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Embers and Ashes #1
Amongst the Flames
AMONGST THE FLAMES is book one of the Contemporary Christian Romance Series, EMBERS & ASHES. Follow the lives of the men of Fire station #9 as they face the fires on and off the job. Inspirational romance stories full of faith, hope and love that will leave you feeling inspired.
“A burning building doesn’t scare me at all compared to the thought of losing you.”
Firefighter Cole Taylor is the man everyone looks up to at Firehouse 9 in downtown Spokane. He’s been at the department for ten years and has no fear when it comes to dangerous situations.
Megan Taylor, Cole’s wife, is a stay-at-home mother of their two boys. She was everything Cole ever wanted in a woman and the perfect wife any man could ask for until one day when she decides to leave Cole.
Cole has fought hundreds of fires in his lifetime, but he had never tasted fear until he came to fighting a fire in his own home. Amongst The Flames is a Christian firefighter romance that tackles real-life situations and problems that exist in Christian marriages today. It brings with it passion, love and spiritual depth that will leave you feeling inspired. This Contemporary Christian Romance novel is one book that you’ll want to read over and over again.
Contemporary Christian Romance - Embers & Ashes Series
(Book 1) Amongst The Flames
(Book 2) Out of the Ashes
(Book 3) Up in Smoke (Fall 2015)
(Book 4) After the Fire (Winter 2015)
“A burning building doesn’t scare me at all compared to the thought of losing you.”
Firefighter Cole Taylor is the man everyone looks up to at Firehouse 9 in downtown Spokane. He’s been at the department for ten years and has no fear when it comes to dangerous situations.
Megan Taylor, Cole’s wife, is a stay-at-home mother of their two boys. She was everything Cole ever wanted in a woman and the perfect wife any man could ask for until one day when she decides to leave Cole.
Cole has fought hundreds of fires in his lifetime, but he had never tasted fear until he came to fighting a fire in his own home. Amongst The Flames is a Christian firefighter romance that tackles real-life situations and problems that exist in Christian marriages today. It brings with it passion, love and spiritual depth that will leave you feeling inspired. This Contemporary Christian Romance novel is one book that you’ll want to read over and over again.
Contemporary Christian Romance - Embers & Ashes Series
(Book 1) Amongst The Flames
(Book 2) Out of the Ashes
(Book 3) Up in Smoke (Fall 2015)
(Book 4) After the Fire (Winter 2015)
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2015
621 people are currently reading
459 people want to read
About the author
T.K. Chapin
108 books245 followersT.K. CHAPIN writes Christian Romance books designed to inspire and tug on your heart strings. He believes that telling stories of faith, love and family help build the faith of Christians and help non-believers see how God can work in the life of believers. He gives all credit for his writing and storytelling ability to God. The majority of the novels take place in and around Spokane Washington, his hometown. Chapin makes his home in the Pacific Northwest and has the pleasure of raising his daughter with his beautiful wife Crystal. To find out more about T.K. Chapin or his books, visit his website at www.tkchapin.com
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Want to read
December 31, 2020I'm very interested in this series. My only reservation is that it's a "christian" book. I am a Christian, a faithful church goer. But too many times a romance like this isn't really what I view as christian behavior. God did not make a woman to be subjugated by a man. He is to love her as he loves himself. As we all know, we love ourselves more than anyone else, even our children (you can argue that one with me until the cows come home, but I see it and I believe it strongly). Therefore, God made a woman and a man equal bc never would we hurt ourselves so egregiously. Well, I'm not accounting for mental illness and I'm not making light of that, just not including it in my thought process for this statement. So, reservations. Supposedly one of the series is going to have a cheat theme, so I may eat my words here and read, lol. And then fume about how authors get "christian" so wrong. 😁
May 5, 2021
Amongst The Flames by T.K. Chapin is, a contemporary Christian fiction with not romance, but restoration of marriage at the heart of it. It's also largely about the life of a fireman, which I previously knew very little about.
Cole is first and foremost, a fireman. A very good one. He cherishes his wife Megan and his two boys, and is a great guy. However, his lack of involvement at home frustrates his wife. We see Cole both at work and at home, and his relationship with God. This book is written in the first person, and is told from Cole's point of view!
What I liked:
*I liked that Cole is about your average guy, and how being a Christian doesn't make him perfect, but helps him figure out how to do life. He still isn't perfect at the end of the book, but is a work in progress.
*I liked the kids in the book. Chapin has a very good handle on what toddler boys are like.
*The depth of information about firemen/firefighting
*The Christian concepts are very biblically sound, even though the main character is definitely far from fairy-tale perfect. Based on this book and Dylan's Faith, my impression is that Chapin's books are especially good candidates for new Christians, or people who aren't sure about how Christianity fits into their lives.
What I didn't like:
*As a whole, I feel T.K. Chapin spins an extremely good tale. However, there are occasionally spots where I feel I would benefit from more background information earlier in the story, or a longer dialogue in sections that are pivotal to the plot.
*I found a number of missing commas, and some run-on sentences. Since I had an ARC (Advance Reader Copy), these issues may be resolved.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary Christian fiction. I recommend it only for older teens and up, as gambling and adultery are addressed.
I received an ARC from the author.
Cole is first and foremost, a fireman. A very good one. He cherishes his wife Megan and his two boys, and is a great guy. However, his lack of involvement at home frustrates his wife. We see Cole both at work and at home, and his relationship with God. This book is written in the first person, and is told from Cole's point of view!
What I liked:
*I liked that Cole is about your average guy, and how being a Christian doesn't make him perfect, but helps him figure out how to do life. He still isn't perfect at the end of the book, but is a work in progress.
*I liked the kids in the book. Chapin has a very good handle on what toddler boys are like.
*The depth of information about firemen/firefighting
*The Christian concepts are very biblically sound, even though the main character is definitely far from fairy-tale perfect. Based on this book and Dylan's Faith, my impression is that Chapin's books are especially good candidates for new Christians, or people who aren't sure about how Christianity fits into their lives.
What I didn't like:
*As a whole, I feel T.K. Chapin spins an extremely good tale. However, there are occasionally spots where I feel I would benefit from more background information earlier in the story, or a longer dialogue in sections that are pivotal to the plot.
*I found a number of missing commas, and some run-on sentences. Since I had an ARC (Advance Reader Copy), these issues may be resolved.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary Christian fiction. I recommend it only for older teens and up, as gambling and adultery are addressed.
I received an ARC from the author.
September 20, 2015
Just touching bases with y’all. I actually finished this novel on Monday night…. But I got so excited when my Queen of Shadows pre-ordered copy downloaded to my kindle that I started it right after I finished this book. Queen of Shadows will be a different review — I plan on finishing it tonight or tomorrow!
So — Amongst the Flames by T.K. Chapin is a Christian romance novel about a fireman who gets hurt and is forced to stay home to recuperate. While the fireman is at home, it is shown to the reader that the husband and wife have a very unhealthy relationship, including that of the father with his two young sons.
This novel, though short, had quite an impact on me. As a newborn to the Christian faith, I found this story to be very moving. The wife leaves her husband and the husband turns to God. He turns to the Bible and his friend who is very well versed in the Biblical readings. I loved how the main character, Cole, knew he loved God but realized he hadn’t spent enough time reading God’s story, reading God’s word.
This story made me want to grab my Bible and start reading it. It was touching. Even when the story takes a disappointing turn when Cole finds out about his wife’s infidelity and he is hurt beyond belief. It made me happy that Cole was able to look passed it and move on and try to rebuild their relationship. It was also lovely that Cole’s wife decides that she needs more God in her life, also.
4 solid stars.
So — Amongst the Flames by T.K. Chapin is a Christian romance novel about a fireman who gets hurt and is forced to stay home to recuperate. While the fireman is at home, it is shown to the reader that the husband and wife have a very unhealthy relationship, including that of the father with his two young sons.
This novel, though short, had quite an impact on me. As a newborn to the Christian faith, I found this story to be very moving. The wife leaves her husband and the husband turns to God. He turns to the Bible and his friend who is very well versed in the Biblical readings. I loved how the main character, Cole, knew he loved God but realized he hadn’t spent enough time reading God’s story, reading God’s word.
This story made me want to grab my Bible and start reading it. It was touching. Even when the story takes a disappointing turn when Cole finds out about his wife’s infidelity and he is hurt beyond belief. It made me happy that Cole was able to look passed it and move on and try to rebuild their relationship. It was also lovely that Cole’s wife decides that she needs more God in her life, also.
4 solid stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2019
Amongs the Flames is a christian romance written from the husband's POV. It deals with real life marital issues and not the typical new love butterflies. It was a great road map to follow for allowing God to drive your marriage and working in his word rather than letting your own emotions and hurts run the show.
That being said I'm actually surprised at how many reviews I've read on this book that had a huge problem with Cole. I felt so bad for him throughout the book. Yes, Cole was dropping the ball as a husband in many areas, but there is no indication that Megan actually sat him down to discuss any of these issues with him. She just up and leaves one day. Not only that but she takes their kids and lies to him telling him that she's going to visit her sister. She can't even be honest with him about leaving. I am a wife and mother. Believe me I get the frustrations of feeling like you are doing it all. But, I talk to my husband. I tell him what we need. I don't understand just walking away. And God bless Cole he takes responsibility as he starts to see his contribution to their marital demise and steps up to fix himself in Christ and their marriage as well. Is that good enough for Megan? Well, it depends on the day. She runs so hot and cold. I really had a hard time liking her as a character.
Overall the story was well written and will definitely elicit emotions from the reader. Even more importantly it will help you grow in your faith in God. I really enjoyed how Cole's friend Micah would instruct him to pray and stay in God's word. This is great advice for everything in life.
That being said I'm actually surprised at how many reviews I've read on this book that had a huge problem with Cole. I felt so bad for him throughout the book. Yes, Cole was dropping the ball as a husband in many areas, but there is no indication that Megan actually sat him down to discuss any of these issues with him. She just up and leaves one day. Not only that but she takes their kids and lies to him telling him that she's going to visit her sister. She can't even be honest with him about leaving. I am a wife and mother. Believe me I get the frustrations of feeling like you are doing it all. But, I talk to my husband. I tell him what we need. I don't understand just walking away. And God bless Cole he takes responsibility as he starts to see his contribution to their marital demise and steps up to fix himself in Christ and their marriage as well. Is that good enough for Megan? Well, it depends on the day. She runs so hot and cold. I really had a hard time liking her as a character.
Overall the story was well written and will definitely elicit emotions from the reader. Even more importantly it will help you grow in your faith in God. I really enjoyed how Cole's friend Micah would instruct him to pray and stay in God's word. This is great advice for everything in life.
May 5, 2021
Cole Taylor has fought many fires in his career as a firefighter, but now he is fighting the biggest battle of them all. The battle to save his marriage.
This beautifully written novel could well read as a how-to guide to restore the life and faith in your marriage. This is a new-to-me author, but I look forward to reading the other books in this series about the fellow firefighters at a particular fire station in Spokane, Washington. I am sure they each have a wonderful story to tell both in their daily life at the fire station as well as in their personal Christian walk.
This beautifully written novel could well read as a how-to guide to restore the life and faith in your marriage. This is a new-to-me author, but I look forward to reading the other books in this series about the fellow firefighters at a particular fire station in Spokane, Washington. I am sure they each have a wonderful story to tell both in their daily life at the fire station as well as in their personal Christian walk.
April 7, 2017
I'm upset that I feel compelled to give this book such a low rating, but I hope that you'll understand after reading my review.
First and foremost, let me state that I am a Christian and I enjoy books that proclaim God's truth in a non-judgmental way. I feel like the author accomplished that in this book. I don't necessarily agree with what happened with the MCs' marriage, but that's besides the point. I also appreciate a clean book. This one had absolutely no foul language or any explicit intimate scenes. However, a message I like and clean content do not necessarily a good story make.
The marriage between the MCs is very realistic and I could see what happened to them happening to many young couples, Christian or otherwise. Both MCs are flawed, since they're, you know, human. The H could be a lot more present at home and the h could be a little bit more vocal in her struggles and frustration. However, while the H is simple a little clueless, the h is awful. She leaves her husband and takes the kids, telling him that she's going on a trip to visit her sister. She never tells him she's leaving him; he had to find that out from her parents. When he calls her and asks her when she's coming home, she tells him that she isn't willing to try work on their marriage any more. There's no discussion. The husband is willing to try and make things work, but the wife is just done. Then she goes out to a bar and has a one night stand.
I was going to put that detail in a set of those spoiler bracket things, but I feel like people need to know that fact before starting this book. That is not what I wanted to read about and while no details are given, the h never apologizes. The H decides to forgive her (he's seriously a saint because I could forgive but never forget or trust again) and continue to fight for their marriage. But he has a hard time trusting her again and when the wife realizes this, does she apologize? Nope. She gets mad, frustrated, and yells at him. Honestly?
Overall the writing was not strong. The character development was shallow and there was almost not backstory to help the reader feel invested. You're just dumped straight into a marriage that's falling apart. Plus the h, her sister, and their father were not very nice people and I feel like the author used the message of Christ to teach that we should just forgive, forgive, forgive, and be doormats, without ever really talking about our problems. The rest of this story was also kind of boring; the firefighting scenes were even a little lackluster. The dialogue was stilted and there was a lot of telling not showing. I guess this author's writing style just didn't really mesh with me.
One star for a clean story with a nice message of forgiveness.
First and foremost, let me state that I am a Christian and I enjoy books that proclaim God's truth in a non-judgmental way. I feel like the author accomplished that in this book. I don't necessarily agree with what happened with the MCs' marriage, but that's besides the point. I also appreciate a clean book. This one had absolutely no foul language or any explicit intimate scenes. However, a message I like and clean content do not necessarily a good story make.
The marriage between the MCs is very realistic and I could see what happened to them happening to many young couples, Christian or otherwise. Both MCs are flawed, since they're, you know, human. The H could be a lot more present at home and the h could be a little bit more vocal in her struggles and frustration. However, while the H is simple a little clueless, the h is awful. She leaves her husband and takes the kids, telling him that she's going on a trip to visit her sister. She never tells him she's leaving him; he had to find that out from her parents. When he calls her and asks her when she's coming home, she tells him that she isn't willing to try work on their marriage any more. There's no discussion. The husband is willing to try and make things work, but the wife is just done. Then she goes out to a bar and has a one night stand.
I was going to put that detail in a set of those spoiler bracket things, but I feel like people need to know that fact before starting this book. That is not what I wanted to read about and while no details are given, the h never apologizes. The H decides to forgive her (he's seriously a saint because I could forgive but never forget or trust again) and continue to fight for their marriage. But he has a hard time trusting her again and when the wife realizes this, does she apologize? Nope. She gets mad, frustrated, and yells at him. Honestly?
Overall the writing was not strong. The character development was shallow and there was almost not backstory to help the reader feel invested. You're just dumped straight into a marriage that's falling apart. Plus the h, her sister, and their father were not very nice people and I feel like the author used the message of Christ to teach that we should just forgive, forgive, forgive, and be doormats, without ever really talking about our problems. The rest of this story was also kind of boring; the firefighting scenes were even a little lackluster. The dialogue was stilted and there was a lot of telling not showing. I guess this author's writing style just didn't really mesh with me.
One star for a clean story with a nice message of forgiveness.
January 1, 2016
This is a great book! It is a very real book. Where most romance books focus on the falling in love stage, this book is about saving a marriage and unconditional love. I liked reading a book with a different focus on romance. Cole is a firefighter, a husband and a father. He thinks everything in his marriage is great. Then his wife leaves and takes his two boys. He learns that it is only by turning to God that his marriage might be saved. As he grows closer to God, can he learn to love his wife unconditionally? The story is written if first person from Cole's perspective, and it is wonderful to see the changes in his thinking as he comes to know God. But I appreciated that those changes weren't immediate. He had to work at them. The guys at the firehouse were great! They all cared so much about each other even with their varied personalities. This book definitely helps you appreciate firefighters and what they face each day. This is an inspiring book and makes me want to do better.
Thank you to the author for giving me a book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author for giving me a book in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2015
I really enjoyed this story. It is a compelling story of a fireman and his relationship with his wife and with his buddies at the station. The author pictures so clearly the dangers that a a fireman faces every time they receive a call and the strain that can have on his marriage. The author also has written a wonderful story showing how God can work in a marriage and in other relationships to bring forgiveness and restoration. I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review, and this is another one from this author that I certainly do recommend.
February 16, 2018
I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
If I could give this book to every Christian married couple, I would.
Though this book may be a work of fiction, as one reads the story, you can tell that the author is drawing from real-life personal situations and applying them to this story.
I find a lot of Christian romances to be very cheesy, as far as they typically just pray about the situation and everything immediately gets better, but it's completely different with Amongst The Flames.
The author makes it evident that love is a daily choice, and that even when we think we're doing everything "right", the struggles and hardships are still going to be there. I loved this story and recommend it to couples especially, but also to single men and women. There is a lot that could be learned from this book even for those of us who aren't married yet.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
This review was originally published on LiteratureApproved.com
If I could give this book to every Christian married couple, I would.
Though this book may be a work of fiction, as one reads the story, you can tell that the author is drawing from real-life personal situations and applying them to this story.
I find a lot of Christian romances to be very cheesy, as far as they typically just pray about the situation and everything immediately gets better, but it's completely different with Amongst The Flames.
The author makes it evident that love is a daily choice, and that even when we think we're doing everything "right", the struggles and hardships are still going to be there. I loved this story and recommend it to couples especially, but also to single men and women. There is a lot that could be learned from this book even for those of us who aren't married yet.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
This review was originally published on LiteratureApproved.com
April 22, 2021
my favorite quote from the book, it says a burning building does not scare me like the thought of losing you
August 20, 2015
Amongst The Flames by TK Chapin is a very pleasant story on the surface, but delve underneath and it is so much more, and I was blessed to receive a copy. Amongst The Flames is very much grounded in godly principles. It is a story about a marriage - what marriage means to God; what marriage means to us; how important it is to work at a marriage and to include God in your marriage.
The novel also deals with the themes of forgiveness and forgetting. God forgives our sins and then chooses to forget them. As humans we sometimes find it hard to forgive, and impossible to forget. That is where we need to partner with God to enable us to move forward into the future, and to leave the past firmly in the past.
Cole is a brave, trustworthy fire fighter, and as such I liked him, however as a husband, I found him less endearing. To begin with, my sympathies lay firmly with Cole's wife Megan, but as the novel progressed my sympathies and loyalties blurred. TK Chapin is a remarkable writer to be able to draw his characters that evoke strong emotions within his readers. The novel is written in the first person from the point of view of Cole, and as such one would normally be on the side of him. However I found myself on the outside looking in, and therefore able to make more detached character judgements. Incredibly clever writing from TK Chapin to enable me to do this.
Amongst The Flames had God at the very heart of the novel. Cole had lapsed in his faith and taken his eyes off God. He needed a godly friend to come alongside him who would ask intimate questions about his faith and point him back to God. Cole would need to decide himself whether to fix his eyes on God, or not.
Amongst the Flames is a portrait of a marriage. It shows both sides. It reveals that a marriage may crumble through no big event, merely daily neglect. And conversely for a marriage to work, it takes daily work and a partnership with God.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amongst The Flames. I was surprised at the conflicting emotions I had to the character of Cole. I think it would be interesting to hear how male readers respond to Cole.
I always love reading fiction by TK Chapin. I know that it will be a good story with a strong dose of faith and a grounding in God. If you enjoy Christian fiction and have not yet picked up a novel by TK Chapin, then I urge you to do so today.
The novel also deals with the themes of forgiveness and forgetting. God forgives our sins and then chooses to forget them. As humans we sometimes find it hard to forgive, and impossible to forget. That is where we need to partner with God to enable us to move forward into the future, and to leave the past firmly in the past.
Cole is a brave, trustworthy fire fighter, and as such I liked him, however as a husband, I found him less endearing. To begin with, my sympathies lay firmly with Cole's wife Megan, but as the novel progressed my sympathies and loyalties blurred. TK Chapin is a remarkable writer to be able to draw his characters that evoke strong emotions within his readers. The novel is written in the first person from the point of view of Cole, and as such one would normally be on the side of him. However I found myself on the outside looking in, and therefore able to make more detached character judgements. Incredibly clever writing from TK Chapin to enable me to do this.
Amongst The Flames had God at the very heart of the novel. Cole had lapsed in his faith and taken his eyes off God. He needed a godly friend to come alongside him who would ask intimate questions about his faith and point him back to God. Cole would need to decide himself whether to fix his eyes on God, or not.
Amongst the Flames is a portrait of a marriage. It shows both sides. It reveals that a marriage may crumble through no big event, merely daily neglect. And conversely for a marriage to work, it takes daily work and a partnership with God.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amongst The Flames. I was surprised at the conflicting emotions I had to the character of Cole. I think it would be interesting to hear how male readers respond to Cole.
I always love reading fiction by TK Chapin. I know that it will be a good story with a strong dose of faith and a grounding in God. If you enjoy Christian fiction and have not yet picked up a novel by TK Chapin, then I urge you to do so today.
September 13, 2015
Amongst the Flames by T. K. Chapin is an excellent Christian fiction on restoring marriage and developing a closer relationship with God. The book is written from the view of Cole Taylor who is a fire fighter in Spokane. His life is perfect in his eyes. Cole is married to a beautiful woman and has two small children. He is a dedicated fire fighter and loves the rush of adrenaline that comes with performing his duties. Cole is respected by his colleagues and enjoys the weekly poker games and golf outings with the “boys.” He believes in God and is a Christian although he does not seek a close relationship with the Lord. Yep, his life is pretty good. Then, he gets hurt in rescuing a little girl from a burning building which puts him out of commission for at least six weeks. How will he handle having to sit at home with his wife and rambunctious children? He is used to fighting fires and saving lives! Then, his wife informs him that she is taking the boys to Seattle to visit her sister who is going through a divorce. What?! He is recuperating, and she is leaving him to fend for himself? After a few days, he finds out through his in-laws that his wife has actually left him. Their marriage and life that was perfect in his eyes is not so perfect in hers. How will he deal with this on top of healing physically? Read, pray, and get closer to God is the advice of a spiritual colleague. Will Cole take his advice? Can he forgive others as Jesus forgave him? Amongst the Flames is a delightful book of redemption and forgiveness in developing a closer relationship with God. I would recommend this quick read for anyone struggling in their marriage or with facing forgiving a spouse. This is the first Christian Romance that I have read by Mr. Chapin, but I am definitely interested in reading his books. I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review**
This was a Christian romance about a fire-fighter who had lost his way with his marriage and neglected his wife.
This romance was told from the fire-fighter, Cole’s point of view and I have to say, he did annoy me to begin with as I could clearly see him mistreating his wife. He would hang out with his friends and work colleagues instead of spending time with his wife and two young sons.
I was pleased that Megan left him as I think he needed something drastic to occur to make him realise that his behaviour was not great.
The storyline did make me shed a tear because I felt for Megan, and could relate to her (although she did blow hot and cold quite often.) I was so angry with Cole, but I could also feel his bewilderment as to the reason why his marriage deteriorated.
I was aware that this was a Christian Romance when I agreed to review it, and as I am not a Christian my feminist side did become angered at some of the statements made about the ‘woman’s’ role in the marriage.
I had to temper my reaction quite a bit every time Megan thanked Cole for doing something like washing up or looking after their sons. They are also Cole’s sons! Cole never thanked Megan for all the work she put taking care of him and their children.
I would recommend this for lovers of faith romances with a twist as it is from the point of view of the hero, and is also about a couple who have been married for several years, as opposed to a ‘new’ couple.
My favourite line from the book: "Real men cry, Brother".
Reviewed by Libby at www.whisperingstories.com
This was a Christian romance about a fire-fighter who had lost his way with his marriage and neglected his wife.
This romance was told from the fire-fighter, Cole’s point of view and I have to say, he did annoy me to begin with as I could clearly see him mistreating his wife. He would hang out with his friends and work colleagues instead of spending time with his wife and two young sons.
I was pleased that Megan left him as I think he needed something drastic to occur to make him realise that his behaviour was not great.
The storyline did make me shed a tear because I felt for Megan, and could relate to her (although she did blow hot and cold quite often.) I was so angry with Cole, but I could also feel his bewilderment as to the reason why his marriage deteriorated.
I was aware that this was a Christian Romance when I agreed to review it, and as I am not a Christian my feminist side did become angered at some of the statements made about the ‘woman’s’ role in the marriage.
I had to temper my reaction quite a bit every time Megan thanked Cole for doing something like washing up or looking after their sons. They are also Cole’s sons! Cole never thanked Megan for all the work she put taking care of him and their children.
I would recommend this for lovers of faith romances with a twist as it is from the point of view of the hero, and is also about a couple who have been married for several years, as opposed to a ‘new’ couple.
My favourite line from the book: "Real men cry, Brother".
Reviewed by Libby at www.whisperingstories.com
September 11, 2015
This was the first book I have been asked to review. I generally do not write reviews unless the book really speaks to me in some way. The funny thing is that I got the message from TK to review the book and I had already downloaded it from Amazon. I believe that I would have been personally led to leave a review of this book upon finishing even if not having been asked to do so.
Amongst the Flames was a read covering some really tough issues in a marriage. Issues that none are immune to, even really good Christian marriages. For this reason, I applaud this book. I generally do not highlight in my books, but there were several instances that I just had to stop and re-read. "Just keep smiling and loving God, that's all you can do. I will admit it was harder when we were younger, but it got better with age. (Ch. 16 p. 211)." I loved that this book was covered from the perspective of a man, and would like to read more books that take this angle. For that reason alone, I would recommend this book, but there was a lot more meat to it than I first anticipated. Megan was hard to like sometimes, but a woman I think many could identify with.
Another quote, "And I knew right then with God providing me the peace and strength I needed, I was equipped to stay with my wife (Ch 16 p. 213)." This statement alone, could be a devotional with accompanying scripture.
Thanks TK for reaching out to me personally to review your book. I look forward to following your journey of writing "real" books.
Amongst the Flames was a read covering some really tough issues in a marriage. Issues that none are immune to, even really good Christian marriages. For this reason, I applaud this book. I generally do not highlight in my books, but there were several instances that I just had to stop and re-read. "Just keep smiling and loving God, that's all you can do. I will admit it was harder when we were younger, but it got better with age. (Ch. 16 p. 211)." I loved that this book was covered from the perspective of a man, and would like to read more books that take this angle. For that reason alone, I would recommend this book, but there was a lot more meat to it than I first anticipated. Megan was hard to like sometimes, but a woman I think many could identify with.
Another quote, "And I knew right then with God providing me the peace and strength I needed, I was equipped to stay with my wife (Ch 16 p. 213)." This statement alone, could be a devotional with accompanying scripture.
Thanks TK for reaching out to me personally to review your book. I look forward to following your journey of writing "real" books.
January 10, 2016
*ARC provided by Author*
Beware of Spoilers!
Personal Review:
This was a Christian romance about a fire-fighter who had lost his way with his marriage and neglected his wife. This romance was told from the Cole’s point of view and I have to say, he did annoy me to begin with as I could clearly see him mistreating his wife. He would hang out with his friends and work colleagues instead of spending time with his wife and two young sons.
I was pleased that Megan left him as I think he needed something drastic to occur to make him realise that his behaviour was not great.
This romance did make me shed a tear because I felt for Megan and could relate to her (although she did blow hot and cold quite often). I was so angry with Cole but I could also feel his bewilderment as to the reason why his marriage deteriorated.
I was aware that this was a Christian Romance when I agreed to review it, and as I am not a Christian, my feminist side did become angered at some of the statements made about the ‘woman’s’ role in the marriage. I had to temper my reaction quite a bit every time Megan thanked Cole for doing something like washing up or looking after their sons. They are also Cole’s sons! Cole never thanked Megan for all the work she put into the marriage.
I would recommend this for lovers of faith romances with a twist as it is from the POV of the hero and is also about a couple of have been married for several years as opposed to a ‘new’ couple.
Favourite line: “Real men cry, Brother”
3 star read
Beware of Spoilers!
Personal Review:
This was a Christian romance about a fire-fighter who had lost his way with his marriage and neglected his wife. This romance was told from the Cole’s point of view and I have to say, he did annoy me to begin with as I could clearly see him mistreating his wife. He would hang out with his friends and work colleagues instead of spending time with his wife and two young sons.
I was pleased that Megan left him as I think he needed something drastic to occur to make him realise that his behaviour was not great.
This romance did make me shed a tear because I felt for Megan and could relate to her (although she did blow hot and cold quite often). I was so angry with Cole but I could also feel his bewilderment as to the reason why his marriage deteriorated.
I was aware that this was a Christian Romance when I agreed to review it, and as I am not a Christian, my feminist side did become angered at some of the statements made about the ‘woman’s’ role in the marriage. I had to temper my reaction quite a bit every time Megan thanked Cole for doing something like washing up or looking after their sons. They are also Cole’s sons! Cole never thanked Megan for all the work she put into the marriage.
I would recommend this for lovers of faith romances with a twist as it is from the POV of the hero and is also about a couple of have been married for several years as opposed to a ‘new’ couple.
Favourite line: “Real men cry, Brother”
3 star read
September 3, 2015
“This is not a story you’ll find on the front page of your local newspaper while you’re sipping your morning cup of coffee. You also won’t catch it on the ten o’clock news. Nope. Instead, it’s a story that will inspire you to look at life differently and challenge you to believe that with God even the worst fire you face is nothing in comparison with His power, grace and mercy.”
Yes, I was hooked with the prologue of this book and T.K. Chapin writes a compelling novel. Cole Taylor is a firefighter, and this is his story. It is written in 1st person, and is very well done. It is a story we can all relate to on one level or another.
Cole Taylor is a leader at his Firehouse in Spokane, but he learns the hard way that God wants him to be a leader in his home. He is a kind hearted man and loves his wife and children. It takes his wife, Megan, leaving with the children for Cole to learn to trust God and put Him first.
This is a touching story and I found it captivating being told from Cole’s perspective. It is an inspiring account of love and betrayal that are trumped by grace, mercy, and forgiveness. I loved it and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Yes, I was hooked with the prologue of this book and T.K. Chapin writes a compelling novel. Cole Taylor is a firefighter, and this is his story. It is written in 1st person, and is very well done. It is a story we can all relate to on one level or another.
Cole Taylor is a leader at his Firehouse in Spokane, but he learns the hard way that God wants him to be a leader in his home. He is a kind hearted man and loves his wife and children. It takes his wife, Megan, leaving with the children for Cole to learn to trust God and put Him first.
This is a touching story and I found it captivating being told from Cole’s perspective. It is an inspiring account of love and betrayal that are trumped by grace, mercy, and forgiveness. I loved it and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
September 7, 2015
This is not your typical romance novel. This book deals with a married couple and is told in the first person, from the mans point of view, which is not the normal. I enjoyed that it was coming from a different angle though. It is about struggles, forgiveness, trusting God and others. Being a mother of boys and a sister of a fireman, I enjoyed the setting and point of view very much.
Cole Taylor, a firefighter, Is just your typical fireman. They put their lives on the line all the time. However his hardest battle is when his wife, Megan, decides to leave him. He is not prepared for all the heartache, betrayal, and anger he must face. When he finally puts his trust in God will he be able to become the man he knows he needs to be in-spite of whatever choices and decisions his wife will make?
We never really see what Megan is thinking, as I said it is written in first person from Cole's point of view. There were times in the book I wanted to shake them both and times I am not sure I would have handled the situation as it was. That being said it is a great novel on marriage and forgiveness. When life throughs you a curve how will you handle it. Will you come out a better or bitter person.
I was given a copy of this novel from the author for my honest review.
Cole Taylor, a firefighter, Is just your typical fireman. They put their lives on the line all the time. However his hardest battle is when his wife, Megan, decides to leave him. He is not prepared for all the heartache, betrayal, and anger he must face. When he finally puts his trust in God will he be able to become the man he knows he needs to be in-spite of whatever choices and decisions his wife will make?
We never really see what Megan is thinking, as I said it is written in first person from Cole's point of view. There were times in the book I wanted to shake them both and times I am not sure I would have handled the situation as it was. That being said it is a great novel on marriage and forgiveness. When life throughs you a curve how will you handle it. Will you come out a better or bitter person.
I was given a copy of this novel from the author for my honest review.
September 5, 2015
I was lucky to get a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
It seemed I listened in on personal conversations throughout this story.
I love Cole. He's comfortable with himself and doesn't have anything to prove. He isn't a pushover. Cole seems to have a good life. He loves his job as a firefighter, his brothers at station 9, his wife Megan and their two boys. I love his honest, unassuming, down to earth tone. He's comfortable with the pace of his life and feels blessed.
His wife Megan has a different perspective. It hurts to see her reality. It hits a lot of sore spots as things slowly unravel. The burn truly catches fire.
Cole's a confident guy but wise enough to recognize his need to reach out for help in this crises. A good friend is there for him, and points him in the right direction. I really like the comradarie among the firefighters.
A couple game changers emerge before the end.
I kind of wanted to corner Megan and make that woman talk. She seemed torn, confused on what she even wanted, influenced by her past and her family members' perceptions, sending mixed messages. But unconditional love, wow.
It seemed I listened in on personal conversations throughout this story.
I love Cole. He's comfortable with himself and doesn't have anything to prove. He isn't a pushover. Cole seems to have a good life. He loves his job as a firefighter, his brothers at station 9, his wife Megan and their two boys. I love his honest, unassuming, down to earth tone. He's comfortable with the pace of his life and feels blessed.
His wife Megan has a different perspective. It hurts to see her reality. It hits a lot of sore spots as things slowly unravel. The burn truly catches fire.
Cole's a confident guy but wise enough to recognize his need to reach out for help in this crises. A good friend is there for him, and points him in the right direction. I really like the comradarie among the firefighters.
A couple game changers emerge before the end.
I kind of wanted to corner Megan and make that woman talk. She seemed torn, confused on what she even wanted, influenced by her past and her family members' perceptions, sending mixed messages. But unconditional love, wow.
November 18, 2015
Firefighter Cole and his wife, Megan, seem to have a perfect marriage. Everything is fine, until Cole hurts his arm in a fire, and something changes in their relationship. With Megan planning to leave him, Cole looks at himself and realized the kind of husband he has become. A man who needs to put his priorities in the right place...and man who needs to look to God.
The writing is simple, but the author gets his point across quite well. God should be the centre of a marriage. Without Him, it will fall apart. Both men and women will enjoy this book, and although it is classified as a romance, don't think it is like a lot of romance books out there. There is more talk of Christianity then romance.
*Thank you to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The writing is simple, but the author gets his point across quite well. God should be the centre of a marriage. Without Him, it will fall apart. Both men and women will enjoy this book, and although it is classified as a romance, don't think it is like a lot of romance books out there. There is more talk of Christianity then romance.
*Thank you to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2015
Overall, a good story, and a good lesson. It features the day-to-day struggles that husbands, wives, and parents face every day. No fantasy ever after. Life is work, but you can always choose to have joy. And if the couple keeps Christ first and foremost in their marriage and family, anything is possible and love abides all the more...
To read the fully review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
To read the fully review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
March 8, 2016
Another novel about a second chance for a couple by the help of faith in God.
The significant difference: opposite to all the similar books I've read over the years this is written from the POV of the husband and seems to be meant for male readers.
The firefighter scenes add a bit of suspense to an every-day-story most married couples can relate to.
Thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The significant difference: opposite to all the similar books I've read over the years this is written from the POV of the husband and seems to be meant for male readers.
The firefighter scenes add a bit of suspense to an every-day-story most married couples can relate to.
Thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2015
This is a good book with a good message! The characters are great. It is real easy to get wrapped up in this book! I look forward to reading more books from this author. I was given a copy of the book to read and to provide an honest review.
April 27, 2025
disappointing
I found this story when I was searching for free ebooks on Amazon. I have discovered some really amazing authors this way. Considering the description of this story, I had high hopes this would be another winner. I was disappointed.
First, the story is told from the point of view of the main character, Cole Taylor, as if he were sharing his testimony to someone. As such, I didn't get that attached to him or the other characters, because it didn't seem like we were "in the moment," as with other styles of storytelling. Even though the action involved in the life of this career fireman should've been more exciting, it wasn't, because of the sense of distance between what had happened and the present.
Secondly, I kept having a sense of deja vu. In many ways the plot line reminded me of the Christian film Fireproof--especially with the interactions between Cole and his mentor Micah Freeman. A lot of the dialogue between them was cliche, and felt conveniently contrived.
The way the female characters in the story were treated was not very kind. The men were stereotypically clueless. And the kids were out of control.
The worst part was how the story ended. Although Cole and his estranged wife got back together, the author really didn't give us a solid indication that they were going to follow through with their commitments to the Lord and each other. The narrative abruptly ended, with many pages of teasers from several stories I had already decided were likely to be equally unsatisfying.
Although technically, T. K. Chapin wrote correctly, and included some good scriptural applications, the story seemed neither genuine nor compelling. It lacks the "heart" that I expect in good contemporary Christian fiction.
I found this story when I was searching for free ebooks on Amazon. I have discovered some really amazing authors this way. Considering the description of this story, I had high hopes this would be another winner. I was disappointed.
First, the story is told from the point of view of the main character, Cole Taylor, as if he were sharing his testimony to someone. As such, I didn't get that attached to him or the other characters, because it didn't seem like we were "in the moment," as with other styles of storytelling. Even though the action involved in the life of this career fireman should've been more exciting, it wasn't, because of the sense of distance between what had happened and the present.
Secondly, I kept having a sense of deja vu. In many ways the plot line reminded me of the Christian film Fireproof--especially with the interactions between Cole and his mentor Micah Freeman. A lot of the dialogue between them was cliche, and felt conveniently contrived.
The way the female characters in the story were treated was not very kind. The men were stereotypically clueless. And the kids were out of control.
The worst part was how the story ended. Although Cole and his estranged wife got back together, the author really didn't give us a solid indication that they were going to follow through with their commitments to the Lord and each other. The narrative abruptly ended, with many pages of teasers from several stories I had already decided were likely to be equally unsatisfying.
Although technically, T. K. Chapin wrote correctly, and included some good scriptural applications, the story seemed neither genuine nor compelling. It lacks the "heart" that I expect in good contemporary Christian fiction.
January 4, 2018
A firefighter who is blindsided when he discovers his wife has left with his children. He didn't see it coming and to find out like he did causes bitterness. One of his fellow firefighters is a devote Christian and tries to council him. To make the marriage problems worse his Chief is also his father-in-law. The chief tells him that he is determined to fire him for hurting his daughter. Due to unforeseen circumstances our hero has to go see his wife.
There is a lot of soul-searching, learning how to not only forgive but to forget. Our hero has to take a good look at himself and accept blame for his own mistakes in the marriage instead of blaming everything on his wife.
No one asked me to read/review this book. I bought it based on other reviews. Its a good read. Its not your typical romance but it does touch on some hard subjects in a marriage. All opinions are my own. I enjoyed reading the book and the author dealt with the subject with a good perspective.
There is a lot of soul-searching, learning how to not only forgive but to forget. Our hero has to take a good look at himself and accept blame for his own mistakes in the marriage instead of blaming everything on his wife.
No one asked me to read/review this book. I bought it based on other reviews. Its a good read. Its not your typical romance but it does touch on some hard subjects in a marriage. All opinions are my own. I enjoyed reading the book and the author dealt with the subject with a good perspective.
October 1, 2020
This is one book to keep in your library. Doubt if you’ll forget it because it certainly is powerful. ‘Amongst the Flames’ may be a novel but the problems tackled here are far from fiction. Marriages simply don’t fail overnight. When trust is destroyed, a simple ‘I’m Sorry’ won’t bring it back.
From the outside looking in, it was easy to see problems with both Cole and Megan. But they weren’t outside looking in, they were in the midst of the fire. Communication issues, selfishness and life’s frustrations take a heavy toll. As said above, this may be fiction but it’s also a textbook for real life marriage problems.
I really liked ‘hearing’ the man’s POV here. I loved the healing process and how G_d’s role in a marriage is a must. Would love for more books to show the man’s thoughts, feelings and actions like this one.
From the outside looking in, it was easy to see problems with both Cole and Megan. But they weren’t outside looking in, they were in the midst of the fire. Communication issues, selfishness and life’s frustrations take a heavy toll. As said above, this may be fiction but it’s also a textbook for real life marriage problems.
I really liked ‘hearing’ the man’s POV here. I loved the healing process and how G_d’s role in a marriage is a must. Would love for more books to show the man’s thoughts, feelings and actions like this one.
December 31, 2020
Overall, I enjoyed this story of a marriage in trouble...but had some questions. Granted the H was very much in denial, took his wife and family for granted, was narcissistic, and lived for the Adrenalin rush from his job. He professed his faith but did not practice it until his wife left him. I could understand why this would be a wake up call (after the pity party) and served to strengthen his faith. What i questioned was his ability to forgive his wife so easily and to use his faith as a basis for this forgiveness and reconciliation of the marriage trust. It just seemed too easy for him, too fast without some serious counseling or introspection. He did have a mentor (I wish I had a friend like Micah).
It was interesting to watch the growth of the H and h in both their marriage and their faith.
It was interesting to watch the growth of the H and h in both their marriage and their faith.
May 29, 2017
A Case for Priorities
A good read. Love that it is a part of a larger series. Written from a man's perspective, Amongst the Flames deals with a marriage where the priorities have turned upside down. It's a theme that resonates with every relationship: the balance of family, work and fun. While a marriage takes two to work and desperation can make people make horrible decisions, I didn't like the main characters wife, and I wish there had been more development shown in her at the end of the novel. I left the novel wishing there was a more complete finish.
A good read. Love that it is a part of a larger series. Written from a man's perspective, Amongst the Flames deals with a marriage where the priorities have turned upside down. It's a theme that resonates with every relationship: the balance of family, work and fun. While a marriage takes two to work and desperation can make people make horrible decisions, I didn't like the main characters wife, and I wish there had been more development shown in her at the end of the novel. I left the novel wishing there was a more complete finish.
January 20, 2018
I really liked this book! It reminded me a lot of the movie Fireproof, with applying Christian values to face the hardships we encounter in life; & specifically in our marriages. I also liked how it was written from the man's point of view instead of the woman's. We need more books like this one where the man is seen doing his best to keep his marriage healthy & God close. This is the 1st book in a series of four, with all the books involving the same characters that work together as firemen at a firehouse in Seattle.
August 20, 2019
I enjoyed this book. A good clean Christian Fiction Romance book. The plot and characters are believable. This book deals with marital struggles and the need to have God first in the marriage. The writing flows easily with enough action to keep your attention. If you are looking for Christian Fiction Romance book then I would recommend this book and author. I have read several books by T.K. Chapin and they don't disappoint. These books are inspirational, have clean romance, and deal with real life issues and struggles.
September 11, 2019
this one didn't work for me, it actually made not like firemen!
I think the primary issue was that I didn't like the writers style. I really didn't care what happened to the characters. I would have left Cole too, and i don't think we saw a true change of heart. And the ending was about as abrupt as you can get without stopping mix sentence. Since I was interested enough to finish the book, I gave 3 stars, but the ending really deserved only 1. Don't foresee ready any more in this series.
I think the primary issue was that I didn't like the writers style. I really didn't care what happened to the characters. I would have left Cole too, and i don't think we saw a true change of heart. And the ending was about as abrupt as you can get without stopping mix sentence. Since I was interested enough to finish the book, I gave 3 stars, but the ending really deserved only 1. Don't foresee ready any more in this series.
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