The Reluctant Prophet: The Autobiography of a Clairvoyant

The Reluctant Prophet #1

by Nancy N. Rue

At age forty-two, Allison Chamberlain is still making a half-hearted attempt to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up. Although she has been a pew-sitting member of a church for seven years, "prophet" has never been on the short list of possible careers.

Then one Sunday Allison senses a divine nudge to buy a Harley motorcycle and go wherever it takes her. Soon she is wondering if she is called to present the reality of Christ to one of society's darkest corners--and challenge her own church to look beyond their fears.

The first in a brave trilogy from seasoned author Nancy Rue, "The Reluctant Prophet" shows how one person's response to God's call can change a community forever.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Faith, Christianity, Mystery

238 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Nancy Rue is the author of over 100 books for adults and teens, including the Christy Award-winning The Reluctant Prophet, Unexpected Dismounts and Healing Waters (with Steve Arterburn), which was the 2009 Women of Faith Novel of the Year. She travels extensively—at times on the back of a Harley—speaking to and teaching groups of women of all ages. Nancy lives on a lake in Tennessee with her Harley-ridin’ husband, Jim, and their two yellow Labs (without whom writing would be difficult).

Reviews

[Pamela Aidan · Rating 4 out of 5]

While looking over catalogs for adding books to my library (public library of which I'm the director) I came across Nancy Rue's follow up to Reluctant Prophet. Since I hadn't heard of the original, I checked it out at the usual reviewing stops and decided to take a chance. I'm glad I did. Now this conclusion surprised me, for as a Christian I am extremely disappointed with what passes as "Christian fiction." Frankly, it's awful and the more there is of it out there, the worse it seems to be getting. But, I am ever hopeful and the larger number of novels being published means that there might be some real writers out there that know how to bring their convictions into their work without cliche, theological goofiness, or Bible-thumping. It's hard, there's no doubt about it, but I keep hoping.

This brings me to Reluctant Prophet. It sounded intriguing, but also a little goofy. A 40-something single women experiences "nudges" from God that defy commonsense, witness: the first one is to go out and buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle! Not your typical Christian novel or starting point for a change of life, especially for the main character who has no desire to own or ride a motorcycle. But the "nudge" won't quit and so she does. Then the Harley takes her places she never thought to or wanted to go. No, it doesn't swoosh her there against her will, like My Mother, the Car. It's all a natural progression caused just by the fact of the bike itself and what happens as a result of riding it.

I'm impressed. The writing is quick, breezy and a bit snarky. The situations are realistic and the main character's slow, painful growth is too, especially so when her eyes are opened to the failures of the very church people who had helped her to faith in Christ. Rue's sermon to the choir here is gutsy, because so many of us would have given the heroine the very same council.

Looking forward to book two Unnecessary Dismounts. We'll see if Rue can continue to make it real.

[Laura A. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Reluctant Prophet" is one of those books that left me completely speechless! It completely shocked me in the depth of the story and the power of following Jesus! It was definitely a book that is not meant for the light of heart by any means, but for those who long to live out the question in everyday life: "What Would Jesus Do?".

Nancy Rue has used the main character Allison to show the effects that can happen when we ask that powerful question. Not only are our lives changed and our relationship with God takes on a whole new meaning, but the people around us are changed. There seeing a God who is real and not the big man upstairs who could care less about humans. No, there is unconditional love in every action (well at least to best of our ability! Like Allison we might need to have a backup of Oreos in case anything goes wonky) and is then that people see the real Jesus.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the humor that Nancy weaves throughout Allison's lives as well as her way of thinking! She is so easy to relate too in the way she handles situations and her witty comebacks! She is a one of a kind of character who definitely does not fit the typical character mold! The growth that she experiences throughout all her adventures is so inspiring! Her struggles are not unrealistic with the things she's doing based on her Nudges from God! It's definitely through God's strength as well as His help (humor probably helps too) that she is even doing what He is telling her too!

Overall, I loved "The Reluctant Prophet" and strongly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a novel that delivers a powerful message with unforgettable characters! They might just stir you to not only ask the question WWJD, but to live out the answer to that question as well (I know for me it did)!

I give this novel a 5 out of 5 stars!

[Melissa (Hiatus due to Death in Family) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t get comfortable! Rue’s latest novel will have readers re-examining their faith and how to make it real in the world today. True-to-life characters and situations shine amazing light on how Christians can make a difference in the present culture. This story will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.
One Sunday, Allison Chamberlain feels a strong nudge from God to purchase a motorcycle. At first, she thinks she’s crazy, but Allison learns to follow these nudges, even though they may seem far-fetched. The Harley leads Allison to become involved with people she never would have looked at otherwise, and her faith is stretched beyond what she could have dreamed.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

SUMMARY: At age forty-two, Allison Chamberlain is still making a half-hearted attempt to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up. Although she has been a pew-sitting member of a church for seven years, “prophet” has never been on the short list of possible careers.

Then one Sunday Allison senses a divine nudge to buy a Harley motorcycle and go wherever it takes her. Soon she is wondering if she is called to present the reality of Christ to one of society’s darkest corners—and challenge her own church to look beyond their fears.

The first in a brave trilogy from seasoned author Nancy Rue, The Reluctant Prophet shows how one person’s response to God’s call can change a community forever.

REVIEW: At the beginning, I didn't think I was going to get interested in this book; but as it began to pick up, I found this novel more and more intriguing. Allison is definitely a lady who marches to her own drummer and has the strength of her convictions. I admired the fact that when God nudged she may have thought it was crazy but she believed and followed through. Also liked that the author focused on God's purpose for us on earth is not to be just "pew fillers with fellow Christians".

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Quickie Review

Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you."
-- Matthew 21:31c (NIV)

Edgier than the usual Christian novel, Nancy Rue takes us into the dregs of society...a place where people need hope. Narrator/protagonist Allison Chamberlain has had a tough life, but, seven years after becoming a Christian, she hears God tell her to buy a motorcycle and see where life takes her...and, boy is it a crazy ride! This kind of book may not be for everyone, but, for readers who don't mind the edgier themes, this is definitely worth reading; you may be challenged to do like Allison did!

Score: 4/5

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reluctant Prophet is a completely engrossing book, as each of Nancy Rue's books are. But beyond that, it is a convicting read as well, as Allison steps out of her comfort zone to follow God's leading in a whole new direction. And the conviction doesn't stop with Allison's actions. The reactions of the "Christians" in her life also hit a little too close to home, unfortunately. How often do we as believers try to temper others when they take bold steps in living out their faith? Even before it won the Christy Award, I considered this to be Nancy's most stellar novel. . .and I have loved her previous ones. I promise, it will stir your heart -- and quite possibly your hands and feet!

[Amanda Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allison Chamberlain is a 40-something woman who's lived her Christianity behind stained glass. She's never had any interest in riding a Harley, certainly not in buying one, but one morning at church, she feels a divine "Nudge" to do exactly that. With no idea why God could possibly be asking this of her, Allison obeys. The purchase puts her on a road to meet new people. Her life changes, both instantly and slowly, as for the first time she is faced with the plight of "the least of these."

Ms. Rue's first person voice and dialogue are engaging as always. I really love her deep-point-of-view style. In fact, this might be the main reason I've never missed one of her adult novels (until this series; I realize all three are out and I'm just now getting to the first one). Her craft is truly excellent. This is a stellar example of a character-driven novel. If you're a reader who defines "plot" as high-speed action, then this book will move slowly for you. The story is about people, their interactions and reactions. Its fuel is more tension than suspense. But when the characters are well-drawn, this apparently works for me.

In the first chapter, Allison downright irritated me. I wanted to keep reading to discover if I'd ever like her. (I do, of course.) She's a complicated character--sardonic and sincere, tough and vulnerable, uncertain and determined, relationship-impaired in her own eyes yet constantly forging new connections with people who need her help.

Then there's Desmond, a fatherless twelve-year-old whose mother is slowly destroying both of them with her drug addiction and prostitution. Desmond is nearly as layered as Allison herself, swaggering and sweet-talking his way out of trouble, swearing and stealing because he's never been taught not to, yet also an artist with surprising insight into the people he draws. Another unexpectedly nuanced character is Bonner, the annoying-like-a-brother guy Allison knows from church who'd ask her out if she'd say yes. I didn't expect him to come through in such great ways by the end.

The Sacrament House "sisters," women rescued from prostitution and turning their lives around with the help of Allison and God, are more a collective character than individuals. Though each has her own broad personality type, they aren't given the details that would breathe them to life. The same goes for Allison's small group at church. However, I can't really consider this a flaw. The book has quite a large cast. Not everyone can be as deep as Allison and Desmond.

One character I hope will be developed a lot more deeply in future books is Chief. He's pretty awesome already (Harley-riding lawyer with piercing "eagle eyes" and an unflappable personality), but I know almost nothing about him at this point. I want details on his skepticism toward God, his friendship with Hank and how it began, his family (does he even have one?) ... etc. Yes, I'm most definitely going to be reading Unexpected Dismounts, and curiosity about Chief is a big reason for that.

And now, a word (or ten) about the theme, since that's clearly where this novel's creation started. I could do with a little more subtlety. In fact, I was surprised how close the author came to preaching, since that isn't her usual tendency. Her message is two-pronged. First, legalism is not what Jesus taught and, as such, is not true Christianity. (With this, I agree entirely.) Second, love is what Jesus did teach and, as such, is what true Christians will spread and teach.

With this one, I agree, too. But Allison (and thus the author) often seems to believe that love equals acceptance. Period. It's a thin line to walk, I know, but it is a line. The scene that most bothered me is between Allison and her soon-to-be-former pastor. Now, to this point, Allison's church has not in any way supported her efforts with sheltering and rehabilitating these women. Her fellow church members (including her pastor) are all in favor of checking the women into rehab and doing other things from a distance. But up close and personal with hookers is a little too dirty-hands for them, and Allison's involvement is making them uncomfortable. Reverend Garry shows up to try to bring her back into the fold of the prim and proper. Thing is, his theology isn't wrong, merely his application of it. But Allison condemns both. From page 403:

[Garry]: "I just don't want to see you water down the gospel. We can't call someone a Christian just because she's stopped using drugs."

[Allison]: "Our trouble is that we're not talking about the same gospel. The gospel I know is the one where Jesus preached and lived the unconditional love of salvation. You know--the one where he ate at the same table with the hookers and the drug addicts and the victims of injustice and poverty--that one. The one you're talking about is the one I haven't read--where only the right kind of people get into the closed club and get saved."

The implication is that the Gospel is simply unconditionally loving people. End of story. Yes, Jesus ate with "tax collectors and sinners." He also called them out on their sin and told them to repent. There's not a single scene of repentance in this novel.

Interestingly, however, there are moments in which one or another of the rescued women seems to be behaving post-repentance. They're studying the Bible. They're telling others about Jesus. They're taking communion and seem to understand and embrace its meaning. Near the end, Allison describes salvation as embracing Jesus "as our personal savior" and describes one of the women as "on her way to a life of discipleship." So I guess the Gospel is present here, on the whole, but some parts of it are definitely glossed over. Which would likely bother me less if the book didn't fervently want me to agree with everything Allison says.

For the overtness of the themes and some truth blurring, I've got to deduct a star. However, I fully intend to read and enjoy this series. Nancy Rue has penned some of the best literary Christian fiction I've read. Her dialogue is clever and genuine and contains just enough humor. Her prose is unobtrusive yet artful. And her point of view is delightfully deep. I'm still a fan, and I look forward to the next book and, hopefully, finding out who Chief is on the inside, and why.

[Marci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allison is working driving a horse and carriage as a tour guide in St. Augustine, FL. Then, while sitting in church, she feels God telling her to buy a Harley. She resisted this "nudge from God" as she calls it because she has never wanted a motorcycle and doesn't know anything about them. But by following this prompting, it leads her down a path to new friends and a new, worthwhile mission in life. As I read, I was amazed at how courageous she was to follow the promptings without knowing where they would lead. I also wondered at how she was able to survive without a job, but God provides. This was almost like a coming of age story, but about a middle age woman. I guess it is never too late to heed promptings and do good in the world.

[Annette · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Reluctant Prophet is book one in The Reluctant Prophet series.
Book two is Unexpected Dismounts, was published October 2011.
Book three is Too Far to Say Far Enough, release date October 2012.
I studied the reviews on Amazon, Christian Book, and Barnes and Nobles, and all three sites gave the book five or nearly five stars.
The Reluctant Prophet won best in Contemporary Series at the
Christy Awards in 2011.

Allison Chamberlain age 42 is a new Christian, unmarried, and an independent minded woman living in St. Augustine, Florida. She works for a tourist company---Camelot Carriage Service. She attends a non-denominational church. She has few friends she associates with. During a Sunday morning worship service, and while she's comparing herself and checking out the other members in the church, and wondering "what's going on with her own life?" She feels a nudge, and hears a voice in her head telling her to, "Go out and buy a Harley."
She is shocked, her stomach heaves acid. She wonders at the audacity of this request. The motorcycle adventure is just the beginning of her life turning upside down.

Positive Points:

This is a story I've not heard before and I have high regards for the author telling it.
The focus is not on a complacent Christian, but on a gal willing to get out of her comfort zone for the sake of helping others.
I loved the opening line. "I found Jesus seven years ago, but until that Sunday morning, I didn't know what to do with him."
Allison speaks provocatively, raw, boldly, a bit bawdy. Her character is not a timid damsel in distress, rather a woman with a past we don't hear about in the book, but it's obvious she has hidden pain.
Allison means well by her words and actions even if she come across as abrasive and unteachable.
I loved the background characters more than Allison. Hank (Henrietta, but don't call her that) is a solid voice of compassion as well as mentor for Allison. She is one of the few people Allison respects and listens to.
Those "broken winged birds" that Allison devotes her life to gave me insight to a troubled world I know minimal information about.
I loved page 239, a heart-felt prayer between those who gathered together to pray for guidance and direction.

Negative Points:

Allison's focus is to help others with food, clothing, shelter. She is a compassionate person and selflessly devoted to helping others. Yet, the Gospel message is most important. I know, you may be thinking, but what about empty stomachs and people who are sick or without a place to lay their head at night. I didn't say these things were NOT important, I said the Gospel message is THE most important.
When others such as the preacher tried to talk with her about this "mission work" she was doing, Allison became defensive and in a huff walked away.
Allison is too defensive and does not reflect on the thought she may not be 100% correct. She heard a voice and obeyed, yet this does not account for human error in things. Humans err all the time. It is never--ever a wise thing to not listen to what others have to say, we should at least give some thought to what people have expressed---maybe they are right, or maybe they are not. Humility goes a long way!
Allison does not seem to know Scripture. She has been attending church services, but I don't recall her depending on the Word of God to give her direction. I find this interesting given a prophet follows what the Word of God states, we have His Word the Bible, and this is our primary "voice" from God. I'm not saying we cannot not "hear" that small voice or impression in our inner person. I am saying God's Word is the primary way we "hear" from God.
Allison has a chip on her shoulder about Christian's. She thinks they are judgmental, yet she too is judgmental.
She is a character that is full of sarcasm, defiance, bravado.
Page 403. "Our trouble is that we're not talking about the same gospel. The gospel I know is the one where Jesus preached and lived the unconditional love of salvation. You know-the one where he ate at the same table with the hookers and the drug addicts and the victims of injustice and poverty-that one. The one you're talking about is the one I haven't read-where only the right kind of people get into the closed club and get saved." Spoken by Allison.

You do have to be the "right" kind of people. You have to be in a "right standing" or justified before God. The only way to be in a "right standing" or justified before God is to accept His Son Jesus Christ. See Philippians 3:8-10; Romans 3:22-26.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate the courage of Nancy Rue to write a Christian fiction book that challenges Christians to do better, willing to go so far as to question what we mean when we say “we led someone to the Lord” and “plan for salvation.” Sometimes dark and gritty, The Reluctant Prophet is a refreshing take on Christian writing that asks us to leave our comfort zone and consider the shortcomings of our Christian walk. I do think this book could benefit from better editing, and I feel some portions got more of a storybook gloss than is realistic (detox is so complex and so often unsuccessful) but I appreciated Rue’s efforts to depict this world accurately.

[ScriptLit-You Are What You Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

#bookreviewfriday
#2023readingchallenge
#43AboutDiscipleship

Book Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

# 43 About Discipleship

Book: The Reluctant Prophet
Author: Nancy Rue
Narrator: Kirsten Potter

If I could, I'd give this book 10 stars. My favorite book of the year so far. Definitely deserving of a five star and beyond rating.

I'm still recovering from this book. If you know me, you know contemporary is my absolute least favorite genre, but this year, I've read books determined to change that.

This book was one I absolutely didn't see coming, and I'm so glad I added it to my list. This was a beautiful story of discipleship.

Allison hears the weirdest most incongruous message from God, and despite the objections of church members and her small group she decides to listen. That decision puts her in a position she never imagined she'd be in.

This story has so much heart. It made me question how many nudges from God I actually listened to? How big is my faith? What am I willing to do to help my fellow man, especially if it requires me to get down and dirty and uncomfortable.

Allison answered the call in such an organic and beautiful way. When God told her to take in a prostitute and her son, she listened, even when the call required her to go in to an underworld she never even knew existed.

The book doesn’t just stop there. Allison is not the only hero. I really loved that the former prostitutes are given personalities and back stories, they are three dimensional. I got to see their growth as people and their growth in Christ. I got to see the ripple effect of discipleship. What Allison did for them they turned around and did for others.

Allison is introduced to a world of people she never would’ve previously spoken to not just former prostitutes, but Harley riders with hearts of gold willing to help her and her newfound ministry.

I loved all of them, but my favorite character by far was Genevieve‘s son Desmond. I loved the relationship formed between him and Allison. She never knew she could be a mother figure until she met a street wise kid that yearned to be a child and have a childhood. I loved Desmond so much! He was such a cute kid, I loved his "street lingo" and watching him become a kid instead of a guarded street urchin.

This story gripped me and didn't let go. Warning, It had some dark scenes, detailing drug withdrawal and abuse, but it was necessary to the plot, and not gratuitous.

As stated, this is my favorite book of the year so far! I highly recommend it, the author and the narrator. Additionally it was a Christy award winner and I see why.

https://m.facebook.com/groups/scriptl...

[Christy Trever · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reluctant Prophet by Nancy Rue is an inspiring story of learning to listen to God. Allison Chamberlain is settled into her life at forty-two as a horse-drawn carriage driver in St. Augustine, Florida. She attends church regularly, enjoys a good relationship with the members of her Bible study, and living alone, until she gets a very distinct message from God to buy a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. This begins a rapid change in her life as she continues to listen to "Nudges" from the Lord. She buys the bike, takes lessons to ride it, becomes involved in the local owners group, HOG, and then feels drawn toward King Street, the red-light district in town. Chief, one of the HOG leaders, introduces her to a man dying in a nursing home whose only request is to see his crack-addicted prostitute daughter Geneveve before he dies. Allison answers that request, so when he gives another, to take care of Geneveve and her son Desmond, she can't say no to the dying man. Soon Allison has two more prostitutes living in her home, along with Geneveve and charming yet troubled Desmond, and she is ministering to them however God calls her to, which turns her Bible study friends and pastor against her. But Allison has been given a mission from God, and life has just gotten very interesting. I'm a big fan of Rue's Sullivan Crisp series with Stephen Arterburn. Her fiction has an unexpected depth and some of the most three-dimensional characters I've ever encountered. Reluctant Prophet is even better than my expectations. Allison has a very complex history, and she is a bit off-putting at first, but once readers fall in love with her, the pages begin to really fly. Rue brings up some difficult issues about American Christianity: salvation is for only the right people, if a person isn't living the life we approve of they aren't saved, and what does Jesus' life tell us to do about those in need? Allison's disillusionment with her church and pastor is, I think, very symptomatic of what is going on in with Gens X and Y in their relationship with the church. Rue somehow manages to do it all with both a sense of humor and a unshakable sense of righteousness. I don't think that Allison's story is over yet, there are some storylines open with Troy and her family history. I hope that Rue writes another book using this amazing cast of characters again soon!

[Anna Tan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reminiscent of Charles Sheldon's In His Steps, The Reluctant Prophet follows the story of Allison Chamberlain as she gets a divine nudge to do crazy things - like buy that Harley Davidson she doesn't even know how to ride. And care for that broken prostitute and her loud-mouthed son who have just lost their father and grandfather. Allison isn't always certain that she's hearing God's voice right, but that doesn't stop her from doing her best to follow what she believes is His will for her life.

Rue addresses several issues in this book - the call of God to take care of the broken and the downtrodden, the religiosity that has crept into the church, and the ability of one person, who opens her heart to God, to start making changes in her community. One of the things I liked about this story was the way it dealt with doubt and faith - and not knowing all the answers. It opens a place for dialogue for people who are struggling with their calling, especially when it is not quite accepted by the church.

Another thing I think this story addresses is the fact that people in the church can and should do ministry with the help of non-believers - one of Chamberlain's greatest support was her fellow HOG, Chief, who's quite a skeptic about God.

The book is not without it's faults: sometimes things just seem to fall into place too easily and too quickly. Sure, Rue is showing that God is sovereign and he uses our background and past even before we knew Him to equip us to do what He wants us to do today, but I would think that a more faith-driven approach might have been a better touch.

On a whole, The Reluctant Prophet was a great read - one of the better Christian fiction I have read in a while. This is the kind of thing that "Christian fiction" needs more of. (Well, I think so anyway).

[Lori Twichell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Populated with characters that are very real, down to Earth and fantastically entertaining, Rue gives us a guided tour through the life and the daily musings of someone who knows things she doesn’t want to know and does things that many people would consider outrageous. Rue does an exceptional job in giving us an idea of what a modern day prophet might be like. With words that she knows aren’t hers and actions that she knows couldn’t be considered sane, Allison doesn’t want to be a prophet. As much as she’d like to deny it though, she knows that The Nudge is from God and that He is what’s taking her into this new part of her life. And later, when she needs to confront her past, it’s The Nudge that won’t let her ignore it.

This book is a journey of discovery. People who are completely lost in sin transform their lives into something beautiful and new. People who think that they’ve left their sin in the past when they’re really still carrying it with them learn how to let go.

Stunning. Heart-wrenching. Beautiful and amazing, Rue’s book, if given the chance, will do more than let you escape for a few hours. It has the potential to transform your thoughts and change your perspective. This is a book that would be a great gift for just about anyone. It’s an exceptional read, a gripping story and sometimes, a harsh commentary on the Christian world that is absolutely necessary. I’m honored to have received this book for review and can’t wait to see what Nancy Rue has in mind for her next offering.

*Review copy provided by David C. Cook

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was hard to know how to rate this. I wish I could give a two stars to the first half and a four stars to the second half. It was just so, so hard to get into. I didn't relate to the main character and honestly thought a few things about her were a bit inconsistant. And I'm not too intersted in motorcycles. I also struggled with all of the "cool talk", with phrases like "In my grill", etc. A few would've been fine but so many after awhile it seemed to be trying too hard and those kinds of phrases are dangerous to put into a novel because they're just so quickly dated. BUT the plot and the characters really started to grow on me by the end. I did love the way it challenged our "safe" church people habits and the way we tend to talk about boundaries and not burning ourselves out when often this is opposite of what God calls us to. I also felt like the author must know a lot about addiction because her stories of helping the ladies out of their addictions was pretty accurate and not over-romanticized or sensationalized. It inspired me to believe the best about the people in my life who struggle.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me and I was warned it starts out slow.

It's a good thing she warned me of that otherwise I probably would not have kept with it.

But once you are into the book, it is enthralling.

I read the first Yada Yada book and this one is similar but not really. And while the Yada Yada books were good, I think this was much better. I just ordered it for my mom, who is a huge Yada Yada fan, to read. I am quite interested in her take on it.

I know it's just a story but the book sure makes you question your faith in God and why you believe what you do. Or more correctly, why you act the way you do.

Big Al, fictional though she is, is my hero.

[Pj · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! Modern day strong willed woman looking for a way to really live out her faith. One day, nudge nudge and a "voice" tells her to buy a Harley. Instead of ignoring the voice, she follows it's leading and the results just keep getting her more involve and more willing to share with others how her relationship with Jesus feels.The story is set in present day St. Augustine, Fl where I had just vacationed. Ms. Rue story telling allowed me to return to Florida and I could easily picture all the places Alli traveled on her Harley. READ IT

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story. It has fun characters who are bold and brass in a good way. It takes spunk sometimes to step out and be who God is calling you to be, not what other people want you to be. I like getting real with reality, there was that in this story. Somewhere along the story line, I lost interest. I don't know why. I like several of the characters and their personalities. I just wonder if there was too much distraction around me. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.

[Victoria Bylin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed every page of "The Reluctant Prophet." The characters all tugged at my heart. The action kept me turning the pages. The writing itself is both simple and elegant. Best of all, it made me think about Nudges, hard choices and taking things one ride at a time. Loved it! Am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for anyone needing a spiritual drink. The characters and dialogue were relatable. The situations and plot twists were believable and realistic and the ending bittersweet. highly reccommend.

[C.J. Darlington · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rich novel that you'll be thinking about long after you turn the final page. It challenges us to take our Christianity outside of the church building and out where the people are. Bravo, Ms. Rue.

[Teri Pre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Can't wait to read the second one.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want a fiction book that will challenge your faith, this is it!

[Parkland Mom]

Attempted about 2020. It didn’t hold my interest. Not for me so I didn’t finish. I’ve heard good things so perhaps I’ll try again one day.

[Honeybee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book at a thrift store and was intrigued by both the title and the description. I have a prophetic bent myself, and the notion of someone taking the Gospel on the road in a Harley (as the cover suggested) was even more of a draw. Also, my kids always liked this author's historical novels for middle-schoolers, so I wanted to see what her books for adults might be like. I was in no way disappointed, but was totally unprepared for what the book was actually about!

The Reluctant Prophet is told from the point of view of Allison Chamberlain--a poor little rich girl who turned her back on her family's wealth and influence and wandered from job to job until her nanny introduced her to Jesus. At a church service one Sunday morning, Ally felt the Holy Spirit "nudge" her to get a motorcycle. She thought the idea was crazy, but she wanted to be obedient to the Lord, so she went to a local Harley Davidson dealership and found a motorcycle that "felt" like it was hers.

Knowing nothing about motor bikes, she was enrolled in a class--which Ally spectacularly flunked. Nevertheless, God and the dealership sent her the perfect tutor to get Allison confidently riding her motorcycle. Through this woman, a former military chaplain, Ally is not only discipled and encouraged in her new life of radical obedience, but she meets a whole new community of friends, as well. This is good, since her old friends from church drop her like a hot potato when Ally starts confronting them regarding their comfortable religion.

Through these new friends, Ally meets Geneveve, a down-and-out whisp of a woman who is strung out on drugs and living as prostitute. When Gen's father passes away, Ally follows yet another "nudge" and takes the young woman into her home and helps her get off the drugs. Geneveve's son is a tremendous handful, but he starts to grow on Ally and her on him, as the Lord helps her to become the mom Desmond never had.

Ally's walk of obedience costs her her job, gets her into trouble with her neighbors and the law, and nearly costs her life. She loses and gains friends, then regains those her prophetic messages initially alienated. Once single and aimless, Ally gains a family and a purpose. She learns to stand up for what's right and trust God and others. As her story unfolds, you'll find yourself laughing and crying along with Ms. Chamberlain and her friends.

If you enjoy a good novel with romance, suspense, danger, conflict and kindness, this one has it all. The message of the Gospel is shown through the actions of the characters, as well as the conversations. You'll learn that God really is no respecter of persons and that He desires a relationship with the unloved and unlovely, just as surely as the "nice, normal folks." And He challenges all of us to go outside our comfort zones to make a difference in the lives of those who need Him most.

Although this book is the first in a trilogy, it stands solidly on its own. Nevertheless, I can't wait to read what happens in Rue's next book in this series!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nudges from God push a rebellious Southern belle out of her routines of Christian faith into a whirlwind of choices she’d never dreamed of pursuing.

Born to exclusive wealth, Allison Chamberlain had thrown it all away in disgust, only to find it haunting her steps as she returned to her hometown and found Jesus. After seven years, she is seeking to do more than attend church activities; she is desperate to actually walk out vibrant faith.

Psalm 32:8 offers a promise to those who want to believe Jesus when He declared that His sheep hear His voice: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Having had the Lord interrupt my agendas with His own, I found this book refreshing and challenging, for Nancy Rue, a motorcycle-riding woman herself, takes her character on a surprise journey, beginning with the call to buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

After Allison finally gets her driver’s license for the bike, she breaks through her fears and doubts. “I fired her up—that sleek, Hot Sunglo machine. And for the first time since I sat on her in the showroom, she seemed one with me again—her and her shine and her chrome and her eighty-one-point-three cubic inches of engine.
“I belonged with her—and I was going wherever she took me. Even if it killed me.”

This book is an adventure. I have read it several times over the past three years, and I enjoy it more each time. Nancy Rue addresses crime—both the dark side of prostitution, drugs and addiction—and the bright side of unrighteous corporate powerplays, all in the sweet Southern town of St. Augustine, Florida. She looks at the role of Christianity in modern cities, challenging us to check to see if we really do want to hear God’s voice—for He may call us to do something we’d be horrified to hear!

[Amy J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book delivers a powerful message with unforgettable characters. The writing is brave, too, especially when it exposes the reader to the subtle failures of Allison’s church and the judgy churchgoers— it seems so real, like it could be so many of our own churches, you know? The story certainly had me self-reflect on my own faith journey without it being preachy (what would I do?). The whole Harley backstory was fascinating to me, too. I’ve never rode on or driven a motorcycle, and honestly i’m too scared to but it was so interesting to learn about Allison’s bike journey … it was the way to tap into that dark world and into that boy’s heart. I can’t wait to continue the series. I was grateful to hear the Sacrament House was inspired on a real ministry, Magdalene in Nashville, too. I wanted more in the book’s notes at the end. I’m curious what its success rate is: How many people have they saved? How many prostitutes / drug addicts have (re)claimed their lives for Christ through this ministry’s help? Even if it was just a handful, I truly believe it’s a worthy cause.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the risk of sounding cliche, especially given the cover . . . what a ride!
I really liked how the author used the characters to tell the story of what it truly means to choose Christ . . . to live like He lived. We are not called to live comfortable, 'cushy' lives, but are called to visit and administer to the wants of those in need, no matter what that 'need' looks like.
Another theme I really appreciated was the idea of Allison being Nudged by God to do certain things. I have definitely felt that Divine Nudge in my own life, and have been blessed when I've done as instructed.
4.5 stars

[Jean Singleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book absolutely riveting. I loved the main character and her transformation from
a church pew sitter to a passionate Harley rider out for justice for the poor and downtrodden prostitutes in St. Augustine. She had to go against everyone in her church, small group and neighbors
to fulfill the Nudge from God. I admired her courage as she confronted old demons and new ones to save the women and boy she came to love. All her characters were so accurately portrayed I could almost visualize them.
I highly, highly recommend this book.

[Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would say this is a Christian book, but it's more a Harsh-but-Hopeful Valid-Critique-of-Christians book.

A safe little discontented Christian in her safe little exclusive church feels called by God to buy a Harley Davidson (not her style AT ALL). Confused, she obeys — and it opens her world to complex, gritty, painful relationship with homeless people, drug addicts, and prostitutes — you know, the folks ACTUAL Jesus ACTUALLY hung out with and loves.

Love: I love her money troubles.
I love that these issues are waaaaaay too big for her to handle alone, so she has to get involved with Addict's Anonymous, look at root causes, etc.

Nitpick: “Water first or you’ll puke your guts.” She said to her horse, but horses can’t puke — and their inability to puke kills them regularly.