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April's Promise
Emmaleen Kimball is fourteen when she becomes convinced she was born to traveling acrobats and left on her parents’ doorstep. Why else would there be a thirteen-year age gap between her and her closest sibling? When her family won’t tell her the truth about her origins, she’s determined to solve the mystery herself.
Bernadette Kimball is twenty-seven and living back at home to help with a family crisis, but she can’t wait to get back to her career in the city. She doesn’t fit in with her family. Not that she cares. Who needs a family? Families are just one big mess of secrets and lies.
April Kimball-Madden carries the burden of a secret she promised never to reveal. She wishes she could tell Emmaleen the truth. But she’s convinced that if her husband Joey ever finds out who Emmaleen’s biological parents are, her marriage won’t survive.
As a world war wages across the globe, the Kimball family faces a different kind of conflict at home. Will their personal battles drag them down and tear their family apart? Or can the faith they’ve been taught, and the mercy they’re shown, lead them to victory?
Bernadette Kimball is twenty-seven and living back at home to help with a family crisis, but she can’t wait to get back to her career in the city. She doesn’t fit in with her family. Not that she cares. Who needs a family? Families are just one big mess of secrets and lies.
April Kimball-Madden carries the burden of a secret she promised never to reveal. She wishes she could tell Emmaleen the truth. But she’s convinced that if her husband Joey ever finds out who Emmaleen’s biological parents are, her marriage won’t survive.
As a world war wages across the globe, the Kimball family faces a different kind of conflict at home. Will their personal battles drag them down and tear their family apart? Or can the faith they’ve been taught, and the mercy they’re shown, lead them to victory?
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2023
About the author
Terrie Todd
14 books225 followersTerrie Todd’s historical novels have won numerous Word Guild Awards, the Braun Book Award, and the Debra Fieguth Social Justice Award. She’s the recipient of the 2018 Janette Oak award from Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship and was a 2023 finalist in the ACFW Carol Awards. She’s also a frequent contributor to Guideposts Books. Terrie lives with her husband, Jon, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada, where they raised their three children. They are grandparents to five boys. When she’s not writing, Terrie can be found reading, gardening, baking, or helping her community theatre group. You can follow her at www.terrietodd.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 28, 2023
I couldn't stop turning the pages of this compelling story! A young girl's innocence is damaged, and when the man makes a threat against her sister to keep her quiet, she makes a promise never to talk about it. This big secret and the consequent decisions made, lead to years of division, pain, shame, heartbreak, anger and feelings of betrayal. "A gigantic secret festered at the heart of my marriage, of my life. I was a liar. So were both of my parents." Having a loving pastor and his wife in their lives make a big difference all along, and especially when things come to a head.
"I supposed Pastor Wellington was right. I probably should spend some time figuring out what I believed, and either be all in or all out."
"I'd never let my woes draw me closer to God in the past. Instead, I'd chosen to turn from him, convinced he no longer wanted anything to do with me-regardless of what Reverend and Dolly Wellington said about his grace and mercy. I closed my eyes, and with my lips moving, prayed a silent prayer."
With God's help, good can come from evil, and that lesson is beautifully shown in April's Promise.
I recommend this story for lovers of Christian fiction and compelling stories.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
"I supposed Pastor Wellington was right. I probably should spend some time figuring out what I believed, and either be all in or all out."
"I'd never let my woes draw me closer to God in the past. Instead, I'd chosen to turn from him, convinced he no longer wanted anything to do with me-regardless of what Reverend and Dolly Wellington said about his grace and mercy. I closed my eyes, and with my lips moving, prayed a silent prayer."
With God's help, good can come from evil, and that lesson is beautifully shown in April's Promise.
I recommend this story for lovers of Christian fiction and compelling stories.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
August 28, 2023
Great story! This is a very well written book. It deals with sexual abuse and the effects of keeping everything secret. Back in the 20's and 30's, things were much different than they are today. Having a supportive pastor and wife were instrumental in helping the family. I highly recommend this bbok.
August 28, 2023
A great story of how a young girl’s innocence led to a huge problem with complications for her family.. but God’s redeeming love helps to solve even those terrible issues..
August 25, 2023
A beautifully written story handling an incredibly tough issue. Oldest sister April is assaulted and it takes her years to come to terms with the fact. She carries the shame and guilt of it, and hides the truth from those she yearns for support from. Though heart-wrenching at times, this story offers hope, character growth, and the joy of family love. I enjoyed the characters immensely and rejoiced in the precious ending.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this story. This review is my honest opinion.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this story. This review is my honest opinion.
September 1, 2023
I love the cover of April's Promise by Terrie Todd. However, it doesn't hold a candle to the beautiful story within.
An unexpected pregnancy. A family lie. A devastating illness. A sudden tragedy.
If you like heart-wrenching family dramas that deal with tough issues, with redemption and forgiveness breaking through, you will enjoy April's Promise.
April's Promise is told in the first-person perspective of the three sisters: April, Bernadette, and Emmaleen. It is interesting to see how the events of the story affect each of them differently.
I loved the story more than I thought I would. It was a quick read. I would say it's part coming of age, the loss of innocence, but also eye-opening. For me, as a parent, it was a reminder of conversations we need to have with our children to be sure they understand the ways of the world. It is also a story that is hard to review without giving spoilers.
Trigger warning: The author states: "The early part of this story includes one incident of sexual assault. There is also a brief reference to a suicide. I have attempted to handle both with utmost sensitivity and care. If these are difficult topics for you, I hope you will read through to the book’s triumphant conclusion and find some small measure of healing." I wholeheartedly agree with her. I would not usually read a book that I know has an instance of sexual assault, but we are given very few details.
An unexpected pregnancy. A family lie. A devastating illness. A sudden tragedy.
If you like heart-wrenching family dramas that deal with tough issues, with redemption and forgiveness breaking through, you will enjoy April's Promise.
April's Promise is told in the first-person perspective of the three sisters: April, Bernadette, and Emmaleen. It is interesting to see how the events of the story affect each of them differently.
I loved the story more than I thought I would. It was a quick read. I would say it's part coming of age, the loss of innocence, but also eye-opening. For me, as a parent, it was a reminder of conversations we need to have with our children to be sure they understand the ways of the world. It is also a story that is hard to review without giving spoilers.
Trigger warning: The author states: "The early part of this story includes one incident of sexual assault. There is also a brief reference to a suicide. I have attempted to handle both with utmost sensitivity and care. If these are difficult topics for you, I hope you will read through to the book’s triumphant conclusion and find some small measure of healing." I wholeheartedly agree with her. I would not usually read a book that I know has an instance of sexual assault, but we are given very few details.
October 1, 2023
5 stars - read via Kindle
I have a few of the author’s books but this was my first read for some reason—even though it’s her newest. I’ll be sure to read the others! I was thrilled to not only read a Canadian author, but one in my province.
I just finished reading this book moments ago with my balled up tissues in hand. All the emotions. Where to begin? Not only was the story one that I enjoyed, it also had some tough moments. There is a notice at the start of the book that there is an assault (not in any detail) but that she hopes that people would read on and see the hope, forgiveness, and God’s amazing grace at the end. And I’m here to stress that the book does just that. There is no excuse for the perpetrator but there is closure and growth. God is given the glory.
The book begins in 1929 and the other part takes place 14 years later. I enjoyed all the characters in the book and they were each clear and distinct to me in both their strengths and flaws. Yes, many bad decisions were made and the price was steep, scattered, and long. Times were different then but it’s not an excuse. The intentions were good, and made in order to protect people. BUT they were also made in pride, lack of all the information, and in short-sighted judgement. The old adage about the truth always coming out has survived the test of time because it is correct. The truth can be uncomfortable and ugly but it is still TRUTH. God’s Word is truth from cover to cover, even when man failed one another, and God especially, time and again.
Many times I wondered why NO ONE acknowledged that April was 14. Why did the parents immediately assume their “rule-following” daughter willingly slept with someone? Why did they assume paternity immediately? But would people today do anything differently? Maybe. But I suspect many would not. It is so important to talk to our children about boundaries, sex, and all of that, in ways that are appropriate for their age.
Predators intimidate, bully, threaten, and scare their victims into keeping silent. Silence plays a huge part in keeping predators from being discovered and prosecuted. Children need to feel safe and to tell a trusted adult when they’re scared or have been hurt, regardless of what their assailant told them. They HAVE to know that they absolutely need to tell someone and that it was NOT their fault.
The author didn’t shy away from the ugliness and pain. As the saying goes, “You can’t put lipstick on a pig.” She takes the reader through the anger, the hurt, and the confusion. We see God do an amazing work. The author doesn’t wrap it all up in a pretty bow and pronounce them healed. It’s a journey. It’s evident that their journey was helped by good Christian people that God worked through to help the family collectively as well as with each person individually. You feel their despair to your bones but then you see that hope abounds and healing begins.
I can’t recommend this book enough. Don’t let the topic dissuade you from reading it. I believe this story is important for those who have been through an assault as well as their supportive loved ones. I believe it’s important for all of us to know this story. While this may be a work of fiction, this is a reality that happens every day across the world. Truth and understanding are part of the path toward healing. This book has a very important message and the author handles it well. I strongly encourage everyone to read this book.
I have a few of the author’s books but this was my first read for some reason—even though it’s her newest. I’ll be sure to read the others! I was thrilled to not only read a Canadian author, but one in my province.
I just finished reading this book moments ago with my balled up tissues in hand. All the emotions. Where to begin? Not only was the story one that I enjoyed, it also had some tough moments. There is a notice at the start of the book that there is an assault (not in any detail) but that she hopes that people would read on and see the hope, forgiveness, and God’s amazing grace at the end. And I’m here to stress that the book does just that. There is no excuse for the perpetrator but there is closure and growth. God is given the glory.
The book begins in 1929 and the other part takes place 14 years later. I enjoyed all the characters in the book and they were each clear and distinct to me in both their strengths and flaws. Yes, many bad decisions were made and the price was steep, scattered, and long. Times were different then but it’s not an excuse. The intentions were good, and made in order to protect people. BUT they were also made in pride, lack of all the information, and in short-sighted judgement. The old adage about the truth always coming out has survived the test of time because it is correct. The truth can be uncomfortable and ugly but it is still TRUTH. God’s Word is truth from cover to cover, even when man failed one another, and God especially, time and again.
Many times I wondered why NO ONE acknowledged that April was 14. Why did the parents immediately assume their “rule-following” daughter willingly slept with someone? Why did they assume paternity immediately? But would people today do anything differently? Maybe. But I suspect many would not. It is so important to talk to our children about boundaries, sex, and all of that, in ways that are appropriate for their age.
Predators intimidate, bully, threaten, and scare their victims into keeping silent. Silence plays a huge part in keeping predators from being discovered and prosecuted. Children need to feel safe and to tell a trusted adult when they’re scared or have been hurt, regardless of what their assailant told them. They HAVE to know that they absolutely need to tell someone and that it was NOT their fault.
The author didn’t shy away from the ugliness and pain. As the saying goes, “You can’t put lipstick on a pig.” She takes the reader through the anger, the hurt, and the confusion. We see God do an amazing work. The author doesn’t wrap it all up in a pretty bow and pronounce them healed. It’s a journey. It’s evident that their journey was helped by good Christian people that God worked through to help the family collectively as well as with each person individually. You feel their despair to your bones but then you see that hope abounds and healing begins.
I can’t recommend this book enough. Don’t let the topic dissuade you from reading it. I believe this story is important for those who have been through an assault as well as their supportive loved ones. I believe it’s important for all of us to know this story. While this may be a work of fiction, this is a reality that happens every day across the world. Truth and understanding are part of the path toward healing. This book has a very important message and the author handles it well. I strongly encourage everyone to read this book.
September 8, 2023
Terrie Todd’s engaging novel “April’s Promise” explores the impact that secrets can have on a family. I could not turn the pages quickly enough to find out how the promise April made to keep a secret when was a young teen would play out in her life and her family’s. Trust and God’s love are themes integrated throughout the story.
“April’s Promise” is perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction that incorporates a Christian message. Also, the story provides the opportunity to learn more about Canada and its involvement in World War II. Thank you to the author and the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
“April’s Promise” is perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction that incorporates a Christian message. Also, the story provides the opportunity to learn more about Canada and its involvement in World War II. Thank you to the author and the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
September 6, 2023
The love, messiness, and forgiveness of family and life…tough issues and situations. I loved this book and the people portrayed in it! Family secrets and pride that hold us in prisons of our own making and the freedom when we finally confess and bring what was hidden into the light. The healing and hope that comes from confession and forgiveness. Terrie writes the story from the different perspectives of those involved and weaves their stories together. She is an amazing author and this book is another must read from her!
September 4, 2023
I enjoyed how Terrie told this story through the voices of three very different and complex women. The essence of the book underlines the deeply destructive nature of hidden lies and even those lies that seem like the best decision at the time find ways to fester and hang a cloud over family. Through her well crafted dialogue and plot lines, Terrie brings each character (and us!) out of this dark place into a loving space of forgiveness and peace. Well done.
September 18, 2023
Another stellar novel by Terrie Todd. This one involves keeping a secret and telling fibs to protect the innocence of a child and a family reputation. When the secret is revealed the family must come to grips with the past, to offer forgiveness and to realize that God makes good of our mistakes. If not for this, then there wouldn't be that. There is a whole lot of faith and bible telling in this novel, which is what I like most.
September 20, 2023
Terrie Todd has a way of creating a unique story with true to life characters and weaving them together into a powerful demonstration of God’s redemption and grace. This book was hard to put down, and I will never forget April and the far reaching effects a single moment in time had on her and her entire family. The ending was especially compelling and could not have concluded in a better way. I look forward to more great things from Terrie Todd.
September 23, 2023
This is a captivating story. It has a compelling plot, endearing characters, and colorful glimpses of life in war-time Canada—all things we’ve come to expect from Terrie. But the highlight of this story for me was being the little fly on the wall, watching as the healing process took root and slowly began to unfold. It took love, grace, communication and a bit of gentle guidance, but the wounded found their way to forgiveness. Beautifully written.
August 6, 2026
April's Promise was my first book by Terrie Todd, and it certainly won't be my last. She tells a beautifully written, emotionally compelling story that tackles an incredibly difficult issue with compassion, grace, and hope. I quickly became invested in the characters and found it hard to put the book down. If you enjoy heartfelt historical fiction with strong themes of faith, forgiveness, and redemption, this is a book well worth reading.
October 23, 2023
Can I give 10 stars?
Wow…just wow! Terrie Todd has written another winner of a book. She is one of my favorite authors and April’s Promise will now be one of my all time favorite books. What a blessing to read a Christian historical fiction that goes deep into sensitive, hard issues and deep into what it looks like to trust God in those hard times! A blessing of a book!
Wow…just wow! Terrie Todd has written another winner of a book. She is one of my favorite authors and April’s Promise will now be one of my all time favorite books. What a blessing to read a Christian historical fiction that goes deep into sensitive, hard issues and deep into what it looks like to trust God in those hard times! A blessing of a book!
May 19, 2024
Wow! So many surprises
Terrie Todd captured the mind set of the time period and the lengths people would go to in order to cover up out of wedlock pregnancies. She sprinkled just the right amount of Canadian depression and WWII history to keep readers firmly in the setting as characters struggle with their lies and how it affects others. Todd is a skilled storyteller.
Terrie Todd captured the mind set of the time period and the lengths people would go to in order to cover up out of wedlock pregnancies. She sprinkled just the right amount of Canadian depression and WWII history to keep readers firmly in the setting as characters struggle with their lies and how it affects others. Todd is a skilled storyteller.
January 7, 2026
One of my favourite aspects of Terrie Todd's writing is her ability to weave different timelines together throughout a book, highlighting the perspectives of different characters and seamlessly connecting them. She deals with difficult topics in sensitive ways and shows us the healing power of forgiveness.
September 7, 2023
Terrie Todd’s newest book “April’s Promise” is another compelling read! It gives a sensitive handling to the relevant topic of sexual abuse and its aftermath with the ultimate victory of God’s grace over man’s failings. I highly recommend it!
December 18, 2023
A compelling story, had me reading at all hours to know the outcome. I like how the way the family works through the past deceits in order to heal. We all know of families where pride and secrets do damage to generations, when the truth and God's grace could set them free.
April 10, 2024
Hard topic..
This book kept me reading, but I found the styles bit hard to follow in places. The topic of the rape of a teenager was handled well without graphic details, but the issue a tough one that was very important to read.
This book kept me reading, but I found the styles bit hard to follow in places. The topic of the rape of a teenager was handled well without graphic details, but the issue a tough one that was very important to read.
May 16, 2026
This was a hard hitting, yet beautiful story. We see the damage that lies and secrets can do to a family but we also see the theme of forgiveness woven throughout.
This one hit too close to home for me.
This one hit too close to home for me.
August 23, 2023
A story of how secrets can confuse and complicate family relationships. Why truth should always be told and the healing of forgiveness.
September 24, 2023
April's Promise - I didn't want to put it down - so I didn't. A well-crafted story of a mistake, of secrets and forgiveness. Well worth the read. Well done Terrie.
December 28, 2023
You’ll want to know what happens to these characters
March 9, 2024
Every single book I read is a 5 star! I always think, oh, this is the best one yet. Honestly, they're all great! Loved this one, too.
May 31, 2024
Secrets are never a good thing, especially within a family. Everything should be open and acknowledged.
September 5, 2023
This latest book by Terrie Todd tackles several sensitive topics with compassion and wisdom. When shame and guilt force a family to cover up a secret, the ripple effect will be felt across several generations. This book had me wanting to read just one more chapter. Terrie’s story shows that with God’s love and mercy, a family can experience healing and forgiveness.
September 19, 2023
A moving story
I am very impressed with how some very sensitive subjects were handled in this story.
I could relate to being uneducated on relationships between boys and girls, because it is so sensitive.
Thank you Terri Todd for writing this amazing and touching story.
I highly recommend it.
I am very impressed with how some very sensitive subjects were handled in this story.
I could relate to being uneducated on relationships between boys and girls, because it is so sensitive.
Thank you Terri Todd for writing this amazing and touching story.
I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews