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A Gift Of God

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TWO Very Different Women
ONE Suprising Friendship


JENNA is slim, smart and sophisticated and has cultivated the fine art of flirting. When her long-standing relationship ends, she makes a fresh start in a new town at a new firm of attorneys as the Personal Assistant to the Director. Yet underneath her confidant front she hides an aching insecurity, which drives her determination to capture a man who has more class and stature than the previous one. A man who will appreciate her and all she has to offer.

DOLLY is a deeply caring woman who is devoted to her husband of almost twelve years and committed to being a stay-at-home mother to her two young sons. But despite her love in action, there is a growing rift between her and her husband for which she can find no reason. In her search for answers, she comes face to face with her own weaknesses and the need for change.

Their yearning for friendship brings them together - until their choices and circumstances push them apart.

This is a story about the pain of rejection, the anger of denied desires and the peace that comes when we find God’s purpose.

Set in the city of Durban, South Africa, against a backdrop of cultural differences, crime and the extraordinary beauty of the coastal port, DOLLY and JENNA find answers and solutions in the all-knowing, all-loving God.




BRENDA is a high-school teacher of Biology and General Science, having majored in Biology and Psychology. She was born and raised in the suburbs of Durban, South Africa, where Brenda and her husband now reside. Her greatest joy is found in her family, her friends and her Saviour, Jesus Christ.




Find out more at www.brendabishop.com

388 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 6, 2017

5 people are currently reading
11 people want to read

About the author

Brenda Bishop

1 book13 followers
Brenda has always had a passion for education and from a young age she determined that she would become a teacher. Her enthusiasm carried her through to earn a Bachelor of Science degree plus a Higher Education diploma which qualified her to teach high school biology which she enjoyed for several years. She chose psychology as her second major subject and the knowledge she gained, together with her counselling experience and her own life circumstances, formed the foundation for the depth and intensity she brings to the thoughts and emotions of her characters and their relationships. After spending most of her life amidst the natural beauty and rich culture of South Africa, she followed the call of God to the green farmlands of Norfolk, England. Her greatest joy is in her relationship with Jesus, her Redeemer, and with her two daughters and their families.

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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
7 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2023
lovely story about love and forgiveness

I was hooked from the first page, wanting to know how Dorothy and Leo were going to overcome their difficulties. I loved the story of forgiveness and how two people managed to find their way back to each other with God’s help.
Profile Image for Chrystal Gilkey.
Author 4 books16 followers
March 19, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the character development of Jana and Leo and felt like I had just taken a trip to South Africa! A beautiful story of forgiveness and redemption!
Profile Image for Vida Sik.
Author 27 books87 followers
October 25, 2024
Compelling story about love, forgiveness, friendship and the power of prayer
Dorothy and Leo's marriage is in turmoil. As they grapple with heartache and uncertainty, they lean on family and friends for support. However, the arrival of Jenna, a work colleague, complicates their journey toward reconciliation.

When Leo moves out, Dorothy’s once-predictable life is thrown into chaos. She faces the daunting challenges of single parenting while searching for her identity and self-worth. Her life traps and strained relationship with her mother are pitfalls in her search for happiness.

Leo’s selfishness puts pressure on his marriage and impacts his connections with his brother and father. Meanwhile, Jenna’s quest for love could backfire, forcing her to confront her emotional pitfalls before she can find true happiness.

Set in the vibrant city of Durban, South Africa, this powerful story explores themes of identity, second chances, and the importance of community and accountability. If you enjoy tales with flawed characters, resilient women, and the transformative power of faith, forgiveness, prayer and friendship, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Angela Gold.
Author 2 books16 followers
September 25, 2024
A Gift of God: A Christian Contemporary Women's Fiction novel set in South Africa delves into the complexities of love, betrayal and forgiveness without the usual villains. The imperfect characters navigate through errors in judgement in their pursuit of love and respect.

Amidst the chaos of raising two energetic young boys, the central couple's marriage has lost its spark. Their separation sends ripples through the entire family, particularly impacting their sons.

The subtitle clearly states this is a Christian Contemporary novel, so I expected and enjoyed the supportive Christian friends and Christian references throughout the story. The use of Afrikaans phrases and insights into South African lifestyle adds an enriching layer to the story.

Filled with second chances, the story demonstrates that mistakes don't define a person; it's their reactions that truly show who they are.

Transport yourself to Durban, South Africa without leaving your home while immersing yourself in this inspirational story.
Profile Image for Dawn Wallis.
10 reviews2 followers
December 14, 2023
A Gift of God chronicles the journeys of two women that find themselves at an unlikely crossroads. Surrounded by an interesting cast of supporting characters, the women seek answers and find hope. A realistic storyline of a troubled marriage is portrayed along with the anticipation of redemption. Themes of friendship, selflessness, integrity, and faith are woven together to create a memorable story. This book would be an ideal and meaningful read for a Christian book club.
549 reviews2 followers
November 4, 2023
Very slow and for me difficult to get interested in. I just never felt much for the main characters, except dislike for Leo
I gave up after 25%. I gave 3 stars to be generous, since it may have improved after I stopped reading.
Profile Image for Nancy Lavo.
Author 18 books35 followers
January 13, 2025
Bishop writes a well-paced novel. I was immediately engrossed in the storyline, cheering for the heroine on her journey of self-discovery as she overcomes obstacles and fights for her marriage. The strong Christian element is realistic and hope filled. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews

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