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Zora and Nicky
Two Hearts, One God.
Should Anything Else Matter?
Zora Nella Hampton Johnson knows exactly where she comes from—and her daddy won't let her forget. Of course for that privilege he keeps her in Prada and Kate Spade, Coach and YSL. He chooses her boyfriend, her car, her address, and ignores her love of painting, art, and the old ways of her grandaddy's soulful AME church—where the hymns pleaded, cajoled, and raised the roof. Her daddy may be a preacher, but some-where among the thousands of church members, the on-site coffee house, and the JumboTron, Zora lost God. And she wants Him back.
Nicky Parker, a recent graduate of Berkeley and reformed playboy, also suffers the trials of being a preacher's kid, and he can't remember the last time he saw eye-to-eye with his white, racist, Southern Baptist father. What he does remember—and it will be forever burned in his brain despite myriad prayers to Jesus—is the way Zora looked the first time he saw her. Like Nefertiti. Only better. When they meet at a bible study far from their respective home churches, the first churlish, sarcastic sparks that fly sizzle with defensiveness. But God has a special way of feeding the flames and though of different flocks, these two lost sheep will find Him and much, much more.
Click Here to listen to an interview with Claudia Mair Burney.
Should Anything Else Matter?
Zora Nella Hampton Johnson knows exactly where she comes from—and her daddy won't let her forget. Of course for that privilege he keeps her in Prada and Kate Spade, Coach and YSL. He chooses her boyfriend, her car, her address, and ignores her love of painting, art, and the old ways of her grandaddy's soulful AME church—where the hymns pleaded, cajoled, and raised the roof. Her daddy may be a preacher, but some-where among the thousands of church members, the on-site coffee house, and the JumboTron, Zora lost God. And she wants Him back.
Nicky Parker, a recent graduate of Berkeley and reformed playboy, also suffers the trials of being a preacher's kid, and he can't remember the last time he saw eye-to-eye with his white, racist, Southern Baptist father. What he does remember—and it will be forever burned in his brain despite myriad prayers to Jesus—is the way Zora looked the first time he saw her. Like Nefertiti. Only better. When they meet at a bible study far from their respective home churches, the first churlish, sarcastic sparks that fly sizzle with defensiveness. But God has a special way of feeding the flames and though of different flocks, these two lost sheep will find Him and much, much more.
Click Here to listen to an interview with Claudia Mair Burney.
389 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2008
53 people are currently reading
1542 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Mair Burney
21 books133 followersClaudia Mair Burney is the author of the novel Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black and White, as well as the Amanda Bell Brown Mysteries and the Exorsista series for teens. Her work has appeared in Discipleship Journal magazine, The One Year Life Verse Devotional Bible, and Justice in the Burbs. She lives in Michigan with her husband, five of their seven children, and a quirky dwarf rabbit.
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June 15, 2011
What do you do when you feel like a stranger in your own land?
That’s the question that Zora and Nicky face. They both grew up in the church, children of ministers. Their whole lives were about living and walking in the footsteps of Jesus. But when did it become a matter of trying to please their fathers more than Jesus? When did this require the sacrifice of their entire identities?
Both Zora and Nicky are adrift. Nicky is the prodigal son, returned to the fold to try to rebuild his troubled relationship with a father who never showed him the loving embrace that a dad should show his son, like Jesus loves His church. Nicky wants to be a writer, but the words won’t come. He feels so alone and trapped. His girlfriend is the perfect girl for the life that his parents want for him. But not for Nicky. And Nicky is dealing with three years of celibacy and sobriety, after wild teenage years of leading church maidens astray when he was asking for help from a family who left his cries unheard. When he goes to a bible study held by his boss, he encounters the beautiful, dark-skinned Zora, and feels a mix of emotions that do not strike him as healthy with everything else on his plate. Is it just lust or he could he be in love?
Zora is the daughter of a minister who preaches prosperity to those who can proclaim God’s word with faith. He has no tolerance for poor Christians or those who just want to get by. Although he gives her everything material she could wish for, designer furniture, clothes, and a Lexus, he controls every aspect of her life, and seems blind to the true unrest in his church. Zora walks out of church one day, praying that God would show her how to be poor in spirit. She goes to a bible study full of white people and feels that intense emotional connection with God that she feels like has been absent, but she’s embarrassed by the way she breaks down in front of the other bible study members. And then there is the gorgeous blue-eyed, blond rogue that she’s been warned about although they truly love Nicky. How can she be drawn to a troubled and rascally white man when she doesn’t even love the perfect black man hand-picked by her father, and groomed to be the future minister of his church? What does she do when her father takes everything away because he feels she’s in rebellion just by trying to be herself? And to her surprise, the white folks from her bible study, and the roguish Nicky, come to her aid when her family and most of her church turns a blind eye.
Zora and Nicky is a very moving romantic story, but it also strikes at the heart of a reader who grew up in the Christian faith, but is trying to find out where she or he fits into the flock of God’s church. I loved how Ms. Burney wasn’t afraid to get real. She showed how church is full of people who do one thing and say another, but it’s also clear that there are many who love God so much, but they just don’t know how they are supposed to go about doing that. I just loved both Nicky and Zora’s characters. Not because they were perfect, but because they were real and hurting and damaged. They both had a genuine love for Jesus, and they wanted to be wrapped in His arms in all their wounded, flawed selves. Not only that, they wanted to have fathers who knew how to love them, and accept them for who they were. Their troubled relationships with their fathers clearly affected their relationships with God, because they didn’t know that unconditional love that Jesus has for us, unused to feeling that in the model for His love that one’s father and minister should show.
The racial issues in this story are pertinent and handled well. Ms. Burney addressed the ugly things that normal people think and do on both sides of the racial issue. Although the way Nicky’s grandfather and father act about Zora was absolutely chilling, Ms. Burney also shows that black folks can be just as racist in their thinking as white folks. And neither is okay. Because humans are just human. And no person should be seen as the stand-in or representative for their race. It isn’t fair, because you can only be you. And Christians of all people should know better than to judge someone for the outside, the mere difference in melanin that means nothing to God. Although it was clear how powerful the bond was between Zora and Nicky, they had to work out their own issues about race so that they could see each other with the love that God put in their souls for each other.
Even with the sometimes mean things they said to each other, I loved how they seemed to get who each other was deep down, and supported that, even when people who should have loved, supported and understood each other didn’t. I loved that their relationship was passionate even with no sex taking place (just very passionate kisses), how they talked to each other, fought for each other, and dreamed together. I loved that they both shared a powerful love for Christ that was another thing that bound them together. They had the makings of a relationship I could truly see flourishing fifty years in the future.
Zora and Nicky was a book that made me cry. It made me angry in some scenes. It affected me deeply, and probed into the hurting places that I have regarding my own walk in the Christian faith; dealing with that feeling that you don’t fit into the body of Christ the way you should. That even though Jesus loves you the way you are and wants the best for you, others don’t think you measure up. Also seeing the superficial Christianity that seems okay for most, and how you want something deep and true and it feels like you can’t find it. I could identify so well with those aspects of this book. And the romantic in me loved the beautiful story of love found between Zora and Nicky. I felt that God did bring them together, and He was working in both of them for their good and for their emotional wholeness and healing.
I didn’t much care for either Nicky or Zora’s father. Actually, I think they failed in very profound ways. I did feel that at the end of the day, their mothers did show the love that both Zora and Nicky needed, even though it wasn’t enough to balance out the pain that each father caused them. I also liked Zora’s relationship with her friend MacKenzie. They stood by each other through tough times, encouraging each other to reach for their dreams.
I really appreciated the characters of Linda, Rick, and Billie, who are members of the bible study. Also Ms. Pamela, one of the members of Zora’s congregation. Who all represent Christians who are filled with the love of Jesus, and have made it their mission to show it, even though some Christians wouldn’t find them fitting or good enough to represent the faith. However, they represent Jesus in the purest way. Jesus was the despised, rejected man who owned nothing but the robe on his back, was born in a manger, and died on a cross. And He is the one who is able to save and love everyone. So that’s alright with me if a shabby person shows me Jesus in my everyday life. And they were there to show that love when Nicky and Zora needed it. Just writing this review is making me cry. I just loved this book. It was so meaningful to me. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
That’s the question that Zora and Nicky face. They both grew up in the church, children of ministers. Their whole lives were about living and walking in the footsteps of Jesus. But when did it become a matter of trying to please their fathers more than Jesus? When did this require the sacrifice of their entire identities?
Both Zora and Nicky are adrift. Nicky is the prodigal son, returned to the fold to try to rebuild his troubled relationship with a father who never showed him the loving embrace that a dad should show his son, like Jesus loves His church. Nicky wants to be a writer, but the words won’t come. He feels so alone and trapped. His girlfriend is the perfect girl for the life that his parents want for him. But not for Nicky. And Nicky is dealing with three years of celibacy and sobriety, after wild teenage years of leading church maidens astray when he was asking for help from a family who left his cries unheard. When he goes to a bible study held by his boss, he encounters the beautiful, dark-skinned Zora, and feels a mix of emotions that do not strike him as healthy with everything else on his plate. Is it just lust or he could he be in love?
Zora is the daughter of a minister who preaches prosperity to those who can proclaim God’s word with faith. He has no tolerance for poor Christians or those who just want to get by. Although he gives her everything material she could wish for, designer furniture, clothes, and a Lexus, he controls every aspect of her life, and seems blind to the true unrest in his church. Zora walks out of church one day, praying that God would show her how to be poor in spirit. She goes to a bible study full of white people and feels that intense emotional connection with God that she feels like has been absent, but she’s embarrassed by the way she breaks down in front of the other bible study members. And then there is the gorgeous blue-eyed, blond rogue that she’s been warned about although they truly love Nicky. How can she be drawn to a troubled and rascally white man when she doesn’t even love the perfect black man hand-picked by her father, and groomed to be the future minister of his church? What does she do when her father takes everything away because he feels she’s in rebellion just by trying to be herself? And to her surprise, the white folks from her bible study, and the roguish Nicky, come to her aid when her family and most of her church turns a blind eye.
Zora and Nicky is a very moving romantic story, but it also strikes at the heart of a reader who grew up in the Christian faith, but is trying to find out where she or he fits into the flock of God’s church. I loved how Ms. Burney wasn’t afraid to get real. She showed how church is full of people who do one thing and say another, but it’s also clear that there are many who love God so much, but they just don’t know how they are supposed to go about doing that. I just loved both Nicky and Zora’s characters. Not because they were perfect, but because they were real and hurting and damaged. They both had a genuine love for Jesus, and they wanted to be wrapped in His arms in all their wounded, flawed selves. Not only that, they wanted to have fathers who knew how to love them, and accept them for who they were. Their troubled relationships with their fathers clearly affected their relationships with God, because they didn’t know that unconditional love that Jesus has for us, unused to feeling that in the model for His love that one’s father and minister should show.
The racial issues in this story are pertinent and handled well. Ms. Burney addressed the ugly things that normal people think and do on both sides of the racial issue. Although the way Nicky’s grandfather and father act about Zora was absolutely chilling, Ms. Burney also shows that black folks can be just as racist in their thinking as white folks. And neither is okay. Because humans are just human. And no person should be seen as the stand-in or representative for their race. It isn’t fair, because you can only be you. And Christians of all people should know better than to judge someone for the outside, the mere difference in melanin that means nothing to God. Although it was clear how powerful the bond was between Zora and Nicky, they had to work out their own issues about race so that they could see each other with the love that God put in their souls for each other.
Even with the sometimes mean things they said to each other, I loved how they seemed to get who each other was deep down, and supported that, even when people who should have loved, supported and understood each other didn’t. I loved that their relationship was passionate even with no sex taking place (just very passionate kisses), how they talked to each other, fought for each other, and dreamed together. I loved that they both shared a powerful love for Christ that was another thing that bound them together. They had the makings of a relationship I could truly see flourishing fifty years in the future.
Zora and Nicky was a book that made me cry. It made me angry in some scenes. It affected me deeply, and probed into the hurting places that I have regarding my own walk in the Christian faith; dealing with that feeling that you don’t fit into the body of Christ the way you should. That even though Jesus loves you the way you are and wants the best for you, others don’t think you measure up. Also seeing the superficial Christianity that seems okay for most, and how you want something deep and true and it feels like you can’t find it. I could identify so well with those aspects of this book. And the romantic in me loved the beautiful story of love found between Zora and Nicky. I felt that God did bring them together, and He was working in both of them for their good and for their emotional wholeness and healing.
I didn’t much care for either Nicky or Zora’s father. Actually, I think they failed in very profound ways. I did feel that at the end of the day, their mothers did show the love that both Zora and Nicky needed, even though it wasn’t enough to balance out the pain that each father caused them. I also liked Zora’s relationship with her friend MacKenzie. They stood by each other through tough times, encouraging each other to reach for their dreams.
I really appreciated the characters of Linda, Rick, and Billie, who are members of the bible study. Also Ms. Pamela, one of the members of Zora’s congregation. Who all represent Christians who are filled with the love of Jesus, and have made it their mission to show it, even though some Christians wouldn’t find them fitting or good enough to represent the faith. However, they represent Jesus in the purest way. Jesus was the despised, rejected man who owned nothing but the robe on his back, was born in a manger, and died on a cross. And He is the one who is able to save and love everyone. So that’s alright with me if a shabby person shows me Jesus in my everyday life. And they were there to show that love when Nicky and Zora needed it. Just writing this review is making me cry. I just loved this book. It was so meaningful to me. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
February 8, 2013
The story was so simple and realistic. Every one of the characters could have been someone that I knew. They were flawed and genuine people. Confused about themselves, the people they loved, and their relationship with God. The story manages to deal with all these issues very well.
However, the main reason I gave this one 5 stars was that poem "Beautiful Mosaic." This is so cheesy, but I actually cried. It just spoke to me.
However, the main reason I gave this one 5 stars was that poem "Beautiful Mosaic." This is so cheesy, but I actually cried. It just spoke to me.
December 19, 2023
Where do I even begin with this story? First of all, I don’t even remember how I stumbled upon this brilliant author, but I’m so glad that I did! Zora & Nicky is a clean romance that explores the subject of race and falling in love in America. I love that this was set during the “My Space” era. What happens when a white “preachers kid” falls for a Black “pk” pretty much lust at first sight that turns into love? This book explores it all!
This book made me feel all kinds of feelings, but most of all the healing that only Jesus could do in their hearts pricked me the most. I feel like this book could be dissected and broken down in a study. The bottom line for all races is that we are all sinners, poor and needy, bruised and broken by sin. This was possibly the most amazing Christian romance that I’ve ever read. Ever! It tackled real issues concerning faith, sex, lust, racism in churches and in families. The writing of this story is impeccable. I wish all racial issues were written with such care as this one was. I feel like this review lacks the Justice this story deserves, but just know it touched something deep within my heart and I appreciate the realness and rawness of which this incredible author wrote this love story. Also this story had moments where I laughed out loud and that made it so great as well.
This book made me feel all kinds of feelings, but most of all the healing that only Jesus could do in their hearts pricked me the most. I feel like this book could be dissected and broken down in a study. The bottom line for all races is that we are all sinners, poor and needy, bruised and broken by sin. This was possibly the most amazing Christian romance that I’ve ever read. Ever! It tackled real issues concerning faith, sex, lust, racism in churches and in families. The writing of this story is impeccable. I wish all racial issues were written with such care as this one was. I feel like this review lacks the Justice this story deserves, but just know it touched something deep within my heart and I appreciate the realness and rawness of which this incredible author wrote this love story. Also this story had moments where I laughed out loud and that made it so great as well.
January 19, 2013
This is the most amazing Christian romance story I've read! It is real, edgy, raw and authentic. It takes real issues (sex, lust, faith, racism, parents, relationships) that real single Christians deal with while dating. Nothing is glossed over. The reader lives the struggles with the characters. The writing is beautiful. The characters are honest, flawed, broken and searching for Christ.
I loved that it was written for the Christ-following readers. I doubt non-believers will 'get it.' The author doesn't explain the faith stuff, she assumes you know where the characters are coming from. Look at all the bad reviews, especially on Amazon, and you'll see the complaints about the religion/faith aspects. If you don't have the Holy Spirit in you when you read this book you miss the most amazing story and struggle. You'll only see half of the love story and complain because there's no sex scene. The beauty is in Christ's love played out on these pages.
It is my prayer that I can find more novels like this one that encourage and challenge my faith in real life settings. So much of Christian fiction is 'safe.' I love that the publisher wrote a defense note before the story began. I'm assuming that is because they were afraid this story would offend Christians. It is not a pretty little story with a simple conflict that gets wrapped up with a pat answer and ends with a nice prayer.
I loved it.
I want more.
I loved that it was written for the Christ-following readers. I doubt non-believers will 'get it.' The author doesn't explain the faith stuff, she assumes you know where the characters are coming from. Look at all the bad reviews, especially on Amazon, and you'll see the complaints about the religion/faith aspects. If you don't have the Holy Spirit in you when you read this book you miss the most amazing story and struggle. You'll only see half of the love story and complain because there's no sex scene. The beauty is in Christ's love played out on these pages.
It is my prayer that I can find more novels like this one that encourage and challenge my faith in real life settings. So much of Christian fiction is 'safe.' I love that the publisher wrote a defense note before the story began. I'm assuming that is because they were afraid this story would offend Christians. It is not a pretty little story with a simple conflict that gets wrapped up with a pat answer and ends with a nice prayer.
I loved it.
I want more.
July 5, 2011
This book was great! I hope that Zora & Nicky's story will continue & that we will see it on the Big Screen! Claudia Mair Burney is truly gifted...
January 22, 2011
WOW
So....I've been trying to read romances for awhile, right? And kind of hating it because I keep getting slapped in the face with horrible writing. And I've also tried to read contemporary Christian books for awhile too, and hating the bad writing and getting slapped in the face with the love of Jesus. Last but not least, I've been trying to read interacial romances, and besides carrying over the bad writing from the romance genre, I've been getting slapped in the face with all levels of black-vs-white racism.
So how the heck did I end up loving this Christian interacial romance??
Goes to show, anything goes when it's done well. I thought I had racism fatigue, but this book made me simply not care, even when it was dialed up to dent-my-head-in-with-a-mallet Harsh.
This book is so full of Bible verses, hymn songs, and people talking nonstop about love of God, love of man, love love love and forgiveness that you could probably print a biblical study guide out of excerpts. It also went into church cultures that were way out of my realm of experience.
And I ate it up. Why? Because of the characters! The characterization! They had such distinct, yet recognizable voices. The author has a gift for dialogue. The people are genuinely funny, sassy, cute and interesting. The hero, despite being gorgeous and all that jazz, turned out to be different somehow, approachable and adorable even when he's so messed up. The author has a great gift of portraying the dirty underside of Christian people, nay, of HUMANS. Hypocrisy is everywhere. The main characters were so full of flaws that it's a wonder they could still walk with all the crap they carried, and the author doesn't let them get away with it. The characters call each other out on their nastiness, or if not, they see it in themselves and hate themselves for it. They struggle and founder and when they're about to give up, God hauls them up by the hair and makes them keep going. This book is PG, but this is no fluffy-bunny-Amish-girl romance. This deals with many painful, raw issues that should be covered more in Christian media, rather than the hyper-sanitized insular crap that it generates for itself.
Not to say this book is perfect.
The ending does rush into an ugly last-minute resurgence of Racist Crazy that feels tacked on, as if an editor's checklist said
"there must be one last conflict to keep the hero and heroine apart"! Then it gets resolved quickly, and the closing scene is so bizarrely cultish-weird-Kumbaya that...well...it was kind of amusing. But hey, what do I know. My faith life is so dried up compared to these characters, I'm not really sure I can judge.
What else? By the end, the hero finally says "I suck" one too many times. But overall, I think I can live with that just fine. Now all I hope is that this book will hold up to re-reading.
So....I've been trying to read romances for awhile, right? And kind of hating it because I keep getting slapped in the face with horrible writing. And I've also tried to read contemporary Christian books for awhile too, and hating the bad writing and getting slapped in the face with the love of Jesus. Last but not least, I've been trying to read interacial romances, and besides carrying over the bad writing from the romance genre, I've been getting slapped in the face with all levels of black-vs-white racism.
So how the heck did I end up loving this Christian interacial romance??
Goes to show, anything goes when it's done well. I thought I had racism fatigue, but this book made me simply not care, even when it was dialed up to dent-my-head-in-with-a-mallet Harsh.
This book is so full of Bible verses, hymn songs, and people talking nonstop about love of God, love of man, love love love and forgiveness that you could probably print a biblical study guide out of excerpts. It also went into church cultures that were way out of my realm of experience.
And I ate it up. Why? Because of the characters! The characterization! They had such distinct, yet recognizable voices. The author has a gift for dialogue. The people are genuinely funny, sassy, cute and interesting. The hero, despite being gorgeous and all that jazz, turned out to be different somehow, approachable and adorable even when he's so messed up. The author has a great gift of portraying the dirty underside of Christian people, nay, of HUMANS. Hypocrisy is everywhere. The main characters were so full of flaws that it's a wonder they could still walk with all the crap they carried, and the author doesn't let them get away with it. The characters call each other out on their nastiness, or if not, they see it in themselves and hate themselves for it. They struggle and founder and when they're about to give up, God hauls them up by the hair and makes them keep going. This book is PG, but this is no fluffy-bunny-Amish-girl romance. This deals with many painful, raw issues that should be covered more in Christian media, rather than the hyper-sanitized insular crap that it generates for itself.
Not to say this book is perfect.
The ending does rush into an ugly last-minute resurgence of Racist Crazy that feels tacked on, as if an editor's checklist said
"there must be one last conflict to keep the hero and heroine apart"! Then it gets resolved quickly, and the closing scene is so bizarrely cultish-weird-Kumbaya that...well...it was kind of amusing. But hey, what do I know. My faith life is so dried up compared to these characters, I'm not really sure I can judge.
What else? By the end, the hero finally says "I suck" one too many times. But overall, I think I can live with that just fine. Now all I hope is that this book will hold up to re-reading.
August 10, 2013
Hands down my favorite book IN THE ENTIRE WORLD!! Words cannot describe the intoxicating blend of race, sex, faith, and honesty in such a raw and beautifully developed format. READ THIS BOOK! I read it in one sitting and it changed my life profoundly. I read snippets of it everyday and I've had this book for 5 years - it never bores me.
May 13, 2011
This might be the edgiest Christian fiction I've read. Loved it!
March 2, 2017
Zora and Nicky two people with similar backgrounds but racially different. Zora is a young educated woman that has her life planned out for her, if it is not marrying the man that her Father has chosen, it is becoming the first lady of the church. Now it is apparent that she hates to be seen in the church with her many secret sins, yet she feels justified knowing that others feel the same she does. Miles, her ever patient boyfriend thinks that she needs to be focused about her relationship with God, than her artistic talent. However, she thinks that he is only the spokesperson of her legalistic Father who wants her to be pure before God and the church. Little does she know, she is going to have a bigger burden to bear when she meets Nicky.
Nicky is a Caucasian man who has a lot of skeletons of his past that he does not want to be resurrect. Prior to meeting Zora, he is already taken but wants to explore other options. Forced against his father demanding wishes, he wonders if there is actually a God out there that actually cares about his well being- or can talk about anything other than staying in 'his will'. Unsupported by his Father, the two of them do not get along if they are not talking about religion or his role in the church.
Faith joins Nora and Nicky together in this epic love story about the church and loyalty!
HOLY S..Shut your mouth! This book felt too close to home, it brought back memories of me growing up in a religious household. Every thing was a sin, I questioned that there was a loving God in Heaven but a raging bipolar monster who wanted my money in churches and for me to believe everything the good book tells you. Thank God, my perception of God changed cause that perception of God will turn anyone to an agnostic or an atheist! I WAS Nicky, I too worried that I could not have a conversation with my love ones without them mentioning God or Jesus every five seconds.
Back to the book, it was emotionally gripping and unforgettable. Usually I do not like Christian romance cause of how cheesy it can be, but this book was so raw, deep and authentic.
Highly recommended to all people regardless of the faith you are in or if you have little or no faith in it!
The best book I read this year so far, and I am HARD to please!
Nicky is a Caucasian man who has a lot of skeletons of his past that he does not want to be resurrect. Prior to meeting Zora, he is already taken but wants to explore other options. Forced against his father demanding wishes, he wonders if there is actually a God out there that actually cares about his well being- or can talk about anything other than staying in 'his will'. Unsupported by his Father, the two of them do not get along if they are not talking about religion or his role in the church.
Faith joins Nora and Nicky together in this epic love story about the church and loyalty!
HOLY S..Shut your mouth! This book felt too close to home, it brought back memories of me growing up in a religious household. Every thing was a sin, I questioned that there was a loving God in Heaven but a raging bipolar monster who wanted my money in churches and for me to believe everything the good book tells you. Thank God, my perception of God changed cause that perception of God will turn anyone to an agnostic or an atheist! I WAS Nicky, I too worried that I could not have a conversation with my love ones without them mentioning God or Jesus every five seconds.
Back to the book, it was emotionally gripping and unforgettable. Usually I do not like Christian romance cause of how cheesy it can be, but this book was so raw, deep and authentic.
Highly recommended to all people regardless of the faith you are in or if you have little or no faith in it!
The best book I read this year so far, and I am HARD to please!
April 12, 2011
All I can say is WOW!!!! Amazing!!! I had no idea that this was a Christian novel. What a wonderfully written and beautiful love story. There are actually two concurring story lines, the first is the obvious interacial couple. However, most importantly, the second underlying story line has to do with finding one's niche with Christ and what it means to be a Christian. Although one can grow up in the church, how does one actually set out and establish their own personal relationship with God? How does one handle learning that God really does love sinners like us? I would recommend this novel to anyone who has had this doubt or question this within themselves. I believe at some point in all our lives, we all questioned this as we go through this journey. It is good to see that we are not alone, others have the same inquiries. If I knew of a Christian youth group, I would recommend this book for them also. All ages can relate to the subject matter.
January 26, 2009
The novel revolves around the relationship between Nicky, a young white college graduate surviving on minimal means, and Zora, a self-described ‘Black American Princess’ who drives a Lexus and enjoys her designer labels. They meet at a bible study, and though the relationship gets off to a rocky start, their love grows despite incredible opposition from friends and families. Burney unflinchingly takes on the issues of race and religion, challenging the reader to examine one's own subtle prejudices. An intriguing read.
March 26, 2015
Woah, woah, woah!
Interracial couples. Abortion. Rape. Masturbation. Racism. Apostasy. Hypocrisy.
All mentioned in a novel... by a Christian???
Published by a Christian Publishing Company!?!?!?! (David C. Cook, I LOVE you!)
Yes. Tis' is true. All of it.
Now before you move your mouse away from the To Read button, all of these themes are for the spiritual growth (and entertainment, of course) of the audience that reads this novel. However, if you are prudish, you won't enjoy this novel.
AMAZING book! SUPER hard-hitting!
Zora and Nicky are alike in various ways: both are pastor's kids; both are artists; both are misunderstood; both are frustrated with their lives.
But one main thing differentiates the both of them... Zora is black and Nicky is white. And they might have just fallen in love.
If you think two Christians can put that fact behind them and move on.... you're wrong. As Christians, they should, right? But they don't. Their own flaws, insecurities, and not-so-obvious feelings of racism place each other in an emotional roller coaster.
And if you think that's the only thing that keeps them apart, wait until you meet their families...
Do yourself a favor and read this amazing book.
Interracial couples. Abortion. Rape. Masturbation. Racism. Apostasy. Hypocrisy.
All mentioned in a novel... by a Christian???
Published by a Christian Publishing Company!?!?!?! (David C. Cook, I LOVE you!)
Yes. Tis' is true. All of it.
Now before you move your mouse away from the To Read button, all of these themes are for the spiritual growth (and entertainment, of course) of the audience that reads this novel. However, if you are prudish, you won't enjoy this novel.
AMAZING book! SUPER hard-hitting!
Zora and Nicky are alike in various ways: both are pastor's kids; both are artists; both are misunderstood; both are frustrated with their lives.
But one main thing differentiates the both of them... Zora is black and Nicky is white. And they might have just fallen in love.
If you think two Christians can put that fact behind them and move on.... you're wrong. As Christians, they should, right? But they don't. Their own flaws, insecurities, and not-so-obvious feelings of racism place each other in an emotional roller coaster.
And if you think that's the only thing that keeps them apart, wait until you meet their families...
Do yourself a favor and read this amazing book.
December 27, 2008
Loved it! I found it to be a well-written, thought-provoking novel. I enjoyed the interracial love story, and the book raised a lot of interesting issues about church and finding God, among other things.
September 14, 2015
Rounded up from 3.5... This was an experience.So many words come to mind to describe it... honest, entertaining, and very well written. However, I had some issues with the biblical aspects (too much cherry picking, imo) and the ending left me cold.
March 26, 2009
THIS IS TRULY A BEAUTIFUL BOOK ABOUT UNDERSTANDING AND SHARING GOD. IT TAKES A SERIOUS LOOK AT RACE RELATIONS AND RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE. VERY REAL AND RELEVANT.
March 6, 2013
One of the best novels I've read in a long while. Real, shocking at times, and very romantic. Can't wait to read more from Claudia Mair Burney!
June 20, 2009
Zora Hampton is very aware of her African heritage. How can you not be when your father is breathing it down your neck 24/7? But her father treats her with the utmost respect and gives her anything she wants. He makes sure she has the perfect car, apartment, and even boyfriend. Her father doesn't seem to take in her considerations though because he has ignored Zora's love of painting. Zora's not sure if she's happy with her current lifestyle and even though her dad's the preacher of one of the biggest churches in the city, she seems to have lost her way to God. Nicky Parker is the All American rebel. He's hot, can't stand his racist, preacher-father, and he got a girl pregnant. He decided to California to get away from his father and get rid of his player reputation. When he returns he seems to have left God in California. This unlikely pair is brought together at a Bible Study far from each of their home churches. There is instantly a spark of love and neither one of them can get the other off their mind. These two have nothing in common except that they are both preacher's kids or PK's as they like to refer to themselves. Within a week of meeting each other circumstances throw them together at every opportunity, creating a love so deep that nothing can tear them apart. Could it be the hand of God?
At first I was anxious to read this book, but when I started it I was really bored. There was still something there though that wouldn't let me put the book down. Whatever you do, read at least 100 pages into the book and you'll be hooked. I am so glad I continued reading because this is one of the most memorable books I have read in a while. It made me feel so many different emotions and really contemplate my life. Usually when I think of a love story I think about those cutesy little Simon Pulse Romantic Comedies. Well let me tell you, Zora & Nicky is not a book like that. It is one of the most powerful love stories I've ever read. It is not only love between Zora and Nicky, but their love and relationship with God. These characters go through thick and thin to be with each other, defeating all odds. If you are looking for a love story that will open your eyes to the world, then Zora & Nicky is the book for you. Even if you are not looking for a love story, still pick it up and read it. There are so many lessons to be learned whether you are white, black, yellow, or red. The characters in this book are so well developed that the reader can actually feel the character's emotions. I know if I was in Zora's position I wold never give Nicky away either. I think a round of applause is definitely in order for Claudia Mair Burney for a stunning, heartfelt novel.
I'm sorry that this is such a lengthy post, but I truly felt so different after reading this book that I had to gush about it! Even if Christian literature is not your thing, you should still read the book because there are so many more themes in the book besides the whole God thing. Trust me, this is the first Christian fiction book that I have ever read, and as you can see, I loved it!
At first I was anxious to read this book, but when I started it I was really bored. There was still something there though that wouldn't let me put the book down. Whatever you do, read at least 100 pages into the book and you'll be hooked. I am so glad I continued reading because this is one of the most memorable books I have read in a while. It made me feel so many different emotions and really contemplate my life. Usually when I think of a love story I think about those cutesy little Simon Pulse Romantic Comedies. Well let me tell you, Zora & Nicky is not a book like that. It is one of the most powerful love stories I've ever read. It is not only love between Zora and Nicky, but their love and relationship with God. These characters go through thick and thin to be with each other, defeating all odds. If you are looking for a love story that will open your eyes to the world, then Zora & Nicky is the book for you. Even if you are not looking for a love story, still pick it up and read it. There are so many lessons to be learned whether you are white, black, yellow, or red. The characters in this book are so well developed that the reader can actually feel the character's emotions. I know if I was in Zora's position I wold never give Nicky away either. I think a round of applause is definitely in order for Claudia Mair Burney for a stunning, heartfelt novel.
I'm sorry that this is such a lengthy post, but I truly felt so different after reading this book that I had to gush about it! Even if Christian literature is not your thing, you should still read the book because there are so many more themes in the book besides the whole God thing. Trust me, this is the first Christian fiction book that I have ever read, and as you can see, I loved it!
May 25, 2008
love to read, but lately all I've been doing is reviewing and editing books. These tasks somehow drain my love for reading until this month. My friend, Claudia Mair Burney, who write the hot pants off me sent me three of her latest novels, all divine, but this one--Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black and White--it did something I rarely get, something that justifies my reasoning for writing inspired fiction...illumination.
Zora & Nicky in short is an interracial/interdenominational love story. How do people of different races build a world together? How do people of different ideas of sound doctrine live a life together? How do people love through Christ? A not so simple love story written with simple, elegant, honest, passionate prose. Best book of the year so far.
My favorite passage:
Because I have broken into a million pieces. Because I have scattered all over the sidewalk. Because I am not flesh and blood, only glass and dangerous dust that can burrow in your eyes and cause you to bleed, I try to remember that my broken soul is embodied and no one can see that only some shell of a soul is nearly all that is left.
Embodied, this shell I am makes a move toward the cab. The body of Zora has hands, and one of those brown and barely responsive hands takes hold of the handle of the back passenger side door, and somehow I enter the cab. I sit down inside. I watch Nicky give the driver what looks like more money than he should. I see them shake hands.
It is this Zora that still feels Nicky's hands at my waist while the pieces inside of me slide downward. I still feel the sensation of my stomach dropping to my knees. Oh Lord, oh Lord, oh Lord. Could he hear those pieces of me shifting to my toes, sounding like falling water? Like a rain stick turned upside down again and again?
I put my hand to my mouth and press my lips to my open palm. I can still feel the pressure of his lips, in turn fierce, firm, gentle. I can still taste him on my tongue, and I savor him.
"Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth:for thy love is better than wine."
No wonder that mysterious book of songs starts that way. I understand this now.
Zora & Nicky in short is an interracial/interdenominational love story. How do people of different races build a world together? How do people of different ideas of sound doctrine live a life together? How do people love through Christ? A not so simple love story written with simple, elegant, honest, passionate prose. Best book of the year so far.
My favorite passage:
Because I have broken into a million pieces. Because I have scattered all over the sidewalk. Because I am not flesh and blood, only glass and dangerous dust that can burrow in your eyes and cause you to bleed, I try to remember that my broken soul is embodied and no one can see that only some shell of a soul is nearly all that is left.
Embodied, this shell I am makes a move toward the cab. The body of Zora has hands, and one of those brown and barely responsive hands takes hold of the handle of the back passenger side door, and somehow I enter the cab. I sit down inside. I watch Nicky give the driver what looks like more money than he should. I see them shake hands.
It is this Zora that still feels Nicky's hands at my waist while the pieces inside of me slide downward. I still feel the sensation of my stomach dropping to my knees. Oh Lord, oh Lord, oh Lord. Could he hear those pieces of me shifting to my toes, sounding like falling water? Like a rain stick turned upside down again and again?
I put my hand to my mouth and press my lips to my open palm. I can still feel the pressure of his lips, in turn fierce, firm, gentle. I can still taste him on my tongue, and I savor him.
"Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth:for thy love is better than wine."
No wonder that mysterious book of songs starts that way. I understand this now.
December 15, 2013
I finished this book in two days. What surprised me was how unexpectedly funny the inner dialogues were. I didn't think a book with the subject matter it covers would be as humorous. The author has a delightful sense of humor. I love that the book is told from the first person perspectives of the heroine and hero. You really get into their heads and hearts. Both characters struggled with their faith, their families interpretations of Christian behavior, proper relationships for a preacher's child (they're both preacher's kids) career, education, and so on. Despite their physical dissimilarities, Zora and Nicky had so much in common, which I think is a message in the book. We need to look deeper, beyond the shallow physical exterior to what really makes a person.
The book has strong Christian overtones (masturbation is a sin, you shouldn't even kiss before marriage, stay a virgin until marriage, abortion is genocide, etc.) Even a nonbeliever like me enjoyed the story. I've read other fiction books, not even considered Christian fiction, that were much more blatant in promoting Christian themes. While the author could have toned down some of the religious aspects, overall I thought the Christian aspects were woven well into the story so that it didn't seem like the author was using the book to proselytize. The racism was addressed in a very straightforward way. I've read some interracial stories where prejudice isn't even mentioned. This author wasn't afraid to tackle the "n" word or stereotypes. She shows how those who claim to be followers of Christ can be prejudiced no matter what their skin color. I would have given this five stars, but the vast majority of the story happens in 7 days. The connection was too rushed and I felt the author tacked on a confrontation at the end of the book just to create more drama for the two characters. Had the pacing/plotting been better, I would have given this 5 stars.
All in all, a delightful book which would be a good selection for a book club.
The book has strong Christian overtones (masturbation is a sin, you shouldn't even kiss before marriage, stay a virgin until marriage, abortion is genocide, etc.) Even a nonbeliever like me enjoyed the story. I've read other fiction books, not even considered Christian fiction, that were much more blatant in promoting Christian themes. While the author could have toned down some of the religious aspects, overall I thought the Christian aspects were woven well into the story so that it didn't seem like the author was using the book to proselytize. The racism was addressed in a very straightforward way. I've read some interracial stories where prejudice isn't even mentioned. This author wasn't afraid to tackle the "n" word or stereotypes. She shows how those who claim to be followers of Christ can be prejudiced no matter what their skin color. I would have given this five stars, but the vast majority of the story happens in 7 days. The connection was too rushed and I felt the author tacked on a confrontation at the end of the book just to create more drama for the two characters. Had the pacing/plotting been better, I would have given this 5 stars.
All in all, a delightful book which would be a good selection for a book club.
June 8, 2012
4 stars.
I really loved this book. It was easy to read, and I never once found myself actually wanting to put the book down because I got to a boring part. The only time I put the book down was when I HAD to go somewhere.
I'll admit that romance isn't one of my favorite things (though I still often read it), but I loved the way it was written in this book. I liked the character interactions, and seeing how they craved the same closeness to God.
A contemporary setting is usually one of my least favorite things to read, but I never minded it while I read this book.
The only major problem I have with the book is that most of the events of the book took place over a very short period of time (most of it takes place in less than a week). It seems like way too much is happening, for it to have been in only around 4 days, though it would have all fit in well with a longer period of time.
Though this is also probably related to me never being one to believe in love at first sight, so I thought it was just a bit ridiculous that they fell for each other in that length of time.
Overall, it's a good book and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who thinks that the description sounds interesting because it definitely lived up to my expectations (and probably surpassed them).
I really loved this book. It was easy to read, and I never once found myself actually wanting to put the book down because I got to a boring part. The only time I put the book down was when I HAD to go somewhere.
I'll admit that romance isn't one of my favorite things (though I still often read it), but I loved the way it was written in this book. I liked the character interactions, and seeing how they craved the same closeness to God.
A contemporary setting is usually one of my least favorite things to read, but I never minded it while I read this book.
The only major problem I have with the book is that most of the events of the book took place over a very short period of time (most of it takes place in less than a week). It seems like way too much is happening, for it to have been in only around 4 days, though it would have all fit in well with a longer period of time.
Though this is also probably related to me never being one to believe in love at first sight, so I thought it was just a bit ridiculous that they fell for each other in that length of time.
Overall, it's a good book and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who thinks that the description sounds interesting because it definitely lived up to my expectations (and probably surpassed them).
May 22, 2008
Whatever the religion, it’s tough to be a “PK.” Zora’s father, bishop of the “Light of Life Christian Center,” expects that his only child will go to the right schools, work at the right jobs and marry the right person. As an incentive to follow his plan, Zora lives the life of a Black American Princess – Prada clothes, Kate Spade handbags and a brand-new Lexus to drive. Amid the opulence of her life and her father’s church, Zora misses her grandfather’s country church filled with the old hymns; she misses God.
Nicky wants to be a writer, and left home to attend Berkeley with that goal in mind. Nicky’s father, a well-known preacher with political goals, wants him to be a preacher, too. Conflicts arise because Nicky doesn’t view life or religion the way his racist father does.
Zora and Nicky are polar opposites, but both are looking for a connection to God that they aren’t finding in their home churches. They find each other in a home-run Bible study group and the fireworks begin.
Burney could have written a surface book, but she instead digs below “will Nicky and Zora find love,” ranging from the very-personal realms of upbringing and expectations and into public perception and pressure. An excellent read.
Nicky wants to be a writer, and left home to attend Berkeley with that goal in mind. Nicky’s father, a well-known preacher with political goals, wants him to be a preacher, too. Conflicts arise because Nicky doesn’t view life or religion the way his racist father does.
Zora and Nicky are polar opposites, but both are looking for a connection to God that they aren’t finding in their home churches. They find each other in a home-run Bible study group and the fireworks begin.
Burney could have written a surface book, but she instead digs below “will Nicky and Zora find love,” ranging from the very-personal realms of upbringing and expectations and into public perception and pressure. An excellent read.
August 5, 2017
This book reached out and grabbed me in the first page with the beauty of the language and kept ahold of me as the story unfolded through the last page. It dealt with very harsh and ugly topics (racism in particular) in a way that I understood the pain and could understand what was being experienced by all of the characters in the story but I never wanted to walk away. No one was living life 'just right' but had things to learn/change.
When the story finished, I wanted to start right back at the beginning and read it again because it was so rich. Do not miss this amazing story! I must check out other books by this author as well. If they are half as good, I will be hooked for life.
UPDATE 4/4/17: I really liked this story but am not sure if I would call it a 'clean read' even though it is a Christian book. There was quite a bit of sexual-related discussion in the story. It was always important to the story (can't go into details because it would be spoilers) but some reviewers found it offensive.
When the story finished, I wanted to start right back at the beginning and read it again because it was so rich. Do not miss this amazing story! I must check out other books by this author as well. If they are half as good, I will be hooked for life.
UPDATE 4/4/17: I really liked this story but am not sure if I would call it a 'clean read' even though it is a Christian book. There was quite a bit of sexual-related discussion in the story. It was always important to the story (can't go into details because it would be spoilers) but some reviewers found it offensive.
February 17, 2013
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it ended. It's a truly beautiful, if "beautiful" is the right word for something difficult but important, exploration of the (often subconscious) racism which exists in all of us, as well as portrait of what genuine faith looks like in spite of our predjudices. Burney has managed to present that rarest of rare things in contemporary Christian fiction: a book without oversimplifications and religious platitudes masquerading as good storytelling. Burney can write well and she understands the art of storytelling. She doesn't provide us with all the answers, and thank God for that!
June 11, 2009
I loved this quick read! It is your typical love story of two lovers who shouldn't be together because of some ridiculous reason, which in this particular story is race. The author Claudia Burney, does a great job of boldly talking about the age old stereotypes that have fully integrated into American society. There is no original thought given to the historical arguments of race and race mixing, but it gives an interesting perspective of the church acceptance or lack of acceptance on matters of race. It's a corny read, but well worth it if your looking for a good love story!
May 18, 2010
I enjoyed this book because I had no expectations. I thought it would be a typical IR romance, however, it was sweet and refreshing. It is a Christian IR novel so you are not going to get any sex or graphic language. You get a lot of people trying to find themselves and understand their Faith in the midst of racism, forgiveness and unexpected love. You have sinners you love and some you cannot bond with, however, it's real life. This is a good story if you are looking for a sweet Christian novel.
January 2, 2010
I had no idea what to expect when I picked Zora and Nicky off of the shelf at the library. This novel turned out to be a good story. It definitely ranks as one of the best books that I have read on the subject of interracial relationships.
I found myself going through a lot of different emotions as the relationship between Zora and Nicky developed. Their common bond is the fact that both of them are PK's (pastor's kids). How they meet and develop their relationship is worth taking the time to read this book.
I found myself going through a lot of different emotions as the relationship between Zora and Nicky developed. Their common bond is the fact that both of them are PK's (pastor's kids). How they meet and develop their relationship is worth taking the time to read this book.
February 9, 2013
This is the first book in a long time as well as in Christian fiction books that has made me laugh and kept me on my toes and wanting to turn the pages one after the other. The attraction that is described between Nicky and Zora and the way they act and talk to each other and just everything is the same as my husband and I and just reminds me of us. It also got me thinking about my own life, my faith, and my relationship with my Heavenly Father..Just awesome it made me smile, laugh cry, think and everything, I hope that God continues to use her and guide her. Thank you!
May 25, 2013
I do not read Christian fiction. It smacks too much like hypocrisy on my part. What could a sinner like me get from this book. Well let me tell you . I have been going to church lately, trying to reconcile living a life according to God in love and mercy and compassion with being what I percieve myself to be, somewhat flawed and stll trying to find my way. It took a Black American Princess named Zora and a self confessed reformed player/sensitive poet named Nicky to see that God loves me even with all my flaws and sins and he will continue to love me
May 11, 2013
This book truly reflects our shortfalls and the love of Christ that He shows us through relationships with others. It shows our brokenness and the need for a Savior that we can lean on instead of on ourselves. THis book shows that we all live with racism and other preconceived ideas of others that can never be healed until we are ready to even have the discussion. I truly enjoyed this romance of Christ and how he is shown by example through others.
December 8, 2010
I love this book, it moved me in ways I didn't know a book could. I laughed and I cried and I mean like a baby. It was beautiful love story between two people who are lost and God finds and makes whole again by bringing them to one another. I loved all the characters in this book and it is not be missed, you will be changed in a wonderful way by it.
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