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The Runner
The Runner is the first book in a seven-part series that follows the life of Michael Knight, a young man who is conflicted about his future and who embarks on a long journey of self-discovery. In that sense, Michael is like many of us. I don't think anyone ever just "arrives." We all have to go through things in life in order to learn and grow.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
1 person is currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
A. Wayne Gill
4 books16 followersA. Wayne Gill is the Managing Partner and CEO of the Gill Law Firm. which has offices in Florida and Georgia. throughout the United States. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the South Florida Minority Supplier Development Council (SFMSDC), the Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County, Inc., and the Oasis Compassion Agency, which he co-founded with his wife Sharon, in 2002.
He obtained an English degree from Trinity College in Hartford Connecticut and his law degree from George Washington University in Washington DC. There, among other things, he served as a Law Clerk to the Honorable Arthur L. Burnett, Sr. of the DC Trial Court and in the Office of the Corporation Counsel for the District of Columbia, Civil Division. He is also a graduate of the Advanced Minority Executive Program at the Kellogg School of Business, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.
He is a frequent speaker, moderator and author. In the past, he’s has spoken at or taught legal/business seminars for organizations such as Office Depot, Sprint, Ford Motor Credit Company, The Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County, and the SFMSDC. He’s also published articles and written Continuing Legal Education materials for the National Business Institute. His published books and e-books are available by title on this site.
He represents some of the most well-known companies in the world, including AT&T, Hilton Hotels Corporation, American Express and SunTrust Bank. He is a member of the Florida Bar: Equal Opportunities Committee; American Bar Association: Business Law Section; Commercial Law League Of America; National Bar Association; and is a Founder of the Caribbean Bar Association.
He obtained an English degree from Trinity College in Hartford Connecticut and his law degree from George Washington University in Washington DC. There, among other things, he served as a Law Clerk to the Honorable Arthur L. Burnett, Sr. of the DC Trial Court and in the Office of the Corporation Counsel for the District of Columbia, Civil Division. He is also a graduate of the Advanced Minority Executive Program at the Kellogg School of Business, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.
He is a frequent speaker, moderator and author. In the past, he’s has spoken at or taught legal/business seminars for organizations such as Office Depot, Sprint, Ford Motor Credit Company, The Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County, and the SFMSDC. He’s also published articles and written Continuing Legal Education materials for the National Business Institute. His published books and e-books are available by title on this site.
He represents some of the most well-known companies in the world, including AT&T, Hilton Hotels Corporation, American Express and SunTrust Bank. He is a member of the Florida Bar: Equal Opportunities Committee; American Bar Association: Business Law Section; Commercial Law League Of America; National Bar Association; and is a Founder of the Caribbean Bar Association.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 30, 2013
This book contained an interesting story that was a fairly quick read, and featured multiple main characters. I guess my personal primary problem with it was the editing job – the punctuation was especially bad, with erratic commas, and more often, entirely missing commas, or misplaced quote marks. That makes it harder to read, and definitely harder to enjoy. I did like the clear precise layout of the gospel message. I would read the next book given the opportunity. While this book didn’t make the favorites list for me, it was fairly good for a first book.
**Glass Road Public Relations is doing the blog tour for this book, and sent me a complimentary copy in return for my honest review. I was in no way recompensed for this review, and opinions are my own. I didn't have to post a positive review.**
**Glass Road Public Relations is doing the blog tour for this book, and sent me a complimentary copy in return for my honest review. I was in no way recompensed for this review, and opinions are my own. I didn't have to post a positive review.**
May 9, 2013
What an awesome book!! I have been a long time John Grisham fan & am always on the lookout for an author of similar talent. A. Wayne Gill has the same story telling gift but adds the bonus of including God. The characters are so easy to relate to & the story flows so well. I am hooked & can't wait for book two!!!
November 14, 2013
Did I enjoy this book: I did.
This book consists of three major characters and their stories. First, we have Michael, whom everyone expects to follow in the footsteps of his father and become a Baptist Preacher. But he has other plans. Michael stuns his family and community when he unexpectedly leaves the sleepy small town of Ozark Hills, Missouri to go to law school in the Big Apple. Then we have his bad-boy brother-in-law, Ramon, who lives down to everyone’s expectations when he gets sucked into a life filled with crime and cash working as an international gangster. And finally, we have God, who plays a consistently prominent role in all the character’s lives.
So there you have it: the lawyer, the crook, and the Big Guy himself. As unlikely as it seems, Gill skillfully integrates these three characters and their stories to create an entertaining drama.
So why only four stars? I thought the story lacked character development. There are lots of characters in this story. Many ranged from unbelievable to annoying. The small, overly religious setting and its cast had me expecting Kevin Bacon to jump off the page and start performing dance routines from the 1984 movie Footloose. No kidding. I couldn’t get the song out of my head. I believe Mr. Gill must have been heavily influenced (or if you’re an artist – inspired) by the movie when he chose the setting and characters. And anyone who gets me humming to the tune of, “Now I gotta cut loose, footloose. Kick off the Sunday shoes . . .” for two days straight definitely deserves to have at least one star knocked off. (Lyrics from Footloose complements of www.azlyrics.com)
Would I recommend it: Yes, especially if you like Christian-based literature or you’re a big fan of the soundtrack to Footloose.
Will I read it again: I will not.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/11/re...
This book consists of three major characters and their stories. First, we have Michael, whom everyone expects to follow in the footsteps of his father and become a Baptist Preacher. But he has other plans. Michael stuns his family and community when he unexpectedly leaves the sleepy small town of Ozark Hills, Missouri to go to law school in the Big Apple. Then we have his bad-boy brother-in-law, Ramon, who lives down to everyone’s expectations when he gets sucked into a life filled with crime and cash working as an international gangster. And finally, we have God, who plays a consistently prominent role in all the character’s lives.
So there you have it: the lawyer, the crook, and the Big Guy himself. As unlikely as it seems, Gill skillfully integrates these three characters and their stories to create an entertaining drama.
So why only four stars? I thought the story lacked character development. There are lots of characters in this story. Many ranged from unbelievable to annoying. The small, overly religious setting and its cast had me expecting Kevin Bacon to jump off the page and start performing dance routines from the 1984 movie Footloose. No kidding. I couldn’t get the song out of my head. I believe Mr. Gill must have been heavily influenced (or if you’re an artist – inspired) by the movie when he chose the setting and characters. And anyone who gets me humming to the tune of, “Now I gotta cut loose, footloose. Kick off the Sunday shoes . . .” for two days straight definitely deserves to have at least one star knocked off. (Lyrics from Footloose complements of www.azlyrics.com)
Would I recommend it: Yes, especially if you like Christian-based literature or you’re a big fan of the soundtrack to Footloose.
Will I read it again: I will not.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2013/11/re...
January 27, 2013
The Runner
Michael Knight Series Book 1
By A. Wayne Gill
Michael Knight knows what he wants from life and it isn't the vision his father and older brother see for him. Michael sees himself as a warrior of the people - as a lawyer. But Michael's friends and family - the entire town of Ozark Falls is convinced that Michael will follow in the footsteps of his father Jeremiah and his brother David and become a preacher.
Getting into New York University Law School is the easy part of fulfilling his dream. As Michael works through his first year of studies with the promise of a coveted summer internship his dreams seem to be coming true. The old axiom if it seems to good to be true, it probably is is about to show fruition in not only Michael's life but in that of his sister's boyfriend Ramon Sanchez.
As Michael excels in his classes, Ramon has finally found a job where he is on the fast track to success. All too soon Michael and Ramon are caught up in something more than they bargained for. But will the fast track lead Michael away from more than the small town where he grew up? The draw of money and power is powerful, is it stronger than God's call?
I was provided a copy of this title for the purpose of this review.
Michael Knight Series Book 1
By A. Wayne Gill
Michael Knight knows what he wants from life and it isn't the vision his father and older brother see for him. Michael sees himself as a warrior of the people - as a lawyer. But Michael's friends and family - the entire town of Ozark Falls is convinced that Michael will follow in the footsteps of his father Jeremiah and his brother David and become a preacher.
Getting into New York University Law School is the easy part of fulfilling his dream. As Michael works through his first year of studies with the promise of a coveted summer internship his dreams seem to be coming true. The old axiom if it seems to good to be true, it probably is is about to show fruition in not only Michael's life but in that of his sister's boyfriend Ramon Sanchez.
As Michael excels in his classes, Ramon has finally found a job where he is on the fast track to success. All too soon Michael and Ramon are caught up in something more than they bargained for. But will the fast track lead Michael away from more than the small town where he grew up? The draw of money and power is powerful, is it stronger than God's call?
I was provided a copy of this title for the purpose of this review.
February 3, 2015
A good, intense storyline with its interesting twists and turns will keep you glued to this suspense novel. I was surprised to learn this is the author's first fiction title.
Michael Knight has to decide what he wants as far as career and family life. Should he follow his father and brother into ministry or follow his own dream? His choice will affect more people than he realizes.
When Michael leaves home to continue his education he struggles with his desire to succeed, his family, and following his faith.
This is a great story about the Knight family and the consequences of their decisions. If you like an action packed thriller, you'll certainly enjoy The Runner.
The only disappointing thing is that I have to wait until the next book is released as The Runner is the first in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Michael Knight has to decide what he wants as far as career and family life. Should he follow his father and brother into ministry or follow his own dream? His choice will affect more people than he realizes.
When Michael leaves home to continue his education he struggles with his desire to succeed, his family, and following his faith.
This is a great story about the Knight family and the consequences of their decisions. If you like an action packed thriller, you'll certainly enjoy The Runner.
The only disappointing thing is that I have to wait until the next book is released as The Runner is the first in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2013
Just from reading the back cover I knew that "The Runner" was going to be a thrilling read. I did not know that I would have such an emotional connection to the book.
The story revolves around Michael Knight. Michael is an extremely relatable character (as are all of the characters in the book). He is graduating from college and does not want to follow in his father's footsteps so he decides to go to law school in New York.
While in NY, he realizes his true calling from God. I found this book to be thrilling, heart felt and eye awakening. Even though this is a work of Christian fiction, I would recommend it to anyone who is out there trying to find themselves.
Mr.Gill first novel is as some reviewers have said a knockout punch. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 31, 2013
What I liked about this book is that it shows Christians as real people with real problems, we are only human after all. A great plot with suspense and good characters. I've not read anything by this author before but I look forward to seeing more of his work. At the beginning of the book I felt it was slow moving with too much detail but it does get better. Very enjoyable.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2013
The Runner was a surprisingly refreshing book depicting the life of a young man following his dream of becoming a powerful NY attorney - encountering the dangers of greed, power and blind ambition in the big city.
Michael Knight`s journey packs a powerful punch of surprising factors, real-life lessons, and engaging story-telling. Definitely a good read for all ages!
Michael Knight`s journey packs a powerful punch of surprising factors, real-life lessons, and engaging story-telling. Definitely a good read for all ages!
July 9, 2013
"The Runner" by A. Wayne Gill is one of those rare books you just can't put down. Full of great characters and an awesome storyline, each page is full of suspense and drama that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats. Following each character as they make choice after choice on their roads to self-discovery, Gill has the reader in the palm of his hand, as they excitedly go along for the ride.
Book One in the Michael Knight Series introduces the reader to Gill's main character, who is so busy living his dream that he pushes God's plan for his life to the back burner of his mind, where it lingers just enough to keep him questioning his choices and keep him from enjoying the power, success, prestige and wealth his actions are bringing into his life. As his dreams collide with his desires to serve God, his strength will be tested, not only in his life, but also in the lives of his family and friends. Dealing with death, friendship, and love, Michael must decide if he is running from God or to God.
"The Runner" will also leave the reader with their own questions about the path God has each of us on, but more than that, it will leaves us with the knowledge that no matter how far we stray from God's Will for our lives, we are never out of God's loving hands.
If Book Two in the Michael Knight Series is as outstanding as Book One, then I will be reading A. Wayne Gill's writings for a long time. One of the best Fiction Novels I have read this year!!!
*I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
Book One in the Michael Knight Series introduces the reader to Gill's main character, who is so busy living his dream that he pushes God's plan for his life to the back burner of his mind, where it lingers just enough to keep him questioning his choices and keep him from enjoying the power, success, prestige and wealth his actions are bringing into his life. As his dreams collide with his desires to serve God, his strength will be tested, not only in his life, but also in the lives of his family and friends. Dealing with death, friendship, and love, Michael must decide if he is running from God or to God.
"The Runner" will also leave the reader with their own questions about the path God has each of us on, but more than that, it will leaves us with the knowledge that no matter how far we stray from God's Will for our lives, we are never out of God's loving hands.
If Book Two in the Michael Knight Series is as outstanding as Book One, then I will be reading A. Wayne Gill's writings for a long time. One of the best Fiction Novels I have read this year!!!
*I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
June 14, 2013
From the description of this book, I did not expect it to be overtly Christian. It was. As a Christian, I'm fine with this but I think that the description should let people know it because there are many people who would feel would be quite unhappy if they didn't realize that is what it was until they got it.
This story grew on me the longer I read it. It's the story of a Christian family where the dad and one son are ministers, one son is headed to law school and the daughter's boyfriend is involved in criminal activity. The title "The Runner" refers to the son, Michael, headed to law school in clear defiance of what God has planned for him.
These story lines do intertwine to give a fairly accurate portrayal of family dynamics in a family where their beliefs are the most important part of their lives. I liked it and I think the series can only get better as it goes along.
There were two drawbacks that kept me from giving it more stars. The first was that it was obviously a first novel of a series and the dialogue seemed forced and stilted at times. The second was that the changes that the characters went through seemed to come far too quickly and easily. Major life changes just don't come so easily to most people. I hope the author will fix both of those issues in upcoming books because I grew to enjoy these characters.
I received this book through the GoodReads First Reads program.
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
This story grew on me the longer I read it. It's the story of a Christian family where the dad and one son are ministers, one son is headed to law school and the daughter's boyfriend is involved in criminal activity. The title "The Runner" refers to the son, Michael, headed to law school in clear defiance of what God has planned for him.
These story lines do intertwine to give a fairly accurate portrayal of family dynamics in a family where their beliefs are the most important part of their lives. I liked it and I think the series can only get better as it goes along.
There were two drawbacks that kept me from giving it more stars. The first was that it was obviously a first novel of a series and the dialogue seemed forced and stilted at times. The second was that the changes that the characters went through seemed to come far too quickly and easily. Major life changes just don't come so easily to most people. I hope the author will fix both of those issues in upcoming books because I grew to enjoy these characters.
I received this book through the GoodReads First Reads program.
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
July 9, 2013
The Runner by A. Wayne Gill is a very, very well written story that I enjoyed immensely. I was sad to come to the last page.
I have been finding some fantastic authors that are new to me and so very pleased to read their writings.
Really glad that the Michael Knight story is a seven-part series and I do hope the author will send me the rest of the books in this series.
The characters are very likable and believable. It nice to see a story about a Christian family that loves each other even though they aren’t perfect. Also when they make a mistake they are willing to admit it and move on with their lives.
The Runner has taught me that even when we run from God or our lives, families etc.. God is willing to push us back to where He wants us and where we will be the happiest. I love how the family is so loving and forgiving.
The Runner is full of suspense and intrigue and you won’t be able to put it down. It’s a very easy book to read and full of suspense, love, forgiveness and faith.
I highly recommend The Runner and can’t wait for book 2. Thanks for a wonderful book A. Wayne Gill.
Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I have been finding some fantastic authors that are new to me and so very pleased to read their writings.
Really glad that the Michael Knight story is a seven-part series and I do hope the author will send me the rest of the books in this series.
The characters are very likable and believable. It nice to see a story about a Christian family that loves each other even though they aren’t perfect. Also when they make a mistake they are willing to admit it and move on with their lives.
The Runner has taught me that even when we run from God or our lives, families etc.. God is willing to push us back to where He wants us and where we will be the happiest. I love how the family is so loving and forgiving.
The Runner is full of suspense and intrigue and you won’t be able to put it down. It’s a very easy book to read and full of suspense, love, forgiveness and faith.
I highly recommend The Runner and can’t wait for book 2. Thanks for a wonderful book A. Wayne Gill.
Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
August 6, 2013
If this is the first of the Michael Knight series then I can’t
wait to read the next one!
Michael Knight was from a long line of Preachers. It was
expected, by all who knew him, that he would follow in his
father’s and brother’s footsteps. How could he tell them all
that his isn’t his dream? Even his sweetheart he had grown
up with expected this of him. If he got accepted into law
school, how would he break the news to them all?
This is a story about a young man’s dilemma to chose his
dream of being a lawyer or choosing the path others expected
of him.
Experiences in his life, and in the lives of others close to him,
led him to choose the path he needed to pursue. These experiences
are full of action and choices.
The author, amazingly, was able to bounce between the lives and
experiences of several individuals without losing the reader’s
interest. The writing was very well done, although the plot was
somewhat surreal. It is a fast moving plot, with events
leading, successfully, in the direction of the author’s desired response.
Some Key points: Strong character, loyalty, faith, repentance, forgiveness,
understanding, choices, consequences, & acceptance.
The author generously sent his book to me for an honest review, of which I have given.
wait to read the next one!
Michael Knight was from a long line of Preachers. It was
expected, by all who knew him, that he would follow in his
father’s and brother’s footsteps. How could he tell them all
that his isn’t his dream? Even his sweetheart he had grown
up with expected this of him. If he got accepted into law
school, how would he break the news to them all?
This is a story about a young man’s dilemma to chose his
dream of being a lawyer or choosing the path others expected
of him.
Experiences in his life, and in the lives of others close to him,
led him to choose the path he needed to pursue. These experiences
are full of action and choices.
The author, amazingly, was able to bounce between the lives and
experiences of several individuals without losing the reader’s
interest. The writing was very well done, although the plot was
somewhat surreal. It is a fast moving plot, with events
leading, successfully, in the direction of the author’s desired response.
Some Key points: Strong character, loyalty, faith, repentance, forgiveness,
understanding, choices, consequences, & acceptance.
The author generously sent his book to me for an honest review, of which I have given.
June 18, 2013
This is a complex story with twists and turns. Some have it all, some honestly, some not so much- some have nothing... some rebel, some follow the path laid out for them. There are many important characters in this book, which at first was confusing to me. After I got the who's who straight in my mind, this was an engaging book. It always kept me guessing where things were going to go next, and it sure wasn't where I thought it would go. In the end, God has his hand on all who are His. This is an all around enjoyable book.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review, and I honestly hope I am asked to review the sequels.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review, and I honestly hope I am asked to review the sequels.
September 2, 2013
This is a retelling of the prodigal son story in a modern day setting. This is not a literary masterpiece. There are no eloquent sentences. It is just a good story about family relationships, dreams, and God's gracious activity that brings it all together in the end. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1dAeS0n.
July 5, 2014
Awesome Read!
This is a four point five star read. I was looking for a book to entertain and keep my attention - and that is what I got in this book. I had no idea what I was getting when I hit download on my Fire. I had some emotional highs and lows reading this book. God is great. I highly recommended this book. I am waiting patiently for the sequel.
This is a four point five star read. I was looking for a book to entertain and keep my attention - and that is what I got in this book. I had no idea what I was getting when I hit download on my Fire. I had some emotional highs and lows reading this book. God is great. I highly recommended this book. I am waiting patiently for the sequel.
July 18, 2013
Great story and multiple main characters you can invest in.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews