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Grant Us Grace #2
Courage to Change
He’s a lawyer who’s determined never to love again. But his coworker refuses to get the memo.
When Phil Reid became a Christian and stopped drinking, his hard-partying wife Brandi divorced him. Reeling and betrayed, he becomes convinced Christians should never remarry, and resolves to guard his heart.
Allison Vasak has everything in her life under control, except for one thing. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to fellow attorney and coworker, Phil. Though she knows his history and believes that women should not initiate relationships, she longs to make her feelings known.
As Phil and Allison work closely together to help a pregnant teen, both must reevaluate their convictions. But when Brandi discovers Phil's new relationship, she decides that though she doesn't want him, no one else can have him either. Can Phil and Allison's love weather the chaos Brandi brings into their lives?
Should you be willing to change for love?
Courage to Change is the second book in the 5-book contemporary Christian romance Grant Us Grace series. Set in the greater Washington D.C. area, the Grant Us Grace books provide thought-provoking spiritual threads wrapped up in swoonworthy romance.
Read the entire Grant Us Grace series today!
1. Wisdom to Know
2. Courage to Change
3. Serenity to Accept
4. Joint Venture
5. Pathway to Peace
When Phil Reid became a Christian and stopped drinking, his hard-partying wife Brandi divorced him. Reeling and betrayed, he becomes convinced Christians should never remarry, and resolves to guard his heart.
Allison Vasak has everything in her life under control, except for one thing. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to fellow attorney and coworker, Phil. Though she knows his history and believes that women should not initiate relationships, she longs to make her feelings known.
As Phil and Allison work closely together to help a pregnant teen, both must reevaluate their convictions. But when Brandi discovers Phil's new relationship, she decides that though she doesn't want him, no one else can have him either. Can Phil and Allison's love weather the chaos Brandi brings into their lives?
Should you be willing to change for love?
Courage to Change is the second book in the 5-book contemporary Christian romance Grant Us Grace series. Set in the greater Washington D.C. area, the Grant Us Grace books provide thought-provoking spiritual threads wrapped up in swoonworthy romance.
Read the entire Grant Us Grace series today!
1. Wisdom to Know
2. Courage to Change
3. Serenity to Accept
4. Joint Venture
5. Pathway to Peace
491 pages, ebook
First published April 8, 2013
46 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
69 books252 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 6, 2013
Book Two of the 'Grant Us Grace' Series.
Courage to Change was an interesting story containing spiritual depth. It wasn't preachy or patronizing in tone. The title fit the characters' journeys very well. We all need the courage to change our preconceived notions when God is steering our hearts in another direction. This novel confronted the issues facing guilt-ridden divorced Christian singles head-on. There are plenty of people in the church who may try to judge your motives, but only you and God know the truth. This should be the deciding factor regarding remarriage, not what people tell you in their opinion is right or wrong. This story illustrated that truth well. It also showed that there are long-lasting consequences to the choices we make. Whether we are Christians or not, it won't make the ramifications of poor choices go away. At the same time, Jesus will give us the strength to deal with them appropriately and in a way that glorifies Him, if we will just ask.
The author tackles a number of tough subjects, one being the issue of single parenting vs. abortion vs. adoption. These issues were handled well. There are many facets to adoption plans, and the author captured the many complexities in this story. I enjoyed the subplot with Lindsey as a secondary character. Marcus had a difficult situation to deal with, but he dealt with the issues appropriately. I felt bad for Phil and the problems his ex-wife had caused for him. I understood his guilt about his ex causing problems for Allison too. But in the end, true love wins every time. I enjoy stories where obstacles are fought and overcome, but not in a sappy way.
There were realistic feelings and issues in this book, but none of them were over-the-top. The author's writing was readable and not at all awkward. I would definitely recommend this series to people who want to read about tough issues but don't want to feel depressed afterward from the content.
Courage to Change was encouraging and inspiring to read. These characters felt like they could be my friends.
The Wordsmith Journal strives to guide readers to books of personal interest, with the understanding and respect that what appeals to some may not appeal to others. Therefore we attempt to keep our reviews focused on content, genre and style. The rating is necessary to make use of Goodreads and Amazon. It reflects the reviewer’s own level of enjoyment, but the review is intended to be informative for the benefit of all readers.
Courage to Change was an interesting story containing spiritual depth. It wasn't preachy or patronizing in tone. The title fit the characters' journeys very well. We all need the courage to change our preconceived notions when God is steering our hearts in another direction. This novel confronted the issues facing guilt-ridden divorced Christian singles head-on. There are plenty of people in the church who may try to judge your motives, but only you and God know the truth. This should be the deciding factor regarding remarriage, not what people tell you in their opinion is right or wrong. This story illustrated that truth well. It also showed that there are long-lasting consequences to the choices we make. Whether we are Christians or not, it won't make the ramifications of poor choices go away. At the same time, Jesus will give us the strength to deal with them appropriately and in a way that glorifies Him, if we will just ask.
The author tackles a number of tough subjects, one being the issue of single parenting vs. abortion vs. adoption. These issues were handled well. There are many facets to adoption plans, and the author captured the many complexities in this story. I enjoyed the subplot with Lindsey as a secondary character. Marcus had a difficult situation to deal with, but he dealt with the issues appropriately. I felt bad for Phil and the problems his ex-wife had caused for him. I understood his guilt about his ex causing problems for Allison too. But in the end, true love wins every time. I enjoy stories where obstacles are fought and overcome, but not in a sappy way.
There were realistic feelings and issues in this book, but none of them were over-the-top. The author's writing was readable and not at all awkward. I would definitely recommend this series to people who want to read about tough issues but don't want to feel depressed afterward from the content.
Courage to Change was encouraging and inspiring to read. These characters felt like they could be my friends.
The Wordsmith Journal strives to guide readers to books of personal interest, with the understanding and respect that what appeals to some may not appeal to others. Therefore we attempt to keep our reviews focused on content, genre and style. The rating is necessary to make use of Goodreads and Amazon. It reflects the reviewer’s own level of enjoyment, but the review is intended to be informative for the benefit of all readers.
May 27, 2013
Courage to Change was an interesting story containing spiritual depth. It wasn't preachy or patronizing in tone. The title fit the characters' journeys very well. We all need the courage to change our preconceived notions when God is steering our hearts in another direction. This novel confronted the issues facing guilt-ridden divorced Christian singles head-on. There are plenty of people in the church who may try to judge your motives, but only you and God know the truth. This should be the deciding factor regarding remarriage, not what people tell you in their opinion is right or wrong. This story illustrated that truth well. It also showed that there are long-lasting consequences to the choices we make. Whether we are Christians or not, it won't make the ramifications of poor choices go away. At the same time, Jesus will give us the strength to deal with them appropriately and in a way that glorifies Him, if we will just ask.
The author tackles a number of tough subjects, one being the issue of single parenting vs. abortion vs. adoption. These issues were handled well. There are many facets to adoption plans, and the author captured the many complexities in this story. I enjoyed the subplot with Lindsey as a secondary character. Marcus had a difficult situation to deal with, but he dealt with the issues appropriately. I felt bad for Phil and the problems his ex-wife had caused for him. I understood his guilt about his ex causing problems for Allison too. But in the end, true love wins every time. I enjoy stories where obstacles are fought and overcome, but not in a sappy way. There were realistic feelings and issues in this book, but none of them were over-the-top.
The author's writing was readable and not at all awkward. I would definitely recommend this series to people who want to read about tough issues but don't want to feel depressed afterward from the content. Courage to Change was encouraging and inspiring to read. These characters felt like they could be my friends.
The author tackles a number of tough subjects, one being the issue of single parenting vs. abortion vs. adoption. These issues were handled well. There are many facets to adoption plans, and the author captured the many complexities in this story. I enjoyed the subplot with Lindsey as a secondary character. Marcus had a difficult situation to deal with, but he dealt with the issues appropriately. I felt bad for Phil and the problems his ex-wife had caused for him. I understood his guilt about his ex causing problems for Allison too. But in the end, true love wins every time. I enjoy stories where obstacles are fought and overcome, but not in a sappy way. There were realistic feelings and issues in this book, but none of them were over-the-top.
The author's writing was readable and not at all awkward. I would definitely recommend this series to people who want to read about tough issues but don't want to feel depressed afterward from the content. Courage to Change was encouraging and inspiring to read. These characters felt like they could be my friends.
July 3, 2013
From the back of the book:
Book Two of the 'Grant Us Grace' Series. When Phil Reid became a Christian and stopped drinking, his hard-partying wife Brandi divorced him. Reeling and betrayed, he becomes convinced Christians should never remarry, and resolves to guard his heart. Allison Vasak has everything in her life under control, except for one thing. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to fellow attorney and coworker, Phil. Though she knows his history and believes that women should not initiate relationships, she longs to make her feelings known. As Phil and Allison work closely together to help a pregnant teen, Allison melts his defenses. But when Brandi discovers Phil's new relationship, she decides that though she doesn't want him, no one else can have him. Can Phil and Allison's love weather the chaos Brandi brings into their lives?
I truly enjoyed reading this book, it deals with some complicated topics in the Christian walk. How do we deal with divorce in a new Christians life? How should we deal with a teen pregnancy? These topics are dealt with in this story. I was happy with the way they were dealt with and the answers that were given. Grace is very important in the Christian walk, we need it in our lives and we need to give it to others.
The novel was enjoyable and easy to read, it was hard to put down at times. I really enjoyed Ms. Maddery’s writing and look forward to other novels she will write.
Book Two of the 'Grant Us Grace' Series. When Phil Reid became a Christian and stopped drinking, his hard-partying wife Brandi divorced him. Reeling and betrayed, he becomes convinced Christians should never remarry, and resolves to guard his heart. Allison Vasak has everything in her life under control, except for one thing. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to fellow attorney and coworker, Phil. Though she knows his history and believes that women should not initiate relationships, she longs to make her feelings known. As Phil and Allison work closely together to help a pregnant teen, Allison melts his defenses. But when Brandi discovers Phil's new relationship, she decides that though she doesn't want him, no one else can have him. Can Phil and Allison's love weather the chaos Brandi brings into their lives?
I truly enjoyed reading this book, it deals with some complicated topics in the Christian walk. How do we deal with divorce in a new Christians life? How should we deal with a teen pregnancy? These topics are dealt with in this story. I was happy with the way they were dealt with and the answers that were given. Grace is very important in the Christian walk, we need it in our lives and we need to give it to others.
The novel was enjoyable and easy to read, it was hard to put down at times. I really enjoyed Ms. Maddery’s writing and look forward to other novels she will write.
July 16, 2013
This is the story of Phil Reid, a lawyer who had been married, and was an alcoholic. He became a follower of Christ, changed his life, and quit drinking. His wife, Brandi, was unhappy that he no longer drank with her, was furious that he had become a Christian, and ultimately kicked him out of their home. Eventually they divorced, despite all his efforts to stay married and convert his wife.
In spite of Brandi remarrying, she has constantly made a pest of herself calling Phil when drunk, and crying for help, or money, or both. She often comes to where he lives, and makes scenes so bad the police are called. As time has gone on, she has gotten worse. Her actions have been getting more violent, including breaking into Phil’s home. Despite changing his telephone number and address, she continues tracking him down.
Allison is a lawyer at the same firm as Phil. She has liked him for a long time but has never gotten his attention, other than becoming really good friends. Then one day when they were going to share a piece of cake from the office, Phil tells her that he will never remarry because he has been divorced.
Heartbroken, Allison starts dating one of Phil’s clients, Marcus. Allison also develops a strong friendship with Marcus’ teenage daughter, Lindsay, who is pregnant. Although Lindsay really likes Allison, she isn’t ready for anyone to date her dad. At the same time Lindsay admits this, Phil seems to have changed his mind about dating, and is acting very interested in Allison.
There is a secondary story woven in here, too. It revolves around Lindsay’s pregnancy, including her boyfriend’s terrible behavior towards her. Also, Marcus’ anger about the entire situation, and the legal maneuvers he wants to pursue as punishment. Lindsay must decide if she will keep her baby, or put it up for adoption. Allison attempts to influence both Lindsay and Marcus to make the best decisions for all involved.
Does Phil desire to date Allison in a serious way, or is he just wanting to rekindle their good friendship? If Phil is serious, will Allison’s parents get past their disapproval of a divorced man marrying her? With Brandi’s behavior getting so much worse, will she physically harm Phil or Allison? Will Lindsay come to a decision that will make both her, and her dad, happy?
This story was well-written and the characters were very real. I liked all the twists and turns in the tale. It was realistic about the temptations and dilemmas Christians face while trying to live out their faith. Lindsay’s story was also very interesting, added depth to the book, and gave very good information about adoption, and the real issues a pregnant teen would need to face. The ending was very exciting!
The one thing I did question was the book cover. I wasn’t quite sure how that tied into the story-line. It doesn’t do anything to diminish the quality of the story, but it did arouse my curiosity.
This is the second book in the series “Grant us Grace.” This book is a stand-alone story. I did not read the first book, but didn’t have any problems following this story. I really enjoyed “Courage to Change,” recommend it, and give it five stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hope Springs Books, in exchange for a free book review through the http://www.bookcrash.com book review program. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.
My blog: http://fushiacat.wordpress.com/2013/0...
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMaddre
Her website: http://www.elizabethmaddrey.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMad...
More Information: http://chalfonthouse.com/hopespringsb...
In spite of Brandi remarrying, she has constantly made a pest of herself calling Phil when drunk, and crying for help, or money, or both. She often comes to where he lives, and makes scenes so bad the police are called. As time has gone on, she has gotten worse. Her actions have been getting more violent, including breaking into Phil’s home. Despite changing his telephone number and address, she continues tracking him down.
Allison is a lawyer at the same firm as Phil. She has liked him for a long time but has never gotten his attention, other than becoming really good friends. Then one day when they were going to share a piece of cake from the office, Phil tells her that he will never remarry because he has been divorced.
Heartbroken, Allison starts dating one of Phil’s clients, Marcus. Allison also develops a strong friendship with Marcus’ teenage daughter, Lindsay, who is pregnant. Although Lindsay really likes Allison, she isn’t ready for anyone to date her dad. At the same time Lindsay admits this, Phil seems to have changed his mind about dating, and is acting very interested in Allison.
There is a secondary story woven in here, too. It revolves around Lindsay’s pregnancy, including her boyfriend’s terrible behavior towards her. Also, Marcus’ anger about the entire situation, and the legal maneuvers he wants to pursue as punishment. Lindsay must decide if she will keep her baby, or put it up for adoption. Allison attempts to influence both Lindsay and Marcus to make the best decisions for all involved.
Does Phil desire to date Allison in a serious way, or is he just wanting to rekindle their good friendship? If Phil is serious, will Allison’s parents get past their disapproval of a divorced man marrying her? With Brandi’s behavior getting so much worse, will she physically harm Phil or Allison? Will Lindsay come to a decision that will make both her, and her dad, happy?
This story was well-written and the characters were very real. I liked all the twists and turns in the tale. It was realistic about the temptations and dilemmas Christians face while trying to live out their faith. Lindsay’s story was also very interesting, added depth to the book, and gave very good information about adoption, and the real issues a pregnant teen would need to face. The ending was very exciting!
The one thing I did question was the book cover. I wasn’t quite sure how that tied into the story-line. It doesn’t do anything to diminish the quality of the story, but it did arouse my curiosity.
This is the second book in the series “Grant us Grace.” This book is a stand-alone story. I did not read the first book, but didn’t have any problems following this story. I really enjoyed “Courage to Change,” recommend it, and give it five stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hope Springs Books, in exchange for a free book review through the http://www.bookcrash.com book review program. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.
My blog: http://fushiacat.wordpress.com/2013/0...
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMaddre
Her website: http://www.elizabethmaddrey.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMad...
More Information: http://chalfonthouse.com/hopespringsb...
August 12, 2013
Let me just start by saying that Courage to Change is an amazing book. The story grabbed me right from the start and I did not want to set this book down because it was so good. It is the second in a series, however, it is completely able to stand on its own. I now want to go back and read Wisdom to Know, which is the first book in the series and covers the story of Lydia and Kevin, who are also in this book.
Courage to Change tackles some tough issues. Phil Reid has struggled for years with the fact that his marriage fell apart when he chose to follow Christ and his wife kicked him out. He is divorced and convinced that he should not remarry based on biblical reasons. He is fighting a growing attraction to co-worker Allison Vasak. Allison is definitely attracted to Phil and knows he is divorced. She just considers this baggage from his past and it does not bother her at all. Allison battles feelings of sadness and feels left behind as she watches all of her friends find marriage partners. As Phil and Allison work together to help a pregnant teenager and her father, Phil begins to question his determination to stay single.
Will Phil and Allison be able to work out their feelings for each other? How does God feel about remarriage after divorce? Will Phil and Allison even have a chance at happiness if Phil’s vindictive ex-wife decides to cause problems?
This book is well written and just packed with interesting characters and events. It is really a testimony to overcoming all kinds of consequences that enter our lives as the result of sin. I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of Christian romance.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I have provided.
Courage to Change tackles some tough issues. Phil Reid has struggled for years with the fact that his marriage fell apart when he chose to follow Christ and his wife kicked him out. He is divorced and convinced that he should not remarry based on biblical reasons. He is fighting a growing attraction to co-worker Allison Vasak. Allison is definitely attracted to Phil and knows he is divorced. She just considers this baggage from his past and it does not bother her at all. Allison battles feelings of sadness and feels left behind as she watches all of her friends find marriage partners. As Phil and Allison work together to help a pregnant teenager and her father, Phil begins to question his determination to stay single.
Will Phil and Allison be able to work out their feelings for each other? How does God feel about remarriage after divorce? Will Phil and Allison even have a chance at happiness if Phil’s vindictive ex-wife decides to cause problems?
This book is well written and just packed with interesting characters and events. It is really a testimony to overcoming all kinds of consequences that enter our lives as the result of sin. I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of Christian romance.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I have provided.
May 18, 2017
Story about a young lawyer who is tossed into a situation with a family who is consulting with another lawyer (one she happens to have a giant crush on). Fun and easy read. Dramatic at times.
July 15, 2013
Courage To Change by Elizabeth Maddrey
Every day people are getting divorced, the numbers are staggering. Phil's marriage was over because he turned away from partying and towards God. His wife, Brandi did not approve of that and filed for divorce. After much counseling, Phil got divorced, realized that God still loves him and moved on with his life.
Enter Allison. Allison works with Phil and she has had a crush on him for years. They finally started dating but the real problems begin with Phil's past comes back to haunt them. Can Allison handle all the "Brandi Drama" or is Phil not worth it? I will not spoil the details for you but I would LOVE to know your thoughts. How much baggage can you handle in your boyfriend/girlfriend?
My personal opinion is that this book was great! The story was good and easy to follow, the characters were easy to love (except for Brandi of course-who we are supposed to hate). I enjoyed watching the relationship grow between Phil and Allison. There was a good bit of religious talk but it was not overwhelming.
I LOVED Allison's friends and their roles. The way they manipulated Allison and Phil was hilarious and very realistic to me. I can see myself pushing two people together JUST like they did!
I personally really liked Elizabeth Maddrey's writing style. My attention was captured at the beginning which is great! I was a TINY bit bored at a point in the middle but the end........wow....... I was captivated! I was gasping, giggling, crying and....well.....the list goes on but alas, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
***This book was given to me in exchange for an open and honest review***
May 7, 2013
This was a beautifully wrote book. I need to have an emotional investment in the characters in order to identify with the character desires and romance. You have to want them to fall in love and overcome all obstacles. With Phil and Allison I felt the sparks flying, the internal turmoil over past choices and future consequences and I was hooked. I was rooting for them and irritated with Brandi. I was invested.
I don't really get inspired by the looks of the characters, cause lets face it we all have our own :"look" that we are attracted to and sadly too many authors spend to much time describing what they hope will be the perfect man for all physically only to fall short and ruin the book. I prefer the subtlety, the layered emotional attraction, the applied without being specific so you can insert your own physical attributes to make the character your desire as well.
The book has a solid Christan theme throughout that spoke to the characters true desires in life. The desire to honor God above all else, including your own happiness.
I would recommed this book to anyone over 18 due to mature adult related content with in the book.
I don't really get inspired by the looks of the characters, cause lets face it we all have our own :"look" that we are attracted to and sadly too many authors spend to much time describing what they hope will be the perfect man for all physically only to fall short and ruin the book. I prefer the subtlety, the layered emotional attraction, the applied without being specific so you can insert your own physical attributes to make the character your desire as well.
The book has a solid Christan theme throughout that spoke to the characters true desires in life. The desire to honor God above all else, including your own happiness.
I would recommed this book to anyone over 18 due to mature adult related content with in the book.
July 17, 2014
Elizabeth Maddrey has done it again in this book, Courage to Change. Her story is well written and her character are well developed. This is the second in the Grant Us Grace series, following Wisdom to Know. It is not necessary to read the first book to thoroughly enjoy this book. I look forward to reading Wisdom to Know, since I enjoyed this book so much. Once you start this book you won’t want to put it down!
Phil Reid was a fun loving party guy with a wife of the same, but when he becomes a Christian his whole life changes. He no longer enjoys the ways of the world, drinking and partying, but his wife Brandi wants nothing to do with the new Phil and divorces him. When Phil becomes interested in Allison Vasek, Brandi goes berserk! You won’t believe the level of malice she goes through! The author dealt realistically with many issues; divorce and remarriage, abortion, adoption, forgiveness, and the “baggage of life” from a Christian perspective while not being preachy. I enjoy this author and look forward to reading more of her books.
Phil Reid was a fun loving party guy with a wife of the same, but when he becomes a Christian his whole life changes. He no longer enjoys the ways of the world, drinking and partying, but his wife Brandi wants nothing to do with the new Phil and divorces him. When Phil becomes interested in Allison Vasek, Brandi goes berserk! You won’t believe the level of malice she goes through! The author dealt realistically with many issues; divorce and remarriage, abortion, adoption, forgiveness, and the “baggage of life” from a Christian perspective while not being preachy. I enjoy this author and look forward to reading more of her books.
July 9, 2013
Elizabeth Maddrey has written an honest, thought-provoking inspirational novel that explores the everyday lives of a band of friends who work through the ups and downs in their relationships, romantic and otherwise. While the requisite love triangles (and relational misfires) provide some drama and intensity to the plot, this second book in her Grant Us Grace series is a character-driven story that invites you to settle in for the long term and get to know a new set of friends.
Although these are Christian themed works, the stories are true-to-life and don't whitewash the sins and struggles that most of us face at one time or another. In her first novel, Wisdom to Know, Maddrey set as her background the issue of abortion. In Courage to Change she considers topics such as adoption, dating, and divorce and remarriage. This is no agenda-driven novel, however, and her themes complement rather than detract from the overall solid storytelling.
Although these are Christian themed works, the stories are true-to-life and don't whitewash the sins and struggles that most of us face at one time or another. In her first novel, Wisdom to Know, Maddrey set as her background the issue of abortion. In Courage to Change she considers topics such as adoption, dating, and divorce and remarriage. This is no agenda-driven novel, however, and her themes complement rather than detract from the overall solid storytelling.
March 24, 2014
I enjoyed this book for several reasons:
I loved Allison, the main character. She's a bit quirky but strong and steady.
I liked the issues tackled: adoption and dating after divorce. I felt they were both handled well and without being preachy.
I liked catching up with the characters from the first book in the series--giving readers a chance to get to know them a bit more and to enjoy what happens next in their story.
Overall, it's a great book. You don't have to read the first book in the series to enjoy this one.
Fans of Christian fiction, especially those who enjoy books about real, imperfect people will enjoy this book.
I loved Allison, the main character. She's a bit quirky but strong and steady.
I liked the issues tackled: adoption and dating after divorce. I felt they were both handled well and without being preachy.
I liked catching up with the characters from the first book in the series--giving readers a chance to get to know them a bit more and to enjoy what happens next in their story.
Overall, it's a great book. You don't have to read the first book in the series to enjoy this one.
Fans of Christian fiction, especially those who enjoy books about real, imperfect people will enjoy this book.
November 18, 2014
Second in a series, yet this book can be read alone. I loved reading this christian romance of second chances. The book grabs your attention at the very beginning making you feel that you can't put it down until the end. The emotions are so realistic that you feel you are the charactors in the story. I was given a copy for an honest review.
January 27, 2016
I listened to this book on Audio. It was a great book. I found it difficult to stop listening to it. It is well written. I fell in love with Phil and Allison. The characters seemed so real. I love the inspirational themes in this book.
July 6, 2013
Wonderful book.
September 20, 2021
God's grace is sufficient. Elizabeth Maddrey put His grace on full display in this book. She deals with issues we don't often discuss in our churches but so many of our members are constantly dealing with. Lindsey's story, combined with Lydia's story from book one, made my heart ache for them. Then the new issue with Phil and his ex...I couldn't stop reading. Can't wait to see what's in store for Karin.
March 5, 2018
I usually prefer mysteries and action, but I enjoyed this book, except one part of the ending (but I won't tell that spoiler). That one part is a reality reminder. Anyway, I love the characters, except these two are going to need to communicate better if they intend to be together, but who am I to judge. I make the same mistakes.
October 18, 2019
Elizabeth doesn't shy away from tough topics in her books--and Courage to Change is no exception! But amidst an edge-of-your-seat romance, we also see the characters taking the time to serve others in need, to dig a bit deeper into parental relationships, and to have the courage to discuss tough topics. A good read!
December 16, 2023
Great series!
September 24, 2013
When Phil Reid decided to straighten up his act and become a Christian his fun loving, partying wife Brandi divorces him, thing is she keeps popping up,and her behavior is becoming erratic. Phil is convinced that as a divorced Christian that he shouldn't remarry, but is drawn to his co-worker Allison Vasak who is the total opposite of Brandi. Allison finds herself drawn to Phil, and while she longs to share her feelings with him she has some pretty strong beliefs as well, one being that as a women she shouldn't be the one to start a relationship, but as they work together will they come to realize that God has his own ideas about their relationship?
"Courage To Change" was a book where the characters are dealing with all to real issues, that are really part of everyday life. Christians face life challenges every day,and the choices often aren't easy, but if we learn to let go and let God with his help we can figure out the right path to take. I found the characters faith refreshing, the author allows us to understand what they believe without being preachy. There are so many hot topics discussed such as teen pregnancy, adoption, along with divorce, and dealing with the past. Each is dealt with realistically, with the many twists and turns that life can throw our way. While this is the second book in the Grant Us Grace series it can be read as a stand alone work. I didn't read the first book but had no problems diving right into this story. Anyone looking for a story that has interesting characters, a clean romance, along with Christian themes that isn't preachy or overwhelming will enjoy reading "Courage to Change."
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
"Courage To Change" was a book where the characters are dealing with all to real issues, that are really part of everyday life. Christians face life challenges every day,and the choices often aren't easy, but if we learn to let go and let God with his help we can figure out the right path to take. I found the characters faith refreshing, the author allows us to understand what they believe without being preachy. There are so many hot topics discussed such as teen pregnancy, adoption, along with divorce, and dealing with the past. Each is dealt with realistically, with the many twists and turns that life can throw our way. While this is the second book in the Grant Us Grace series it can be read as a stand alone work. I didn't read the first book but had no problems diving right into this story. Anyone looking for a story that has interesting characters, a clean romance, along with Christian themes that isn't preachy or overwhelming will enjoy reading "Courage to Change."
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
March 8, 2016
I loved the story of Phil and Allison.
Phil vowed to never remarry because he became a Christian and was divorced.
Allison, a Christian is attracted to Phil.
They are thrown together more working with a pregnant team and sharing the same group of friends.
There is lots of suspense due to Brandi, Phil's ex wife.
We find this is a Romans 8: 28 romance "All things work together for good to those that love God...
I look forward to book 3 in the series.
I received a copy of the book from the author and give my honest review.
Phil vowed to never remarry because he became a Christian and was divorced.
Allison, a Christian is attracted to Phil.
They are thrown together more working with a pregnant team and sharing the same group of friends.
There is lots of suspense due to Brandi, Phil's ex wife.
We find this is a Romans 8: 28 romance "All things work together for good to those that love God...
I look forward to book 3 in the series.
I received a copy of the book from the author and give my honest review.
June 26, 2016
Courage to Change gives the reader a story of lives that are influenced by actions and circumstances. Some of the characters learn from their choices and some do not. Phil has changed his life and wants to live his life for God. But, his ex-wife, Brandi, feels betrayed. Allison helps Lindsey with decisions that affect Lindsey and others, too. We each face trials in life and how we deal with those trials is up to us. We need to go to God in prayer and ask for His help and forgiveness. This story gives lessons in forgiveness and grace.
January 4, 2017
Elizabeth will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next in this amazing book. Allison is a wonderful person. The things she does for her friends and family are truly remarkable. Phil is trying hard to get a closer relationship with her. Watching there relationship change is wonderful. When Lindsey needs Allison's help she is always there to help her out. Brandi is off the deep end. The stuff she goes through to try to get Phil back is really crazy. You will feel God working throughout this whole book.
July 24, 2016
In this Christian lit romance, Phillip and Allison start dating after working together for years. “Sometimes it really is better not to know the details.” This is a story of faith, courage and love. Maddrey tackles several sensitive topics including adoption, divorce, and waiting for God’s timing. This book contains drama and suspense but not violence, sex or profanity. Despite the serious topics, there are several fun scenes and moments of love and romance.
February 24, 2016
I like how she always addresses "tough" issues in a faith-based way. She shows how choosing certain paths impact not just the one choosing, but others as well. Her characters are realistic and "live" on the pages as you read. Always good message in the book, as well as romance etc. I like her style. Not just "fluffy", but has "guts".
June 6, 2016
I love Christian novels which are gritty and real. 'Courage to change' is both.
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