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Kennedy Stern #2
Paralyzed
Kennedy Stern has returned to campus after surviving an abduction, but old scars cut deep. Vivid flashbacks and terrifying dreams paralyze her, threatening to ruin her academic career and any chance she has at peace or happiness. This mental anguish, however, constitutes only a small fraction of her post-traumatic nightmare.
A partner in Kennedy’s kidnapping remains at large and will not stop until he has silenced her witness permanently. His violent resolve risks not only her life, but the safety of anyone who tries to help.
Kennedy must engage in a deadly battle of the mind as she struggles to stay alive. While fighting on two fronts — one psychological and one physical — the question isn’t whether she’ll come out of the war stronger in the end.
The question is whether she’ll come out of it at all.
The newest release from inspirational suspense author, Alana Terry, who Christian Fiction has won awards from Women of Faith, Grace Awards, Readers' Favorite, and several others.
A partner in Kennedy’s kidnapping remains at large and will not stop until he has silenced her witness permanently. His violent resolve risks not only her life, but the safety of anyone who tries to help.
Kennedy must engage in a deadly battle of the mind as she struggles to stay alive. While fighting on two fronts — one psychological and one physical — the question isn’t whether she’ll come out of the war stronger in the end.
The question is whether she’ll come out of it at all.
The newest release from inspirational suspense author, Alana Terry, who Christian Fiction has won awards from Women of Faith, Grace Awards, Readers' Favorite, and several others.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2015
425 people are currently reading
555 people want to read
About the author
Alana Terry
95 books465 followersWhen Alana isn't writing, it's likely that she's on the floor wrestling with her kids. Or playing outside with her kids. Or chauffeuring her kids. Or trying some random science experiment with her kids. But she's probably not cooking or cleaning.
Alana is a homeschooling mother of three who loves to write, hates to cook, and enjoys reading a good book almost as much as she enjoys writing one.
Alana won the Women of Faith writing contest for "The Beloved Daughter," her debut inspirational novel. "What, No Sushi?" is Alana's first book in a chapter-book series for kids published by Do Life Right, Inc.
Alana is a homeschooling mother of three who loves to write, hates to cook, and enjoys reading a good book almost as much as she enjoys writing one.
Alana won the Women of Faith writing contest for "The Beloved Daughter," her debut inspirational novel. "What, No Sushi?" is Alana's first book in a chapter-book series for kids published by Do Life Right, Inc.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
September 13, 2024
Note to self: quit reading this before bed. I stayed up way too late finishing this book, and for good reason. If you want a heart-pounding suspense with solid characters and a biblical vibe, this is the book for you.
April 28, 2017
I'm always amazed when a writer is able to pull of the "totally confused" feeling that a character is going through, and Miss Alana did a great job of it.
Kennedy was suffering PTSD from the happenings in the last book, and it made this book feel really disjointed and confusing, but in the best way possible. It was hard at times to know what was real and what was going on inside of Kennedy's head, and that takes some expert writing to pull off correctly.
I will say: Kennedy had a habit of going off on a long internal monolog during critical moments, and even though I'm sure that information was pretty important, I generally just skimmed and skipped it because it was more important for me to figure out what was going on with the action-y part of the book. :)
Once again, I was pulled into this book and kept wanting to read and find out what happened next. I look forward to diving into the third book before long.
(And, just a note, once again there are enough things that were handled well, but still weren't child-friendly.)
Kennedy was suffering PTSD from the happenings in the last book, and it made this book feel really disjointed and confusing, but in the best way possible. It was hard at times to know what was real and what was going on inside of Kennedy's head, and that takes some expert writing to pull off correctly.
I will say: Kennedy had a habit of going off on a long internal monolog during critical moments, and even though I'm sure that information was pretty important, I generally just skimmed and skipped it because it was more important for me to figure out what was going on with the action-y part of the book. :)
Once again, I was pulled into this book and kept wanting to read and find out what happened next. I look forward to diving into the third book before long.
(And, just a note, once again there are enough things that were handled well, but still weren't child-friendly.)
September 22, 2020
Kennedy safe but not entirely. Although her captors from previous novel were captured themselves and placed in jail she still not safe because they are Rich goes far beyond the prison walls. As Vinny waits for trial his men are out prowling the streets after Kennedy trying to kill her so she cannot testify against them.
Kennedy’s faith is really tested as she grows closer to God and tries to find peace in guidance amongst her PTSD.
Again I really like this and can’t wait to pick up the next book her character is very likable and very realistic. I also like how the author did a lot of research and asked policeman paramedics anyone she could to help better her book and make it more realistic.
Kennedy’s faith is really tested as she grows closer to God and tries to find peace in guidance amongst her PTSD.
Again I really like this and can’t wait to pick up the next book her character is very likable and very realistic. I also like how the author did a lot of research and asked policeman paramedics anyone she could to help better her book and make it more realistic.
March 2, 2025
Book #2 for me in the Kennedy Stern series and this one was just action action action. I am not even sure I totally remember the plot. It was just Kennedy dealing with PTSD from the previous book and then being chased by her attacker from book #1. There was some progress in her personal life hbetween her and Rueban and some revelations about Pastor Carl and his wife, however nothing that was incredibly interesting. I will finish the series, but hope the next book has more plot and less action.
February 5, 2017
This is the second book in a series. The first one had plenty of action and movement. This one concentrates on the character's struggles with memories and a post traumatic stress disorder.
In the previous novel, Kennedy had been kidnapped and held hostage. In this novel, she faces an uncertain future. The kidnapper was in custody but an accomplice is still at large. Kennedy struggles with fear, endangering her success at her college studies. Then she finds herself in physical danger too.
I found parts of this book a little disconcerting. In the midst of a suspenseful situation, Terry would give readers a lengthy section of Kennedy's thoughts. I really felt the flow of the action bogged down at these points. I would have preferred a mere paragraph of thoughts during suspenseful situations with more thinking at other times.
I would suggest that the first in the series be read before this one. Much of Kennedy's thinking dwells on what happened in the first novel. Without that background, this novel will not be as meaningful. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a novel concentrating on the psychological struggles of the main character.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through The Book Club Network. My comments are an independent and honest review.
In the previous novel, Kennedy had been kidnapped and held hostage. In this novel, she faces an uncertain future. The kidnapper was in custody but an accomplice is still at large. Kennedy struggles with fear, endangering her success at her college studies. Then she finds herself in physical danger too.
I found parts of this book a little disconcerting. In the midst of a suspenseful situation, Terry would give readers a lengthy section of Kennedy's thoughts. I really felt the flow of the action bogged down at these points. I would have preferred a mere paragraph of thoughts during suspenseful situations with more thinking at other times.
I would suggest that the first in the series be read before this one. Much of Kennedy's thinking dwells on what happened in the first novel. Without that background, this novel will not be as meaningful. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a novel concentrating on the psychological struggles of the main character.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through The Book Club Network. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 27, 2024
Kennedy is struggling with PTSD from her recent kidnapping, although she doesn't want to admit it. She figures that as a Christian, prayer should be sufficient in fighting the demons in her mind and thinks that she doesn't need therapy.
Her physiological battle only becomes worse when she learns that her kidnapper had an accomplice and he is out to get her. Will Kennedy survive this time?
Her physiological battle only becomes worse when she learns that her kidnapper had an accomplice and he is out to get her. Will Kennedy survive this time?
November 14, 2015
Originally posted http://readaholiczone.blogspot.com
I give it 3 1/2 stars.
This is not the first Alana Terry novel that I have read also including the first Kennedy Stern novel and have high regards for her writing. Paralyzed is a book you will pick up and keep saying just one more chapter until you have no more pages left to turn. Whereas, in some series you do not need to start with the first novel to gather the scheme of everything this is not one of them. Indeed, you need to read Unplanned before reading this book or a great deal of the plot will be hard to understand. Regarding the prose, it flowed effortlessly, allowing the reader a smooth reading experience contrary to the story jumping around losing the reader in pandemonium. The reader additionally gets to establish a deeper understanding of the major characters that have been a part of both books.
What I enjoyed tremendously about the book is the use of PTSD in the storyline. Is Kennedy being over distraught or is someone actually after her? What was real and when is her mind just playing tricks on her? is it both? A few parts confused me. One, when Kennedy and Reuben were on the stopped subway why run away from Reuben, who could protect her instead she ran into the unknown darkness. Two, It was obvious she was having a panic attack when her chemistry final was beginning when she went to get water and thought she saw a man who might be after her, why not go back into the classroom full of other people instead of running aimlessly around campus? What also brought down the book for me the suspense lacked the intensity as the first book which, happens in a lot of series. I perceive the next Kennedy Stern Suspense Christian Suspense Novel will be exultant! Finally, If you are a Christian or not you will like this book.
Thank you, Alana Terry, for letting me give an honest review
I give it 3 1/2 stars.
This is not the first Alana Terry novel that I have read also including the first Kennedy Stern novel and have high regards for her writing. Paralyzed is a book you will pick up and keep saying just one more chapter until you have no more pages left to turn. Whereas, in some series you do not need to start with the first novel to gather the scheme of everything this is not one of them. Indeed, you need to read Unplanned before reading this book or a great deal of the plot will be hard to understand. Regarding the prose, it flowed effortlessly, allowing the reader a smooth reading experience contrary to the story jumping around losing the reader in pandemonium. The reader additionally gets to establish a deeper understanding of the major characters that have been a part of both books.
What I enjoyed tremendously about the book is the use of PTSD in the storyline. Is Kennedy being over distraught or is someone actually after her? What was real and when is her mind just playing tricks on her? is it both? A few parts confused me. One, when Kennedy and Reuben were on the stopped subway why run away from Reuben, who could protect her instead she ran into the unknown darkness. Two, It was obvious she was having a panic attack when her chemistry final was beginning when she went to get water and thought she saw a man who might be after her, why not go back into the classroom full of other people instead of running aimlessly around campus? What also brought down the book for me the suspense lacked the intensity as the first book which, happens in a lot of series. I perceive the next Kennedy Stern Suspense Christian Suspense Novel will be exultant! Finally, If you are a Christian or not you will like this book.
Thank you, Alana Terry, for letting me give an honest review
December 3, 2016
I had heard about the Kennedy Stern Christian Suspense Series by Alana Terry and had wanted to read them for quite a while now. During the Thanksgiving holiday, I was able to read four of the five books, only because the 5th wasn’t available yet. That one is on my Christmas list.
There really are two sides to every story. There are a few characters in this series that I think make the entire series: First of all, Kennedy, the main character, who is a young adult (college age) and she struggles in her faith. She has questions. She questions whether she needs more “works” and what exactly grace means in her life when relating to her Heavenly Father. She questions how “deep” of a relationship with God she has… all questions that each of us need to answer in our own lives, in our own time, in our own way with God Himself in order to grow the strong roots needed to withstand life’s challenges. As I was reading this book, I could already envision my children who are fast approaching this age and thinking… they will soon be having these types of internal dialogue (if not already) and that’s a good thing.
My other favorite characters were the couple Carl and Sandy. Oh my - at first I thought they were so pushy and “in your face” with Kennedy but then I realized, they just love to love people and do so well at showing God’s love. They truly became my favorites, even more than Kennedy herself. Part of that could be my age and I can relate to them even more. I wondered if Sandy was “too perfect” but nope, in the fourth book in the series, I was relieved to see that she was human also and stress and exhaustion got to her at times too and she wasn’t as put together as she appeared in the first three books.
However, I think also that spoke directly to me because it was during the Thanksgiving holiday when I was purposefully working on recharging my over-exhausted batteries that God used this fiction story to remind me of a few things. First of all, He only wants me to say “yes” to His agenda and when I say “yes” to more than what He wants (which is ultimately disobedience), then I won’t have the same spirit of generosity, kindness, patience etc. that I admired in Sandy because there will be no reserve left to allow that overflow in my life. When I am living with only the “yes’s” on my plate that God gives, I am more able to live the characteristics I admired in a fictional character. Second, sometimes God allows hard seasons in our lives. They are temporary and if we allow Him to work through us during the hard, sometimes we can be a good witness of how we handle hard. Not perfectly, but still with His spirit shining through our lives.
Carl - I loved Carl. I loved the way he presented the example of Christ in his imperfect but wonderful ways. Sometimes pushy, sometimes more outspoken than I’m comfortable with, but always with love. Love was evident in every interaction Carl had, no matter who it was with. Yup, I think Carl was my favorite character in the entire book.
I can’t forget Willow, Reuben and Nick. I wasn’t sure what to think about Reuben at first. Was he hiding something… would he hurt Kennedy? Was he really the friend he claimed to be? What were his feelings? And Willow… wow. God used this book to show how we can be salt and light to everyone in this world and also how we can peacefully coexist with others who don’t share our beliefs without compromising our own or judging theirs.
Love. The central theme of the books and I believe what is going to help our country unite during this season that we find ourselves in. And Nick… I’m still not sure how I feel about Nick. I enjoyed getting to know a little more about his background in book #4 and hope there is more involvement with Nick in the 5th book. His character intrigues me enough to want to continue to get to know him.
Unplanned was the first book. This book dealt with the topic of abortion and I have to say, I went into the book a little skeptical, wondering how the author was going to take the topic and try to sway my beliefs. If anything, the author presented both sides of the debate in such a way that it reinforced what I already believe, yet helped me see the “other side” with more compassion.
Paralyzed dealt with posttraumatic stress disorder and was a great suspenseful book. The author did a great job keeping me engrossed in the book, wanting to see what happened next.
Policed dealt with a few surprise twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting. I won’t name them because I don’t want to ruin the suspense of the novel, but just know you won’t want to put the book down until the last page. This book however left me sad… grieving. Sometimes life is like that, isn’t it? Sometimes books with sad endings mirror life that has sad endings, because the war really isn’t won until we reach Heaven. Therefore, intermixed with all the “happy” and blessings God gives us, there are still elements of sad.
Straightened. Given the book cover, I wasn’t sure where the author was going to take this book but I loved it. I couldn’t stop reading this one either.
The best part of the books, in my opinion, is that it is evident that God is using the author’s use of fiction and adventure and writing of suspense to open dialogue about topics that people are afraid to talk to others about. Afraid to talk to people with similar points of view but especially afraid to talk to people with opposing points of view. She shows how dialogue can be had in very nonthreatening ways with people who don’t share our opinions. Jesus Himself went and walked among the sick, because the healthy don’t need a doctor. Whatever side of the fence you stand on the topics discussed in these books, I believe you will walk away with a broader understanding. Not necessarily where your mind has been changed… maybe they will further cement your beliefs that you already have, but with a better sense of understanding if not of the topics themselves, then ways to relate to others about these sensitive topics, ways that God Himself would approve of.
There really are two sides to every story. There are a few characters in this series that I think make the entire series: First of all, Kennedy, the main character, who is a young adult (college age) and she struggles in her faith. She has questions. She questions whether she needs more “works” and what exactly grace means in her life when relating to her Heavenly Father. She questions how “deep” of a relationship with God she has… all questions that each of us need to answer in our own lives, in our own time, in our own way with God Himself in order to grow the strong roots needed to withstand life’s challenges. As I was reading this book, I could already envision my children who are fast approaching this age and thinking… they will soon be having these types of internal dialogue (if not already) and that’s a good thing.
My other favorite characters were the couple Carl and Sandy. Oh my - at first I thought they were so pushy and “in your face” with Kennedy but then I realized, they just love to love people and do so well at showing God’s love. They truly became my favorites, even more than Kennedy herself. Part of that could be my age and I can relate to them even more. I wondered if Sandy was “too perfect” but nope, in the fourth book in the series, I was relieved to see that she was human also and stress and exhaustion got to her at times too and she wasn’t as put together as she appeared in the first three books.
However, I think also that spoke directly to me because it was during the Thanksgiving holiday when I was purposefully working on recharging my over-exhausted batteries that God used this fiction story to remind me of a few things. First of all, He only wants me to say “yes” to His agenda and when I say “yes” to more than what He wants (which is ultimately disobedience), then I won’t have the same spirit of generosity, kindness, patience etc. that I admired in Sandy because there will be no reserve left to allow that overflow in my life. When I am living with only the “yes’s” on my plate that God gives, I am more able to live the characteristics I admired in a fictional character. Second, sometimes God allows hard seasons in our lives. They are temporary and if we allow Him to work through us during the hard, sometimes we can be a good witness of how we handle hard. Not perfectly, but still with His spirit shining through our lives.
Carl - I loved Carl. I loved the way he presented the example of Christ in his imperfect but wonderful ways. Sometimes pushy, sometimes more outspoken than I’m comfortable with, but always with love. Love was evident in every interaction Carl had, no matter who it was with. Yup, I think Carl was my favorite character in the entire book.
I can’t forget Willow, Reuben and Nick. I wasn’t sure what to think about Reuben at first. Was he hiding something… would he hurt Kennedy? Was he really the friend he claimed to be? What were his feelings? And Willow… wow. God used this book to show how we can be salt and light to everyone in this world and also how we can peacefully coexist with others who don’t share our beliefs without compromising our own or judging theirs.
Love. The central theme of the books and I believe what is going to help our country unite during this season that we find ourselves in. And Nick… I’m still not sure how I feel about Nick. I enjoyed getting to know a little more about his background in book #4 and hope there is more involvement with Nick in the 5th book. His character intrigues me enough to want to continue to get to know him.
Unplanned was the first book. This book dealt with the topic of abortion and I have to say, I went into the book a little skeptical, wondering how the author was going to take the topic and try to sway my beliefs. If anything, the author presented both sides of the debate in such a way that it reinforced what I already believe, yet helped me see the “other side” with more compassion.
Paralyzed dealt with posttraumatic stress disorder and was a great suspenseful book. The author did a great job keeping me engrossed in the book, wanting to see what happened next.
Policed dealt with a few surprise twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting. I won’t name them because I don’t want to ruin the suspense of the novel, but just know you won’t want to put the book down until the last page. This book however left me sad… grieving. Sometimes life is like that, isn’t it? Sometimes books with sad endings mirror life that has sad endings, because the war really isn’t won until we reach Heaven. Therefore, intermixed with all the “happy” and blessings God gives us, there are still elements of sad.
Straightened. Given the book cover, I wasn’t sure where the author was going to take this book but I loved it. I couldn’t stop reading this one either.
The best part of the books, in my opinion, is that it is evident that God is using the author’s use of fiction and adventure and writing of suspense to open dialogue about topics that people are afraid to talk to others about. Afraid to talk to people with similar points of view but especially afraid to talk to people with opposing points of view. She shows how dialogue can be had in very nonthreatening ways with people who don’t share our opinions. Jesus Himself went and walked among the sick, because the healthy don’t need a doctor. Whatever side of the fence you stand on the topics discussed in these books, I believe you will walk away with a broader understanding. Not necessarily where your mind has been changed… maybe they will further cement your beliefs that you already have, but with a better sense of understanding if not of the topics themselves, then ways to relate to others about these sensitive topics, ways that God Himself would approve of.
August 24, 2017
Triggers from past experiences can cause problems at any time. PTSD(Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can happen to anyone at anytime. In this story of danger, mystery and finding justice, the author takes the reader on a fast paced journey filled with action and suspense. Learning to rely on God at all times and trusting His promises is key to any situation. I enjoyed this story. I received a copy of this story from the author and this is my personal honest opinion.
September 20, 2020
Veru suspenseful and realistic
Lile anyone wpuld after.am prdeal such as Kennedy jas g0me.through, with the kidnapping and tryimg to help a little girl who got pregnant at 13 and whose uncle troed to gove her the abortion pill - which is only useful in the forst few weeks after a pregnancy and otherwise n unsafe, but the girl lied to jim - she was ⁵n m9nths along...with the hemorrhaging...and the 13 year old'sb uncle's desire to kill her and a boy who was a friend but not a boyfriend...and the relief when cops found them and got the girl help for the critical blood loss...the girls were kept cold and hungry and were threatened...of course she has PTSD. It would be odd if she didn't. Worse, one of the kidnappers was still at large last Kennedy knew. So when she is studying, taking her finals, rushing from one class to another before that, it is still a constant shadow that breaks up her sleep with nightmares. Her last f8nal, she freaks.out because so many people are there to take the final, she knows no one would pick up on a stranger being there. She starts to feel as if she's being watched. Then she starts to cough n Reuben gives her a stick of gum, but it doesn't help. The cough gets worse, so she signals the prof to ask permission to get a drink. The cough getsnworse in spite of everything...then she sees Vinnie, the kidnapper who got away. She gets out of the building as fast asnpossible. Her roommate tellsbher, once she can get the info as to wjat has freaked her so badly, out of her, that Vinnie was captured the night before.
Later, her dad sends her an email, then calls her to ask if she has looked at it. It turns out there was another person involved. Some9ne still at large, wjo wouldn't want her testifying. She also jas to see about retakomgnthe c hemnexam...she emails her prof who says she needs an excuse from the doctor. Hee tells her she has PTSD. Like way too many Christians, she feels she has failed God by not being able to shake this via prayer and devotions and church attendance.
Everything starts to happen at once, it seems. Pastor Carl takes her to his place, and her roommate, though invited, opts to stay with a friend. More adventures follow. With Christmas coming, the cops not wanting Kennedy to travel for fear the an at large or possibly another unknown confederate and her having to cancal the flight to Baltimore to visit her aunt, things seem to spiral out of control as the Holiday approaches.
Will Kennedy acceot that having PTSD doesn't make her a bad Christian? Will she ever feel - or be - safe? And will she ever get a backup battery n for her mobile phone so she will have a spare for emergencies? Some of those questions will be abswered in this book, while the others will wait for the bext book in the series.
Despite the pace of events, I thinknit should have moved faster in some spots, but then I argue with myself about whether or not I'm being impatient.
Lile anyone wpuld after.am prdeal such as Kennedy jas g0me.through, with the kidnapping and tryimg to help a little girl who got pregnant at 13 and whose uncle troed to gove her the abortion pill - which is only useful in the forst few weeks after a pregnancy and otherwise n unsafe, but the girl lied to jim - she was ⁵n m9nths along...with the hemorrhaging...and the 13 year old'sb uncle's desire to kill her and a boy who was a friend but not a boyfriend...and the relief when cops found them and got the girl help for the critical blood loss...the girls were kept cold and hungry and were threatened...of course she has PTSD. It would be odd if she didn't. Worse, one of the kidnappers was still at large last Kennedy knew. So when she is studying, taking her finals, rushing from one class to another before that, it is still a constant shadow that breaks up her sleep with nightmares. Her last f8nal, she freaks.out because so many people are there to take the final, she knows no one would pick up on a stranger being there. She starts to feel as if she's being watched. Then she starts to cough n Reuben gives her a stick of gum, but it doesn't help. The cough gets worse, so she signals the prof to ask permission to get a drink. The cough getsnworse in spite of everything...then she sees Vinnie, the kidnapper who got away. She gets out of the building as fast asnpossible. Her roommate tellsbher, once she can get the info as to wjat has freaked her so badly, out of her, that Vinnie was captured the night before.
Later, her dad sends her an email, then calls her to ask if she has looked at it. It turns out there was another person involved. Some9ne still at large, wjo wouldn't want her testifying. She also jas to see about retakomgnthe c hemnexam...she emails her prof who says she needs an excuse from the doctor. Hee tells her she has PTSD. Like way too many Christians, she feels she has failed God by not being able to shake this via prayer and devotions and church attendance.
Everything starts to happen at once, it seems. Pastor Carl takes her to his place, and her roommate, though invited, opts to stay with a friend. More adventures follow. With Christmas coming, the cops not wanting Kennedy to travel for fear the an at large or possibly another unknown confederate and her having to cancal the flight to Baltimore to visit her aunt, things seem to spiral out of control as the Holiday approaches.
Will Kennedy acceot that having PTSD doesn't make her a bad Christian? Will she ever feel - or be - safe? And will she ever get a backup battery n for her mobile phone so she will have a spare for emergencies? Some of those questions will be abswered in this book, while the others will wait for the bext book in the series.
Despite the pace of events, I thinknit should have moved faster in some spots, but then I argue with myself about whether or not I'm being impatient.
May 6, 2017
Paralyzed by Alana Terry is a contemporary Christian suspense that I got so enthralled with that I could not put it down! It continues where Unplanned left off.
Alana Terry explores what it means to be a Christian. Being a Christian does not guarantee a trouble free life but God does promise to never leave us. "She had gotten really consistent with her prayer and Bible study, which made her wonder why God hadn't taken her problems away." It is in the difficult times that we grow.
There are times when we feel isolated. "God why have you left me here to deal with this myself?" Just because we cannot see or feel God, does not mean He is not there, working on our behalf.
There is a lot of fear in the novel. We all fear something. We need to give our fears to God and trust Him to help us through. "She didn't have to live her life in fear. She was a Christian." If we have faith, we do not need to fear.
The gift of grace is another theme. Too often people think they need to work their way to salvation. No salvation is a free gift to us, but it cost Jesus everything.
Life is not necessarily going to be rosy if we pray more or read our Bible more. These are good habits but we do not need to bargain our way with God. We live in a fallen world and none of us is immune to trouble and hardship. We can lean on God in the tough times though.
There is the topic of PTSD. Some people think that we can pray ourselves better and do not need health professionals. Praying is good but sometimes God heals through doctors and other people.
Paralyzed was one huge adrenalin rush! I read it with my heart racing. It was impossible to put down. I loved it. This is a fabulous series.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Alana Terry explores what it means to be a Christian. Being a Christian does not guarantee a trouble free life but God does promise to never leave us. "She had gotten really consistent with her prayer and Bible study, which made her wonder why God hadn't taken her problems away." It is in the difficult times that we grow.
There are times when we feel isolated. "God why have you left me here to deal with this myself?" Just because we cannot see or feel God, does not mean He is not there, working on our behalf.
There is a lot of fear in the novel. We all fear something. We need to give our fears to God and trust Him to help us through. "She didn't have to live her life in fear. She was a Christian." If we have faith, we do not need to fear.
The gift of grace is another theme. Too often people think they need to work their way to salvation. No salvation is a free gift to us, but it cost Jesus everything.
Life is not necessarily going to be rosy if we pray more or read our Bible more. These are good habits but we do not need to bargain our way with God. We live in a fallen world and none of us is immune to trouble and hardship. We can lean on God in the tough times though.
There is the topic of PTSD. Some people think that we can pray ourselves better and do not need health professionals. Praying is good but sometimes God heals through doctors and other people.
Paralyzed was one huge adrenalin rush! I read it with my heart racing. It was impossible to put down. I loved it. This is a fabulous series.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 21, 2021
You definitely need to read this series together and in order. Each book picks up where the last left off. Also this series must be geared to youth/young adults.
This book picks up at the end of the first one with Kennedy returning to her studies. But she keeps seeing Vinny everywhere and having panic attacks? What is up with that? What is going on? Then she finds out he is still loose. Then things start happening to Kennedy. The T car she is on breaks down in the subway and more. Will Vinny catch up with Kennedy? Why is he hunting her down?
On a personal note I found Kennedy to be a whiner in this book. Also she needs counselling but denies that and is ashamed of it. Why? I found some of it to be annoying and unbelievable. What young person doesn't carry their phone with them all the time and keep it charged? Hers is always dead. Also they know the bad guys copied her phone but she is still using it? What? Why would you not replace it or have it cleaned or their stuff? Also the same with her computer? She's become scared of everything but never locks her dorm door? Sorry not believable on that score. I ended up skipping over some of the whining to find out how it turned out.
This book picks up at the end of the first one with Kennedy returning to her studies. But she keeps seeing Vinny everywhere and having panic attacks? What is up with that? What is going on? Then she finds out he is still loose. Then things start happening to Kennedy. The T car she is on breaks down in the subway and more. Will Vinny catch up with Kennedy? Why is he hunting her down?
On a personal note I found Kennedy to be a whiner in this book. Also she needs counselling but denies that and is ashamed of it. Why? I found some of it to be annoying and unbelievable. What young person doesn't carry their phone with them all the time and keep it charged? Hers is always dead. Also they know the bad guys copied her phone but she is still using it? What? Why would you not replace it or have it cleaned or their stuff? Also the same with her computer? She's become scared of everything but never locks her dorm door? Sorry not believable on that score. I ended up skipping over some of the whining to find out how it turned out.
January 16, 2017
Paralyzed by alana Terry
This is the second book in the series about Kennedy who's returned from China and is attending Harvard in Boston. She has gone through a terrible kidnapping and is back at college now.
They have captured the last of the kidnappers but she has a panic attack when she sees him. She tries to forget about all of it as her friend takes her to see a ballet and on the way back on the T, it catches on fire. she panics and runs off by herself knowing someone is following her, ready to kill her or kidnap her again. A lot of backstory.
She prays a lot as that's all that soothes and calms her...as others are trying to silence her...
Lot of old events are revisited. Just when she thinks she is safe, is she really? Other works are highlighted at the end. Discussion questions at the end.
Was given this book by the author for attending a Facebook party about her first book, unplanned.
This is the second book in the series about Kennedy who's returned from China and is attending Harvard in Boston. She has gone through a terrible kidnapping and is back at college now.
They have captured the last of the kidnappers but she has a panic attack when she sees him. She tries to forget about all of it as her friend takes her to see a ballet and on the way back on the T, it catches on fire. she panics and runs off by herself knowing someone is following her, ready to kill her or kidnap her again. A lot of backstory.
She prays a lot as that's all that soothes and calms her...as others are trying to silence her...
Lot of old events are revisited. Just when she thinks she is safe, is she really? Other works are highlighted at the end. Discussion questions at the end.
Was given this book by the author for attending a Facebook party about her first book, unplanned.
March 21, 2017
Paralyzed (Kennedy Stern #2) by Alana Terry is a fast-paced book that deals with the topic of post-traumatic stress disorder. It picks right up where Unplanned, Book 1 in the series, left off. Kennedy has returned to her college campus and is making a valiant attempt to put her recent ordeal behind her. But that is not as easy as it seems. I don't want to give the story away so you'll have to read the book to find out more.
Each book in Alana Terry's Kennedy Stern series deals with a hot-button issue that's relevant in our world today. She writes like no other author I know, presenting both sides of the debate/issue in each book. She definitely gives the reader food for thought and might even cause you to reconsider your opinion on sensitive subject matters. I give this book a 5 star rating and can't wait to read book 3. I highly recommend reading these books in order so as not to miss any important details.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but was not required to leave a review. All opinions are my own.
Each book in Alana Terry's Kennedy Stern series deals with a hot-button issue that's relevant in our world today. She writes like no other author I know, presenting both sides of the debate/issue in each book. She definitely gives the reader food for thought and might even cause you to reconsider your opinion on sensitive subject matters. I give this book a 5 star rating and can't wait to read book 3. I highly recommend reading these books in order so as not to miss any important details.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but was not required to leave a review. All opinions are my own.
December 31, 2023
First of all this is a series that definitely needs to be read in order. Kennedy is back at college after surviving being kidnapped. She went through quite the traumatic event in book 1 and she now has PTSD. I love how the author is not afraid to use real life situations in her books. Kennedy is on pins and needles and her imagination goes crazy. She thinks what she sees is real and the poor thing. I really felt for her in this book. The book was very suspenseful and had me on my toes throughout the whole thing. I love the faith aspect so much in this story. I highly recommend this series. I'm loving the suspense so far.
I listened to this on audio and the narration was great! Great emotion in the narrators voice and I was able to differentiate between the characters with no problem.
I listened to this on audio and the narration was great! Great emotion in the narrators voice and I was able to differentiate between the characters with no problem.
July 8, 2017
I love Kennedy. She is a true heroine. She is a woman we can all relate to and empathize with. Her struggles are our struggles. Her relationship with God is being perfected and he assumptions about who He is is being challenged. How many of us question the life we should have as a Christian.
I love this book and would recommend to everyone. There are some tough issues being discussed but it is what we need to hear. I cannot wait to see how her story along with Rueben's progresses.
I received this book from Bookfun.org and the received expressed are entirely my own. Reviews will be posted on Barnes and Nobles, Amazon, Deepshopping and etc.
I love this book and would recommend to everyone. There are some tough issues being discussed but it is what we need to hear. I cannot wait to see how her story along with Rueben's progresses.
I received this book from Bookfun.org and the received expressed are entirely my own. Reviews will be posted on Barnes and Nobles, Amazon, Deepshopping and etc.
June 21, 2024
Once again Alana Terry brought a wonderful book about Kennedy Stern! I loved it as much as the first one in the series.
There is a lot of action, suspense and romance throughout, along with God and Jesus! You can’t have a wonderful book without them, in my opinion anyway!
Kennedy is still having trouble with the men who are after her from the first book, adding another man in. With studying for finals at Harvard, and dealing with the men who want to kill her, life is really difficult, just make room for God, and life will become a little easier!
I really recommend this series, it’s one that I will end up reading more than once!
There is a lot of action, suspense and romance throughout, along with God and Jesus! You can’t have a wonderful book without them, in my opinion anyway!
Kennedy is still having trouble with the men who are after her from the first book, adding another man in. With studying for finals at Harvard, and dealing with the men who want to kill her, life is really difficult, just make room for God, and life will become a little easier!
I really recommend this series, it’s one that I will end up reading more than once!
July 23, 2018
Got the boxed set on Kindle. Read Unplanned a year ago, so it took me a few chapters to remember past characters. The whole thing fell flat to me. I never fully understood the main theme that she was tackling.. I guessed mental illness. I got frustrated with many of the episodes where I couldn't tell if Kennedy was hallucinating or it was happening in real life. I couldn't get a feel for any of the characters. All of that being said, I appreciate Christian Suspense, and I feel that this author has a lot in her. I will continue to chug along the Kennedy Sterns series 'til its end.
December 10, 2020
Unique mix in that much of the story reflects how the main character processes trauma while seeking to live a normal life. The action bursts out in a manner that feels authentic while much of the everyday is impacted by the fear the main character experiences in not knowing what might come next. Whenever safety is promised it is just as quickly taken away. This story does a good job of exposing the reality of trauma, its aftereffects, and how people try to come to grips with it. It also shows that fear can sometimes be a useful tool to keep you safe.
October 17, 2017
Not as good as the first one in this series. It was okay. I leafed through this entirely too fast. I admittedly skipped several pages now and then, mainly parts with the main character's soliloquy because they were just too long, and there were plenty. Every other chapter was her internal turmoil of what happened in book 1 and what could've been and the what ifs. Still a light easy read. I just hope book 3 is packed with more suspense and action.
July 20, 2018
Such a wonderful story of walking through one's faith. The main character struggles with the same issues that I believe most Christians struggle with. She chides herself for not being the proper Christian and tries to "fix" things by "doing" all of the right Christian things in the hopes that by some magic, she'll not experience what life throws at her. We see unconditional love from unexpected places. A taught and thrilling read.
June 30, 2020
I've been waiting to read this book for a while and I'm SO glad I got the chance to! Reading this story, I was able to sympathize with Kennedy's inner struggles and it only made me care for her even more. This book truly kept me on the edge of my seat and I actually felt the same fear Kennedy felt throughout this story. Reading this book, I was reminded of how we can't handle our fears alone, but we must express our concerns to God. Can't wait to read the next book in this series!
August 1, 2024
This is the second book in the series. The main character, Kennedy Stern, is already traumatized by what happened in the first novel where she was kidnapped and almost murdered. This book is just as exciting as the first, as there are more bad guys trying to murder her so she can't testify against the criminals who have been arrested and are awaiting court appearances. I will definitely read the next book in the series.
April 23, 2018
Alana Terry, did it again. Paralyzed was a book that was hard to put down. It is hard to say a lot about this book without giving away any of the details in the book. This is just another book that you just need to buy, download or borrow, and read for yourself. Alana, is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
December 16, 2019
This book was the continuation of "Unplanned". Tells us how Kennedy is dealing with everything that happened in the first book. She is diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It's also about her internal battles and struggles with her faith. It touches a sensitive subject but I'm glad she presented two sides of the debate... It wasn't as good as the first one but it was alright.
March 21, 2017
This is the second book in the Kennedy Stern series and this one is just as intense as the first.
Kennedy is dealing with the after effect of her abduction. She is kind of in denial about what is going on and what she is struggling with. She has this idea (as many Christians do) that if she prayed more or prayed better, or was a better Christian she wouldn’t have these issues. Her feelings mirror what I think a lot of Christians feel. They are under this illusion that they must not be a “good” Christians if they are struggling with anxiety. Which is a lie.
I was totally engaged in this book and what Kennedy was going through and how she might overcome her obstacles. I also enjoyed the other characters in the book, Kennedy’s friends. Her roommate is an interesting person and I feel like I might have roomed with her in college myself
Kennedy is dealing with the after effect of her abduction. She is kind of in denial about what is going on and what she is struggling with. She has this idea (as many Christians do) that if she prayed more or prayed better, or was a better Christian she wouldn’t have these issues. Her feelings mirror what I think a lot of Christians feel. They are under this illusion that they must not be a “good” Christians if they are struggling with anxiety. Which is a lie.
I was totally engaged in this book and what Kennedy was going through and how she might overcome her obstacles. I also enjoyed the other characters in the book, Kennedy’s friends. Her roommate is an interesting person and I feel like I might have roomed with her in college myself
July 28, 2017
I enjoyed the spiritual content of this book. However it was hard for me to focus. ocus
Kennedy was kidnapped and in the aftermath was struggling to get past it when she realized it was not over.
Kennedy was kidnapped and in the aftermath was struggling to get past it when she realized it was not over.
September 15, 2017
After the crises of the months before, who could blame Kennedy for having panic attacks? Especially when one of the perpetrators is still on the loose. Join Kennedy as she faces her fears and trusts God to get her through the next set of crises.
November 28, 2018
Amazing!!
I loved every second of these last two books! I read them both in a week because I could not put them down! I love the Christian side of it and the story line. I can't say more then I love these books and now have a new favorite author!
I loved every second of these last two books! I read them both in a week because I could not put them down! I love the Christian side of it and the story line. I can't say more then I love these books and now have a new favorite author!
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October 8, 2019Danger is all around
Through no fault is her own, Kennedy is caught up in a dangerous situation. Her pastor befriends her and they barely escape with their lives. An exciting story that will keep you reading. Very good.
Through no fault is her own, Kennedy is caught up in a dangerous situation. Her pastor befriends her and they barely escape with their lives. An exciting story that will keep you reading. Very good.
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