was able to escape when he gave her some leeway. She was the one that got away. This event haunted Lizzie throughout her life but she thought her nightmare was over... until he returned. Angry that someone else had taken credit for his "work," the killer returned and made Lizzie his target. He was very creative in doing this and made Lizzie's life a living nightmare. Jared was Lizzie's boyfriend at the time of the abduction and never forgave himself for dropping her off so far away from home. Now he's back as an agent investigating the latest abductions and killings. When he and Lizzie are thrown together, he vows to himself to protect her. As they get closer to the killer, Lizzie's whole world starts to fall apart. Great story, great characterizations! I loved the flow because it didn't give you time to wonder what was going to happen next. The climax was amazing and perfect for the story. I look forward to reading more in this series.

From a Christian Perspective
I love thrillers and I'm not naive enough to think that they will have what I perceive as Christian elements. This book was a case like that. There were situations that I would not engage in myself, but understand why the author wrote the story that way. With that said, the hopelessness was overwhelming. It made me thankful to know that I have a Savior who can rescue me from ANYTHING (Psalm 140:1-2)! I wish these girls could have had some of that hope. I don't think it would make the pain and suffering any less, but knowing that you will rest in the arms of Christ might provide the strength? What do you think?

This was a book from my personal Kindle collection. All opinions expressed are my own.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Threads of Grace

Threads of Grace by Kelly Long
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Threads of Grace

From the Cover

Grace’s beauty almost cost her everything. This new start is all she has left.

When Grace Beiler was only a girl, she was married off to an older Amish man in order to save her family’s farm. Years later, she finds herself newly widowed and a mother to a young son. She has finally fled her sad past and plans to settle into a quiet life in Pennsylvania.

As soon as she arrives, she captures the attention of Seth Wyse, the most eligible bachelor in Pine Creek. Seth is candid about his feelings for her, and for her son Abel, but Grace is determined to protect her heart. Her determination falters when her brother-in-law reveals the troubling contents of her late husband’s will.

Seth offers Grace his hand in marriage, and thus a means of escape. But despite his having saved her from another loveless marriage, Grace is slow to trust her new husband. And as the months wear on, Seth wonders if he has made a mistake. But God is quietly at work in their hearts, and Seth and Grace soon discover that threads of grace bind them together in a tapestry rich in hope and love.

My Review
I enjoyed the story of Grace, Abel and Seth. The author created a great story to bring Grace's past and present together. There was a lot of mystery and it was rewarding as each peace came together to contribute to the story. Seth and his family's relationship with Abel was heartwarming, really added a nice depth to the story.

While I enjoyed the book, as the story went on, I found it to drag in places. This really made me want to rush through and get to the end. I thought the author wrapped up the story nice.

This is an appropriate book for an older teen+. No sexual situations, very little violence which is dealt with well and brings attention to autism.

From a Christian Perspective
As with most books in this genre, there was a strong element of faith. But in addition to that, there was a strong element of people twisting faith to meet their desires. I felt sad to think about all Grace went through in her first marriage. Knowing that God designed marriage to be a partnership, it makes me angry to think about the evil in her first husband and his brother. But then I'm reminded of Romans 8:28 and I remember that even though she faced challenges, God's goodness will prevail. Oh what joy it is to know that!! I think the quilt she gifted to Seth really symbolized this and the fact that she was able to overcome those challenges with the Lord.

Overall this was a nice quick read! Enjoy!

This was a book I received from BookSneeze for the purpose of review.  I provided my own honest opinion with no influence to provide a positive review. 

Blessings!!
Margaret


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Review: Jacob's Daughter

Jacob's Daughter by Samantha Jillian Bayarr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the Cover
Twenty-eight-year-old Lizzie Barlow is running from her past and present mistakes. Not knowing which direction to go, she finds herself hiding out in the same Amish community in which she grew up. With her ten-year-old daughter Abby, in tow, she fears her secrets will catch up to her.

When Abby discovers her real father may be living just down the road from where they are staying, she sets off on an adventure to meet him. What she doesn't know are the many secrets that her mother never shared with her--the same secrets that will turn her life upside down.

Jacob Yoder is an Amish widower, trying to raise his ten-year-old son, when his past shows up on his doorstep unexpectedly, threatening to change his life forever.

Will life ever be the same for Lizzie and Jacob again? Or will their mistakes change everything?

My Review

I really enjoyed this book. I love Amish stories but I haven't seen many where a person has left and come back. Lizzie was a character with a lot of depth and it was interesting to see her develop throughout the story. I loved how the author wove Abby into the story and how she adjusted to "Amish life" after being born and brought up in the English world. The story has some twists but overall is heartwarming and lovely.

From a Christian Perspective
The Amish are very strong in faith and also in tradition.  When Lizzie found herself in a predicament after her return, her lies put her and Jacob in a very difficult position. However God uses our messes for his miracles (Romans 8:28).  In this case he used the mess Lizzie created to showcase how a beautiful relationship can be built once we abide by His law.  I loved that the families blended so well together, a true family.  And I love God's sense of humor with the little surprise! 

This was a book from my personal Kindle Collection.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Christianish: What If We're Not Really Following Jesus at All?

Christianish: What If We're Not Really Following Jesus at All? by Mark Steele
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Christianish: What If We're Not Really Following Jesus at All?

From the Cover

It may feel like authentic faith. It may even look like the real deal. Yet it's often easy to settle for the souvenir t-shirt—the appearance of a transformed heart—instead of taking the actual trip through true life-change. We find ourselves settling for a personal faith that's been polluted by culture, and diluted by other people's take on spirituality.

Christianish tells the story of one man's journey to move from the in-between to a life that's centered on Christ. To move forward, author Mark Steele goes back to the beginning, to examine Christ's life and words. Through stories and insights that are sometimes profound, often hilarious, and always honest, Mark delivers a compelling look at what our faith is all about.

My Review
This was a great book to read. Jesus tells us he will spit lukewarm Christians from his mouth (Rev. 3:16). This author challenged himself to step out of that lukewarm mode to become boiling hot! Throughout the book he uses examples and stories to engage the reader. At the end of each chapter, he provides a diagram and questions to help readers stretch to that boiling point. I appreciated that this was not hit you over the head preaching but subtle urging to give our all to Him. It took me longer to read this book because I had to "stew" on each chapter days to absorb it. I definitely recommend this book for those who are looking to reach beyond the stretch.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: Olive Branches Don't Grow On Trees

Olive Branches Don't Grow On Trees by Grace Mattioli
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Olive Branches Don't Grow On Trees

Book Description
Silvia Greco's family is anything but peaceful and hasn't been together in over six years. But when her brother graduates high school, Silvia is drafted into helping her mother organize a family gathering and welcomes the challenge. In her journey to make peace in her quirky, feuding family, she learns that peace isn't something that's freely existing but something that needs to be cultivated. In other words, she learns that olive branches don't grow on trees.

My Review
I really tried to like this book but unfortunately it really didn't do much for me. It was written well (as far as grammar and such), the characters were defined well and the settings were described well. It reminded me of someone's memoir or biography.  But it was boring, I didn't find much story. It was more like sitting with an acquaintance and listening to her telling me everything that had happened in her life since the last time we met. At times the story just rambled on and I was trying to understand the point. Silvia, the main character, was trying to find herself and understand herself. I got that much out of it. But it was so convoluted and there didn't really seem to be a conclusion to the story. It just ended with the family dinner. I'm sure I missed some deeper meaning but for me, it wasn't worth searching for in this book.

From a Christian Perspective
I have to admit, this book was somewhat disappointing.  I should have known from the description!! I don't agree that peace is cultivated.  I believe peach comes from the Lord which allows you to see the good in others even when you are upset or angry with them.  Silvia was trying to fix things under her own strength which wasn't really working. If only she had turned to Jesus!  Jesus can fix anything.  I also was sad about the lack of hope that run throughout the book.  I think an element of faith and prayer would have mad a huge difference in this book! 

This was a book from my personal Kindle collection.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Saving Hope by Margaret Daley

Saving Hope by Margaret Daley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Saving Hope

Book Description
When a teenager goes missing from the Beacon of Hope School, Texas Ranger Wyatt Sheridan and school director Kate Winslow are forced into a dangerous struggle against a human trafficking organization. But the battle brings dire consequences as Wyatt's daughter is terrorized and Kate is kidnapped.

Now it's personal, and Wyatt finds both his faith and investigative skills challenged as he fights to discover the mastermind behind the ring before evil destroys everyone he loves.

My Review
This is the first book in the Men of the Texas Rangers series and I thought it was fantastic! This thriller had just the right amount of suspense and danger to make it interesting. Kate runs a refuge for girls who had been victims of sexual abuse and exploitation. She helps the girls overcome their past by giving them a safe house and a way to reestablish their future. When one of the girls goes missing and is found dead, it seems like Beacon of Hope is under attack. The Texas Rangers become involved and that's when Kate meets Wyatt. While the focus is on recovering the missing girls, there's no question that sparks are flying between the two. When Wyatt's daughter is targeted, then it becomes more critical to find who is behind this sex trafficking ring. As the stories climaxes, it was hard to wait to read the next page!! Definitely recommending this as a great read!

One thing I thought was very important was the need to make sure our young girls know, everyone the meet is not always who they appear to be. Your guard must always be up and you must trust the instincts that God gave you! While this was fiction, the situation was very real and we hear about young girls going missing every day. I think it was smart of the author to weave that into the story. I would have loved to see information for young girls to reach out if they are in a dangerous situation.

From a Christian Perspective
This book was classified as a thriller, but there was a strong Christian theme running throughout.  Kate was obviously a Christian and through her home, she taught the girls the principles of faith.  It was encouraging to see that even in doubt, Rose knew to call out to the Lord (Psalm 116:4)!!  In one passage there was the reminder that the Lord is always with you "When the Lord is with you every step, you can do what you have to do." This is clearly gave Rose the strength she needed to face challenges.  I appreciate that the author was able to keep the thriller element while adding faith in there as well.  Even Wyatt, his daughter and mother were not unaffected by the demonstration of faith.  To me this made the read even more worth it!

This is a book from my private Kindle collection.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret



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Review: Christmas in Magnolia Cove

Christmas in Magnolia Cove by Rachel Hanna
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Christmas in Magnolia Cove

Book Description
Madison Carter's life is perfect, or so she thinks. As the top interior designer in Atlanta, clients are clamoring to work with her. She has the town's most eligible and handsome bachelor, Connor Strickland, all wrapped up and ready to marry her. Best of all, she's left her tormented past back in Magnolia Cove.

When she uncovers a secret about her fiance, she flees back to her family in Magnolia Cove - to a mother who loves her, a sister who despises her and a past full of the bullies who made her life miserable in high school.

Can Christmas bring about new opportunities for love, business and forgiveness?

My Review
I love to read Christmas stories so I was looking forward to reading this book. However, it was not quite what I expected. Madison discovers her boyfriend cheating and decides to head back to Magnolia Cove to get away for a while. Once there, she finds herself getting sucked back in to that life and meets up with an old boyfriend when she needs a contractor for a home she purchased. Of course, the romance is rekindled but not without some rockiness. I found this to be a typical romance and nothing really exciting. Nice if you want a quick read.

From a Christian Perspective
It's hard for me to find the Christian Perspective when the book is not written in the Christian genre.  The book did contain situations that were a bit uncomfortable for the Christian reader.  Even so, I think it's important to review ALL types of books so I will continue to do this.  

For this book in particular, there was a lot of focus on romantic love which wasn't necessarily unconditional.  Jesus is very clear when he tells us that we must show unconditional love.   As the story when on, I did find examples of 1 Corinthian 13:4 "Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud."  Wyatt knew that he had been treated unfairly by Madison in the past.  However he chose kindness over revenge.  Through this he was able to develop a different kind of relationship.  Love is redeeming in this case. 

This book was from my personal Kindle Collection. You can find this book and more on Amazon, Christmas in Magnolia Cove

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: The Shadow on the Quilt

The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

The Shadow on the Quilt

Book Description
Juliana Sutton’s life looks perfect—from the outside. Until her husband’s untimely death reveals a devastating truth. . . . Cass Gregory is carrying his own dark secrets and feels unworthy to offer comfort to a woman of Juliana’s standing. When circumstances force them together, both Juliana and Cass are wounded and afraid to trust. Will the shadow of her dead husband’s name stand between Juliana and Cass, or will Juliana choose a love she never thought possible?

My Review
This story was much deeper than it initially appeared. In the face of an embarrassing betrayal, Juliana is faced with many choices on how to deal with her husband's death. Not only is she stuck with a behomoth of a house, she is also charged with the care of his elderly aunts. It was quite a pleasure to read through this tale of faith and fortitude. While Juliana went through many different feelings, she grew in her faith and was able to find forgiveness for her husband and others. The Shadow on the Quilt was not what I expected but brought tears to my eyes when it was revealed. Definitely a wonderful read.

From A Christian Perspective
This was a delightful Christian read! Throughout the bible we are taught that forgiveness is important, even for those things we feel should not be forgiven. Matthew 6:14 tells us "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."  Juliana was faced with a very difficult choice, to forgive the husband that betrayed her, to reject the woman he betrayed her with and to leave a helpless child alone.   While she struggled, Juliana chose to be obedient to the word of God.  Through this obedience, she was able to draw strength from the Lord and make choices that would reflect His glory in her life.  I think the shadow of the signature left on the quilt was a good reminder of how we can let unforgiveness create a shadow over our lives.  When the signature was added back to the quilt, it represented freedom!

This was a book I received from NetGalley for the purpose of review.  I was not compensated or encouraged to provide a positive review.

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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Review: A Moment of Weakness By Karen Kingsbury

A Moment of Weakness by Karen Kingsbury
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

A Moment of Weakness

Book Description
Had they found each other again after all these years, only to lose everything that matters most?"
"As children, Jade Conner and Tanner Eastman were best friends--until scandal drove them apart. Then, one golden summer, they find each other again. Through endless days they share their hearts and souls and dreams of forever. Then, in a moment of weakness, they make a decision that will tear them apart for nearly a decade.

In their own separate corners of the country, Jade and Tanner have become fighters for religious freedom. Now Jade's unfaithful husband is determined to destroy her in a custody battle that will rock the nation and shake people's understanding of faith and freedom. Could Jade lose her only child because of her faith? Only one man can help her in her darkest hour. And only one old woman knows the secret about that summer and the truth that can set them all free."

My Review
Once again Karen Kingsbury touches the heart by addressing an issue facing the nation today. Religious freedom is becoming more and more convoluted, especially if you are a Christian. In her novel, Kingsbury tackles this issue dead on. Jade is in danger of losing her son because of her faith and her beliefs. During this difficult time, she has to reach out to Tanner Eastman, the man who she feels betrayed her many years ago. Throughout the story, she has to overcome her bitterness and face people who did everything they could to destroy her relationship with Tanner back then. When she finds the truth, her world is rocked to the core. Tanner helps her to overcome her challenges in regaining custody of her son as well as resolve the issues that tore them apart. Kingsbury weaves a tale like no other! Her attention to detail is amazing and always makes for a great read.

From A Christian Perspection
Being a Christian author, Kingsbury is careful to make God an integral part of the story. It's clear throughout the story that while we are yet sinners, redemption is still available to us. The threads of forgiveness for the unforgivable, faith when everything is against you and strength when you felt you had none, all combine to make this a very powerful story. My recommendation is that you read this book, but keep the tissues nearby!

Love and Blessings!
Margaret

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