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Gifts and Consequences
When multi-millionaire Jonathan Wheeler’s wife contracts a debilitating illness, it transforms both of their lives. Unconcerned with business and finance, Jonathan turns his attention to giving. But with every offer of a gift, there are consequences.
A high school Senior gets sold-out concert tickets, but only if he takes the ‘friendless wonder’.
A man is given the chance to walk to the ends of the earth to save his true love’s life.
A food addict gets tuition to a weight loss program, along with a promise that he’ll either lose a hundred pounds, or Jonathan will see to it that he gains a hundred.
There’s always a catch, and anyone who agrees to Jonathan’s terms risks even more than they stand to gain.
Gifts and Consequences is a tragic love story to rival Nicholas Sparks, hidden in a story even a guy can enjoy.
A high school Senior gets sold-out concert tickets, but only if he takes the ‘friendless wonder’.
A man is given the chance to walk to the ends of the earth to save his true love’s life.
A food addict gets tuition to a weight loss program, along with a promise that he’ll either lose a hundred pounds, or Jonathan will see to it that he gains a hundred.
There’s always a catch, and anyone who agrees to Jonathan’s terms risks even more than they stand to gain.
Gifts and Consequences is a tragic love story to rival Nicholas Sparks, hidden in a story even a guy can enjoy.
240 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2011
22 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Coleman
12 books132 followersDaniel Coleman spends his time back and forth between two worlds - the fantastic world of Writing where happy endings are common, and the very real- life world of Firefighting where the outcomes are as varied as the emergencies.
A small farming town in northern Utah is his home, where he resides with his wife, 3 kids and an ever-changing menagerie.
Daniel is the co-host of the CREATE OR DIEpodcast, a weekly podcast for creative-minded individuals seeking a career in The Arts.
A small farming town in northern Utah is his home, where he resides with his wife, 3 kids and an ever-changing menagerie.
Daniel is the co-host of the CREATE OR DIEpodcast, a weekly podcast for creative-minded individuals seeking a career in The Arts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 3, 2012
I have read several hundred books during my 18.79 years on this earth. Only few of them have extremely moved me and even less of those I have lost sleep over. But this book, I have to say, is by far my favorite over all the classics and "epic" trending books that have circulated and have turned into movie franchises in the past decade. I received this book on April 30, and I finished it before the day was out. I was actually quite sadden by the fact that I didn't think to savor it more and try and stretch it out over the course of the week. Only at the beginning of "The Final Chapter" did I realize that I had not looked up since I tore open the packaging of my first Goodreads giveaway book. To be honest, technically I did not finish the book within a day as for the better part of the next day, my mind was running over the plot and the concepts present within the book instead of focusing on my schoolwork. I feel even worse for telling my more reading inclined friends about this book, and then lending it out to them to be sucked into this addiction that cannot fairly be reading for this book seems to do much more than other ordinary books. So far in the past 2 days I have had it, 3 people (including myself) have read this copy of Daniel Coleman's Gifts and Consequences The only part of the story that I was not as entranced by was the ending for the obvious reason of leaving an open ending to be imagined as well as the loose end that was tied up by Jonathan coming to terms with a more pure way of helping others. The fact that this almost mirrors the stereotypical fairy tale happy ending of the lead character coming to terms with their faults and the story ending with what appears hints of fairy dust or the deux ex machina factor almost degrades the story if not for the simple awe that the previous 200+ pages created with every sentence.
To simplify my thoughts, this book's ideas would probably be ruined if turned into a movie. But overall, inspirational, steroid injected page turning, and simply a masterpiece in its own right.
To simplify my thoughts, this book's ideas would probably be ruined if turned into a movie. But overall, inspirational, steroid injected page turning, and simply a masterpiece in its own right.
August 23, 2012
I started this book five hours ago. I finished it fifteen minutes ago. Wow.
I probably would've had this done sooner, but I got distracted. First off I realised I hadn't had breakfast. Second, I had a gazillion threads to reply to. Third, I just barely realised I haven't had lunch and I'm starving. XD
Anyway, I liked this book for a bunch of different reasons. A mysterious man in black shows up to random peoples' doorsteps, or car doors, or hotel rooms. It always seems to involve a door. They need something, and he will provide it for them, if and only if they work for it, and never ask any questions about it. This ranges from a boy wanting to go to a concert, a man trying to put his daughter through college, a man trying to find a cure for his wife. If they perform under the circumstances this mysterious man has given them, they'll be rewarded. If not, then they're basically screwed. At first I was like:
And then:
But then it goes back to the part where this man, Jonathan, is talking to his wife, who has Early Onset Alzheimer's. She wants him to dedicate the rest of his life to service, which he does, but he has to set the terms. It mentions several times that he's trying to be God, but he isn't. He wants people to work for what they want/need. It's not going to come free, and Jonathan is a man of his word. If they don't stay true to their side of the deal, he doesn't have to stick to his.
I loved the way the book ended, at the cemetery. It's a special place foe three of the characters, and you get to see them all there at the same time, and their different takes on it.
This book is a definite must-read. :D
I probably would've had this done sooner, but I got distracted. First off I realised I hadn't had breakfast. Second, I had a gazillion threads to reply to. Third, I just barely realised I haven't had lunch and I'm starving. XD
Anyway, I liked this book for a bunch of different reasons. A mysterious man in black shows up to random peoples' doorsteps, or car doors, or hotel rooms. It always seems to involve a door. They need something, and he will provide it for them, if and only if they work for it, and never ask any questions about it. This ranges from a boy wanting to go to a concert, a man trying to put his daughter through college, a man trying to find a cure for his wife. If they perform under the circumstances this mysterious man has given them, they'll be rewarded. If not, then they're basically screwed. At first I was like:
And then:
But then it goes back to the part where this man, Jonathan, is talking to his wife, who has Early Onset Alzheimer's. She wants him to dedicate the rest of his life to service, which he does, but he has to set the terms. It mentions several times that he's trying to be God, but he isn't. He wants people to work for what they want/need. It's not going to come free, and Jonathan is a man of his word. If they don't stay true to their side of the deal, he doesn't have to stick to his.
I loved the way the book ended, at the cemetery. It's a special place foe three of the characters, and you get to see them all there at the same time, and their different takes on it.
This book is a definite must-read. :D
August 1, 2011
About a third of the way into the story I would not have given a rating of four stars. The story seemed to be a series of short stories loosely connected and fairly predictable. THEN the story took off. The series of characters connected and the interactions between husband and wife for the last half of the book were particularly touching. My father died of Alzheiher's disease and the moment when Susan cries and lays her head on his shoulder brought back a variety of memories for myself (The power of a good book!).
Secondary note is the character Oscar and his actions brings up interesting questions regarding revenge/vengance.
Short summary of the book: Individual choices and their consequences, what defines success for any of us?
This book was a gift and I greatly look forward to the authors next creation.
Secondary note is the character Oscar and his actions brings up interesting questions regarding revenge/vengance.
Short summary of the book: Individual choices and their consequences, what defines success for any of us?
This book was a gift and I greatly look forward to the authors next creation.
January 4, 2019
So sappy, but good.
January 27, 2015
Gifts and Consequences by Daniel Coleman
5 Stars
Jonathan Wheeler’s wife has been suffering with early onset Alzheimer’s and when she was first diagnosed she made him promise he would spend his life helping people in her honour. Her illness made him realise his priorities had been wrong for a long time and he deeply regretted that now. Deciding to sell his company, Jonathan set up a new venture with the money he’d made that concentrated on giving individuals something they really wanted. In return for these gifts he never asked more of the receiver than they originally offered to give, though if they failed to stick to the terms there were consequences.
Choosing to use his wealth helping those in need is very noble but sometimes I had to question if Jonathan’s insistence of consequences, should the receiver fail to honour the contract, was noble of him. Personally I’ve always felt you should not give to receive, that if you help someone then in their future they may pay it forward by helping someone else… maybe they won’t, but who are we to control what others do? Though, as people prone to dramatise, we often say ‘I’d give such-a-thing if only …’ in a flippant way, offering an over exaggerated payment to emphasise just how much we want something, but rarely are we actually prepared to pay that price. So for Jonathan to use these off handed comments as the basis of his contract was quite ’God complex’ like, all I can say thank goodness for Marcus and his moral compass!
Gifts and consequences is nothing like anything I have read before, this storyline is totally unique to me and I love the fact that there are still writers out there that can think outside of the box. This is a very powerful and at times emotional story and I was pulled in right away the writing is easy to follow and the storyline is dynamic with interesting characters. I definitely had something to think about once I’d finished the read.
Copy supplied for review
5 Stars
Jonathan Wheeler’s wife has been suffering with early onset Alzheimer’s and when she was first diagnosed she made him promise he would spend his life helping people in her honour. Her illness made him realise his priorities had been wrong for a long time and he deeply regretted that now. Deciding to sell his company, Jonathan set up a new venture with the money he’d made that concentrated on giving individuals something they really wanted. In return for these gifts he never asked more of the receiver than they originally offered to give, though if they failed to stick to the terms there were consequences.
Choosing to use his wealth helping those in need is very noble but sometimes I had to question if Jonathan’s insistence of consequences, should the receiver fail to honour the contract, was noble of him. Personally I’ve always felt you should not give to receive, that if you help someone then in their future they may pay it forward by helping someone else… maybe they won’t, but who are we to control what others do? Though, as people prone to dramatise, we often say ‘I’d give such-a-thing if only …’ in a flippant way, offering an over exaggerated payment to emphasise just how much we want something, but rarely are we actually prepared to pay that price. So for Jonathan to use these off handed comments as the basis of his contract was quite ’God complex’ like, all I can say thank goodness for Marcus and his moral compass!
Gifts and consequences is nothing like anything I have read before, this storyline is totally unique to me and I love the fact that there are still writers out there that can think outside of the box. This is a very powerful and at times emotional story and I was pulled in right away the writing is easy to follow and the storyline is dynamic with interesting characters. I definitely had something to think about once I’d finished the read.
Copy supplied for review
December 18, 2011
Gifts and Consequences by Daniel Coleman is the third literary offering from this relatively new author. It takes an entirely different direction than his earlier Lewis Carroll based works, but it seems that he has the range to make it work. His experience as a firefighter/paramedic has shown him real life tragedy and he translates that experience to the page with powerful results.
The basic story behind the book is a fairly familiar tale. A man who has worked very hard his whole life finds out his wife has early onset Alzheimer's disease and begins to regret his dedication to making money. Susan, his wife, lived her life for others and Jonathon decides to honor her legacy using his fortune.
The methods that Jonathon employs really set this story apart from the many familiar themed books and movies. He has a staff of analysts that spy on emails and conversations in order to find people willing to make a deal. He will only offer his deals to individuals, no groups, and he uses some pretty impressive spy techniques to make sure his deals are honored. The story plays out almost like a series of short stories detailing the lives of some of the individuals that have entered contract with Jonathon. There are people who succeed and some who fail. Throughout the book Jonathon remains loving to his wife and uses the experiences as stories to tell her and bring what comfort he can to her.
This book struck me as a very powerful emotional story and I was extremely moved by it. Although my normal books are much more action packed I was still drawn in by Daniel masterful storytelling. This is a definite must read for pretty much everyone.
Copy provided for review.
The basic story behind the book is a fairly familiar tale. A man who has worked very hard his whole life finds out his wife has early onset Alzheimer's disease and begins to regret his dedication to making money. Susan, his wife, lived her life for others and Jonathon decides to honor her legacy using his fortune.
The methods that Jonathon employs really set this story apart from the many familiar themed books and movies. He has a staff of analysts that spy on emails and conversations in order to find people willing to make a deal. He will only offer his deals to individuals, no groups, and he uses some pretty impressive spy techniques to make sure his deals are honored. The story plays out almost like a series of short stories detailing the lives of some of the individuals that have entered contract with Jonathon. There are people who succeed and some who fail. Throughout the book Jonathon remains loving to his wife and uses the experiences as stories to tell her and bring what comfort he can to her.
This book struck me as a very powerful emotional story and I was extremely moved by it. Although my normal books are much more action packed I was still drawn in by Daniel masterful storytelling. This is a definite must read for pretty much everyone.
Copy provided for review.
July 18, 2011
What a GREAT novel. It’s been several days since I finished reading this and yet I still find it occupying my thoughts. This is the third novel that I have read by Daniel Coleman and I am so impressed with his writing. He has such a talent for making his characters come to life. I care about each one and find myself laughing, worrying and crying with them. Add to that his well-timed wit and superb story-telling and you’re guaranteed a fabulous book, regardless of genre!
At first glance, Gifts and Consequences looked interesting enough, and I thought it would be an entertaining novel like others I’ve read. The “tragic love story” coupled with the “wealthy-man-turned-good-Samaritan”. However, it didn’t take but a few paragraphs into it for me to realize that I was in for much more than I anticipated. The story is very unique from anything I’ve read before and I had a very hard time putting it down when life got in my way. Having worked as an Alzheimer’s nurse, this subject is near and dear to me. Coleman does a remarkable job with this topic and he handles very emotional situations with such realism that I found myself cursing him at times for making me care so much. (That’s a good thing!) This novel easily fits on the same shelf with Nicholas Sparks’ novels, except that even my husband would enjoy this one! I HIGHLY recommend this book. It is appropriate for all ages and will stay with you long after the last page is read.
At first glance, Gifts and Consequences looked interesting enough, and I thought it would be an entertaining novel like others I’ve read. The “tragic love story” coupled with the “wealthy-man-turned-good-Samaritan”. However, it didn’t take but a few paragraphs into it for me to realize that I was in for much more than I anticipated. The story is very unique from anything I’ve read before and I had a very hard time putting it down when life got in my way. Having worked as an Alzheimer’s nurse, this subject is near and dear to me. Coleman does a remarkable job with this topic and he handles very emotional situations with such realism that I found myself cursing him at times for making me care so much. (That’s a good thing!) This novel easily fits on the same shelf with Nicholas Sparks’ novels, except that even my husband would enjoy this one! I HIGHLY recommend this book. It is appropriate for all ages and will stay with you long after the last page is read.
August 14, 2011
Well the last chapter took me awhile to read because I used a lot of tissue. It was a good lesson did not agree with everything but made me think and care and feel,
Jonathan is almost a billionare shy a few million. When his wife got alltimers in her early 40's he sold all his property and closed down his busness at the peak. Susan asked him to always remind her that he was her husband. told Jonathan thier was so much good he could do in her name that she could not do anymore.
So Jonathan does not believe in giving anything without a return. So if he hears someone say they would walk across the US and back if thier was away to save his wife. Jonathan would give him a chance to see if he really would do it but if he agreed and quit thier would be a penalty.
Most kept thier promises and Jonathan kept his word always. He ended up with a lot of employees to help him keep track and to find those that needed help and where willing to do things to get it.
One young woman cat needed surgery and offered to volunteer at vets office in exchange for it. The vet did not take her up on it, but Jonathan did. She volunteered at Humain society for a year and now works for Jonathan. The people who kept their word got what they asked for and learned life lessons in return.
I was touched by this story in so many ways. I would read more of Daniel work. I was given this ebook in exchange for honest review.
Jonathan is almost a billionare shy a few million. When his wife got alltimers in her early 40's he sold all his property and closed down his busness at the peak. Susan asked him to always remind her that he was her husband. told Jonathan thier was so much good he could do in her name that she could not do anymore.
So Jonathan does not believe in giving anything without a return. So if he hears someone say they would walk across the US and back if thier was away to save his wife. Jonathan would give him a chance to see if he really would do it but if he agreed and quit thier would be a penalty.
Most kept thier promises and Jonathan kept his word always. He ended up with a lot of employees to help him keep track and to find those that needed help and where willing to do things to get it.
One young woman cat needed surgery and offered to volunteer at vets office in exchange for it. The vet did not take her up on it, but Jonathan did. She volunteered at Humain society for a year and now works for Jonathan. The people who kept their word got what they asked for and learned life lessons in return.
I was touched by this story in so many ways. I would read more of Daniel work. I was given this ebook in exchange for honest review.
August 31, 2011
I won this book from the Member Giveaways on Library Thing.
Within the last 10 minutes, I finished this book, and had to wipe away many tears. This was such a touching story! This is an example of how one person's life can affect so many others.
The main character, Jonathon, is a multi-millionaire who has all the money in the world, but does not have the one thing he truly desires - his wife Susan. Susan had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease and as she started wasting away, Jonathon decided he would help people in Susan's name. He has a team of workers that help him locate particularly desperate people who, for one reason or another, have expressed the desire for something while giving back in return. Jonathon enters into agreements with these people giving them an awesome gift, if they, in turn keep up their end of the bargain. Some do and some don't, but the choice is ultimately thiers. This book comprises these individual's stories and whether or not they live up to their end of the bargain, resulting in either whatever they had wished for, or to have to pay the consequences. The end of the book involves the death of Susan, after years of wasting away to nothing, as Alzheimer's will surely do to a person. I was very overwhelmed at the sheer emotion the last part of the book gave me. What a lesson to be learned. I encourage everyone to read this book as it has a wonderful message!
Within the last 10 minutes, I finished this book, and had to wipe away many tears. This was such a touching story! This is an example of how one person's life can affect so many others.
The main character, Jonathon, is a multi-millionaire who has all the money in the world, but does not have the one thing he truly desires - his wife Susan. Susan had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease and as she started wasting away, Jonathon decided he would help people in Susan's name. He has a team of workers that help him locate particularly desperate people who, for one reason or another, have expressed the desire for something while giving back in return. Jonathon enters into agreements with these people giving them an awesome gift, if they, in turn keep up their end of the bargain. Some do and some don't, but the choice is ultimately thiers. This book comprises these individual's stories and whether or not they live up to their end of the bargain, resulting in either whatever they had wished for, or to have to pay the consequences. The end of the book involves the death of Susan, after years of wasting away to nothing, as Alzheimer's will surely do to a person. I was very overwhelmed at the sheer emotion the last part of the book gave me. What a lesson to be learned. I encourage everyone to read this book as it has a wonderful message!
May 14, 2012
This is not like Daniel Coleman's YA books, unless you count the fact that it is also well-written, has developed characters, and a gripping plot. This is a contemporary fiction novel. No magic or Wonderland involved.
The story is about Jonathan, a philantropist who is forced to watch his wife's descent into Alzheimers. He makes her a promise to help individuals in her memory. His idea of a gift comes with strings attached. He sets rigid rules and the gifts are only given if all the rules are followed. If anyone breaks the rules a consequence is enforced. The consequence is normally worse than the situation that called for the gift.
The book looks at human nature and it made me ask: What Lengths would I go to for what I want most? Jonathan is not be a devil collecting souls and granting wishes. But he is no saint.
The story is about Jonathan, a philantropist who is forced to watch his wife's descent into Alzheimers. He makes her a promise to help individuals in her memory. His idea of a gift comes with strings attached. He sets rigid rules and the gifts are only given if all the rules are followed. If anyone breaks the rules a consequence is enforced. The consequence is normally worse than the situation that called for the gift.
The book looks at human nature and it made me ask: What Lengths would I go to for what I want most? Jonathan is not be a devil collecting souls and granting wishes. But he is no saint.
May 15, 2012
I did enjoy reading this book, but it was not one of those books that I could not put down. Interesting to see what the characters would be willing to do to get what they want, and equally as interesting to see what would happen if they didn't hold up to their end of the deal. The author chose to jump back and forth between some of the storylines, which I was not all that crazy about. There were two main gift-receivers that he focused on, with shorter blurbs about other gift-receivers. Although mostly interesting, some of it felt a bit random. If you have extra time and no other books really calling your name at the moment, this could be worth the read. I thought it was good, but not great.
January 11, 2015
"Gifts and Consequences" by Daniel Coleman is an original and ambitious book that provided a lot of food for this reader.
Do people have to earn something to appreciate them? Is it right to demand consequences if promises are broken?
The book doesn't answer all of the question it raises but leaves you to ponder them for yourself.
The premise is a good one: wishes are fulfilled as long as promises are kept. The series of 'contracts' reads like a selection of short stories and lets us peek into a variety of lives.
It all comes together in the end nicely. The book was an emotional experience for me with its Alzheimer's theme because I was reading on night-watch for such a patient.
Coleman is an author to watch.
Do people have to earn something to appreciate them? Is it right to demand consequences if promises are broken?
The book doesn't answer all of the question it raises but leaves you to ponder them for yourself.
The premise is a good one: wishes are fulfilled as long as promises are kept. The series of 'contracts' reads like a selection of short stories and lets us peek into a variety of lives.
It all comes together in the end nicely. The book was an emotional experience for me with its Alzheimer's theme because I was reading on night-watch for such a patient.
Coleman is an author to watch.
October 16, 2011
Have you ever wished there was someone to help you in a dire moment of need?
Daniel Coleman has provided us with Jonathan who gives people "gifts" with consequences attached if they don't fulfill their commitment. These "gifts" range from paying for someone to lose weight to helping to pay for medical care for someone's wife who would die without it. He has a team of people that help him monitor the progress of these recipients and a good reason behind his generosity. After reading this, I felt inspired to live life to the fullest.
Daniel Coleman has provided us with Jonathan who gives people "gifts" with consequences attached if they don't fulfill their commitment. These "gifts" range from paying for someone to lose weight to helping to pay for medical care for someone's wife who would die without it. He has a team of people that help him monitor the progress of these recipients and a good reason behind his generosity. After reading this, I felt inspired to live life to the fullest.
July 5, 2012
As I read this story, I kept in mind the biblical advice: you reap what you sow, later than you sow and more than you sow. For those in the story who kept their word, focused on the prize, they won more than what Jonathan had offered. Also, those who focused on their personal discomfort, lost the prize and gained more misery. This story reveals this life principle clearly and effectively. It is just a good read and I recommend it. I rooted for Allen every step of the way, and was sorrowful for Jonathan and his wife.
April 28, 2016
4.5 stars. I stumbled on this book in a free offering on My Book Cave and the write-up sounded intriguing. I downloaded it and read two pages and was instantly hooked. It's a fast read and it has haunted me ever since I put it down. This delivers several emotional gut punches and a three tissue ending. In between I was gripped by each person's story and disturbed by the black and white ethics when Jonathon would determine that someone would have to suffer the consequences. A very powerful read; well worth the time invested.
June 14, 2012
Wow! This book really makes you think. Not in one direction but in several--at the same time!!
My cousin is very talented. He has an ability to make words flow and I couldn't put the book down.
I wanted to know what was going to happen next and how each story would end. Wish I was in a BOOK CLUB, the questions at the end would be fun to disect.
Although I wouldn't give anything away, I will say...that it is true to life. Life has it's ups and downs... and all the inbetweens.
My cousin is very talented. He has an ability to make words flow and I couldn't put the book down.
I wanted to know what was going to happen next and how each story would end. Wish I was in a BOOK CLUB, the questions at the end would be fun to disect.
Although I wouldn't give anything away, I will say...that it is true to life. Life has it's ups and downs... and all the inbetweens.
December 13, 2017
I picked this book up as a freebie from Amazon figuring if I didn't enjoy it I could always just hit "delete". I was more than pleasantly surprised. It was much more than a book about what lengths a person would go to reach an end. It was about how choices affected the giver of the gift as much as the recipients of the gifts. I would highly recommend this read.
August 26, 2012
I loved this thought-provoking, empathy-inducing, heart-wrenching tale. Daniel Coleman is a poet and tells the tale to perfection. I can't wait to use this at book club and hear what everyone has to say about it!
April 9, 2012
Very good book. Well written. I wish I'd read it last year. I would have definitely recommended it for a Whitney Award.
July 29, 2016
What a wonderful read! Be ready to ride an emotional roller coaster as well as varied views of right and wrong. Will definitely read more from this author.
July 5, 2012
Such a beautiful story. In some places difficult to read as I recently watched my mother-in-law's similar decline. So rich in heart. Would recommend to everyone.
August 10, 2012
This book made me cry. Daniel you're an incredible author!
May 9, 2012
Another book I enjoyed. The title fit the book well. Very interesting.
November 20, 2017
Thought-provoking story. (Reminds me somewhat of James J. Kaufman's series, The Collectibles.) The author demonstrates how both the helped and the helpers develop, learn, and become - but only if they chose to do so. The evolution of Jonathan's thinking and behavior was quite interesting (for Christians, think Old Testament vs. New Testament). I'd love to see two things - another book with more about the main characters and "epilogues" for some of the "giftees."
February 28, 2012
I really enjoyed this book... until the end. I found the main character interesting and I liked all of the stories surrounding the people he offers gifts too. I found some of the side characters to be really amusing as well - Oscar in particular. That said, the ending was just ... UGH.
As a side note, the editing was a bit lax as well. At least twice Allen was called Dexter, which was a bit confusing. There were also several instances of added words in sentences (like... "he went I to the store" type of thing) that were also kind of confusing.
I think the story overall had a lot of potential and I enjoyed it, but I think the author made the ending way too predictable and sappy. This book at times felt like a thinly veiled advertisement for Christianity as well, which I didn't like.
As a side note, the editing was a bit lax as well. At least twice Allen was called Dexter, which was a bit confusing. There were also several instances of added words in sentences (like... "he went I to the store" type of thing) that were also kind of confusing.
I think the story overall had a lot of potential and I enjoyed it, but I think the author made the ending way too predictable and sappy. This book at times felt like a thinly veiled advertisement for Christianity as well, which I didn't like.
April 3, 2012
A multi-billionaire decides to 'gift' people their hearts desire according to the terms they set up in moments of desperation. He finds the people by listening to telephone conversations, emails, text messages.
The man believes that gifts unearned are not appreciated, so he gives them the chance to earn it. One story was a man who said that he'd walk across the US if only his wife was cured of a terminal illness. The billionaire offers to take him up on it. Of course these 'gifts' come with a warning: if you fail, the promise is removed. The sick woman would be removed from care. The obese man was told if he didn't loose 100 pounds, it would be ensured that he'd gain 100 pounds. And so the stories go. Some succeed, some fail.
The morality of the eavesdropping, the spying, etc. is never addressed. There is some discussion of the morality of the threats and destruction of the people that fail the test.
The end of the book has all the people whose life have been changed for the good come and tell their stories. But the true question of the book is never resolved: does a positive outcome for the many make breaking laws of both property, person and privacy okay? Every one of those tear-drawing success stories is carried on the shoulders of the mayhem the man and his 'company' commit on those that do not fulfill their contract.
Yes, the man does decide that he is too harsh and takes too many chances with peoples lives. We are told he is changing but we see no evidence. He never suffers a consequence of his illegal activities. Kind of ironic considering how throughout the book he ensures that all those who deal with him and he determines to be 'unworthy' suffer some pretty extreme consequences.
The man believes that gifts unearned are not appreciated, so he gives them the chance to earn it. One story was a man who said that he'd walk across the US if only his wife was cured of a terminal illness. The billionaire offers to take him up on it. Of course these 'gifts' come with a warning: if you fail, the promise is removed. The sick woman would be removed from care. The obese man was told if he didn't loose 100 pounds, it would be ensured that he'd gain 100 pounds. And so the stories go. Some succeed, some fail.
The morality of the eavesdropping, the spying, etc. is never addressed. There is some discussion of the morality of the threats and destruction of the people that fail the test.
The end of the book has all the people whose life have been changed for the good come and tell their stories. But the true question of the book is never resolved: does a positive outcome for the many make breaking laws of both property, person and privacy okay? Every one of those tear-drawing success stories is carried on the shoulders of the mayhem the man and his 'company' commit on those that do not fulfill their contract.
Yes, the man does decide that he is too harsh and takes too many chances with peoples lives. We are told he is changing but we see no evidence. He never suffers a consequence of his illegal activities. Kind of ironic considering how throughout the book he ensures that all those who deal with him and he determines to be 'unworthy' suffer some pretty extreme consequences.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2012
What will we do for something we really want? How often have we said or heard someone say "I'd do anything if ... "? In this novel, Jonathan Wheeler, a multi-billionaire, does just that. He and his team find people who have uttered similar words, and makes a decision whether or not they deserve a gift that will make their wishes come through... but the gifts come with a cost. The recipient of the gift needs to undertake a difficult task, in the full understanding that should they fail in the task, the consequences may be worse than the problem they originally faced.
Jonathan himself has a personal tragedy to bear, his wife suffers from Alzheimer's and is slowly starting to forget everything about her life and his. In a moment of lucidity though, she entrusts Jonathan with the task of helping others with the fortune he's built.
Will a boy take out the most unpopular girl to a dance if he's given tickets to a concert he desperately want to go to? What will happen if he doesn't? Will a man agree to work as a grave digger for a year at a cemetery where his daughter was buried in exchange for his other daughter's college tuition? Will a man walk across the country in order that his wife receives expensive radical treatment?
Jonathan's unconventional methods at times put his gift recipients in dangerous situation, but he believes that there is a hidden strength in everyone.
Some of the stories inspire, even Jonathan, and some disappoint. But is he really bestowing gifts to these people or is he playing God with them? Are gifts truly gifts if they are tied to consequences for tasks unfulfilled, or are they merely rewards?
Definitely one worth reading.
Jonathan himself has a personal tragedy to bear, his wife suffers from Alzheimer's and is slowly starting to forget everything about her life and his. In a moment of lucidity though, she entrusts Jonathan with the task of helping others with the fortune he's built.
Will a boy take out the most unpopular girl to a dance if he's given tickets to a concert he desperately want to go to? What will happen if he doesn't? Will a man agree to work as a grave digger for a year at a cemetery where his daughter was buried in exchange for his other daughter's college tuition? Will a man walk across the country in order that his wife receives expensive radical treatment?
Jonathan's unconventional methods at times put his gift recipients in dangerous situation, but he believes that there is a hidden strength in everyone.
Some of the stories inspire, even Jonathan, and some disappoint. But is he really bestowing gifts to these people or is he playing God with them? Are gifts truly gifts if they are tied to consequences for tasks unfulfilled, or are they merely rewards?
Definitely one worth reading.
March 16, 2015
This author captured my heart. It has often been a dream that if I possessed enough wealth, I would use it to change people’s lives. It seems, the main character in this book sets out to do exactly this, but with a twist.
Jonathan is forced to endure the heartbreaking process of seeing his wife gradually fade away as a consequence of the devastating effects of Alzheimers; her dying wish, that he will use his massive fortune to make a difference. The process of visiting her is at times, harrowing yet he is resolute in his ambition to accomplish her wish.
‘Gifts and Consequences’ is a tapestry of wonderful tales, fused together into a single story. How many times have you heard someone say, I’d do anything if… such is the fate of a man who swears he will lose 100 Lb - or would walk across the country, if it will save the life of a loved one who’s only cure from a terminal illness is a costly treatment which he cannot afford. Jonathan bestows his ‘subjects’ such gifts, in return for their sacrifice. But if they fail, they must accept the consequences. It is the ultimate ‘Faustian Pact’ in every case, a book full of enthralling examples, set to test the mettle of the human spirit. Some succeed, where others fail, but it is the tension of not knowing how each one will pan out, which kept me turning the pages.
I loved this book. It’s times like this when it is a joy to discover something new, that you might not otherwise found. The book was well written and completely original to anything I have ever read before.
This book was gifted in exchange for an honest review.
Jonathan is forced to endure the heartbreaking process of seeing his wife gradually fade away as a consequence of the devastating effects of Alzheimers; her dying wish, that he will use his massive fortune to make a difference. The process of visiting her is at times, harrowing yet he is resolute in his ambition to accomplish her wish.
‘Gifts and Consequences’ is a tapestry of wonderful tales, fused together into a single story. How many times have you heard someone say, I’d do anything if… such is the fate of a man who swears he will lose 100 Lb - or would walk across the country, if it will save the life of a loved one who’s only cure from a terminal illness is a costly treatment which he cannot afford. Jonathan bestows his ‘subjects’ such gifts, in return for their sacrifice. But if they fail, they must accept the consequences. It is the ultimate ‘Faustian Pact’ in every case, a book full of enthralling examples, set to test the mettle of the human spirit. Some succeed, where others fail, but it is the tension of not knowing how each one will pan out, which kept me turning the pages.
I loved this book. It’s times like this when it is a joy to discover something new, that you might not otherwise found. The book was well written and completely original to anything I have ever read before.
This book was gifted in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2012
When I started this book, I thought I was reading The Little Known. So I kept thinking he would flashback to his childhood, or that he would leave a ton of money for a poor kid and wondering why I was reading something so similar to the movie Will Smith was in called Seven Pounds. I got about halfway through it before I decided to investigate and realized my mistake.
Which is unfortunate because this is a pretty good book, but expectations can really color a reading. I did start to enjoy it once I knew what book I was reading. Johnathan is rich and wants to help others, but he does it in an unconventional way. Such as with Allen who says to his wife, "I would walk across the country to save your live", and that's what Johnathan does, saves his wife, but Allen's end of the bargain is to walk across the country or the money for his wife's treatments gets pulled. It raises lots of questions in the readers minds about the rights and wrongs of what Johnathan is doing and what you the reader would do for money when backed into a corner.
Which is unfortunate because this is a pretty good book, but expectations can really color a reading. I did start to enjoy it once I knew what book I was reading. Johnathan is rich and wants to help others, but he does it in an unconventional way. Such as with Allen who says to his wife, "I would walk across the country to save your live", and that's what Johnathan does, saves his wife, but Allen's end of the bargain is to walk across the country or the money for his wife's treatments gets pulled. It raises lots of questions in the readers minds about the rights and wrongs of what Johnathan is doing and what you the reader would do for money when backed into a corner.
October 3, 2011
I am a busy college kid to say the least and while working multiple jobs and attending two different institutions for schooling, this book became my sweet, momentary release from my life as I delved into the lives of these characters. I made a number of emotional connections throughout this book and it is safe to say that Coleman's writing got the better of my emotions on more than one occasion. It was not just the sweet tenderness that emerged from the writing that I enjoyed the most, but also the concepts it presented that greatly intrigued me from the beginning. I found myself conflicted between wanting to know all the details straightaway and not wanting the book to end at all. I literally held off on the final chapter to prolong the time it could linger in my mind. This book is thought provoking, yet an easy read and enjoyable. I look forward to reading more of Coleman's work.
Not to mention, it would make a great movie. Many great movies come from great books. I am glad I took the time to read this book.
Not to mention, it would make a great movie. Many great movies come from great books. I am glad I took the time to read this book.
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