Chain of Mercy

Coming Home #1

by Brenda S. Anderson

Manhattan businessman Richard Brooks was at the top of the world, drunk with success, wealth, and women, and he proudly lived that prodigal lifestyle, until one disastrous evening, when that world came crashing down.

Richard flees to Minneapolis where he repairs ancient boilers instead of solving corporate problems, and he's determined to live the solitary life he now deserves.

But Executive Sheila Peterson has other plans for the handsome custodian. Richard appears to be the perfect match for the no-strings-attached romance she's after, but she soon discovers that he's hiding more than the designer clothes in his closet.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks

357 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 7, 2014

About the author

Brenda S. Anderson writes authentic and gritty life-affirming fiction that shows God at work in people’s messy lives. She is a founding member of the award-winning, nontraditional publishing company, The Mosaic Collection. When not writing, she enjoys live sports and theater, walking along the shores of Lake Superior, and sharing hot cocoa with friends and family. She lives near Minneapolis with her newly retired husband and their twin mischievous kitties, Mauer and Morneau.

Readers can learn more about Brenda S. Anderson at www.brendaandersonbooks.com

Reviews

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chain of Mercy is the perfect title for this emotional story covering a tough subject, but is handled very well and brought insights into the physical and mental issues of abortion.

The characters of Richard and Sheila appeared real with real strengths and flaws, each struggling with their demons. Richard, a backsliding Christian, and Sheila, unsure if she believes a God exists. Meghan was another character that went from a hate-filled heart but was redeemed and bad turned to good.

I saw God's influence in this insightful and inspirational read and was drawn into the story from the beginning pages. As the story unfolded, it was evident that God used people and equipped them when they felt unqualified for the task. I can't wait to read the rest of the series, and highly recommend it.

I received a copy from Netgalley and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chain of Mercy by Brenda Anderson is a wonderful contemporary Christian romantic novel. It is the first book in the Coming Home series and wow what a series it promises to be. There is just so much in Chain Of Mercy - a fabulous storyline, numerous themes, and a novel that honours God. It is hard to know where to start.
God is very much at the heart of the novel. God is faithful. We may move away from Him but He will never move away from us. Sometimes we use our busyness as an excuse and we drift away from God. "Being busy always kept God at bay." God will wait in the shadows, waiting lovingly for us to return.
The novel shows the need for grace. We all need grace. And we all need to extend grace. We have all sinned but there is no condemnation from Jesus, just love and grace.
A major theme in the novel is forgiveness. We all need to receive forgiveness. We all need to give forgiveness. It is often easier to forgive others than to forgive ourselves. "Everyone's forgiven you. You need to forgive yourself." God says we are loved and forgiven. We need to believe Him. To withhold forgiveness can make one bitter. Life can become a downward spiral. That is when we need to recognise our need for God and for His help to extend forgiveness. Not in our strength but in His.
Prayer is of vital importance. "His knees were going to receive a workout tonight." In times of trouble and uncertainty we need to pray. In times of thankfulness we need to pray. Prayer is a conversation with God.
Chain Of Mercy shows the difference between having religion and having a relationship with God. Going to church will not make you a Christian. Having a relationship with Jesus will alter your life. Living by Jesus' rules will open your eyes to the world around you. Going to church may not alter you in the slightest.
Within the novel there are characters running from God. Some characters run because they mistakenly believe that God could never love them after what they've done. They do not realise that God loves them with an everlasting love. Other characters turn their back on God because they wrongly believe that a God of love would not let bad things happen to Christians. "God had been number one in Justin's life but God had let her brother down." Being a Christian does not make us immune to bad things happening but when they do, we know that God is right there walking alongside us.
Chain Of Mercy shows the value of human life from conception. Our lives and those of others are to be treasured. We are to see each life as more than an inconvenience or a trophy. Each life is precious to God. Each life should be precious to us.
Chain Of Mercy is such a marvellous novel. Brenda Anderson is a wonderful writer who displays depth and sensitivity. The reader gets completely caught up within the pages of her novels, living out the story, rather than just reading the pages. I love everything that Brenda Anderson writes. Her stories always honour God. Her characters are always realistically drawn and easy to empathise with.
Treat yourself today - buy Chain Of Mercy, grab a drink and settle down and immerse yourself within the novel. Let the world go by without you!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good book! I have to admit though that it took awhile for me to get into it. In fact, I put a note at the start of chapter 8 saying I still hadn't figured out what was going on and had no idea how such different characters could have much to do with each other. worst of all there hadn't been any mention of God yet. But by the end of that chapter everything was making sense and God was part of what was going on. I was sure the characters would be linked together soon too. By the time the book was over, I knew it was a real winner. The main character, Richard, had turned away from God when he became an adult. He has a good size family who love him and the Lord though. The main female character, Sheila, is an atheist who hates God and Christians. Her parents didn't want or love her and she was badly hurt by people who called themselves Christians. Both of these people have done things they're ashamed of and they're carrying around a lot of shame and guilt. The author shows how God woos each of them, offering forgiveness, and what that forgiveness can do. I'll read this one again it's amazing!

[Valory Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good read

Again, it is so nice to read a great story without inappropriate language and sexual descriptions. This author turned a story about true vices without crossing the line.
Thanks for another book that can be added to my romance list without descriptions that shame you to read.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s easy to get caught up in wanting to be successful and make a name for yourself, but what happens when the pursuit of wealth leads to disastrous consequences? Richard tries to start over with more humble roots, but Sheila may draw his secrets out.

I enjoyed this story, with its rich characters and beautiful message of forgiveness. We all have things in our life we have needed forgiveness for, so I could relate, somewhat, to Richard.

This is a wonderful story that I highly recommend! I look forward to reading more by the author!

I received this book from just read. This is my honest review.

[Bonny Rambarran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abortion - so many lives affected when a woman aborts her child
The father is affected - and he seldom has a choice. The grandparents are affected. And of course the mother. This is a superb book that shows the different ways each person is affected!! Absolutely a must read book. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chain of Mercy, by Brenda S. Anderson is the first book in the Coming Home series. This story focuses on Richard as he finds himself in a situation of changing occupations and moving back to his home state. After having a extremely successful job in Manhattan, he moves to Minneapolis and works as a janitor. Having lived a life focused on alcohol and women, he is now focusing on turning his life around. With no plans for a real relationship Richard and Sheila spend time together away from work. Their friends ship builds to the point he takes her home to visit his family.

This book is filled so so much meaning and has such a powerful message. We see two different successful people who have pasts they are running from. I enjoyed the parts in the story when Richard goes home to visit his family. The strong bond he has for his nieces and nephews is so heartwarming. It's easy to see the love the family has for each other with how they take time to see each other and be there for each other. I enjoyed this story immensely and appreciated how the author wrote such an inspirational story of overcoming the past and moving forward in Christ. This story does contain topics of pre-marital sex and abortion.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Brenda Poulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woven Together With Love and Purpose

Great characters. Beautiful storyline. The author wove several lives together with a common theme...and did it very well. Enjoyed this uplifting story of forgiveness.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Enjoyable Read

I really enjoyed reading Chain of Mercy. The story addresses a difficult topic from multiple viewpoints, and draws attention to one that is typically not considered. Each character's experiences contributed to the story well, and as it develops you see changes in them that show how God can take some of our darkest moments and bring a good outcome in the end. I recommend reading Chain of Mercy, and look forward to reading the rest of the series and other books by Brenda Anderson.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow...I read the summary for this book and was intrigued to find out more, but this story impacted me a lot more than I expected. Brenda Anderson crafts characters with some serious issues - and infuses their journeys with lots of raw pain, hesitancy, bitterness, and anger. In other words, this book is very real in how it handles people dealing with sins done unto them and sins they've committed - it's not neat and cleaned up easily, but it's messy and hard. Richard was a likable character whose journey to Christ was believable in how he stumbled along the way, choosing to not return to God until his understanding became very personal of what Jesus did on the Cross. Sheila was a sympathetic character - her actions for a good deal of the book may be irritating for the reader as she hinders Richard's return to God, but the glimpses we get into her painful past and the traumas she endured makes her a sympathetic character who evokes a lot of compassion and pity. Definitely recommend this book!

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading Chain of Mercy by Brenda Anderson. I had been wanting to read this book since I first found out about it and I have to say…it surpassed my expectations. It was a story with intricate characters and interweaving storylines. My attention was grabbed and kept through to the last page. This is the first book in her Coming Home series.

These characters share the complexities of real life, they are relatable and “real.” My favorite, probably was Richard. She showed how he struggled with real feelings and how wanting to do the right thing is always best and we always have the strength (from God) but it’s not always easy and sometimes can be misunderstood by others. My heart went out to him starting on page one even though I didn’t realize why at the time. The topics are deep, allowing the reader a chance to escape into a “great book” but it also caused me to think, “What would I do?” if the situation was one I was facing. She also so flawlessly showed how one decision made by one individual has a ripple effect on so many others - affecting others’ lives deeply. Makes me stop and think about my actions and reactions and how they will affect not only myself but those around me - maybe even for years to come. This is Ms. Anderson’s debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what topics she will explore in her next book. Will she continue with the people I’ve connected with or will she introduce me to a whole new group of friends?

Forgiveness is just one of the many themes discussed, but yet it’s so relevant to everyone’s life in some way. We all need forgiveness for something - sometimes in the form of forgiving others, sometimes to forgive ourselves, sometimes a combination of both. I am privileged to have this opportunity to read and review this novel. I would recommend it to everyone - men, women - anyone who enjoys a great book that entertains while reinforcing our real purpose in life. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.

[Miranda A. Uyeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time in a long while that I’ve read a book and closed its last page with a satisfied and well deserved sigh. This is my can’t-put-down book of the year.

The story begins with the hero deciding to do penance for his past mistakes. Life goes on undisturbed until the heroine gets into the picture. From there on it’s a journey of uncommon thrills, hard lessons, and daunting and pivoting experiences. This unforgettable story does not leave the reader the same once you’re through with it, as it will linger on in your mind for days (or even weeks) to come.

Reading this book, it was like the people I began with in the story—though the same characters—were not the same people at the end of it. It felt like I took the journey with each of them, experiencing everything they did on a level that rang true and deep. It was truly transformational in quality.

From a hurting hero, to a heroine whose heart is set in stone on certain convictions, to a family relentless in prayer, love, and forgiveness, as well as a secondary character who’s set on a path to destruction because of the anger and pain from a tragic loss, and her family struggling with grief and seeking answers, comfort, and healing from God because of the same loss—this is an uncommon story written with heart, full of tears, emotions, and believable characters, thoughtfully put together to show God’s redemptive love, mercy, and perchance for miracles in a groundbreaking way. Anderson’s attention to detail in every plot element, especially character development, is precise and epical so that the story establishes its theme in the hearts of her readers. This is one author in the Christian genre that the world should look out for. Her writing is as beautiful as it is exceptional. An absolutely delightful debut to kick-start her career

[Robert Ruesch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brings to light many levels of several subject matters pertinent today in society. Author Anderson is well versed in her subject and presents a great read that is difficult to put down, a challenge to think about, and gives the reader pause for personal reflection.
Read with an open heart, learn about a loving God.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the full length novel prequel (Pieces of Granite), I had to immediately come here and read Ricky’s story. We saw a ton of him in the prequel - I highly recommend reading it first.
This book had great characters and a lot of ups and downs in its storyline. There were some very difficult topics covered. I couldn’t put it down. It was amazing.

[Val Gropp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good solid for today read!

I took a long time to read this..not sure why..except it was in my Kindle Reader? I tend to read paper faster..oops back to the book! Well written, refreshing..not just a Romance! Read it!

[Lisa Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book!

This has to be one of the best books I've read in a while. I was completely riveted through the whole story and cant wait to read the rest of Richard and Sheila's story!

[larry brashear · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wonderful Book!

I truly found this beautiful Christian novel uplifting, encouraging and inspiring. It portrays the many trails and rewards of living life for our Lord!

[Lynai · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's been a while since I last read Christian romance. This book tackles a lot of issues I easily related with. I didn't like Shiela that much but her story taught me more about love and grace.

[Barbara Keigher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this and would recommend. it takes a bit of time to get into it and figure out what is going on, but is worth it.

[Margaret]

From the book:
Manhattan businessman Richard Brooks was at the top of the world, drunk with success, wealth, and women, and he proudly lived that prodigal lifestyle, until one disastrous evening, when that world came crashing down.

Richard flees to Minneapolis where he repairs ancient boilers instead of solving corporate problems, and he's determined to live the solitary life he now deserves.

But Executive Sheila Peterson has other plans for the handsome custodian. Richard appears to be the perfect match for the no-strings-attached romance she's after, but she soon discovers that he's hiding more than the designer clothes in his closet.

My Review:
Honestly, I couldn't stop reading this book. I finished it in one day!

Overall the book was amazing! It's a Christian book and took a lot of challenging issues head on. Abortion, Women's choice/health and peer pressure. These issues which are so sensitive, especially in today's environment, were dealt with in a way that presents the facts without the judgement. I think it's extremely important for readers of this book to realize that there are going to be some uncomfortable moments while reading. I squirmed a few times!!

I feel the author did a great job setting the tone of the story, or actually stories and bringing them together. The characters of Richard, Sheila and Meghan were strong and relatable. As the author told each of their stories, I began to feel a connection with them, and very strong emotions. As she dealt with the challenges each of them face, it became so familiar because I have and many of us have faced some of the same challenges. As the story went on, I could picture how the actions of one person can affect so many directly and indirectly.

I feel like when reading this book, you need to have an open mind and challenge yourself with the information the author is sharing. It will make you think and will definite cause you to rethink some of your beliefs. As a Christian, I believe it is important to constantly reevaluate your positions, not to judge but to be able to look on others without judgement, with loves.

I would recommend this book for young adult and up, I don't know that teens will be able to deal with some of the issues. There are instances of date rape, abortion, and other adult situations.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

An executive who fled from his family after a disagreement with his brother, and made himself a worldly success, shaming his formerly stong Christian values and his family, has gone far from God. After a fight with his current girlfriend, he drives distracted and has a motor vehicle accident which kills an 18 year old boy who was a practicing Christian. He is let go at his high end corporate job and contacts a former employee of the same company, who is from the same area where he grew up, and he starts work in a high end firm as a maintenance man closer to home.
There he catches the eye of a high end female executive looking for a fling with a good looking guy. He sees no reason not to respond to her invitation just this once, but soon finds himself dating her.
Both have secrets in their lives, hers being 2 abortions (one forced by her mother after a date rape at age 16, & the other as a budding career woman. Her mother took her to church to see and be seen by important people in the church her mother chose, but her only teachings were much the same as mine in the same sort of church - condemning hypocrites her mother was set on impressing. She left religion and pushed her success in business. She only wants a fling - until she pushes herself onto him when he is going to see his family.
Although things between the executive and the adults in his family were tense, he adored his nieces and nephews. Soon, so does she, and she gets along with his family a bit better than he does.
As God works on them, will they respond to His knock on their hearts' doors and accept His nudging to confide in one another? Do they have a real future ahead of them, or just another fling?
The development of the characters, including the family of the boy killed in his accident, is well rounded and points to the serious questions God poses to them to draw them each to Him. I highly recommend a patient amd thorough reading of this book,which has 2 sequels.

[Phyllis Freeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A excellent novel of how little success and affluence mean when real life issues surface.

This book enlightens the reader in the matter of a man (Richard Brooks) who loves his family but doesn’t want them to pressure him to return to his faith. He has lived hard trying to keep his own personal hurts and secrets deep within his heart with self-blame.

He lost his only child before it was ever born. This heavily influences his views on women’s right to choose.

The characters struggle with how to forgive others and even themselves. Anderson shows the issues a man wrestles with in the matter of having no choice in the abortion issue.

Very well presented with sensitivity and depth.

[Marsha Johnson Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Excellent Read
I highlighted this from the book, "How could(can) he(you) return to a God who punished the innocent and let the guilty go free?" pg192. This is a legitimate question. It's the question explored in Chain of Mercy. The ultimate answer is forgiveness. Many subject matters are explored among the believable characters as the story unfolds. They rage from work relationships, family dynamics, alcohol use, dating, abortion, unprotected sex and faith. I highly recommend this book which is the first of a series. If it hasn't been made into a movie yet, it should.

[Mary Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book.

This story had strong characters and a really important message about the choices we make and the consequences we will face. This was an education for me in a lot of areas and truly made me think. It so good that I have read it twice.

[Chrystal Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story filled with love, hope, strength and overcoming everything that can be thrown at ones life.

[Jan L · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the prequel I knew I was picking up a story that would be beautifully crafted, challenging, heartwarming and intense. I wasn't disappointed. With the focus on Ricky/Richard this time his character was written exploring the depth of the lovable, deceitful sinner. As Sheila entered the story I groaned because she is so unlikable. Brenda Anderson is skilled at taking flawed characters through the refining process of God's love and forgiveness, however, and by the ending she became a more relatable character. I read almost straight through, and though there is some repetition of troubles, I enjoyed every page.

[christine favorife · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed it! Can’t wait to read the second book!

[Alice LaJuett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't miss this one

You don't want to miss this book! This delves into abortions and how it affects both the mother and the father. I had never heard of post partum abortion syndrome before this book. No matter which side you believe,don't miss this book!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chains...

Chains can bind us or free us. What an excellent read of faith and redemption! "We are our own worst enemy" - how many times have you heard this? This storyteller gets down to the nitty gritty of human feelings, loss, recovery and redemption in the characters she has created!

[Valerie R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of redemption

Sheila and Richard try to find happiness in living lives without a moral compass. But love brings them together and changes their lives.