Fifteen Minutes

by Karen Kingsbury, Kirby Heyborne (Narrator)

Overnight, Zack is the nation’s most popular contestant, a country singer with the looks and voice of a young Elvis. As his star rises, Zack is asked to compromise and quiet his beliefs, and also something more. Just as America is falling in love with Zack, just as he’s on the verge of winning it all, his choices lead him to the brink of personal disaster.

At the same time, Reese Weatherly, a therapeutic horse instructor, is no longer sure about her relationship with Zack, or the wedding they had dreamed about. While Zack advances from one round of the competition to the next, an offer comes to Reese--one that will take her to a home halfway around the world.

Then Chandra Olson--reigning diva pop star and one of the Fifteen Minutes judges--intervenes. Chandra has suffered so much public pain and private agony since her days as a Fifteen Minutes contestant. Now she wants just one thing: meaning.

Can Chandra's private losses help Zack find his way, or will his fifteen minutes of fame cause him to lose the life he once loved? Fifteen Minutes is a story of character, compromise, and the cost of having it all. A story that raises the question: Who are the real winners?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Inspirational, Audiobook

12 pages, Audio CD

First published October 1, 2013

About the author

Karen Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. Her Baxter Family books are being developed into a TV series slated for major network viewing sometime in the next year. Karen is also an adjunct professor of writing at Liberty University. In 2001 she and her husband, Don, adopted three boys from Haiti, doubling their family in a matter of months. Today the couple has joined the ranks of empty nesters, living in Tennessee near five of their adult children.

See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...

Reviews

[Chickadee · Rating 1 out of 5]

For those of us who remember "cutting our teeth" so to speak on Karen's first books, there is a glaring difference between the quality of her writing, then and now.

I remember the days of Shades of Blue - Oceans Apart - Like Dandelion Dust. THOSE were Karen Kingsbury novels. Fans of the Baxter series? We all fell in love with Kari, Landon, Ashley, Luke (just to name a few!).

*Rabbit trail.....why hasn't Hallmark picked upon this series yet? Wouldn't this be a great television series similar to what has been done with Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove?

The last few books I've read, have just not been the same. Remember when I said I had outgrown Karen's books?


I loved her first books so much, I decided to give it one last shot.

It did not go well.

I hate giving a negative review, but I have to be honest.

Fifteen Minutes is basically an American Idol transcript in print. It appears to be a lazy attempt at writing a book, and the comparisons are SO similar, the title may as well have been American Idol. I felt like someone took notes during the show, changed a few names and scenarios and published it.

Karen's readers who started out with the early books, are going to be sorely disappointed. This new title should be marketed as teen or youth fiction - it is definitely not in the same realm as her early writing. There is a lack of maturity and depth - the writing feels surface and shallow. The book was completely predictable and I skipped pages and pages.

For younger (teen) readers who love Christian fiction and are new to Karen's books, this will work. For her readers who are all grown up, and met Karen through the Baxter family and her earlier titles - this will not be something you'll want to spend your money on. Huge disappointment.

If you want to read it, I suggest that you check it out for FREE at the library, before you buy it.

[Katee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick, easy read. Karen Kingsbury's books are becoming increasingly formulaic in both style and theme. There is much over the top sappiness and the reader can tell that reality is not like a book. However, this book reads very quickly. Very similar to American Idol, The Voice, or the X Factor. I was upset that the main character Zack didn't have more backbone, but the book had an overarching theme that compromise is strong in the public arena. However, the plot and characters were too simple.

[Jesseca Wheaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was pretty much just what I needed. <3

[Dawn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Zack Dylan can sing and sing well. When he seizes an opportunity to audition for the hit show, Fifteen Minutes, he takes it. He is determined that he can win and save his family's horse farm. Despite misgivings from those who love him - his family and girlfriend - they do offer him their support. Zack is determined to live out his Christian faith in front of the cameras. But when the producers keep trying to push him towards another contestant and to silence his outspokenness of his faith, will he let it happen? Will a taste of fame cause him to lose sight of who he is?

What can I say about this book? True to classic Karen Kingsbury style, she has written a story that will engross her readers. But like her last several books, this one also deals with fame and fortune. I miss the days when she would write stories that had me in tears. Stories that changed lives. I'm not saying that for some people that this book may be life-changing. I'm saying that for me, the story seemed the same as several of her other books. Just change the names and the settings.

Things I liked about this book -
1. The realness of Chandra, one of the judges.
2. Seeing one of the other judges, Kelly, realize the direction her life was taking.
3. Reese - Zack's girlfriend.

Things I didn't like about this book -
1. That Zack found the little things ok to compromise on. For me it made him seem like he was conforming.
2. The entire storyline of seeking fame. Yeah that didn't sit well with me. It seems that she's been so focused in her last several books in talking about the Hollywood lifestyle that I feel she's lost a connection with her readers.
3. I'm not a fan of the singing shows, so I don't know if this really happens or not. But I found that the scenes set on the show were harsh to the contestants and to the readers. It was like the judges/producers didn't care that they'd just crushed someone's dreams.

I had little to no expectations for this book when I started it. So in that aspect, I wasn't disappointed. But I was disappointed in the fact that this book didn't feel as deep as her others. It felt very much like a formula. I'm sure that there will be readers who love this book and it will be the best one they've ever read. I'm not one of them. I'm sorry.

As a longtime fan of Karen's, I'm sorry, but I'm done. I'll reread the ones of hers I've loved over the years, but I will not read her new releases anymore.

I received the Kindle version of this book for free from Howard Books via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not required to like the book or to write a positive review, just to give my honest opinion.

Recommended to (I don't have a problem recommending Karen's books) fans of contemporary fiction, Karen Kingsbury, Katie Ganshert, JoAnne Bischof

Rating - 2 stars. I debated about this a lot. I went back and forth in my head. It's not a 3 star. It's more of a 2.5 star.

[Rissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fifteen minutes ⭐️
Chandra got her fifteen minutes of fame now she’s trying to help others like her not get ruined by the spotlight.
Zack Dylan is on track to become the next winner of the singing competition Fifteen Minutes but will the fame break up his relationship, hurt his faith, or steal his innocence.


I really liked the use of social media being an outlet and tool but also harmful for the singers.
After Zacks twisty road we see the fans start to turn on him because he started as Christian and having the fame get to him and his morals changed he really sees the backlash.
That happens alot with Christian singers. They make their break because its a smaller community then they branch out. There is nothing wrong with that but its sad to see the change, hear the change.
Chandra was really trying to help but there is only so much you can do for someone blinded by fame

[ஐ฿υκєτஐ · Rating 2 out of 5]

İkide birde Tanrı muhabbeti yaplması bir süre sonra yeter yahu dedirtse de Reese'in iki güzel söz ve özüre kanmayıp güçlü durması hatırına iki veriyorum.Klişe kadın karakterler gibi hemen affetseydi bir yıldız alırdı benden.

[Connie Rea · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is my first attempt at a Karen Kingsbury novel. I have to admit, that I've been so confident that I would absolutely love her that I have purchased over a half dozen of her novels in the past when I've seen them on sale. I was thrilled to be picked to receive an ARC of this one to review.

I have read some Christian fiction in the past. I admit, it's not my usual genre, but that doesn't stop me from enjoying a great book. I have given a few my highest ratings in reviews, which I admit I am somewhat stingy with. However, there is no way I am going to force myself to finish reading this novel.

First, let me start off by saying that I enjoy the stuff in the beginning of books. The bits with parts of reviews telling why they like such and such book or the author...however, I was very much turned off that the publishers think I need to be brainwashed to see pages and pages raving about Mrs. Kingsbury. It was total overkill. The other thing, dedications are a favorite thing for me! I always read them! I love them. However, I in no way, shape or form wished to read page after page of personal letters to her spouse or her children and son-in-law. I just thought the bits in the front and then the dedications were way overdone and not called for in a book. My kindle said it took 5% of a a novel that is almost 400 pages long! Perhaps in a personal website this would appropriate. I don't know....I just felt like the author was trying to validate herself to the extreme.....but I thought, okay...her ego has been fed, I shall move on....I will enjoy this book.....

It just isn't going to happen. I honestly tried to move beyond my feelings of discomfort, but at 25% I was still not happy and I finally decided that I needed to move on. Yes, I want to give an honest review. Yes, I thought I would love this book. Yes, I felt grateful to NETGALLEY and the author for providing me an ARC....but I can't change how I feel and I am unwilling to lie about my feelings towards this book.

What bothers me so much? "It's God's will". Okay....I can believe that. But I can't really sit by and read time and time again when one of the characters says this. Especially when I felt that they were saying it to get their way. If someone questioned what they were doing, or what it meant to them, or asked them why, more than one said, to the effect, "well, it might not be what I wanted or what we talked about, but now the chance is here and it must be God's will that it is put before me, so I will do it". It screamed to me that "this is what I want and I will do it because I can say that it is God's will...if it hurts your or you don't agree, so sorry, but it's God's will and you need to deal with it". God might point us where He wishes us to go, but it is ultimately OUR choice. Many have turned away and done the wrong thing....and they have not said, "sorry, but it was God's will that I be selfish and do as I pleased". Sometimes we do things because we are selfish. God has made us so. God lives inside us, but so does sin.

I tried to move past this...and get on with the story...but then I was faced with the characters making bad choices...wrong choices...and once again, they used "God's will" to validate this. Okay, so they went off track, but God put that track there and used it as a test and steered them back to the right course. I call bullshit....I am sorry....I just couldn't finish the book. I found it condescending and felt talked down upon.

Please don't bombard my review and tell me that I needed to finish the book to see how it all comes together. How Kingsbury wanted me to feel that way and she brings it all home in the end....I don't need it...nor do I appreciate it....If you love Kingsbury, I am happy for you and will think no less of you....please think no less of me because she will never be a favorite of mine...

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

With likable characters and heart-tugging scenes, Karen Kingsbury latest novel is sure to garner her new fans! I will admit that I have watched many a season of "American Idol" and Kingsbury does a great job at catching the excitement of such a show in her fictional "Fifteen Minutes" reality t.v. seires. Her writing brings the scenes to life such that I could perfectly picture the contestants and particularly Zack Dylan as he makes his way through the rounds of the competition. My heart was pounding while watching some of his performances and I felt like I was rooting for him as though he were real. Because of this, I felt all the more emotionally engaged when he started down the road to compromise, and I was soon caught up in the drama surrounding Zach, his girlfriend Reese, and the temptation of all that the world has to offer Zach. As he made one poor choice after another, I found myself examining my own life and the areas that I can be tempted to compromise in. I think any of us can admit that there are times our own selfish desires trample the feelings of those around us and lead us down a path away from the good that God desires. The two judges who end up connecting with Zach provide a powerful example indeed in how our culture's long for fame so often leads to self-destruction! Like me, readers will not only be wonderfully entertained but will find themselves challenged in their own walk with God.

I strongly recommend this book and award it a solid rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Not only is this good writing - it is full of powerful truths as well!

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Howard Books (Simon & Schuster Canada), for the purposes of this unbiased review.

[Lois · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. I used to get enthralled with a Karen Kingsbury novel. The plots and characters were believable, and I would be drawn in to their world for the few hours that I couldn't put the book down. I didn't read her last series because they were all about seeking fame and fortune. This one was independent (an apparent stand-alone title) so I read it for literary dessert, since I've been doing some heavy reading lately.

I've never watched American Idol, but this title seems to be a take-off on that concept. Blah. Really shallow idea that Zach (a worship leader at his church) would "fall" for a blond high school cheerleader (who is your stereotypical blond high school cheer leader.) The whole book followed a chronological sequence until the last two chapters or so. It's as if Kingsbury had a deadline and needed to finish the book. ("Now, how am I going to end it? I'll just skip ahead a little bit and tie up this loose end, and skip ahead again and close this. Done.")

Most of the book read like a cheap romance novel, with predictable phrases and formulaic dialog. She even threw in Christianese cliches randomly so the reader would know which characters were Christians. The whole book appeared to be the result of a weekend's worth of writing.

Sorry, Karen Kingsbury, this is not your best work. But, it did fill the need I had of reading an easy, entertaining story.

[Leonie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Indrukwekkend, zet aan het denken over wat echt belangrijk is in het leven

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fifteen Minutes by Karen Kingsbury
Reviewed by Books for Christian Girls
Fiction Addict Blog Tours
Genre: Drama
Publisher: Howard Books
Pub Date: October 29, 2013

Karen Kingsbury’s new book asks the question: What Would You Sacrifice For Fame?

(Synopsis from Amazon.com) "Zack Dylan made a promise to God and his college sweetheart as he left his family’s horse farm in Kentucky to compete on the popular reality television show Fifteen Minutes: If he makes it, the fame won’t change him.

Overnight, Zack is the nation’s most popular contestant, a country singer with the looks and voice of a young Elvis. As his star rises, Zack is asked to compromise and quiet his beliefs, and also something more. Something Zack could never have imagined. Just as America is falling in love with Zack, just as he’s on the verge of winning it all, his choices lead him to the brink of personal disaster.

At the same time, Reese Weatherly, a therapeutic horse instructor, is no longer sure about her relationship with Zack, or the wedding they had dreamed about. While Zack advances from one round of the competition to the next, an offer comes to Reese—one that will take her to a home halfway around the world.

Then Chandra Olson—reigning diva pop star and one of the Fifteen Minutes judges—intervenes. Chandra has suffered so much public pain and private agony since her days as a Fifteen Minutes contestant. Now she wants just one thing: meaning.

Can Chandra’s private losses help Zack find his way, or will his fifteen minutes of fame cause him to lose the life he once loved? Fifteen Minutes is a story of character, compromise, and the cost of having it all. A story that raises the question: Who are the real winners?"


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Series: As of now, no.


Spiritual Content- Ecclesiastes 2:17, Philippians 4:13; All three main characters pray; Scriptures are quoted.


Negative Content- Kelly’s boyfriend smokes weed; a ‘crap’ said by Chandra.


Sexual Content- Kelly says she used to be “America’s Sexist Sweetheart”; Kelly says “Hey Sexy” to her boyfriend; Zach shares some kisses and then lusts after that girl; A (random) girl tweets Zach saying the spot in her bed is his.


-Zach Dylan
-Reese Weatherly
-Chandra Olson
P.O.V. switches between Zach, Reese, Chandra & Kelly
353 pages

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I truly enjoyed this book, but because of the sexual content, I had to lower it. “Fifteen Minutes” by Karen Kingsbury really got me thinking; fame isn’t what it’s cracked up to be.

Fifteen Minutes is available to purchase from Amazon.com & is in stores now!


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

*I received this book as part of the Fifteen Minutes blog tour from Fiction Addict. I received no compensation for this review and only received a copy of the book for review purposes. Review copy provided by the publisher.

[AJourneyWithoutMap · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do you handle your faith if it clashes with your ambition, or for that matter, if your ambition clashes with your faith? New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury seems to be posing this big question in her latest offering Fifteen Minutes, which takes a hard look at pop culture and its inherent physical and spiritual perils.

Zach Dylan is a young man with many loves in his life: his Christian faith, his family, his girlfriend Reese, his farm, his horses, and country music. He's leading a happy life until a financial crisis looms threatening the foreclosure of a family farm. And to add to the family's worry is a sister with Down Syndromes who needs constant medical care. Zack wants to help but there was so little he could do.

When the opportunity to audition for the popular television show Fifteen Minutes came, Zack, a talented singer with the voice and looks of a young Elvis believes that it will solve all his problems. His grandfather tried to dissuade him but in vain. His girlfriend Reese Weatherly initially was apprehensive but believes that Zack stands a good chance of winning and supported him wholeheartedly.

Before leaving home Zack promises Reese nothing would ever change and he will be staying true to her and his faith. Soon Zack became an overnight sensation. During the early days Zack keeps on talking about his family, Reese and his faith but soon he was forced to compromise and the values he cherished so much for so long were sacrificed at the altar of his misplaced priorities. When Fifteen Minutes airs its opening episode that shows Zack and a female contestant Zoey Davis in a dark hallway and kissing - and the media labeling them Romeo and Juliet, a shell-shocked Reese knew it was time to make hard choices.

Chandra Olson and Kelly Morgan are two of the judges in the show. Watching Zack's life spiraling out of control, they are determined not to let him walk the path they had walked, which cost them both dearly. But how will they convince Zack to avoid the traps they fell into? Can Zack reclaim his past, his faith, his family, his values and his Reese or has he gone too far for the damages to be repaired?

Though the ending is a bit of a surprise, it is an appropriate finish to a story that many readers will love to read over and over again. Fifteen Minutes by Karen Kingsbury is a warning that there is a price to be paid for everything while calling on every one to stay true to their values. It is a fascinating contemporary fiction that will leave fans clamoring for more!

[Gabrielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Karen Kingsbury. I always will. There is just something about these books that I inordinately gravitate towards. And I always try to read each of her new releases before too much time elapses.

The story of Zach Dylan is one that is easily pictured. Reading it right around the time that a popular singing competition show is about to air makes the story of Fifteen Minutes all the more real. I found myself putting in names of actual judges and hosts, etc. Perhaps that is a downside--the plot borders on feeling very recycled.

In fact, I personally feel that the character of Zach Dylan is very similar to that of Colton Dixon, the Christian stand out on American Idol a few seasons ago. For all I know, it could be his "unauthorized biography" (though I admit that is DOUBTFUL). I am of the opinion, however, that Karen Kingsbury went to him for "fact checking" for much of this has to have come from insider information as it were.

Yet the fact remains. I loved the characters. I take that back--I found Zach to be an annoying jerk through much of the book and I was okay with where it left him. Instead, I preferred the stories of the other characters involved--Zach's girlfriend, Reese, and the two judges of "Fifteen Minutes"--Kelly and Chandra. While this is a stand alone book, I would not be shocked in the least if Karen decided to do a prequel of sorts (so we could know how characters got to this point) or a sequel (because certain story lines are not wrapped up as well as we expect standalone Karen books to be)

So while the book doesn't have that emotional impact that, say, her "Redemption Series" does, Karen Kingsbury still manages to write books that I enjoy in a day, that I feel a part of.....and this is why she will be one of my favorites in Christian fiction.

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Overnight, Zack is the nation’s most popular contestant, a country singer with the looks and voice of a young Elvis. As his star rises, Zack is asked to compromise and quiet his beliefs, and also something more. Just as America is falling in love with Zack, just as he’s on the verge of winning it all, his choices lead him to the brink of personal disaster.
At the same time, Reese Weatherly, a therapeutic horse instructor, is no longer sure about her relationship with Zack, or the wedding they had dreamed about. While Zack advances from one round of the competition to the next, an offer comes to Reese--one that will take her to a home halfway around the world.

Then Chandra Olson--reigning diva pop star and one of the Fifteen Minutes judges--intervenes. Chandra has suffered so much public pain and private agony since her days as a Fifteen Minutes contestant. Now she wants just one thing: meaning.

Can Chandra's private losses help Zack find his way, or will his fifteen minutes of fame cause him to lose the life he once loved? Fifteen Minutes is a story of character, compromise, and the cost of having it all. A story that raises the question: Who are the real winners?"

II thought that book had very strong characters, that were believable. I really liked seeing what celebrities really go through and kind of what their emotions are. I would have liked to know what happened between Zack and Reese in the end, because you got more closure with the other characters and you could kinda figure out what was going to happen with them. i would ave liked to see more from Reese's perspective. Al in All this was an ok book i'm honestly more into historical fiction, no so much contemporary, also I'm not a big fan of shows like Fifteen Minutes.

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a huge Karen Kingsbury fan. Only a few of her books I still need to read.

Fifteen minutes was again one of her well written books. The main character Zack, has a strong relationship with God and feels he should participate in 15 minutes, a singing competition, and strongly believes he will be able to shine his light to the world and be a testimony for God. He left his girlfriend, Reese behind. But then Zack is faced with some difficult decisions.

I liked the story line. How often are we faced with a similar situation, going in believing we are doing what God wants, but letting pressure or frustration bring us a bit down, and then we are hard on ourselves for messing up, forgetting about God's grace. The way the characters' struggles, decisions and their relationship with God was presented was so true and honest, it could be someone we know.

The character Zack frustrated me a lot. I wanted to hit him behind the head with some decisions he made. I was angry at him and actually told my husband this guy in the book makes me so mad! Why can't he stay strong and make the clear right decisions and how can't he see through Zoey, who also irritated me. But then later when there was a turnaround I felt compassion for him.

The ending left you wondered what would happen between the characters. It felt a bit unfinished. But, on the other hand, the ending was more realistic. I am glad it did not end like one of those romance books where everything just works out like that. Sometimes it takes more time for issues to be dealt with.

Somewhere in the middle of the book I did not like the story much, but by the time I finished the book I was sad to see it end and really enjoyed it.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Karen Kingsbury since she began writing and I keep thinking I've "outgrown" her books. I think they are great for young adult women as well as young girls. However, having said that I don't seem to stop wanting to read them. They are sappy and sentimental, yet I can't stay away. I guess I really like them deep down, even though I don't consider myself sentimental and I'm definitely not in the "young" age category any more.

This book is no exception. I think since Karen's daughter Kelsey married a Christian "star" she is delving into that category in her writing. This story is based on an "American Idol" type program - singing contest - instant fame. The characters are in danger of giving up that which is most important which is their faith and anonymity. The cost of fame is high. This book gives us a real taste of that as well as priorities in life - what is important anyway? This is a great book for star-struck young people - a reality check.

Karen's books always have a great, common-sense message. By moving to Nashville, Karen has opened up a new genre of writing. I love it! I always wondered about the Christian rock stars, how they can keep their humility. This book gives a peak behind that curtain. I consider it a very interesting and entertaining read!

I received a free review copy from Howard Books in exchange for my honest review. I have been as honest as I could. Thank you Howard for publishing great inspirational books!

[Beth Strand · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Fifteen Minutes” Explores the Real Cost of Fame
Zack Dylan can sing. He’s known it all his life and all his life he’s been content to make music for God and family. Now, the stakes have changed. His family is on the brink of losing the farm that’s been in the family for generations and Zack believes that using his talent to win the popular singing show, “15 Minutes” will solve all his problems. Chandra Olson is coming back to judge “15 Minutes” the show that made her a star…and stardom cost her everything that mattered. Can she help Zack avoid the pitfalls of fame or will he have to choose to sacrifice family and faith on the altar of stardom?
Karen Kingsbury delivers consistently high-end fiction. Extremely entertaining and with characters that are very relatable, “15 Minutes” draws the reader right in and keeps you turning pages until the finale. The ending isn’t what you may be expecting and I’m not giving away any spoilers. Get yourself a copy of “15 Minutes” and see for yourself why Karen Kingsbury has such an avid following. “15 Minutes” from Howard Books is scheduled for release on October 29, 2013. (Go ahead and pre-order it, you’ll be glad you did!)
This book was provided to me by the publisher for this review. The opinions, however, are entirely my own!

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As published on my blog:
Hey, Folks!
I just concluded "Fifteen Minutes," the outstanding new work of fiction written by Karen Kingsbury, which was released late last month. As is often the case with this blog, Howard Books graciously provided me with a copy through www.netgalley.com, which is why you all get to see this review. As always, honesty is my policy.
I was excited to add my two cents about this title because it combines two of my favorite things: faith in Jesus and country music. The story follows Zack Dylan as he tries to become famous while still bringing glory to God on a competition show along the same lines as American Idol. Mrs. Kingsbury is one of my all time favorite authors, due not only to her superior writing style, but also her ability to weave solid biblical truths subtly and seamlessly into incredibly entertaining fiction. When I turned the last page, I felt as if I were leaving behind dear friends, not just one dimensional characters in a book. For me, that is the hallmark of a wonderful read. It is a joy to award this volume an exuberant five out of five stars! There is nothing undesirable contained within, but it is probably best appreciated by those who are age twelve and older. Go out and pick one up as soon as possible! Until we meet again...
Happy Reading!
Carolyn

[Gail Welborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

***a story of character, compromise, and the cost of having it all***

Fifteen Minutes, by Karen Kingsbury, the author Time Magazine dubbed "Queen of Christian fiction" exposes the high cost of fame when star-studded dreams become reality. The drama is set amidst the glamour, glitter and glitz of Fifteen Minutes of Fame, a show patterned after American Idol 2014 and "X Factor" 2013 Although elusive temptations may lead to fame they also lead to serious compromise, one seemingly small request at a time.

The story centers around Christian worship leader and teen country singer, Zach Dylan who believes God has given him an enormous witnessing opportunity when he auditions and wins a place on the Fifteen Minutes reality show.

Back home in Kentucky, Zach’s parents, grandpa and fiancée Reese know he’s talented enough to win yet fear the experience will change him, even though his purpose isn’t to seek fame. Zach has no fear of fame since he feels sheltered by his faith in God. Instead, he intends to end the family farm’s financial crisis, pay for his sister’s expensive medical treatments and fund college for his younger brother…Full Review: www.examiner.com/list/fifteen-minutes...

[Carol Nicolas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zack Dylan is a talented singer and songwriter who promises that nothing can change his devotion to God, family, and his girlfriend. But when he leaves his home on a Kentucky horse farm to compete on the reality TV show Fifteen Minutes, he has no idea how hard it will be to keep that promise. The tentacles of fame and success slowly wrap around him, trap him, and squeeze the life out of him until Zack faces personal disaster. His one champion is Chandra Olson, a diva pop star who is one of the show's judges. She has been where he is now, and she clearly sees the path to destruction he travels. The question is, will she be able to get through to Zack before it's too late? This book is a sobering look at the cost of fame, money, and success, and the misplaced emphasis our society places on them.

[Nikolia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've read almost all of Karen Kingsbury's books and this was such a huge disappointment. The writing was terrible, I can't deal with the "cliffhanger" sentences anymore, and I didn't connect with any of the characters. One thing I did like about this book was that it didn't end like I expected it to.

Kingsbury's books used to leave me in tears and enhance my relationship with God, but this book just seemed shallow - including the way the characters' faith is described. There was even a line that said something like, "Fame wouldn't change him. God loved him too much for that." As though he would have no choice in the matter.

OK story, but I hope Kingsbury's next books are more like her earlier writings.

[Lou · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is story is good. Really good. But honestly is not for me. I wish I could say I enjoyed it but I cannot lie, specially when it took me too long to read it.
Maybe I'll be reading another Karen Kingsbury book in the future but I'll make sure I like the plot first and not buy it just because it was five dollars in Barnes and Noble.

[Marnie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Schmaltzy.
The characters were too extreme - Zack is just soooo good-looking (he looks like Elvis... which was mentioned over and over again) and his girlfriend Reese is the epitome of perfection (no one is that perfect. No one.) and Chandra's back-story is soooo heart-breaking (her parents... seriously). Ugh. Too much to take.

[DeborahJean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am always hesitant to read one of Karen Kingsbury's books that doesn't have The Baxter's in it, but she does NOT disappoint.

The Characters are very relate-able and the storyline keeps you interested.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicely done.

[Andrea Corley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Fifteen Minutes: A Novel
Author: Karen Kingsbury
Narrator: Kirby Heybourne
Length: Unabridged; 12 hours 1 minute
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Published: October 29, 2013
Genres: Fiction; Christian Fiction

Visit my review/blog HERE!

My Rating: ✮✮✮✮

Synopsis:
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes a dramatic story about fame, true love, and the cost of having it all.

Zack Dylan made a promise to God and his college sweetheart as he left his family’s horse farm in Kentucky to compete on the popular reality television show Fifteen Minutes: If he makes it, the fame won’t change him.

Overnight, Zack is the nation’s most popular contestant, a country singer with the looks and voice of a young Elvis. As his star rises, Zack is asked to compromise and quiet his beliefs, and also some­thing more. Something Zack could never have imagined. Just as America is falling in love with Zack, just as he’s on the verge of winning it all, his choices lead him to the brink of personal disaster.

At the same time, Reese Weatherly, a thera­peutic horse instructor, is no longer sure about her relationship with Zack, or the wedding they had dreamed about. While Zack advances from one round of the competition to the next, an offer comes to Reese—one that will take her to a home halfway around the world.

Then Chandra Olson—reigning diva pop star and one of the Fifteen Minutes judges—intervenes. Chandra has suffered so much public pain and pri­vate agony since her days as a Fifteen Minutes contestant. Now she wants just one thing: meaning.

Can Chandra’s private losses help Zack find his way, or will his fifteen minutes of fame cause him to lose the life he once loved? Fifteen Minutes is a story of character, compromise, and the cost of having it all. A story that raises the question: Who are the real winners?

My Review:
I must say that I don't really read much Christian Fiction, but was happy with the content of Fifteen Minutes. It wasn't overly Godly or religious, but was enough to know that Karen Kingsbury is comfortable writing about her faith and beliefs, which I really respect. I found the Fifteen Minutes really grasped me and I had to know what happened to Zack on the show and where that left him and Reese. I also found the sub stories of Kelly and Chandra very interesting and liked how they were woven in with the stories of Zack, Zoe and Reese.

The narrator, Kirby Heybourne did a wonderful job reading the book. The only quirk that I had was not with the narrator in particular, but the fact that when it came to a song in the book, the song or lyrics were just read. I think that it would have made this book over the top, and possibly that 5th star read for me if the songs would have actually been sung. It didn't even have to have music to accompany it, aA' Capella would have been just fine, at least for me! I was able to easily following Kirby's reading and kept in tune with the story just fine. He did a great job of distinguishing between characters and made the listening of Fifteen Minutes an enjoyable experience.

I thought that the characters were well thought-out and thorough. I felt like they came from a different breed than the characters I usually read about in mystery and suspense books, however, that different breed was quite refreshing! I thought that there was a great amount of diversity between the characters and they mixed well together to create a great novel. However, I was quite irked by the Zoe kink in the story and every part of that annoyed me, from the beginning and her introduction, to the end result. I felt like she instigated it all from the very beginning to the end, and was disappointed that Zack just let it go when he was confronted with information that she was behind it! That's about the only thing that really got to me, other than the songs not being sung!

The story was a great, lesson-learning story, that I am thrilled to have been able to read. I didn't necessarily care for the ending too much, because I felt like it left too much open, left too much for me to guess what happened. I would have liked a more defined ending as to this is exactly what happened. I could easily see the theme of the book and the point that Kindbury was trying to convey to her readers that even people with the strongest faith, can be changed in a matter of seconds, without even realizing it, that it is harder to be true to yourself and your faith than you may think that it is.

Overall, I really enjoyed listening to Fifteen minutes while driving, and found myself just wanted to drive more or wait in the car just a little bit longer just so that I could listen to a little bit more. This was my first read/listen by Karen Kingbury, as well as my first real Christian Fiction book, but I can assure you that it won't be my last from either! I really did enjoy this book!



Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book by the Publisher, Simon & Schuster Audio via Audiobook Jukebox in return for an honest, unbiased review.

[Sarah Craven · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ This has been recommended to me twice in the last two years now, and can I tell you? They had it right. Love, love, loved it. God’s voice moments always gave me chills, as I’m trying to do a better job at LISTENING to Him, and just the background of how a reality show works had my stomach dropped a couple of times. We all know they work it that way. I feel like she did hang onto the reality show part a little too long, as I wanted to see what happened with him and Reese - but a very beautiful story about real life and the world we live in.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read by KK . It shows the cost of fame and the reality of the reality singing competition shows. The plot is engrossing and keeps you wondering what is really going to happen to the hero. I was a little disappointed that the ending kept you hanging some...but again the reality thing. If you are an American Idol or The Voice fan this is a must read for you. Strong Christian message and a hero worth rooting for.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the glimpse into celebrity life. The message was clear: it ain’t all it appears from this side of the screen/media machine.
A cautionary tale.
A bit too repetitive and “overdone” for my reading taste .. and I felt like it was aimed at
a reader in their 20’s which I am way beyond.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh.