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Because of You
Thirty-two-year-old Samantha had everything a wife and mother could ask for in life. A loving husband, a beautiful daughter, and a baby on the way. Her life is thrown into a tailspin when her Army Sergeant husband Dakota goes missing in Afghanistan and assumed dead . . .
It's because of him she lost everything . . .
. . . It's because of her he's able to go on
It's because of him she lost everything . . .
. . . It's because of her he's able to go on
- GenresChristian FictionRomance
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2017
About the author
T.K. Chapin
109 books249 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 28, 2017
I totally enjoyed reading this book by a new to me author. Samantha is madly in love with her military husband Dakota. While expecting their second child Dakota is deployed. Sadly he never makes it home. Samantha has to learn to go on with her life and be a single mother at the same time. It seems that she has more than the usual share of troubles, but through it all, she keeps her Christian Faith. This is a nice, clean romance book, one that I would have no problems handing to my young daughter or nieces. It is refreshing to read a clean romance that doesn't have the couple shacking up in bed before getting married, or go into detail about their sexual experience.
I was given a review copy of the book, however, the opinions stated are my own.
I was given a review copy of the book, however, the opinions stated are my own.
August 8, 2017
Because of You is a stand alone book by T.K. Chapin.
Samantha is 32, and a mother to two young children. Her husband was in the army, and he has been reported missing, presumed dead. Her children, family and her faith in God have kept her strong, but she's been less than interested in starting a relationship with anybody in the two years it has been since she lost her husband.
That all changes when she meets a new guy, another army man. He is divorced, and he is on leave which he spends in town so he can spend time with his young daughter. It's through his and Sam's daughter that they meet. There is an instant attraction between our couple which starts some soul searching for Sam. She swore she'd never get involved with a military man again, she never thought she would even want to date again, yet she is so very tempted to follow her heart now.
Unfortunately for me, the romance seemed to take a back seat to many other dramas going on in the book. Sam first has to deal with losing her husband, then her best friend tries to commit suicide, her mother has a huge health dilemma, two young boys lose their mother and their father turns alcoholic, leaving Sam to practically take over the care of the boys. Her boss loses his business, meaning Sam loses her job, she even comes across a murderer who threatens her with a knife. There was so much drama, so much grief in this book that it kind of brought me down while I was reading it. I know life isn't a bed of roses, but poor Sam had more than her fair share going on.
I know the hardships she suffered were a perfect way for the author to discuss Sam's faith, and I get that without it she couldn't have coped with everything. Unfortunately at times the story got a little too preachy for me. There were so many prayers written, or quotes from the bible, especially in the second half of the book, that I was tempted to skip over them. But I wanted to be able to give a proper review of this book and that meant reading every word.
I think there was too much going on in the story whereas if the author had less going on, he could have spent more time on giving more detail to a few plots, rather than very little detail to too many plots. All in all I think if you like a very sweet, clean, sometimes depressing, faith based book, you will love this. I appreciate being asked to read and review this book for the author, but it definitely isn't the type of book I would read again.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Samantha is 32, and a mother to two young children. Her husband was in the army, and he has been reported missing, presumed dead. Her children, family and her faith in God have kept her strong, but she's been less than interested in starting a relationship with anybody in the two years it has been since she lost her husband.
That all changes when she meets a new guy, another army man. He is divorced, and he is on leave which he spends in town so he can spend time with his young daughter. It's through his and Sam's daughter that they meet. There is an instant attraction between our couple which starts some soul searching for Sam. She swore she'd never get involved with a military man again, she never thought she would even want to date again, yet she is so very tempted to follow her heart now.
Unfortunately for me, the romance seemed to take a back seat to many other dramas going on in the book. Sam first has to deal with losing her husband, then her best friend tries to commit suicide, her mother has a huge health dilemma, two young boys lose their mother and their father turns alcoholic, leaving Sam to practically take over the care of the boys. Her boss loses his business, meaning Sam loses her job, she even comes across a murderer who threatens her with a knife. There was so much drama, so much grief in this book that it kind of brought me down while I was reading it. I know life isn't a bed of roses, but poor Sam had more than her fair share going on.
I know the hardships she suffered were a perfect way for the author to discuss Sam's faith, and I get that without it she couldn't have coped with everything. Unfortunately at times the story got a little too preachy for me. There were so many prayers written, or quotes from the bible, especially in the second half of the book, that I was tempted to skip over them. But I wanted to be able to give a proper review of this book and that meant reading every word.
I think there was too much going on in the story whereas if the author had less going on, he could have spent more time on giving more detail to a few plots, rather than very little detail to too many plots. All in all I think if you like a very sweet, clean, sometimes depressing, faith based book, you will love this. I appreciate being asked to read and review this book for the author, but it definitely isn't the type of book I would read again.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
July 18, 2017
3.5 Stars
The beginning of the story was heart wrenching and quickly captured my attention. As the story unfolds following Samantha's life changing tragedy and move to Spokane, Washington, she's presented with new challenges along the way. Despite the ups and downs, her faith in God never waivers, in fact, as the book progresses so does her praying, bible reading/reciting, and presence at church.
After reading this novel from beginning to end, I've come to the conclusion that, while I read many different genres, Christian Romance that includes verses from the bible, drinking sparkling punch on a night out, and asking strangers to pray isn't quite my cup of tea and felt forced. I enjoyed the basis of the story immensely, but after about the 40% mark it seemed to become less of a spiritual read of a woman's journey (which is what I was hoping for) and more of a call to bible study/church. After chapters of that, I found myself losing interest because the preachy parts took away from the story (for me) and made it drag.
Certainly, there are people out there who will love this. It just wasn't for me.
The beginning of the story was heart wrenching and quickly captured my attention. As the story unfolds following Samantha's life changing tragedy and move to Spokane, Washington, she's presented with new challenges along the way. Despite the ups and downs, her faith in God never waivers, in fact, as the book progresses so does her praying, bible reading/reciting, and presence at church.
After reading this novel from beginning to end, I've come to the conclusion that, while I read many different genres, Christian Romance that includes verses from the bible, drinking sparkling punch on a night out, and asking strangers to pray isn't quite my cup of tea and felt forced. I enjoyed the basis of the story immensely, but after about the 40% mark it seemed to become less of a spiritual read of a woman's journey (which is what I was hoping for) and more of a call to bible study/church. After chapters of that, I found myself losing interest because the preachy parts took away from the story (for me) and made it drag.
Certainly, there are people out there who will love this. It just wasn't for me.
April 26, 2017
Because Of You by T.K. Chapin is a wonderful Christian contemporary romance which I really enjoyed. It was a fabulous storyline with a strong Godly message.
Because Of You shows how hard it is to be a military wife, especially when one's husband is posted overseas. "The sacrifice that is made is never just the soldier. but their families as well." There is also the presence of hope - hope in God and hope in ones loved ones.
God is a God of new beginnings. We need to trust that He is good. "Even when things seemed impossible, God was good." God is good all the time no matter what is happening in our lives. "God doesn't change based on our circumstances." God always has plans for our lives. Do we trust Him enough to follow His plan and in His timing?
Reaching out to others is another theme. We need to be the eyes and ears, hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.
The novel also has the topic of grief. "I knew no matter what you tried to do, the pain just wouldn't go away." Grief digs deep. Sometimes people turn to God. Sometimes people turn to other things such as alcohol. Nothing will numb the pain but God can help us through it.
There is the theme of family. Families pull together and support each other.
The novel is written in both the first and third person, as action moves between Spokane and Afghanistan. It was a clever literary device that worked well.
I really enjoyed Because Of You. I was so engrossed in the action that I literally gasped out loud at a crucial moment in the story!
A fabulous read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Because Of You shows how hard it is to be a military wife, especially when one's husband is posted overseas. "The sacrifice that is made is never just the soldier. but their families as well." There is also the presence of hope - hope in God and hope in ones loved ones.
God is a God of new beginnings. We need to trust that He is good. "Even when things seemed impossible, God was good." God is good all the time no matter what is happening in our lives. "God doesn't change based on our circumstances." God always has plans for our lives. Do we trust Him enough to follow His plan and in His timing?
Reaching out to others is another theme. We need to be the eyes and ears, hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.
The novel also has the topic of grief. "I knew no matter what you tried to do, the pain just wouldn't go away." Grief digs deep. Sometimes people turn to God. Sometimes people turn to other things such as alcohol. Nothing will numb the pain but God can help us through it.
There is the theme of family. Families pull together and support each other.
The novel is written in both the first and third person, as action moves between Spokane and Afghanistan. It was a clever literary device that worked well.
I really enjoyed Because Of You. I was so engrossed in the action that I literally gasped out loud at a crucial moment in the story!
A fabulous read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
April 26, 2017
What a beautiful story, a romance interlaced with twists, turns, and surprises.
I love how T.k. Chapin writes from a woman's perspective and how he vividly portrays her insecurities as she struggles to find happiness.
Most of all I love how God works in her life.
I recommend this book for anyone that likes Christian women's fiction.
I love how T.k. Chapin writes from a woman's perspective and how he vividly portrays her insecurities as she struggles to find happiness.
Most of all I love how God works in her life.
I recommend this book for anyone that likes Christian women's fiction.
June 30, 2017
First, the premise of this book seemed interesting enough and I do believe that it could have been a really good book. Plus, the characters were interesting and I did care to know what would happen to them.
BUT there quite a few things off about this book...
Mainly, when reading the book, I got the feeling that the author lost his focus at one point. It's a if there was no storyline... The book covered the life of Samantha after her husband goes missing in Afghanistan, but there was just way too many things going on. I also get the feeling that the author wanted to cover way to many subjects in one novel. He tries to tackle divorce, grief over the loss of a spouse, alcool abuse, physical abuse, teen pregnancy... It just felt a bit much! And trying to put everything into one book means that all these issues don't get treated long enough and it seems that they all just magically resolve within a few pages.
I wanted to like this book and only when I was almost done with the book did I have a bit of a harder time keeping on reading. But even if I kept on reading I was a little shocked each time another major issue coming up and getting results within a really small amount of time.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book. It didn't affect my review!
BUT there quite a few things off about this book...
Mainly, when reading the book, I got the feeling that the author lost his focus at one point. It's a if there was no storyline... The book covered the life of Samantha after her husband goes missing in Afghanistan, but there was just way too many things going on. I also get the feeling that the author wanted to cover way to many subjects in one novel. He tries to tackle divorce, grief over the loss of a spouse, alcool abuse, physical abuse, teen pregnancy... It just felt a bit much! And trying to put everything into one book means that all these issues don't get treated long enough and it seems that they all just magically resolve within a few pages.
I wanted to like this book and only when I was almost done with the book did I have a bit of a harder time keeping on reading. But even if I kept on reading I was a little shocked each time another major issue coming up and getting results within a really small amount of time.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book. It didn't affect my review!
May 28, 2017
I received an ARC galley of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book, fittingly, on Memorial Day. I, like the author, have grandfathers that served our country in the Armed Forces, and I recognize and appreciate the author's commitment to honoring the men and women who fight (and sometimes die) for our freedoms, one of which is the religious freedom to worship in the manner of our choice.
If it wasn't for them, and not only their sacrifice, but their family's sacrifice, we wouldn't have the beautiful and free country we have today...the sacrifice that is made is never just the soldier, but that of their families as well.
The author absolutely achieves his goal: writing literature appropriate for Conservative Christian readers. I only had a few qualms. First, the angry atheist trope seemed a little convenient, and I didn't connect with Damien's family in this storyline. Also, though in some ways it is reminiscent of Hemingway's style, the author doesn't seem to really use adjectives, adverbs, or many descriptors that I feel would flesh out the work and paint more vivid scenes.
What does this author do well? Writes dialogue that I can actually hear real people using in real scenarios and pens clean, wholesome books for Christian readers.
I read this book, fittingly, on Memorial Day. I, like the author, have grandfathers that served our country in the Armed Forces, and I recognize and appreciate the author's commitment to honoring the men and women who fight (and sometimes die) for our freedoms, one of which is the religious freedom to worship in the manner of our choice.
If it wasn't for them, and not only their sacrifice, but their family's sacrifice, we wouldn't have the beautiful and free country we have today...the sacrifice that is made is never just the soldier, but that of their families as well.
The author absolutely achieves his goal: writing literature appropriate for Conservative Christian readers. I only had a few qualms. First, the angry atheist trope seemed a little convenient, and I didn't connect with Damien's family in this storyline. Also, though in some ways it is reminiscent of Hemingway's style, the author doesn't seem to really use adjectives, adverbs, or many descriptors that I feel would flesh out the work and paint more vivid scenes.
What does this author do well? Writes dialogue that I can actually hear real people using in real scenarios and pens clean, wholesome books for Christian readers.
May 16, 2017
I wasn't impressed with this book in the beginning. I don't particularly care for romance and this book started off that way (with a few too many similes for added emphasis). This particular combination almost made me stop reading it.
Thankfully, I read it long enough for things to change.
I ended up really liking the story. It's an endearing story of the grace of God, alive and powerful, in those who choose daily to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. It's a wonderful story of inspiration demonstrating how God can turn the sorrows of life into joys if only we will seek Him.
The characters were fairly well developed. There was enough depth to them to make them seem real. I didn't particularly like Mason (too romantic) but I know there are a lot of ladies that will read this book and just love absolutely everything Mason says and does and want someone just like him!!!
The author did a good job of demonstrating different problems, obstacles, strengthens and weaknesses in the life of believers, and unbelievers, through the various characters. But more importantly, the author did an excellent job of conveying what the Christian way of life is all about. It's about learning about Jesus; it's about turning to the Word of God for direction and guidance, it's about growing in Grace which means it's all about Jesus, it's all about the King of Kings and Lord of Lord's--it's not about you, it's not about what you can do, overtly, to impress yourself and others--it's about changing your way of thinking, it's about learning about the life of Jesus Christ and conforming your thinking to the way He thinks. We are only able to change our thinking by getting to know Christ, growing in knowledge about Him, and applying what we have learned to our own experiences in life. This bittersweet story will touch your heart and hopefully inspire you to become better acquainted with your Lord Savior so you can know the boundless riches of His Grace.
Thankfully, I read it long enough for things to change.
I ended up really liking the story. It's an endearing story of the grace of God, alive and powerful, in those who choose daily to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. It's a wonderful story of inspiration demonstrating how God can turn the sorrows of life into joys if only we will seek Him.
The characters were fairly well developed. There was enough depth to them to make them seem real. I didn't particularly like Mason (too romantic) but I know there are a lot of ladies that will read this book and just love absolutely everything Mason says and does and want someone just like him!!!
The author did a good job of demonstrating different problems, obstacles, strengthens and weaknesses in the life of believers, and unbelievers, through the various characters. But more importantly, the author did an excellent job of conveying what the Christian way of life is all about. It's about learning about Jesus; it's about turning to the Word of God for direction and guidance, it's about growing in Grace which means it's all about Jesus, it's all about the King of Kings and Lord of Lord's--it's not about you, it's not about what you can do, overtly, to impress yourself and others--it's about changing your way of thinking, it's about learning about the life of Jesus Christ and conforming your thinking to the way He thinks. We are only able to change our thinking by getting to know Christ, growing in knowledge about Him, and applying what we have learned to our own experiences in life. This bittersweet story will touch your heart and hopefully inspire you to become better acquainted with your Lord Savior so you can know the boundless riches of His Grace.
August 4, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for fair review.
This book was well written. It did get a little preachy for me, but I loved the plot and the characters. The main character had a very optimistic out view on life, even after all the tragedy in hers. The boys and the kids added another layer. I liked how it all played out and how they dealt with all the ups and downs they went through individually, and as a couple.
I was mad throughout the book because of the first chapter and I battled with that throughout almost the whole book. I was glad the book took the turn it did, at the last of the book when the big reveal happened, I would have felt wronged if it had ended the way I thought it was going to.
All in all, good book, I think I will like it even more the next time I read it!!
This book was well written. It did get a little preachy for me, but I loved the plot and the characters. The main character had a very optimistic out view on life, even after all the tragedy in hers. The boys and the kids added another layer. I liked how it all played out and how they dealt with all the ups and downs they went through individually, and as a couple.
I was mad throughout the book because of the first chapter and I battled with that throughout almost the whole book. I was glad the book took the turn it did, at the last of the book when the big reveal happened, I would have felt wronged if it had ended the way I thought it was going to.
All in all, good book, I think I will like it even more the next time I read it!!
April 26, 2017
Because of You, written by T.K. Chapin, is a story that will tug at your heartstrings.
We meet a couple very much in love, dedicated to each other and to our country. Dakota is in the military and leaves for a deployment where he goes MIA. Samantha has to deal with being a military wife while taking care of their children…one of which didn’t meet his daddy before he left for deployment and then wondering if she'll ever see her best friend and lover again. Chapin isn’t afraid to touch on topics that aren’t always written about.
I found this to be a very romantic inspirational read, but it also had a tad bit of mystery woven within the story that tugs at the heartstrings in an unexpected way as it’s relatable in so many ways. Not your typical love story. Once again Chapin takes us on a trip through the lives of the characters in this Christian Romance in a way that you feel you’re able to be in on the conversations in this first person read.
I would suggest this read for older teens on up. Clean, romantic, inspirational and godly read.
We meet a couple very much in love, dedicated to each other and to our country. Dakota is in the military and leaves for a deployment where he goes MIA. Samantha has to deal with being a military wife while taking care of their children…one of which didn’t meet his daddy before he left for deployment and then wondering if she'll ever see her best friend and lover again. Chapin isn’t afraid to touch on topics that aren’t always written about.
I found this to be a very romantic inspirational read, but it also had a tad bit of mystery woven within the story that tugs at the heartstrings in an unexpected way as it’s relatable in so many ways. Not your typical love story. Once again Chapin takes us on a trip through the lives of the characters in this Christian Romance in a way that you feel you’re able to be in on the conversations in this first person read.
I would suggest this read for older teens on up. Clean, romantic, inspirational and godly read.
May 2, 2017
This is a must read for all you fans of romance. T.K. Chapin has hit a home run with this one. A military wife trying to make her way as a single mother after her husband has been deployed to Afganistan. Then the grief that settles in when he is reported missing. You will love this book as it follows her with her ups and downs and leaves you with a surprise ending. This is a clean read and I highly recommend this book.
May 8, 2017
I received this free copy as a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review. I appreciate the compliment in being sought out to do so. A quick synopsis for those checking in. Samantha and Dakota are very happily married. They are the love of each other's life. However, army life is filled with unknowns. You go where they send you. What happens to your faith when you have to deal with one of life's greatest loss and challenges? First of all, I liked the idea of this story. I am a military brat...my whole entire childhood (dad was US Navy), so to base a character whose experiences revolve around what I could relate to was great. Second, being a Christian, I appreciated the clean yet swoon worthy feel I can get from a romance novel without all the dirty details. That was great. It was a good story. However, there were some things that I did have a difficult time with. The first one for me was that the characters were not as fleshed out as I normally like. We really don't know much about them at all. We know how they feel about their current situation, but that's about it. There are no descriptions about them, or reasons why they do what they do. They just are. The second one for me is the dialogue. It felt a bit disjointed and slightly juvenile. I don't know if that's editing or what, but the dialogue lacked emotion for me. It also moved very quickly, which isn't a bad thing in a book if you can get your point across, but in this book it felt rushed and disjointed. Things resolved super easily, and we move on. I loved that the characters prayed in every situation, but in my experience with prayer, many times some things just don't work out as easily as they did in this book. How nice would it be if that were actually the case though. Prayer isn't like rubbing a genies lamp to get your wish, and while I know that wasn't the intent of the author here, it had that feel. Granted, our main character did experience one of life's greatest challenges. I mean how much more can she go through? I just wish I could have felt her emotion to some extent. It wasn't there for me. Overall good story, just missed some marks for me.
April 29, 2017
Because of You by Author T.K. Chapin wrote a lovely book. I was fascinated how this book flowed smoothly from beginning to the end even with twists and turns. Because of You was interesting to read and also touched my heart and soul. I highly recommend reading Because of You and Author T.K. Chapin wrote another wonderful book for us. I'm excited to read his next book.
June 19, 2017
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this book from the author.
I haven't read many contemporary Christian novels, but I was excited about Because of You after reading the description. As an Army wife currently going through a deployment separation, I hoped this novel would be uplifting and encouraging in my situation. I also decided I would allow myself to quit reading if it proved to be "too close to home" (I don't want to imagine my husband getting injured, captured, or killed--would you?). As it turns out, the description is misleading: it's not really about the military, enduring a deployment, or even dealing with bereavement. Therein lies the problem at the heart of this book: it never really settles on a central theme or conflict.
The story opens with Samantha and Dakota preparing for a deployment that the Army decides to spring on them at the last minute. Ah, yes, I thought: I can relate. What else will they struggle with during this deployment? Fast forward two months. Dakota's unit is ambushed during a peacekeeping mission and the survivors are captured, with the chapter closing with Dakota's fate hanging ambiguously in the balance.
What happens next? How will Samantha deal with hearing that her husband is captured? How will their faith keep their hopes alive? How will Dakota's love for his family keep him going? Unfortunately, the author misses the opportunity to develop those tensions, because the next chapter fast forwards three years to the escape of a captured soldier who does not appear again until the closing pages. We never find out how Samantha dealt with those tough months of deployment and the horrible period of not knowing if her husband is alive or dead, apart from a couple of paragraphs of reflection two years after the fact. Neither do we ever see the hardships that Dakota endures while captured.
This ended up being a recurring problem throughout the book. As soon as the author introduces a new conflict ripe for potential analysis, it's brushed over and the plot moves on to the next conflict. It happened so frequently that I ended up very annoyed. Why introduce these issues (any one of which could provide a fully-developed plot) without elaborating? Without the depth, it turns into a plot gimmick. And boy, there were many to choose from: Sam's sister gets into a car wreck; they find out her sister has a different biological father; their mother gets cancer; Sam has a brush-in with a wanted murderer; her only friend in the book attempted suicide and is dealing with mental illness and a divorce; Sam befriends two troubled teens; one of the teens gets a girl pregnant; and on and on. Oy. Definition of soapy.
The main plot (to my surprise) turned out to be the romance between Samantha and a man she serendipitously meets two years after her husband goes MIA. But even in this, the book gets sidetracked. A random Bible study gets more detail than Samantha's conflicted feelings for her new flame.
In short, I just wasn't a fan of Because of You. I thought the writing was weak, the characters were two-dimensional, the Christian elements were preachy, and the plot meandered aimlessly in far too many directions. At the same time, I kept turning the pages to see what happened, which is more than I can say for other books that I never finished. After finishing, I'm frankly surprised by how many 5-star reviews it received, but to each his own!
I haven't read many contemporary Christian novels, but I was excited about Because of You after reading the description. As an Army wife currently going through a deployment separation, I hoped this novel would be uplifting and encouraging in my situation. I also decided I would allow myself to quit reading if it proved to be "too close to home" (I don't want to imagine my husband getting injured, captured, or killed--would you?). As it turns out, the description is misleading: it's not really about the military, enduring a deployment, or even dealing with bereavement. Therein lies the problem at the heart of this book: it never really settles on a central theme or conflict.
The story opens with Samantha and Dakota preparing for a deployment that the Army decides to spring on them at the last minute. Ah, yes, I thought: I can relate. What else will they struggle with during this deployment? Fast forward two months. Dakota's unit is ambushed during a peacekeeping mission and the survivors are captured, with the chapter closing with Dakota's fate hanging ambiguously in the balance.
What happens next? How will Samantha deal with hearing that her husband is captured? How will their faith keep their hopes alive? How will Dakota's love for his family keep him going? Unfortunately, the author misses the opportunity to develop those tensions, because the next chapter fast forwards three years to the escape of a captured soldier who does not appear again until the closing pages. We never find out how Samantha dealt with those tough months of deployment and the horrible period of not knowing if her husband is alive or dead, apart from a couple of paragraphs of reflection two years after the fact. Neither do we ever see the hardships that Dakota endures while captured.
This ended up being a recurring problem throughout the book. As soon as the author introduces a new conflict ripe for potential analysis, it's brushed over and the plot moves on to the next conflict. It happened so frequently that I ended up very annoyed. Why introduce these issues (any one of which could provide a fully-developed plot) without elaborating? Without the depth, it turns into a plot gimmick. And boy, there were many to choose from: Sam's sister gets into a car wreck; they find out her sister has a different biological father; their mother gets cancer; Sam has a brush-in with a wanted murderer; her only friend in the book attempted suicide and is dealing with mental illness and a divorce; Sam befriends two troubled teens; one of the teens gets a girl pregnant; and on and on. Oy. Definition of soapy.
The main plot (to my surprise) turned out to be the romance between Samantha and a man she serendipitously meets two years after her husband goes MIA. But even in this, the book gets sidetracked. A random Bible study gets more detail than Samantha's conflicted feelings for her new flame.
In short, I just wasn't a fan of Because of You. I thought the writing was weak, the characters were two-dimensional, the Christian elements were preachy, and the plot meandered aimlessly in far too many directions. At the same time, I kept turning the pages to see what happened, which is more than I can say for other books that I never finished. After finishing, I'm frankly surprised by how many 5-star reviews it received, but to each his own!
June 1, 2017
This is the first time I have been introduced to T.K Chapin and his novels. As a great fan of Christian literature, I jumped at the opportunity to receive a free copy of this book.
This is a lovely read. Through all the joy and tears, this book is quite refreshing. The writing flows naturally with short chapters that are direct and keeps you captivated.
This novel is filled with family drama that we all face. From teenage pregnancy to losing loved ones to acknowledging mental illness such as depression. And at every corner, we are simply reminded to place all our trust in God. At every situation…we should pause and pray. It was truly wonderful to see this played out at every chance. Chapin was able to reveal in his writings just how easy it is to pray and how simple a prayer needs to be.
With each chapter, I anxiously waited for Dakota’s homecoming. Every knock at the door… Every time the phone rang… My first thought always lead to the return of Dakota. And boy-oh-boy what a return that was! Chapin, you really knew how to open the floodgates right there! I will definitely be remembering your name and reading more of your novels.
Since “The Arrival”, I, like Samantha, could enjoy the rest of her fortune and surrender whole-heartedly into her love-story - With a gleeful heart void of any anxiety.
This is a lovely read. Through all the joy and tears, this book is quite refreshing. The writing flows naturally with short chapters that are direct and keeps you captivated.
This novel is filled with family drama that we all face. From teenage pregnancy to losing loved ones to acknowledging mental illness such as depression. And at every corner, we are simply reminded to place all our trust in God. At every situation…we should pause and pray. It was truly wonderful to see this played out at every chance. Chapin was able to reveal in his writings just how easy it is to pray and how simple a prayer needs to be.
With each chapter, I anxiously waited for Dakota’s homecoming. Every knock at the door… Every time the phone rang… My first thought always lead to the return of Dakota. And boy-oh-boy what a return that was! Chapin, you really knew how to open the floodgates right there! I will definitely be remembering your name and reading more of your novels.
Since “The Arrival”, I, like Samantha, could enjoy the rest of her fortune and surrender whole-heartedly into her love-story - With a gleeful heart void of any anxiety.
August 21, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for review.
I'm not here to rehash the plot or synopsis of a book, as many reviewers do - I'm more interested in the take home message from a story, the ideas and issues it deals with and how the characters grow.
So, to me, this is a story of how one begins to rebuild their life after tragedy - and to that end it is an enjoyable book. It is a quick-paced read. I finished in three days, within three sittings.
The books cover a vast range of themes - familial relationships, romantic relationships, friendship, divorce, death in a family, grief, mental illness and on the list goes. It is possible that the range issues could have been narrowed in order to explore a theme more in depth, and that would have preferable to me, but I still can't help but commend someone for writing about life and so many of its facets.
If I'm being honest, I struggled to identify with the main characters. Perhaps the issues they were dealing and the circumstances the characters found themselves in were too far from my reality. Perhaps I didn't find that their development was given the time and detail that I had expected. Many of the secondary characters were interesting and had very interesting back stories, but again, I would have liked to experience those characters in more detail.
With that being said and in summary, this book is, as a said earlier, a faith affirming story of life after tragedy. And if you are interested in faith based stories with large casts of interesting characters then I truly encourage you to give this book a try.
I'm not here to rehash the plot or synopsis of a book, as many reviewers do - I'm more interested in the take home message from a story, the ideas and issues it deals with and how the characters grow.
So, to me, this is a story of how one begins to rebuild their life after tragedy - and to that end it is an enjoyable book. It is a quick-paced read. I finished in three days, within three sittings.
The books cover a vast range of themes - familial relationships, romantic relationships, friendship, divorce, death in a family, grief, mental illness and on the list goes. It is possible that the range issues could have been narrowed in order to explore a theme more in depth, and that would have preferable to me, but I still can't help but commend someone for writing about life and so many of its facets.
If I'm being honest, I struggled to identify with the main characters. Perhaps the issues they were dealing and the circumstances the characters found themselves in were too far from my reality. Perhaps I didn't find that their development was given the time and detail that I had expected. Many of the secondary characters were interesting and had very interesting back stories, but again, I would have liked to experience those characters in more detail.
With that being said and in summary, this book is, as a said earlier, a faith affirming story of life after tragedy. And if you are interested in faith based stories with large casts of interesting characters then I truly encourage you to give this book a try.
October 28, 2020
DNF @ 90%
I know I know. Why didn't I just finish it? Well, I didn't immediately realize this was a Christian romance when I first picked it up, but decided to give it a try since this genre is not my cup of tea. The story actually seemed interesting. After reading most of this book and skimming through the last portion of it that I read, I realized that these books are not for me. I can't read a book where every thought is based on religion. That is just for me of course. My last straw was when Samantha prayed with Philip and basically called him a sinner. Also, the one thing I've been waiting to find out the entire book ended up disappointing me so I gave up.
The romance between Mason was blah at best as it was overshadowed by other dramas that occurred that were sort of swept under the rug with no real resolution. Again, the abundance of religious talk gave me a headache. So, I will chalk this up to its me, not the book necessarily. I really did try to like this book. That's why I gave it three generous stars.
I know I know. Why didn't I just finish it? Well, I didn't immediately realize this was a Christian romance when I first picked it up, but decided to give it a try since this genre is not my cup of tea. The story actually seemed interesting. After reading most of this book and skimming through the last portion of it that I read, I realized that these books are not for me. I can't read a book where every thought is based on religion. That is just for me of course. My last straw was when Samantha prayed with Philip and basically called him a sinner. Also, the one thing I've been waiting to find out the entire book ended up disappointing me so I gave up.
The romance between Mason was blah at best as it was overshadowed by other dramas that occurred that were sort of swept under the rug with no real resolution. Again, the abundance of religious talk gave me a headache. So, I will chalk this up to its me, not the book necessarily. I really did try to like this book. That's why I gave it three generous stars.
May 11, 2017
When Samantha Olsen’s beloved husband Dakota is reported missing during his deployment in Afghanistan, she must push past her grief and trust in God’s provision to raise their two young children alone and find employment. Jasper, the attractive bookstore owner gives her a job, but two years later, the business is about to close. Where can she go now? On top of that, she suspects Jasper may be in love with her, though she would rather remain friends. How can she move on with her life if the United States Army has still not officially declared her husband dead? Suddenly a handsome young man crashes into her life and asks for a chance. How can she open her heart again when she swore never to date another military man? It is only because of God that Samantha risks it all to start a new business, guide two struggling teenage boys toward Jesus, and fall in love again.
I am enjoying these sweet Christian romances from this author!
I am enjoying these sweet Christian romances from this author!
June 22, 2017
Finished this book this morning. I thank the author for giving me the privilege to read and review this on Goodreads.
This engaging, easy-to-read novel through its character Samantha demonstrates that faith in the true God should be central to one's life to be able to get through life's sufferings, hardships and just plain routines, which can't be complete without prayer, God's Word and fellowship with other Christians. Through it we touch people's lives, overcome our weaknesses and fears, and begin again.
One thing I may have wanted with the plot would be that Sam's suffering because of Dakota's death would have a longer focus so that we see how great a loss it must have been for her. I also would have tread carefully on the issue of Mason and Brianna, however the reader likes for Sam and Mason to be together. I would also add that there is biblical evidence that Christians who have died could be watching over us (Hebrews 12:1).
This engaging, easy-to-read novel through its character Samantha demonstrates that faith in the true God should be central to one's life to be able to get through life's sufferings, hardships and just plain routines, which can't be complete without prayer, God's Word and fellowship with other Christians. Through it we touch people's lives, overcome our weaknesses and fears, and begin again.
One thing I may have wanted with the plot would be that Sam's suffering because of Dakota's death would have a longer focus so that we see how great a loss it must have been for her. I also would have tread carefully on the issue of Mason and Brianna, however the reader likes for Sam and Mason to be together. I would also add that there is biblical evidence that Christians who have died could be watching over us (Hebrews 12:1).
January 10, 2018
I liked this book through Chapter 8; but after that I didn't like the book. It was too preachy. I felt the story was just a facade for the Author's sermons. This book should be titled, "T.K. Chapin's Sermons."
There were way more lows than highs in this book and it was one more calamity after another.
I am a Christian myself; but if I wanted to read sermons or a theological heavy book like this one I would have chosen something different.
I don't mind reading books that include scripture, faith, and Church; but I like reading books that show how they affect their lives. For example, Chloe Carley's "Boston Bride Salvation" or Liz Isaacson's "Three Rivers Ranch Romance" series of books.
I read the synopses of other books by this Author that were provided in this book and they seem to be more of the same. I doubt I will read any other books from this Author.
There were way more lows than highs in this book and it was one more calamity after another.
I am a Christian myself; but if I wanted to read sermons or a theological heavy book like this one I would have chosen something different.
I don't mind reading books that include scripture, faith, and Church; but I like reading books that show how they affect their lives. For example, Chloe Carley's "Boston Bride Salvation" or Liz Isaacson's "Three Rivers Ranch Romance" series of books.
I read the synopses of other books by this Author that were provided in this book and they seem to be more of the same. I doubt I will read any other books from this Author.
May 7, 2017
Because of You is another book from this author that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is a beautiful and touching story following Samantha, a military wife, who is trying to adjust to life and raising two small children after she is notified that her husband Dakota is reported missing in action and presumed dead. Her story pulled me in from the first pages, and there are twists and turns in the story that certainly kept me reading. It is also a beautiful story showing God's faithfulness in caring for His children even through the difficult times and that He is faithful to work all things out for good even when the future seems so unclear. This is another one from this author that I definitely recommend, and I am eagerly looking forward to his next book.
May 6, 2017
Author T.K. Chapin isn’t afraid to write about tough subjects. A beloved husband and father is deployed, and the worst happens. We walk through the grieving and healing process with Samantha, wanting the best for her and her children. You will laugh and cry as Samantha grows personally and spiritually. Throughout the hard things written about is an underlying thread of hope. Of knowing that no matter what happens, God is there in the midst of it. And I won’t spoil it, but there’s a surprise twist at the end that, well, surprised me!
April 20, 2020
Not what I expected
The reading is really hard to continue to hear. It's just, there is no emotion whatsoever and this story could be better if the person reading the words gave what it deserves. The story is okay but what I liked about it was that is was God referenced so I gave it two stars. Overall, not really what I expected to read. Would have loved to hear the fathers point of view throughout the story too. His experience during his captivity or something. Didn't really enjoy the story. Continued the book only because I can't start something without finishing it.
The reading is really hard to continue to hear. It's just, there is no emotion whatsoever and this story could be better if the person reading the words gave what it deserves. The story is okay but what I liked about it was that is was God referenced so I gave it two stars. Overall, not really what I expected to read. Would have loved to hear the fathers point of view throughout the story too. His experience during his captivity or something. Didn't really enjoy the story. Continued the book only because I can't start something without finishing it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2017
The author provided me a copy of Because of You in exchange for an honest review. First, I have to say I love the cover of this book. However, I didn’t enjoy the novel. The writing was very surface level. It felt as if the author was sharing a quick retelling of a story and not creating a story. There was also a little too much preaching for my preference.
May 19, 2017
This is a really interesting read, heartbreaking, and touching at the same time. You don't often find a story about the families our troops leave behind. Received this book from the author for my honest review.
May 26, 2017
Was lucky enough to be invited by the author to read this book right before Memorial Day Weekend. So happened as one of my daughters just got married to a service member so the spirit of the book really touched me.
The book has a few surprising twists and an inspiring Christian soul.
The book has a few surprising twists and an inspiring Christian soul.
January 16, 2019
Another Winner
I really enjoy these books! They are so heart felt, and with all the love and chaos of life. Still keeping with the basic answer to life is in our trust and faith in God. These are very good reads! Very inspirational!
I really enjoy these books! They are so heart felt, and with all the love and chaos of life. Still keeping with the basic answer to life is in our trust and faith in God. These are very good reads! Very inspirational!
May 6, 2017
Excellent book
This book was amazing. Highly recommend this one. This author is hands down a great author. Very well written and very easy to read. I couldn't put this book down.
This book was amazing. Highly recommend this one. This author is hands down a great author. Very well written and very easy to read. I couldn't put this book down.
May 12, 2017
Because of You
Excellent well written story about faith, family, love, loss. I recommend this book and author . A enjoyable story of family.
Excellent well written story about faith, family, love, loss. I recommend this book and author . A enjoyable story of family.
October 15, 2020
Sam is a widow of a Military husband who had two children and leads to this people to the lord. Its rough getting on with her life but she learns to.
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