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Redeemed #1
Relentless
Attorney Maxwell Montgomery has amassed a long list of legal victories in the war he's waged against corruption and religious hypocrisy, single-handedly bringing down one of the most popular churches in Philadelphia. Estranged from his family and uninterested in committing to a serious relationship, Maxwell appears heartless and full of disdain. His resolve isn't fueled by strong spiritual convictions, however. It stems from adversity in his childhood.
Maxwell's parents were devoted church members who followed their leader blindly into a get-rich-quick-scheme that went terribly wrong. His cushy, middle-class life was ripped from him when his father was convicted of fraud, lost his job, house, car, life savings, long-time position as church treasurer, and credibility in the neighborhood. Maxwell's mother was also convicted and served nearly a year in prison at a critical time in Maxwell's childhood. Tossed from their home, he barely escaped foster care as an abusive aunt agreed to keep him and his sister until their parents were released from prison. Seeds of bitterness were deeply planted as Maxwell watched the pastor walk away with no consequences and his reputation intact.
Maxwell has vowed to never again let his fate be dictated by anyone else--not his parents, not God, not a romantic relationship, and definitely not the church. He is determined to be successful, powerful, and rich enough to never end up like his father, and never to need God or the church. No one is immune from his vengeful pursuit--or so he believes. Success abounds; however, Maxwell isn't prepared for the surprise headed his way and the price he'll have to pay.
Maxwell's parents were devoted church members who followed their leader blindly into a get-rich-quick-scheme that went terribly wrong. His cushy, middle-class life was ripped from him when his father was convicted of fraud, lost his job, house, car, life savings, long-time position as church treasurer, and credibility in the neighborhood. Maxwell's mother was also convicted and served nearly a year in prison at a critical time in Maxwell's childhood. Tossed from their home, he barely escaped foster care as an abusive aunt agreed to keep him and his sister until their parents were released from prison. Seeds of bitterness were deeply planted as Maxwell watched the pastor walk away with no consequences and his reputation intact.
Maxwell has vowed to never again let his fate be dictated by anyone else--not his parents, not God, not a romantic relationship, and definitely not the church. He is determined to be successful, powerful, and rich enough to never end up like his father, and never to need God or the church. No one is immune from his vengeful pursuit--or so he believes. Success abounds; however, Maxwell isn't prepared for the surprise headed his way and the price he'll have to pay.
288 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2014
17 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Haley
32 books55 followersPatricia Haley, an award winning national bestselling author, earned the title of ‘trailblazer’ after achieving remarkable success with her first faith-based novel. She self-published her debut novel, Nobody's Perfect, in 1998 and immediately sold nearly 20,000 copies in an industry where selling 5,000 copies at the time was highly regarded. The novel was the first of its kind to repeatedly make numerous national best sellers list, including #1 on the Essence (national African-American) list. Her next book, No Regrets, was popular among readers and followed Nobody’s Perfect onto the best seller’s list.
Originally from Rockford, IL, Patricia now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, Jeffrey and their daughter. With an engineering degree from Stanford Univ. and an M.B.A. in marketing and finance from the Univ. of Chicago, readers are often surprised to hear that Patricia is writing novels, given her technical and business background.
When asked what led her to writing, her response is, "I was always good at creative writing in high school, but my interest was in math and science. I wasn't big on writing classes in college either. Engineering and graduating in four years was my primary focus. In the 90s, I went through a time of personal challenge. Writing became an unexpected tool of therapy. My first attempt at writing was a non-fiction (self-help) book. I got about halfway through it in 1994 and stopped. I set the book aside because a relationship storyline kept playing in my head. So I just sat down one day and wrote the first page. A few weeks later, another page and so on until nine months later I had completed my first novel, Nobody's Perfect. I questioned whether it could be any good, because the writing came very easily. Everything flowed so well. Without consciously trying, I was basically writing what I wanted to read and wasn't able to find in the stores -- clean fiction (without the sex and profanity), set in modern day, addressing real issues, and filled with a spiritual twist that honors God and gives people hope that they can get through their tough times. Everybody is bound to have at least one challenge in their life. "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." - John 16:33 (NIV Holy Bible). My writing is intended to remind people of the hope and peace that come from personally knowing Christ Jesus. I knew God had called and equipped me to write from the beginning. However, I realized in 2007 that God called me to write not for the sake of becoming a career author, but for the explicit purpose of encouraging others through motivational speaking, one-on-one mentoring, writing workshops, and of course the messages in my books. So writing is my gift and encouraging others is my purpose. In case you're wondering what is the difference between the two, gifts, talents, and strengths are the tools you're given to help fulfill your purpose."
Her published titles are Chosen (2009), Destined (2010), Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (nominated Best Inspirational Fiction of 2006), Still Waters, No Regrets, Blind Faith, short stories in Blessed Assurance and the Midnight Clear anthologies, and her trailblazing bestselling first novel, Nobody's Perfect (1998), which is currently out of print. Her future plans include releasing a revised as well as a sequel.
Beyond her literary endeavors, she is a born-again believer in Christ Jesus and has a great love for the Lord, her beloved husband, daughter, family, and membership in Delta Sigma Theta Public Service Sorority, Inc., where she previously served as Chaplain in the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter as well as a past committee chairperson. She is honored to be a charter member of both the Omicron Chi Collegiate chapter at Stanford University and the Schaumburg-Hoffman Estates (IL) Alumnae Chapter. Patricia spends part of her time working in Corporate America as a project manager. Formerly a member of the gospel choir, building committ
Originally from Rockford, IL, Patricia now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, Jeffrey and their daughter. With an engineering degree from Stanford Univ. and an M.B.A. in marketing and finance from the Univ. of Chicago, readers are often surprised to hear that Patricia is writing novels, given her technical and business background.
When asked what led her to writing, her response is, "I was always good at creative writing in high school, but my interest was in math and science. I wasn't big on writing classes in college either. Engineering and graduating in four years was my primary focus. In the 90s, I went through a time of personal challenge. Writing became an unexpected tool of therapy. My first attempt at writing was a non-fiction (self-help) book. I got about halfway through it in 1994 and stopped. I set the book aside because a relationship storyline kept playing in my head. So I just sat down one day and wrote the first page. A few weeks later, another page and so on until nine months later I had completed my first novel, Nobody's Perfect. I questioned whether it could be any good, because the writing came very easily. Everything flowed so well. Without consciously trying, I was basically writing what I wanted to read and wasn't able to find in the stores -- clean fiction (without the sex and profanity), set in modern day, addressing real issues, and filled with a spiritual twist that honors God and gives people hope that they can get through their tough times. Everybody is bound to have at least one challenge in their life. "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." - John 16:33 (NIV Holy Bible). My writing is intended to remind people of the hope and peace that come from personally knowing Christ Jesus. I knew God had called and equipped me to write from the beginning. However, I realized in 2007 that God called me to write not for the sake of becoming a career author, but for the explicit purpose of encouraging others through motivational speaking, one-on-one mentoring, writing workshops, and of course the messages in my books. So writing is my gift and encouraging others is my purpose. In case you're wondering what is the difference between the two, gifts, talents, and strengths are the tools you're given to help fulfill your purpose."
Her published titles are Chosen (2009), Destined (2010), Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (nominated Best Inspirational Fiction of 2006), Still Waters, No Regrets, Blind Faith, short stories in Blessed Assurance and the Midnight Clear anthologies, and her trailblazing bestselling first novel, Nobody's Perfect (1998), which is currently out of print. Her future plans include releasing a revised as well as a sequel.
Beyond her literary endeavors, she is a born-again believer in Christ Jesus and has a great love for the Lord, her beloved husband, daughter, family, and membership in Delta Sigma Theta Public Service Sorority, Inc., where she previously served as Chaplain in the Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter as well as a past committee chairperson. She is honored to be a charter member of both the Omicron Chi Collegiate chapter at Stanford University and the Schaumburg-Hoffman Estates (IL) Alumnae Chapter. Patricia spends part of her time working in Corporate America as a project manager. Formerly a member of the gospel choir, building committ
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 27, 2018
As every book this one had its flaws, some characters were unnecessary, while other more important characters came in way later (like midway). I've never had such a hard times finishing a book. The beginning chapter was catchy, but there's about ten chapters or so the could have been made into two. The book has 50 chapters and in still not sure why. And though I liked the ending (where it finally start picking up) there's alot of loose ends to this one. Fortunately, for me I already have book 2(though it has 57 chapters leaving me even more reluctant to start). However, I think it will be easier to follow since we got through all of the back story in book 1.
February 27, 2024
This is a very good read. I was deeply involved in the story and made up my mind about the characters....the good and the bad. This mans journey reflects a lot of our stories with unforgiveness being any ugly sin that takes root and consumes. I couldn't wait till the end to see if there was a redemption twist (my favorite kind) but the book ended. I have already ordered the next one in the series from the library. I am completely invested in these characters and I can't wait to see where the story lines takes me!💕💕
September 22, 2020
Conceptually Intriguing
This story line was conceptually very good. The end wasn't really an ending; disappointingly, it was more or less a cliffhanger. There were at least five editorial mistakes as well, which always stand out like a sore thumb for me. The concept of writing a Christian story from the opposing view point was novel and an interesting change of pace.
This story line was conceptually very good. The end wasn't really an ending; disappointingly, it was more or less a cliffhanger. There were at least five editorial mistakes as well, which always stand out like a sore thumb for me. The concept of writing a Christian story from the opposing view point was novel and an interesting change of pace.
July 5, 2019
This was a really good book but I felt that it just moved so slow! The premise of the story is very interesting and I think that the way that it is written is pretty realistic and not super cheesy like some other christian themed books that I have read.
December 26, 2019
The very last page of this twisted novel will have you holding your breath in suspense. Prominent Attorney Maxwell get's a case that ties into his past. He is a Alpha Male, highly educated man who lives according to his moral standards. Loved this novel. Fast paced and suspenseful.. great book.
February 22, 2020
Excellent read. I couldn't put it down. Church fold don't realize the damage they can cause, but bitterness is never good for anyone. Great questuons at the end which should cause peiple to reflect in their church. Definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more by the author.
June 25, 2019
Maxwell will get his! He is just as corrupt as some of the people he’s going after. Guess he never heard the saying, “if you dig one ditch you may as well dig two.”
January 15, 2015
It was a good storyline. I would have liked to know what happened with the rest of the characters. So I guess I will keep my eye out for the next book in the series.
July 15, 2015
Loved this book, I'm just sad I have to wait for the next book to find out what happens!!!!!
January 19, 2016
Very good
I started this book today and finished today could not seem to put it down.
I could not put this book down
I started this book today and finished today could not seem to put it down.
I could not put this book down
January 21, 2016
Interesting
The storyline and characters were very good - it shows how our past can make us bitter if we don't ask God for healing
The storyline and characters were very good - it shows how our past can make us bitter if we don't ask God for healing
December 20, 2014
boring. pushed myself to finish and was disappointed.
July 14, 2016
I keep getting GANKED by these book "series" . I will not be reading any others
April 29, 2017
Attorney Maxwell Montgomery (formerly Paul) has one mission in life: bring down corrupt church leaders, especially Bishop Ellis Jones. When he was Pastor Jones, he was responsible for ruining young Paul's life. Pastor Jones got the church involved in a bad financial deal. Many members lost money, but Paul Montgomery, Sr. lost his freedom. As church treasurer, he took the fall for Pastor Jones, and as church secretary, his wife also was implicated. Both of them served time, leaving young Paul and his sister to stay with relatives until they were released.
Having reinvented himself as Maxwell, Paul is one of the most prominent lawyers in Philadelphia. Pastors, ministers, bishops and apostles all tremble in fear at the mention of his name and for good reason. He's financially destroyed many churches with civil lawsuits; he can find the slightest bit of wrongdoing and use it to carve those entities up like roast beef.
After years, Maxwell now has Bishop Jones in his sights, but is the cost of potential victory worth it?
Good read- I enjoy these modern day takes on people from the Bible.
Having reinvented himself as Maxwell, Paul is one of the most prominent lawyers in Philadelphia. Pastors, ministers, bishops and apostles all tremble in fear at the mention of his name and for good reason. He's financially destroyed many churches with civil lawsuits; he can find the slightest bit of wrongdoing and use it to carve those entities up like roast beef.
After years, Maxwell now has Bishop Jones in his sights, but is the cost of potential victory worth it?
Good read- I enjoy these modern day takes on people from the Bible.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews