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Riverbend Saga #1
Journey to Riverbend
Sometimes the journey is only the beginning . . .
Michael Archer might not have been able to save Ben Carstairs, but he vowed to carry out Ben’s dying wish: to be reconciled with his father. What he doesn’t know is that Sam Carstairs—the most ruthless businessman on the frontier—has no use for his own son, much less a man of God seeking reconciliation.
Soon after arriving in the booming town of Riverbend, Michael meets the stunning Rachel Stone while waiting for Sam to return from a business trip. Beautiful yet guarded, Rachel is running from a past as dark as Michael’s, and the last thing she expects –or thinks she deserves—is a chance at love.
When word reaches town that Sam has been kidnapped on the stagecoach home, Michael joins the search posse. But the trail ahead is more dangerous than any had imagined, and making it back alive will require Michael to face his past and overcome his deepest fear.
Michael Archer might not have been able to save Ben Carstairs, but he vowed to carry out Ben’s dying wish: to be reconciled with his father. What he doesn’t know is that Sam Carstairs—the most ruthless businessman on the frontier—has no use for his own son, much less a man of God seeking reconciliation.
Soon after arriving in the booming town of Riverbend, Michael meets the stunning Rachel Stone while waiting for Sam to return from a business trip. Beautiful yet guarded, Rachel is running from a past as dark as Michael’s, and the last thing she expects –or thinks she deserves—is a chance at love.
When word reaches town that Sam has been kidnapped on the stagecoach home, Michael joins the search posse. But the trail ahead is more dangerous than any had imagined, and making it back alive will require Michael to face his past and overcome his deepest fear.
421 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2011
22 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Henry McLaughlin
6 books48 followersHenry McLaughlin has a Master’s degree in social work and spent many years working in public child welfare in Rhode Island. It was in this role that he first honed his writing skills in preparing concise and accurate court reports and petitions. He retired from that career in 1999 to work with Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Henry won the prestigious 2009 Operation First Novel Award sponsored by Tyndale House and the Christian Writers Guild. His award-winning first novel, Journey to Riverbend, was released in January, 2011.
To improve his craft, Henry belongs to several Christian writer organizations; attends writers’ conferences, workshops and retreats; and participates in online and local critique groups.
In September, 2010, the Lord opened the door for Henry to enter writing full time. He also speaks and teaches writing workshops. He serves as a Writers Coach for North Texas Christian Writers where he is privileged to work with several small groups.
Henry and his wife, Linda, have been married for 43 years and live in Saginaw, Texas. They are the parents of five children, the oldest of whom is in heaven. They also have one grandchild.
To improve his craft, Henry belongs to several Christian writer organizations; attends writers’ conferences, workshops and retreats; and participates in online and local critique groups.
In September, 2010, the Lord opened the door for Henry to enter writing full time. He also speaks and teaches writing workshops. He serves as a Writers Coach for North Texas Christian Writers where he is privileged to work with several small groups.
Henry and his wife, Linda, have been married for 43 years and live in Saginaw, Texas. They are the parents of five children, the oldest of whom is in heaven. They also have one grandchild.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 8, 2016
Journey to Riverbend, book 1 of the Riverbend Sagas, is a debut novel for Henry McLaughlin. If you loved the old TV westerns or western movies, then you will find this a good read. I particularly liked that the hero and heroine, as well as many of the minor characters, were so realistic and definitely had their strengths and weaknesses. Both Michael and Rachel had sins in their past that they were trying to overcome with God's help. This book has a strong faith thread that is used appropriately without feeling as though it was just "inserted." Some people may object to some of the violence depicted in the book which is one reason that I gave it a 4 rather than a 5. But to portray this part of American history when the west was wild would have been difficult especially with the author's thread throughout focusing on good vs. evil.
Favorite Quotes: "It's best to seek God's help. He can bring things together and heal wounded hearts. He cares about what happens to His people in this life as well as how they'll spend eternity, in heaven or hell."
"...when something happens to remind me that my past will always follow me. - It may follow you, but it's not you anymore."
"This crossroad isn't some test from God. It's a tool of the devil to discourage us, divide us, and lead us astray."
"I believe that God does not put sickness and disease on people. Satan does. He does it not only to hurt people, but also to make the ones who love them and have to watch them suffer turn against God. But God doesn't leave us to deal with our suffering alone. God hurts when we hurt and He does show up to help us. He just doesn't always do it in the way we expect."
Favorite Quotes: "It's best to seek God's help. He can bring things together and heal wounded hearts. He cares about what happens to His people in this life as well as how they'll spend eternity, in heaven or hell."
"...when something happens to remind me that my past will always follow me. - It may follow you, but it's not you anymore."
"This crossroad isn't some test from God. It's a tool of the devil to discourage us, divide us, and lead us astray."
"I believe that God does not put sickness and disease on people. Satan does. He does it not only to hurt people, but also to make the ones who love them and have to watch them suffer turn against God. But God doesn't leave us to deal with our suffering alone. God hurts when we hurt and He does show up to help us. He just doesn't always do it in the way we expect."
February 7, 2011
If you are a regular reader of my reviews, you will have heard this from me many times. I love debut novels. I will pretty much read any debut novel regardless of what it is about. I do particularly like a good western every now and then. All of these things combined to create a strong desire in me to read Journey to Riverbend. And, once again, a debut novel has captured my heart with a wonderful story of faith, love and the importance of having a forgiving heart.
This story of Journey to Riverbend was a complex and interesting one with characters who must face their past and their sins. This is not your typical, run-of-the-mill romances. There is a depth to the characters and to this story that you just don’t see in every book. I think it makes a difference that this book was written by a man because that gives it a slightly different take on the themes presented here. It is also exceptionally well written. This story moved very quickly and managed to hold my attention even through some of the more dramatic moments. Overall, Journey to Riverbend is a very well-rounded debut novel. I always have very high expectations for debut novels and this one exceeded those expectations. The story is good, the writing is excellent, and the Christian message is solid and meaningful. I am already looking forward to seeing what Henry McLaughlin writes next.
This story of Journey to Riverbend was a complex and interesting one with characters who must face their past and their sins. This is not your typical, run-of-the-mill romances. There is a depth to the characters and to this story that you just don’t see in every book. I think it makes a difference that this book was written by a man because that gives it a slightly different take on the themes presented here. It is also exceptionally well written. This story moved very quickly and managed to hold my attention even through some of the more dramatic moments. Overall, Journey to Riverbend is a very well-rounded debut novel. I always have very high expectations for debut novels and this one exceeded those expectations. The story is good, the writing is excellent, and the Christian message is solid and meaningful. I am already looking forward to seeing what Henry McLaughlin writes next.
June 25, 2014
Truly one of the best books I've read. I'm a speed reader so it's hard to keep my interest (no long, wordy, boring descriptions of things not pertaining to the plot). I took the time to savor this each chapter like the last few bites of my favorite Thanksgiving pie. The characters become alive in such a way that it seems rude to call them "characters". The only negative comment I could have is that the story ended. In my mind, of course, I have imagined the rest of the story. As well as the legacy that was created. Seldom do I read a book that comes to life each time a similar characteristic of a friend or a situation in real life presents itself.
January 27, 2015
A stellar debut! If Louis L'Amour wrote inspirational fiction, he would write something like this.
June 2, 2017
A Christian western with a lot of gunslingers, kidnappings and much more to enjoy.
After unsuccessfully trying to stop the hanging of a man, Michael Archer has a mission. He promised Ben Carstairs that he would find his father for him and try to reconcile with him, even though he is being hung for a crime he didn’t commit. Michael tried to stop it but couldn’t get the evidence he needed. Now Michael must travel to the town of Riverbend to find Sam Carstairs, a ruthless business man that kicked his son Ben out and isn’t likely to give Michael the time of day. As he arrives in Riverbend, Michael meets and quickly finds himself attracted to Rachel Stone who is running from her past and is hesitant to start any kind of relationship. Sam Carstairs isn’t in town and Michael waits for him. Soon word gets to town that Sam has been kidnapped on his way home and Michael feels led to join the search party to find Sam and bring the news of his son. It is a dangerous road ahead and not everyone will make it home alive.
This was the winner of the Christian Writing Guild’s Operation First Novel contest. The writing is well done and the characters are very relatable. I did feel that it had some unneeded content, especially in the last third where the action needed to pick up speed and instead stalled. There were a lot of characters, that is a hard thing to pull off and I think it could have helped to cut out about half of them, especially with the search party scenes. The overall concept of the novel was good, having the characters consider the actions they take and the consequences to their choices. Even though this is a historical novel, these concepts can be applied to everyday life and we can all learn from the characters and how they deal with their actions and the consequences. As a debut novel, this was very well done and I recommend it to lovers of historical fiction with a good message.
After unsuccessfully trying to stop the hanging of a man, Michael Archer has a mission. He promised Ben Carstairs that he would find his father for him and try to reconcile with him, even though he is being hung for a crime he didn’t commit. Michael tried to stop it but couldn’t get the evidence he needed. Now Michael must travel to the town of Riverbend to find Sam Carstairs, a ruthless business man that kicked his son Ben out and isn’t likely to give Michael the time of day. As he arrives in Riverbend, Michael meets and quickly finds himself attracted to Rachel Stone who is running from her past and is hesitant to start any kind of relationship. Sam Carstairs isn’t in town and Michael waits for him. Soon word gets to town that Sam has been kidnapped on his way home and Michael feels led to join the search party to find Sam and bring the news of his son. It is a dangerous road ahead and not everyone will make it home alive.
This was the winner of the Christian Writing Guild’s Operation First Novel contest. The writing is well done and the characters are very relatable. I did feel that it had some unneeded content, especially in the last third where the action needed to pick up speed and instead stalled. There were a lot of characters, that is a hard thing to pull off and I think it could have helped to cut out about half of them, especially with the search party scenes. The overall concept of the novel was good, having the characters consider the actions they take and the consequences to their choices. Even though this is a historical novel, these concepts can be applied to everyday life and we can all learn from the characters and how they deal with their actions and the consequences. As a debut novel, this was very well done and I recommend it to lovers of historical fiction with a good message.
February 3, 2020
After arriving in Riverbend Michael Archer meets Rachel Stone. Sam Carstairs is kidnapped while onboard a stagecoach. Micahel joins the posse.
I love clean reads and I'm encouraged when the Bible is woven into the pages of a book. Journey to Riverbend has both. From the opening scene (hanging) to the final scene, this book was gripping. The characters are interesting, as well as the plot. There was back story that added to the book.
Henry is a master storyteller, who puts the reader into the Old West. Except for Christianity, this story reminded me of Louis L'Amour's books.
I love clean reads and I'm encouraged when the Bible is woven into the pages of a book. Journey to Riverbend has both. From the opening scene (hanging) to the final scene, this book was gripping. The characters are interesting, as well as the plot. There was back story that added to the book.
Henry is a master storyteller, who puts the reader into the Old West. Except for Christianity, this story reminded me of Louis L'Amour's books.
May 27, 2024
Excellent Read!!
May 7, 2014
Journey to Riverbend is one of those books that is a stand alone with potential for much more. This first time author writes such magnetic characters with unique living and breathing voices that I have had the desire to move to Riverbend to get to know its people better. Even the unsavory residents add to the town's charm and vitality. The action is so driving that I couldn't put the book down once I started reading.
The opening scene is the hanging of a gangly young man whom the main character, Michael Archer, is convinced is innocent. Young Ben's final request was to ask Michael to visit his estranged father, Sam Carstairs, to deliver some letters, an item Ben cherished of his mother's, and attempt a post-mortem reconciliation of some sort.
Michael Archer brought along a letter of recommendation from his friend Sheriff Gideon Parsons to take to Riverbend's Sheriff to elicit his assistance in his efforts. Sheriff Caleb Davis was as good as Parsons in reading character, and this lean and tough young man didn't appear to be the typical kind for ministerial duties. It made him curious to know Michael's life story. He knew this task would be difficult because although Sam Carstairs was the town's benefactor, he was ruthless and hard as nails.
In the meantime, Sam Carstairs had traveled to San Francisco for business, an annual event. On the return trip, he received two disturbing threatening notes. Then in the last leg of his journey he was abducted. As soon as news of the kidnapping reached Riverbend, Sheriff Davis organized a search posse and included Michael Archer.
This is one of the best books I have read set in the Old Wild West. The author's descriptive language is powerful. The setting as well as the characters came alive as we follow Michael along his personal, spiritual, and physical journey. The reader realizes that the title of the book is multi-dimensional as the story picks up on Sam Carstairs own harrowing experiences and the baffling behavior of his abductors.
The book is full of the gritty elements of life in the Old Wild West. Evil is honestly portrayed for what it is and well written in contrast to the good seen in the lives of several of the members of the posse and village. Michael is a strong Christian with a mission in mind, but even he has his demons to deal with. I would rate this book at PG13 because of the multiple incidences where evil triumphs momentarily. Yet while this is true, the Gospel message is strong without being preachy. The author manages to balance the two contrasting characteristics in such a manner that neither is overwhelming. If the author were to write 100 more of this type of book, I would read and recommend all.
However, I can't emphasize enough to parents of teens and pre-teens to exercise caution. There is nothing in the book to compromise the Judeo-Christian values, yet some incidences may be upsetting to those sensitive to brutality. This is a book written for adults, not for children.
There are several supporting characters in this book just begging for a story of their own, or at least for a bit more resolution. This includes the love interest of the main character, Rachel Stone. I sincerely hope this means the author intends to write more.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The opening scene is the hanging of a gangly young man whom the main character, Michael Archer, is convinced is innocent. Young Ben's final request was to ask Michael to visit his estranged father, Sam Carstairs, to deliver some letters, an item Ben cherished of his mother's, and attempt a post-mortem reconciliation of some sort.
Michael Archer brought along a letter of recommendation from his friend Sheriff Gideon Parsons to take to Riverbend's Sheriff to elicit his assistance in his efforts. Sheriff Caleb Davis was as good as Parsons in reading character, and this lean and tough young man didn't appear to be the typical kind for ministerial duties. It made him curious to know Michael's life story. He knew this task would be difficult because although Sam Carstairs was the town's benefactor, he was ruthless and hard as nails.
In the meantime, Sam Carstairs had traveled to San Francisco for business, an annual event. On the return trip, he received two disturbing threatening notes. Then in the last leg of his journey he was abducted. As soon as news of the kidnapping reached Riverbend, Sheriff Davis organized a search posse and included Michael Archer.
This is one of the best books I have read set in the Old Wild West. The author's descriptive language is powerful. The setting as well as the characters came alive as we follow Michael along his personal, spiritual, and physical journey. The reader realizes that the title of the book is multi-dimensional as the story picks up on Sam Carstairs own harrowing experiences and the baffling behavior of his abductors.
The book is full of the gritty elements of life in the Old Wild West. Evil is honestly portrayed for what it is and well written in contrast to the good seen in the lives of several of the members of the posse and village. Michael is a strong Christian with a mission in mind, but even he has his demons to deal with. I would rate this book at PG13 because of the multiple incidences where evil triumphs momentarily. Yet while this is true, the Gospel message is strong without being preachy. The author manages to balance the two contrasting characteristics in such a manner that neither is overwhelming. If the author were to write 100 more of this type of book, I would read and recommend all.
However, I can't emphasize enough to parents of teens and pre-teens to exercise caution. There is nothing in the book to compromise the Judeo-Christian values, yet some incidences may be upsetting to those sensitive to brutality. This is a book written for adults, not for children.
There are several supporting characters in this book just begging for a story of their own, or at least for a bit more resolution. This includes the love interest of the main character, Rachel Stone. I sincerely hope this means the author intends to write more.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 31, 2011
Henry McLaughlin in his new book, "Journey To Riverbendl" published by Tyndale House Publishers takes us to the town of Riverbend in 1878.
Michael Archer is a jail chaplain who makes a promise of delivering a message to the father of Ben Carstairs, a prisoner, who is being hung, although he is innocent. So Michael makes the journey to Riverbend to see Sam Carstairs. He discovers that Carstairs is not a well liked man, it seems he treats people with disdain, using them for his own gain.
While waiting for an opportunity to meet Carstairs Michael meets the attractive Rachel Stone and the two are drawn to each other. Then the unthinkable happens: Sam has been kidnapped on the stagecoach home by someone who seeks revenge. Now Michael joins the rescue posse which is not going to be easy as the kidnapper begins to play with them.
Henry McLaughlin has written a compelling Western adventure filled with action, gun-battles and romance. "Journey To Riverbend" is a book that will draw you in as you seek to answer the questions: why must Michael find Sam? why was Sam really kidnapped? will Sam accept the message Michael has to deliver? And will the lovely Rachel forgive herself? I highly recommend it and am looking forward to more from Henry McLaughlin.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Michael Archer is a jail chaplain who makes a promise of delivering a message to the father of Ben Carstairs, a prisoner, who is being hung, although he is innocent. So Michael makes the journey to Riverbend to see Sam Carstairs. He discovers that Carstairs is not a well liked man, it seems he treats people with disdain, using them for his own gain.
While waiting for an opportunity to meet Carstairs Michael meets the attractive Rachel Stone and the two are drawn to each other. Then the unthinkable happens: Sam has been kidnapped on the stagecoach home by someone who seeks revenge. Now Michael joins the rescue posse which is not going to be easy as the kidnapper begins to play with them.
Henry McLaughlin has written a compelling Western adventure filled with action, gun-battles and romance. "Journey To Riverbend" is a book that will draw you in as you seek to answer the questions: why must Michael find Sam? why was Sam really kidnapped? will Sam accept the message Michael has to deliver? And will the lovely Rachel forgive herself? I highly recommend it and am looking forward to more from Henry McLaughlin.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 26, 2016
I have a hard time with books that get all "Jesus!", but this one made it even harder by giving Rachel visions. From God. The last page is a vision of Michael and deep, peace-inducing voice in her head saying, "This is the man I have chosen to be your husband." Literally the last words of the book. I will shamelessly admit that my eyes rolled. I just can't take it. I mean, I can understand why God doesn't give me visions, 'cause I'm all full of the doubt and the crazy theories that lots of people might call heretical. But I know plenty of people who absolutely have no doubt, and they don't have visions from God. Honestly, I would love to have a vision of a man with the caption "YOUR FUTURE HUSBAND," just so I know what to be looking for. But life just doesn't work that way. Not in my experience anyway. (Not to bash anyone who has had a vision from God; more power to you.) So having it all spelled out for the main character like that, and then not even giving us any more book after that? Not a cool move, dude. I guess there's a sequel where McLaughlin probably addresses a lot of the things I feel cheated out of right now, but with all the "Jesus!", I'm not sure I can handle reading it just for a wedding that I've basically been told has to happen. Why would God choose a husband for Rachel, tell her about it in a vision, and then kill one of them off? I have so many issues that I'm considering dropping my rating from two stars down to one....
P.S. On second thought, I don't want a vision from God of a man with the "YOUR FUTURE HUSBAND" caption, 'cause that just gets me all, "What about free will!!?? How do I have free will if you're the one choosing my husband!?"
P.S. On second thought, I don't want a vision from God of a man with the "YOUR FUTURE HUSBAND" caption, 'cause that just gets me all, "What about free will!!?? How do I have free will if you're the one choosing my husband!?"
February 12, 2011
*Spoiler Alert*
A romance book written by a man?
Admittingly, I was prejudicial going into the book. But from the first page where he starts Chapter 1 with, "The crowd was small for a hanging. Quieter than usual, as if they all knew justice would not be served today," had me hooked. Would the romance part take backseat to the action? Not when he writes, "The morning light glowed around her. An orb of pale sunshine highlighted her elegant features and brightened her pale yellow dress. Released from the bonnet in her hand, her hair cascaded to her shoulders and framed her face with light brown wisps. Her eyes sparkled. Her lips moved soundlessly. She followed the path to the river."
The story reminded me a little of other western-romances, but Henry McLaughlin takes the story down its different rabbit trails. He introduces us to several characters, but centers around three of them: Michael Archer, Rachel Stone, and Sam Carstairs. Three people who have dark pasts; two that were rescued and introduced to Christ. Sam, however, is a complex character. I didn't expect McLaughlin to develop the character the way he did, and I made certain assumptions based on past western-romances that I had read by a variety of authors.
A romance book written by a man?
It's possible. He does a fantastic job of bringing the story together. The only confusion was at the end. I didn't know where Michael had come from; one moment Rachel was alone and in the next she found herself in Michael's arms. That confusion didn't detract from a fulfilling happy ending. Book Reviews are always impartial. This book provided by the publisher for review.
A romance book written by a man?
Admittingly, I was prejudicial going into the book. But from the first page where he starts Chapter 1 with, "The crowd was small for a hanging. Quieter than usual, as if they all knew justice would not be served today," had me hooked. Would the romance part take backseat to the action? Not when he writes, "The morning light glowed around her. An orb of pale sunshine highlighted her elegant features and brightened her pale yellow dress. Released from the bonnet in her hand, her hair cascaded to her shoulders and framed her face with light brown wisps. Her eyes sparkled. Her lips moved soundlessly. She followed the path to the river."
The story reminded me a little of other western-romances, but Henry McLaughlin takes the story down its different rabbit trails. He introduces us to several characters, but centers around three of them: Michael Archer, Rachel Stone, and Sam Carstairs. Three people who have dark pasts; two that were rescued and introduced to Christ. Sam, however, is a complex character. I didn't expect McLaughlin to develop the character the way he did, and I made certain assumptions based on past western-romances that I had read by a variety of authors.
A romance book written by a man?
It's possible. He does a fantastic job of bringing the story together. The only confusion was at the end. I didn't know where Michael had come from; one moment Rachel was alone and in the next she found herself in Michael's arms. That confusion didn't detract from a fulfilling happy ending. Book Reviews are always impartial. This book provided by the publisher for review.
December 31, 2011
Journey to Riverbend has a good basis for what could have been a great book. McLaughlin has begun the process of creating characters that are interesting and that you could invest yourself in; however, they never developed into a character that you really wanted to know more about. This book felt very surface level, although it was full of mentions of the characters past it never went into enough details or how each character was coping only enough information was given to know about their background.
I do not usually read historical fiction, and this would have not been my first choice, this book left a lot of questions and never developed fully. The story follows Michael Archer on his quest to help a son apologize to his father and along the way he meets Rachel Stone, a girl relatively new to Riverbend and trying to move beyond her past. I struggled to really get into this book, the story seemed to leap between events happening within the characters life but never really focused on the people only what was happening around them, some of these events and violence that took place was a little to descriptive and was uncalled for.
Journey to Riverbend was an ok book, I would have liked the characters and plot line to be more developed and to really be able to sink into this story.
I do not usually read historical fiction, and this would have not been my first choice, this book left a lot of questions and never developed fully. The story follows Michael Archer on his quest to help a son apologize to his father and along the way he meets Rachel Stone, a girl relatively new to Riverbend and trying to move beyond her past. I struggled to really get into this book, the story seemed to leap between events happening within the characters life but never really focused on the people only what was happening around them, some of these events and violence that took place was a little to descriptive and was uncalled for.
Journey to Riverbend was an ok book, I would have liked the characters and plot line to be more developed and to really be able to sink into this story.
March 3, 2013
Rating: 3.5 stars
I must say I did really like this book, and I struggled whether to give it 3 or 4 stars. I appreciate that the author was unafraid to proclaim the name of Jesus, and I thought the plot was amazing! Some scenes and lines made me laugh out loud til tears came to my eyes!
I think some content (whether romantic or violent) was described in fuller detail than necessary. The villains were definitely evil, and one character is struggling to overcome a past spent in prostitution. Other readers may not mind this content.
Another thing that I found odd was that I enjoyed supporting characters more than I did the principals. That usually doesn't happen for me. Even when I do really like the sub-characters, I usually admire the hero/heroine more. I tried to understand that the hero was still growing in the Lord, but some things seemed obvious to me that he was not understanding(i.e. God may use His children to bring justice to evil people, and that's not wrong).
Overall, I did really enjoy the book. The shorter chapters made it a super easy read, and I would willingly read another book by this author. I hate giving books such a low rating, especially when I'm not sure, and I feel very tempted to go back and change it to 4 stars (which is what I give most books). For now, though, I'll stick with my original gut-vote. :)
I must say I did really like this book, and I struggled whether to give it 3 or 4 stars. I appreciate that the author was unafraid to proclaim the name of Jesus, and I thought the plot was amazing! Some scenes and lines made me laugh out loud til tears came to my eyes!
I think some content (whether romantic or violent) was described in fuller detail than necessary. The villains were definitely evil, and one character is struggling to overcome a past spent in prostitution. Other readers may not mind this content.
Another thing that I found odd was that I enjoyed supporting characters more than I did the principals. That usually doesn't happen for me. Even when I do really like the sub-characters, I usually admire the hero/heroine more. I tried to understand that the hero was still growing in the Lord, but some things seemed obvious to me that he was not understanding(i.e. God may use His children to bring justice to evil people, and that's not wrong).
Overall, I did really enjoy the book. The shorter chapters made it a super easy read, and I would willingly read another book by this author. I hate giving books such a low rating, especially when I'm not sure, and I feel very tempted to go back and change it to 4 stars (which is what I give most books). For now, though, I'll stick with my original gut-vote. :)
July 3, 2016
Michael is at the hanging of an innocent man, Ben Carstairs. Right before his death, Ben asks Michael to find his father and give him a message. Michael begins the journey with only one thought in mind. He'll find Mr. Carstairs, give the message and then go on with his life. But his plans aren't even close to reality. A beautiful woman, a manhunt, and death were not on the agenda. But God can bring beauty out of death and pain.
I just couldn't love this book the I wanted to. The cover kept me from even starting the book, but once I did, it didn't get any better. The characters didn't resonate with me. The plot was slow moving and easily predictable. And the ending was left in such a way that there might be a sequel, but I couldn't find any hint that another book was coming. If you like any loose ends tied up, then you won't like the ending. There wasn't anything at all resolved. My summery would be that this is a Christian western with lots of "preaching", quite a bit of violence, scenes not appropriate for children to read, and a good writing style. I'm giving the book such a low rating because I really didn't like the book and can't honestly recommend it to anyone.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
I just couldn't love this book the I wanted to. The cover kept me from even starting the book, but once I did, it didn't get any better. The characters didn't resonate with me. The plot was slow moving and easily predictable. And the ending was left in such a way that there might be a sequel, but I couldn't find any hint that another book was coming. If you like any loose ends tied up, then you won't like the ending. There wasn't anything at all resolved. My summery would be that this is a Christian western with lots of "preaching", quite a bit of violence, scenes not appropriate for children to read, and a good writing style. I'm giving the book such a low rating because I really didn't like the book and can't honestly recommend it to anyone.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
April 29, 2011
Henry McLaughlin is a award winner of Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild, which really perked my interest in reading the Journey to Riverbend. I found I can trust that the award winners will be a very good pick for reading and I looked forward to enjoying "Journey to Riverbend" I was not disappointed. I found the book to be a delightful page turner, I would have read it from the beginning to end without stopping had I started reading it on a weekend. The characters come to life and you feel you know them on a personal level, you feel their joy and their sorrow you feel involved. This is a book I highly recommend you put on your must read list, it has some surprising twist and turns that will keep your interest and is filled with action, faith and love. I found "Journey to Riverbend" intriguing and find Henry McLaughlin a well deserved award winner that I will enjoy following.
Journey to Riverbend is a definite page turner, so plan on reading when you have time to enjoy it as you will not put it down! This book is a really great read!
Journey to Riverbend is a definite page turner, so plan on reading when you have time to enjoy it as you will not put it down! This book is a really great read!
July 25, 2012
This was the first book I have read by Henry McLaughlin. It was a very interesting book. It was not at all what I would have expected from a male author. I was pretty amazed at how he was able to get into the heart and mind of the female character and what she was thinking and feeling!
He did even a better job of expressing her thoughts from this perspective than a lot of female authors I have read over the years.
While there is violence and unsavory things that are dealt with in this book. Henry does it in a very Christian way that is not offensive but doesn't dance around the subject. I do wish that he had finished up on the story line of the main guy's guilt over his father and let him settle that issue by finding out what had happened after he left, one way or the other. I hate when a very important part of a story line that is mentioned so very many times, never gets an answer by the end and I'm left hanging.
But other than that. I really liked this book and will be keeping my eyes open for more books by Henry McLaughlin!
He did even a better job of expressing her thoughts from this perspective than a lot of female authors I have read over the years.
While there is violence and unsavory things that are dealt with in this book. Henry does it in a very Christian way that is not offensive but doesn't dance around the subject. I do wish that he had finished up on the story line of the main guy's guilt over his father and let him settle that issue by finding out what had happened after he left, one way or the other. I hate when a very important part of a story line that is mentioned so very many times, never gets an answer by the end and I'm left hanging.
But other than that. I really liked this book and will be keeping my eyes open for more books by Henry McLaughlin!
September 11, 2015
I disliked this book from the start! Michael and Rachel met and were attracted to each other right away 5 days later they were talking about a relationship.. and just imaging with her being a former prostitute (forced to boot) you wouldn't trust guys so readily even though he's a preacher! sure they were both Christians and you can overcome your past but she had been out of that lifestyle for 6 months! and then the weeks that the posse searched for Sam just dragged... I skip read lots cause it was real boring! Maria was a different character too! dunno how she could kill someone in cold blood( it was quite gross and disgusting how descriptive the murders were) one minute and show affection to her husband or father the next. that was just weird. but yeah overall this book was disappointing.. worst one I've read in a long time, hope it stays that way!
February 17, 2011
Can a former prostitute and a former thief who have come to know the Lord as savior find forgiveness and acceptance - and maybe love? Rachel Stone and Michael Archer both have pasts they are not proud of - the plot revolves around this theme. Michael made a promise to a dying man to find his father and Rachel is trying to open a dress shop when they meet in Riverbend. I liked: the characters were well developed and real. The story line was fast paced and kept your interest. What I didn't like: The graphic sex and violence (including several murders and an attempted rape) crossed the line for me for a Christian novel. I also was disappointed in the ending - it was too abrupt with too many loose ends.
This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2011
Michael Archer rides into Riverbend carrying a note addressed to the Sheriff. Michael has one mission, to deliver a message to a father from his son. The father does not think much of religion and has earned a reputation of being shrewd. Upon arriving in Riverbend Michael meets Rachel Stone, and is mesmerized by her. Rachel is staying at the home of the pastor and his family. Both she and Michael are held captive by their pasts.
This unique western novel was a thrill to read and it captured my attention from the first chapter. Action + romance + faith = one fantastic hard to put down book! Lots of twists and turns! Excellent character development and scenic imagry, storyline flowed well. I highly recommend it.
This unique western novel was a thrill to read and it captured my attention from the first chapter. Action + romance + faith = one fantastic hard to put down book! Lots of twists and turns! Excellent character development and scenic imagry, storyline flowed well. I highly recommend it.
July 31, 2012
I can't stand it when you invest your time in a book and it has a horrible ending. I slammed the book down and walked away with my hands in the air. I got the feeling that after 8 chapters describing the showdown at the cabin that the author was tired of writing the book and just wrapped it up in one. What? All that separation between the two main characters and you couldn't bring them back together in person? Ridiculous.
I really didn't know to whom this book catered - men or women? Odd to have a male write a romance which is a genre not typically read by men and it was too gory to be enjoyed by women. I don't know. It just seems like a huge waste of time.
I really didn't know to whom this book catered - men or women? Odd to have a male write a romance which is a genre not typically read by men and it was too gory to be enjoyed by women. I don't know. It just seems like a huge waste of time.
March 15, 2017
So... maybe I just don't recommend this book for women. I myself found it to be rather gruesome and disgusting at times. There was a woman murderer who seemed a little sick in her mind, and a man who had to shoot her in the head in order to save lives. I don't know. I just couldn't quite stomach that. So yeah, it's probably more of a guy's book. Or perhaps its just that murders, mystery, and forced-killing aren't really my thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2012
Oh my, I couldn't wait to finish this book! It felt like it took a lifetime to accomplish that. The book started out okay, but it just dragged and was so boring all the way to the end. I must have missed the memo on this being a Christian book because if I had to read any more prayers or psalms, I was going to go crazy! I had to skip over paragraph after paragraph of preachers and praying, it was totally overboard with that. Even as a free download, I don't recommend it.
April 26, 2011
Wonderful book. Loved the way the author delved into the center of so many different characters. You feel as if you are really becoming a part of Riverbend and getting to know everyone. The end just leaves you wanting more - kind of a cliffhanger, but not horribly so. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
July 27, 2011
The author does a great job setting up the characters and giving each one a different personalities. It was great to see the characters grow and develop throughout the book. For me the ending could have been better, but the other parts were well laid out and told so the reader could actually visualize what was happening.
July 30, 2012
Henry's debut novel drew me in form the first sentence and kept me turning the pages. A western with so much more. I actually felt compassion for the villains in this tale of forgiveness and reconciliation. Can't wait to read the sequel.
August 27, 2016
I had a hard time with this book. I wanted to like it and it had some good points but there just seemed to be so much violence and evil for this to be a Christian genre book. And then it just seemed to end with not really any real resolutions.
April 6, 2014
The author brings characters to life. I missed them all after I finished the book. Though the cover indicates romance (and there is one), this is a shoot-em-up western filled with tension and excitement. I recommend Journey to Riverbend.
April 15, 2011
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. ~ Matthew 28:20 (NIV)
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” ~ Matthew 9:2b (NIV)
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” ~ Matthew 9:2b (NIV)
June 9, 2011
on Tyndales summer reading program, first book in progress.
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August 3, 2011A debut novel that I really enjoyed!
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