What do you think?
Rate this book
Ryan's Father
The rippling influence of Ryan Reid's less than moral mother and absent father left a mark on his soul. Yet everything changed when the young teacher gave his life to the Lord...almost everything.
An earthquake hurls the beautiful Sandy Arrington into his life, tossing his world upside down. But when God calls him to build an annex for needy teens at his church, he finds himself battling an attraction toward his male partner in the project. His own struggles and Sandy's growing feelings for him force Ryan to face the issue he's long buried.
Can he dig his way out from under his secret to find Sandy's love?
An earthquake hurls the beautiful Sandy Arrington into his life, tossing his world upside down. But when God calls him to build an annex for needy teens at his church, he finds himself battling an attraction toward his male partner in the project. His own struggles and Sandy's growing feelings for him force Ryan to face the issue he's long buried.
Can he dig his way out from under his secret to find Sandy's love?
- GenresChristian Fiction
302 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2014
3 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
June Foster
147 books174 followers I began writing in 2010 while sailing down the freeway in our RV. I love to place my characters in unlikely situations where escape is questionable, yet freedom is possible through God's power and His Word. I'm a retired teacher turned author and live with my husband in beautiful Alabama.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 12, 2014
Before I started to read June Foster’s novel RYAN’S FATHER, I didn’t have a clue as to how much I would enjoy it. I had no idea that once I started on page one, I would be glued to the pages to find out what would happen next. I didn’t know I would care as much as I came to care.
I wish I could give this book more than five stars. This is a novel I wish every Christian would read in our day and age.
In the novel, Ryan Reid is a young, sensitive, masculine man that I wanted to win over the torment that had haunted him from his unhappy youth. I wanted so badly for his female love interest, Sandy Arrington, to help Ryan realize that there is healing toward a life of Godly sexual desires within the context of traditional marriage of one man, one woman.
Is there hope for a man who is confused over homosexual urges because he’s never known the love of a father? Is there hope for a damaged man because he never saw any decency in his abusive mother? June Foster’s novel inspired me to realize that there is hope for people who have not had anyone to show them the right way.
I applaud June Foster’s novel that is full of insight from her experience as a Christian counselor. This is an emotional, dramatic, wholesome novel that is based—not on biased assumptions—but on fact coming out of the successful treatment of wounded individuals through Christ-centered counsel. Brava, June Foster.
I wish I could give this book more than five stars. This is a novel I wish every Christian would read in our day and age.
In the novel, Ryan Reid is a young, sensitive, masculine man that I wanted to win over the torment that had haunted him from his unhappy youth. I wanted so badly for his female love interest, Sandy Arrington, to help Ryan realize that there is healing toward a life of Godly sexual desires within the context of traditional marriage of one man, one woman.
Is there hope for a man who is confused over homosexual urges because he’s never known the love of a father? Is there hope for a damaged man because he never saw any decency in his abusive mother? June Foster’s novel inspired me to realize that there is hope for people who have not had anyone to show them the right way.
I applaud June Foster’s novel that is full of insight from her experience as a Christian counselor. This is an emotional, dramatic, wholesome novel that is based—not on biased assumptions—but on fact coming out of the successful treatment of wounded individuals through Christ-centered counsel. Brava, June Foster.
June 29, 2017
I'd never heard of this author until last week. Another Christian fiction author was having a Christian fiction scavenger hunt online - they are fun, though I never win anything - and June was one of the authors participating. She was giving away a copy of this novel. so I entered to win and commented that I hoped to win it, as I also struggle with same-sex attractions as her main character in the book does. Next thing I know, she commented on my blog with an offer to review the book, which I took her up on.
I have long wished a Christian author would write a book like this. I actually started to write one, but never finished it. I am going to review this in a slightly different manner, splitting the review up as I occasionally do into parts:
The writing:
The book is well written, and I like the author's writing style. Sometimes with smaller publishing companies, the editing and writing aren't too great, but they are in this novel. Though not a suspense novel, I found myself engrossed in it as much as if it were.
The characters:
If an author doesn't have likable and believable characters, the story can be a total loss. I found myself really liking the characters in Ryan's Father, and especially Ryan, who I could completely empathize with. Often characters in books are too perfect, but Ryan's flaws and struggles made him all the more likable.
The struggle:
I can personally attest what it is like to have this struggle. June did a masterful job of portraying the struggle and the anguish of a Christian wanting to do the right thing, yet gripped by desires they did not want or choose.
This is not a slam of the author, as she said the same thing at the end of the book: the speed of Ryan's deliverance from same-sex attractions to opposite sex attractions is unrealistic. Though many men have changed enough to be able to marry a woman and make it work, it rarely - if ever - happens as fast as it did in the book, and many never are able to achieve that.
It is getting harder and harder to be a Christian holding a Biblical view of sexuality, and it takes courage for an author to write a book like this. Not all will like it, and the author has already received some negative comments. I am one who appreciates this book a lot. It does not give an extensive look into what it is like to have this struggle, but it gives a good enough look that maybe Christians reading it will better understand what we go through who do have it.
I very much enjoyed this book, largely in part because I could so much identify with it, but the author did a great job of addressing this very difficult issue through the medium of Christian fiction. I most definitely recommend it.
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
I have long wished a Christian author would write a book like this. I actually started to write one, but never finished it. I am going to review this in a slightly different manner, splitting the review up as I occasionally do into parts:
The writing:
The book is well written, and I like the author's writing style. Sometimes with smaller publishing companies, the editing and writing aren't too great, but they are in this novel. Though not a suspense novel, I found myself engrossed in it as much as if it were.
The characters:
If an author doesn't have likable and believable characters, the story can be a total loss. I found myself really liking the characters in Ryan's Father, and especially Ryan, who I could completely empathize with. Often characters in books are too perfect, but Ryan's flaws and struggles made him all the more likable.
The struggle:
I can personally attest what it is like to have this struggle. June did a masterful job of portraying the struggle and the anguish of a Christian wanting to do the right thing, yet gripped by desires they did not want or choose.
This is not a slam of the author, as she said the same thing at the end of the book: the speed of Ryan's deliverance from same-sex attractions to opposite sex attractions is unrealistic. Though many men have changed enough to be able to marry a woman and make it work, it rarely - if ever - happens as fast as it did in the book, and many never are able to achieve that.
It is getting harder and harder to be a Christian holding a Biblical view of sexuality, and it takes courage for an author to write a book like this. Not all will like it, and the author has already received some negative comments. I am one who appreciates this book a lot. It does not give an extensive look into what it is like to have this struggle, but it gives a good enough look that maybe Christians reading it will better understand what we go through who do have it.
I very much enjoyed this book, largely in part because I could so much identify with it, but the author did a great job of addressing this very difficult issue through the medium of Christian fiction. I most definitely recommend it.
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2016
"Ryan Father" by June Foster is a five star book! I have loved all of her books, as they are based on characters who has real problems her readers can relate too! This book is about a subject that many don't want to talk about or think about, homosexuality. June Foster has written a beautiful story that deals with this honesty and yes it is a Christian book and it is a clean romance!
This book hooked me from the first sentence, there was an earthquake at Starbucks! That's what is so great about this story, it isn't about a earthquake, but the earthquake pulls you in. Ryan is a schoolteacher and in this earthquake he meets a nurse! It's your typical love story, Right!
Well, this isn't your average love story because Ryan has homosexuality thoughts about his best friend. Both of these guys are Christian and the friend has no idea of Ryan's thoughts.
This story is beautifully written and really makes the reader understand Ryan and his struggles and the thoughts and actions of the other characters in this book!
Ryan also works a summer job and has problems there as well, and Sandy's dad, the nurse, is against Ryan because he isn't rich enough! Sandy has her own secrets as well, why is she afraid of the dark?
This novel is full of heartaches and forgiveness and it makes you think before you are quick to judge others!
I won't tell you that Ryan's story ends well or not, you MUST read this story yourself to FIND OUT, but I will tell you that you won't feel like you wasted your time after reading it and I think the characters will stay with you long after you close the book!
I was given a ebook copy of this book for my honest review!
This book hooked me from the first sentence, there was an earthquake at Starbucks! That's what is so great about this story, it isn't about a earthquake, but the earthquake pulls you in. Ryan is a schoolteacher and in this earthquake he meets a nurse! It's your typical love story, Right!
Well, this isn't your average love story because Ryan has homosexuality thoughts about his best friend. Both of these guys are Christian and the friend has no idea of Ryan's thoughts.
This story is beautifully written and really makes the reader understand Ryan and his struggles and the thoughts and actions of the other characters in this book!
Ryan also works a summer job and has problems there as well, and Sandy's dad, the nurse, is against Ryan because he isn't rich enough! Sandy has her own secrets as well, why is she afraid of the dark?
This novel is full of heartaches and forgiveness and it makes you think before you are quick to judge others!
I won't tell you that Ryan's story ends well or not, you MUST read this story yourself to FIND OUT, but I will tell you that you won't feel like you wasted your time after reading it and I think the characters will stay with you long after you close the book!
I was given a ebook copy of this book for my honest review!
August 31, 2016
June Foster is an author known for tackling complicated problems, and this book does not disappoint. In Ryan’s Father, June tells the story of a young Christian man struggling with his own feelings of homosexuality.
Raised by a single, alcoholic mother, and no father for guidance, Ryan Reid spent his childhood struggling with feelings of loneliness and abandonment. As a teen, he met a local pastor and trusted his heart to God. The newfound relationship with the Lord brought an element of love and peace to his life. But there was one issue that didn’t change. Though he never acted on his feelings, Ryan still felt an attraction to men.
When an earthquake strikes while Ryan is purchasing a cup of coffee, he ends up under a Starbuck’s table with Sandy Arrington, a beautiful young nurse that works at the local hospital. Soon Ryan and Sandy are seeing a lot of each other. And when Sandy attends church with Ryan and surrenders her life to Christ, she begins to see Ryan in a new light. The relationship that develops between the two of them forces Ryan to confront the secret he has been hiding.
After spending so many years living a lie, can Ryan find it in himself to finally give the problem to God? And when he does face reality, can he trust the truth to Sandy? Or will he lose her forever?
You will enjoy the fact that June tells this story from a strong Christian point of view. When God is in control, he can change anything in our lives. Ryan must learn that total surrender to God, in every issue of his life, is the only way to defeat sin.
I give this book 5 stars. Thank you for sharing such an excellent story with us, June!
July 23, 2015
Ryan's story is filled with anguish and ongoing struggles. His past has paved the way for who he has become, and his attraction toward his male friend is about to ruin him. Ryan and Sandy become acquainted as the earth literally quakes, and Ryan protects Sandy from not only injury, but her overwhelming fear. She finds him very attractive, but he can only see her as a friend.
Ryan's Father deals with numerous social issues, including illegitimacy, alcohol abuse, abandon and homosexuality. Told with honesty and sensitivity Ryan's life is one of accomplishments and grave disappointments. The author employs a heavy Christian inspirational influence throughout this story of disappointment, heartache and remorse. Hope and faith are very strong points, and forgiveness is significant. Christian faith is the thread that Ryan clings to as life becomes more and more difficult.
Ryan's Father is a strong inspirational example of how an individual may respond when his world has been turned upside down in so many ways. Facing his homosexuality is significant to Ryan's story, with his church family and strong faith that literally bring him peace when waters are rough. If you enjoy Christian fiction with a very strong inspirational message throughout, this is definitely the book for you.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Ryan's Father deals with numerous social issues, including illegitimacy, alcohol abuse, abandon and homosexuality. Told with honesty and sensitivity Ryan's life is one of accomplishments and grave disappointments. The author employs a heavy Christian inspirational influence throughout this story of disappointment, heartache and remorse. Hope and faith are very strong points, and forgiveness is significant. Christian faith is the thread that Ryan clings to as life becomes more and more difficult.
Ryan's Father is a strong inspirational example of how an individual may respond when his world has been turned upside down in so many ways. Facing his homosexuality is significant to Ryan's story, with his church family and strong faith that literally bring him peace when waters are rough. If you enjoy Christian fiction with a very strong inspirational message throughout, this is definitely the book for you.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
March 4, 2014
I had difficulty deciding how to rate this book, after reading it. I've put off reviewing, and kept searching my concience, hoping that an idea would come to me.
Finally, in desperation, I contacted a friend, and she gave me some great advice.
Ryan has an attraction to someone of the same sex, he's a christian, and he doesn't act on his feelings, but they are still there. I think we all know someone who
doesn't quite fit the 'perfect mold' in fact a lot of someones, all of us. June Foster did a good job of telling this difficult story, without making you feel bad, sorry, or angry, at any of the people involved.
She made it believable and the characters all work together, to tell this story well. So you don't like the subject matter, then you need to put your flaws in that place, where Ryan's flaws are placed. Then sit down, open your Bible, and understand that we are all sinners, working to become better people
I was given a copy of this book by the author, to read and review. She knew she was treading on a subject that might disturb some people, but she didn't ask to read my review before I posted it. All opinions expressed here are my own, and I was given no other compensation for my opinion
Finally, in desperation, I contacted a friend, and she gave me some great advice.
Ryan has an attraction to someone of the same sex, he's a christian, and he doesn't act on his feelings, but they are still there. I think we all know someone who
doesn't quite fit the 'perfect mold' in fact a lot of someones, all of us. June Foster did a good job of telling this difficult story, without making you feel bad, sorry, or angry, at any of the people involved.
She made it believable and the characters all work together, to tell this story well. So you don't like the subject matter, then you need to put your flaws in that place, where Ryan's flaws are placed. Then sit down, open your Bible, and understand that we are all sinners, working to become better people
I was given a copy of this book by the author, to read and review. She knew she was treading on a subject that might disturb some people, but she didn't ask to read my review before I posted it. All opinions expressed here are my own, and I was given no other compensation for my opinion
March 5, 2014
Ryan’s Father deals with the culturally challenging subject of sexual sin, homosexuality and our own brokenness and inability to overcome sin without the help and healing of Jesus. June Foster did an excellent job of allowing Ryan’s character to discover the truths and lies of his life as he walked the paths of his faith. I never felt preached at, even though the Christian world-view is very apparent. The author did well to point out that healing for some is fast, but for others is a daily submissiveness to God in putting their burdens and temptations at Jesus feet. We should not despair, but always go to the One who promises never to leave us, nor forsake us.
The struggles and longings between Ryan, Sandy and the Lord are palpable—dealing with issues of trust and healing on many levels. The author never paints a rosy, simplistic picture, but faces the temptations of sexual sin head on. She clearly relates that sex inside the bounds of a covenant marriage with God is a beautiful and good thing—but that outside of this is wrong. No words are minced and no punches pulled in this compassion-filled, challenging story, but as in life, the healing love of Christ is always there for the reader to turn to. Highly recommended.
The struggles and longings between Ryan, Sandy and the Lord are palpable—dealing with issues of trust and healing on many levels. The author never paints a rosy, simplistic picture, but faces the temptations of sexual sin head on. She clearly relates that sex inside the bounds of a covenant marriage with God is a beautiful and good thing—but that outside of this is wrong. No words are minced and no punches pulled in this compassion-filled, challenging story, but as in life, the healing love of Christ is always there for the reader to turn to. Highly recommended.
June 16, 2014
I won this book on Goodreads! Thank you. When I entered to win, it was very late, I was very tired, and only read part of the description. If I had read it in its' entirety, I most likely would not have tried to win it. That would have been my loss! This was an excellent book! Made me see my faith, or lack there of, as it really is. Confirmed my beliefs in My God and I think helped our relationship! The characters are strong, well defined, and personable. I read this book in one day, because I wanted to see just where June Foster was taking me with this story. I hope that all of her books are a good as this one. It goes on my shelf as a keeper. I am glad I didn't get the chance to judge this book by it's description, and that I felt obligated to at least give it a try because I won it! If either of those things would have changed my mind, I would have missed out on a blessing! Thank You June for the reminder of what I always knew,but seemed to have forgotten and that God is in control if I only let him be! <3
February 21, 2014
This book is June's best work to date. I have to say this book worried me, as a book with a super controversial subject, I just was not sure how this book would read. I had faith that June would write a good story, but still I worried. SHAME ON ME!! What a beautiful story of love, Godliness, and redemption! The characters in this book each have their flaws, and they each come face to face with owning their mistakes or fears. These characters make you care. You want the "happy ever after" ending. You want the dreams fulfilled. Does that happen? You just need to read Ryan's Father to find out.
I personally purchased this book, so no review was required from me. The opinions I am expressing are my own. I have no trouble giving this book 5 stars. And it will definitely top my favorite list for releases of 2014.
I personally purchased this book, so no review was required from me. The opinions I am expressing are my own. I have no trouble giving this book 5 stars. And it will definitely top my favorite list for releases of 2014.
January 29, 2014
June Foster has done it again. She tackles difficult issues using a healthy dose of fiction. Whether you agree or not that homosexuality is a heartache, you will find yourself yearning for and cheering these young people who face greater difficulties than most of us will ever need to deal with.
Ryan Reid has a problem. Well, actually two. He has for years battled the attraction he feels not for women but for men. And now Sandy Arrington, the lovely young woman he helps during an earthquake, has fallen in love with him. The lie he's been living is coming home to eat him up. Even with God's help, the problems he faces endanger not just his peace of mind but also his job and his cherished friendships with Sandy and with Greg.
Ryan Reid has a problem. Well, actually two. He has for years battled the attraction he feels not for women but for men. And now Sandy Arrington, the lovely young woman he helps during an earthquake, has fallen in love with him. The lie he's been living is coming home to eat him up. Even with God's help, the problems he faces endanger not just his peace of mind but also his job and his cherished friendships with Sandy and with Greg.
March 17, 2014
*I was an editor on this book*
This is what I call a brave book, since it deals with a political hot-topic--from a point of view that few dare to voice these days. A story of a young man dealing with homosexual urges that he DOES NOT WANT, this is a story of finding healing through the Lord when you seek it. It isn't saying that everyone will follow the same path, but is offering the light of hope to those who want to be free of an urge they deem a sin. Kudos to June Foster for giving it voice.
This is what I call a brave book, since it deals with a political hot-topic--from a point of view that few dare to voice these days. A story of a young man dealing with homosexual urges that he DOES NOT WANT, this is a story of finding healing through the Lord when you seek it. It isn't saying that everyone will follow the same path, but is offering the light of hope to those who want to be free of an urge they deem a sin. Kudos to June Foster for giving it voice.
March 19, 2020
WOW. What a book. I thought the author did a wonderful job of addressing a difficult subject. This book was both hard for me to read as well as one I couldn’t put down. She was able to make me feel Ryan’s struggle, as well as Sandy’s. I loved that she adhered to the Biblical view of homosexuality. She showed that once we know who we are as a Christian, we can learn to look at things the way God wants us to. I cried through the last several chapters, a sign that the author was able to get me emotionally involved with the story. I would recommend this book.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
April 4, 2020
Author June Foster brings a story filled with emotion, compassion, caring and faith in God. Tackling a tough topic can be difficult. This story brings to light how our faith and trust in God can bring comfort at any time and in any situation. The struggles of the main character, Ryan, are shown through his thoughts, words and actions. The ways Ryan deals with his concerns are reminders to always go to God in prayer. Beautiful story.
April 12, 2019
Grace. God'spoke remarkable healing and grace.
April 4, 2020
Author June Foster brings a story filled with emotion, compassion, caring and faith in God. Tackling a tough topic can be difficult. This story brings to light how our faith and trust in God can bring comfort at any time and in any situation. The struggles of the main character, Ryan, are shown through his thoughts, words and actions. The ways Ryan deals with his concerns are reminders to always go to God in prayer. Beautiful story.
February 26, 2014
This was a beautiful story and God's love, mercy and Grace are truly amazing. Whatever our struggles are we should not hide and pretend that they don't exist, but take them to God so he can heal us. Never be afraid to seek counseling; pray and ask God to direct you to the right counselor. There is healing and there is hope. Thank you Jesus.
June 20, 2014
Overall rating: 3.5/5.0 stars.
Reviewed for the Hope Chest Reviews.
http://www.thcreviews.com/cgi-bin/vts...
Reviewed for the Hope Chest Reviews.
http://www.thcreviews.com/cgi-bin/vts...
March 23, 2016
The story line had promise, but I didn't enjoy the way it was written and couldn't connect to the characters.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews