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The Touch: A Novella
Andrew Jones was once one of the few surgeons in the world to have that rare, God-given ability called The Touch. But after failing to save his young fiance, Faith, at the scene of a car accident, Jones abandons his gift and shuns the operating room. Lara Blair owns a Chicago-based biomedical engineering company developing a surgical tool that will duplicate precisely the movement of a surgeon's hands, reducing or eliminating failed surgical procedures. Lara has pursued the best surgeons in the world to test this surgical tool, and all of them have failed. As Lara pursues Jones' skill for her project, Jones' stubborn resistance cracks, and he begins to open up to her about the wounds that still haunt him. But when Jones discovers the urgency behind Lara's work, he must choose to move beyond his past. As each is forced to surrender secret fears, they are bonded together through the lives of the people Jones serves and by the healing secret that Faith left behind.
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First published September 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
January 21, 2012
This book is from Goodreads free give away. This book reminded of Nicholas Sparks books.....
you can see the ending from the beginning, but you still go down the path. I liked the path at times-set in the Virginia mountains-but Doc no one would have waited 2 weeks for their hillbilly stroke patient to finally show up, driven to the hospital farmer buddy.
I liked the books design. I am an avid book design addict, This book's color, weight, paper selection, font, and slip cover were all marvelous. The cover is translucent-for the blue to come through. The cover and book felt great in my hands-something Kindle/Nook can never replace.
I learned a could things from this book, sappy as it was at times. If you like these type of books, I highly recommend this one. I cried when I read A Walk to Remember by Sparks-even though I saw the ending in the beginning pages....
you can see the ending from the beginning, but you still go down the path. I liked the path at times-set in the Virginia mountains-but Doc no one would have waited 2 weeks for their hillbilly stroke patient to finally show up, driven to the hospital farmer buddy.
I liked the books design. I am an avid book design addict, This book's color, weight, paper selection, font, and slip cover were all marvelous. The cover is translucent-for the blue to come through. The cover and book felt great in my hands-something Kindle/Nook can never replace.
I learned a could things from this book, sappy as it was at times. If you like these type of books, I highly recommend this one. I cried when I read A Walk to Remember by Sparks-even though I saw the ending in the beginning pages....
December 1, 2011
This is an excellent audio all round. The story is very well crafted with characters you can believe in and a plot that is full of different emotions. This is not surprising coming from the man who wrote the screenplay for ‘Braveheart‘!!
The narration is perfect. Paul Michael does a wonderful job of bringing the different characters to life, and knows how to stir your emotions with the perfect pitch of his voice.
Its not a fast paced audio but it will definitely keep your attention, if you like well developed characters with a medical setting.
Thanks to christianaudio.com Reviewers Program for this copy.
The narration is perfect. Paul Michael does a wonderful job of bringing the different characters to life, and knows how to stir your emotions with the perfect pitch of his voice.
Its not a fast paced audio but it will definitely keep your attention, if you like well developed characters with a medical setting.
Thanks to christianaudio.com Reviewers Program for this copy.
June 22, 2017
Dr. Andrew Jones, a gifted surgeon, suffered a horrible tragedy. Now he works in the ER and teaches. But he refuses to do another surgery. Several years have passed and a Ms. Lara Blair is asking him to join her biomedical engineering company. She and her team are developing a special set of robotic hands that do not shake for difficult brain surgery. But they need a human hands to model the robot after. Dr. Jones clearly the surgeon for the job. But Ms. Blair can't seem to convince him to join her company.
The book started off with the touching tragedy and then moved on to the current time. When I started the book I had the thought that this book was going to profoundly affect me. The author had the characters expressing some deep and contemplative thoughts. But about half way through the book it took a slightly confusing turn and ended very cheesy and predictably. So while I absolutely loved the first half, I'm still not sure what to think about the last half. Overall, I would have to say I enjoyed the story and definitely enjoyed the spiritual thoughts and process of the characters and their lives. So if you enjoy medical stories, romance, and thought provoking spiritual thoughts than you might enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book by Tyndale. All thoughts expressed are my own.
The book started off with the touching tragedy and then moved on to the current time. When I started the book I had the thought that this book was going to profoundly affect me. The author had the characters expressing some deep and contemplative thoughts. But about half way through the book it took a slightly confusing turn and ended very cheesy and predictably. So while I absolutely loved the first half, I'm still not sure what to think about the last half. Overall, I would have to say I enjoyed the story and definitely enjoyed the spiritual thoughts and process of the characters and their lives. So if you enjoy medical stories, romance, and thought provoking spiritual thoughts than you might enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book by Tyndale. All thoughts expressed are my own.
July 15, 2012
The Touch by Randall Wallace
I really enjoyed the book more than I thought I would. Throughout the novel it was hard to actually get inside the head of Andrew Jones (or Jones, as his colleagues call him) Faith Thomas or Lara (Laura without the u) Blair. So why did I like it in spite of that fact? Or why did I not really connect with them? All three of these characters were wrapped up in their professions as doctors, Lara being a researcher. They were well developed, but I seemed to miss that part that brought them into my life for me.
The story line was well written, and flowed rather like a river, but I am thinking that it could have had more depth, and the suspense could have been more developed. Actually, on second thought, perhaps it just was that it is a short story, easily read in an afternoon. As that, it was clearly a great little book.
Having said that, I am not criticizing the author or the editors...and the surprises were there. Randall clearly shows “The Touch” from the time Jones and Faith see the painting by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel until the end of the novel. It is understood that The Touch is the touch of God's hand to man's hand, as the artist portrayed it. Both Jones and Lara grow from being rather reclusive and selfish to learning more about God's great love and plan for them.
I will definitely be telling others about Randall Wallace and The Touch, and will be looking for more novels by him.
The opinions stated in this review are my own, and this is an honest review.
I really enjoyed the book more than I thought I would. Throughout the novel it was hard to actually get inside the head of Andrew Jones (or Jones, as his colleagues call him) Faith Thomas or Lara (Laura without the u) Blair. So why did I like it in spite of that fact? Or why did I not really connect with them? All three of these characters were wrapped up in their professions as doctors, Lara being a researcher. They were well developed, but I seemed to miss that part that brought them into my life for me.
The story line was well written, and flowed rather like a river, but I am thinking that it could have had more depth, and the suspense could have been more developed. Actually, on second thought, perhaps it just was that it is a short story, easily read in an afternoon. As that, it was clearly a great little book.
Having said that, I am not criticizing the author or the editors...and the surprises were there. Randall clearly shows “The Touch” from the time Jones and Faith see the painting by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel until the end of the novel. It is understood that The Touch is the touch of God's hand to man's hand, as the artist portrayed it. Both Jones and Lara grow from being rather reclusive and selfish to learning more about God's great love and plan for them.
I will definitely be telling others about Randall Wallace and The Touch, and will be looking for more novels by him.
The opinions stated in this review are my own, and this is an honest review.
April 22, 2018
What a joy to find a book with a unique story, lyrical writing, and thought provoking ideas. I thoroughly enjoyed every word and would love to find more Christian fiction written in the same vein. There's a mystical aspect to the story that touches the heart, and the relationship between Jones and Lara is both poignant and heartwarming.
I'll remember this story for many years to come, treasure it, and reflect on it.
Recommended for readers of Christian fiction, medical fiction, and anyone with a heart and soul :)
I'll remember this story for many years to come, treasure it, and reflect on it.
Recommended for readers of Christian fiction, medical fiction, and anyone with a heart and soul :)
September 2, 2016
Others have remarked on how attractive the cover and size of this book is and that is what tempted me at the library. Perhaps the fact that this book also deals with operations on the brain also attracted me! Well crafted, sympathetic characters and a good story kept me really interested in this tale of courage and fear.
August 15, 2019
Fantastisch boek, maar ik hou dan ook van het snijvlak medisch-technisch. Het geloof in wonderen, de vrijgevigheid en een vleugje romantiek erbij maken het helemaal af. Niemand wil een spoiler, dus daar laat ik het bij. Ik zeg: lezen!
September 29, 2012
I picked this book up firstly because of its unusual size and cover sitting on the library shelf - as a novella it is a hardcover small book but fairly thick and good quality;it probably cost a lot to publish due to its non-standard presentation.
Then I was captivated by the first few paragraphs. I have been looking closely at opening paragraphs lately as they need to capture my attention - and just how many variations can you do on an opening paragraph? This one starts:"When Michelangelo finished painting the Sistene Chapel, neither the Pope who hired him nor the glorified artists of Rome took particular notice of the depiction in the centre of the ceiling, where God, whom Michelangelo had the audacity to depict as a Being representing a human, stretches His divine hand toward the first man, Adam, who is lolling in beautiful yet limp perfection, awaiting The Touch that will bring him Life." One long sentence, but catchy and interesting, full of word pictures, leading into the story with a clear and powerful setting.
Then of course I recognised the author's name Randall Wallace but not as an author, and then I realised he was the well known screenwriter, director, producer and songwriter, which also caught my attention - what would his novella be like? Well, I really enjoyed it. I found it inspirational and well written, with strong imagery and messaging congruent with someone who works in film. I especially liked the references to Jones' surgical personality, which added comic humour to the human drama of the book.
Overall, a worthwhile read with a valuable life lesson, and the interview with the author at the end is a nice touch...
Then I was captivated by the first few paragraphs. I have been looking closely at opening paragraphs lately as they need to capture my attention - and just how many variations can you do on an opening paragraph? This one starts:"When Michelangelo finished painting the Sistene Chapel, neither the Pope who hired him nor the glorified artists of Rome took particular notice of the depiction in the centre of the ceiling, where God, whom Michelangelo had the audacity to depict as a Being representing a human, stretches His divine hand toward the first man, Adam, who is lolling in beautiful yet limp perfection, awaiting The Touch that will bring him Life." One long sentence, but catchy and interesting, full of word pictures, leading into the story with a clear and powerful setting.
Then of course I recognised the author's name Randall Wallace but not as an author, and then I realised he was the well known screenwriter, director, producer and songwriter, which also caught my attention - what would his novella be like? Well, I really enjoyed it. I found it inspirational and well written, with strong imagery and messaging congruent with someone who works in film. I especially liked the references to Jones' surgical personality, which added comic humour to the human drama of the book.
Overall, a worthwhile read with a valuable life lesson, and the interview with the author at the end is a nice touch...
January 28, 2012
I received this book as part of a Good Reads giveaway so thank you first to the author for allowing me to read this book.
I started this book knowing that I was excited to read it. I knew the premise of the story from the description and knew it was something I wanted to enjoy. I found the story not only touching, but real and engaging. Andrew Jones was the tortured soul who needed saving and Lara was the savior he was looking for after the death of his wife. Jones never got over the death of his wife, even in the marriage he shares with Lara later on in the book. I have to say there were times where the book dragged and there were times I just kept turning the pages in anticipation of what was going to happen next. I gave it 3 stars because of the slowness of the book at times and the "tortured soul" character is something that we see all to often so it was not entirely new which dragged down the book a bit. I found the author's writing to be easy and not too outlandish. Overall, a nice read. Thank you again goodreads for the chance to read this book and review it!
I started this book knowing that I was excited to read it. I knew the premise of the story from the description and knew it was something I wanted to enjoy. I found the story not only touching, but real and engaging. Andrew Jones was the tortured soul who needed saving and Lara was the savior he was looking for after the death of his wife. Jones never got over the death of his wife, even in the marriage he shares with Lara later on in the book. I have to say there were times where the book dragged and there were times I just kept turning the pages in anticipation of what was going to happen next. I gave it 3 stars because of the slowness of the book at times and the "tortured soul" character is something that we see all to often so it was not entirely new which dragged down the book a bit. I found the author's writing to be easy and not too outlandish. Overall, a nice read. Thank you again goodreads for the chance to read this book and review it!
January 2, 2012
Jones has an amazing gift - he has the touch - hands for surgery and saving people. He also has fallen in love with Faith, a woman who lives up to her name and who inspires Jones. When both are involved in a tragic accident on the way to their clinic in the mountains - Jones hangs up his own personal surgical instruments and teaches his fellow doctors to use their hands instead. At the same time a young woman named Lara Blair, who owns a biomedical engineering company, has been searching for a surgeon to operate the special tool she has designed to save lives. Jones, when discovered by Lara's team, wants nothing to do with surgery again and instead shows Lara the clinic in the Blue Ridge Mountains and the people who desperately need doctoring. When Jones also tells of Faith's anonymous acts of love, Lara begins to understand and believe in the selflessness and freedom of such an action.
An amazing novel of faith, belief, and the inner goodness of men. This author/producer/director is also the screenwriter of Braveheart and We Were Soldiers.
An amazing novel of faith, belief, and the inner goodness of men. This author/producer/director is also the screenwriter of Braveheart and We Were Soldiers.
April 3, 2012
My first impression of the book had to do with it's appearance. I know that they always say "Don't judge a book by it's cover," but as all true bibliophiles know, there is something breathtaking about finding a book that has a cover that draws you in. This cover is gorgeous!! I found myself lovingly touching the cover as I read, with its thin papery feel. The content matches the cover, with a beautiful faith message stated in a way that all faiths can appreciate. I loved the quote on p. 45, "And yet, Lara thought, if we spend our lives trying so hard to hold on to life that we never live, never really allow ourselves the chance to dance and sing, what is the value - the wisdom, the use, the purpose, the importance - of that?" There were so many truly moving and touching moments throughout this book, and it was lovely to read. Highly recommended!
January 14, 2012
An absolute must read!
This book is magical if you read no other book in 2012 read "The Touch"
Randall Wallace with his amazing talent and his ability to bring characters to life, hands us a book that will touch your very soul!
This will be the book that you will buy copies to share with family and friends, Randall Wallace shares with us a beautiful book that shows his faith and how he was raised and the truth that each of us "know in our depths that something in each of us comes from God".
In this story you will travel the road with a gifted man referred to as Jones, you will feel his happiness, his pain and his loneliness and the denial of God and his God given gift.
You will be witness to God's healing love that gives Jones back his passion for healing, love, and faith.
This book is magical if you read no other book in 2012 read "The Touch"
Randall Wallace with his amazing talent and his ability to bring characters to life, hands us a book that will touch your very soul!
This will be the book that you will buy copies to share with family and friends, Randall Wallace shares with us a beautiful book that shows his faith and how he was raised and the truth that each of us "know in our depths that something in each of us comes from God".
In this story you will travel the road with a gifted man referred to as Jones, you will feel his happiness, his pain and his loneliness and the denial of God and his God given gift.
You will be witness to God's healing love that gives Jones back his passion for healing, love, and faith.
February 14, 2012
Wallace's The Touch was an amazing read that I was lucky enough to win through Goodreads. It was a moving story that touched the heart and made you think. It really reminded me of books that I had read by Nicholas Sparks and really enjoyed, but Wallace has a touch of his own giving the reader a powerful story of two people brought together by science and drawn together by love and faith. Wallace does a great job of building two love stories in The Touch by showing the reader a glimpse of Andrew's love with Faith as well as a look to a future without Faith. Lara finds herself at a crossroads as well as she sees the possibilities of a life outside of her work. Overall this was such an amazing read that I would definitely recommend.
July 3, 2012
Dr. Andrew Jones has a gift -- a gift he's reluctant, unwilling really, to use because of a traumatic event in his past.
Lara Blair is in search of a solution -- a solution she thinks only Dr. Jones can give her.
The Touch is a moving and masterfully written novella by Randall Wallace. That should be no surprise. If you've seen Braveheart, you know what kind of storyteller Wallace is. This story read like a movie would play. Each character was clear in my mind and deeply developed with the use of only a few words. Wallace knows how to convey much with little.
Jones struck me as a kinder, gentler Dr. House from the FOX TV series. And although the story revolves around advances in biomedical technology, Wallace uses little jargon or techno-speak.
The Touch is captivating. A must-read.
Lara Blair is in search of a solution -- a solution she thinks only Dr. Jones can give her.
The Touch is a moving and masterfully written novella by Randall Wallace. That should be no surprise. If you've seen Braveheart, you know what kind of storyteller Wallace is. This story read like a movie would play. Each character was clear in my mind and deeply developed with the use of only a few words. Wallace knows how to convey much with little.
Jones struck me as a kinder, gentler Dr. House from the FOX TV series. And although the story revolves around advances in biomedical technology, Wallace uses little jargon or techno-speak.
The Touch is captivating. A must-read.
December 12, 2025
I debated on whether to give this book three or four stars.
The pros were, medicine and art are combined in this book, and they’re two of my favorite things. I have yet to read another book that weaves the two together. (I’m sure they’re out there, leave me some recommendations) Also, the main characters were sweet, if a little unrealistic. I related heavily to how Jones expressed feeling about art, and how Fait felt about people.
The cons were, it was steamier than I like to read, and poorly written. Some of the adjective use and word choices were amateur, and unimaginative. I reread sentences, thinking, “He did not just say that.”
I agree with one commentator who said, “it reminded her of Nicholas Sparks.” Thankfully it was less sexually explicit than Nicholas is known to be.
The pros were, medicine and art are combined in this book, and they’re two of my favorite things. I have yet to read another book that weaves the two together. (I’m sure they’re out there, leave me some recommendations) Also, the main characters were sweet, if a little unrealistic. I related heavily to how Jones expressed feeling about art, and how Fait felt about people.
The cons were, it was steamier than I like to read, and poorly written. Some of the adjective use and word choices were amateur, and unimaginative. I reread sentences, thinking, “He did not just say that.”
I agree with one commentator who said, “it reminded her of Nicholas Sparks.” Thankfully it was less sexually explicit than Nicholas is known to be.
January 21, 2012
I didn't think I was really going to enjoy this book as tear jerkers aren't usually my thing.....but I loved it actually! The roller coaster my emotions rode was exhilarating as these types of books aren't a staple upon my shelves. I even said, as I read the last chapter..."ohhh man don't tell me she...aww how cute and awesome! OMG thats just adorable can basically feel the love!"
I also enjoyed the writing by telling one story simultaneously with another and t Rollin into each other without being way weird or complicated.
I also enjoyed the writing by telling one story simultaneously with another and t Rollin into each other without being way weird or complicated.
March 13, 2012
Andrew Jones, a young doctor with amazing gift/abilities abandoned his gift and gave up surgery when he could not save his fiancé in a fatal car accident. Lara Blair, owner of a biomedical engineering company is determined to persuade him to work with her. He resists until he discovers the urgency in her request.
I enjoyed this author's writing. He is an American screenwriter who wrote the screenplays for Braveheart, We Were Soldiers, The Man in the Iron Mask, Pearl Harbor and Secretariat. In addition to directing, producing and song writing.
I enjoyed this author's writing. He is an American screenwriter who wrote the screenplays for Braveheart, We Were Soldiers, The Man in the Iron Mask, Pearl Harbor and Secretariat. In addition to directing, producing and song writing.
February 29, 2012
This book really challenged how I perceive Christian publishers, or at least Tyndale. I kept waiting for the more blatant spirituality, but it never came. The themes of love and loss, heartbreak and hope, giving beyond ourselves--these would touch readers from all backgrounds. As a Christian, I saw the hand of God (part of the theme) throughout, but there were no "sermons" or dramatic conversions. It is a beautiful story.
I received this book through Good Reads First Reads.
I received this book through Good Reads First Reads.
February 2, 2013
I bouht this book last year at the Celebration of Reading where I actually met the author and got my copy autographed. I put it away and honestly forgot about it. I am so sorry that I did not read this womderful book sooner! It was such a great story.
It was about a gifted surgeon who had quit operating because of a personal tragedy. He found what he needed to be healed.
It is a love story but it is more than that-it is a story of healing!
It was about a gifted surgeon who had quit operating because of a personal tragedy. He found what he needed to be healed.
It is a love story but it is more than that-it is a story of healing!
December 11, 2012
With mental issues that cause me to pass out from pain or blood, I wasn't sure if I could make it through the entirety of this book. The intriguing characters and plot were enough to combat it, however- I absolutely adored this book!
June 16, 2013
Blandly written, no character development, and no interesting vocabulary. Reads more like a screen play, and would actually make a decent movie. But, as a book, not a challenging or interesting read at this point in my life.
September 18, 2020
Even if it was a book suggested me by a very dear friend, usually very close to my tastes, I didn't like this novel at all.
I didn't like the way it portrays the doctors - almost semi-Gods with a divine touch and not serious workers who struggles each day to do their jobs the best they can.
I didn't like the idea of this romantic love kept alive in years and years, as if time and conditions couldn't change life and situations.
I didn’t like the way Americans think sanitary policy should be brought on – money, money, money.
I didn’t like the unlikelihood of some occurrence there – the operation against cleft lip and palate or the giving away $ 1.000.000.000 in an envelope!!!!
No, not to be read, in my opinion!
I didn't like the way it portrays the doctors - almost semi-Gods with a divine touch and not serious workers who struggles each day to do their jobs the best they can.
I didn't like the idea of this romantic love kept alive in years and years, as if time and conditions couldn't change life and situations.
I didn’t like the way Americans think sanitary policy should be brought on – money, money, money.
I didn’t like the unlikelihood of some occurrence there – the operation against cleft lip and palate or the giving away $ 1.000.000.000 in an envelope!!!!
No, not to be read, in my opinion!
April 19, 2012
Synopsis: Andrew Jones was once one of the few surgeons in the world to have that rare, God-given ability called "The Touch." But after failing to save his young fiancee, Faith, at the scene of a car accident, Jones abandons his gift and shuns the operating room. Lara Blair owns a Chicago-based biomedical engineering company developing a surgical tool that will duplicate precisely the movement of a surgeon's hands, reducing or eliminating failed surgical procedures. Lara has pursued the best surgeons in the world to test this surgical tool, and all of them have failed. As Lara pursues Jones's skill for her project, Jones's stubborn resistance cracks, and he begins to open up to her about the wounds that still haunt him. But when Jones discovers the urgency behind Lara's work, he must choose to move beyond his past. As each is forced to surrender secret fears, they are bonded together through the lives of the people Jones serves and by the healing secret that Faith left behind.
Plot: The first thing that struck me when I started reading was that this book was...corny. It had that feel to it that I can only describe as juvenile. The use of dialogue, the sentence structure, the characters, the setting, everything. It just seemed unprofessional. And from a man who wrote screenplays and is a movie director, producer, and songwriter, I guess I was just expecting more.
The plot was a good one, with several interesting and unexpected plot-twists. And how can I not like a book where someone dies in the first chapter? But it was just, well, mostly boring. And sometimes awkward. And sometimes just like 'huh?'
Characters: This is my least favorite part of the review to do. I don't like to take characters apart. But in this book, well, I know why Mr. Wallace is a screenwriter. You can create the action and the words and then leave it to the actors and actresses to add the heart and emotion. But The Touch is a novel - and there are no actors.
Writing dialogue and creating characters should be approached in an open way. Putting lines into your characters mouths and simply telling the reader that the person is smart, gifted, handsome, beautiful, ect. it doesn't do anything. Let your characters speak for themselves. You can't force-feed people words - even people in books.
The characters in this book had their moments. There were definitely bits and pieces of brilliancy, but bits and pieces don't make a two-hundred and eighty-three page book worth reading. Not even if you throw in a few plot twists.
Likes: The drama was definitely good. The plot twists, as I have mentioned, were pretty well-concealed and caught you by surprise. And there were times when I thought 'Wow. Maybe this guy does know what he's doing.'
The author interview in the back was interesting and even inspiring and it made me soften my harsher view of the book a bit.
Dislikes: Ok, I don't like and can't stand it when authors use twenty-first century vernacular in their books. It sounds immature, breaks up the flow of the dialogue, dates the book like nobody's business, and also makes me cringe. Usage of terms such as "Who da man? You da man!" and "no problemo" and the like are just what you'd expect from the writings of a little kid who doesn't know better. It's juvenile. And even though the book is set in the twenty-first century and that's how people converse every day, I still think it's unacceptable and makes the characters sound childish.
The sentence structure drove me crazy. I don't know how the grammar was supposed to be set up in this book, but paragraph-long sentences split only in the middle by a semi-colon were just hard to read. I found myself stumbling as I read, trying to maneuver my way around the wonky punctuation. The book didn't flow.
The fact that the Christian message (this was published by Tyndale too!), seemed more focused on 'good works done in secret' than any true power of God or salvation through the blood of Jesus. The message seemed to be 'do good things and you'll have peace and joy and hope.' Uhmm, I think not?!?
The unrealistic things that occurred. Ok, I'm not an expert on medical technology, procedures or anything, but some of the things that happened made me think 'I don't think so'. And the fact that Lara can fit Jones perfectly with a tux (keep in mind that he has certain shoulder and waist specifications. Perfect hero alert!) and shoes after she has only seen him once - and this includes having it altered to fit better. *ahem* Yeah...right...
A food fight between two thirty-something professionals? Come on! I rolled my eyes about that in another book I was reading - which also happened to be written by ten-year-old!
So!
Conclusion: The Touch by Randall Wallace is not a book I would recommend to a friend because it consists of non-believable characterization, grating dialogue, and it's just blah. Boring and juvenile blah. Any book that causes me to roll my eyes and raise my eyebrows as I read is hardly something I would ask anyone else to read.
Plot: The first thing that struck me when I started reading was that this book was...corny. It had that feel to it that I can only describe as juvenile. The use of dialogue, the sentence structure, the characters, the setting, everything. It just seemed unprofessional. And from a man who wrote screenplays and is a movie director, producer, and songwriter, I guess I was just expecting more.
The plot was a good one, with several interesting and unexpected plot-twists. And how can I not like a book where someone dies in the first chapter? But it was just, well, mostly boring. And sometimes awkward. And sometimes just like 'huh?'
Characters: This is my least favorite part of the review to do. I don't like to take characters apart. But in this book, well, I know why Mr. Wallace is a screenwriter. You can create the action and the words and then leave it to the actors and actresses to add the heart and emotion. But The Touch is a novel - and there are no actors.
Writing dialogue and creating characters should be approached in an open way. Putting lines into your characters mouths and simply telling the reader that the person is smart, gifted, handsome, beautiful, ect. it doesn't do anything. Let your characters speak for themselves. You can't force-feed people words - even people in books.
The characters in this book had their moments. There were definitely bits and pieces of brilliancy, but bits and pieces don't make a two-hundred and eighty-three page book worth reading. Not even if you throw in a few plot twists.
Likes: The drama was definitely good. The plot twists, as I have mentioned, were pretty well-concealed and caught you by surprise. And there were times when I thought 'Wow. Maybe this guy does know what he's doing.'
The author interview in the back was interesting and even inspiring and it made me soften my harsher view of the book a bit.
Dislikes: Ok, I don't like and can't stand it when authors use twenty-first century vernacular in their books. It sounds immature, breaks up the flow of the dialogue, dates the book like nobody's business, and also makes me cringe. Usage of terms such as "Who da man? You da man!" and "no problemo" and the like are just what you'd expect from the writings of a little kid who doesn't know better. It's juvenile. And even though the book is set in the twenty-first century and that's how people converse every day, I still think it's unacceptable and makes the characters sound childish.
The sentence structure drove me crazy. I don't know how the grammar was supposed to be set up in this book, but paragraph-long sentences split only in the middle by a semi-colon were just hard to read. I found myself stumbling as I read, trying to maneuver my way around the wonky punctuation. The book didn't flow.
The fact that the Christian message (this was published by Tyndale too!), seemed more focused on 'good works done in secret' than any true power of God or salvation through the blood of Jesus. The message seemed to be 'do good things and you'll have peace and joy and hope.' Uhmm, I think not?!?
The unrealistic things that occurred. Ok, I'm not an expert on medical technology, procedures or anything, but some of the things that happened made me think 'I don't think so'. And the fact that Lara can fit Jones perfectly with a tux (keep in mind that he has certain shoulder and waist specifications. Perfect hero alert!) and shoes after she has only seen him once - and this includes having it altered to fit better. *ahem* Yeah...right...
A food fight between two thirty-something professionals? Come on! I rolled my eyes about that in another book I was reading - which also happened to be written by ten-year-old!
So!
Conclusion: The Touch by Randall Wallace is not a book I would recommend to a friend because it consists of non-believable characterization, grating dialogue, and it's just blah. Boring and juvenile blah. Any book that causes me to roll my eyes and raise my eyebrows as I read is hardly something I would ask anyone else to read.
March 3, 2017
like a piece of haney on my heart
April 4, 2016
Lara studied him, and she knew something out of the ordinary had happened there, though she could not have said what, and she could not have known that something in this was even greater than what Jones had once seen at the Sistine Chapel, for this was alive, this was the Hand of God to Andrew Jones.
I had some idea--but then again, little idea at all--what I was in for when I picked up The Touch by author Randall Wallace, the story of a young, gifted surgeon who refuses to operate anymore after a personal, fatal tragedy.
I didn't know until right before I started reading that this novella is by the screenwriter of the 1995 film Braveheart, but I didn't go on reading with Braveheart expectations or qualifiers in my brain. I just took the story as it came, and although this may not be the place to make any cases on the matter, I would encourage all readers who normally steer clear of novellas because of their "too short" or "no depth" stigma not to prejudge and pass up this book on that basis. It's too nuanced, too raw, too beautiful, too powerful of a story to overlook.
Sometimes, less is indeed more, and the author does more here than just relay a little medical tale. Admittedly, in the beginning, some of the wording and punctuation choices had me thinking the read might turn out to be on the pedestrian and even corny side, but I was proven wrong. Here, medicine and surgery become a song; they're beauty and art, faith and genius, trial and triumph. The whole story is all of these things, both within and outside of the operating room.
It's an excellently woven testament to life and love, and though I couldn't absorb it all in one read-through, what I have absorbed this time is enough to mark this book as one of my all-time favorites.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review, through a rewards program from the publisher. I received no monetary compensation.
I had some idea--but then again, little idea at all--what I was in for when I picked up The Touch by author Randall Wallace, the story of a young, gifted surgeon who refuses to operate anymore after a personal, fatal tragedy.
I didn't know until right before I started reading that this novella is by the screenwriter of the 1995 film Braveheart, but I didn't go on reading with Braveheart expectations or qualifiers in my brain. I just took the story as it came, and although this may not be the place to make any cases on the matter, I would encourage all readers who normally steer clear of novellas because of their "too short" or "no depth" stigma not to prejudge and pass up this book on that basis. It's too nuanced, too raw, too beautiful, too powerful of a story to overlook.
Sometimes, less is indeed more, and the author does more here than just relay a little medical tale. Admittedly, in the beginning, some of the wording and punctuation choices had me thinking the read might turn out to be on the pedestrian and even corny side, but I was proven wrong. Here, medicine and surgery become a song; they're beauty and art, faith and genius, trial and triumph. The whole story is all of these things, both within and outside of the operating room.
It's an excellently woven testament to life and love, and though I couldn't absorb it all in one read-through, what I have absorbed this time is enough to mark this book as one of my all-time favorites.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review, through a rewards program from the publisher. I received no monetary compensation.
February 12, 2013
This was really a good book. Pretty fast read, and I had a hard time putting it down. There was some great advice for life couched in some conversation. "She believed that the best way to do a good deed was to do it in secret. If you commit an act of charity and people know you did it, it drains away the true power of the deed. If someone unknown does evil to you, you start suspecting everyone around you of hair boring hate, and you hate back. But if you're on the receiving end of a truly anonymous act of love, you begin to suspect people around you, maybe even strangers, maybe the whole world, of caring for you. You learn to believe."
Later in the same conversation..."but when every hope you have is shattered and you don't know where to find any, and you don't want to live anymore because you can't find love anywhere, that's when you need more than an idea. That's when you need to do something that no one else knows about, or will ever know. Something you hope will matter, but you can't even be sure of that. It's got to be something that costs you--not just money or time, it costs you your own expectation of a reward. But you do that, you give up your pride, you give up your own secret demand to be God and you make the rules of life, then you get the reward: the experience that life is worth something, that it's a gift, that someone else gave it to you.... There's a price to faith. I've learned to pay it."
Later in the same conversation..."but when every hope you have is shattered and you don't know where to find any, and you don't want to live anymore because you can't find love anywhere, that's when you need more than an idea. That's when you need to do something that no one else knows about, or will ever know. Something you hope will matter, but you can't even be sure of that. It's got to be something that costs you--not just money or time, it costs you your own expectation of a reward. But you do that, you give up your pride, you give up your own secret demand to be God and you make the rules of life, then you get the reward: the experience that life is worth something, that it's a gift, that someone else gave it to you.... There's a price to faith. I've learned to pay it."
July 4, 2012
Andrew Jones life was perfect, his career was set, his future wife said yes and things couldn't be any better. Than tragedy strikes and Jones abilities as a doctor fail him and take the person that means the most to him. Jones puts up walls and puts his surgical skills behind him, he is unable to trust himself to save anyones life and resorts to teaching and helping those with non-life-threatening illnesses.
Lara is driven to find the surgical technique that is the cure to the issue that claimed her mother's life. Hearing about Jones it becomes her mission to convince him to return to surgery and be able to accomplish which many believe to be impossible.
Lara and Jones must go through many obstacles and learn to trust each other and in God. Lara and Jones both have fears that they must face. Will Lara be able to reveal why she is so desperate to find a cure? Will Jones be able to put the past behind him and trust in his gift of touch that God has provided him.
Wallace has written a beautiful tale that will keep you captivated from beginning to end. You will not want to put this book down! Wallace has a way with words and creating characters that will connect with from page one.
Lara is driven to find the surgical technique that is the cure to the issue that claimed her mother's life. Hearing about Jones it becomes her mission to convince him to return to surgery and be able to accomplish which many believe to be impossible.
Lara and Jones must go through many obstacles and learn to trust each other and in God. Lara and Jones both have fears that they must face. Will Lara be able to reveal why she is so desperate to find a cure? Will Jones be able to put the past behind him and trust in his gift of touch that God has provided him.
Wallace has written a beautiful tale that will keep you captivated from beginning to end. You will not want to put this book down! Wallace has a way with words and creating characters that will connect with from page one.
February 3, 2012
I received this book as a GoodReads, first read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, by author, playwright and songwriter Randall Wallace. The main characters were well developed. The storyline was a stretch, but sometimes when I read fiction that is just fine with me. Reading a novel set in Virginia / and Appalachia gave me a fresh perspective. I have never given much thought to the concept of "secret giving," but it triggered some reflection as a I read about it. The writing in this book reminds me a bit of Nicholas Sparks or Richard Paul Evans. I would recommend the book to Sparks or Evans fans.
For me, a bonus is always an "interview with the author" at the back of the book as well as "discussion questions." The interview with the author helps me understand where he is coming from. The Discussion Questions help me reflect a bit more on the content.
I might have rated the book 5 stars, if the storyline wasn't such a big stretch, but a book has to truly make an impression on me to be rated 4 stars.
Thank you for sending me this complementary copy.
For me, a bonus is always an "interview with the author" at the back of the book as well as "discussion questions." The interview with the author helps me understand where he is coming from. The Discussion Questions help me reflect a bit more on the content.
I might have rated the book 5 stars, if the storyline wasn't such a big stretch, but a book has to truly make an impression on me to be rated 4 stars.
Thank you for sending me this complementary copy.
August 9, 2016
From inspiring me with the kilts of William Wallace and Scottish warriors in the book Braveheart, Randall Wallace has done it again, only this time its the surgical touch of this book's protagonist.
I must confess that a I was able to guess the ending only a quarter way into the book, but that didn't matter because the experience leading to it was written so well that I was quick to dismiss its predictability.
In this story, sadness gives birth to a journey of inspirational wealth. It speaks of the test of faith and what we must do when we encounter tragic events that pull us away from our purpose in life. It speaks to the "touch" or gifts that we are all blessed with at birth and how we are to use them to make the world a better place for others. Truly inspirational and entertaining at the same time!
I must confess that a I was able to guess the ending only a quarter way into the book, but that didn't matter because the experience leading to it was written so well that I was quick to dismiss its predictability.
In this story, sadness gives birth to a journey of inspirational wealth. It speaks of the test of faith and what we must do when we encounter tragic events that pull us away from our purpose in life. It speaks to the "touch" or gifts that we are all blessed with at birth and how we are to use them to make the world a better place for others. Truly inspirational and entertaining at the same time!
March 21, 2012
The Touch By Randall Wallace is a wonderful, powerful story of love, pain & healing. I will have to reread this one. I liked the way the author use the tiltle of the book in reference to the story line. An example of this was in the Sistine Chapel when they were lying on the floor looking at the " Divine Touch ", a breath taking moment.. again when Lara said, He has The Touch". The story section about Faith brought tears. A wonderful story I recommed to all.
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