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Windy City Neighbors #1
Grounded
Grace's fiance bothered by her outspoken stance on purity and her near-constant travel, has broken off their relationship. Exhausted and unwilling to continue her current tour, she books a flight home. Traumatic events result in a paralyzing fear of flying. Stuck at home due to a major snowstorm, Grace begins, for the first time, to connect with the residents of Beecham Street. Will she recover her faith and overcome her fears, or will she give up her career? Grounded is an uplifting, contemporary tale in an urban setting featuring characters courageously wrestling with the real spiritual and practical issues of average people.
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 7, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
May 8, 2013
Grounded, started slow, and I wasn't an immediate fan of Grace Meredith. But true to Neta Jackson's style, Grace is flawed like us all, and once you begin to confess your sins and trust in God's holy word you grow spiritually.
There were times in the book when I felt lost and confused--why didn't she know any of her neighbors?, where were her friends? how was there no one else in her life? These things troubled my spirit. She's an artist, but she seems to have a sense of entitlement, and that too troubled me.
The days that she was snowed-in with Jeff hooked me! And I was delighted when Estelle and Harry Bentley moved in. And thankfully, Estelle drew her out. Estelle pushed her to confront her past and started her on a path to restoration of faith and spiritual growth.
Just as I have enjoyed the Yada Yada Prayer Group, Souled Out and House of Hope series, I expect to fully embrace the Windy City Neighbors series. I already feel that Grace, Jeff, Sam and the Jaspers are new friends. I am anxiously awaiting Derailed, as I love, love Harry Bentley!
There were times in the book when I felt lost and confused--why didn't she know any of her neighbors?, where were her friends? how was there no one else in her life? These things troubled my spirit. She's an artist, but she seems to have a sense of entitlement, and that too troubled me.
The days that she was snowed-in with Jeff hooked me! And I was delighted when Estelle and Harry Bentley moved in. And thankfully, Estelle drew her out. Estelle pushed her to confront her past and started her on a path to restoration of faith and spiritual growth.
Just as I have enjoyed the Yada Yada Prayer Group, Souled Out and House of Hope series, I expect to fully embrace the Windy City Neighbors series. I already feel that Grace, Jeff, Sam and the Jaspers are new friends. I am anxiously awaiting Derailed, as I love, love Harry Bentley!
April 30, 2013
Review originally posted at The Book Babe.
Grace Meredith's life couldn't get better. She has a successful career as a Christian pop star, she's engaged to a great man who makes her feel "worth the wait", and she's on tour doing what she loves- sharing her purity message. Grace has always been a good Christian girl and she loves to share messages about abstinence with the teens and young adults who come to her concerts. However, things don't always go as planned and life can get complicated really fast...
Grounded is a cute Christian fiction book that I would place in the chick-lit genre. It's a light read with a dash of serious issues and heavy topics. Throughout the book the authors handle the heavy stuff (which I won't mention here because of spoilers) with kindness and sensitivity. The overall theme of the book itself is grace.
I enjoyed reading Grounded and I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. I think my biggest issue, which caused the book to lose a star, is that I did not care for the main character, Grace. I think it's just a personal thing, other readers may actually really identify with her. But, she was just not my kind of person. I found her very needy, whiny, co-dependent, selfish, and entitled. For example, I know she's a star in the Christian music world- but, really who in the world takes a limo to the Amtrak station?! It's a passenger train, not a yacht. The selfishness and "me, me, me" attitude were endless. There was an instance in the book where Grace shared with her assistant, Sam, a very important event that happened when Grace was a teenager. She had been working up to finally share what happened and when she was done Sam was very moved by her story. So, Sam asks to share something heavy that happened to her and Grace says something along the lines of, "not now Sam, maybe another time." I wanted to slap her. Things like that were constantly happening, it's as if she never learned any manners or social skills.
There were only two other minor annoyances I had with the book. One was that Grace was not believable as a 29-year-old. I'm 26 and up until the authors state how old she is (about 12% into the book) I thought she was in her late 30s to mid 40s. I couldn't believe I was reading about someone only three years older than myself. She just had a crankiness about her and stuffiness that just didn't seem to fit someone not yet 30. It was just a vibe I got from her moods that she was much older. It really threw me off because her fans were teenagers and Grace's ministry is all about abstinence and staying pure until marriage, which didn't seem to fit a middle-aged woman. Then, her fiance's name is Roger. So, I was definitely thinking they were in their 40s because a name like "Roger" is a big context clue (to me at least) that someone is over 40. Without any description the automatic image in my head is not of a man who is only 32. The only other thing was there seemed to be a lot of product placement. The book was almost like a big advertisement for Curves and Amtrak.
There also seemed to be an awkward fascination with Grace's breasts and the authors always let the reader know when she undressed. Grace is a character who has had a negative sexual experience and to see lines like, "she was sweating between her breasts" just seemed highly inappropriate and I felt like by reading that I was violating her myself. It was a little creepy that the authors even came up with something like that. It definitely could have been left out.
Despite it's minor flaws, I would recommend Grounded to readers who are interested in contemporary Christian stories and/or chick-lit. If you enjoy books that deal with heavy topics, but not in a way burdensome to the reader this is also a great book for you. Anyone interested in the topic of forgiveness and God's grace will enjoy this one, as well.
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book courtesy of Worthy Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Grace Meredith's life couldn't get better. She has a successful career as a Christian pop star, she's engaged to a great man who makes her feel "worth the wait", and she's on tour doing what she loves- sharing her purity message. Grace has always been a good Christian girl and she loves to share messages about abstinence with the teens and young adults who come to her concerts. However, things don't always go as planned and life can get complicated really fast...
Grounded is a cute Christian fiction book that I would place in the chick-lit genre. It's a light read with a dash of serious issues and heavy topics. Throughout the book the authors handle the heavy stuff (which I won't mention here because of spoilers) with kindness and sensitivity. The overall theme of the book itself is grace.
I enjoyed reading Grounded and I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. I think my biggest issue, which caused the book to lose a star, is that I did not care for the main character, Grace. I think it's just a personal thing, other readers may actually really identify with her. But, she was just not my kind of person. I found her very needy, whiny, co-dependent, selfish, and entitled. For example, I know she's a star in the Christian music world- but, really who in the world takes a limo to the Amtrak station?! It's a passenger train, not a yacht. The selfishness and "me, me, me" attitude were endless. There was an instance in the book where Grace shared with her assistant, Sam, a very important event that happened when Grace was a teenager. She had been working up to finally share what happened and when she was done Sam was very moved by her story. So, Sam asks to share something heavy that happened to her and Grace says something along the lines of, "not now Sam, maybe another time." I wanted to slap her. Things like that were constantly happening, it's as if she never learned any manners or social skills.
