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The Light They Tried To Kill: A Christian Crime Mystery Nove

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Homosexuality is increasingly becoming more acceptable and visible in our culture, moving quickly from acceptance to normalization and celebration. This is the reality in today’s world. It would be dishonest and disingenuous not to address such a topic in a novel and therefore T.K. Chapin has chosen to write on this subject in his latest book, “In His Love.”

Reporter John Quinby was tasked with interviewing the mother of the recently deceased homosexual young man who was found at Diamond Lake. He expected a bigoted and hate-filled woman who was filled with anger towards her son. What he found instead would change his life forever.

It’s not through the anger of Christians that people change, it’s through God’s kindness.

From the best-selling author of the Diamond Lake series comes a story of inspiration, mystery, and romance that will keep readers turning the page. T.K. dives head first into the controversial topic of homosexuality while at the same time weaving together the truth and beauty of God’s enduring love for His creation.

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 21, 2017

99 people are currently reading
34 people want to read

About the author

T.K. Chapin

108 books245 followers
T.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 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Bhriv.
604 reviews27 followers
August 22, 2017
In His Love, written by T.K. Chapin, is another true-to-Chapin kind of book.
Chapin isn't afraid to tackle true to life topics and this book fits right in there. Although, when I heard this book was about homosexuality, I was leery. I truly like Chapin’s style, but I doubted. Shock! Chapin said he used Rom 2:4 as his guideline for the book and did it in such a way that I truly don’t think someone pro-homosexuality would be offended, BUT he was also able to show how God views homosexuality without apology.
This book is truly inspirational fiction at its best as it shows a way in which to handle a topic which most Christians don’t handle nor do they handle it with tact. It’s not in your face in any way, but it’s a read that will stick with you as you live life.
The storyline…a mystery. We’re back at Diamond Lake (which I love Chapin’s Diamond Lake series—a must read) and there’s a death. A reporter has to find out the truth and it’s not just about the death!
I definitely recommend this book. Not preachy, but very inspirational!
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,173 reviews12 followers
August 22, 2017
The Bible says that a soft word turns away wrath. The author shares a story that demonstrates the difference between using soft words and using harsh words as he deals with sensitive subject matter. We are living in a time when we need more soft words and fewer attacks on others who hold different opinions from our own. Although this book deals with a specific area of life where there is so much contention in our world, the truth is applicable in many areas of our lives. No matter your viewpoint on alternative lifestyles, I encourage you to read with your heart attuned to what God has to say. As one of the characters says, when we try to argue the Bible, we are arguing with God and He is always right. I hope the story gives you a different viewpoint on a true Christian response versus a religious response, or a warped “Christian” response as is so often portrayed by the media. I received an advance copy of the book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
21 reviews
August 23, 2017
Wow! What an amazing read. John's story is so powerful to read. My emotions were all over the place. I could feel the pain and anger as well as the love and grace. This wonderful story looks at some of the biggest issues in our world today. It's hard to read because it is so true. The power of Christ is seen through this book. The power of the world is too. The Kate's, Jena's, Serenah's, and Charlie's of this world are one of the many ways I know God is alive and well. He loves us ALL! No matter where or how life happens...God is with us.
Profile Image for Charlene Hios.
184 reviews5 followers
February 25, 2021
True to Life

The topic of a Christian parent with a gay identifying child is what captured my attention to this book. I mostly read non fiction of all sub topics of same gender attractions. As both a former lesbian identifying daughter and one who has a heart for Christian parents with prodigals this book brought me into a different realm.

The author caught the nuances of the misperceptions of the secular world passing judgment on Christians regarding homosexuality. He also identified the irony of the tolerance demanded by gay activists yet these same activist give no tolerance in their constant attacks on Christians.

Good to see this author shows the loving kindness most Christians show others. If anyone you know is impacted by homosexuality, and basically everyone is, I believe this work of fiction is much more than fiction therefore a must read for all.
Profile Image for Sally.
344 reviews
August 27, 2017
Disclaimer: I received this eBook from the author, T.K. Chapin for free to read and review. I was not required to give a favorable review only an honest review, nor was I compensated for my review. All thoughts and comments in this review are my own.

John Quinby, a reporter for The Globe, was on assignment to write a story about the suicide-death of a gay young man, Billy Wilcox. He was to spin his story so that Billy’s Fundamentalist Christian mother would be portrayed as an unloving, uncaring mother who inadvertently caused her son to commit suicide because of her Christian beliefs. Instead…through Jena Wilcox, John found what true Christian love is and that Jena had suspicions her son was murdered…he did not commit suicide. After his interview with Jena…John also had doubts that Billy’s death was suicide. In his research he found that Billy was once an avid spokesperson for the LGBT community, but near the end of his life, he had begun to question the hole in his heart that nothing could fill. He found the answer to filling that hole at the Inn at The Lake and was now on a mission to share this new-found hole-filling love and information with his LGBT followers…someone upset enough to make sure Billy’s video’s never aired.


Wow! Controversial subject for sure, however T.K. Chapin shares the true word of God regarding this subject in this book. He has woven scripture into a Christian fiction mystery novel that will reach deep into your soul with thought-provoking events both from the stand-point of the LGBT community and also from the Christian community. He shows that both sides are at fault in the blame game and especially shows Christians that no matter the life-style you are to love the person, but not the sin and as Christians we are compelled to show love and compassion, not hate because God does not condone hate or confusion on any level. I love that he shared “you can’t cherry-pick” which part of the Bible you are going to believe or not believe just because it doesn’t fit your lifestyle. You either believe it all…or not at all. Simply put…sin is sin!

After reading this book, Mr. Chapin reaffirmed my belief...dislike the sin, but love the person with all your heart.

Thank you, Mr. Chapin for another great book. I hope everyone who reads this book will find in it the love and compassion you are trying to convey…and that two wrongs…don’t make it right. My opinion is…If we as Christians show hate we are just as guilty.


Profile Image for Heather Belleguelle.
189 reviews10 followers
October 14, 2017
I feel that I need to preface this review with the statement that I sometimes struggle to relate to, and form a considered opinion, when I’m reading a contemporary US inspirational novel. It would seem to me that Christians and church culture in the US are quite different from the UK, and that the way those Christians and the church perceive the rest of society, and indeed the way the rest of society perceives them, is also very different. Due to this, I find it hard to know if what I’m reading is actually a realistic scenario that could happen in America or not. I very much found this the case with this book, making it hard for me to decide what to think about certain elements of the story.

In my opinion, I felt that it was courageous of Mr Chapin to tackle the rather thorny subject of homosexuality in a Christian novel. However, I did feel that he also put too many other story elements in the book, meaning that he wasn’t really able to deal with any of them in any depth. As well as the topic of homosexuality, viewed through a number of different people’s lenses, there was the subject of Billy, the young man’s death. On top of that there was journalist John’s own journey which had a lot of aspects including faith, family, and romance. For me, I felt that due to so many story threads, the writing ended up being shallow, some of the characters’ behaviour was unrealistic, and none of the elements or topics introduced could be explored properly or to any reasonable depth. As I said earlier, I found it hard to believe that some of the scenarios could be realistic, but this could be due to the book being set in America, so I can't really give an informed opinion about them.

However, as I also said earlier, I do applaud the author for bringing what can be a contentious subject into the arena of inspirational fiction. I hope that reading this book will help Christians and non-Christians alike to think through this important topic in a considered and loving manner.

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Pam Graber.
1,127 reviews39 followers
October 6, 2017
When John Quinby's boss at The Globe sends him out on assignment, he's told to tie the suicide of a local gay young man to the lack of acceptance and love he received from his Christian mother. Having written similarly slanted stories before, John goes into the interview with both barrels aimed at Jena Wilcox. He's antagonistic, blunt and disbelieving. Jena's gentle answers convince him that not all Christians picket gay funerals and not every Christian is out to pass judgement on the evils they see. She believes - and lives- the idea that 'they won't see your God until they first see your love.' She also believes that her son, Billy, did not kill himself.
When John's story doesn't slam all Christians and instead paints a picture of a loving mother grieving the death of her son, John is summarily fired. Since his conscience won't let him lie for the story, he decides to do some investigating. The more he uncovers, the more sure he is that Jena is right and Billy was murdered. Can he prove it without placing a bull's-eye squarely on his own back?
As skewed as our media is these days, this story is way too plausible. It was scary how easily the people behind Billy's death were able to get public opinion on their side by simply crying bigotry. Sadder still that a few Christians make it possible for non-believers to assume that "all" Christians hate gays and are intolerant of those who believe differently from them. How can they see the Good who loves them if they don't first see our love?
Well done, Mr. Chapin! You've made me think about some of my own knee-jerk reactions. If your church is struggling with the LGBT topic like mine is, this book will help you take a look from both sides of the divide. May we all have and give grace.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,306 reviews45 followers
August 24, 2017
When God picks you, you can try to ignore it, or you can turn to Him and be free. The character in this story was fighting everything he came across because he just couldn’t believe what he was hearing.
At first, all John Quinby wanted to do was prove how a kid was pressured into committing suicide because he was a gay. However, in the end, John found out a whole lot more, and his life was changed forever.
This story was at times tough to read. Seeing all the hate and angry words many people feel are justified, just because they think their ways are better.
I was struck by the knowledge that we ALL judge others. No matter what side of the issues we sit on.
Nonetheless, what TK Chapin has done is show how kindness, gentleness, and love can turn anger and wrath around, shedding light to the true source of goodness.
TK also tackled other sin issues we seem to brush off to the side and he does it with a truly loving and gentle way.
I found no offence in any of his words. There were many profound quotes and he didn’t shy away from sharing God’s greatest gift to us.
We all have a hole in our lives that we are striving to fill with so many different things. One quote from the book I really liked was, “The emptiness of that hole can only truly be filled with God.”
Thanks, TK Chapin for being willing to write this book. I hope and pray I will be a more loving and gentle Christians because of this story.
I highly recommend you pick this book up, and read it. It just might change your way of looking at thing.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Julia.
3,074 reviews93 followers
August 26, 2017
In His Love by T.K. Chapin is a marvellous contemporary Christian story that deals with homosexuality and the Christian response. In His Love is neither judgemental nor 'preachy'. It is a realistic read that focuses on a mother's love for her son.
This can be extended out to the love of God for all His children. The novel reveals that there are some bigoted people in the world but true Christians who have the Spirit of God living inside them, see people to love and not labels to hate.
The novel has a mystery to solve. Reporter John, will do anything to uncover the truth. The truth at all times is important. No one should live a lie.
There are many different relationships in the novel. Fractured relationships need to be mended.
We all need firm foundations. Whatever we think of our upbringing, it has made us the person we are today.
We have the hope of heaven because of Jesus' death. Death is not the end, it is merely the end of the beginning. One day we will be reunited with our loved ones.
God has a plan for our lives. He is always working on our behalf, even when we cannot see Him. "He's out there and He's working even when I can't see it." God longs for us all to have a relationship with Him. "I let the part of God inside me... get really quiet." If we have known Him once and wandered away, it is never too late to turn round and return to Him.
I really enjoyed In His Love. T.K. Chapin is not afraid to write about relevant issues that affect lives today, and that raise strong responses.
A wonderful tale about unconditional love. I can highly recommend it.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Sandra.
1,133 reviews47 followers
September 5, 2017
T. K. Chapin is not afraid to speak up, on and about God's word, quoting scriptures as he writes. This book is predominately about 'What happened to Billy' and yet, as the book ended I am still not sure what actually happened to Billy, but I certainly do know that Billy did not commit suicide; however he did leave a legacy behind him that will encourage and convict others for years. The story is captivating and intense as it moves through a newspaper investigation for a story and ends with a police investigation for a death and for other acts of violence and deception. It's a quick read and it will stimulate your mind to think about some of the issues in the story and some of the strange characters.

I did find a bit of the story unbelievable, like Jena leaving Billy's cottage to someone she has only known for a few weeks at the most. The 'set-up' at the hotel didn't sound very realistic to me, and Marissa's and Monica's characters were rather undeveloped. I am not sure what happened to them in the end or how Billy actually died. I am wondering if T.K. plans to do a sequel to this story where we will learn more about Jonathan and the various characters he comes into contact with during his routine investigative story for The Globe about Billy's death, and his complete change of life and life-style because of his investigation.

I was asked to read this story as part of a Launch Team and I thank the author, T. K. Chapin, for giving me the privilege of reading and reviewing his story. His stories are getting better all the time and I also want to thank him for not being afraid to tackle difficult issues. Well done, T.K.!
Profile Image for Parkland Mom.
784 reviews19 followers
August 29, 2017
I heard about this book through a Christian fiction group on Facebook. I checked it out further and downloaded it minutes later. I read it yesterday. I loved this book. It impacted me greatly. I was meant to read this book.

My only negative about the book is that the ending felt rushed and somewhat abrupt. However, the book was so good that I still rated it five stars. It will stay with me and that deserves five stars.

I appreciated that the controversy was handled so well. There was respect and fairness to both Christians and the LGTBQ community. There was no hiding of the mistakes, misconceptions, etc by both. Clearly there are extremists from both that are really blurring the lines and making hypocrisy a two-way street.

There were several sections of the book that I read more than once because they made me stop and think about the insight shown. The chaos of today is the hate and bigotry, but most of us are just regular people who want no part of that.

I recommend this book to anyone and everyone, including our teenagers who are greatly influenced by media. Really speaking, aren't we all?!

I love a book that makes me think, teaches me, and makes me want to do better. This clarified some things for me in how to better handle some conversations. God's love and kindness and grace are always there for us all.

There's so much more that I could say, but my review is long enough. READ. THIS. BOOK.
Profile Image for Marianne Jay.
1,031 reviews16 followers
August 31, 2017
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.

I have 2 family members who are gay. I have 3 friends who are gay. And I don't do well with preachy books.

Mr Chapin's book is different. It's not preachy - it's like the old saying - " You get more bees with honey than you do with sour grapes.

Although I have never read this author's other books - I believe it is part of The Diamond Lake series - but you can read it without having to read the whole series.

I think this is a very very good book. Do I still love my gay relatives? Yes. Do I still love my gay friends? Yes. Do I believe in gay marriage? Yes. Will I stop going to The Gay Pride Parade? No

This book did not change my viewpoint. It taught me tolerance of those who don't believe as I do - and that is powerful.

Profile Image for Heidi .
184 reviews
November 10, 2017
This is my first encounter with T.K. Chapin's books. Set in Spokane Washington, the story centers around the death of a homosexual who is a star in the LGBT community. Mr. Chapin's desire to write stories that take real-life issues is refreshing. Not skirting around the Politically Correct movement and taking a head-on approach to real life brought his story to life. The characters were realistic, and the mystery was well done, where I suspected several people of being the bad guy. I also enjoyed the Christian aspect of the story as it is shown as the love of Christ and God for everyone.

Violence: Mild
Sex: None
Religion: Moderate
Mystery: Well Done

Highly recommend this story. Appropriate for younger readers, and older readers alike.
Profile Image for Ann.
731 reviews22 followers
September 4, 2017
Once again, this author tackles a very current issue and writes a story that is a beautiful picture of God's love and forgiveness. It is also a reminder to the Christian community to walk in love and not be so quick to judge others because we can't see the work God is doing in the lives of those needing His love. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the story line and the element of suspense in the story. T. K. is one of my favorite authors of Christian fiction, and this is another one of his that I definitely recommend. I was given a copy of this book by the author, but a favorable review was not required. The opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Kate Heinz.
123 reviews13 followers
September 5, 2017
I received a copy of this book at no cost from the author.

A beautifully written book about a very difficult topic. Having a family member who is in the LGBT community, this book hit hard on a lot of issues. This book out of all of T.K. Chapin's was the most politically-bent in nature, showing how both sides can revert to extremes. I really enjoyed Jena's character and found her inspiring in her dealing with her son's life decisions. She never once turned him away but was always there waiting. I liked John's character arc. He really developed throughout the book. Can't wait for more from T.K. Chapin.
Profile Image for Robin.
1,289 reviews17 followers
August 24, 2017
T.K. has done it again. Writing about a hot button of our society with great sensitivity. Through the eyes of a journalist seeking truth, much is uncovered about a suicide and how God views ALL sin. I was doubtful before I read it, but all I can say at this point is "I Highly Recommend This Read!!!!!"

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for RaeBeth.
Author 9 books153 followers
August 24, 2017
My interest was captured by the small description and created curiosity about how the author wrote of such a hot topic and God. The plot was interesting to say the least and pulled me in right at the beginning. I needed to keep reading to find out what led up to the current events that start off in the book. The characters are likable and well developed. I loved how the chapters were written short because it made it easier for me to have somewhere to stop, if needed.

Overall, I truly enjoyed reading this book and recommend this book for those who are looking for a faith filled read!
Profile Image for Barbara Thompson.
461 reviews13 followers
August 31, 2017
I was astonished by "In His Love". I did not know what to expect of this book, but Author T.K. Chapin wrote an excellent, but argumentative, controversial subject many authors would never touch. This novel has twists and turns, surprises, unique characters and an inspirational, stunning ending for me. He wrote an incredible book that I was hooked reading from the beginning and it kept my attention. I highly recommend reading "In His Love" by Author T.K. Chapin.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
Profile Image for Donna Mallory.
27 reviews2 followers
September 29, 2017
Homosexuality

I was asked by the Author to read this book and give my opinion. I was offered a free copy. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down.

Starts out about a reporter that goes to interview a Mother of a young man that was said to have committed suicide. He was a homosexual. The Mother said she knew different that he did not comment suicide, he was murdered. The reporter wants to find the answers so he sets off to discover the truth. Not only does he fine the answer but fines God.
Story is well written. He tells of Gods love. Gods love is for everyone even for the homosexual.
Profile Image for Elijah Abanto.
198 reviews26 followers
October 6, 2017
I have been looking for a Christian fiction book that tackles homosexuality for a relatively long time, and I'm glad that I finally found one. This one is really good -- easy to read, fast-paced, touching and engaging, not afraid to show the truth, whether negative (the bias of media over the depiction of homosexuals and Christians) or positive (the awesome love and grace of Jesus). I laughed and shed tears while reading this book. You will not be wasting your time if you read this book.
Thank you T. K. Chapin, for giving me this wonderful opportunity to write a review about yout new book.
Profile Image for Jana.
595 reviews
August 29, 2017
This is the most poignant read I've experienced! It has all the elements of a great novel with characters that traverse the gamut of emotions ~ heartache, loss, and love. It then mixes in suspense with most importantly a Christian awakening in the lead character. It opens the reader's eyes to both sides of a controversial topic in today's society, that of homosexuality. This is a masterpiece by T. K. Chapin and a must read!
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,647 reviews15 followers
August 26, 2017
In his Love

A powerfully, inspirational book. John goes to the mother of Billy to do an interview about his death. It is determined that he killed himself may not be the case. Loved all the Bible verses in the book. This is a book I could read again and still get a lot out it. I received an advanced copy of the book and definitely recommend it for everyone. It definitely touched my heart.
Profile Image for Martha.
1,940 reviews74 followers
August 21, 2018
Interesting mystery with a murder of a young man, believed to be suicide. It has a mix of family issues, issues with abusive people in the name of standing up for rights of others.
I found it a unique way to put the story together, but didn't totally agree with everything in the way it was handled, but found I learned something from it.
57 reviews
May 10, 2020
Chapin did an excellent job in presenting a current issue in today's world by using powerful images of God's love. He was sensitive to not be offensive but kept the Truth and Gospel message strong. He put my thoughts in writing as I agree with the different Christian voices and how some are
positive and others about a lot but are not the voice of God. Definitely a great read for everyone.
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews21 followers
August 23, 2017
This was an awesome gritty, romantic suspense book.
T.k. Chapin is not afraid to tackle important issues.
At the same time, we see God's grace and redemption.
Suspense grabs you, holds you fast as you read this book.
This book is for you if you like hard hitting Christian fiction.
Profile Image for Marla.
581 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2017
Wow! A very good book tackling some very controversial issues. I love how the issues were introduced. I love the characters. I love the suspense. I love how the love of God flowed throughout the Christian characters drawing others to the Lord.
205 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2018
Great book

What a great book. Really shows the true heart of Christianity. I definitely recommend taking the time to read it
9 reviews
March 6, 2023
Good Read

Books written by T.k.Chapin are inspiring and well written. They are Bible based and they teach you about life and choices we make.Christian or not read this book.
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