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Chain of Lakes #1
Shattered Image
Kiera Simmons’ career as a high-profile fashion model ends abruptly when a failed relationship nearly lands her in jail. Now she forges a quiet life helping teens understand their eternal value in a world saturated with the distorted messages of society.
Peter Theisen is on the fast track to everything the celebrity life promises with every step of his meteoric rise in the music world orchestrated by his ambitious manager.
Their sweet, unexpected romance is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation. As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything.
Peter Theisen is on the fast track to everything the celebrity life promises with every step of his meteoric rise in the music world orchestrated by his ambitious manager.
Their sweet, unexpected romance is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation. As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything.
325 pages, ebook
First published March 21, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 14, 2015
Is it possible to be a Christian in the entertainment industry? Kiera is a supermodel. Peter is a rising singing star. Brought together at Kiera’s cousin’s recording studio, they share a strong faith as well as an electric attraction to one another. But Kiera is concerned about the message that all her make up and fashion sends to girls about what makes for true beauty. Peter wonders if he is no more than a puppet on his manager’s string, dangled like a piece of meat to attract women and sell records and concert seats. This is inspirational romantic fiction; it’s “supposed to” have a happy ending, but I wondered right up to the end if it really could with two characters so hurt by the careers they had fought for.
Some romantic fiction manufactures lovers’ quarrels to maintain tension and sustain the story, but here the conflict was very real, based on real career conflicts without simple solutions. Do we really have to choose between outward success and God? I don’t know where Stacy Monson gets her insights into the industry, but it felt authentic to me (except that it might be harder to find real fellow believers than it seemed in the book.) Monson is a Minnesota author, and local readers will appreciate the cultural references to both the Twin Cities and "up north." Thought provoking with a plot that kept me turning the pages.
Some romantic fiction manufactures lovers’ quarrels to maintain tension and sustain the story, but here the conflict was very real, based on real career conflicts without simple solutions. Do we really have to choose between outward success and God? I don’t know where Stacy Monson gets her insights into the industry, but it felt authentic to me (except that it might be harder to find real fellow believers than it seemed in the book.) Monson is a Minnesota author, and local readers will appreciate the cultural references to both the Twin Cities and "up north." Thought provoking with a plot that kept me turning the pages.
March 25, 2020
I always use the disclaimer that "I am not a romance novel reader" when I review this type of book. So if I say the romance part and a few other things stretched on a little too long for my liking, it's because I'm not a fan of the genre. Another thing I don't generally care for is rich, good looking, celebrity characters but in this book I really did like the people and a look into the glam life they had or wanted. What I really liked was that you could substitute just about any real life career/ambition and find that the obstacles couples face are the same and sometimes it takes a lot of communication and devotion to work things out. This story wasn't as shallow and "formulated" as some romance novels and allowed real themes of death, jealousy, dishonesty and distance to play their part.
October 18, 2016
I was given a copy of SHATTERED IMAGE for free in exchange for my honest review.
When I write a review, I don't give a brief summary of the story because that's the role of the cover. If a review tells too much of the story then you might feel like the magic would be lost and not purchase the book. Instead I try to describe how I felt as I read this book. When a book touches my heart like this book did, I find myself trying to hit the correct letters through eyes that still glisten with tears. I had tears in my eyes several times as I read this well-written book from happiness and sadness because I felt the emotions that the characters felt. It's 2:30 A.M. and I Just finished this book. I started it after lunch and literally could not put it down.
I highly recommend this book! I would also like to make a suggestion. This book belongs in the library of every reader that loves Christian Romantic Fiction. So my recommendation is to purchase 2 copies - one for your library and one as a gift to a special friend to have in her library. That way you would have the gift of shared treasured memories.
When I write a review, I don't give a brief summary of the story because that's the role of the cover. If a review tells too much of the story then you might feel like the magic would be lost and not purchase the book. Instead I try to describe how I felt as I read this book. When a book touches my heart like this book did, I find myself trying to hit the correct letters through eyes that still glisten with tears. I had tears in my eyes several times as I read this well-written book from happiness and sadness because I felt the emotions that the characters felt. It's 2:30 A.M. and I Just finished this book. I started it after lunch and literally could not put it down.
I highly recommend this book! I would also like to make a suggestion. This book belongs in the library of every reader that loves Christian Romantic Fiction. So my recommendation is to purchase 2 copies - one for your library and one as a gift to a special friend to have in her library. That way you would have the gift of shared treasured memories.
May 12, 2015
Shattered Image is the first book in the Chain of Lakes series, a great Christian romance by Stacy Monson. It is my first read by her but diffidently not my last. I'm excitedly awaiting book 2. I quickly fell in love with the characters. The romance between Kiera and Peter was an interesting road with both experiencing the same roadblocks in their different careers. The plot gave the message though people may fail us, we are never alone. God is always with us if we let Him be. There is always the possibility of other loves, but who is the God given true love? There was also the message that pride brings a fall, and we must swallow pride and apologize. This is a must read for those who like Christian romance. You will not want to put it down. I was given a free copy for an honest review.
September 25, 2017
I usually don't like books about celebrities, but this one is different and compelling. The story doesn't glamorize the lifestyles of the hero and heroine (a singer just starting his climb to fame and a model disgraced by a scandal involving her former boyfriend). The challenges Christians in the spotlight face are clearly shown and lead to a lot of heartache before the expected happy ending. I smiled and I cried; this story deeply touches the emotions. A beautiful love story and an emotional spiritual story of choosing what is most important in life.
I received a copy of the book from the author, but I voluntarily wrote the review, which expresses my honest opinion.
I received a copy of the book from the author, but I voluntarily wrote the review, which expresses my honest opinion.
May 12, 2015
Shattered Image by Stacy Monson is a heart wrenching book about two souls caught up in the world of being a celebrity and trying to lead a life of faith.
The characters in this story are believable and you find yourself feeling their crisis of faith and struggles throughout the book.
This is truly an inspirational book and makes us look at what is most important in life.
I look forward to more books by this writer.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this story are believable and you find yourself feeling their crisis of faith and struggles throughout the book.
This is truly an inspirational book and makes us look at what is most important in life.
I look forward to more books by this writer.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2016
I am a busy wife and mom to a 7 year old daughter and a 3 year old son. It may have taken me a few months to finish the book, but each time I picked it up, I had a hard time putting it down! Fabulous reading!
November 12, 2016
Keep the tissues handy
Enjoyed this book. Refreshing break from murder mysteries and suspense books I normally read. Character development was great and it showed how much work goes into keeping a long distant relationship going.
Enjoyed this book. Refreshing break from murder mysteries and suspense books I normally read. Character development was great and it showed how much work goes into keeping a long distant relationship going.
February 11, 2018
Tall and beautiful Kiera Simmons’ career as a high-profile fashion model ends abruptly when a failed relationship tarnishes her image and nearly lands her in jail. Now she forges a quiet life helping teens understand their eternal value in a world saturated with the distorted messages of society.
Peter Theisen is on the fast track to everything the celebrity life promises with every step of his meteoric rise in the music world orchestrated by his ambitious manager.
Their sweet, unexpected romance is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation. As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything.
"Shattered Image" is a light romance that shines the beam on the non-glamorous side of being in the spot light with all its challenges and its choices to be made. It is a well-written story of two people thrust into the world of glitz and glamor - one just leaving the shallow world of fame; one eager to enter it. Both struggle to find identity and value in who they are.
Kiera leaves New York and returns to Minnesota. She accepts a receptionist position at her cousin's recording studio where she meets Peter Theisen. While Kiera focuses on helping teens discover the difference between who God says they are, and who society says they should be. The sweet and unexpected romance between Kiera and Peter is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation.
As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything. Peter faces added pressure when his agent puts the the heat on to not get involved with Kiera, but to concentrate on his music career and to become rich and famous.
Author Stacy Monson portrays the subtle, but real, ways Satan tempts even those who have a strong faith and Biblical convictions showing the vulnerability each one of us has. Stacy says, "Fame, celebrity, wealth, and sex appeal are fleeting images. They are hollow accomplishments that in no way define who we really are."
I give Shattered Image a 5-star review. It is well-written and gives a great moral lesson without being the least bit preachy.
Review by: Rita Kroon, author of "Letters from the Past" and "Kiss Your Mommy Goodbye"
Peter Theisen is on the fast track to everything the celebrity life promises with every step of his meteoric rise in the music world orchestrated by his ambitious manager.
Their sweet, unexpected romance is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation. As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything.
"Shattered Image" is a light romance that shines the beam on the non-glamorous side of being in the spot light with all its challenges and its choices to be made. It is a well-written story of two people thrust into the world of glitz and glamor - one just leaving the shallow world of fame; one eager to enter it. Both struggle to find identity and value in who they are.
Kiera leaves New York and returns to Minnesota. She accepts a receptionist position at her cousin's recording studio where she meets Peter Theisen. While Kiera focuses on helping teens discover the difference between who God says they are, and who society says they should be. The sweet and unexpected romance between Kiera and Peter is threatened by her past and his future, a life-changing diagnosis, and financial devastation.
As they struggle to find their way back to each other, and to the One who matters most, the allure of wealth and fame may jeopardize everything. Peter faces added pressure when his agent puts the the heat on to not get involved with Kiera, but to concentrate on his music career and to become rich and famous.
Author Stacy Monson portrays the subtle, but real, ways Satan tempts even those who have a strong faith and Biblical convictions showing the vulnerability each one of us has. Stacy says, "Fame, celebrity, wealth, and sex appeal are fleeting images. They are hollow accomplishments that in no way define who we really are."
I give Shattered Image a 5-star review. It is well-written and gives a great moral lesson without being the least bit preachy.
Review by: Rita Kroon, author of "Letters from the Past" and "Kiss Your Mommy Goodbye"
February 10, 2018
Honestly I almost stopped reading this book at about 70% on my kindle. I was so angry and frustrated. I thought to myself if i'm this emotional with this, then the end has got to be good. Boy was I proven right. She made the characters likable even through the frustration. I think I learned more about myself and communication in this book than most. You are beautiful and not what someone else makes you. Fight for what you believe and who you are.
January 31, 2016
Page-Turning Story with Characters You Really Care For
She’s forced from the spotlight. He can’t wait to jump in.
SHATTERED IMAGE by Stacy Monson is one of the best books I’ve read all year. Using snappy prose, Stacy has penned a story that grabs you at the very first sentence and doesn’t let go until the last. I really liked that the romance between Kiera and Peter grew organically, and didn’t happen at first sight or first touch. And it was so much fun watching the two fall in love! You really want things to work out for them. But huge obstacles are thrown in their paths as he goes off on his music tour, believing he can have it all, while she stays behind to care for her ailing father, wishing Peter was there with her, knowing that fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, praying it doesn’t change him. But it can’t help but change him and her.
Peter and Kiera are lifelike and multi-dimensional characters. I especially like Peter whose bashfulness is adorable. He’s cute, but has no clue, and he’s always stumbling over his words (which Kiera loves). Yet, he’s confident in his musical ability. Whereas Kiera knows she’s beautiful, but she wishes people would see beyond her face and fame to the person and the heart inside (as Peter does). She wants to spread that word to teens through her One of Me program, a program I’d love to see in our schools and churches.
(Also, as a Minnesotan, it was fun seeing our lovely state through a different set of eyes.)
Stacy puts the reader through a gamut of emotions from laughing to crying to wanting to knock some sense into the characters. You care about them that much. She lifts the façade of fame and physical beauty, unveiling the truth. We are so much more than what others see on the outside.
She’s forced from the spotlight. He can’t wait to jump in.
SHATTERED IMAGE by Stacy Monson is one of the best books I’ve read all year. Using snappy prose, Stacy has penned a story that grabs you at the very first sentence and doesn’t let go until the last. I really liked that the romance between Kiera and Peter grew organically, and didn’t happen at first sight or first touch. And it was so much fun watching the two fall in love! You really want things to work out for them. But huge obstacles are thrown in their paths as he goes off on his music tour, believing he can have it all, while she stays behind to care for her ailing father, wishing Peter was there with her, knowing that fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, praying it doesn’t change him. But it can’t help but change him and her.
Peter and Kiera are lifelike and multi-dimensional characters. I especially like Peter whose bashfulness is adorable. He’s cute, but has no clue, and he’s always stumbling over his words (which Kiera loves). Yet, he’s confident in his musical ability. Whereas Kiera knows she’s beautiful, but she wishes people would see beyond her face and fame to the person and the heart inside (as Peter does). She wants to spread that word to teens through her One of Me program, a program I’d love to see in our schools and churches.
(Also, as a Minnesotan, it was fun seeing our lovely state through a different set of eyes.)
Stacy puts the reader through a gamut of emotions from laughing to crying to wanting to knock some sense into the characters. You care about them that much. She lifts the façade of fame and physical beauty, unveiling the truth. We are so much more than what others see on the outside.
December 16, 2016
Warning: This book steals sleep…hours of it. I couldn’t stop reading, even when the clock indicated I was missing my date with the Sandman.
I won’t rehash the back cover text. It’s available everywhere the book is for sale. For the sake of those who might not have seen those blurbs, it’s about a former fashion model who wants nothing more to do with the celebrity life, a singing star on the rise, and a relationship that’s…well, complicated, to say the least.
The author does not make life easy for her characters. She puts them through trial by fire, and she does it with grace, finesse, and tremendous talent. Well-developed characters. A riveting storyline. Writing that truly shines. And, of course, a satisfying conclusion that feels right, but comes only after a realistic, sometimes heartbreaking struggle, and a believable, touching journey.
Shattered Image warms the heart and soul and won’t be easily forgotten. Very highly recommended.
I won’t rehash the back cover text. It’s available everywhere the book is for sale. For the sake of those who might not have seen those blurbs, it’s about a former fashion model who wants nothing more to do with the celebrity life, a singing star on the rise, and a relationship that’s…well, complicated, to say the least.
The author does not make life easy for her characters. She puts them through trial by fire, and she does it with grace, finesse, and tremendous talent. Well-developed characters. A riveting storyline. Writing that truly shines. And, of course, a satisfying conclusion that feels right, but comes only after a realistic, sometimes heartbreaking struggle, and a believable, touching journey.
Shattered Image warms the heart and soul and won’t be easily forgotten. Very highly recommended.
February 12, 2016
What a gloriously written story of the sun setting on the modeling career of Kiera, a supermodel. At the same time, Peter, a newly discovered music star, walks with wonder toward the bright light of celebrity life.
I greatly enjoyed reading my first book written by Stacy Monson. Kiera’s successful New York modeling career crashes due to the financial criminal activity of her boyfriend. Through a series of events, she ends up going back home to the Midwest.
As she regroups and re-discovers life in her childhood hometown, she meets Peter in a beautiful intertwining of romance, hope, dreams and sorrows.
Captivating, Stacy’s writing stirred my heart with richness to the point I lost sleep. I could barely turn off my e-reader and stayed up for hours at a time because I had to know the next twist of the powerful plot.
Amidst the blooming romance, they face epic decisions and heart-felt struggles as they navigate through heartaches as they face her father’s failing health. Both must make difficult decisions as they reflect on what matters most to them.
Although the pain of her career loss cuts to the core, in many ways she realizes the false premises of the foundations of modeling. She heals as she reflects on the message she wants people to receive about their real value.
Stacy Monson is a beautifully talented writer, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Chain of Lakes series.
I greatly enjoyed reading my first book written by Stacy Monson. Kiera’s successful New York modeling career crashes due to the financial criminal activity of her boyfriend. Through a series of events, she ends up going back home to the Midwest.
As she regroups and re-discovers life in her childhood hometown, she meets Peter in a beautiful intertwining of romance, hope, dreams and sorrows.
Captivating, Stacy’s writing stirred my heart with richness to the point I lost sleep. I could barely turn off my e-reader and stayed up for hours at a time because I had to know the next twist of the powerful plot.
Amidst the blooming romance, they face epic decisions and heart-felt struggles as they navigate through heartaches as they face her father’s failing health. Both must make difficult decisions as they reflect on what matters most to them.
Although the pain of her career loss cuts to the core, in many ways she realizes the false premises of the foundations of modeling. She heals as she reflects on the message she wants people to receive about their real value.
Stacy Monson is a beautifully talented writer, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Chain of Lakes series.
January 25, 2016
I wasn’t sure at first what to expect from Shattered Image. It isn’t a title you would normally think of with romance, but that doesn’t make it any less of one. Both Keira and Peter had different lime-lights. Keira is running from an embarrassing investigation, her ex-boyfriend is charged with money laundering and her employer throws her under the bus to save face. Keira wants no part of the spotlight, or camera flash, anymore.
Peter has always thought of himself as a nerd, the one no one thought would ever make it. He’s got a lot to prove. When he meets a record producer (who happens to be a relative of Keira) it seems like he's finally situated to make it big. He is rushing pell-mell to success and leaves Keira far behind.
This book was sweet and emotional, parts cut so deep I had to stop reading to collect myself. Stacy has written the emotion in this book so expertly that I think it would be difficult not to get drawn in. Though we understand what the ending will be (because, this is, in fact, a romance) there is a point when you wonder if it is even possible for these two to repair the damage.
Peter has always thought of himself as a nerd, the one no one thought would ever make it. He’s got a lot to prove. When he meets a record producer (who happens to be a relative of Keira) it seems like he's finally situated to make it big. He is rushing pell-mell to success and leaves Keira far behind.
This book was sweet and emotional, parts cut so deep I had to stop reading to collect myself. Stacy has written the emotion in this book so expertly that I think it would be difficult not to get drawn in. Though we understand what the ending will be (because, this is, in fact, a romance) there is a point when you wonder if it is even possible for these two to repair the damage.
Read
November 10, 2016Kiera had it all, a career, money, and a relationship. With a snap of her fingers, she lost it all. She went back home and found a job as a receptionist. Peter Theison worked on a cruise ship and knew there was more for him. Peter should come see him and he would help him get a career, he jumped at the chance. When Peter went to the first meeting, he could not believe the beauty of the red headed receptionist, Kiera. And so the story begins. Their relationship starts slowly and builds slowly like most relationships do but it does have it's ups and downs.
One thing they have in common is God. As most of us do in life, sometimes we listen to God and sometimes we believe we can do it better ourselves. That happens with Kiera and Peter.
I enjoyed this book so much. I cannot wait to read another of Stacy's books.
One thing they have in common is God. As most of us do in life, sometimes we listen to God and sometimes we believe we can do it better ourselves. That happens with Kiera and Peter.
I enjoyed this book so much. I cannot wait to read another of Stacy's books.
March 13, 2018
Book 1 of 3
*Great book!
*Great book!
December 15, 2016
Kiera struggles to work and help take care of her sick father. The relationship she has with her father is truly wonderful. When Kiera goes to work for her uncle her life will change. Peter is shocked when he meets Kiera. Watching these two become friends is truly remarkable. Watching there relationship change will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. Buck and Joel are also very special people in this book. You will feel God working throughout this whole story. I was given this book for a honest review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions on this book. This book deserves a higher rating than a five star review.
October 2, 2017
Oh my goodness, I had such a hard time putting this DOWN! This is the perfect perfect book for anyone feeling lost in life, love, their faith... and it is so well written.
A fabulous mix of "real life" lives, romance, tough times and Christian literature. Reminds us that if we truly want to live, we need to let God love in us. And at the same time, the book doesn't shove the "God thing" in your face like so many Christian lit books o read in middle school. Really makes me want to pull out my Bible more.
And can somebody, anybody find me a Peter Theisen?!!
A fabulous mix of "real life" lives, romance, tough times and Christian literature. Reminds us that if we truly want to live, we need to let God love in us. And at the same time, the book doesn't shove the "God thing" in your face like so many Christian lit books o read in middle school. Really makes me want to pull out my Bible more.
And can somebody, anybody find me a Peter Theisen?!!
January 2, 2016
What a great read! I absolutely could not put this book down! Kiera and Peter are placed in each other's lives and find they have a lot of similar interests, but have to deal with life...whether it's heartbreak, careers, cancer...this story was filled with emotion! I laughed at the cute things, but found myself crying through the rough times and then wishing I could shake some of the characters when they made stupid choices! I was given this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2017
A Christian romance of a former supermodel returning to her Minnesota hometown after her career falls apart and an up and coming singer reaching for fame on tour. A debut novel for this author that started slowly, but stayed true to building the tensions and distance that made for a good romance. I look forward to book 2.
June 6, 2017
Kiera Simmons’ career as a high-profile fashion model ends abruptly when a failed relationship nearly lands her in jail. Now she forges a quiet life helping teens understand their eternal value in a world saturated with the distorted messages of society.
May 18, 2015
Wonderful debut novel
Stacy Monson has become one of my favorite authors with Shattered Image. This is a must read. I can't wait for Book 2.
Stacy Monson has become one of my favorite authors with Shattered Image. This is a must read. I can't wait for Book 2.
June 24, 2015
I stayed up till the wee hours of Sunday morning to finish this book and was rewarded with the perfect ending. The characters face unusual challenges, and I was swept up in their journey. Loved it!
August 12, 2018
Loved this book! The entertainment industry backdrop was fascinating, and the love story kept me wondering the entire book!!
October 13, 2019
Shattered Image (Chain of Lakes Book1)
This is a very good inspirational story about two people that love each other but stray from God seeking fame and fortune
This is a very good inspirational story about two people that love each other but stray from God seeking fame and fortune
November 30, 2019
3.5 Stars!
June 17, 2020
Kiera seemed to have lost what she thought was all important, which was her modeling career. All it took was trusting in the wrong man. Peter just wanted to be famous and find the girl of his dreams. He found the girl but lost her because he was seeking something that wasn’t satisfying enough. Both Kiera and Peter had to learn some major lessons in knowing what God is intending for you when he puts people in your lives and also obstacles that could block you permanently from your own happiness. But eventually you have to figure out what you want and need and seek it out to make your way in life.
June 11, 2018
We can perhaps begin to understand what it requires to become a famous model, or singer. But do we have any idea what it takes away from the person to be that famous? The author has done a great job of telling us what is involved in the world of fame....the good, the bad and the sometimes not so pretty. How much of yourself would you be willing to give up to live the life of that famous person you admire so much?
July 14, 2021
I was wondering if he would ever come to his senses
He was so obsessed with fame that he was blinded by the reality of what he was doing. Too often, both he and Kierra ignored the nudging of the Holy Spirit. Terese was a good friend to Kierra; Buck was a good Dad. Mark was a good cousin to have in her corner. The title was an apt description of fame: shattered images. Unfortunately, not all individuals reach that level of dissatisfaction.
He was so obsessed with fame that he was blinded by the reality of what he was doing. Too often, both he and Kierra ignored the nudging of the Holy Spirit. Terese was a good friend to Kierra; Buck was a good Dad. Mark was a good cousin to have in her corner. The title was an apt description of fame: shattered images. Unfortunately, not all individuals reach that level of dissatisfaction.
March 24, 2018
Wonderful!
I cried and laughed and cried some more. This journey for Kiki and Peter is up and down over and over. Thinking we can handle things ourselves instead of listening and leaning on God gets us into unhappy places. This is a great story and a good lesson to be open to God's word.
I cried and laughed and cried some more. This journey for Kiki and Peter is up and down over and over. Thinking we can handle things ourselves instead of listening and leaning on God gets us into unhappy places. This is a great story and a good lesson to be open to God's word.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews