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By the Numbers #1
1 Step Away
A New Twist On One of The World s Oldest Stories For years, Bret and Sara Vreeland have encountered various obstacles in their family s finances and health. They always seem one step away from a breakthrough. When an unexpected $7,000,000 lands in their laps, they believe God has answered their prayers--but not all is as it seems. In fact, Satan is conducting an experiment. In the Book of Job, Satan received permission from God to test Job by putting him through various trials. Ultimately, this worked in God s favor. Now Satan seeks God s permission to bless the Vreeland family and to see if their good fortune will cause them to forget God, no longer dependent on His daily presence. One Step Away is a modern tale of believable characters given an unbelievable blessing. Only time will tell if it will draw them one step closer to God? Or one step away?
383 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2011
12 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Eric Wilson
133 books465 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Eric Wilson is a retired NY Times bestselling author with 21 published books in over a dozen languages. He wrote fiction (suspense, mystery, supernatural), film novelizations, and nonfiction (biography, memoir, travel).
Eric's books, in order of publication:
Shattered Nerves
(unpublished--written in high school)
Something Suspicious in Bear Flag
(unpublished--written in college)
Dark to Mortal Eyes
Expiration Date
The Best of Evil
A Shred of Truth
Facing the Giants
Flywheel
Fireproof
Field of Blood
Haunt of Jackals
Valley of Bones
One Step Away
Two Seconds Late
Three Fatal Blows (cancelled)
October Baby
The Eagle's Nest (cancelled)
Amelia's Last Secret
Alice Goes the Way of the Maya
Taming the Beast: The Untold Story of Team Tyson
Minutes Before Midnight (cancelled)
Samson
From Chains to Change
American Leftovers
What Are You Going to Do?
Confessions of a Former Prosecutor
Come Back Stronger (date not set)
Through the Storms We Faced (never found publisher)
Eric Wilson is a retired NY Times bestselling author with 21 published books in over a dozen languages. He wrote fiction (suspense, mystery, supernatural), film novelizations, and nonfiction (biography, memoir, travel).
Eric's books, in order of publication:
Shattered Nerves
(unpublished--written in high school)
Something Suspicious in Bear Flag
(unpublished--written in college)
Dark to Mortal Eyes
Expiration Date
The Best of Evil
A Shred of Truth
Facing the Giants
Flywheel
Fireproof
Field of Blood
Haunt of Jackals
Valley of Bones
One Step Away
Two Seconds Late
Three Fatal Blows (cancelled)
October Baby
The Eagle's Nest (cancelled)
Amelia's Last Secret
Alice Goes the Way of the Maya
Taming the Beast: The Untold Story of Team Tyson
Minutes Before Midnight (cancelled)
Samson
From Chains to Change
American Leftovers
What Are You Going to Do?
Confessions of a Former Prosecutor
Come Back Stronger (date not set)
Through the Storms We Faced (never found publisher)
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 7, 2013
In Eric Wilson's One Step Away, Bret and Sara Vreeland come into a rather unexpected fortune after years of living from paycheck to paycheck and struggling to get by. It seems like the $6,000,000 is the answer to all of their prayers--but is it really? Because more is going on with the Vreelands' inheritance than meets the eye.
This novel serves as a reminder that monetary wealth can create just as many problems as it solves. The Vreelands no longer have to worry about paying the bills, but their trust for one another begins to fall apart as each of them starts spending more money without telling the other. They justify their actions by saying, "Well, if he can buy this, then I can buy THIS," which I am sure happens in real life, too. In short, their newfound consumerism and hedonism slowly poison their souls.
So go ahead and give this book a read! If you haven't read anything by Wilson before, and if you are a fan of Christian-based suspense, then I suggest you start now.
This novel serves as a reminder that monetary wealth can create just as many problems as it solves. The Vreelands no longer have to worry about paying the bills, but their trust for one another begins to fall apart as each of them starts spending more money without telling the other. They justify their actions by saying, "Well, if he can buy this, then I can buy THIS," which I am sure happens in real life, too. In short, their newfound consumerism and hedonism slowly poison their souls.
So go ahead and give this book a read! If you haven't read anything by Wilson before, and if you are a fan of Christian-based suspense, then I suggest you start now.
September 10, 2015
Bret and Sara Vreeland don't have it all -- in fact, there are times when they wonder how they're going to make it through the month. But they have each other and they have their faith.
But what if something were to happen that changed all of that?
Eric Wilson flips the story of Job and instead of having everything taken away to test the faith of the Vreeland, the couple is given everything that could ever dream of (at least from a worldly perspective). But just as with Job, there are trials to come with being blessed beyond measure.
Wilson tells a good story with One Step Away. It's good to see that Bret and Sara aren't saints, but instead people with flaws and secrets. There are some secrets from the past that will come back to haunt them (a few I figured out a chapter or two before Wilson let us in on the details). But overall, Wilson keeps the pages turning and kept my interest us for the entire novel.
I also like the fact that while this is apparently the start of a series, the action of this novel is self-contained. I can say I'd enjoy a visit to the world that Wilson has created a self-contained story that can be enjoyed on its own merits.
But what if something were to happen that changed all of that?
Eric Wilson flips the story of Job and instead of having everything taken away to test the faith of the Vreeland, the couple is given everything that could ever dream of (at least from a worldly perspective). But just as with Job, there are trials to come with being blessed beyond measure.
Wilson tells a good story with One Step Away. It's good to see that Bret and Sara aren't saints, but instead people with flaws and secrets. There are some secrets from the past that will come back to haunt them (a few I figured out a chapter or two before Wilson let us in on the details). But overall, Wilson keeps the pages turning and kept my interest us for the entire novel.
I also like the fact that while this is apparently the start of a series, the action of this novel is self-contained. I can say I'd enjoy a visit to the world that Wilson has created a self-contained story that can be enjoyed on its own merits.
September 16, 2012
Wow. This book had all the makings of a thriller, but at the same time it was an allegory of sorts. I found the writing compelling and heartfelt. The author did a great job showing how hard it is to live from paycheck to paycheck and how sudden riches can cause a whole new load of troubles. But through everything God was working as the family made once choice after another. They were sifted, but fought for what was right, which I couldn't help admiring.
There were some really intense scenes in this book. The author did a great job of showing the mind of a twisted individual with no conscience. The insight was very convincing and well done. I loved the way the author showed the spiritual struggles of the characters and the way their family dealt with things. Those kids were precious, too. The last third of the book was one thrill after another and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't remember the last time I was so afraid for fictional people.
One of my favorite parts of the book were the unexpected twists at the end that made sense, but I didn't see coming. I loved how God healed so many things in the characters lives and how He also showed that what we want can so easily turn to gravel in our mouths, especially when it's covetousness toward another person. That was incredibly well done. I can't say anything more without posting a spoiler, but I can assure if you like books with intense themes, profound insight into the human condition, spiritual depth, and pulse-pounding action, you'll love this novel!
There were some really intense scenes in this book. The author did a great job of showing the mind of a twisted individual with no conscience. The insight was very convincing and well done. I loved the way the author showed the spiritual struggles of the characters and the way their family dealt with things. Those kids were precious, too. The last third of the book was one thrill after another and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't remember the last time I was so afraid for fictional people.
One of my favorite parts of the book were the unexpected twists at the end that made sense, but I didn't see coming. I loved how God healed so many things in the characters lives and how He also showed that what we want can so easily turn to gravel in our mouths, especially when it's covetousness toward another person. That was incredibly well done. I can't say anything more without posting a spoiler, but I can assure if you like books with intense themes, profound insight into the human condition, spiritual depth, and pulse-pounding action, you'll love this novel!
November 11, 2014
I liked the story and will read more from this author. but this one fell short. I think I expected more from Satan with the love of money/root of evil thread. I am still not clear on who was the main character. I liked the villain/stooge/scapegoat twist & I was surprised by the identity of mystery man but I was not at all impressed with the Pastor.
February 29, 2012
Wow. I'm impressed.
I was given One Step Away by Eric Wilson at an event back in August. Focusing issues and other books needing to be read kept it away from me, but at long last it was the next item on my list. I was certainly not disappointed.
[Book Description]
"A Modern Twist on One of the World's Oldest Tales."
Bret and Sara Vreeland have been targeted. Someone has plans for them, a plot that reaches into their past and threatens their future.
When one of Sara's patients dies, a mysterious old man, he leaves his fortune to her and her family. They have no idea they are part of an experiment. Satan once tested Job through trials, but failed to break him. Now Satan has sought God's permission to test the Vreelands with a $6,000,000 blessing.
As their lives take turn for the better, will their souls take a turn for the worse?
The book description implies that One Step Away is of preachy nature, but I assure you, it is not. I would put it in the "drama" genre, but that in no way hinders this amazing tale. It definitely has its share of thrills and chases.
[End of Book Description]
One Step Away is not the kind of story that grips me, draws me in and doesn't let go. This would normally be a bad thing, but the novel is filled to the brim with clever and humorous bits of wording that it is more than made up for. I was impressed at the author's writing ability, and numerous lines of dialogue gained my respect of him many times over.
The story isn't an explosion of awesomeness that left you sitting on the edge of your seat, but rather something to lay back and relax while reading. I may have many books in the near future that I'll be on deadline to read and review, but as the next on my list has not yet arrived, I saw no need to speed through this one. I took my time, and thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are fun, especially when you get to know them, and their adventure, if you could call it that, is one of the best stories I have read in quite a while.
In conclusion, this book is amazing. I was wowed by it. I took it at slow pace, but you in no means need to do the same. Eric Wilson is an extremely talented writer, deserving a lot more publicity than he has at present. If you have an upcoming weekend or two with nothing to do, I highly recommend you pick up this book.
I was given One Step Away by Eric Wilson at an event back in August. Focusing issues and other books needing to be read kept it away from me, but at long last it was the next item on my list. I was certainly not disappointed.
[Book Description]
"A Modern Twist on One of the World's Oldest Tales."
Bret and Sara Vreeland have been targeted. Someone has plans for them, a plot that reaches into their past and threatens their future.
When one of Sara's patients dies, a mysterious old man, he leaves his fortune to her and her family. They have no idea they are part of an experiment. Satan once tested Job through trials, but failed to break him. Now Satan has sought God's permission to test the Vreelands with a $6,000,000 blessing.
As their lives take turn for the better, will their souls take a turn for the worse?
The book description implies that One Step Away is of preachy nature, but I assure you, it is not. I would put it in the "drama" genre, but that in no way hinders this amazing tale. It definitely has its share of thrills and chases.
[End of Book Description]
One Step Away is not the kind of story that grips me, draws me in and doesn't let go. This would normally be a bad thing, but the novel is filled to the brim with clever and humorous bits of wording that it is more than made up for. I was impressed at the author's writing ability, and numerous lines of dialogue gained my respect of him many times over.
The story isn't an explosion of awesomeness that left you sitting on the edge of your seat, but rather something to lay back and relax while reading. I may have many books in the near future that I'll be on deadline to read and review, but as the next on my list has not yet arrived, I saw no need to speed through this one. I took my time, and thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are fun, especially when you get to know them, and their adventure, if you could call it that, is one of the best stories I have read in quite a while.
In conclusion, this book is amazing. I was wowed by it. I took it at slow pace, but you in no means need to do the same. Eric Wilson is an extremely talented writer, deserving a lot more publicity than he has at present. If you have an upcoming weekend or two with nothing to do, I highly recommend you pick up this book.
September 7, 2011
Seriously, who DOESN'T want to be a millionaire? I don't know anyone who doesn't want or couldn't use the money. You dream about buying just that "one" lottery ticket and hitting it big. Or getting an inheritance you didn't know you were even in the running for. Or, writing a book and being that one odd case that hit's it big right from the start . . .
But let's face it, life USUALLY doesn't work that way. And have you ever REALLY thought about what would happen with all that money? Sure you've thought about the houses, the cars, the gadgets, maybe even the hired help. Helping friends and family, donating to charities. But have you ever thought about what ELSE could come with the money? Unwanted, stressful consequences you feel you'd be better without, even if it meant not being rich. That much money can change a person. It can change family and friends. Bring people to your doorstep you never even knew existed.
In "One Step Away", Eric makes you think of all these questions. He paints the perfect family situation that, unfortunately, many find all too real and relevant in this day and age. He shows the subtle changes a person, and a family can go through . . . how it gets in there like a seed and grows within a person. And that, sometimes, you might just be better off living the life you're living and being thankful for what you have. An excellent book, you can't help but reevaluate yourself when you're finished.
But let's face it, life USUALLY doesn't work that way. And have you ever REALLY thought about what would happen with all that money? Sure you've thought about the houses, the cars, the gadgets, maybe even the hired help. Helping friends and family, donating to charities. But have you ever thought about what ELSE could come with the money? Unwanted, stressful consequences you feel you'd be better without, even if it meant not being rich. That much money can change a person. It can change family and friends. Bring people to your doorstep you never even knew existed.
In "One Step Away", Eric makes you think of all these questions. He paints the perfect family situation that, unfortunately, many find all too real and relevant in this day and age. He shows the subtle changes a person, and a family can go through . . . how it gets in there like a seed and grows within a person. And that, sometimes, you might just be better off living the life you're living and being thankful for what you have. An excellent book, you can't help but reevaluate yourself when you're finished.
December 4, 2011
Review by Jill Williamson
Bret and Sarah Vreeland have been targeted by the accuser. And this won’t be like last time, with Job. Instead of a time of many trials, the accuser wants to shower the Vreelands with blessings in hopes of ruining them. The Almighty One agrees to the test.
Bret and Sarah barely scrape by, but they are good people, faithful servants, and loving parents. Bret works hard and is a strong leader for his family, both spiritually and financially. He budgets everything. Sarah works hard to supplement Bret’s income, but she is tired and haunted by “What ifs?” from the past, from a rich fiancé who was killed before they were wed. She loves her husband but can’t help but wonder how life may have been different had Alex lived.
What a clever idea for a book! I loved this story, yet it frustrated me at the same time, knowing it was all a scheme from “the accuser.” What was even more interesting than the premise was the execution. I loved the mystery of who was the mastermind (the human one) behind all this. And I did not see the end coming. Very well done, Mr. Wilson! Can’t wait to read your next book.
Bret and Sarah Vreeland have been targeted by the accuser. And this won’t be like last time, with Job. Instead of a time of many trials, the accuser wants to shower the Vreelands with blessings in hopes of ruining them. The Almighty One agrees to the test.
Bret and Sarah barely scrape by, but they are good people, faithful servants, and loving parents. Bret works hard and is a strong leader for his family, both spiritually and financially. He budgets everything. Sarah works hard to supplement Bret’s income, but she is tired and haunted by “What ifs?” from the past, from a rich fiancé who was killed before they were wed. She loves her husband but can’t help but wonder how life may have been different had Alex lived.
What a clever idea for a book! I loved this story, yet it frustrated me at the same time, knowing it was all a scheme from “the accuser.” What was even more interesting than the premise was the execution. I loved the mystery of who was the mastermind (the human one) behind all this. And I did not see the end coming. Very well done, Mr. Wilson! Can’t wait to read your next book.
October 5, 2011
I absolutely loved this book! The characters are so real, it's like they leapt off the page and started living around me! Every heartache, every triumph, every underhanded deed and drop of blood grabbed me by the heart and wouldn't let go. I fell in love with the Vreelands from the start. It was as though I was living their lives with them. The romance between Bret and Sara wasn't some fairy tale perfect fluff, but the kind of romance that really lasts. Their faith, and the faith of their children is really inspiring. I hope that when the time comes, I can teach my children that kind of faith.
1 Step Away was by no means all romance and faith. (Ever hear of a Maserati?) The entire last third of the book I was on the edge of my seat, breathless, muscles tensed, completely freaking out! I have to say, when I heard Eric was writing a new twist on the book of Job, I had high expectations. 1 Step Away exceeded them all and then some. I can't wait for 2 Seconds Late!
1 Step Away was by no means all romance and faith. (Ever hear of a Maserati?) The entire last third of the book I was on the edge of my seat, breathless, muscles tensed, completely freaking out! I have to say, when I heard Eric was writing a new twist on the book of Job, I had high expectations. 1 Step Away exceeded them all and then some. I can't wait for 2 Seconds Late!
December 17, 2011
The latest novel by Eric Wilson defies the standard classifications. It is one part mystery, one part romance, one part action and a dash of supernatural thriller.
The narrative is strong, with just enough tension to keep the pages turning. The characters are well presented—we all know people like the Vreeland family. In fact, most of us have been the Vreeland family at one time or another.
And the villains…they remind me very much of the sorts of rogues you’d find in a book by John Grisham or Dean Koontz. Both authors typically have layers of evil, with some villains moving brazenly, and others lurking in the shadows. So it is in “One Step Away,” with the addition of an extra layer for those who crave a connection to the eternal.
Ultimately, this book is a great story told by a storyteller that is perpetually honing his craft. Well done, Mr. Wilson! I look forward to the next title in the “By the Numbers” trilogy
The narrative is strong, with just enough tension to keep the pages turning. The characters are well presented—we all know people like the Vreeland family. In fact, most of us have been the Vreeland family at one time or another.
And the villains…they remind me very much of the sorts of rogues you’d find in a book by John Grisham or Dean Koontz. Both authors typically have layers of evil, with some villains moving brazenly, and others lurking in the shadows. So it is in “One Step Away,” with the addition of an extra layer for those who crave a connection to the eternal.
Ultimately, this book is a great story told by a storyteller that is perpetually honing his craft. Well done, Mr. Wilson! I look forward to the next title in the “By the Numbers” trilogy
August 3, 2011
*****SPOILER******
I wasn't overly convinced of Sara's intention to seek Alex wholeheartedly so the end was a bit too predictable. Maybe Mr Wilson could have convinced me further by allow more intimate thoughts develop or maybe the timeframe of his death be so far back.
Great book nonetheless. In the beginning Bret reminded me of Ned Flander's from The Simpsons with using EVERY situation as reference to God's Word. I didn't all the references, but I guess the author was trying to show us they were a God fearing family. Knowing the book of Job going in, I already knew how strong their faith would be. Maybe the author did that for people who don't know the book of Job.
Overall, I enjoyed it and it allowed me to think about how that whole situation would affect my family. Well done Mr.Wilson.
I wasn't overly convinced of Sara's intention to seek Alex wholeheartedly so the end was a bit too predictable. Maybe Mr Wilson could have convinced me further by allow more intimate thoughts develop or maybe the timeframe of his death be so far back.
Great book nonetheless. In the beginning Bret reminded me of Ned Flander's from The Simpsons with using EVERY situation as reference to God's Word. I didn't all the references, but I guess the author was trying to show us they were a God fearing family. Knowing the book of Job going in, I already knew how strong their faith would be. Maybe the author did that for people who don't know the book of Job.
Overall, I enjoyed it and it allowed me to think about how that whole situation would affect my family. Well done Mr.Wilson.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2012
I enjoyed the twists of plot, the varied settings, the suspense and the theme of this novel. I'm especially impressed with Eric Wilson's ability to get inside the head and heart of characters -- very good people whose goodness is severely tested, and a very evil person who is used to do the testing, as well as a wide range of more conflicted, complex, shades-of-gray characters like people we meet every day. For instance, the description of what was happening in Bret's mind and heart as he led a congregation in worship was beautiful and insightful, and rang true. Similarly, the author's descriptions of what Magnus Maggart was thinking when he carried out his wicked plans, was fascinating and believable. To write such descriptions and scenes must take an emotional toll on the author as he digs deep. Elements of mystery kept me reading to the end.
August 29, 2011
Immmediately Eric Wilson captured my attention with One Step Away. This was a fast paced, easy read but more then that I found that I could relate to the characters... both flaws and strenghts. It's kind of like watching a movie (by the way this should be made into a movie) and loving the character enough that you are actually praying for them to see the danger, to make the right choice.. It was an interesting twist to the story of Job that got me thinking, if somehow today I got millions would that eventualy separate me from Christ? I only take the time to write review for books that I absolutely love.... or absolutely don't. This one is a looooooove!
August 3, 2011
I really enjoyed this book as I've enjoyed Wilson's previous books. His characters are so believable and likable that you can't help but cheer for them. I don't usually read Christian fiction, but I think Wilson's exciting and fast paced plots can be enjoyed by anyone.
June 24, 2012
LOVED this book! It's a very suspenseful retelling of the story of Job... but with a great twist! I cannot wait to continue reading this series... next up "2 Seconds Late". I highly recommend this book and the author Eric Wilson. I have a huge to-read list with his name all over it!
September 27, 2011
great storyline, Eric.
Read
November 17, 2011Very interesting story, about receiving a large sum of money and what it does to your life.
February 29, 2012
I loved Field of Blood and the others that followed in the trilogy but I loved this book even more.
August 15, 2014
Insightful and exciting. This story really puts what's important into perspective.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews