What do you think?
Rate this book
Alexia Lindale #1
Life Support
Alexia Lindale knows her new case is a matter of life and death. She doesn't have a clue what it will do to her heart...and soul.
From the Christy-award-winning author of The List, The Trial, and The Sacrifice comes this twisting tale of tough decisions, mixed motives, and mysterious, healing grace.
Baxter Richardson survived a fall from a cliff while hiding in the mountains. Whether he'll make it through the next few weeks is unclear. His survival depends on the machines that help him breathe. On the haunted, unstable wife who wants to pull the plug and hide her secrets. On the doting father who wants him alive for reasons of love and money. On the conflicting legal documents that send the fight to court. And, on the music and prayers of an extraordinarily gifted pianist.
From the Christy-award-winning author of The List, The Trial, and The Sacrifice comes this twisting tale of tough decisions, mixed motives, and mysterious, healing grace.
Baxter Richardson survived a fall from a cliff while hiding in the mountains. Whether he'll make it through the next few weeks is unclear. His survival depends on the machines that help him breathe. On the haunted, unstable wife who wants to pull the plug and hide her secrets. On the doting father who wants him alive for reasons of love and money. On the conflicting legal documents that send the fight to court. And, on the music and prayers of an extraordinarily gifted pianist.
400 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2003
173 people are currently reading
1878 people want to read
About the author
Robert Whitlow
49 books964 followersRobert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
July 28, 2014
This review has the possibility of turning into a rant about a genre rather than focusing on the book, but I'll try to keep that in check.
I haven't read any inspirational (read "inspirational" as "Christian fiction") since leaving home 24 years ago, but my Mom has long been a Christian bookseller as a side business. When I visited her during her cancer treatment she had collected all the books by this author for me to read because he graduated from the institution where I work. I had to read a few, obviously.
The problem with Christian fiction (oh here we go, groan) is that it is always trying to do too many things. This novel combines a crime story with a redemption story, trying to address issues of guilt and trust, finding God and finding a relationship. Oh yeah and of course the main female character is talented but lonely, and the male love interest is very spiritual but works with his hands, the quintessential inspirational profile. Is that a Jesus thing? All the blue collar workers that Christian main characters manage to find working on their own in the stereotypical small towns? Jesus symbols? Could we be any more obvious? Okay, okay, sorry.
So in one novel, Alexia the lawyer finds God, her piano-playing construction-worker trusts God again for love AND finds a calling for his improvised worship pieces (these chapters are more eye-rolling worthy than the romance), oh yeah and the crime that is supposed to be underpinning the entire novel gets ENTIRELY DROPPED. Okay, not entirely dropped but absolutely none of the story lines come to a close. The author, you see, was planning to write another novel. I threw the book down and had a temper tantrum because I had to read two novels to get the story, and I knew I'd have to or my mother would mail it to me.
The line this novel ends with starts out the sequel.
I haven't read any inspirational (read "inspirational" as "Christian fiction") since leaving home 24 years ago, but my Mom has long been a Christian bookseller as a side business. When I visited her during her cancer treatment she had collected all the books by this author for me to read because he graduated from the institution where I work. I had to read a few, obviously.
The problem with Christian fiction (oh here we go, groan) is that it is always trying to do too many things. This novel combines a crime story with a redemption story, trying to address issues of guilt and trust, finding God and finding a relationship. Oh yeah and of course the main female character is talented but lonely, and the male love interest is very spiritual but works with his hands, the quintessential inspirational profile. Is that a Jesus thing? All the blue collar workers that Christian main characters manage to find working on their own in the stereotypical small towns? Jesus symbols? Could we be any more obvious? Okay, okay, sorry.
So in one novel, Alexia the lawyer finds God, her piano-playing construction-worker trusts God again for love AND finds a calling for his improvised worship pieces (these chapters are more eye-rolling worthy than the romance), oh yeah and the crime that is supposed to be underpinning the entire novel gets ENTIRELY DROPPED. Okay, not entirely dropped but absolutely none of the story lines come to a close. The author, you see, was planning to write another novel. I threw the book down and had a temper tantrum because I had to read two novels to get the story, and I knew I'd have to or my mother would mail it to me.
The line this novel ends with starts out the sequel.
April 22, 2021
I actually really enjoyed this book!
It’s a lawyer story, not a mystery.
Content warning: one kiss, attempted murder, and flippant reference to abortion
It’s a lawyer story, not a mystery.
Content warning: one kiss, attempted murder, and flippant reference to abortion
October 10, 2016
Not since Denise Hildreth Jones's
Savannah from Savannah
have I been this impressed with the heroine of a book. I believe Alexia Lindale may be my next literary crush.
As for the story itself, it was engaging and kept the pages turning. Sure, you have to read the next book to continue the story...but wasn't The Empire Strikes Back the same way? The writing was good, and I look forward to further installments in this series.
As for the story itself, it was engaging and kept the pages turning. Sure, you have to read the next book to continue the story...but wasn't The Empire Strikes Back the same way? The writing was good, and I look forward to further installments in this series.
June 18, 2008
Ever since John Grisham wrote "The Firm" and it became a run-away bestseller, legal thrillers have become a dime a dozen. Lots of book publishers have sought to cash in on the trend toward the public's interest and the legal thriller has almost become its own genre-so much so that I fully expect it to get its own section in the bookstore someday. So, it probably shouldn't come as too great a shock that there would, eventually, be a subset of the Christian publishing genre for a legal thriller.
What was shocking was how good it turned out to be.
Robert Whitlow's "Life Support" is a legal thriller-and it's one with a Christian emphasis. But I'd easily put this legal thriller up against some of the best the secular publishing world has to offer. "Life Support" is just that good.
Rena Richardson did not have a happy childhood and she's not grown up to be a happy adult. She married an heir to a family's good fortune and has grown to love the good life. She wants to keep all that-the thing is she doesn't want to keep her husband, Baxter. So, one day while hiking she pushes him over a cliff and makes it look like an accident. But in a cruel twist of fate for Rena, Baxter survives and is put on life support. Rena wants to terminate it to cover her own secrets, but her fat her-in-law, Ezra has another legal document that gives him control over Baxter's life-and he very much wants his son to be living so he can exercise his power of attorney. Ezra has his own agenda as well-he's not all on the up and up and his company harbors some shady secrets he'd rather see kept out of the light of day.
Enter into this attorney, Alexia Lindale, who is assigned by her law firm ,which represents Ezra, to go in and mediate things. Rena draws Alexia into her web of lies, leading to Alexia's termination and striking out on her own to represent Rena in a battle against her former employers. Along the way, Alexia meets the musical director at a local church and finds herself being drawn not only to him but also to a newer and deeper relationship with God.
"Life Support" is a fascinating character study and one in which the pages fly by. Unlike a lot of other contemporary Christian fiction, the characters are all not lily white, but are instead real human beings. For as much of a one-note villain as Rena could be, Whitlow invests her with just enough likeability to make us feel some sympathy for her and to understand her plight. And as much as Alex and the music minister are the heroes of this novel, they are still human enough to have faults, doubts and foibles. It makes the pages come alive because we feel like all these characters are real people-not just one-note characters the author has created to hammer home his own agenda or point.
And although there are some things that are the standard stock of your basic legal thriller and your basic Christian-oriented novel, Whitlow blends them together seamlessly in his novel. This was a great book and one that I found myself sorry to see end-even though it does end at a crossroads with a promise for more to come in 2004.
I've not read any of Whitlow's other work, but after reading this one, I am definitely eager for more. Whitlow delivers a page-turning thriller with a profound and heartwarming message at the center. Just like life, there are no easy answers, but that's what makes this book such a pleasure to read.
What was shocking was how good it turned out to be.
Robert Whitlow's "Life Support" is a legal thriller-and it's one with a Christian emphasis. But I'd easily put this legal thriller up against some of the best the secular publishing world has to offer. "Life Support" is just that good.
Rena Richardson did not have a happy childhood and she's not grown up to be a happy adult. She married an heir to a family's good fortune and has grown to love the good life. She wants to keep all that-the thing is she doesn't want to keep her husband, Baxter. So, one day while hiking she pushes him over a cliff and makes it look like an accident. But in a cruel twist of fate for Rena, Baxter survives and is put on life support. Rena wants to terminate it to cover her own secrets, but her fat her-in-law, Ezra has another legal document that gives him control over Baxter's life-and he very much wants his son to be living so he can exercise his power of attorney. Ezra has his own agenda as well-he's not all on the up and up and his company harbors some shady secrets he'd rather see kept out of the light of day.
Enter into this attorney, Alexia Lindale, who is assigned by her law firm ,which represents Ezra, to go in and mediate things. Rena draws Alexia into her web of lies, leading to Alexia's termination and striking out on her own to represent Rena in a battle against her former employers. Along the way, Alexia meets the musical director at a local church and finds herself being drawn not only to him but also to a newer and deeper relationship with God.
"Life Support" is a fascinating character study and one in which the pages fly by. Unlike a lot of other contemporary Christian fiction, the characters are all not lily white, but are instead real human beings. For as much of a one-note villain as Rena could be, Whitlow invests her with just enough likeability to make us feel some sympathy for her and to understand her plight. And as much as Alex and the music minister are the heroes of this novel, they are still human enough to have faults, doubts and foibles. It makes the pages come alive because we feel like all these characters are real people-not just one-note characters the author has created to hammer home his own agenda or point.
And although there are some things that are the standard stock of your basic legal thriller and your basic Christian-oriented novel, Whitlow blends them together seamlessly in his novel. This was a great book and one that I found myself sorry to see end-even though it does end at a crossroads with a promise for more to come in 2004.
I've not read any of Whitlow's other work, but after reading this one, I am definitely eager for more. Whitlow delivers a page-turning thriller with a profound and heartwarming message at the center. Just like life, there are no easy answers, but that's what makes this book such a pleasure to read.
June 5, 2017
Immediately after finishing GRAY MOUNTAIN, I began LIFE SUPPORT by Robert Whitlow. Publicity for Whitlow always lists him at the Christian fiction version of John Grisham, and I must agree that both are excellent writers of legal fiction. Once again, the protagonist is a young female lawyer who finds herself suddenly unemployed. Alexia Lindale has made quite a name for herself as a divorce lawyer who can calmly advocate for her female clients. That may be why her firm asks her to navigate a dispute between Ezra Richardson, a rich and powerful client of the firms, and his daughter-in-law Rena. Baxter Richardson, Rena's husband and Ezra's son, is on life support after a fall from a cliff. Both Ezra and Rena hold documents which should give each power to make medical decisions for Baxter, but the two have differing opinions about what should be done. Readers will clearly know Rena's motives, but Alexia will not, but soon the interactions between the two women will lead to Alexia being asked to leave her firm. As she begins to navigate a private law practice, Rena becomes one of her first clients and deception abounds. Built into this legal thriller is another layer that makes the novel stand apart. Alexia, a lover of classical music, meets Ted Morgan, a music pastor, at a local church, and she is drawn back again and again to hear him play. As a relationship just begins to sprout between the two, an even greater relationship opens for Alexia. Through music, she feels God's presence for the first time --something her grandmother had always wished for.
This thread which focuses on the divine power of music becomes even more important as Ted is allowed to play for the comatose Baxter.
I must admit that LIFE SUPPORT ended disappointingly for me. I stayed up until 1:00 a.m. to finish the book last night, only to find the book did not really end. I quickly searched and yes, there is a second book. After reading comments about the second book, it appears that it ends with a cliffhanger also, but there is no third book. Right now I am in a bit of a dilemma. I want to know more, especially about Alexia and Ted, but if the second book ends without resolving Rena's guilt do I really want to continue this tale?
This thread which focuses on the divine power of music becomes even more important as Ted is allowed to play for the comatose Baxter.
I must admit that LIFE SUPPORT ended disappointingly for me. I stayed up until 1:00 a.m. to finish the book last night, only to find the book did not really end. I quickly searched and yes, there is a second book. After reading comments about the second book, it appears that it ends with a cliffhanger also, but there is no third book. Right now I am in a bit of a dilemma. I want to know more, especially about Alexia and Ted, but if the second book ends without resolving Rena's guilt do I really want to continue this tale?
April 17, 2012
You know from the very beginning of the book that Rena Richardson pushes her husband Baxter off a cliff. That fact seems to be lost as you continue in the story. I kept wanting to know more about why she did it. Of course as I read this book I didn't realize it was part 1 and that another book followed. Only in the last pages of the book did I begin to have a real interest in what would happen next. Most of the story centers around her lawyer, Alex Lindale, but even her story is slow and I kept wanting her to wake up and see Rena for what she really was. Maybe she does in the next book but I am not in a hurry to read it.
July 2, 2012
I got to read Life Support (Alexi Lindale #1) by Robert Whitlow courtesy of BookSneeze. It's a novel about a lawyer who deals with work, spiritual and other matters. Alexia Lindale is a lawyer who specializes in divorce. She prides herself in connecting with women. Little does she know that her latest client is trying to take advantage of her.
Baxter Richardson finds himself in critical circumstances. He is on life support. Rena Richardson, his wife, and his father, Eza, are at odds. Baxter signed a paper stating he didn't want to life by the support of machines. Rena and Eza can't come to an agreement on the matter of continuing life support.
Alexia Lindale acts as Rena's attorney to end life support. Eza hires Alexia's former boss as his attorney to keep life support going. Jeffery agrees with Rena that Baxter should be allowed a natural death. The doctors are also at a stalemate. With everyone at odds with each other, the only man who can bring some light to this situation is Alexia's new friend Ted. Ted tries music therapy and asks God to intervene in the matter.
It's similar to John Grisham. There's a lot of detail based on Alexia being a lawyer. There's also a spiritual twist. The books is set in the south.
I happen to be from Atlanta, and I like mystery/crime novels. The writing is good. The pace is great for a nearly 400 page novel. The characters are all interesting. There's many hidden agendas. There's also a bit of romance in the book to keep the tone light. It's a nicely balanced novel. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat until literally the last word.
Baxter Richardson finds himself in critical circumstances. He is on life support. Rena Richardson, his wife, and his father, Eza, are at odds. Baxter signed a paper stating he didn't want to life by the support of machines. Rena and Eza can't come to an agreement on the matter of continuing life support.
Alexia Lindale acts as Rena's attorney to end life support. Eza hires Alexia's former boss as his attorney to keep life support going. Jeffery agrees with Rena that Baxter should be allowed a natural death. The doctors are also at a stalemate. With everyone at odds with each other, the only man who can bring some light to this situation is Alexia's new friend Ted. Ted tries music therapy and asks God to intervene in the matter.
It's similar to John Grisham. There's a lot of detail based on Alexia being a lawyer. There's also a spiritual twist. The books is set in the south.
I happen to be from Atlanta, and I like mystery/crime novels. The writing is good. The pace is great for a nearly 400 page novel. The characters are all interesting. There's many hidden agendas. There's also a bit of romance in the book to keep the tone light. It's a nicely balanced novel. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat until literally the last word.
August 15, 2011
There are all sorts of questions. You wonder who really has the best interests of Baxter at heart, if he's a good person, and does that matter in the end. One of the biggest questions many readers may grapple with (if they haven't already) is how they feel about the question of extended life support and when or if it should be stopped.
Robert Whitlow examines all of this in the context of one case and one group of people who all seem to have questionable motives. The lawyer at the heart of it all only knows part of the story and has to try and navigate through treacherous waters.
The book was well done and I was surprised by some of the plot developments. It read like a stand alone novel and I kept waiting for the big pay off and then there was this sort of sudden ending. That's when I went back and saw this is the first book in a series. It's not a cliffhanger - and almost everything is resolved so you don't feel frustrated or anything. It just feels like you've been walking on a fast escalator and suddenly stepped off onto the sidewalk. It's startling - which may have been exactly what the author was after.
I want to thank Thomas Nelson for providing my electronic copy for review.
Robert Whitlow examines all of this in the context of one case and one group of people who all seem to have questionable motives. The lawyer at the heart of it all only knows part of the story and has to try and navigate through treacherous waters.
The book was well done and I was surprised by some of the plot developments. It read like a stand alone novel and I kept waiting for the big pay off and then there was this sort of sudden ending. That's when I went back and saw this is the first book in a series. It's not a cliffhanger - and almost everything is resolved so you don't feel frustrated or anything. It just feels like you've been walking on a fast escalator and suddenly stepped off onto the sidewalk. It's startling - which may have been exactly what the author was after.
I want to thank Thomas Nelson for providing my electronic copy for review.
October 15, 2015
***SPOILERS***
I'm stunned that this book received so many 4-star reviews and can only think the difference was the expectation going in. I was expecting a courtroom drama, a will-she-get-away-with-it-or-won't-she suspense ride. Instead I got a book with so many detours (what was the purpose of the trip to France? It contributed nothing to the story at all. Lindale's sudden interest in god? The deposition she took part in on behalf of another lawyer?) that ended up going nowhere.
Only to get to the last line and, finally, see the victim gain consciousness. The End. I thought WTF? Then I read on here that it is one of two books and the ending is actually in the second book! What a scam! I stuck with it to the end to hopefully (finally) see it deliver on the promises made in the publisher's blurb and am sorely disappointed.
Needless to say I will *not* be getting the second book. I feel ripped off enough by this author.
I'm stunned that this book received so many 4-star reviews and can only think the difference was the expectation going in. I was expecting a courtroom drama, a will-she-get-away-with-it-or-won't-she suspense ride. Instead I got a book with so many detours (what was the purpose of the trip to France? It contributed nothing to the story at all. Lindale's sudden interest in god? The deposition she took part in on behalf of another lawyer?) that ended up going nowhere.
Only to get to the last line and, finally, see the victim gain consciousness. The End. I thought WTF? Then I read on here that it is one of two books and the ending is actually in the second book! What a scam! I stuck with it to the end to hopefully (finally) see it deliver on the promises made in the publisher's blurb and am sorely disappointed.
Needless to say I will *not* be getting the second book. I feel ripped off enough by this author.
March 3, 2012
A wealthy, young businessman falls off a waterfall! This first chapter sets the stage for this suspenseful and sometimes disturbing novel about a young attorney trapped between greedy relatives and her own desire to do God's will. The plot, focused around a comatose patient, took multiple paths, and various points of view kept me anticipating the next chapter.
Whitlow, a native of the Carolinas, painted landscapes for the mind to give me the fullest view of the surroundings. I feel like I know the town of Santee!
The musical depth of this story left my imagination reeling to hear the pianist's prayers for myself--an endearing dimension I've never discovered in any book. Whitlow makes the reader feel.
As a Christian fiction author of adventure novels myself, I studied Whitlow's pace of storytelling and scene sequences. There seemed to be some slow chapters and a few over-detailed scenes that did not necessarily relate to the story. However, the quality of writing was superb.
One of my favorite lines was: "If [the dog] could talk [he] would have told Alex what he saw at the edge of the water in run-on sentences." I enjoyed that scene!
Life Support was a gift that I read in just a few days. From the cold-hearted relatives (that reminded me of vultures) to the loving kindness of strangers (that reminded me of Jesus)--this story contains a comfortable suspense all the way to the end. And what an ending! The cover of the book is also breathtaking.
I cannot help but wonder what happens in the sequel. Thank you, Robert Whitlow!
Whitlow, a native of the Carolinas, painted landscapes for the mind to give me the fullest view of the surroundings. I feel like I know the town of Santee!
The musical depth of this story left my imagination reeling to hear the pianist's prayers for myself--an endearing dimension I've never discovered in any book. Whitlow makes the reader feel.
As a Christian fiction author of adventure novels myself, I studied Whitlow's pace of storytelling and scene sequences. There seemed to be some slow chapters and a few over-detailed scenes that did not necessarily relate to the story. However, the quality of writing was superb.
One of my favorite lines was: "If [the dog] could talk [he] would have told Alex what he saw at the edge of the water in run-on sentences." I enjoyed that scene!
Life Support was a gift that I read in just a few days. From the cold-hearted relatives (that reminded me of vultures) to the loving kindness of strangers (that reminded me of Jesus)--this story contains a comfortable suspense all the way to the end. And what an ending! The cover of the book is also breathtaking.
I cannot help but wonder what happens in the sequel. Thank you, Robert Whitlow!
September 30, 2022
I initially intended to give this book a 4. However, the abrupt ending definitely lost it two stars! I really resent it when publishers ( I choose to be kind to the author, and trust that the decision was not his) try to force the reader to buy more books by leaving a story unfinished and on a cliffhanger. I bought this book from a thrift store because the story seemed interesting. I will not be strong- armed into buying followup books. Just finish the dang story instead of leaving the reader hanging!
July 21, 2015
As I'm finding with all Robert Whitlow books, it kept moving (except a few little lulls with too much verbage which is why only 4 stars) and kept you wanting to see what happens next. I almost tossed the book about 1/3 of the way through but that probably meant that I was really into it. Kept me engrossed for the majority of the book and that's why I'll be starting book 2 very shortly.
October 13, 2012
Robert Whitlow does it again... Real page turner & I am looking forward to the sequel. Alex, a main character goes on a believable faith journey as she learns to wait on The Lord, listen to HIM, & know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God is an Ever Present Help in times of need!
October 14, 2016
I actually stopped reading this book and only finished it for my reading challenge. There was a lot going on and it just got to be so much I just didn't care anymore. The ending leads into the next novel, but I'm going to skip that one, thanks.
June 20, 2017
Because I am a person of faith , I rated this book 4-stars , I did learn a lot about the legal appeal process , and powers of attorney . I would guess a skeptic would rate this 2-stars , and a secularist , one-star ; but who knows ?
November 18, 2021
Very good book but the ending not so good.
November 22, 2021
What a mish mash. Started off great and then became a HUGE disappointment.
May 26, 2019
2.5
audio might not be the right choice for this one. This might be way I had a hard time getting into this one. This is the least favorite of mine of all his books I have read to date.
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
**
It's a novel about a lawyer who deals with work, spiritual and other matters. Alexia Lindale is a lawyer who specializes in divorce. She prides herself in connecting with women. Little does she know that her latest client is trying to take advantage of her.
Baxter Richardson finds himself in critical circumstances. He is on life support. Rena Richardson, his wife, and his father, Eza, are at odds. Baxter signed a paper stating he didn't want to life by the support of machines. Rena and Eza can't come to an agreement on the matter of continuing life support.
Alexia Lindale acts as Rena's attorney to end life support. Eza hires Alexia's former boss as his attorney to keep life support going. Jeffery agrees with Rena that Baxter should be allowed a natural death. The doctors are also at a stalemate. With everyone at odds with each other, the only man who can bring some light to this situation is Alexia's new friend Ted. Ted tries music therapy and asks God to intervene in the matter.
**
I do agree with this and there is some spoilers
I'm stunned that this book received so many 4-star reviews and can only think the difference was the expectation going in. I was expecting a courtroom drama, a will-she-get-away-with-it-or-won't-she suspense ride. Instead I got a book with so many detours (what was the purpose of the trip to France? It contributed nothing to the story at all. Lindale's sudden interest in god? The deposition she took part in on behalf of another lawyer?) that ended up going nowhere.
Only to get to the last line and, finally, see the victim gain consciousness.
**
You know from the very beginning of the book that Rena Richardson pushes her husband Baxter off a cliff. That fact seems to be lost as you continue in the story. I kept wanting to know more about why she did it. Of course as I read this book I didn't realize it was part 1 and that another book followed. Only in the last pages of the book did I begin to have a real interest in what would happen next. Most of the story centers around her lawyer, Alex Lindale, but even her story is slow and I kept wanting her to wake up and see Rena for what she really was.You know from the very beginning of the book that Rena Richardson pushes her husband Baxter off a cliff. That fact seems to be lost as you continue in the story. I kept wanting to know more about why she did it. Of course as I read this book I didn't realize it was part 1 and that another book followed. Only in the last pages of the book did I begin to have a real interest in what would happen next. Most of the story centers around her lawyer, Alex Lindale, but even her story is slow and I kept wanting her to wake up and see Rena for what she really was.
**
So in one novel, Alexia the lawyer finds God, her piano-playing construction-worker trusts God again for love AND finds a calling for his improvised worship pieces (these chapters are more eye-rolling worthy than the romance), oh yeah and the crime that is supposed to be underpinning the entire novel gets ENTIRELY DROPPED. Okay, not entirely dropped but absolutely none of the story lines come to a close. The author, you see, was planning to write another novel. I threw the book down and had a temper tantrum because I had to read two novels to get the story, and I knew I'd have to or my mother would mail it to me.
audio might not be the right choice for this one. This might be way I had a hard time getting into this one. This is the least favorite of mine of all his books I have read to date.
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
**
It's a novel about a lawyer who deals with work, spiritual and other matters. Alexia Lindale is a lawyer who specializes in divorce. She prides herself in connecting with women. Little does she know that her latest client is trying to take advantage of her.
Baxter Richardson finds himself in critical circumstances. He is on life support. Rena Richardson, his wife, and his father, Eza, are at odds. Baxter signed a paper stating he didn't want to life by the support of machines. Rena and Eza can't come to an agreement on the matter of continuing life support.
Alexia Lindale acts as Rena's attorney to end life support. Eza hires Alexia's former boss as his attorney to keep life support going. Jeffery agrees with Rena that Baxter should be allowed a natural death. The doctors are also at a stalemate. With everyone at odds with each other, the only man who can bring some light to this situation is Alexia's new friend Ted. Ted tries music therapy and asks God to intervene in the matter.
**
I do agree with this and there is some spoilers
I'm stunned that this book received so many 4-star reviews and can only think the difference was the expectation going in. I was expecting a courtroom drama, a will-she-get-away-with-it-or-won't-she suspense ride. Instead I got a book with so many detours (what was the purpose of the trip to France? It contributed nothing to the story at all. Lindale's sudden interest in god? The deposition she took part in on behalf of another lawyer?) that ended up going nowhere.
Only to get to the last line and, finally, see the victim gain consciousness.
**
You know from the very beginning of the book that Rena Richardson pushes her husband Baxter off a cliff. That fact seems to be lost as you continue in the story. I kept wanting to know more about why she did it. Of course as I read this book I didn't realize it was part 1 and that another book followed. Only in the last pages of the book did I begin to have a real interest in what would happen next. Most of the story centers around her lawyer, Alex Lindale, but even her story is slow and I kept wanting her to wake up and see Rena for what she really was.You know from the very beginning of the book that Rena Richardson pushes her husband Baxter off a cliff. That fact seems to be lost as you continue in the story. I kept wanting to know more about why she did it. Of course as I read this book I didn't realize it was part 1 and that another book followed. Only in the last pages of the book did I begin to have a real interest in what would happen next. Most of the story centers around her lawyer, Alex Lindale, but even her story is slow and I kept wanting her to wake up and see Rena for what she really was.
**
So in one novel, Alexia the lawyer finds God, her piano-playing construction-worker trusts God again for love AND finds a calling for his improvised worship pieces (these chapters are more eye-rolling worthy than the romance), oh yeah and the crime that is supposed to be underpinning the entire novel gets ENTIRELY DROPPED. Okay, not entirely dropped but absolutely none of the story lines come to a close. The author, you see, was planning to write another novel. I threw the book down and had a temper tantrum because I had to read two novels to get the story, and I knew I'd have to or my mother would mail it to me.
May 22, 2019
When does life actually ends? Baxter Richardson is in coma with a prognosis that if he wakes up, he will likely be a quadriplegic. Rena Richardson is his wife and she wants to stop life support. She considers it as suffering and would like to free Baxter from it. Ezra Richardson is the father, who considers terminating life support as murder. He wants to keep his son alive no matter what the cost. Jeffrey Richardson, the brother also wanted to stop life support. He considers the cost of spending so much money to keep his brother alive in a vegetative state, not a good idea. Alexia Lindale, a lawyer who is caught in the middle of it all.
As a lawyer, she gets confidential information from everybody involved. But is all information shared with a lawyer always the truth? Everybody has their own motive for keeping Baxter alive and for wanting to stop life support.
Robert Whitlow will keep you reading the book till the end which stops so abruptly. I thought my Nook did not download the book properly. Then I noticed that this is the first in a series. It includes mystery, romance and christian faith. I got this book free from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.
As a lawyer, she gets confidential information from everybody involved. But is all information shared with a lawyer always the truth? Everybody has their own motive for keeping Baxter alive and for wanting to stop life support.
Robert Whitlow will keep you reading the book till the end which stops so abruptly. I thought my Nook did not download the book properly. Then I noticed that this is the first in a series. It includes mystery, romance and christian faith. I got this book free from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2023
I did not enjoy the audiobook and found it hard to follow as it jumped scenes between characters suddenly.
Rena's husband is on life support after a tragedy, and she hires lawyer Alexia Lindale to help her end life support, but her father-in-law is fighting to keep his son on life support. We as readers know what happened to Baxter that caused his current condition but only one character actually knows what happened. It was hard to support this person in their goal, and I wanted to tell various characters not to trust them. The story does not wrap up with this book, the ending leaves a lot unfinished. There were scenes or events described that didn't add to the story that I had no idea why they were included, for example, Alexia's vacation to France. I was really enjoying the scenes between Alexia and her old secretary Gwen, but then she seemed to disappear from the story. There is a faith element portrayed, and we see a particular character find a relationship with God. There is one brief kiss scene, but it felt wrong to me, wrong setting at the wrong time. I will read the next book to see what happens.
Rena's husband is on life support after a tragedy, and she hires lawyer Alexia Lindale to help her end life support, but her father-in-law is fighting to keep his son on life support. We as readers know what happened to Baxter that caused his current condition but only one character actually knows what happened. It was hard to support this person in their goal, and I wanted to tell various characters not to trust them. The story does not wrap up with this book, the ending leaves a lot unfinished. There were scenes or events described that didn't add to the story that I had no idea why they were included, for example, Alexia's vacation to France. I was really enjoying the scenes between Alexia and her old secretary Gwen, but then she seemed to disappear from the story. There is a faith element portrayed, and we see a particular character find a relationship with God. There is one brief kiss scene, but it felt wrong to me, wrong setting at the wrong time. I will read the next book to see what happens.
February 6, 2018
This book combines all the things I love about reading. 1) good plot, 2) Christian theme, 3) legal thriller, 4) pulls you in. As previously noted a woman pushes her hubby off a cliff and what happens after that you will have to read, cause I will not tell you here.
Often books with a Christian theme, hit you over the head and put the issue right in your FACE on page one, basically Kneel or Die! This book however is different. This book written in the 3rd person, provides you with insight into the actions and thoughts of the characters. Character introduction is subtle and seems to fill right in at the proper place and time. (I sort of dislike books or movies where they spend the first half of the movie or book bringing all the characters and by the tie they reach the plot, I have to refresh my memory on the cast again! lol) Also the characters in this read are HUMAN, as in they have desires, thoughts, needs and aspirations and desires.
This is listed as a Christian read and yes, it gently brings you to a place of understanding some of the Lord's character.
Often books with a Christian theme, hit you over the head and put the issue right in your FACE on page one, basically Kneel or Die! This book however is different. This book written in the 3rd person, provides you with insight into the actions and thoughts of the characters. Character introduction is subtle and seems to fill right in at the proper place and time. (I sort of dislike books or movies where they spend the first half of the movie or book bringing all the characters and by the tie they reach the plot, I have to refresh my memory on the cast again! lol) Also the characters in this read are HUMAN, as in they have desires, thoughts, needs and aspirations and desires.
This is listed as a Christian read and yes, it gently brings you to a place of understanding some of the Lord's character.
June 29, 2025
I love to find these little gems that come along unexpectedly. I had never heard of this author but this story was really good. I can get very emotional about some of the stories I read and right now I’m getting there! I also have a method to my madness when choosing my reading order. And although I do have the sequel to this book on hand, I wasn’t planning on reading it just yet….. but the way it ended…. I will need to evaluate how to proceed.
I don’t like posting too much about what I read because I don’t want to spoil anything, so I try to keep things very brief. This was a great story with John Grisham vibes dealing with lawyers and trial proceedings. But it has the added elements of faith and religious beliefs that I find very important in life. I was drawn into the story and can’t wait to find out how it goes from here.
I don’t like posting too much about what I read because I don’t want to spoil anything, so I try to keep things very brief. This was a great story with John Grisham vibes dealing with lawyers and trial proceedings. But it has the added elements of faith and religious beliefs that I find very important in life. I was drawn into the story and can’t wait to find out how it goes from here.
March 2, 2019
Unique
I have read two books in this series and will read the third. I have become involved with the characters and plots and Spiritual movement in the story. I love what the author does in presenting the work of the Holy Spirit. Not that the writing doesn't have problems. The author "tells" the story often instead of showing us what happens through conversation or action or description. He uses few active verbs and has a pedantic style and yet for all this, the story captured and kept my attention. I also read this story some 10 years after it was written. Perhaps the author's style has changed. Whether or not it has, I'm off to read the third in the series.
I have read two books in this series and will read the third. I have become involved with the characters and plots and Spiritual movement in the story. I love what the author does in presenting the work of the Holy Spirit. Not that the writing doesn't have problems. The author "tells" the story often instead of showing us what happens through conversation or action or description. He uses few active verbs and has a pedantic style and yet for all this, the story captured and kept my attention. I also read this story some 10 years after it was written. Perhaps the author's style has changed. Whether or not it has, I'm off to read the third in the series.
April 17, 2019
This is book 1 of Robert Whitlow's series, Life Support Santee #1. Alexia, a mainly divorce lawyer with the firm Leggitt& Freeman is asked to run interference between their client's son and his wife. The son, Baxter, has fallen from a cliff side to the rocks below while hiking with his wife. The wife and father are in disagreement over the son's care. Rena wants her husband's wishes followed to die with dignity and his father wants all effort made to keep him alive. Is his wife Rena lying about the fall? Does his father have another motive for keeping his son alive?
June 17, 2023
I breezed through this book. It held on to me and wouldn't let go. I've already got the second book coming on my library app in a few days. The antagonist was a person you love to hate, at least for me. I was never sure if she was really bad or misunderstood and honest. I'll reserve my final judgment when I read the next book. But I sure didn't like her by the end of this book. I liked the heroine and the hero, though some of the mysticism about his musical skill was not my cup of tea. The ending of this book is so not fair!! I needed the second book immediately! Way to go, Robert Whitlow. :)
January 24, 2021
This was definitely a book that is meant to be read as part of a series. The book stops right in the middle of the storyline. It is not even a stand alone story, you have to read the second book to find out what happens.
With that being said... this was a good read. There were parts of the story that I found unbelievable... like the part with the patrol officer.... and parts I found completely infuriating... like everything to do with the wife... but it was a quick easy read with a heartbreaking plot. Its not the best book I've read... but not the worst either.
With that being said... this was a good read. There were parts of the story that I found unbelievable... like the part with the patrol officer.... and parts I found completely infuriating... like everything to do with the wife... but it was a quick easy read with a heartbreaking plot. Its not the best book I've read... but not the worst either.
July 28, 2022
This is not part of the Rizzoli and Isles series, but is still set in the Boston area and involves an ER doctor and a medical examiner. The novel shows the privilege money can buy, while setting up a war between the classes. One story line follows a series of sudden deaths among the rich clients of an exclusive seniors facility, while another follows the plight of a pregnant teen prostitute, who is abused by her pimp and treated as disposable by society.
Where the stories converge is a tale of medical science gone wrong. And a cover-up worth killing for.
Where the stories converge is a tale of medical science gone wrong. And a cover-up worth killing for.
April 9, 2023
Filled with suspense, intrigue, twists and turn, lies, visions, romance, and faith, Whitlow has penned another enjoyable legal suspense novel. Alexia Lindale is a divorce attorney. When Rena Richardson approaches her for a divorce from her husband who has fallen over a cliff on a hike and a picnic and is now comatose, Alexia finds herself in a bigger mess than she ever counted on involving not only possible criminal activity but also a client who has a definite problem with telling the truth.
Fast moving suspense plot that kept my attention from start to finish.
Fast moving suspense plot that kept my attention from start to finish.
January 21, 2019
Grabs hold and doesn't let go...
Another incredible book that I didn't want to put down. The storyline grabs you from the very beginning and doesn't let go even when you read the very last word, you are left wanting more..
I love the way Robert Whitlow weaves faith and Scripture throughout all his books and see the transformation of the characters as their eyes are opened to what is really important in this life.
Another incredible book that I didn't want to put down. The storyline grabs you from the very beginning and doesn't let go even when you read the very last word, you are left wanting more..
I love the way Robert Whitlow weaves faith and Scripture throughout all his books and see the transformation of the characters as their eyes are opened to what is really important in this life.
June 2, 2020
A case about a woman who tried to kill her husband by sending him over a
Cliff and attempts to have him taken off life support. This is a story about
a rich father and a wife who wants to inherit and what she’ll do to
Accomplish her goal. Alexia Lindale is lawyer who is at the center of the
Controversy and this case of life and death. This is a well written book
With rich characters. I recommend this book and author.
Cliff and attempts to have him taken off life support. This is a story about
a rich father and a wife who wants to inherit and what she’ll do to
Accomplish her goal. Alexia Lindale is lawyer who is at the center of the
Controversy and this case of life and death. This is a well written book
With rich characters. I recommend this book and author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews