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When Heaven Strikes
Can love survive heaven’s wrath?
Artist Ted Armstrong lives a solitary and eccentric life. The survivor of child abuse disguised as religion, Ted has cut himself off from the world.
Then Ted meets Anderson Taylor, and it’s like being struck by lightning.
Anderson is a cardiac surgeon whose passion for his work has consumed him. He fears he’ll never find a partner—until he sets eyes on Ted. It’s happening fast, but both men know what they feel is right.
Confronted with an angry preacher, a scandal, and an act of God that threatens to destroy everything, their relationship will face its first true test.
Artist Ted Armstrong lives a solitary and eccentric life. The survivor of child abuse disguised as religion, Ted has cut himself off from the world.
Then Ted meets Anderson Taylor, and it’s like being struck by lightning.
Anderson is a cardiac surgeon whose passion for his work has consumed him. He fears he’ll never find a partner—until he sets eyes on Ted. It’s happening fast, but both men know what they feel is right.
Confronted with an angry preacher, a scandal, and an act of God that threatens to destroy everything, their relationship will face its first true test.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2017
16 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
F.E. Feeley Jr.
19 books256 followersNoted author, poet, producer, and all-around badass, F.E. Feeley Jr. is one of the most important queer voices writing today. He lives in the Deep South with his fur babies, campaigning for social justice, and occasionally howling at the moon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 17, 2018
Now Available on Audible. Narrated by Vance Bastian
https://www.audible.com/pd/When-Heave...
https://www.audible.com/pd/When-Heave...
January 23, 2025
F.E. Feeley’s novel When Heaven Strikes covers all the bases for a satisfying emotional read. In fact, I found it so moving I had to pause the audiobook after the first chapter, download my digital copy, and read it! I didn’t want to miss a word. I have a tendency to get lost in Vance Bastain’s gorgeous voice, and I wanted to do this marvelous story justice.
I’m just going to stop here and say, after I finished reading When Heaven Strikes I queued up the audiobook. Vance Bastian’s performance surpasses everything I could have hoped for. Mr. Bastain finds something unique and special in every character, adding emotion and imparting meaning where I’m sure Mr. Feeley would want to have it. More than just entertaining, listening to the audio version of When Heaven Strikes is an experience in itself and I highly recommend it.
When Heaven Strikes follows Anderson and Ted whose initial attraction turns into a scorching hot hook-up. These two quickly find they have a powerful emotional connection as well and decide to pursue a relationship. We get to know these complex and interesting characters as they open up to each other, sharing experiences from their pasts and working through some intense moments together as the plot evolves.
I really enjoy the way F.E. Feeley crafts this story. Characters are woven throughout the novel, reappearing at crucial times and changing the course of the plot. The tension mounts steadily, and I finally just gave up guessing what might happen next. It’s exciting and moving and intense, and I’m not going to spoil it by saying another word!
I'm a new fan of F.E. Feeley’s writing and I’m completely captivated by the way he puts words together. Intriguing details and powerful reflections convey more than just the words themselves. I know I’ve found a gem when I enjoy a book even more the second time through, and I haven’t been able to resist re-reading one of Feeley’s books yet. In the case of When Heaven Strikes, it’s an added bonus to enjoy Vance Bastian’s outstanding performance as well.
an audio copy of When Heaven Strikes was provided by the author for the purpose of my review
I’m just going to stop here and say, after I finished reading When Heaven Strikes I queued up the audiobook. Vance Bastian’s performance surpasses everything I could have hoped for. Mr. Bastain finds something unique and special in every character, adding emotion and imparting meaning where I’m sure Mr. Feeley would want to have it. More than just entertaining, listening to the audio version of When Heaven Strikes is an experience in itself and I highly recommend it.
When Heaven Strikes follows Anderson and Ted whose initial attraction turns into a scorching hot hook-up. These two quickly find they have a powerful emotional connection as well and decide to pursue a relationship. We get to know these complex and interesting characters as they open up to each other, sharing experiences from their pasts and working through some intense moments together as the plot evolves.
I really enjoy the way F.E. Feeley crafts this story. Characters are woven throughout the novel, reappearing at crucial times and changing the course of the plot. The tension mounts steadily, and I finally just gave up guessing what might happen next. It’s exciting and moving and intense, and I’m not going to spoil it by saying another word!
I'm a new fan of F.E. Feeley’s writing and I’m completely captivated by the way he puts words together. Intriguing details and powerful reflections convey more than just the words themselves. I know I’ve found a gem when I enjoy a book even more the second time through, and I haven’t been able to resist re-reading one of Feeley’s books yet. In the case of When Heaven Strikes, it’s an added bonus to enjoy Vance Bastian’s outstanding performance as well.
an audio copy of When Heaven Strikes was provided by the author for the purpose of my review
July 23, 2017
When Heaven Strikes
F.E. Feeley, Jr.
CreateSpace, 2017
Imagine Dragons’ “Believer” is the song that kept running through my head as I read Fred Feeley’s latest, powerful novel about love and pain and cataclysm: “When Heaven Strikes.” So, when they make the movie about this, I get credit for choosing the theme song, ok?
“Not everything is a phase, remember that.”
A loving grandmother speaks these words to her terrified seven-year-old grandson as she rocks him in the aftermath of a terrifying brush with a tornado in the book’s prologue. It is an odd message, meant as much for the boy’s parents as it is for him, but It is a message the boy, Anderson, carries with him into adulthood. It is through the same grandmother, thirty years later, that Anderson meets Ted, a painter with a substantial local reputation, whom his grandmother commissions to paint a portrait of her garden in Indianola, Iowa, outside of Des Moines. The two men, in their late thirties, form an instant rapport, but each of them needs to negotiate the emotional hurts of his past. Both must be willing to risk the self-imposed, if comfortable, isolation of their lives.
This is a book that cuts close to the bone for Feeley. I’ve been waiting for him to write this, and I know something of its psychological and emotional roots. I was not disappointed, and once it gets past a little rocky writing in the beginning, the story pulls you in and ties you up in the lives of its three protagonists. A rich cast of secondary players amplifies the main plot threads, bringing them together in the narrative crescendo of the final drama. Eleanor, Anderson’s grandmother, is the lynchpin in the narrative, a warm, nurturing presence that influences Ted as much as it does Anderson. I particularly liked the fact that Eleanor is rich and socially prominent, not because that matters in itself, but because it suggests that such socio-economic power in the right hands can make people’s lives better. Eleanor is a force for good, and her garden is a metaphor for her big heart and her emotional courage.
Did you notice I mentioned three protagonists? The third makes a brief appearance at the beginning of the story, but doesn’t really draw our attention until the second half of the book. Jeffery is a Baptist preacher who first encounters Ted as he canvases the neighborhood with his teenaged son Josiah. Rigid and doctrinaire, Jeffery is all too familiar to Ted, whose own father was such an evangelical minister. But at first Ted knows nothings of who Jeffery is, not even his name: he merely takes note of the teenaged son and sees himself at the same age in the same predicament. It is Ted’s mildly silly brush-off of Jeffery’s door-to-door efforts that inadvertently triggers what will come later, when both Jeffery and Josiah become participants in the story.
“Wild as the wind is love” appears on the cover of “When Heaven Strikes” as a sort of subtitle. Love can be a violent thing; both as a strong emotion, and as a trigger for physical violence when it clashes with deeply-held prejudice or desperate fear. It takes no great mental leap to figure out that the wind, too, will play a part in this tale of love and its consequences.
I want Matt Bomer to play Ted in the movie. Just saying.
F.E. Feeley, Jr.
CreateSpace, 2017
Imagine Dragons’ “Believer” is the song that kept running through my head as I read Fred Feeley’s latest, powerful novel about love and pain and cataclysm: “When Heaven Strikes.” So, when they make the movie about this, I get credit for choosing the theme song, ok?
“Not everything is a phase, remember that.”
A loving grandmother speaks these words to her terrified seven-year-old grandson as she rocks him in the aftermath of a terrifying brush with a tornado in the book’s prologue. It is an odd message, meant as much for the boy’s parents as it is for him, but It is a message the boy, Anderson, carries with him into adulthood. It is through the same grandmother, thirty years later, that Anderson meets Ted, a painter with a substantial local reputation, whom his grandmother commissions to paint a portrait of her garden in Indianola, Iowa, outside of Des Moines. The two men, in their late thirties, form an instant rapport, but each of them needs to negotiate the emotional hurts of his past. Both must be willing to risk the self-imposed, if comfortable, isolation of their lives.
This is a book that cuts close to the bone for Feeley. I’ve been waiting for him to write this, and I know something of its psychological and emotional roots. I was not disappointed, and once it gets past a little rocky writing in the beginning, the story pulls you in and ties you up in the lives of its three protagonists. A rich cast of secondary players amplifies the main plot threads, bringing them together in the narrative crescendo of the final drama. Eleanor, Anderson’s grandmother, is the lynchpin in the narrative, a warm, nurturing presence that influences Ted as much as it does Anderson. I particularly liked the fact that Eleanor is rich and socially prominent, not because that matters in itself, but because it suggests that such socio-economic power in the right hands can make people’s lives better. Eleanor is a force for good, and her garden is a metaphor for her big heart and her emotional courage.
Did you notice I mentioned three protagonists? The third makes a brief appearance at the beginning of the story, but doesn’t really draw our attention until the second half of the book. Jeffery is a Baptist preacher who first encounters Ted as he canvases the neighborhood with his teenaged son Josiah. Rigid and doctrinaire, Jeffery is all too familiar to Ted, whose own father was such an evangelical minister. But at first Ted knows nothings of who Jeffery is, not even his name: he merely takes note of the teenaged son and sees himself at the same age in the same predicament. It is Ted’s mildly silly brush-off of Jeffery’s door-to-door efforts that inadvertently triggers what will come later, when both Jeffery and Josiah become participants in the story.
“Wild as the wind is love” appears on the cover of “When Heaven Strikes” as a sort of subtitle. Love can be a violent thing; both as a strong emotion, and as a trigger for physical violence when it clashes with deeply-held prejudice or desperate fear. It takes no great mental leap to figure out that the wind, too, will play a part in this tale of love and its consequences.
I want Matt Bomer to play Ted in the movie. Just saying.
July 28, 2017
Fiction is frequently a black and white rendering of the real world. Good guys vs. bad guys, beginning and an end, undying love and deep-ingrained hate. I find comfort in that, many of us do. It's simple, straightforward, easy. A way to relax. Nothing wrong with that. But when a book transcends that, when it excels in showing the human existence as multifaceted and as colorful as it can be...that's when reading a story can make you into a better person.
It takes courage to look for goodness and love in debris and hate, and it takes a brilliance of mind to find it. Mr. Feeley's writing is both courageous and brilliant.
It takes courage to look for goodness and love in debris and hate, and it takes a brilliance of mind to find it. Mr. Feeley's writing is both courageous and brilliant.
November 9, 2017
I'm quite happy to say I've only seen a few people and a few reviews of this book referring to it as a romance—because it's not. That's a constant uphill battle for writers of queer fictions, and while there is definitely a love story throughout When Heaven Strikes, it bears repeating: check the category before you read, and you'll see it immediately. Fiction, not romance.
I have to admit, too, there was a moment of dialog in the book that made me laugh out loud: “No. This isn’t some romance novel where there has to be an attraction, the hookup, an antagonistic split, followed by the inevitable swelling of a symphony as the two characters get back together.”
That said, let's talk faith wielded as a weapon of assault, surviving the damage, and potential forgiveness.
I have—at best—a guardedly neutral relationship with faith. The vast majority of my experiences with faith have led me to avoid it completely, and to keep a self-protective distance with those who carry it as a torch or a centrepoint of their lives. If there was a character I related to in this book, it was Ted, who survived an abusive, violent past at the hands of a faith-obsessed father. Now, that's not my past, but I am a survivor of violence, and that played into my reading quite a bit.
The first half of this story involves Ted and Anderson, a chance connection that shows promise and depth, and their decision to give it a shot. The intersection with the second half of the novel—which springboards off Ted's interaction with another door-to-door peddler of hateful faith—involves the priest, his sons and wife, and the dark snarl of self-loathing and misguided use of their faith. The two halves form a very light-and-dark tipping point in the story, and the shift in tone is all the more sudden for the difference.
I enjoyed When Heaven Strikes. The narrative also kept me at a distance. That was my own history, emotionality, and life at play, though, not a fault of the story. I don't generally do well with redemption arcs that feature former abusers, for one, and for another, I have to work very, very hard to see the frameworks of faith as it was presented here as anything other than something to be wary of. That's my history. Survivors survive (and thrive) in different ways; some forgive, some move on without forgiveness, both are valid. At no point did I feel the characters involved were making choices that weren't internally consistent by the epilogue. But the choices they made had me stepping back.
When faith plays a central role in fiction, though, I know that's what I'm likely to see. I wasn't unprepared, and like I said, it never felt unreal. If you're someone who similarly struggles with the topics of faith, how faith is so often wielded as an excuse to violently assault others, and forgiveness of those who have wielded it thus, it would do you well to go into When Heaven Strikes forewarned.
I should also note I listened to this book on audio, and it was splendidly performed by Vance Bastian, who crafted voice enough for each character that when there were a few "he/him" moments of confusion, the voice made it clearer than it would have been in print. More, Vance just has a velvety "smoothness" to him I really enjoyed and played well into the gentle counterpoints of the book, and his projection of emotionality in the characters never felt forced or over-the-top. I'm definitely going to keep an eye out for more of his performances.
I have to admit, too, there was a moment of dialog in the book that made me laugh out loud: “No. This isn’t some romance novel where there has to be an attraction, the hookup, an antagonistic split, followed by the inevitable swelling of a symphony as the two characters get back together.”
That said, let's talk faith wielded as a weapon of assault, surviving the damage, and potential forgiveness.
I have—at best—a guardedly neutral relationship with faith. The vast majority of my experiences with faith have led me to avoid it completely, and to keep a self-protective distance with those who carry it as a torch or a centrepoint of their lives. If there was a character I related to in this book, it was Ted, who survived an abusive, violent past at the hands of a faith-obsessed father. Now, that's not my past, but I am a survivor of violence, and that played into my reading quite a bit.
The first half of this story involves Ted and Anderson, a chance connection that shows promise and depth, and their decision to give it a shot. The intersection with the second half of the novel—which springboards off Ted's interaction with another door-to-door peddler of hateful faith—involves the priest, his sons and wife, and the dark snarl of self-loathing and misguided use of their faith. The two halves form a very light-and-dark tipping point in the story, and the shift in tone is all the more sudden for the difference.
I enjoyed When Heaven Strikes. The narrative also kept me at a distance. That was my own history, emotionality, and life at play, though, not a fault of the story. I don't generally do well with redemption arcs that feature former abusers, for one, and for another, I have to work very, very hard to see the frameworks of faith as it was presented here as anything other than something to be wary of. That's my history. Survivors survive (and thrive) in different ways; some forgive, some move on without forgiveness, both are valid. At no point did I feel the characters involved were making choices that weren't internally consistent by the epilogue. But the choices they made had me stepping back.
When faith plays a central role in fiction, though, I know that's what I'm likely to see. I wasn't unprepared, and like I said, it never felt unreal. If you're someone who similarly struggles with the topics of faith, how faith is so often wielded as an excuse to violently assault others, and forgiveness of those who have wielded it thus, it would do you well to go into When Heaven Strikes forewarned.
I should also note I listened to this book on audio, and it was splendidly performed by Vance Bastian, who crafted voice enough for each character that when there were a few "he/him" moments of confusion, the voice made it clearer than it would have been in print. More, Vance just has a velvety "smoothness" to him I really enjoyed and played well into the gentle counterpoints of the book, and his projection of emotionality in the characters never felt forced or over-the-top. I'm definitely going to keep an eye out for more of his performances.
January 10, 2018
The first part (11 chapters) is a standard boy-meets-boy story, when the brooding artist Ted meets lonely cardiovascular surgeon Anderson, scion of one of the wealthiest families in town. Imagine me rolling my eyes at the professions and at the insta-attraction ;-). Still, I liked it. There was also a lovely prologue told from the POV of a 7 years old Anderson.
The second part of the book (the remaining 7 chapters and the epilogue) is told in different POVs of the family members of the preacher we already met at the beginning. The whole thing was too melodramatic, with unbelievable character developments, especially in the preacher, and on top a natural catastrophe. I dislike religious fundamentalism, but I also dislike didactic intents from writers: here we are shown the repercussions of a fundamentalist education twice, once because of Ted's background, then again -much more extensively - with the preacher's family.
Warnings: homophobic slurs, homophobic attack, mental illness, gun violence.
The second part of the book (the remaining 7 chapters and the epilogue) is told in different POVs of the family members of the preacher we already met at the beginning. The whole thing was too melodramatic, with unbelievable character developments, especially in the preacher, and on top a natural catastrophe. I dislike religious fundamentalism, but I also dislike didactic intents from writers: here we are shown the repercussions of a fundamentalist education twice, once because of Ted's background, then again -much more extensively - with the preacher's family.
Warnings: homophobic slurs, homophobic attack, mental illness, gun violence.
March 31, 2018
4.5 stars from me. Wasn't really sure what to expect from this story to be honest. I know Fred is very outspoken about conversion therapy and religion in general as a result of his fundamentalist upbringing, but would that leach over into his writing?? Well, yes and no. What we have here first and foremost is a romance between two men, coming from vastly different backgrounds and meeting purely by chance when Anderson's grandmother meets an artist Ted, and is impressed enough with his work to commission a painting from him.
Anderson is a renowned heart surgeon, and that's basically all he does. He has his work and comes home to an empty house and an empty feeling in his chest. Ted was brought up in a very strict and religiously extreme household, and when he turned 18, walked out after years of abuse. The love story that unfolded between them was beautiful to watch, but intertwined with that story is a story of hate, bigotry and being so far back in the closet that the abused becomes the abuser.
Josiah Stiles' father is a minister of the local church, and puts the fear of God into his family. James, Josiah's brother has already left the house, unable to take any more of the religious crap, and tries to finally lead a normal life. When Jeff Stiles drags Josiah with him on his mission to save humanity from the dreaded gays, they meet Ted and Anderson and Jeff Stiles attacks Ted, expecting I'm sure, that Ted will just accept his punishment like the deviant he is....cos all gay guys are wusses as we know. What happens changes several peoples lives, and lots of hidden secrets come out into the open.
A tornado is threatening the little town in Iowa, and God is sending Mother Nature to bring down his wrath upon his subjects. Enjoy!!
Anderson is a renowned heart surgeon, and that's basically all he does. He has his work and comes home to an empty house and an empty feeling in his chest. Ted was brought up in a very strict and religiously extreme household, and when he turned 18, walked out after years of abuse. The love story that unfolded between them was beautiful to watch, but intertwined with that story is a story of hate, bigotry and being so far back in the closet that the abused becomes the abuser.
Josiah Stiles' father is a minister of the local church, and puts the fear of God into his family. James, Josiah's brother has already left the house, unable to take any more of the religious crap, and tries to finally lead a normal life. When Jeff Stiles drags Josiah with him on his mission to save humanity from the dreaded gays, they meet Ted and Anderson and Jeff Stiles attacks Ted, expecting I'm sure, that Ted will just accept his punishment like the deviant he is....cos all gay guys are wusses as we know. What happens changes several peoples lives, and lots of hidden secrets come out into the open.
A tornado is threatening the little town in Iowa, and God is sending Mother Nature to bring down his wrath upon his subjects. Enjoy!!
January 14, 2020
F.E. Feeley, Jr. is a new author to me and I really enjoyed reading When Heaven Strikes with its cast of characters. We first meet Anderson Taylor as a child terrorized by a tornado, and comforted by his beloved grandmother, Eleanor. Eleanor sees how his parents try to mold this sensitive boy into something less "effeminate" and she reminds Anderson:
But When Heaven Strikes isn't just about these two men - the story encompasses others in their sphere - Pastor Jeff Stiles, an anti-gay religious fanatic and his reluctant son Josiah who knock on Ted's door to evangelize; Josiah's older brother James and his girlfriend; the death of one of Anderson's patients Joyce; Jeff's ongoing relationship that proves the adage “We hate in others what we see in ourselves". These lives intertwine and impact one another and give us a broader understanding of people we initially see as a stereotype.
While I liked the relationship between Anderson and Ted, 4 stars for When Heaven Strikes.
I received an ARC from the author, via Gay Book Promotions, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
“You can be anyone you want to be and do anything you want to do, Anderson. Not everything is a phase. Remember that.”Years later, Eleanor commissions a painting from Ted Armstrong, who was "raised in a very rigid, religious, and stern fundamentalist household. Religion dominated [his] life." Ted, like Anderson, has been held hostage by his parent's expectations and each had had difficulty in relationships but when these two men meet each other, there's an instant attraction and chemistry.
But When Heaven Strikes isn't just about these two men - the story encompasses others in their sphere - Pastor Jeff Stiles, an anti-gay religious fanatic and his reluctant son Josiah who knock on Ted's door to evangelize; Josiah's older brother James and his girlfriend; the death of one of Anderson's patients Joyce; Jeff's ongoing relationship that proves the adage “We hate in others what we see in ourselves". These lives intertwine and impact one another and give us a broader understanding of people we initially see as a stereotype.
While I liked the relationship between Anderson and Ted, 4 stars for When Heaven Strikes.
Sometimes when heaven strikes, it comes in the form of a fierce storm. A knock at the door. A phone number slipped into a back pocket. Sometimes it comes with the sweetest of circumstances or the hardest of lessons.
I received an ARC from the author, via Gay Book Promotions, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
December 1, 2017
I don't often read books that have religious overtones. It makes me furious enough seeing how people twist things to suit them in the name of religion in real life and that carries over for me into reading. It may be a good thing because if written well (and this story is VERY well written), I can really feel a lot of emotion. This audiobook brought out just about every emotion I have. I felt angry that some parents don't know the meaning of unconditional love, I felt grateful that the characters were able to find that unconditional love in others to replace what their parents couldn't give, I felt the rush of new love, strong, but just beginning and I felt a huge sense of family.
Ted, an artist from a fanatically religious family was so sweet. Even having to face so many things growing up alone for the most part, he was still just a very endearing character. I appreciated that for all it made him introverted, it also made him determined and even though it did cloud his thinking, it didn't overshadow it enough to stop him from trying to be the best him he could be and it didn't stop him from grabbing his slice of happy when it was in front of him. One of the things that I liked most about this character was that he could have been angst ridden, making poor decisions based on fear and feeling inadequate. But he was very adult and thought things through for the most part before acting out. I was glad that he took a chance on Anderson. The relationship between the two of them becomes intimate rather quickly but again it is written so well and flows with the story so seamlessly that it just works. And boy do they ever work well together! I sometimes skip over sex scenes and there are many reasons that I do, but these two together were perfection and just the right amount of sexy to make me wonder if the temperature in the room had gone up.
Anderson is the person that started off the story and I loved him from the very first moment. I love everything about him. He is a thoughtful, loving, smart and fun character. That he too is willing to take a shot at the big L when things in his past haven't been perfect in a completely different way than Ted made me very happy. That this character was able to navigate this budding romance into a relationship in an adult manner was like the cherry on top of the sundae for me.
The secondary characters were amazing I loved some of them instantly I disliked some of them instantly and I even changed my mind about how I felt about one or two of them. They MADE this story what it is, in my opinion. Oh, that religion thing? It was an important part of the story but done in a very nice way and it really hits home that heaven can strike at any time. I enjoyed this story immensely.
The narration was simply amazing! I love Vance Bastian's voice, the way he emotes, the different characters, it was all perfection. Some narrators take their time and put their all into the stories they narrate and Vance is one of those narrators. I appreciate it when they really get into the characters, it makes the stories that much better for me.
Ted, an artist from a fanatically religious family was so sweet. Even having to face so many things growing up alone for the most part, he was still just a very endearing character. I appreciated that for all it made him introverted, it also made him determined and even though it did cloud his thinking, it didn't overshadow it enough to stop him from trying to be the best him he could be and it didn't stop him from grabbing his slice of happy when it was in front of him. One of the things that I liked most about this character was that he could have been angst ridden, making poor decisions based on fear and feeling inadequate. But he was very adult and thought things through for the most part before acting out. I was glad that he took a chance on Anderson. The relationship between the two of them becomes intimate rather quickly but again it is written so well and flows with the story so seamlessly that it just works. And boy do they ever work well together! I sometimes skip over sex scenes and there are many reasons that I do, but these two together were perfection and just the right amount of sexy to make me wonder if the temperature in the room had gone up.
Anderson is the person that started off the story and I loved him from the very first moment. I love everything about him. He is a thoughtful, loving, smart and fun character. That he too is willing to take a shot at the big L when things in his past haven't been perfect in a completely different way than Ted made me very happy. That this character was able to navigate this budding romance into a relationship in an adult manner was like the cherry on top of the sundae for me.
The secondary characters were amazing I loved some of them instantly I disliked some of them instantly and I even changed my mind about how I felt about one or two of them. They MADE this story what it is, in my opinion. Oh, that religion thing? It was an important part of the story but done in a very nice way and it really hits home that heaven can strike at any time. I enjoyed this story immensely.
The narration was simply amazing! I love Vance Bastian's voice, the way he emotes, the different characters, it was all perfection. Some narrators take their time and put their all into the stories they narrate and Vance is one of those narrators. I appreciate it when they really get into the characters, it makes the stories that much better for me.
December 26, 2017
Excellent read! This book was really, really great. It was so well written and emotional too. I loved the chemistry of the MC's Anderson and Ted. I enjoyed their journey together as well as their new beginning in life as partners. They were sweet, gentle, sexy, sensual and so loving with each other. Their relationship moved with the speed that only love can navigate. Simply beautiful! The character and heart of Josiah was so beautiful and kind. His relationship with his brother James was refreshing, loving and protective, just as brothers should be. The character of Jeff (Dad) seemed all too familiar...unfortunately. He was a sad, broken, angry, violent, ashamed human being, living with a truth and unknown secret (to many). Truly great read and the author has done an excellent job of bringing this story full circle. Well done F.E. Feeley Jr.
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August 15, 2017Review will be out 8/21
July 31, 2018
Awesome story
Such a well written and developed book. Each character was someone I would like to know. I was recommended this book by an author that I greatly admire and respect. It was everything she led me to believe it would be.
Such a well written and developed book. Each character was someone I would like to know. I was recommended this book by an author that I greatly admire and respect. It was everything she led me to believe it would be.
September 7, 2017
I was scared to read this one at first. The striking image on the front cover hinted at a plot concerning wild weather, but I could have been wrong. It could have been an allegory for the chaos that religious fervour can wreak on innocent lives. What if I was disappointed?
Turns out, it is both, and I wasn’t disappointed. First off, it is books like this one that make me love my job. After an easy-going start, the author draws the reader into the lives of Ted and Anderson, before focussing on the aftermath of a homophobic attack that has totally unexpected results. Both parts of the book are cleverly interwoven, yet easing towards an inevitable and dramatic climax.
As an inveterate storm-watcher, I was waiting for the tornado to hove into view, and it does, but I’m not saying when. Everything I was expecting to happen, didn’t happen. I really hoped the author wouldn’t succumb to the normal romantic tropes, and he doesn’t. I was expecting a book full of rage against the religious machine, but the outcome is more one of forgiveness.
This is such an elegant book. The sex scenes are beautifully choreographed, the progress of Ted and Anderson’s relationship feels totally real. Yes, love does happen at first sight. Then the reader gets sucked in by the secondary characters, the most surprising of which was the fire and brimstone preacher and his son. Again, expectations confounded at every turn.
In fact, this book IS like a tornado, throwing the reader into a spin. I loved that the ending made me cry. That is what books are supposed to do. Entertain you, anger you, make you feel. This book has all the feels, and much, much more. A masterclass in how to craft an MM romance, and support it with a plot that is so much more. A strong contender for my Book Of The Year.
Turns out, it is both, and I wasn’t disappointed. First off, it is books like this one that make me love my job. After an easy-going start, the author draws the reader into the lives of Ted and Anderson, before focussing on the aftermath of a homophobic attack that has totally unexpected results. Both parts of the book are cleverly interwoven, yet easing towards an inevitable and dramatic climax.
As an inveterate storm-watcher, I was waiting for the tornado to hove into view, and it does, but I’m not saying when. Everything I was expecting to happen, didn’t happen. I really hoped the author wouldn’t succumb to the normal romantic tropes, and he doesn’t. I was expecting a book full of rage against the religious machine, but the outcome is more one of forgiveness.
This is such an elegant book. The sex scenes are beautifully choreographed, the progress of Ted and Anderson’s relationship feels totally real. Yes, love does happen at first sight. Then the reader gets sucked in by the secondary characters, the most surprising of which was the fire and brimstone preacher and his son. Again, expectations confounded at every turn.
In fact, this book IS like a tornado, throwing the reader into a spin. I loved that the ending made me cry. That is what books are supposed to do. Entertain you, anger you, make you feel. This book has all the feels, and much, much more. A masterclass in how to craft an MM romance, and support it with a plot that is so much more. A strong contender for my Book Of The Year.
October 10, 2017
Anderson Taylor kommt aus einem sehr reichen Elternhaus und geht ganz in seiner Arbeit als Herzchirurg auf. Menschliche Dramen sind ihm dabei nicht fremd und auch auf der persönlichen Ebene verläuft sein Leben nicht immer ohne Drama und Spannungen. Erfahrungen haben ihn vorsichtig werden lassen und oft genug wurde er schon enttäuscht. Bei seiner Großmutter, zu der er eine sehr enge Bindung hat, lernt er den Künstler Ted Armstrong kennen.
Auch Ted hat eine Vergangenheit und versucht diese hinter sich zu lassen. Mit seiner Arbeit hat er Erfolg und kann sich ein komfortables, einfaches Leben leisten. Er ist zufrieden mit seiner Katze und seinem kleinen Haus; seiner Privatsphäre. Doch dann stolpert der Enkel einer Kundin in sein Leben und Ted wagt es zögerlich sein verletzliches Herz wieder zu öffnen.
Diese Geschichte verläuft so ganz anders als ich es mir erwartet hatte. Der Klappentext lässt ja schon viel Drama und böses Blut vermuten. Das gibt es auch, aber der Autor geht damit sehr wohldosiert und sensibel um. Seine Helden sind sehr menschlich, unsicher, einsam und zögerlich. Aber auch voller Hoffnung und ja, auch irgendwie mutig. Trotz ihrer Erfahrungen lassen sie sich aufeinander ein und wagen einen Neuanfang.
Neben Ted und Anderson gibt es auch noch ein paar Nebenfiguren, deren Weg sich immer wieder mit dem Paar kreuzt. Am Ende führt Feeley dann all seine Erzählstränge zu einem Ganzen zusammen. Das ist ihm an sich ganz gut gelungen, auch wenn ich mir gegen Ende hin etwas mehr Tiefe und Erklärungen bezüglich der Nebendarsteller gewünscht hätte.
Trotzdem konnte die Geschichte fesseln, berühren und auch bei einigen Stelle zu Tränen rühren. Manche Wendung kam unerwartet, wurde aber dann doch sehr logisch und einfühlsam aufgelöst und erklärt. Eine nicht immer einfache Kost, aber sehr lesenswert.
Auch Ted hat eine Vergangenheit und versucht diese hinter sich zu lassen. Mit seiner Arbeit hat er Erfolg und kann sich ein komfortables, einfaches Leben leisten. Er ist zufrieden mit seiner Katze und seinem kleinen Haus; seiner Privatsphäre. Doch dann stolpert der Enkel einer Kundin in sein Leben und Ted wagt es zögerlich sein verletzliches Herz wieder zu öffnen.
Diese Geschichte verläuft so ganz anders als ich es mir erwartet hatte. Der Klappentext lässt ja schon viel Drama und böses Blut vermuten. Das gibt es auch, aber der Autor geht damit sehr wohldosiert und sensibel um. Seine Helden sind sehr menschlich, unsicher, einsam und zögerlich. Aber auch voller Hoffnung und ja, auch irgendwie mutig. Trotz ihrer Erfahrungen lassen sie sich aufeinander ein und wagen einen Neuanfang.
Neben Ted und Anderson gibt es auch noch ein paar Nebenfiguren, deren Weg sich immer wieder mit dem Paar kreuzt. Am Ende führt Feeley dann all seine Erzählstränge zu einem Ganzen zusammen. Das ist ihm an sich ganz gut gelungen, auch wenn ich mir gegen Ende hin etwas mehr Tiefe und Erklärungen bezüglich der Nebendarsteller gewünscht hätte.
Trotzdem konnte die Geschichte fesseln, berühren und auch bei einigen Stelle zu Tränen rühren. Manche Wendung kam unerwartet, wurde aber dann doch sehr logisch und einfühlsam aufgelöst und erklärt. Eine nicht immer einfache Kost, aber sehr lesenswert.
March 20, 2018
3.5 stars. Points off for numerous copyediting flaws and wishful-thinking redemption arc for an abuser. Points added for beautiful moments of tenderness and emotional openness between men, both gay and straight. Some reviewers have criticized the shift in focus to other characters in the second half, but I liked that he widened the lens beyond the two romantic leads, to show them embedded in a wholesome community of family and friends. It's also a nice change to read about gay life in the Midwest instead of the usual coastal metropolitan settings.
October 21, 2017
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2017/10/21/review-when-heaven-strikes-by-f-e-feeley-jr/
Ted Armstrong is an eccentric, solitary artist. He lives alone with his paintings and his cat, he’s also the survivor of an abusive childhood, and since then he’s cut himself off from the world.
Anderson Taylor is a cardiac surgeon, he grew up in a wealthy family, and even if his parents weren’t very supportive at first when he came out, he could have counted on the unconditional love of his grandmother Eleanor.
Josiah is 18 years old and lives with his parents. His dad is the pastor of their congregations. As a man of religion, Pastor Jeff is a homophobic bigot who raised his sons with fear and abuse. He’s a bully, and Josiah tries to discern the wrong from the right when he comes to his father belief.
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
It was a beautiful book full of feelings. I loved every word of this book.
Don’t try to search for something incredible, or a great love story full of angst and all, it’s not the case here.
Here, we’re the privileged witnesses of a slice of lives.
Lives of Anderson and Ted, how they met, how they try to overcome their fears and pasts and give to each other a real chance.
Lives of Josiah, Jeff and James. How secrets, shames and misunderstanding can ruin a family, can ruin love between a father and his sons.
It was the first book I’ve read by F.E Feeley Jr, and I can tell you, the guy slapped me in my face (in a good way).
The story was beautiful, sweet, funny sometimes and put a smile on my face during all my reading. The plot was simple, just people at a crossroad of their lives and how the encounters that they have can change their lives.
Like I said, something trivial. You know sometimes, you watch a movie, or read a book and you’re completely hooked on it. And when you think about it, you’re realistic, nothing original, but there’s something that makes this particular movie or book very good.
That’s the case here, the story and the plot aren’t something unique like The Lord of the Rings or Star Wars, But it’s how it’s written that makes all the difference.
The writing was fluid, simple, light but the words were full of meaning and feelings.
I can only recommend you to read (see) this book (frame), and the story (picture) inside and share a slice of Ted and Anderson’s lives.
5 OptimuMM’s for the artist and his doctor
****I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book******
https://optimumm.blog/2017/10/21/review-when-heaven-strikes-by-f-e-feeley-jr/
Ted Armstrong is an eccentric, solitary artist. He lives alone with his paintings and his cat, he’s also the survivor of an abusive childhood, and since then he’s cut himself off from the world.
Anderson Taylor is a cardiac surgeon, he grew up in a wealthy family, and even if his parents weren’t very supportive at first when he came out, he could have counted on the unconditional love of his grandmother Eleanor.
Josiah is 18 years old and lives with his parents. His dad is the pastor of their congregations. As a man of religion, Pastor Jeff is a homophobic bigot who raised his sons with fear and abuse. He’s a bully, and Josiah tries to discern the wrong from the right when he comes to his father belief.
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
It was a beautiful book full of feelings. I loved every word of this book.
Don’t try to search for something incredible, or a great love story full of angst and all, it’s not the case here.
Here, we’re the privileged witnesses of a slice of lives.
Lives of Anderson and Ted, how they met, how they try to overcome their fears and pasts and give to each other a real chance.
Lives of Josiah, Jeff and James. How secrets, shames and misunderstanding can ruin a family, can ruin love between a father and his sons.
It was the first book I’ve read by F.E Feeley Jr, and I can tell you, the guy slapped me in my face (in a good way).
The story was beautiful, sweet, funny sometimes and put a smile on my face during all my reading. The plot was simple, just people at a crossroad of their lives and how the encounters that they have can change their lives.
Like I said, something trivial. You know sometimes, you watch a movie, or read a book and you’re completely hooked on it. And when you think about it, you’re realistic, nothing original, but there’s something that makes this particular movie or book very good.
That’s the case here, the story and the plot aren’t something unique like The Lord of the Rings or Star Wars, But it’s how it’s written that makes all the difference.
The writing was fluid, simple, light but the words were full of meaning and feelings.
I can only recommend you to read (see) this book (frame), and the story (picture) inside and share a slice of Ted and Anderson’s lives.
5 OptimuMM’s for the artist and his doctor
****I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book******
July 25, 2017
“Love is like the wild wind” and the weaving of loves and lives in When Heaven Strikes is just as wild.
Ted is an artist, commissioned to do a painting for one of the wealthy women in town. When he goes to her home to find out what she would like for him to paint, he meets the woman’s grandson, Anderson. Like the ripple from the wings of a butterfly, this chance meeting changes everyone’s lives.
Ted is from an abusive background and is wanting to trust but holds back until Anderson coaxes him out of the protective shell he’s wrapped himself in. Anderson, a surgeon, has had bad relationships and is also a bit gun-shy. Swirling like the winds around them are James and Josiah, whose parents are involved in a cult-like church and whose father attacks Ted for being gay.
As the tension builds, so do the storm clouds, and both Ted and Anderson will have to weather that storm to find the love they want.
Ok, I read a lot in bed. It’s the way I settle down for the night. But, I always know the book will get a 5 star rating when I cannot put the book down to go to sleep. I keep thinking “one more chapter” and soon it’s 3:30 a.m. and I’m hitting the last page.
That happened with When Heaven Strikes. Frederick Feeley weaves the storms into the story and they carry you from the first chapter to the end so flawlessly that there’s hardly enough room to breathe. Ted is wonderfully crafted, Anderson is as well. I felt sorry for James and Josiah and their family situation was one I’m fairly familiar with, having had friends who went through something like that.
The climax of the book is the big tornado blowing into their lives and the changes it is bound to make. Having grown up in Tornado Alley and having a husband who used to chase for his university, I know how those storms happen and I was very impressed with how the author managed to make the facts and science of the storm the narrative for the upending of lives in the book. Pure genius.
Oh, and the author also writes poetry and includes some in the book, which was a treat.
Wonderfully and passionately written, I cannot recommend this one enough. Read it, and be prepared to soar with the winds of love.
Charlayne Elizabeth Denney
Member of the Paranormal Romance Review Team
Ted is an artist, commissioned to do a painting for one of the wealthy women in town. When he goes to her home to find out what she would like for him to paint, he meets the woman’s grandson, Anderson. Like the ripple from the wings of a butterfly, this chance meeting changes everyone’s lives.
Ted is from an abusive background and is wanting to trust but holds back until Anderson coaxes him out of the protective shell he’s wrapped himself in. Anderson, a surgeon, has had bad relationships and is also a bit gun-shy. Swirling like the winds around them are James and Josiah, whose parents are involved in a cult-like church and whose father attacks Ted for being gay.
As the tension builds, so do the storm clouds, and both Ted and Anderson will have to weather that storm to find the love they want.
Ok, I read a lot in bed. It’s the way I settle down for the night. But, I always know the book will get a 5 star rating when I cannot put the book down to go to sleep. I keep thinking “one more chapter” and soon it’s 3:30 a.m. and I’m hitting the last page.
That happened with When Heaven Strikes. Frederick Feeley weaves the storms into the story and they carry you from the first chapter to the end so flawlessly that there’s hardly enough room to breathe. Ted is wonderfully crafted, Anderson is as well. I felt sorry for James and Josiah and their family situation was one I’m fairly familiar with, having had friends who went through something like that.
The climax of the book is the big tornado blowing into their lives and the changes it is bound to make. Having grown up in Tornado Alley and having a husband who used to chase for his university, I know how those storms happen and I was very impressed with how the author managed to make the facts and science of the storm the narrative for the upending of lives in the book. Pure genius.
Oh, and the author also writes poetry and includes some in the book, which was a treat.
Wonderfully and passionately written, I cannot recommend this one enough. Read it, and be prepared to soar with the winds of love.
Charlayne Elizabeth Denney
Member of the Paranormal Romance Review Team
May 27, 2019
4.5 stars- One that sticks with you
When an author who regularly delivers intense, unique stories teams up with a favorite narrator who never disappoints, readers can get the best of both worlds with immersed reading/Whispersync. I took full advantage when reading and listening to When Heaven Strikes, getting lost in the palpable emotion and descriptive scenes and loving how the narrator brought the characters to life.
When Heaven Strikes is a compelling story detailing the ways fates/ coincidences interweave to create different paths and open new doors. Though there is a romance that unfolds in the book, like many of this author's works, Anderson and Ted's love is just one part of the story. That said, I did enjoy their easy connection. Beyond that, I loved how all the characters played a role in developing the story and one another. I also really appreciated the theme of forgiveness that came through, especially as the book resolved.
This author never fails to wow me with his commanding use of imagery- capturing the emotion or visuals of a scene in a way that transports me. This was especially evident in the way he described the tornado the characters had to contend with and the storm's aftermath. If you like powerful books that feature dynamic characters as well as a good romance, I definitely recommend this title; and if you are a fan of audiobooks, don't hesitate to give this a listen.
When an author who regularly delivers intense, unique stories teams up with a favorite narrator who never disappoints, readers can get the best of both worlds with immersed reading/Whispersync. I took full advantage when reading and listening to When Heaven Strikes, getting lost in the palpable emotion and descriptive scenes and loving how the narrator brought the characters to life.
When Heaven Strikes is a compelling story detailing the ways fates/ coincidences interweave to create different paths and open new doors. Though there is a romance that unfolds in the book, like many of this author's works, Anderson and Ted's love is just one part of the story. That said, I did enjoy their easy connection. Beyond that, I loved how all the characters played a role in developing the story and one another. I also really appreciated the theme of forgiveness that came through, especially as the book resolved.
This author never fails to wow me with his commanding use of imagery- capturing the emotion or visuals of a scene in a way that transports me. This was especially evident in the way he described the tornado the characters had to contend with and the storm's aftermath. If you like powerful books that feature dynamic characters as well as a good romance, I definitely recommend this title; and if you are a fan of audiobooks, don't hesitate to give this a listen.
September 20, 2017
The idea that forces of nature (like storms) are a sign from the gods is as old as humanity. We’re tempted to think magically that way even today. But we don’t. We’ve become rational.
Yet how strong is the rational mind? How dead are those old gods? The storm is not just a metaphor in When Heaven Strikes. It’s the monster under the bed. I was in turns horrified, mesmerized, tickled and sucker punched. Frederick’s distinctively and unabashedly male voice is sure to become a great new addition to the gay literature.
Yet how strong is the rational mind? How dead are those old gods? The storm is not just a metaphor in When Heaven Strikes. It’s the monster under the bed. I was in turns horrified, mesmerized, tickled and sucker punched. Frederick’s distinctively and unabashedly male voice is sure to become a great new addition to the gay literature.
January 30, 2022
4-
Libro particolare, diverso dai soliti m/m, qui di intrecciano varie storie ed è diviso in parti. La prima parla dell’incontro di due uomini, a primo acchito mi è sembrato molto veloce, quasi subito i due finiscono a letto, ma poi da una notte le cose si sviluppano e il rapporto diventa più bello e profondo. Nella seconda parte entrano in ballo due fratelli maltrattati e un padre predicatore e violento con un grande segreto. Il tutto incentrato su una natura selvaggia e violenta che sembra indicare la purificazione e la penitenza, i peccati che vengono fatto scontare.
Libro particolare, diverso dai soliti m/m, qui di intrecciano varie storie ed è diviso in parti. La prima parla dell’incontro di due uomini, a primo acchito mi è sembrato molto veloce, quasi subito i due finiscono a letto, ma poi da una notte le cose si sviluppano e il rapporto diventa più bello e profondo. Nella seconda parte entrano in ballo due fratelli maltrattati e un padre predicatore e violento con un grande segreto. Il tutto incentrato su una natura selvaggia e violenta che sembra indicare la purificazione e la penitenza, i peccati che vengono fatto scontare.
December 4, 2019
4 stars.
Ted is an artist who is mostly alone by choice. He makes his living selling his art, and one day he meets Anderson when he meets a client to discuss what she expects from a painting that she has commissioned. Anderson is the patron's grandson, and hasn't had much luck in the relationship department, either.
The two of them hit it off and start seriously seeing each other. Life can change in an instant, and they both know that. The past and the future seems like it might be about to collide.
First of all, there is a romance in the story, but it is not the focus of it. The fact that Ted and Anderson are good together is incidental to the story, which is more about finding who you are and coming to grips with life.
Ted is an artist who is mostly alone by choice. He makes his living selling his art, and one day he meets Anderson when he meets a client to discuss what she expects from a painting that she has commissioned. Anderson is the patron's grandson, and hasn't had much luck in the relationship department, either.
The two of them hit it off and start seriously seeing each other. Life can change in an instant, and they both know that. The past and the future seems like it might be about to collide.
First of all, there is a romance in the story, but it is not the focus of it. The fact that Ted and Anderson are good together is incidental to the story, which is more about finding who you are and coming to grips with life.
Want to read
December 13, 2017Free on Amazon 12/13/2017
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07452W7HK
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07452W7HK
January 31, 2022
- Voto 3,5 -
Recensione per il blog Opinioni Librose: https://www.opinionilibrose.it/2022/0...
Recensione per il blog Opinioni Librose: https://www.opinionilibrose.it/2022/0...
November 26, 2017
Listening to audio.
All of the feels. Got me right in the heart.
And an excellent narrator as well.
All of the feels. Got me right in the heart.
And an excellent narrator as well.
April 29, 2020
I really loved this story. Very interesting characters.
August 6, 2017
4 Stars!
Ted is an artist, making do with his work and trying to get over all he went through as a little kid growing up with an overly religious father. Anderson is a surgeon who up until then had basically buried himself in his job. When Ted receives a commission for a painting from a local socialité, Eleanor, the last thing he expects is meeting Eleanor's grandson, Anderson, and be as attracted to him as Anderson seems to be. Not sure if he should but unable to resist temptation, he finally calls Anderson and they hook up. It was supposed to be one night only, but they don't seem able to stay apart. However, there are many things that could still get in the way of their budding relationship.
I liked Ted and Anderson a lot. They were both great guys, friendly and loyal and sweet and they seemed to fit well together. Their relationship evolved a little too quickly for my taste, and while the physical aspect of it was hot and they had great chemistry, I would've liked for them to at least talk about some things like safe sex, before going without, especially considering Anderson was a surgeon.
I loved Eleanor, she was just amazing and a delight to read about. I wasn't too fond of Anderson's parents at first, but despite how they handled his coming out, they were making an effort to make up for it.
I have mentioned it before, but I'm not too fond of stories with multiple POVs. I didn't mind it much in this one, especially since it explained a lot concerning the preacher mentioned in the blurb, even if there's a scene with him and his lover that I wouldn't have minded skipping that. Anyway, no matter his reasons for being abusive to his sons, I truly don't think he deserved a HEA after everything he did. Sorry, but just apologizing for it after all he did and 'embracing' his sexuality, isn't enough for me.
Overall, the book was a pretty good read. It was angsty, sweet, sexy and well-written. F.E. Feeley Jr. is undeniably a great author and even if there were a few things that didn't quite work for me, I have no problem recommending this book to others.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Ted is an artist, making do with his work and trying to get over all he went through as a little kid growing up with an overly religious father. Anderson is a surgeon who up until then had basically buried himself in his job. When Ted receives a commission for a painting from a local socialité, Eleanor, the last thing he expects is meeting Eleanor's grandson, Anderson, and be as attracted to him as Anderson seems to be. Not sure if he should but unable to resist temptation, he finally calls Anderson and they hook up. It was supposed to be one night only, but they don't seem able to stay apart. However, there are many things that could still get in the way of their budding relationship.
I liked Ted and Anderson a lot. They were both great guys, friendly and loyal and sweet and they seemed to fit well together. Their relationship evolved a little too quickly for my taste, and while the physical aspect of it was hot and they had great chemistry, I would've liked for them to at least talk about some things like safe sex, before going without, especially considering Anderson was a surgeon.
I loved Eleanor, she was just amazing and a delight to read about. I wasn't too fond of Anderson's parents at first, but despite how they handled his coming out, they were making an effort to make up for it.
I have mentioned it before, but I'm not too fond of stories with multiple POVs. I didn't mind it much in this one, especially since it explained a lot concerning the preacher mentioned in the blurb, even if there's a scene with him and his lover that I wouldn't have minded skipping that. Anyway, no matter his reasons for being abusive to his sons, I truly don't think he deserved a HEA after everything he did. Sorry, but just apologizing for it after all he did and 'embracing' his sexuality, isn't enough for me.
Overall, the book was a pretty good read. It was angsty, sweet, sexy and well-written. F.E. Feeley Jr. is undeniably a great author and even if there were a few things that didn't quite work for me, I have no problem recommending this book to others.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 22, 2017
I can't even begin to express the feelings this book put me through and some healing it gave me from my past.
The storms that collide in this book, both figuratively and literally, are so beautifully written and intertwined. F.E. Feeley Jr has my highest praise with this.
You can see my full review here: http://christinasbookshelf.net/2017/0...
The storms that collide in this book, both figuratively and literally, are so beautifully written and intertwined. F.E. Feeley Jr has my highest praise with this.
You can see my full review here: http://christinasbookshelf.net/2017/0...
February 3, 2022
✔ Letto! Siamo nell’Iowa, in una piccola città dove quasi tutti si conoscono e le vita si intrecciano. Dove il tempo può cambiare da un momento all'altro e le allerte tornado, è un continuo. Qui ci abita persone apparentemente normali come Ted Armstrong un artista, un'anima tormentata ma sincera e Jeff Stiles, un pastore della chiesa Battista, fervoroso, bigotto, violento, razzista, estremista.
Si lo so, non è lui il secondo proganista, ma siete sicuri che non lo sia?
Ted e Jeff sono frutti dalla stessa infanzia terrorizzata dal fanatismo religioso. Sono la somma degli abusi subiti durante la loro crescita. E, in questo libro vediamo come lo estremismo religioso può danificarem una persona e quelle relazionate a lui indirettamente o non.
Il libro è suddiviso in due parti e con POV diverse per farci capire le due faccia della storia, una genialata a proposito.
Ted è riuscito a fuggire a 16anni. Scappare dai suoi genitori aguzzini, scappare lontano dal fanatismo religioso, è riuscito a farsi una vita e ogni giorno in cui si alza lotta per essere sé stesso, lotta per curare la sua anima, lotta per guarire e poter un giorno trovare l'amore della sua vita. Perché è conscio che se lo merita, che ha il suo posto nem mondo come tutti gli altri. Anche se lo spettro dei genitori sono sempre li e ricordarlo da dove arriva. Ha l'anima di un artista e i suoi quadri dimostra il quanto questa sia bella.
Già il pastore Jeff Stiles, che lo troveremmo più nella seconda metà del libro, dopo un violento attacco omofobo nei confronti di Ted. Jeff è quello che sfortunatamente esistono ancora di più nel mondo. Persone che si mettendo una maschera di correttezza e benevolenza in faccia, si nascondono, costruiscono una vita fasulla, portata avanti su inganni, bugie, muri fatti di odio e cimento e vanno oltre, sposandosi nel perfetto matrimonio etero e concependo altre vittime dell'inganno come Josiah, un'anima sofferente che Ted l'ha riconosciuta nel primo sguardo e James che è riuscito a scappare dal girone dell'inferno in tempo per salvarsi ed essere sé stesso.
La furia del cielo che c'entra? C'entra per ricordarci che non siamo eterni, che il nostro passaggio su questa terra è effimero, corto, fragile. Serve per ricordarci sempre che esiste qualcosa di più grande dell'odio, dell'ignoranza del fanatismo. Che tempesta passata c'è sempre un domani, per ricostruire.
È bisogno rompere il cerchio per trovate Anderson. Per trovate Gary. Per trovare la propria passione nel lavoro, nella banda musicale, trovare la propria strada in una religione inclusiva. Per trovare l'amore. E persone buone. Si, perché ci sono.
Per me F.E Felley scrive su problemi attuali, veri, forte, crudeli con l'anima del poeta come ho già visto presenti in altri libri precedentemente tradotti in italiano e mi piace tantissimo, quindi...
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
"... 𝘐𝘭 𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘪𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘳𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘻𝘦, 𝘮𝘢 𝘭’𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘷𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢 – 𝘤𝘪ò 𝘤𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘨𝘯𝘢 𝘥𝘪 𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘵𝘢 – 𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘭’𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦."
Si lo so, non è lui il secondo proganista, ma siete sicuri che non lo sia?
Ted e Jeff sono frutti dalla stessa infanzia terrorizzata dal fanatismo religioso. Sono la somma degli abusi subiti durante la loro crescita. E, in questo libro vediamo come lo estremismo religioso può danificarem una persona e quelle relazionate a lui indirettamente o non.
Il libro è suddiviso in due parti e con POV diverse per farci capire le due faccia della storia, una genialata a proposito.
Ted è riuscito a fuggire a 16anni. Scappare dai suoi genitori aguzzini, scappare lontano dal fanatismo religioso, è riuscito a farsi una vita e ogni giorno in cui si alza lotta per essere sé stesso, lotta per curare la sua anima, lotta per guarire e poter un giorno trovare l'amore della sua vita. Perché è conscio che se lo merita, che ha il suo posto nem mondo come tutti gli altri. Anche se lo spettro dei genitori sono sempre li e ricordarlo da dove arriva. Ha l'anima di un artista e i suoi quadri dimostra il quanto questa sia bella.
Già il pastore Jeff Stiles, che lo troveremmo più nella seconda metà del libro, dopo un violento attacco omofobo nei confronti di Ted. Jeff è quello che sfortunatamente esistono ancora di più nel mondo. Persone che si mettendo una maschera di correttezza e benevolenza in faccia, si nascondono, costruiscono una vita fasulla, portata avanti su inganni, bugie, muri fatti di odio e cimento e vanno oltre, sposandosi nel perfetto matrimonio etero e concependo altre vittime dell'inganno come Josiah, un'anima sofferente che Ted l'ha riconosciuta nel primo sguardo e James che è riuscito a scappare dal girone dell'inferno in tempo per salvarsi ed essere sé stesso.
La furia del cielo che c'entra? C'entra per ricordarci che non siamo eterni, che il nostro passaggio su questa terra è effimero, corto, fragile. Serve per ricordarci sempre che esiste qualcosa di più grande dell'odio, dell'ignoranza del fanatismo. Che tempesta passata c'è sempre un domani, per ricostruire.
È bisogno rompere il cerchio per trovate Anderson. Per trovate Gary. Per trovare la propria passione nel lavoro, nella banda musicale, trovare la propria strada in una religione inclusiva. Per trovare l'amore. E persone buone. Si, perché ci sono.
Per me F.E Felley scrive su problemi attuali, veri, forte, crudeli con l'anima del poeta come ho già visto presenti in altri libri precedentemente tradotti in italiano e mi piace tantissimo, quindi...
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
"... 𝘐𝘭 𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘪𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘳𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘻𝘦, 𝘮𝘢 𝘭’𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘷𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢 – 𝘤𝘪ò 𝘤𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘨𝘯𝘢 𝘥𝘪 𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘵𝘢 – 𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘭’𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦."
September 4, 2017
(Originally reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews.)
When this book came in for review, I was quick to grab it before I even knew what it was about, because I really enjoyed a previous book by the author that I read and reviewed back in January. From that previous book, I knew that I liked the author’s writing style and knew I’d enjoy this new story.
When Heaven Strikes is the story of two men, Ted Armstrong and Anderson Taylor, but it is also the tale of some other people along the way who are critical to the story. Let me start with the two MCs.
Ted is the product of religious child abuse. He grew up being told that ‘gay’ was wrong and he was going to Hell. It has warped the man and diminished his feelings of self-worth. He is a gifted artist, but doubts himself. When he meets a woman named Eleanor, things will change.
Anderson is the product of a well to do family and has an awesome grandmother named Eleanor. There was a section early in the book involving a tornado, and Eleanor spoke a sentence to her grandson which resonated with me and almost mirrored exactly a sentence that my own grandmother’s very elderly aunt spoke to me as a child. Here is Eleanor’s quote:
“You can be anyone you want to be and do anything you want to do, Anderson. Not everything is a phase. Remember that.”
It really hit me personally, because except for the ‘phase’ part, it was almost the same sentence. It was like I was a kid again, sitting with that elderly woman who knew more about me than I knew about me at the time, if you get what I’m saying. In the book, you knew as a reader that Eleanor had already figured out something important about her grandson. The book moves on, and at the time of the majority of the story Anderson has grown up and is now a well respected cardiac surgeon. But he is all alone and a workaholic.
When the two men are brought together, the story really gets rolling. One word of warning… when you get to the middle of the book somewhere, all of a sudden the story switches to some side characters the reader met earlier in the book. I remember thinking ‘what the heck?’ when I flipped the page on my Kindle. Rest assured it all made sense as the book built to its big ending. All the characters made sense, and the comparison of the character Jeffrey with Ted’s family background really helped develop another character who came to be important in that half of the book. I know I’m being vague, but I really enjoyed the story development, and don’t want to give too much away. I personally hate reviews that are book reports, so detailed that you don’t need to read the book! So I’m not saying another word about the story!
I enjoyed the read and will look forward to future stories from the author. I’ll end by saying that I highly recommend this book. It was well written, and it brought back a pleasant memory from my own past.
When this book came in for review, I was quick to grab it before I even knew what it was about, because I really enjoyed a previous book by the author that I read and reviewed back in January. From that previous book, I knew that I liked the author’s writing style and knew I’d enjoy this new story.
When Heaven Strikes is the story of two men, Ted Armstrong and Anderson Taylor, but it is also the tale of some other people along the way who are critical to the story. Let me start with the two MCs.
Ted is the product of religious child abuse. He grew up being told that ‘gay’ was wrong and he was going to Hell. It has warped the man and diminished his feelings of self-worth. He is a gifted artist, but doubts himself. When he meets a woman named Eleanor, things will change.
Anderson is the product of a well to do family and has an awesome grandmother named Eleanor. There was a section early in the book involving a tornado, and Eleanor spoke a sentence to her grandson which resonated with me and almost mirrored exactly a sentence that my own grandmother’s very elderly aunt spoke to me as a child. Here is Eleanor’s quote:
“You can be anyone you want to be and do anything you want to do, Anderson. Not everything is a phase. Remember that.”
It really hit me personally, because except for the ‘phase’ part, it was almost the same sentence. It was like I was a kid again, sitting with that elderly woman who knew more about me than I knew about me at the time, if you get what I’m saying. In the book, you knew as a reader that Eleanor had already figured out something important about her grandson. The book moves on, and at the time of the majority of the story Anderson has grown up and is now a well respected cardiac surgeon. But he is all alone and a workaholic.
When the two men are brought together, the story really gets rolling. One word of warning… when you get to the middle of the book somewhere, all of a sudden the story switches to some side characters the reader met earlier in the book. I remember thinking ‘what the heck?’ when I flipped the page on my Kindle. Rest assured it all made sense as the book built to its big ending. All the characters made sense, and the comparison of the character Jeffrey with Ted’s family background really helped develop another character who came to be important in that half of the book. I know I’m being vague, but I really enjoyed the story development, and don’t want to give too much away. I personally hate reviews that are book reports, so detailed that you don’t need to read the book! So I’m not saying another word about the story!
I enjoyed the read and will look forward to future stories from the author. I’ll end by saying that I highly recommend this book. It was well written, and it brought back a pleasant memory from my own past.
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