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A Path to Healing
Scarred. Blemished. Unwanted. These were all words that could describe Bethany. Since an accident disfigured the right side of her face, severing the betrothal to the man she loved, Bethany knew that no one would ever find her beautiful. When her mother insists she marries the only man willing to take her as a wife, Bethany begrudgingly agrees. Yet, the more she discovers about her new husband, the more she realizes that some scars are hidden deep within.
After becoming a champion gladiator to purchase his mother’s freedom, Ezra wished to live a quiet life as a shepherd. When he hires a troubled woman with a veiled face to assist him with his flock, he’s surprised to find himself drawn to discover the woman beneath the mask. After a hasty marriage, Ezra vows to do everything he must to spare his wife from harm. But will her thirst for revenge against the dark forces that plague their homeland and his desperate need to protect his family tear them apart?
Discover the story of a blemished woman in A Path to Healing.
This Christian Fantasy novel can be read as a stand-alone novel or as part of The Prodigal Woman Series.
After becoming a champion gladiator to purchase his mother’s freedom, Ezra wished to live a quiet life as a shepherd. When he hires a troubled woman with a veiled face to assist him with his flock, he’s surprised to find himself drawn to discover the woman beneath the mask. After a hasty marriage, Ezra vows to do everything he must to spare his wife from harm. But will her thirst for revenge against the dark forces that plague their homeland and his desperate need to protect his family tear them apart?
Discover the story of a blemished woman in A Path to Healing.
This Christian Fantasy novel can be read as a stand-alone novel or as part of The Prodigal Woman Series.
- GenresChristian Fiction
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
48 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Lisa M. James
10 books239 followersLisa M. James is an independent author, marketer, and former Sunday School teacher. She loves writing fantasy novels featuring women of color for both young adult and adult audiences. Her novels have hit the Amazon Best Sellers list for numerous Fantasy categories, including: Sword and Sorcery Fantasy, Christian Fantasy, and Religious Science Fiction and Fantasy. Her fictional writing is inspired by Historical Fiction, Fantasy genres, and Christian novels. When not writing, Lisa loves talking about her faith, Disney movies, and football while drinking chai lattes. To keep up with her latest releases, subscribe to www.lisamjames.com.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 10, 2024
Healing never comes easy....
I've been following the Prodigal Woman series since the first book and I've gotten invested in the characters lives. Gradually they have come to feel a bit like old friends. In A Path To Healing it's Bethany's turn to find hope and, in good fantasy fashion, battle the Shadowclans with her axes. Her hero Ezra has his own battles to fight both internally and with weapons. And trust me, Lisa M. James rarely gives her characters a moment to breathe.
One of the things that I have found fairly unique about the Prodigal Woman series is that author Lisa M. James covered roughly the same time period in each one and, of course, A Path To Healing has been no exception. It has been both fun and interesting to see the war with the Shadowclans through the eyes of three very different couples who each have an important part to play. I've loved getting to see the same events through two and even three of the characters' eyes and experiences.
It's hard to believe that A Path To Healing is the final Prodigal Woman novel. Lisa M. James has kept me intrigued by her fantasy worldbuilding that enhances these stories of redemption and faith. Each book has been entertaining but they also make you ponder and that, I think, has been a good thing....
(I received s copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I've been following the Prodigal Woman series since the first book and I've gotten invested in the characters lives. Gradually they have come to feel a bit like old friends. In A Path To Healing it's Bethany's turn to find hope and, in good fantasy fashion, battle the Shadowclans with her axes. Her hero Ezra has his own battles to fight both internally and with weapons. And trust me, Lisa M. James rarely gives her characters a moment to breathe.
One of the things that I have found fairly unique about the Prodigal Woman series is that author Lisa M. James covered roughly the same time period in each one and, of course, A Path To Healing has been no exception. It has been both fun and interesting to see the war with the Shadowclans through the eyes of three very different couples who each have an important part to play. I've loved getting to see the same events through two and even three of the characters' eyes and experiences.
It's hard to believe that A Path To Healing is the final Prodigal Woman novel. Lisa M. James has kept me intrigued by her fantasy worldbuilding that enhances these stories of redemption and faith. Each book has been entertaining but they also make you ponder and that, I think, has been a good thing....
(I received s copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
August 20, 2025
Healing
I really was drawn into this story. The characters were amazing and the story moved along and was believable. I am recommending it to all my friends. l can't wait to read another book in the series.
I really was drawn into this story. The characters were amazing and the story moved along and was believable. I am recommending it to all my friends. l can't wait to read another book in the series.
November 1, 2024
A Path to Healing is the third book in The Prodigal Woman series. I had not personally read the previous books in the series, but I found that I was able to enjoy and understand this story just fine as a standalone.
Admittedly, fantasy is not a genre that I am typically drawn to, so between that and coming in at the third book, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this one. I was actually very pleasantly surprised. I was quickly drawn into this world that the author had created--- and more importantly, these characters. Ezra and Bethany were both such compelling characters who had been through a lot in their lives. They had their flaws, of course, but that only made me appreciate their strength and courage all that much more. I loved seeing her let her guard down and his patience with her in doing so throughout the story. They truly had such a beautiful relationship that I really enjoyed. Likewise, there were many side characters who were equally compelling and made the story that much better. I find myself looking forward to going back to the previous books in the series to learn more about this world too. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, this is certainly one to check out.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Admittedly, fantasy is not a genre that I am typically drawn to, so between that and coming in at the third book, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this one. I was actually very pleasantly surprised. I was quickly drawn into this world that the author had created--- and more importantly, these characters. Ezra and Bethany were both such compelling characters who had been through a lot in their lives. They had their flaws, of course, but that only made me appreciate their strength and courage all that much more. I loved seeing her let her guard down and his patience with her in doing so throughout the story. They truly had such a beautiful relationship that I really enjoyed. Likewise, there were many side characters who were equally compelling and made the story that much better. I find myself looking forward to going back to the previous books in the series to learn more about this world too. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, this is certainly one to check out.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 7, 2024
When Ezra settles down to lead a quiet life after working hard as a gladiator, his new vocation puts him in contact with Bethany, a young woman who hides her scars behind a veil. I loved how they get to know one another and move past outward appearances. I haven't read the previous books, but I look forward to reading them after enjoying "A Path to Healing"! The characters and story line are well written. I loved the theme of healing. I enjoyed this wonderful, well written story!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
November 4, 2024
no words <3
Loved this book from beginning to end! The main storyline, the characters, the trials really emphasize so many things we need to learn. Great Christian themes with spiritual/life lessons mixed in. I binged the series too and it did not disappoint. It got me out of my reading slump too! Just wow.
Loved this book from beginning to end! The main storyline, the characters, the trials really emphasize so many things we need to learn. Great Christian themes with spiritual/life lessons mixed in. I binged the series too and it did not disappoint. It got me out of my reading slump too! Just wow.
September 11, 2025
Fantastic Read
Once I started I couldn't stop, definately a page turner. The story drew me in so much I actually dreamt about it. You know how you read a book and your so lost in it , curious to know what's happening next , yet the story to end. Well that's exactly what this story gives!! Love it!!
Once I started I couldn't stop, definately a page turner. The story drew me in so much I actually dreamt about it. You know how you read a book and your so lost in it , curious to know what's happening next , yet the story to end. Well that's exactly what this story gives!! Love it!!
June 7, 2025
Great read
Lot's of pain but much healing. The path we follow as believers can be hard, but the training we learn is rewarding!
Lot's of pain but much healing. The path we follow as believers can be hard, but the training we learn is rewarding!
January 28, 2025
It was clean. I’m not sure how I feel about Christian Fantasy.
November 6, 2024
A Path to Healing is such an incredible story! Though this is the third novel in The Prodigal Woman series it was easy to read as a standalone without having to read the other books in the series first. The flow is fantastic as I was able to connect with both Bethany and Ezra on a deeper level.
This year is the first year that I’ve started reading fantasy novels and this story is such a unique world but is easy to relate to with flawed characters and situations that resonate. The fight of self-acceptance with your lot in life, inner beauty, and accepting God’s will are just a few things that spoke to me and I’m sure will speak to many.
There were so many lines that resonated with my soul but this one in particular stopped me in my tracks and continues to echo in my mind: “Oftentimes we need to fall to the bottom of ourselves to discover who we truly are.” I am on my own personal journey to finding who I am in a new stage of my life and this part discussing refining fires had me pondering much more than just the story I was reading. It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord will use a moment in a fictitious story, one simple line to pierce my soul.
I plan on going reading the first two novels in this series as A Path to Healing blew me away. It has such incredible heart and passion at its core and was truly my pleasure to read.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
This year is the first year that I’ve started reading fantasy novels and this story is such a unique world but is easy to relate to with flawed characters and situations that resonate. The fight of self-acceptance with your lot in life, inner beauty, and accepting God’s will are just a few things that spoke to me and I’m sure will speak to many.
There were so many lines that resonated with my soul but this one in particular stopped me in my tracks and continues to echo in my mind: “Oftentimes we need to fall to the bottom of ourselves to discover who we truly are.” I am on my own personal journey to finding who I am in a new stage of my life and this part discussing refining fires had me pondering much more than just the story I was reading. It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord will use a moment in a fictitious story, one simple line to pierce my soul.
I plan on going reading the first two novels in this series as A Path to Healing blew me away. It has such incredible heart and passion at its core and was truly my pleasure to read.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
November 8, 2024
Wow! This is a not to be missed fantasy story. This is the third in the series, but it reads very well as a standalone as it seems the other stories are happening at the same time. Anyway, this is the first I have read, and I will be going back reading the other two.
Bethany has been scarred due to a fire that also claimed her beloved father's life. She has lost her faith in her Redeemer, in herself, and has let bitterness and revenge take root. When she runs into Ezra, the famous gladiator, her world begins to shift.
Ezra is famous for his skills and turning his winnings into freedom for his mother, who was made to be a harlot. He just wants a quiet life, one where he can give his mother all that she deserves. He would like to find a wife who loved him for him and accepted his mother. Bethany also upends his life.
This put me in the mind of a gender reversal of Beauty and the Beast. It is not a high fantasy novel, and the focus was on the building of their relationship. There is danger coming upon their province. There is a very evil darkness that wants to take all from them. I found this to be a mirror of our own lives in this world. I also enjoyed so much the budding relationship between Bethany and Ezra. A great fantasy story and new to me author. This makes it into one of my top reads of 2024.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
Bethany has been scarred due to a fire that also claimed her beloved father's life. She has lost her faith in her Redeemer, in herself, and has let bitterness and revenge take root. When she runs into Ezra, the famous gladiator, her world begins to shift.
Ezra is famous for his skills and turning his winnings into freedom for his mother, who was made to be a harlot. He just wants a quiet life, one where he can give his mother all that she deserves. He would like to find a wife who loved him for him and accepted his mother. Bethany also upends his life.
This put me in the mind of a gender reversal of Beauty and the Beast. It is not a high fantasy novel, and the focus was on the building of their relationship. There is danger coming upon their province. There is a very evil darkness that wants to take all from them. I found this to be a mirror of our own lives in this world. I also enjoyed so much the budding relationship between Bethany and Ezra. A great fantasy story and new to me author. This makes it into one of my top reads of 2024.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
November 6, 2024
Christian Romance with Fantasy is a genre that has peaked my interest in recent months. A Path to Healing by Lisa M. James is Book 3 in the Prodigal Woman series. I have been enjoying this series since Book 1 and was interested in this book also.
WOW, I think this book is my favorite in the series! Bethany and Ezra are the main characters in this book. Bethany believes she will never marry due to a disfigurement of her face. Her mother tells her to marry Ezra, as he seems to be the only man interested in her. Bethany and Ezra met when Bethany begins assisting him with his Sheep Flock. Bethany wears a veil to cover her disfigured face, but eventually Ezra gets to see her face. I really LOVE how Ezra marries Bethany and wants to protect her from further harm. Bethany believes she wasn't worthy to be a wife, but she soon begins to feel the real love between herself and Ezra. The book is one of trusting God's plan and not our own, seeing the inner beauty within people and God's love! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fantasy with Romance books! WONDERFUL Book!
WOW, I think this book is my favorite in the series! Bethany and Ezra are the main characters in this book. Bethany believes she will never marry due to a disfigurement of her face. Her mother tells her to marry Ezra, as he seems to be the only man interested in her. Bethany and Ezra met when Bethany begins assisting him with his Sheep Flock. Bethany wears a veil to cover her disfigured face, but eventually Ezra gets to see her face. I really LOVE how Ezra marries Bethany and wants to protect her from further harm. Bethany believes she wasn't worthy to be a wife, but she soon begins to feel the real love between herself and Ezra. The book is one of trusting God's plan and not our own, seeing the inner beauty within people and God's love! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fantasy with Romance books! WONDERFUL Book!
November 13, 2024
This is my first book by this author. I love Beauty and the Beast retellings. I love books with romance, fantasy, and faith. This book combines all of those superbly. The fantasy elements were not extremely severe. I didn’t find myself slogging through so much description of a new world that I got lost in the weeds and found myself taken out of the story. This romance has redemption and family and friends. Faith, the war between good and evil, and a deeper look at beauty. I’d love to read more from this author. The elements on faith, even in the midst of loss and persecution, were extremely relevant. The emphasis on beauty not being skin deep is a needed lesson for so many. This book was the whole package.
I received an ARC of this book via Just Read Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book via Just Read Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 27, 2024
Bethany was burned in a fire and feels people stare so she covers her face, Ezra won a prize and freed his mother from the life she was living and feels people think less of them. He's happy working on his own until his mom hires Bethany to help them.
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November 19, 2024FREE today (November 14, 2024) on Amazon.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews