My Beauty for Your Ashes

Promises to Zion #1

by Traci Wooden-Carlisle

Elder Paige Morganson has worked hard to overcome the anger, hate and abuse of her past. With God’s help she believes healing and wholeness is within her grasp when she is propelled into a world of secrets and lies that threaten to unravel the very thread of hope she’s clung to in her struggle for peace.

Mason Jenson is a self-made man who has been able to create his own fortune and build a home life with his wife and child void of God’s help…so he thinks, but as the world he knows balances precariously on the edge of destruction, who will he turn to?

Elder Brandon Tatum’s, new in town, has prided himself on not making a move until he’s heard God, but even as he accepts his new position in ministry, he is faced with decisions of the heart; a whole new territory for him.

Victoria Branchett has ruthlessly survived the death of her only daughter by fierce determination, but is the strength she has relied on enough to see her through a failing marriage and an ailing grandchild?

This novel merges colorful characters facing one untimely circumstance after another, and mixes in a serious spin on how one views God, both inside and outside of His will. Of course, this is just the beginning. More people emerge from behind the scenes; some to help and others, to hurt. With everything happening simultaneously, one would almost question if God is able to truly fix and heal everything, and the readers will see just how far each person's faith (or lack thereof) will carry them.

As they sift through the debris of past dreams and hopes left by the wayside they are offered a lifeline and given an opportunity to receive God’s Beauty for their ashes.

If you could exchange every failed attempt at happiness for God’s peace…would you?

Genres: Christian Fiction

545 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 21, 2012

About the author

Traci Wooden-Carlisle began writing poetry and short stories as soon as she was able to form words on paper. She used that as a way of creating worlds, as well as, to communicate with God. A native of Los Angeles, California, she grew up attending United Methodist Church under the leadership of a pastor whose heart was for youth. Once she finished college she found herself at a loss. She felt caught in the transition between childhood and adulthood. She surrounded herself with saints and volunteered her services as a graphic artist. Through the early-morning prayer, all night Friday prayer and 3-day shut-ins she started on her journey toward her most desired gift, an intimate relationship with God.
Today, Mrs. Wooden-Carlisle lives in San Diego with her husband, Mr. Carlisle. She teaches fitness classes, runs a jewelry and craft business, and is currently writing the next installment in her Christian-fiction series.

Reviews

[Dina · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Beauty for Your Ashes by Traci Wooden-Carlisle is my first book in Christian-fiction, this is not my usual genres, but I did enjoy it.

Her story affects the lives of four people and how they come to deal with their feelings about God and their situations.

The character of Victoria Branchett losing her only child made me feel like I could be her in some ways. I was able to relate to her as a mother and her feelings about the emptiness about losing a child. I am still working to find all the positives in life, but reading Traci's story has given me a more open mind for understanding more, forgiveness and moving forward. Traci writes characters who are believable and a story that has a heartfelt meaning.

[Margret · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really loved this book!
It was my first time reading one of Traci s books but wow she did not disappoint. I was so spiritually uplifted by this book. Paige s story, her relationship with God, her struggles , her fears, her joys to go through all she went through and still come out Victorious! wow. This book really encouraged me, it made me want to weep and rejoice with the characters. I was swept with the story, i did not want to put it down. The plot was ingenuous, God's presence so very prominent, for a fiction book to bring about such a reaction is truly the work of God. A must read for any lovers of Christian Fiction. i cant wait to read part two of the series.

[jane waldoch · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best I have read. While I have enjoyed all of the books by this author, the characters in this book really touched my heart. It made me both laugh and cry. While it is fictional, it seems so real, it almost made you pray for people in it. It is a book that I think everyone can relate to in some stage of their life. The only think I didn't like was when I finished it. I am going to read the next two books in this series. I have to find out what happens next. I'm sure you will feel the same way too.

[Carol Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring

Wow - what a wonderfully written story about a difficult topic. The story pulled you in from the very beginning. I couldn’t put the book down as it was compelling me to turn the page to see what was going to happen next.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully told story that will make you look at others with a little more hope. Well worth a read for fans of Christian fiction and humanity.

[Judy Weiszbrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Read!

I couldn’t put this book down. Great interaction between the characters. It is an exceptional storyline. For the romantic at heart.

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is filled with multiple characters with each one having a story plus some deep pain to deal with. It’s an emotional read with the trauma of the primary character Elder Paige. The redemptive message of God’s love and forgiveness is shown through her healing of the abuse she suffered at an early age. The book does leave lots of questions about what will happen to the primary and even secondary characters. I’m disappointed with the ending and reading the blurb for rest of the books in the series did not answer all the unanswered questions.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. I have shared my own opinion.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful victory

What a wonderful thing it is to have gone through a traumatic situation and then to come out of it changed: not a victim but a Victor! Praise God that this can happen in His strength alone. Very well done!

[Marta Tandori · Rating 4 out of 5]

More than just chicken soup for the Christian's soul...If you’re going to read My Beauty for Your Ashes, you had better be prepared for an emotional roller coaster because once you’ve committed to the book – and it certainly shouldn’t take you beyond the second short chapter to do that – you’re in for the whole ride. And what a ride it is! You cannot help but feel at times overcome with a sense of goodness and hope, of anger and despair, of wonderment and a sense of injustice and most of all, of good tidings that swell your heart and lift your spirits. Central to the story is widower Mason Jenson and his twelve-year-old daughter who are involved in a horrific car accident, the aftermath of which leaves his young daughter in need of a kidney. It quickly becomes apparent that there are other issues at play as Mason struggles with his anger and helplessness over his daughter’s predicament. The author, Wooden-Carlisle, delivers several messages throughout the book with one of them being abundantly clear, in particular: no man or woman is an island. We must reach out and accept gratefully from those who offer, and forgive selflessly and graciously. Although the book is Christian fiction and may not appeal to all demographic of readers, it’s far more than just chicken soup for the Christian’s soul – it’s a great read for all of us looking to reaffirm our faith in humanity.

Marta Tandori
Author of the Kate Stanton Hollywood Mystery Series

[Dionne Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gripped from beginning to end! What a wonderful engaging story! It was so much more than I expected. So exciting! I was taken on a journey through Paige Morganson's life and how she touched Mason and Brandon - not one, but two men who were captivated by her beauty and her love for God. I was rooting for both men, and couldn't decide who I loved more!

Through Paige’s sacrifice and pain, there was hope for Mason and Brandon. I was emotionally gripped throughout and reduced to tears.

There was intrigue and suspense that had me continuously turning the pages to discover what happened next - I found myself laughing out loud at parts and at other parts, shocked – talking to myself, then talking to God. It was great!

This novel is so beautifully written, Traci Wooden-Carlisle truly has a gift with words. It is a powerful, heart-rending story, I was touched. It made me question myself and reflect.

Ultimately, this story is about God’s grace and love. A soul inspiring read! I highly recommend it, don’t miss out - download your copy today! It will not disappoint.

[Airre_lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. In the beginning the author didn't skimp on introducing the characters and by the middle I had some I loved and some I almost hated. This book was expressive physically and emotionally and it truly did take me on a roller coaster ride with all of the twists and turns. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to be inspired by the power a relationship with God can give. Even as things were revealed and the characters tried to work through different struggles I never felt left behind. I found myself either in their shoes or wondering if I would do the same thing if I were in their shoes.
This book was insightful and provoked deep thought and emotion. Be careful when you pick it up. You won't want to put it down.

[Kelly Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really took me by surprise. In the times I had to put it down, I was eager to get back to it. I loved how the four plot threads intertwined - it was artfully done. The author's style is well-developed and engaging. I'm not religious (like at all), but I enjoyed this. I did find I skipped over some of the more intense Jesus stuff in places, but I found after the first third of the book, the religious side of things pattered down while the story took flight. If you like reading Christian fiction you will love this book. If you don't, I'd still give it a chance - it may surprise you, as it did me :)

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author. I really liked the characters in this book. They are very relatable and likeable. I feel like with the different POV's you were really able to get to know each character and the problems they were facing. This is a story about love and forgiveness and you're able to feel what the characters are feeling. I loved this book and can't wait to read the next one. Very well written.

[Karlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a genre I don't normally read but was told it is a good book, that said I thought to give it a try. At times it was a little to religious for me but I thought it was well written. All the characters are at different places in their life whether it be on their view of god and what is going on in general. With all these different stories happening, they all tie in together in one way or another.

[J Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book with a powerful message!

This book is not only a good clean romance novel. It is also a soul-stirring affirmation of faith. Events from Paige's childhood threaten to overwhelm her future and Mason may lose the only thing that makes his life still worth living. This powerful storyline reminded me of some truths that had faded away over the years. My copy of the book was free, but my review is honest and voluntary. This is an excellent book with a powerful message.

[Huntis ChoColette · Rating 5 out of 5]

God Can and He will Deliver

This was an awesome read. At times I laughed, at times I cried and throughout I prayed. This book is relatable and will make you want to know God's unconditional love for yourself. He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly and beyond our hearts imagination.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written book. It is full of twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. It's a wonderful story that shows God's grace and forgiveness . If you like Christian fiction, you will love this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very enjoyable read. The author's faith seeped into the characters. I felt all the emotion written. I thought this a well written Christian book and worthy of your time to read about if you are looking for characters who embrace their faith

[Neisha Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the best book I've read in many, many years. It pulls you into the story and you can almost feel each emotion. I love this book...can't wait for the others!!!

[Vonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. A story of 4 lives intertwined to bring healing, hope and God's love.

[Yvette Yearwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must Read

If you've ever wondered if God heard your cries. If you've ever gone through something Sooo painful and thought He forgot about you...read this book!!!

[Excel Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Beauty For Your Ashes by Traci Wooden- Carlisle is a wonderful and deep book. I call it deep because it touches some scenarios in the present day society. It has 474 pages and 51 chapters. It is an emotional, entertaining, descriptive and attention grabbing book!

The first few pages were descriptive and emotional. I was impressed at the smooth flow of words and I could imagine along with the writer of the book. The author has great word building skill.

In chapter one,page 12, my attention was drawn to a certain paragraph that looked like an eulogy.

“Stone Winters was a lifetime disappointment to his family and anyone who dared to get close enough to call him ‘friend’. He was a liar,a cheater,woman beater,andthe cause of much heartbreak to his Mom until she died four years ago. He used everyone he met and left many children fatherless. When I went to visit him Last Friday,he was headed to hell with a long-standing reservation to burn forever”. pg 12



Isn’t that so blunt? That paragraph gave me the impression that this book was going to be entertaining.

The theme of forgiveness was portrayed severally in this book. I got to understand that it is okay to face your fears.

Each chapter has a way of luring you to find out more in the next pages of the book. I even fell in love with a twelve year old girl called Vivi (Vivian) at the beginning of the book.

The book commands so much attention. Some paragraphs were a bit preachy but it was well utilized. I was comfortable with it.


This book is a Christian fiction genre with references to the scriptures as they apply to the characters in the plot. It is also full of suspense. Traci Wooden- Carlisle writes so well your “heart will be in your mouth” figuratively. Her pages has a way of making you grab a blanket and getting comfortable on your favourite chair as the plot deepens interestingly.


I won’t stop emphasizing on the theme of forgiveness. My heart bled literally on some of the character’s stories. How is it easy to eulogise at the funeral of someone who molested you at age 14 and pregnancy arose with complications? Let’s be real,is it truly easy? Those questions arose when I was reading Paige’s confession to Pastor Lawrence in his office.
The author perfectly made me to understand that with God’s grace,forgiveness is easy.


The themes of rape,incest,abortion, hate,anger,unforgiveness,untold hidden secrets and bitterness were well illustrated in this book with forgiveness as the central theme. There was also the theme of love.


Traci Wooden Carlise is a new author to me and I am happy to announce that I will be adding her to my list of amazing Christian fiction writers.

[Cherie l brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! There is a lot going on between these pages. While some of it is a result of a very bad family situation, but such things have happened and do happen in families. The meshing of these characters is interesting. Paige, an elder in her church, has turned her life around. However, she has so many closeted secrets that she must now deal with. Victoria B, is just too too too much! I will call her a very rich “Karen”, but with black and biracial family. She feels everything is for sale and can be manipulated to her favor. Her entitlement allows her take down any opponent be it friend, foe or family. Brandon is a new minister at the same church as Paige. They had an attraction to each other-but heretofore Paige doesn’t date and is not interested in a relationship. Then there is Mason, a real work in progress. I care for Mason, but he is so far from God. Can Paige help Mason, or is he so far from God that he can’t get back? Which man will win Paige’s heart? Can the other connection with Mason give him an advantage over Brandon? You will not want to miss a single page of this compelling drama -there’s a lot happening here that will keep you engaged in the story of Paige, Victoria, Brandon and Mason.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very beautiful story

I would have given it 5 stars, but for the fact that there were so many grammatical errors and typos that it took away from the enjoyment for me. Most were issues with homophones, "passed" used instead of"past", being the most prevalent. There were also a few words that were misused. For example, "drool" instead of "droll" and "reaping" havoc instead of "wreaking" havoc. Still, I loved the story and will look forward to reading the second one. If you're looking for a quick read, this isn't it. There's a lot of depth to this book and you'll want to take your time to really get involved in the story. It's well worth the time you invest, especially the spiritual aspects. Just be aware that this is not a standalone book and that it does end with a cliffhanger.

[Cyrene Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nicely written and engaging book, but there are quite a few characters to keep track of, and the author jumps from chapter to chapter between them, so at times, I had to pause and let my brain play catch up from a couple chapters ago, for example, just as I was really engaging with the story, the story shifts to a different set of characters in the next chapter. It’s also a longer book by today’s standards, and some of it was a bit drawn out. All in all, this is a well written book, and even the non-religious readers can find something to relate to. This is a book that definitely ticks all the boxes in its genre. Reviewed by Cyrene

4 1/2 Stars

[Patricia Dudley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful Read

This was the first book I read by Track Wooden-Carlisle, but I have already purchased the second book of "Promises to Zion Series. It was fascinating how the author weaver the characters together. It was truly remarkable to find a romantic novel that has such a powerful presence of the perfect, pure love of God. It has a pure essence that inspires one to go for the gold in GOD. I enjoyed it tremendously. Thanks to you,Traci Wooden-Carlisle for yielding your gift to HIS anointing and sharing it with us!

[Juanita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twist and turns

The only reason I didn't give this story of 5 it was a little slow moving, but very enjoying it kept me on the edge of my seat and there was so many different scenarios going on. The story is very relatable, you can understand a lot of the scenarios and the power of prayer and knowing that God is with you in every situation.

[debra k barnarrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

It first the story was a little difficult to follow because of the different story lines happening, but after I got it organized in my mind I found each story line moved quickly and full of ups and downs and struggles. So much was brought to my attention. I can hardly wait to read the next one in my he series.

[Sandi Stover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting storyline. I really appreciate there being no vulgarity in this book. I really like the characters. I’m giving the book 4 stars because I thought the story could have moved along better.

[Staci Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Journey to true strength & Faith

While I have witnessed many wear masks of righteousness. Those who found their true Faith are a blessing amongst us. When service, compassion, love & kindness lead despite the past. There is a difference.