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Promises of God #2

If I Believe

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Sometimes the biggest risk is daring to hope.



Cinda Ellis doesn’t dare to dream. Life has dealt too many blows, and she’s come to expect disappointment. But then a lifelong dream is realized—meeting her dad—and Cinda’s life is finally turning . . . until reality crashes in once again. On the verge of despair, Cinda finds connection with a group of women from Living Hope Church—and an unlikely connection with one of Hollywood’s hottest stars. Her life just might be turning again. But will she only suffer disappointment once more?


Alonzo Coles is living the life of his dreams. On the heels of his first Academy Award nomination, people are already buzzing about his next film. But his choices—from his career to his exploits with women—are starting to bother him. And he’s reminded of a connection he’d made—to Jesus. His quest for answers—about who he is and what he’s called to do—leads him to the pastor of Living Hope Church . . . and a woman unlike any he’s encountered.


Treva Alexander is embracing her new season. A widow turned newlywed, she’s enjoying new love in a new city, in her new role as pastor’s wife. But she’s suddenly challenged when God begins to shake things up. What will she do when her faith is tested like never before?


Faith Langston is on hiatus—from life. An unexpected pregnancy has made her a new mom at twenty. Now, instead of doing big things for God as she’d hoped—or at least working toward her degree—she’s sidelined at home. And though she’d thought she and the baby’s father would rekindle a relationship, she now wonders if she’s even on his mind—or on God’s mind. Has she forfeited the plans He had for her?


“Tate has an amazing gift for getting to the heart and soul of what readers need to hear.” —Romantic Times (Though I Stumble)

388 pages, Paperback

Published July 24, 2017

225 people are currently reading
678 people want to read

About the author

Kim Cash Tate

21 books579 followers
Kim Cash Tate is the author of several books and a former practicing attorney. She has a deep love for the word of God, and loves to ignite a passion in others to not only know the Lord, but to walk intimately with Him. Kim lives in St. Louis with her husband of twenty-three years and their two children.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
Profile Image for Marietta (Mari) Taylor.
44 reviews7 followers
August 3, 2017
A must read

I don't even know where to start. I've read all of Kim's other novels. So I'm kind of (ok, ok really)invested in the characters. This book brings back many old favorites and a few new ones. As usual Kim deals with real issues in ways that real people deal with them. I laughed. I cried. I got angry. I rejoiced. Heck, I even had Bible Study. And enjoyed every second of it. I love how she has several different story lines that could stand alone but are so beautifully intertwined with each other that you'd never want it any other way. The characters are so well developed with flaws and good parts and a few with some things that you wished they'd just stop doing. But you love them all in the end. This book explores and teaches so much about love. And speaking of, if you happen to be a brown girl reading this book, oh girl, you're going to love Cinda's story ( yes, Cinda like Cinderella). You need to read this book. It. Will. Bless. You. Bring tissue and some Depends and enjoy yourself!
Profile Image for Andraea.
23 reviews13 followers
January 8, 2018
Best Christian Fiction Series I've EVER read!

I just finished this book (and Book 1 last week), and am speechless! This is definitely the BEST Christian fiction I've ever read... and that's saying a lot. I could say so much... the plot is not only relatable, but relevant, given the books' recent publishing. I laughed, I cried, and likely, my mouth gaped open multiple times from shock. I loved the plot twists... it wasn't the typical, 'inspirational' novel. It drew me in and kept me there, so much so that I finished both books in less than two weeks. I'm grateful that this was my first read of 2018, as it has helped set a precedent for my year. I really hope that a devotional will follow based on the title of the series... and, of course, more in the series overall. KUDOS TO KIM CASH TATE!
Profile Image for Melissa Leggon allen.
9 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2017
Awesome again

I just love Kimberly Cash Tate's writing style! Her characterizations with lessons in the Word intertwined is superb. Great job
Profile Image for abby o. &#x1f451;.
5 reviews
June 11, 2020
Absolutely loved this book. It was very encouraging to read. For me personally, it was a good reminder of who God is & what He can do. It was also very refreshing. Prior to coming across this trilogy, I didn’t think Fictional Christian books were even a thing. So I am also grateful for this find. You can take away a lot from it.
If there was a con it would be actually getting into the book. I found that the first couple of chapters did not reel me in the way the first book did; but eventually, it did just that. As well as keeping up with all the characters & who’s who.

Otherwise, it was amazing. Excited to read the final book.
Profile Image for Fredreka Irvine.
92 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2024
Looooved ths book! This is the second of the series. I liked this one better than the first one! I LOVE when books strengthen my relationship with Christ. I love the scriptures. And I also love these characters they are like, my friends. I want to hang out with them. I am sad that this is the last audible but I still have the other bookstore read! I'm so excited! Thanks Kim for writing these for us!
Profile Image for LaChelle Weaver.
Author 7 books61 followers
July 18, 2018
It was great to catch up with the ladies in this second book of the series. There were some unexpected surprises that made me happy, sad and hopeful which I’m learning is the hallmark of a Kim Cash Tate book. Expect the Unexpected. I’m looking forward to continuing the journey with these women in book three.
Profile Image for Mariam Cannady.
5 reviews1 follower
December 4, 2025
She’s my favorite author at this point. Great read. Great characters. Great story lines. I recommend reading her books from the beginning so that you can follow the characters stories.
Profile Image for James Fant.
Author 16 books146 followers
April 20, 2018
Great Novel, Loaded with Life Lessons

This is my first Kim Cash Tate novel. I'm a man of faith so of course I gravitate to faith based works. “If I Believe,” to me, is about believing that good things can happen to you, no matter what has already happened. Cinda found her father after many years and didn't expect that he would open his arms to her. She found a love interest in movie star Alonzo Cole but surely he wouldn't be interested in little ole her. And the book gets you to wondering: why do we sometimes innately think the worse. For Cinda, it was because of her past. I imagine it is the same for a lot of us. The danger in that is the universe has a funny way of serving up what stirs in your thoughts. That's why the bible says (and I'm paraphrasing) as a man thinks, so is he. We have to think positively no matter what. This book will strengthen that resolve in you.


I loved the lessons Kim Cash Tate places inside the novel. Think positive. Seeking first the Kingdom and making God the center of everything we do (Alonzo experiences this, feeling that tug to do right in an industry rife with wrong). And I loved the easy flow and dialogue. There are a lot of characters and the story does some shifting from one sub-plot to the next. But Kim manages the flows well enough.


I would definitely recommend this novel to a reader of faith who wants to be entertained as well as edified.

Profile Image for Valarie.
234 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2017
You absolutely should read this book, but read the first "Promises" novel Though I Stumble first. Well-written, believable characters and life lessons all wrapped up in one book. Honestly I wish these ladies were real and that they were my friends because I just wanted to be in their bible studies. I really can't pick my favorite parts. It's definitely between the "Condition & Promise" bible studies, the way the men in this novel were men who loved God and prayed for and with each other (even in times when the didn't agree) or maybe it was the romance between Alonzo and Cinda. But wait maybe it was the "I Will Believe" resolutions, which are now posted on my frig so I can see them every day. No matter, just read the book and I promise you will definitely get something out of it. There's friendship, relationship, discipleship, hardship and kinship. Definitely something for you to learn along the way.
3 reviews
February 11, 2021
If I believe... I believe I do.

This book, the follow up to Though I Stumble, is perfect for anyone in every season. Being reminded of the promises of God through the lives of these characters is no doubt one of the most impactful things about this book. If you’re reading this for the first time, you can absolutely read it for the drama or the romance... or even the comedy (Stephanie will KEEP you laughing, promise). But prepare your heart, mind and spirit to be drawn to the Lord... it’s just that powerful. And, you’ll probably read it again.. and again.. and again. :)

Thanks Kim!
Profile Image for Shannan Harper.
2,462 reviews28 followers
August 21, 2017
What can I say about this amazing book. I am so glad I pushed it up further in my to be read pile. It was such a phenomenal story, and I didn't realize it had a Cinderella theme throughout the story, but I'm glad it was especially for brown girls who don't have enough examples of that. There were also a lot of spiritual themes throughout the story, and I shed several tears while reading this story. It was truly God inspired, and I can't wait to see what the author comes up with in the next book.
Profile Image for Desirae.
49 reviews
April 12, 2025
Kim Cash Tate does it AGAIN. After this one, its safe for me to say she’s one of my favorite authors up there with Terry McMillan. It’s the way she writes characters like you’ve known them for years. Complex and authentic with real issues. It touched on themes of forgiveness and overcoming your worst battles if you just “believe”.

This book picked up right after the last one so much that she even has a scene from book 1 that mirrors a scene in this one (with Cinda meeting Stephanie…I had to go back bc I thought it looked familiar). Cinda is re-introduced as the main character as she searches for a new beginning with Stephanie’s Promises Bed & Breakfast as the central point for many of their scenes (I love to see it!). I really enjoyed her entire storyline with Randall and Alonzo. The alignment of everyone in the book through Randall speaks volume about his character and his impact. I didn’t like how they (in the book) tried to Cinderella my girl Cinda but she overcame it all.

I also appreciated the insight shared among the men and women relative to their relationship and marriages—goes to show that it isn’t always a fairytale and requires intentional work. Even from book 1, our beloved characters who we might expect to live happily ever after are still faced with challenges of their own. I love that Kim Cash Tate illustrates this journey through the men and women at varying ages and stages of their life. Also loved the message from Cinda’s journey that your time is your time and you can’t compare yourself to another person’s path. What is for you, it is for you. 💓
24 reviews
July 16, 2023
One of the best books EVER!

I absolutely LOVE this author! She is the real deal! She is not a Christian author in title only, writing non Christian under the guise of Christian. Tate has the uncanny ability to merge Christian fiction and nonfiction into a beautiful prose unlike anything else. It was fresh and different. It wasn’t a cookie cutter storyline. The character were transparent and true, There were so many amazing lessons, scriptures and teachings, but it didn’t take away from the storyline. Like I said, the perfect merger. When a primary character dies in the beginning of the story, I was shocked and contemplated not finishing. But like I said, I couldn’t stop reading it, and I am so glad I kept going. I am a fan for life! Thank you Kim Tate for showing me it can be done and setting my expectations high.
Profile Image for Ardria Weston.
18 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2025
Not If, but I Do Believe!

This book was better than the first book in the APOG series. There was drama, dysfunction, laughter, godly sisterhood, and strong godly men friendships. I enjoyed the MC females and males and there was just enough drama and enough dysfunction that it was realistic in the storylines. There were a few new characters who I was happy to see again. There was growth in them and in their walk with God.

Kim Cash Tate did not overwrite the storylines. The book was ended on a good note and it did not leave me wondering what happened to the characters. It was long enough, juicier, and drama filled enough to keep my taste buds wanting more. I enjoyed scriptures throughout the book.

I don't have any negative things to say about this book and its characters.

This is worth the read! I would recommend the series and I haven't even finished it.
605 reviews
April 26, 2018
Trusting God🙏🏽

This book resonated with me in so many ways. I really saw myself in Cinda because I am quick to say I am a realist. The disappointments in life can cause a person to doubt and fear. I love the characters this author has created because they are so relatable with all the life issues. I love this author’s work because I always feel as though I am in bible study. I love how she explains the truth of God’s word. I am always encouraged after reading her books. If you need encouragement I would suggest downloading or ordering because you will not be disappointed. I wanted more❤️
46 reviews2 followers
January 20, 2021
This is such a good book and series!!!

This book solidified this author as one of my favorites! I loved this book and screamed, praised, laughed, and cried my way through it. I felt that I knew each character and felt I could identify with each of the main ladies and their struggles and triumphs. I know that God led me to This series of books to stretch and transform me. My thanksgiving out to the author of this book series because I know without a doubt that God led her to do this! I'd recommend this series to anyone that's questioning their identity, purpose, or if God cares for them. He definitely does and This book highlights that fact.
Profile Image for Nancy DeValve.
458 reviews2 followers
December 27, 2023
In this book we read stories of four characters, all friends, who face challenges to their faith. I like how real the characters are and how their struggles could be anyone's. This book is a series and I thought I had read them all, but I obviously missed the book before this one. There were enough references to the past to figure out what I missed, but really, you need to start the series at the beginning. Even then it's hard to keep track of all the characters (a lot more than four... It was just four telling their stories in this book.) Overall, a good book that does more than just tell a good story.... It also makes one look at their own Christian walk.
Profile Image for Ardria Weston.
19 reviews
July 6, 2025
This second book in the APOG series was better than the first one. It was filled with drama, dysfunction, loss, jealousy and envy. Love came out on top! The MC, Cinda, was enjoyable and the return of Treva and Lance and the church folks. A debut character is Alonzo Coles who is seeking godly counsel and so much more.

The characters were relatable and personable. If you can’t relate then you know someone like them. Some surprises good and bad but life be “lifing” in this story. Once I was locked in I was locked in! The author included scripture throughout the story and it gave the reader a glimpse into God’s word.

I would recommend reading this book! 📕 Enjoy!
Profile Image for Arlisia.
52 reviews7 followers
August 5, 2017
Need a faith refresher? It's ok to believe again

I don't even know where to start but each book she writes speaks directly to a situation I am dealing with. The new characters that we meet in this book add to the already outstanding real life cast of characters. I don't want to say too much, because I don't want to give anything away, but know in typical Kim Cash Tate fashion, she does not disappoint!!! I can't wait for the third installment of this series. May God continue to bless Kim Cash Tate!
Profile Image for Julie.
6 reviews
August 21, 2017
Fiction that feels like real life

If I Believe is another great book by Kim Cash Tate. I love that Kim writes from her perspective as an African American woman. I can't relate to that perspective, but I love that her message is for all women. Her characters come alive in a way t that you feel as if you are right there with them. The situations aren't always solved in a cookie cutter/fairy tale way & yet you feel the love for each other. Heartbreak, sadness, love, etc are all handled in ways so that you know that God is in control. I can't wait for the next book. I'm looking forward to catching up again with Treva & Lance, Stephanie & Lindell, Faith, Reggie, & Jesse, & more.
Profile Image for April.
325 reviews5 followers
January 24, 2020
Believable

If I Believe was an absolute good read from cover to cover. I enjoyed catching up with the members of Living Word Church and meeting new characters. The text is well written, characters and situations within the story are relatable and have you feeling all types of emotions. I like the concept of the themed ladies night bible studies. This story delivers a message of faith, love, hope, forgiveness, and causes you to take time to self-reflect and check yourself and relationship with God!!
Profile Image for Latanya.
92 reviews24 followers
February 11, 2018
OMG!!! An amazing download from God❤️

This was such an amazing real modern day Bible story. An increase in my faith for sure! Kim Cash Tate delivers with every single book I have read from her...this one is no exception. If you have a desire to have your faith empowered & increased, grab this book AND your Bible. Allow this to be a tool of strengthening for you as it was for me. This is a powerful story of redemption, forgiveness and God’s amazing love towards us😘❤️
213 reviews
April 14, 2019
It was great to catch up with some of the gang from the first installment of this series. And as always I enjoyed the Bible studies. Well done! Just a note: My first Kim Cash Tate novel was book one of this series. I later read Hidden Blessings which is actually the lead in to the first book of this series. I wish I had read them in order but I'm so glad I read Hidden Blessings just the same. Stellar!
Profile Image for Jessica Montaque.
8 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2019
Another great instalment for these amazing characters. To feel uplifted after reading a book is an amazing feeling. Life has twists and turns that we cannot expect. But why not let God take the lead? He was before us, with us now, and will be with us in our future. These books have opened me up to a deeper relationship ship with God and those around me. Amazing tale of forgiveness, love, anger, joy and most of all belief.
13 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2021
Refreshing real life read.

I really enjoyed this book because of the way life was presented...in a real way. I found myself wishing I could be a part of the lady's Bible study. I was a little envious of how their community of friends and family were there for one another. I appreciated the spiritual accountability shown in relationships. The message that God meets us where we are but doesn't leave us there was strong! I will look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Profile Image for Aundrea.
7 reviews
July 9, 2023
Second book in the series and my second read by Kim Cash Tate and I am blown away by the glory given to God throughout. This story is filled with real life struggles and faith, hope and love (the greatest of these is love). The Bible study being a part of the book is genius. I want to write like this someday. It is inspiring how Kim Cash Tate let the Lord use her for these stories and I enjoyed every moment of reading this one!
15 reviews
August 23, 2024
Overwhelmingly Beautiful

I am certain now I have a serious favorite author. Each book that I have read has engulfed me more and more into the lives of the characters. Part of me wishes they were real so I could meet them and visit the B and B. I am beyond grateful to have been overwhelmed by the beauty of God's promises in this book. Grateful for every scripture reference. God bless KCT in all God puts before her.
Profile Image for La'Shonda Newman.
69 reviews4 followers
January 28, 2025
Listen!!!
Treva, Lance, Faith, Reggie, Jesse, Steph, Jillian, Cyd, etc.....

Go read Though I Stumble (Book 1)
The first 4 chapters are so HEAVY! If you are a prayer warrior, believer in Jesus Christ...be ready!

After just reading these 2 books, I got to step my prayer life and belief system up! Im slacking!

From love to death.
From doubt to fear...these books covers it all!

I can't wait to finish this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews

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