There were only two other minor annoyances I had with the book. One was that Grace was not believable as a 29-year-old. I'm 26 and up until the authors state how old she is (about 12% into the book) I thought she was in her late 30s to mid 40s. I couldn't believe I was reading about someone only three years older than myself. She just had a crankiness about her and stuffiness that just didn't seem to fit someone not yet 30. It was just a vibe I got from her moods that she was much older. It really threw me off because her fans were teenagers and Grace's ministry is all about abstinence and staying pure until marriage, which didn't seem to fit a middle-aged woman. Then, her fiance's name is Roger. So, I was definitely thinking they were in their 40s because a name like "Roger" is a big context clue (to me at least) that someone is over 40. Without any description the automatic image in my head is not of a man who is only 32. The only other thing was there seemed to be a lot of product placement. The book was almost like a big advertisement for Curves and Amtrak.
There also seemed to be an awkward fascination with Grace's breasts and the authors always let the reader know when she undressed. Grace is a character who has had a negative sexual experience and to see lines like, "she was sweating between her breasts" just seemed highly inappropriate and I felt like by reading that I was violating her myself. It was a little creepy that the authors even came up with something like that. It definitely could have been left out.
Despite it's minor flaws, I would recommend Grounded to readers who are interested in contemporary Christian stories and/or chick-lit. If you enjoy books that deal with heavy topics, but not in a way burdensome to the reader this is also a great book for you. Anyone interested in the topic of forgiveness and God's grace will enjoy this one, as well.
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book courtesy of Worthy Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2013
Grounded started out a little bit slow to me. When Grace gets stuck at home in the snow without anyone to talk to (in part because she can't!), I wanted her to get out and meet some of the Jacksons' cast of characters we all love so much. I was so happy when the Bentleys moved in across the street!
I was ready for Grace's to confess her secret that's weighing her down to someone, anyone. Maybe just because I am impatient!
While Grounded does have all the trademark Jackson elements I love {characters that feel like friends of our own, the familiar setting of Chicago (one of my favorite vacation destinations, so I feel I know all the places they are talking about), and praying through a spiritual struggle}, I also like the bit of romance thrown in. The romance element, at least the way it is done this time around, is different than any of the previous books or series.
Grace is so much more likeable than Kat in the Souled Out Sisters series, that really think I'm going to love this new series even more than Neta's last. I'm excited to read the next installment to find out what happens with Grace and the rest of the neighborhood next.
I was ready for Grace's to confess her secret that's weighing her down to someone, anyone. Maybe just because I am impatient!
While Grounded does have all the trademark Jackson elements I love {characters that feel like friends of our own, the familiar setting of Chicago (one of my favorite vacation destinations, so I feel I know all the places they are talking about), and praying through a spiritual struggle}, I also like the bit of romance thrown in. The romance element, at least the way it is done this time around, is different than any of the previous books or series.
Grace is so much more likeable than Kat in the Souled Out Sisters series, that really think I'm going to love this new series even more than Neta's last. I'm excited to read the next installment to find out what happens with Grace and the rest of the neighborhood next.
July 4, 2013
Grace Meredith has been touring the country sharing her message of purity and that her fans are worth the wait as part of her contemporary Christian music tour entitled New Year, New You. She feels the passion of God speaking to her heart and finds literally after every concert at her Meet and Greet sessions that talking with young people about their decision to remain pure until marriage is something God's called her to do. She's even telling them that she is waiting in her own engagement to Roger for them to be married first because it's worth the wait. It's a message that has made her a role model for her young fans.
Only thing is, Roger calls Grace during her tour to drop the ultimate bombshell on her, that he can no longer wait for her. He can't deal with her busy concert tours and not being home. He's hoping to find someone a bit more rooted in town that he can begin a family and marriage with and hopes that they can still remain friends. Now how can Grace appear before the many fans sharing a message of being worth the wait when her own fiancè won't wait for her?
As Grace struggles with coming to terms with her upcoming tours, she finds herself at a loss for words quite literally. Seems she has picked up more than a sore throat that threatens her upcoming concert dates. When she tries to contact her agent, she's informed that she has been assigned a new one, Jeff Newman. Jeff wants to meet with Grace as soon as possible to see what the direction might be for her concert series and if she wants to remain with the New Year, New You theme.
Just when Grace finds herself home alone in Chicago with nothing more than her cat, Oreo as her companion, she wonders about the neighbors who live on her street. After all the time shes spent living her, she hasn't had the time to meet a single one. But all that is about to change with a snow storm is destined for Chicago and with it a chance to see things she had never noticed before until she finds herself Grounded!
I received Grounded by authors Neta and Dave Jackson compliments of Worthy Publishing and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for a favorable one and literally fell in love the message of redemption and grace that permeates throughout this entire novel. I can so relate to Grace's character because I have found myself in the same shoes almost as Grace and the message is one that readers can relate to. That no matter what has happened in your life, you can be forgiven. Don't let the enemy try to wear you down telling you that you will never be worthy enough for heaven and that no matter how hard you try it will never be enough. This is a great novel that defines God's grace for what it really is meant to be. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to read the next one in the Windy City Neighborhood series in the Fall of this year. My favorite character next to Grace would definitely be Estelle! Oh how I would LOVE to have a neighbor like her.
Only thing is, Roger calls Grace during her tour to drop the ultimate bombshell on her, that he can no longer wait for her. He can't deal with her busy concert tours and not being home. He's hoping to find someone a bit more rooted in town that he can begin a family and marriage with and hopes that they can still remain friends. Now how can Grace appear before the many fans sharing a message of being worth the wait when her own fiancè won't wait for her?
As Grace struggles with coming to terms with her upcoming tours, she finds herself at a loss for words quite literally. Seems she has picked up more than a sore throat that threatens her upcoming concert dates. When she tries to contact her agent, she's informed that she has been assigned a new one, Jeff Newman. Jeff wants to meet with Grace as soon as possible to see what the direction might be for her concert series and if she wants to remain with the New Year, New You theme.
Just when Grace finds herself home alone in Chicago with nothing more than her cat, Oreo as her companion, she wonders about the neighbors who live on her street. After all the time shes spent living her, she hasn't had the time to meet a single one. But all that is about to change with a snow storm is destined for Chicago and with it a chance to see things she had never noticed before until she finds herself Grounded!
I received Grounded by authors Neta and Dave Jackson compliments of Worthy Publishing and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for a favorable one and literally fell in love the message of redemption and grace that permeates throughout this entire novel. I can so relate to Grace's character because I have found myself in the same shoes almost as Grace and the message is one that readers can relate to. That no matter what has happened in your life, you can be forgiven. Don't let the enemy try to wear you down telling you that you will never be worthy enough for heaven and that no matter how hard you try it will never be enough. This is a great novel that defines God's grace for what it really is meant to be. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to read the next one in the Windy City Neighborhood series in the Fall of this year. My favorite character next to Grace would definitely be Estelle! Oh how I would LOVE to have a neighbor like her.
July 8, 2013
Grounded is Book one in The Windy City Neighbors series and thank goodness there are more to come! When I finished it there were so many unanswered questions and I’m already eagerly anticipating book two!
I am so impressed that Neta and Dave Jackson as a husband and wife writing team could collaborate so cohesively together on a book! My husband and I can’t agree on what’s for dinner so I can’t imagine what it would take to put together as wonderful a book as this.
Grace Meredith is a Christian recording artist so most would probably assume she leads the perfect life and from outward appearances; she does. But as is true with most people, things aren’t always what they appear to be.
Struggling with a past she can’t forgive herself for, she throws herself into her work and seeks redemption by preaching a message of purity and why we are worth the wait. As she learns over the years, there is no redemption through works but only by God’s grace and accepting his gift of forgiveness can we really move forward in life.
Grace’s life is complicated by a broken engagement, a handsome agent who truly seems to have Grace’s best interest at heart and the solitary lifestyle she has inflicted upon herself. Behind the closed doors of her Chicago home Grace hides; literally and figuratively.
I adored Grace’s character and could relate to her inability to let go of the past and forgive herself. No matter how many times we hear it at church or read it in the Bible, accepting God’s grace and mercy is more difficult than it seems. I appreciated the way the Jackson’s made her a real human being and didn’t glorify her as a recording artist. I think the world places stars on a pedastal and makes them appear above the pain the rest of us mere mortals feel. Grace was a real person, not just an icon.
Grounded had me hooked from page one and so sad when it ended. I can’t wait to find the answers to the cliffhangers in book two in the Windy City Neighbors series.
I am so impressed that Neta and Dave Jackson as a husband and wife writing team could collaborate so cohesively together on a book! My husband and I can’t agree on what’s for dinner so I can’t imagine what it would take to put together as wonderful a book as this.
Grace Meredith is a Christian recording artist so most would probably assume she leads the perfect life and from outward appearances; she does. But as is true with most people, things aren’t always what they appear to be.
Struggling with a past she can’t forgive herself for, she throws herself into her work and seeks redemption by preaching a message of purity and why we are worth the wait. As she learns over the years, there is no redemption through works but only by God’s grace and accepting his gift of forgiveness can we really move forward in life.
Grace’s life is complicated by a broken engagement, a handsome agent who truly seems to have Grace’s best interest at heart and the solitary lifestyle she has inflicted upon herself. Behind the closed doors of her Chicago home Grace hides; literally and figuratively.
I adored Grace’s character and could relate to her inability to let go of the past and forgive herself. No matter how many times we hear it at church or read it in the Bible, accepting God’s grace and mercy is more difficult than it seems. I appreciated the way the Jackson’s made her a real human being and didn’t glorify her as a recording artist. I think the world places stars on a pedastal and makes them appear above the pain the rest of us mere mortals feel. Grace was a real person, not just an icon.
Grounded had me hooked from page one and so sad when it ended. I can’t wait to find the answers to the cliffhangers in book two in the Windy City Neighbors series.
August 11, 2013
I won this in a FreeReads giveaway here on Goodreads. It sounded like a good story, so I entered. The story is good. A singer on the cusp of making it big on the Christian music scene but realizing she needs more in her life than just her music is an interesting enough premise for the story. It made me keep reading. That and I wanted to make sure she didn't end up going back to the idiot fiance who dumped her and tried to get her back. If she had, I was throwing the book away.
The reason a good, interesting enough story doesn't get more than two stars from me is this...
Grace, the main character, is white and Christian. That much is clear, even if her race is only mentioned once. As a reader, though, I felt beat over the head with the races and nationalities of everyone else in the book. The Bentleys, the Jaspers, Sam... never were they mentioned without having "brown skin," "brown eyes," "kinky hair", of just plain "African-American." It's not offensive as much as it is annoying that I was constantly told that they were a minority, that a Muslim family lived across the street (although Grace never talks to them), or when Jeff described a man as Jewish by twirling his finger at his temple because he apparently didn't know the term for side curls.
That all goes with one of the underlying themes of the book (the biggest being "I'm worth the wait" and abstinence) wherein Grace seems to be on a quest to broaden her horizons and decides that collecting friends of different races and, almost but not quite, religions.
It's... superficial and it could have been so much more.
This book isn't for me, I don't think. I'm not the target audience. I'm an agnostic if I have to define myself, and I'd rather not, and I don't care who has sex with who or when they do it. I'm sure this book is perfect for the target audience, it's just not for me.
The reason a good, interesting enough story doesn't get more than two stars from me is this...
Grace, the main character, is white and Christian. That much is clear, even if her race is only mentioned once. As a reader, though, I felt beat over the head with the races and nationalities of everyone else in the book. The Bentleys, the Jaspers, Sam... never were they mentioned without having "brown skin," "brown eyes," "kinky hair", of just plain "African-American." It's not offensive as much as it is annoying that I was constantly told that they were a minority, that a Muslim family lived across the street (although Grace never talks to them), or when Jeff described a man as Jewish by twirling his finger at his temple because he apparently didn't know the term for side curls.
That all goes with one of the underlying themes of the book (the biggest being "I'm worth the wait" and abstinence) wherein Grace seems to be on a quest to broaden her horizons and decides that collecting friends of different races and, almost but not quite, religions.
It's... superficial and it could have been so much more.
This book isn't for me, I don't think. I'm not the target audience. I'm an agnostic if I have to define myself, and I'd rather not, and I don't care who has sex with who or when they do it. I'm sure this book is perfect for the target audience, it's just not for me.
June 4, 2013
I got hooked on Neta Jackson's books when I read Yada Yada Prayer Group. The diverse cast of characters became my friends and I couldn't wait to catch up with them in the next book, and the next, and the next...Then it seemed that that series had run its course. If I wanted more Neta Jackson I would have to venture out to her spin-off series. Reluctant to leave my old friends, I wasn't willing to leave Neta Jackson. So I went on to the next series. And what a pleasant surprise! I made new friends, but some of my old favorite Yada Yada friends were included, even if only in "cameo" appearances.
Grounded, the first in the new Windy City Neighbors series, is very different. Main character Grace Meredith is a Christian music artist. Younger than many of my other Jackson friends, Grace is truly the main character. The story revolves almost completely around her and her desire to spread a message through her singing. But she has a secret that is hidden deep in her past and actually prevents her from being honest with herself and with those around her. It takes her new neighbor....get this....Estelle Bentley (hey! I remember her!) to help her to willingly accept God's grace.
Jackson and her husband write flawless books together. I cannot tell which of the duo is responsible for any of the events, dialogue, or character traits. What I love most about any of the books, written together or separately, is that this Christian Fiction/Inspirational team presents characters from all walks of life and present their struggles and flaws in an accepting way that reminds you that we are all struggling and flawed and that we are still worthy of God's love. I always feel enlightened and hopeful after reading a Jackson book.
Grounded, the first in the new Windy City Neighbors series, is very different. Main character Grace Meredith is a Christian music artist. Younger than many of my other Jackson friends, Grace is truly the main character. The story revolves almost completely around her and her desire to spread a message through her singing. But she has a secret that is hidden deep in her past and actually prevents her from being honest with herself and with those around her. It takes her new neighbor....get this....Estelle Bentley (hey! I remember her!) to help her to willingly accept God's grace.
Jackson and her husband write flawless books together. I cannot tell which of the duo is responsible for any of the events, dialogue, or character traits. What I love most about any of the books, written together or separately, is that this Christian Fiction/Inspirational team presents characters from all walks of life and present their struggles and flaws in an accepting way that reminds you that we are all struggling and flawed and that we are still worthy of God's love. I always feel enlightened and hopeful after reading a Jackson book.
April 8, 2017
Rating: 4.5
The first in the Windy City Neighbors series, Grounded is an uplifting, contemporary story about ordinary people wrestling with the spiritual and practical issues of real life. The series employees the innovative storytelling technique of “parallel novels,” each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters’ lives become intertwined and affect one another. Grounded welcomes you to Beecham Street—a typical, isolated American neighborhood that might just be a place of hope.
I absolutely loved the Yada Yada series; and once again, Neta & Dave Jackson have given us another series that looks to have as much potential as their much loved Yada Yada series. This story focuses on Grace Meredith a contemporary Christian singer who is being haunted by a past decision that she has kept hidden for a long time. A new neighbor moves in to Beecham Street. It is the much beloved Estelle Bentley from the Yada Yada series. With her strong faith and outgoing personality, Estelle makes friends with her neighbor, Grace, and helps Grace see that her name is a reminder of what God has done for her no matter her mistakes. With a fantastic faith thread that winds through Grace's musical life as well as her personal life, I recommend this book to anyone who fell in love with the Yada Yada series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Grace means there is nothing we can do to make God love us more---and grace also means there is nothing we can do to make God love us less."
"...mercy is not getting what we deserve, and grace is getting what we don't deserve."
The first in the Windy City Neighbors series, Grounded is an uplifting, contemporary story about ordinary people wrestling with the spiritual and practical issues of real life. The series employees the innovative storytelling technique of “parallel novels,” each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters’ lives become intertwined and affect one another. Grounded welcomes you to Beecham Street—a typical, isolated American neighborhood that might just be a place of hope.
I absolutely loved the Yada Yada series; and once again, Neta & Dave Jackson have given us another series that looks to have as much potential as their much loved Yada Yada series. This story focuses on Grace Meredith a contemporary Christian singer who is being haunted by a past decision that she has kept hidden for a long time. A new neighbor moves in to Beecham Street. It is the much beloved Estelle Bentley from the Yada Yada series. With her strong faith and outgoing personality, Estelle makes friends with her neighbor, Grace, and helps Grace see that her name is a reminder of what God has done for her no matter her mistakes. With a fantastic faith thread that winds through Grace's musical life as well as her personal life, I recommend this book to anyone who fell in love with the Yada Yada series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Grace means there is nothing we can do to make God love us more---and grace also means there is nothing we can do to make God love us less."
"...mercy is not getting what we deserve, and grace is getting what we don't deserve."
August 3, 2013
I was very excited to win this book as an advanced reader copy and autographed besides. I have mixed feelings about the book because i liked the book very much. But then the book stopped! I got to the end and felt like the book just stopped rather than ended. It has so many unfinished plots going on that I was very disappointed. Further, two new characters were introduced near the end of the book and to learn more about them I would have to read a parallel book. I like a book to have a beginning, a middle, and an ending. This book had a good beginning and middle and then ended with the need to find the next book in the series to find out what really happened.
The book was predictable. I knew as soon as her agent was introduced what was going to happen there and I was right. I knew almost immediately why the sexual message was in the book even though it wasn't confirmed until later in the book. I am pretty sure i know Ramona's problem without reading the parallel book. I still don't know why they pulled a racial theme into the book with the Bentleys. I didn't see that making a big deal over the fact they were black was necessary. But I liked the book. I liked that Roger was a jerk on so many levels and that Grace figured it out even though it took a long time. I liked the music elements. I liked the issue of gospel message because it was not overdone or sappy.
But I was very disappointed that the book did not have a "satisfactory" ending.
The book was predictable. I knew as soon as her agent was introduced what was going to happen there and I was right. I knew almost immediately why the sexual message was in the book even though it wasn't confirmed until later in the book. I am pretty sure i know Ramona's problem without reading the parallel book. I still don't know why they pulled a racial theme into the book with the Bentleys. I didn't see that making a big deal over the fact they were black was necessary. But I liked the book. I liked that Roger was a jerk on so many levels and that Grace figured it out even though it took a long time. I liked the music elements. I liked the issue of gospel message because it was not overdone or sappy.
But I was very disappointed that the book did not have a "satisfactory" ending.
August 12, 2013
I was a goodreads giveaway recipient for this novel.
The premise of the Windy City novels is an interesting notion. Each novel deals with an issue that conflicts or coincides with Christian values that has the reader follow along with the lives of individuals dealing with Christian relevant issues. Grounded is the first of these novels, and the ever-present theme from what I gathered is the issue of sexual relations before marriage. I would have given this book a higher rating, but the character of Grace (the main protagonist) irritated me to no end. I felt like growth and development in one's self was a major part of these stories; While characters like Samantha and Harry intrigued me, Grace never truly developed during the entire story. Her character is selfish, and although certain revelations are made (which gives her character much needed humanity to it), she remains static until the end. Nonetheless, I am grateful that I received this novel, and it has given me some perspective. I also believe this book would be very effective and enjoyable if it was targeted toward a younger audience.
The premise of the Windy City novels is an interesting notion. Each novel deals with an issue that conflicts or coincides with Christian values that has the reader follow along with the lives of individuals dealing with Christian relevant issues. Grounded is the first of these novels, and the ever-present theme from what I gathered is the issue of sexual relations before marriage. I would have given this book a higher rating, but the character of Grace (the main protagonist) irritated me to no end. I felt like growth and development in one's self was a major part of these stories; While characters like Samantha and Harry intrigued me, Grace never truly developed during the entire story. Her character is selfish, and although certain revelations are made (which gives her character much needed humanity to it), she remains static until the end. Nonetheless, I am grateful that I received this novel, and it has given me some perspective. I also believe this book would be very effective and enjoyable if it was targeted toward a younger audience.
August 8, 2013
I thought this book was alright but was looking for a little bit more between Grace and Jeff. I also feel like Grace's reaction to airport security was a bit overdone. I also don't get why everyone is always so nice to Grace when she's pretty much being a brat for the entire book. Then again, we don't get a lot of her back story... this is a difficult time for her and maybe they know her a little better and are cutting her some slack. At the same time the writing hints at a rather selfish personality in the character's history: no friends/girlfriends. Doesn't know her neighbors. Frequently declines well-meaning invitations. Thinks of herself before her assistant/band/fans/neighbors, etc.
However, it was good to read about how the pain of abortion and hidden secrets can affect a person years later.
However, it was good to read about how the pain of abortion and hidden secrets can affect a person years later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2013
This is book 1 in her newest series, "Windy City Neighborhood". I had a hard time at first understanding where the book was going but because I so love Neta Jackson's books I kept on reading. The main character is a Christian Singer named GRACE MEREDITH. At the start of the book she is engaged and on tour with her main message theme on Purity and Worthiness. Many things hit her all at once and she finds herself unsure and unworthy of the message she'd been sharing. Due to overextending her voice she must take a break to rest it....during this time the Lord brings a new family to her neighborhood. She gets a new manager. Through exercise, Prayer, and a new direction little by little things change for the better. Neta Jackson fans are going to LOVE her new neighbors!
July 28, 2013
This is a very spiritually moving story about how the grace of God is freely given to all who ask.
September 22, 2015
Book had a slow start for me. Seemed like more of a romance novel to me at first, but there was good substance toward the end. I will definitely continue the series.
May 22, 2016
Wasn't sure whether to give this 3 stars or 2 simply because, as many have said, I think the main character is selfish and a prima donna. I also thought it odd Grace had no friends (at all! Didn't she grow up in Chicago?? She had to grow up somewhere - where were her friends?) But I actually ended up with 3 stars instead of 2 b/c I think Grace's portrayal as a spoiled brat is well done. It isn't hidden. It's out there. Her flaws are written on almost every page. And though she doesn't grow much, she does grow some. If you are going to feature a self-centered, insecure, somewhat narrow-minded character, Grace is among the more likeable and she really was well done for having such obvious flaws. (I actually laughed when I read she didn't want to share her prayer time with Estella with her other neighbor - who had a true crisis.) That's honesty for you. And I'd bet there aren't many who haven't felt the same. (You who have not sinned cast the first stone. . . .) There were some truly to-the-point, accurate and honest portrayals here, and even if you don't much like who Grace is, I admire the authors for showing the back scenes so plainly. I guess in the end, the transparencies of Grace's flaws made me like her.
On to other topics. On the one hand I liked the ethnic focus because I enjoy living in diverse cities/neighborhoods, but on the other it felt too forced. Multi-mentions, etc, as others have reviewed. Maybe it was trying too hard - as is, currently, all of America. We seem to be twisting ourselves in knots to prove we don't see race and, even if we do, we don't care (which goes to prove we see race). He who doth protest too much . . . Perhaps it represents the extremely awkward attempt at assuring everyone else that we are politically correct by way of becoming all lathered up and forcing to normal that which is, by it's very nature, normal. For me it's a head shaker. Yep, you're Black/Asian/Hispanic/White/whatever, whatever. Aren't you a person first? Yes. So why keep harping (and harping) on the other? I say give it a rest. It is what it is, so by that very fact it is already normal and, of course, natural. It doesn't have to be pushed there.
That said. Having now made ethnicity an issue (as the authors have done by their way of writing,) to be consistent with what they set up, I don't really think Grace would have moved to that house. It was too brave for her (as the only white mentioned in the whole neighborhood). Nowhere else in the whole book does she show such spunk - in fact, she agonizes over being a minority when considering going to an all-black church for a single morning. To my mind, it goes to show how a backward attempt at forcing ethnicity just unnecessarily complicates everything. By showing how politically correct it all is, the authors stepped beyond the scope of their main character. A mixed neighborhood would have fit the storyline - to say, also some other whites. The lack of them (other than the white McMansion, it's own stereotype) left the ethnicity card as the only one on the table. Don't try so hard. Truly, give it a rest.
On to other topics. On the one hand I liked the ethnic focus because I enjoy living in diverse cities/neighborhoods, but on the other it felt too forced. Multi-mentions, etc, as others have reviewed. Maybe it was trying too hard - as is, currently, all of America. We seem to be twisting ourselves in knots to prove we don't see race and, even if we do, we don't care (which goes to prove we see race). He who doth protest too much . . . Perhaps it represents the extremely awkward attempt at assuring everyone else that we are politically correct by way of becoming all lathered up and forcing to normal that which is, by it's very nature, normal. For me it's a head shaker. Yep, you're Black/Asian/Hispanic/White/whatever, whatever. Aren't you a person first? Yes. So why keep harping (and harping) on the other? I say give it a rest. It is what it is, so by that very fact it is already normal and, of course, natural. It doesn't have to be pushed there.
That said. Having now made ethnicity an issue (as the authors have done by their way of writing,) to be consistent with what they set up, I don't really think Grace would have moved to that house. It was too brave for her (as the only white mentioned in the whole neighborhood). Nowhere else in the whole book does she show such spunk - in fact, she agonizes over being a minority when considering going to an all-black church for a single morning. To my mind, it goes to show how a backward attempt at forcing ethnicity just unnecessarily complicates everything. By showing how politically correct it all is, the authors stepped beyond the scope of their main character. A mixed neighborhood would have fit the storyline - to say, also some other whites. The lack of them (other than the white McMansion, it's own stereotype) left the ethnicity card as the only one on the table. Don't try so hard. Truly, give it a rest.
April 11, 2013
Grace Meredith has a successful career singing contemporary Christian music. On tour doing her New Year, New You theme for young people, encouraging them to wait for marriage before involvement in intimacy, Grace encounters life-changing experiences. She had hoped her fiance would join her for her last night on tour, to support her in her singing career and her ministry to young people across the country. What she got instead was a broken engagement and disappointment. Although struggling with a sore throat and grief over her broken engagement, Grace forces herself to fulfill her commitment, only to meet with more trauma upon heading home to Chicago. Grace feels like a fraud, encouraging purity to young people and yet carrying a secret that consumed her. Those secrets from her past weighed heavily upon her during a lengthy recuperation from a virus affecting her throat, and the stress accompanying it.
In this first book of a series called Windy City Neighbors, much is revealed regarding secrets held within, and accepting gifts freely given from relative strangers, and from our heavenly Father. Learning to let go and forgive one's self is a strong theme in this story of finding faith in difficult times. God's gift of forgiveness comes freely, but forgiving ourselves can be far more overwhelming. As Grace is encouraged to "think" about her name, she discovers that grace is a gift that comes with no strings attached. Grace is what brings us through times of trouble and gifts us with freedom from our past sins.
I enjoyed this warmhearted story of discernment, forgiveness not only of others, but forgiveness of self, and learning to accept the gift of grace that is offered freely when our hearts are open to receiving it. In our fast-paced lives we tend to spend less time increasing growth in our faith lives, and the authors of Grounded have presented positive examples of renewing our spiritual lives through time spent in the Word, in prayer and through grace.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Wynn-Wynn Media in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.
In this first book of a series called Windy City Neighbors, much is revealed regarding secrets held within, and accepting gifts freely given from relative strangers, and from our heavenly Father. Learning to let go and forgive one's self is a strong theme in this story of finding faith in difficult times. God's gift of forgiveness comes freely, but forgiving ourselves can be far more overwhelming. As Grace is encouraged to "think" about her name, she discovers that grace is a gift that comes with no strings attached. Grace is what brings us through times of trouble and gifts us with freedom from our past sins.
I enjoyed this warmhearted story of discernment, forgiveness not only of others, but forgiveness of self, and learning to accept the gift of grace that is offered freely when our hearts are open to receiving it. In our fast-paced lives we tend to spend less time increasing growth in our faith lives, and the authors of Grounded have presented positive examples of renewing our spiritual lives through time spent in the Word, in prayer and through grace.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Wynn-Wynn Media in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.
July 7, 2013
I read the first three books in Neta Jackson's Yada Yada Prayer Group series and really enjoyed them so I was excited to jump into this new series.
I was not disappointed. Neta and Dave have laid the perfect "ground" work for a great series.
This series runs parallel stories with the different characters in the neighborhood that Grace (the main character) lives in. What that means is that the other books in the series are stories that are actually happening at the same time as the book you are reading. It was fun to read this book and wonder what was going on with the other characters, but knowing I would eventually find out.
We meet Grace Meredith in the first book and I have to say I have a special connection with her.
She is a singer and her personality is very much like mine. She is quiet off stage but on stage she comes alive, can talk to her audience without a problem. I am the same way, I sing freely and allow God to speak through me as I lead worship but one-on-one I can clam up. Her birthday is in July too, just like me :)
Grace is a combination of myself and one of my characters in my WIP, whose names also happens to be Grace. She has a secret, one she thinks she doesn't deserve forgiveness from. I loved watching her open up to receive God's amazing grace.
This is a wonderful story with a rich cast of characters. Not a fast-paced read but a nice, easy one. I enjoyed my time in the windy city and I am sure you will too.
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange of an honest review.
I was not disappointed. Neta and Dave have laid the perfect "ground" work for a great series.
This series runs parallel stories with the different characters in the neighborhood that Grace (the main character) lives in. What that means is that the other books in the series are stories that are actually happening at the same time as the book you are reading. It was fun to read this book and wonder what was going on with the other characters, but knowing I would eventually find out.
We meet Grace Meredith in the first book and I have to say I have a special connection with her.
She is a singer and her personality is very much like mine. She is quiet off stage but on stage she comes alive, can talk to her audience without a problem. I am the same way, I sing freely and allow God to speak through me as I lead worship but one-on-one I can clam up. Her birthday is in July too, just like me :)
Grace is a combination of myself and one of my characters in my WIP, whose names also happens to be Grace. She has a secret, one she thinks she doesn't deserve forgiveness from. I loved watching her open up to receive God's amazing grace.
This is a wonderful story with a rich cast of characters. Not a fast-paced read but a nice, easy one. I enjoyed my time in the windy city and I am sure you will too.
A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange of an honest review.
June 17, 2016
Ok, not great. It's hard to like the main character, Grace Merideth. She's selfish, entitled, and just kind of annoying.
Other problems I had with the book - Grace's reaction to the event at the airport seemed way overboard. I kept thinking if it was as bad as she made it seem, she should have filed a police report. Or at least a complaint with his supervisor. But to give up flying completely? I don't get it. The author's mentioning of Grace's breasts multiple times seemed odd. Did we need to know she was sweating between her breasts? Did we need to know the dress curved around her breasts? Not relevant and a little inappropriate. There seemed to be a lot of emphasis put on race. (How many times did we need to hear about Sam's "tiny twists" in her hair.) It seemed Grace and her family were the only white people, but she was nervous about going to an African-American church? Every other person in her life is a minority, so why the hesitation? I'm curious why Curves is mentioned so many times. Did they pay to have their name in the book? Sure seemed like it.
And then the book comes to a complete stop and leaves you wondering what happened. So many questions left unanswered. I kept looking for the missing chapters. But I'm not interested enough to read any more in this series.
Not a book I would recommend.
Other problems I had with the book - Grace's reaction to the event at the airport seemed way overboard. I kept thinking if it was as bad as she made it seem, she should have filed a police report. Or at least a complaint with his supervisor. But to give up flying completely? I don't get it. The author's mentioning of Grace's breasts multiple times seemed odd. Did we need to know she was sweating between her breasts? Did we need to know the dress curved around her breasts? Not relevant and a little inappropriate. There seemed to be a lot of emphasis put on race. (How many times did we need to hear about Sam's "tiny twists" in her hair.) It seemed Grace and her family were the only white people, but she was nervous about going to an African-American church? Every other person in her life is a minority, so why the hesitation? I'm curious why Curves is mentioned so many times. Did they pay to have their name in the book? Sure seemed like it.
And then the book comes to a complete stop and leaves you wondering what happened. So many questions left unanswered. I kept looking for the missing chapters. But I'm not interested enough to read any more in this series.
Not a book I would recommend.
August 24, 2013
I received a free copy of Grounded as a Goodreads first reader. Not actually bad but really not my cup of tea. The story was too repetitive, preachy, and extremely slow moving. It just doesn't really go anywhere but hovers or circles for most of the book. When the story finally starts to progress, it is during the last few chapters, creating loose ends to set up the sequel, which I find even more annoying. The main character has the same tired phrases/thoughts/circular logic over and over, to the point of being tedious and tiresome. I actually enjoyed reading the neighbors' dialog much more than any of the main character's inner musings or epiphanies. They could have edited out more than 150 pages and had the same story. I found I was uncomfortable with a common unfortunate trait I have noticed among Christians in general, which is the need to constantly label and classify those who are not WASP, such as Black, Jewish, Hispanic, Catholic, etc. No need to reference the same woman as African-American several times on the same page, once is enough to make the point. I was glad to finish the book as it felt like an assignment.
May 14, 2013
In the beginning (there was God, course), but in the beginning of this book, I ran up with some serious issues. Grace's persona made my head hurt, it seemed she was the only character throughout the first half of the book, I had guessed her safely guarded secret in chapter two (or was it chapter three?). Needless to say, I didn't like it at all. But then, when Grace confessed her dark secret, I didn't feel sorry for her---I UNDERSTOOD her. And then the storyline that "mercy is not getting what you deserve, and grace is getting what you don't deserve". It was beautiful. And then the author threw a little mystery at the end that became a little cliffhanger that's still doing things to my heart. Because of the flat beginning and the weirdness in that beginning, one star is knocked off. However, the message that I thought I was already serious about was intensified in the book God gave me for a brain. So, I shall give it four stars.
February 4, 2015
Solid christian fiction, but the main character development felt a little shallow. Had a bit of trouble connecting with her. Glad to see a return of the Bentley's from Neta Jackson's other series. Honestly felt this was more of a prequel to the new series than a novel worth standing on it's own. Not a bad book, just not super. *shrug*
December 31, 2015
I initially grew very annoyed with the main character, her whiny, whoa is me attitude irritated me enough that I was tempted to put the book down. However, have read many other books by this author I knew there would be a jewel waiting for me and oh how right I was. Slow start but well worth it. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!
September 1, 2013
Love all the Neta Jackson books; especially how they intertwine, yet each has its own story!
June 26, 2021
Oh, how I needed to read this right now! I read the Yada Yada series several years ago. It probably has been my favorite series through the years.
I’ve been needing a pick-me-up: a read that would grab my attention, be difficult to put down, and give me a little encouragement in between wouldn’t be bad. Looking through my TBR list, this one jumped out at me.
The book started a bit slow for me. Grace (the main character) was difficult to fall for at the beginning, but she started to emerge: and in walks a beloved Yada Yada character.
This read was like hanging out with an old friend. (Neta and Dave Jackson have a way to do that with their stories.). This was the first book in a long time that I wanted to read every chance I got: even taking a few hours at once to curl up on the couch and finish the story. (That’s a rare treat for me.)
I’ve been needing a pick-me-up: a read that would grab my attention, be difficult to put down, and give me a little encouragement in between wouldn’t be bad. Looking through my TBR list, this one jumped out at me.
The book started a bit slow for me. Grace (the main character) was difficult to fall for at the beginning, but she started to emerge: and in walks a beloved Yada Yada character.
This read was like hanging out with an old friend. (Neta and Dave Jackson have a way to do that with their stories.). This was the first book in a long time that I wanted to read every chance I got: even taking a few hours at once to curl up on the couch and finish the story. (That’s a rare treat for me.)
Read
May 4, 2022This was boring and flat at the beginning. But it picked up speed and the main character started to whine less.
April 18, 2013
I'm a huge fan of anything Neta Jackson writes, so I was beyond giddy to have the opportunity to review GROUNDED, the first in "The Neighborhood Series". In this novel, we meet Grace, a contemporary Christian singer who is currently on tour encouraging teenagers to respect themselves enough to save sex until marriage. Promotional sales are wildly successful and Grace is on top of the world, giddy in the realization that she will soon marry her fiance, Roger, and enter into a world of marital bliss that she has been seeking for a long time.
Until, that is, the day that Roger ends everything, abruptly -- over the telephone. Although he has always claimed to support Grace in her musical tours and her inspirational messages, he has now concluded that he cannot begin a marriage with someone who is always away from home. While Grace maintains hope that the couple can discuss their issues and resolve their differences, Roger makes it clear that things are truly over between them.
Heartbroken and physically unable to continue her tour, Grace treats to her home in Chicago. Following a traumatic experience with airport security that revived old insecurities from her past, Grace has determined that she will never fly again. Additionally, her agent has dumped her onto Jeff, his assistant, leaving the future of Grace's musical career looking dangerously rocky. Plus, how can Grace promote purity and worth when her own fiance couldn't find it in his heart to wait for her?
Trapped at home, Grace quickly realizes that she has never really taken the opportunity to get to know anyone in the neighborhood. Surprisingly befriended by a new couple next door, Grace is forced to get uncomfortably real with herself and the demons from her past that have resurfaced after recent events. Grace has spent so long atoning her past, desperately seeking a role as a positive influence for others -- but is she ready to take it to a deeper level with the help of a loving new stranger?
As with all of her other words, Jackson has such a magical way of creating lovable multicultural characters who aren't afraid to push beyond the comfortable boundaries to expose the raw truths that are needing to be heard. And for those who have read past series by these authors, you will be excited to recognize that the unfamiliar new neighbors aren't strangers to Yada Yada readers at all!
I think the topics of atonement, forgiveness, and grace were handled sensitively without compromising the underlying message in the least. At first I was a little worried, because the airport scene as well as the constant references of grace to the character Grace felt a little over the top, but Jackson really integrated everything nicely in such a way that felt heartwarming without being overtly cheesy. I should have had more confidence, of course, after reading the Yada Yada prayer books, right?
I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get to learn the details of the robbery at the train station or the back story of the young girl that Grace and Sam encountered on the trip. But, this just gives me more reason to anticipate book two, which promises to delve deeper into the whole train story!
GROUNDED was another solid work from Jackson and I definitely plan on going further in this series.
Until, that is, the day that Roger ends everything, abruptly -- over the telephone. Although he has always claimed to support Grace in her musical tours and her inspirational messages, he has now concluded that he cannot begin a marriage with someone who is always away from home. While Grace maintains hope that the couple can discuss their issues and resolve their differences, Roger makes it clear that things are truly over between them.
Heartbroken and physically unable to continue her tour, Grace treats to her home in Chicago. Following a traumatic experience with airport security that revived old insecurities from her past, Grace has determined that she will never fly again. Additionally, her agent has dumped her onto Jeff, his assistant, leaving the future of Grace's musical career looking dangerously rocky. Plus, how can Grace promote purity and worth when her own fiance couldn't find it in his heart to wait for her?
Trapped at home, Grace quickly realizes that she has never really taken the opportunity to get to know anyone in the neighborhood. Surprisingly befriended by a new couple next door, Grace is forced to get uncomfortably real with herself and the demons from her past that have resurfaced after recent events. Grace has spent so long atoning her past, desperately seeking a role as a positive influence for others -- but is she ready to take it to a deeper level with the help of a loving new stranger?
As with all of her other words, Jackson has such a magical way of creating lovable multicultural characters who aren't afraid to push beyond the comfortable boundaries to expose the raw truths that are needing to be heard. And for those who have read past series by these authors, you will be excited to recognize that the unfamiliar new neighbors aren't strangers to Yada Yada readers at all!
I think the topics of atonement, forgiveness, and grace were handled sensitively without compromising the underlying message in the least. At first I was a little worried, because the airport scene as well as the constant references of grace to the character Grace felt a little over the top, but Jackson really integrated everything nicely in such a way that felt heartwarming without being overtly cheesy. I should have had more confidence, of course, after reading the Yada Yada prayer books, right?
I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get to learn the details of the robbery at the train station or the back story of the young girl that Grace and Sam encountered on the trip. But, this just gives me more reason to anticipate book two, which promises to delve deeper into the whole train story!
GROUNDED was another solid work from Jackson and I definitely plan on going further in this series.
October 7, 2015
This book is about Grace Meredith, a well-known Christian artist who is almost finished with her New year, New you tour. On the night before her very last show her fiancé, Roger, called Grace and told her he wanted to call of the engagement. Now in utter shock at her fiancés; now ex’s, sudden decision, she’s moved back to her small bungalow in Chicago. Soon after her homecoming, she becomes sick, and she soon discovers that she has laryngitis. After seeing the doctor, she’s required to have a month of vocal rest and has to see a voice coach. After telling her agent, Jeff Newman, they had to cancel some shows and were trying to figure things out, a massive snow storm hits. Not only is Grace stuck at the house, but so is Jeff! Grace soon finds out what it’s like to have friends (never really had too many before) from all the people in her neighborhood and she relearn that she IS worth it!
I think that anybody who feels like the world hates them sometimes would enjoy this book. Grace has to go through a lot in such a short time. I mean think about it; she was on tour for weeks, her fiancé called off the engagement, she got a completely new agent, and worst of all….. her voice is pretty much gone because of her laryngitis. It seems like the world, and God, are out for her. Even though all this is thrown at her, she still makes it through. I know for a fact we’ve all felt that way. We’ve all had one of those days where nothing goes your way and you just sit there and think “what did I do to deserve this?” This book has that written all over it (literally). It’s one of those books that you want to read while curled up in your favorite blanket while drinking hot chocolate sitting in front of a roaring fireplace.
I really liked this book, but not at first. It started off really slow. Which is not good for me, I get bored really easily and get sidetracked like you wouldn’t believe. But as you read on it gets so much better, you get bombarded with her personal thoughts; which I like in a book, makes me feel closer to the character. I think feeling close with the characters is everything in a book. In my opinion; if you’re going to witness somebody’s life (either real or fake) you have to have some type of connection with the characters. If you don’t It’s almost like you’re stalking them. Really the only complaint I have (which I’ve mentioned before) is that it started off pretty slow, but that quickly changed as the story goes on.
I think that anybody who feels like the world hates them sometimes would enjoy this book. Grace has to go through a lot in such a short time. I mean think about it; she was on tour for weeks, her fiancé called off the engagement, she got a completely new agent, and worst of all….. her voice is pretty much gone because of her laryngitis. It seems like the world, and God, are out for her. Even though all this is thrown at her, she still makes it through. I know for a fact we’ve all felt that way. We’ve all had one of those days where nothing goes your way and you just sit there and think “what did I do to deserve this?” This book has that written all over it (literally). It’s one of those books that you want to read while curled up in your favorite blanket while drinking hot chocolate sitting in front of a roaring fireplace.
I really liked this book, but not at first. It started off really slow. Which is not good for me, I get bored really easily and get sidetracked like you wouldn’t believe. But as you read on it gets so much better, you get bombarded with her personal thoughts; which I like in a book, makes me feel closer to the character. I think feeling close with the characters is everything in a book. In my opinion; if you’re going to witness somebody’s life (either real or fake) you have to have some type of connection with the characters. If you don’t It’s almost like you’re stalking them. Really the only complaint I have (which I’ve mentioned before) is that it started off pretty slow, but that quickly changed as the story goes on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2014
My children really enjoyed reading the Trailblazer books when they were younger. When I saw book 2 (reading that one now) of this series on the new books shelf at the library and saw the authors I just had to look up book one and read them both. Now, I am a pretty good and pretty fast reader, but I can tell how well I like a book, most times, by how long it takes to read it. I read this book in LESS than 24 hours. I started it Monday evening. I could not put it down and read until 1am. First thing the next morning I picked it up. I could not wait to read more. I finished it early Tuesday afternoon. I had to MAKE myself NOT start the next book. I had chores to do at home... but it was really HARD to do. I so wanted to just JUMP into book 2. If I could I would give this book 6 stars.
I really liked the characters. I really liked the story. I loved the depth of the characters and the struggles. They seemed like real people, not fiction. Real people with real struggles and real sin problems. Struggling with guilt and with what God wants from them.
This book does have a theme that is serious... it concerns abortion. That is why I marked it for Adult Christian Women. It does not go into a lot of detail, but I know it would not be a good book for younger girls. It may be ok for some High School age girls, but I suggest moms read it first and make that determination themselves.
I am interested in the storytelling technique the Jackson's use for this series as well... "'parallel novels' each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters' lives become intertwined and affect one another." (from the back cover). It sounds wonderful, interesting, it draws me in. How are they going to do this??? I can't wait to read more of these and hope the series is not ending with only 2 books.
I really liked the characters. I really liked the story. I loved the depth of the characters and the struggles. They seemed like real people, not fiction. Real people with real struggles and real sin problems. Struggling with guilt and with what God wants from them.
This book does have a theme that is serious... it concerns abortion. That is why I marked it for Adult Christian Women. It does not go into a lot of detail, but I know it would not be a good book for younger girls. It may be ok for some High School age girls, but I suggest moms read it first and make that determination themselves.
I am interested in the storytelling technique the Jackson's use for this series as well... "'parallel novels' each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters' lives become intertwined and affect one another." (from the back cover). It sounds wonderful, interesting, it draws me in. How are they going to do this??? I can't wait to read more of these and hope the series is not ending with only 2 books.
May 3, 2013
Christian music artist, Grace Meredith, is introduced in the Jackson’s first book of the Windy City Neighbors series. With her voice giving out, she struggles to complete her grueling tour schedule focusing on the theme of purity. Her fiancé “dumps” her in hasty phone call and her assistant is called away to a family emergency, leaving Grace to care for the details to wrap up the tour and get home safely to Chicago. She undergoes a degrading security check in the airport that dredges up her buried past. She arrives home sick and exhausted during a major snowstorm and becomes stranded in her little bungalow on Chicago’s north side, which forces her to reach out to her multi-cultured neighbors whom she barely knows.
As she heals and reassesses her career, she becomes more involved with her neighbors. They play a prominent role helping her find the new direction God wants her to take. Due to a large client load, her agent passes her on to a new manager, who also plays a major role in helping her prepare for her upcoming tour and face the changes in her life. When her former fiancé wants to renew their relationship, Grace agrees to seek God’s direction in the matter. As she faces her past and tries to find the right message to focus on in her upcoming tour, God’s plan finally becomes clear to her through her neighbor’s prayers.
This was a challenging and thought provoking book dealing with many contemporary issues, and I can’t wait to read more about the Windy City neighbors.
Reviewed by Suanne Shidler
As she heals and reassesses her career, she becomes more involved with her neighbors. They play a prominent role helping her find the new direction God wants her to take. Due to a large client load, her agent passes her on to a new manager, who also plays a major role in helping her prepare for her upcoming tour and face the changes in her life. When her former fiancé wants to renew their relationship, Grace agrees to seek God’s direction in the matter. As she faces her past and tries to find the right message to focus on in her upcoming tour, God’s plan finally becomes clear to her through her neighbor’s prayers.
This was a challenging and thought provoking book dealing with many contemporary issues, and I can’t wait to read more about the Windy City neighbors.
Reviewed by Suanne Shidler
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