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Pure Passions #1
Lust
Grace begins where human efforts fail.
Noémi Casson has booked herself on a sexual healing retreat after struggling in silence for seven years. It was just a matter of time before she gave in to the demons that have plagued her almost her whole life, and wholeness seems unattainable.
David Steel is living the perfect life, now that he’s sworn off women. Hard work and long hours are all the companion he needs—until Noémi comes crashing into his life and disturbs his steady equilibrium.
David is convinced that his love is all the healing Noémi needs.
Noémi is convinced that David must be delusional.
As Noémi allows God to work on her, she begins to see herself and her problems in a new light. But just when all seems to be going well the unthinkable happens, and Noémi doesn’t know whether to focus on saving her relationship with David or saving herself. Will she learn to trust God’s purpose, or will she give in to the temptation to do things her own way?
Noémi Casson has booked herself on a sexual healing retreat after struggling in silence for seven years. It was just a matter of time before she gave in to the demons that have plagued her almost her whole life, and wholeness seems unattainable.
David Steel is living the perfect life, now that he’s sworn off women. Hard work and long hours are all the companion he needs—until Noémi comes crashing into his life and disturbs his steady equilibrium.
David is convinced that his love is all the healing Noémi needs.
Noémi is convinced that David must be delusional.
As Noémi allows God to work on her, she begins to see herself and her problems in a new light. But just when all seems to be going well the unthinkable happens, and Noémi doesn’t know whether to focus on saving her relationship with David or saving herself. Will she learn to trust God’s purpose, or will she give in to the temptation to do things her own way?
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
61 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Dayo Benson
70 books125 followersDayo Benson is passionate about using fiction to convey powerful messages about redemption and God's love. When she is not writing she enjoys music, reading and going for long walks. She lives in North West England with her husband and their two beautiful daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 29, 2014
I kept seeing this book listed in free romance and other categories. I couldn't see how a book titled Lust could be in any of the Christian categories, but it was. The description didn't help all that much, either. Finally, after weeks (maybe months) of seeing this book, I thought, "Fine, it's free, I'll give it a try." And I'm so glad I did, because now I can recommend this book to others. Neither the title nor the description do this book justice.
If Lust had turned out to be just another romance, I'd probably not even be writing this review. But I want potential readers to understand there's a lot more to this story than JUST the romance. In the author's words, the book encourages waiting, "whether it's an answer to prayer, a life partner, or simply for a dream to come true."
There are some weighty topics in the book (i.e., sexual abuse/child molestation, premarital sex and alcohol as self-medication, self-mutilation, etc.), but the underlying story is one that may help many readers dealing with some of these issues. If you're dealing with any of these, I strongly encourage you to read this book. Noemi's journey from self-hatred to acceptance of God's unconditional love is a difficult one, but one she has to make.
The only reason I'm not giving the book 5 stars is that I did get frustrated at times with the fact that David and Noemi often just assume they know what the other one is thinking or feeling, and they don't actually talk to one another. The same can be said of some of the other characters. Admittedly, there's a lesson in that, as well, but it's not really addressed, so I'm not certain the author intended that.
One further lesson is in not judging others without knowing the truth. Anna, Brenda, Poppy, Kerine and others were all dealing with something in their own past, but it takes Noemi a while to realize that.
This was, overall, a good, strong read, and a story that many people need to read. Don't let the title and description fool you, as it did me for months.
If Lust had turned out to be just another romance, I'd probably not even be writing this review. But I want potential readers to understand there's a lot more to this story than JUST the romance. In the author's words, the book encourages waiting, "whether it's an answer to prayer, a life partner, or simply for a dream to come true."
There are some weighty topics in the book (i.e., sexual abuse/child molestation, premarital sex and alcohol as self-medication, self-mutilation, etc.), but the underlying story is one that may help many readers dealing with some of these issues. If you're dealing with any of these, I strongly encourage you to read this book. Noemi's journey from self-hatred to acceptance of God's unconditional love is a difficult one, but one she has to make.
The only reason I'm not giving the book 5 stars is that I did get frustrated at times with the fact that David and Noemi often just assume they know what the other one is thinking or feeling, and they don't actually talk to one another. The same can be said of some of the other characters. Admittedly, there's a lesson in that, as well, but it's not really addressed, so I'm not certain the author intended that.
One further lesson is in not judging others without knowing the truth. Anna, Brenda, Poppy, Kerine and others were all dealing with something in their own past, but it takes Noemi a while to realize that.
This was, overall, a good, strong read, and a story that many people need to read. Don't let the title and description fool you, as it did me for months.
September 14, 2015
The title of the book is rather deceptive--to me anyway. It's not a page-by-page book gushing about sexual adventures or anything. Part of the story focuses on a sexually abused woman named Noemi who is struggling to accept her past, overcome the pain and guilt she feels, and learn that she is still valued and loved by God and her true friends. The other part of the story zeroes in on a widower named Dr. David Steel who has a painful past of his own--his wife was not who he thought she was. And she died in the arms of another man. David and Noemi meet at a retreat...both broken and both in need of much healing.
It seems that with every step forward, Noemi ends up taking two steps back. But I think that's a fairly common feeling when your past is riddled with abuse, distrust, and self-loathing.
It's a lovely story that will make you feel the emotions for both of them.
It seems that with every step forward, Noemi ends up taking two steps back. But I think that's a fairly common feeling when your past is riddled with abuse, distrust, and self-loathing.
It's a lovely story that will make you feel the emotions for both of them.
July 11, 2016
Title is deceiving. Good book. Page turner!
August 11, 2022
Wonderful edgy Christian romance/women's fiction novel.
This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last.
Wow! I'm a huge lover of Christian fiction which doesn't hold any punches, and this, dear reader, goes for the throat. It's edgy, discussing lust, sexual abuse and the real troubles anyone - even Christians - can face in regards to purity, and the redemptive power of our Saviour.
Ms Benson delves into some serious and oftentimes taboo conversations Christians tend to whisper about. 😉 I appreciated her fresh approach to how people deal with sexual sin, the difficulties of trying to overcome stuff in our own strength, and 'keeping it real'.
I felt such compassion for Noemi even when she lashed out or did crazy stuff. Despite many pulpits preaching grace, walking in love, and patience, a lot of Christians seem to lack all three when it comes to "troublemakers". We'd impact more people for Christ if we gifted others with more compassion and less whispered judgement (just sayin' 😉).
Note to readers: this might be best for 18+ readers due to the gritty, open discussion about the aforementioned topics.
This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last.
Wow! I'm a huge lover of Christian fiction which doesn't hold any punches, and this, dear reader, goes for the throat. It's edgy, discussing lust, sexual abuse and the real troubles anyone - even Christians - can face in regards to purity, and the redemptive power of our Saviour.
Ms Benson delves into some serious and oftentimes taboo conversations Christians tend to whisper about. 😉 I appreciated her fresh approach to how people deal with sexual sin, the difficulties of trying to overcome stuff in our own strength, and 'keeping it real'.
I felt such compassion for Noemi even when she lashed out or did crazy stuff. Despite many pulpits preaching grace, walking in love, and patience, a lot of Christians seem to lack all three when it comes to "troublemakers". We'd impact more people for Christ if we gifted others with more compassion and less whispered judgement (just sayin' 😉).
Note to readers: this might be best for 18+ readers due to the gritty, open discussion about the aforementioned topics.
September 10, 2022
I liked this book but I had some problems with it. Noémi irritated me so much. I more than understand what she went through, it was horrible and she had issues with guys after that, also understandable, but her self pity was too much, like all the time. She was pushing him to her and pushing him away, all the time, it was like a freakung yoyo. He didn't deserve that, he was the one that tried time and timw again, and again I understand why she was the way she was, but still, it was too much. David wasn't perfect, but God, he was such a good man that just wanted her to fight for him, and she never did. I liked them together, they complemented each other but I would have liked to see some effort form her, there wasn't any
August 30, 2018
This was the first book I read from Dayo Benson and it literally pushed me to look for more from her and even contact her. At first I was a bit intrigued by the title of the book and didn't know what to expect but it wasn't what I was expecting. I love a good romance novel , it has it. I love Christian fiction , you get it all here too. The perfect blend that keeps you glued.
November 7, 2020
¡Wow!
Amaze by the story I just read. Truly in awe of the love of the Father felt by reading this novel. So page turner and ultra similar to life.
Amaze by the story I just read. Truly in awe of the love of the Father felt by reading this novel. So page turner and ultra similar to life.
December 14, 2016
This was a very good book how ever I do wish the author had done more to make it more interesting. I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
December 19, 2019
Beautifully Written, I just loved this book. I lived in each moment. Love, Love this Noemi character. God can and will definitely use you in so many ways so long as we trust and believe despite our circumstances. In the end God works things out for our good. Beautiful Dayo, Love it. Listen lady, you may not reach out to 1 million or even 1 thousand persons through your books but if one (1) person finds gospel of Jesus Christ, finds God, freedom, through your book it is a job well done. The Glory belongs to God alone and you do some powerful writing. stay motivated.
October 6, 2016
Lust
An Absolutely wonderful story. The research and details, the emotion, fast paced. I highly recommend that everyone read this book. You will not forget it. The information it contains could make you more aware, and could possible help someone in your own life that you may know. I look forward to reading more of your books. You have a gift from God on how to express yourself. Many people will benefit from this book. Kattie 10/06/2016.
An Absolutely wonderful story. The research and details, the emotion, fast paced. I highly recommend that everyone read this book. You will not forget it. The information it contains could make you more aware, and could possible help someone in your own life that you may know. I look forward to reading more of your books. You have a gift from God on how to express yourself. Many people will benefit from this book. Kattie 10/06/2016.
July 17, 2014
Really liked this one
Really liked this one
The story had some difficult plot lines and theme. Just enough twists to keep it interesting, and not contrived. I think the author captured the underlying theme brilliantly. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Really liked this one
The story had some difficult plot lines and theme. Just enough twists to keep it interesting, and not contrived. I think the author captured the underlying theme brilliantly. I look forward to reading more in this series.
April 11, 2016
Proof that God is in control .
Good read. Letting God lead us is tough and we fail each time we take it upon ourselves to take charge. This story was a good example of how God continues His plan and if we just take the time and listen for is guidance and wisdom everything will come together four good.
Good read. Letting God lead us is tough and we fail each time we take it upon ourselves to take charge. This story was a good example of how God continues His plan and if we just take the time and listen for is guidance and wisdom everything will come together four good.
September 2, 2016
I read this novel in almost no time flat! The main character, Noeme, struggled with the issue of sexual purity, and ultimately reached the position of both being forgiven and something "more". (Don't want to give anything away. I think it is a wonderful picture of forgiveness, and God's Amazing Grace!
August 12, 2014
Ok Where do I start. I love Christian books but there is such a thing as to much. I know people like that so I was not able to connect with the main characters. I fully understand that God comes first but there is a time when we have to be able to just get over ourselves.
June 17, 2015
great story!!!
while this is not a genre that I read very often, I completely love this book, it's characters face some real life tough situations and encourages the reader to look to a higher power than themselves
while this is not a genre that I read very often, I completely love this book, it's characters face some real life tough situations and encourages the reader to look to a higher power than themselves
August 10, 2015
Awesome
What a great story of love, betrayal, God's love, patience and true forgiveness. The author made it so clear that no matter what we've done GOD is the one who makes us whole and complete.
What a great story of love, betrayal, God's love, patience and true forgiveness. The author made it so clear that no matter what we've done GOD is the one who makes us whole and complete.
October 19, 2015
Don't let title fool you.
This book was a good clean Romance that had a wonderful inspirational message to it. If anyone has been sexually abused this book shows how God can change lives if one were to let Him.
This book was a good clean Romance that had a wonderful inspirational message to it. If anyone has been sexually abused this book shows how God can change lives if one were to let Him.
December 1, 2015
Dayo Benson is definitely a force to be reckoned with in the world of writing... "Lust" was one book I couldn't put down until I read it to the end. She keeps you enthralled and positively mesmerised.
January 25, 2016
Beautiful story of forgiveness
I only wish I had read this book 40 years ago! While I wasn't a victim of abuse, I identified with Noemi & struggles of not being "worthy"! Anyone with these feelings can I identify with her Story!
I only wish I had read this book 40 years ago! While I wasn't a victim of abuse, I identified with Noemi & struggles of not being "worthy"! Anyone with these feelings can I identify with her Story!
April 11, 2023
Such a Great Book!
I loved this book! It reminded me of the story Hosea in the Bible. She felt she wasn’t good enough. She kept pushing him away. He loved her and kept trying to love her past away. A book of forgiveness and forever love.
I loved this book! It reminded me of the story Hosea in the Bible. She felt she wasn’t good enough. She kept pushing him away. He loved her and kept trying to love her past away. A book of forgiveness and forever love.
August 18, 2014
Is a great book to read
November 14, 2015
Excellent story about a woman struggling to fully accept God's love after suffering from abuse as a child.
August 5, 2015
Great read!
August 5, 2017
Book 1 of 4
*Good read!
*Good read!
April 22, 2016
Awesome read!
Very uplifting novel. I have been blessed with every turn of the page. I relate hugely with your characters. May God continue to use you
Very uplifting novel. I have been blessed with every turn of the page. I relate hugely with your characters. May God continue to use you
January 9, 2017
Would recommend
Amazing book. Spot on and a bit close to home for me which was needed. Loved it. Thank God for leading me to this one.
Amazing book. Spot on and a bit close to home for me which was needed. Loved it. Thank God for leading me to this one.
August 23, 2019
Great Christian read. Kept me interested and intrigued. Reading all her books!!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews