In His Hands

by Tanisha Stewart

Tony is a man after God's own heart. Saved from a past that was riddled with criminal activity, it is now his life's goal to build a future as a minister-in-training. With his beautiful wife Meka and their unborn child by his side, Tony feels like his life is complete.

Until he delivers his trial sermon, and tragedy strikes in the worst way.

Devastated by the blow he was dealt, Tony strives to shake it off and hold himself together. Tony clings onto hope, and things start to get better . . . until they get worse.

Dazed and confused, with competing voices drowning his focus, Tony finds himself at his wit’s end. The Bible says that vengeance belongs to the Lord, but whose voice will Tony bow to, the Holy Spirit, or the venomous whispers of his flesh?

155 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2025

Reviews

[April]

Team Tony!

How can I not love a story about a reformed gangsta turned Christian! I absolutely love Tony’s character in the story, and even Tevin tugged at my heart strings. My heart ache for Tony like how much can one person take? The things he endured during the story is enough to make anyone doubt their faith and just doubt life in general. Yet the entire time you can’t help but root for Tony and want what’s best for him as he was such a lovable character. I am convinced that Tanisha sits around and think of ways to torture us mentally in her stories lol. This was definitely an emotional roller coaster! Per usual, her story did not disappoint and I will forever be team Tony. Well written, and would highly recommend.

['The Book Queen']

In His Hands

Wow, and my goodness. The spiritual side of the story was just enough to feel the message. The storyline showcased the realities of a relationship between a pastor and his wife, which included some sensual acts. With that said, the author also gave readers a gangster brother, a beautiful couple, a few folks struggling with their faith, and an abundance of brotherly love. I recommend this story.

[Brandy Smith]

Tony’s faith was definitely put to the test in this book. He went through some trials and even thou his faith wavered a bit he still pushed through. It’s nice to have guidance from people when you are having life problems.

[Ebony Essence]

Faith..

Talk about testing your faith and relationship with God. Tony had made the changes from when he was young and running wild to be a better him and serve God. His wife and him had a good relationship. Loved the chemistry between them but when the unthinkable happens Tony has to fight through it. Tony was such a nice guy but his pain was taking over. Glad he had his brother Tevin who seen the changes. Tevin had his own story and i enjoyed that as well. In this you can truly see how God was saving Tony and the people around him. No matter how hard Tony was on himself, God wouldn’t let him waste his life.

[Deedeesaidso]

Man Tony went through so much even my faith would have been tested. This is a beautiful story of how now matter what we do God loves still prevails and he will forgive us. Tony's testimony brought me to tears as it had me looking at my own life. I think we make ourselves think that we are so dirty that we can't come to God. I found myself shocked over and over in the first half, and bawling in the second half. This book touched me in a way that has never happened before I'm so glad I got the opportunity to experience this story.

#urbanchristianthriller #arc #tony #twins #adversity #faith #conqueror

[Kenna McNair]

Wow! Tony’s faith was truly put to the test in this story. What is a man supposed to do when he seemingly has it all, only to lose everything in an instant? Tony was a good man, just trying to stay on the straight and narrow path in life.

Then there’s his twin brother, Tevin, who lost his faith long ago and hasn't been the same since. But when Tony hits rock bottom, how will Tevin respond?

I really enjoyed this book. It was my first urban Christian thriller, and it definitely won’t be my last. I am so thankful for my ARC copy from the author. Tanisha Stewart did an excellent job bringing this story to life.

[Elonda]

Guilty Conscience

Guilt will eat at you if you allow it. Try to live righteous! I loved every minute of this novel. I believe you will enjoy the right amount of spice in a Christian setting.

[Tonya Terry]

3.5⭐️ I really enjoy this Christian story. It was heartfelt. Tony struggles with so much. He lost so much early on when he thought he had everything to look forward to.

Even religious people have doubts and trials. How you deal with it matters. Tevin was with his brother through it all.

[BeautifullyFlawedKAH]

All I can say is Tony, Tony, Tony. I wanted to just give him a hug and let him know everything would be okay. Psalm 30:5 For his anger is but a moment, and weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.

Tanisha did it again! Keep them coming. I am sitting on the edge of my seat every time I have one of your books in my hand!

[Renada Boddie]

I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this one as much as I did. Definitely check your triggers. This story doesn’t shy away from some heavy topics, but every moment felt intentional and necessary.
Yes, it’s Christian fiction, but it’s handled with so much care and depth that it didn’t feel forced.

[Sherley's Reading Corner]

𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3.5 Rounded to 4.0 ⭐

𝐈𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 By Tanisha Stewart was a quick and overall enjoyable read. It was an Urban Christian Romance with a mix of Thriller and Suspense.

The overarching message was that just because you’re a Christian, it doesn’t mean you’re exempt from trials and tribulations. Like Job in the Bible, we’re tested and pushed to the edge, but that’s when we have to hold on and trust in the word and know that God has us covered.

In this story, Tony, a newly minted Christian pastor, seems to have it all. He has a loving wife, and a baby on the way. But in an instant, tragedy strikes. His wife is killed in an accident, and Tony spirals. He blames himself and his past sins for the loss of his wife and child, and he questions God’s decision to take them away from him. Tony sets his heart on vengeance, promising to make the person who caused the accident, pay for his loss. His grief, anger, and need for revenge drive the story, and honestly, I never knew what he was going to do next. That unpredictability added a real layer of suspense.

This is a story of loss, vengeance, and ultimately, atonement. While I didn’t agree with all of Tony’s choices, I understood them, and it made me wonder how I might respond if I were in his shoes. He was a tortured soul for much of the book, but the ending brought a sense of redemption and healing that tied everything together beautifully.

Overall, this was a quick but impactful read, and I really enjoyed it.

[Moneaka Redmond]

In His Hands by Tanisha Stewart was an emotional ride that blended grief, faith, vengeance, and forgiveness into one unforgettable story. This was my first Christian thriller, and it was worth every minute.
Watching Tony's faith be shaken after experiencing unimaginable loss was heartbreaking. He spent so much of his life leaving his past behind and dedicating himself to God, only to be faced with a tragedy that tested everything he believed. I appreciated that the story didn't pretend believers are immune to doubt. It showed that even the strongest faith can be challenged when life falls apart.
Tevin was the character who surprised me the most. Even though he had lost his own faith long ago, he became the steady presence Tony needed when everything around him was falling apart. Their relationship added so much depth to the story.
The battle between seeking revenge and trusting God felt real from beginning to end. I found myself wondering which voice Tony would listen to because both felt believable in his circumstances. The ending brought everything together beautifully with hope, healing, and the reminder that forgiveness is often the hardest victory of all.
If you're looking for a suspenseful story with powerful messages about faith, family, and redemption, I highly recommend this one.

[ShicaSheek]

This was a quick yet impactful read that blended Urban Christian Fiction with mystery and suspense.

Tony, a man transformed by God’s grace and training for ministry, seemed to have everything he prayed for: a loving wife, a child on the way, and a new beginning. But in one tragic moment, his world is shattered. What follows is a raw look at grief, anger, and the dangerous pull of revenge.

Tony’s emotions were messy and unpredictable, and at times I didn’t know which path he’d take—leaving it in God's hands or giving in to own need for vengeance. That uncertainty kept the tension high and the pages turning.

What stood out most was how real Tony’s struggle felt. His faith was tested, his choices weren’t always right, but his pain was understandable. This is a story of loss, vengeance, and ultimately forgiveness. The ending tied everything together with a sense of hope and healing for Tony, and reminds us that even in our lowest moments, God still has us in His hands.

[🍬 ⋆ 🍡 🎀 𝒜𝓃𝑔𝑒𝓁𝒾𝒸𝒶 🎀 🍡 ⋆ 🍬]

Thank you Tanisha for my ebook copy!

As a Christian woman, I was so excited to read this book! I’ve always loved Christian romance, so when I saw that this one was also in my favorite genre—Urban—I couldn’t wait to dive in.
This story was an absolute page-turner! The characters felt real and relatable, and I connected with them on both an emotional and spiritual level. My heart truly hurt for Tony and everything he was going through—it seemed like challenge after challenge. The tension of deciding whether to stick to your Christian values or take matters into your own hands was so raw and honest. I’m sure many of us have asked God the same questions Tony was wrestling with.
I highly recommend this book! It’s packed with gems, encouragement, and plenty to think about long after you turn the last page. I finished it in one sitting!

[readandtellwithshantel]

In His Hands
Tanisha Stewart

Tony is a man of God, resolute in his decision to petition for souls. He takes ministering very seriously. After the life he left behind, he is invested. He has no intentions of backsliding.

One moment he has everything he could ever want. He feels safe in the idea that he has the Lord’s favor. But just as quickly, the life he once had is taken away from him. In a twinkling of an eye, his reality is shattered.

In his moments of grief, he is lost. So lost that he lives outside of his mind. It doesn’t seem like anyone can penetrate beyond his devastation. Not for a lack of trying. He has a solid support system, but it doesn’t provide the peace he so desperately needs.

He is tasked with deciding whether vengeance is the Lord’s or something he will take into his own hands.


#readandtellwithshantel #tanishastewart #InHisHands

[Maresha Braswell]

My favorite character was Tevin he was his brothers keeper for real!

This book took me on such an emotional ride. From the very first page, I was pulled into the characters’ struggles, heartbreaks, and moments of growth. There were times I had to pause just to take in the weight of what was happening because the story felt so raw and real.
What I loved most is how Tanisha Stewart weaves life lessons throughout the story. Every chapter seemed to carry a reminder about strength, resilience, and the importance of knowing your worth. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just entertain you—it teaches you something about yourself, relationships, and life in general.

By the time I reached the end, I felt like I had not only read a powerful story but also gained wisdom that will stick with me. In His Hands is emotional, inspiring, and beautifully written—a book that truly leaves a mark.

[Anniee Bee]

In His Hands is a compelling urban Christian thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish. Tanisha Stewart masterfully blends suspense, drama, and faith, creating a story that moves quickly while still delivering meaningful themes.

The characters feel real and their struggles resonate on both an emotional and spiritual level. The tension builds steadily, with twists that keep you guessing without overwhelming the narrative.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers with a strong faith-based foundation and relatable characters. I finished it in one sitting and highly recommend it for an engaging, thoughtful read.

[Shikira Morris]

Tony, Tony, Tony! In His Hands does an excellent job of showing how one’s relationship with God can be. No relationship is perfect. With Tony, we see him struggle when his faith is put to the test. The author skillfully portrays Tony’s internal battle of faith vs flesh…is vengeance his or the Lord’s? His journey felt authentic and relatable in a way. The uncertainty and emotional suspense keeps the pages turning. The spiritual aspects in this novel were perfect was well. Not overdone or overly preachy. This was my first Urban Christian book and I can definitely see myself enjoying more.

Voluntary ARC review

[LaShonda Gilmore]

in his hands

After dealing with a devastating tragedy, this author takes you on a journey through dealing with heartache, grief, spiritual challenges and self reflection to redemption. This story takes you through past mistakes while dealing with the present pain. The suspense of what is going to happen next keeps you turning the pages. This also shows that Christians can go through trials and tribulations as well and no man is perfect. But there are great lessons in this book that are much appreciated.

[Kesha]

This book was a first read for me by this author. It is a Christian-based Thriller. Tony the MMC was a minister in training who was in love with his wife Meeka and trying to be a good role model for his brother, Tevin. Then one day tragedy struck. He had to decide between wanting to get revenge and following God's word and teaching. This story had so many twists that I was not even able to predict the way that this book ended. Tanisha Stewart did a great job with this book, and I am hoping there will be a second part.

[Shauna]

This was an outstanding Christian thriller that kept me turning the pages. Tony and Meka are happily married, expecting their first child, and preparing for an exciting future as Tony steps into ministry. But when tragedy strikes, their world is turned upside down. The story powerfully explores faith, identity, and purpose as Tony wrestles with who he thought he was and who he believes he is meant to be.

Tanisha delivers another gripping, heartfelt read. She has quickly become one of my must-read authors, and I look forward to every new release.

[Khatreenah]

Christian suspense/ thriller!!! Ma’am this book is so good!! It’s a short read but it’s an emotional, thought-provoking, God’s wonder, loving story!! Despite the devastation I felt in the beginning of the book, the ending made it worth it! I literally loved reading how things played out, the realism, and the reminder of God’s goodness despite us. The sound effects and narrations were so on point!!! Loved this so much! It definitely got me out of my reading and church slump!! Let me get back to where I need to be!! This is why Tanisha Stewart is one of my favorite authors!

[Chauni Brown]

A new genre I didn’t know I could rock with

This was a great novella to give me a break from the series I’m currently reading. I didn’t know Christian thriller was a genre but I enjoyed her touch on this. It wasn’t overly churchy to me. I was saying what the fudge throughout the book too many times to count. At no point could I guess what was coming next or predict the ending which is always a good time. I think I may be starting her red series today.

[Demetrica Boling]

Thanks so much for the ebook! So happy I was considered.

The book was a one sit read. As a Christian romance it was amazing I loved it my only question is will there be a book 2? I need to know about Tony and Rebecca lol. This was an emotional read and I couldn’t figure out what was coming next it had me antsy.

[Shannan Harper]

This was a quick read and such a wild ride. It has a multitude of lessons and so emotional. It also showed such a testament of trials that Christians sometimes have to go through. It was also a quick read. I literally finished it in a few hours. I have enjoyed every story I've read from her so far and this one is no exception. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

[Carlos Dancy]

a powerful read

This was a great story about grief, trauma, pain, forgiveness, and redemption. Every character in this story went through some degree of trials and tribulations. I felt for Tony throughout this story. Hopefully he can move forward and pick up the pieces along the way.

[Ms.Dee]

I loved this book, "In His Hands!"
I enjoyed the book from start to finish. I was expecting something totally different from what I was reading.
Tony the main character had a choice to make between the Holy Spirit or his flesh, after a tragic accident had happened.
Sometimes we have to let go & let God...
"Vengeance is mine, says the Lord!". Romans 12:19

[T. Owens-Shegog]

quick read, makes you think

I’m not sure what I expected from this book but it was a really good (quick) read. It prompted me to think about some choices/decisions made in my past and how I dealt with it. It could give hope to ones battling religious commitments

[kourtney]

very good

This is my second book by this author and her writing is very good & eye opening to where you don’t wanna put the book down until you’re finished but wishing for more

[Jawanda Smith]

second chances

I loved this ministry wrapped up in a book. Absolutely powerful and a reminder that each of us must forgive ourselves the way God forgives us.