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A Life Intercepted
From New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin, when a man wins everything only to lose it, he recognizes the love of his life is the only thing worth having.
Twelve years ago Matthew "The Rocket" Rising had it all. Married to his high school sweetheart and graduating as one of the winningest quarterbacks in the history of college football, he was selected as the #1 pick in the NFL. But on the night of the draft, after reaching the pinnacle of success, he plummeted. Accused of a crime with irrefutable evidence, he lost everything--his career, his reputation, his freedom, and the love of his life.
Having served his sentence and never played a down of professional football, he walks out of prison with one goal--to win back his wife, Audrey, whom no one has seen since the trial. He returns to an unwelcoming reception from his hometown only to discover that Audrey has taken shelter from the media and the outside world at a convent.
As chance would have it, there she has found a young man with the ability to have the football career Matthew should have had. All he needs is the right coach. Though helping the boy means Matthew violates the conditions of his release and, if discovered, will be forced to return to prison for the rest of his life, he's willing to take this singular chance to prove his innocence and win back Audrey's love.
Twelve years ago Matthew "The Rocket" Rising had it all. Married to his high school sweetheart and graduating as one of the winningest quarterbacks in the history of college football, he was selected as the #1 pick in the NFL. But on the night of the draft, after reaching the pinnacle of success, he plummeted. Accused of a crime with irrefutable evidence, he lost everything--his career, his reputation, his freedom, and the love of his life.
Having served his sentence and never played a down of professional football, he walks out of prison with one goal--to win back his wife, Audrey, whom no one has seen since the trial. He returns to an unwelcoming reception from his hometown only to discover that Audrey has taken shelter from the media and the outside world at a convent.
As chance would have it, there she has found a young man with the ability to have the football career Matthew should have had. All he needs is the right coach. Though helping the boy means Matthew violates the conditions of his release and, if discovered, will be forced to return to prison for the rest of his life, he's willing to take this singular chance to prove his innocence and win back Audrey's love.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
1273 people are currently reading
5919 people want to read
About the author
Charles Martin
111 books9,418 followersCharles Martin is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author. He and his wife, Christy, live in Jacksonville, FL. Learn more at charlesmartinbooks.com; Instagram: @storiedcareer; X: @storiedcareer; Facebook: @Author.Charles.Martin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 976 reviews
September 6, 2014
A Life Intercepted by Charles Martin is a heartbreakingly poignant and incredibly riveting story about unconditional love and forgiveness. This engrossing novel is thought-provoking and moving and it carries an emotional and compelling message about selfless love and the restorative power of forgiveness.
From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, there are two constants in Matthew Rising's life: his deep and abiding love for his wife Audrey and his love for the game of football. His father instilled a love and understanding of the game and Matthew set and broke numerous records on his meteoric rise as a quarterback through high school and college. With Audrey at his side, Matthew is poised to begin his career as a NFL quarterback when he is arrested and quickly convicted for a heinous crime. Gaining an early release for good behavior, Matthew returns to his small hometown that has turned its back on him where he hopes to find Audrey and win back her love.
Matthew is humbled by his success and he always gives credit to his fellow teammates for their victories. He is adored by everyone in his hometown and they are quick to pay homage to the small town boy who made it big. When everything falls down around him, it is shocking how few people believe in his innocence and how fast that love and adulation turns to disgust and hatred. Despite this lack of faith from his supporters, Matthew worked through his anger early in his incarceration and after he is released from prison, he is not interested in proving his innocence. Instead he is focused on repairing his relationship with Audrey and he is willing to make any sacrifice to achieve his goal.
The depth of Matthew's character is demonstrated through not only his actions but his innermost thoughts as well. Thankfully, he is not portrayed as a perfect person without flaws. He still has lingering anger toward the person responsible for his downfall but he works hard to keep his negative emotions from taking over his life.
A Life Intercepted is written in first person through Matthew's perspective so all of the characters are filtered through his point of view. It is easy to see why he fell in love with Audrey and the fact that she was always his biggest cheerleader underscores how devastating a blow it is when she loses faith in him. But this limited viewpoint makes it difficult to understand how or why Audrey could believe the worst of someone who was never anything but genuinely kind, loving and giving no matter what the circumstances.
A Life Intercepted is an absolutely spellbinding novel with an unusual but believable storyline. While it occasionally gets a little bogged down with the technical aspects of football, this information is essential to the overall plot. The characters are multi-faceted and fully developed with all too human flaws and weaknesses. The overall story is incredibly fascinating and it is extremely tempting to read ahead to find out how the story ends. But it is well worth the wait because Charles Martin brings A Life Intercepted to a very heartfelt and emotional conclusion.
From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, there are two constants in Matthew Rising's life: his deep and abiding love for his wife Audrey and his love for the game of football. His father instilled a love and understanding of the game and Matthew set and broke numerous records on his meteoric rise as a quarterback through high school and college. With Audrey at his side, Matthew is poised to begin his career as a NFL quarterback when he is arrested and quickly convicted for a heinous crime. Gaining an early release for good behavior, Matthew returns to his small hometown that has turned its back on him where he hopes to find Audrey and win back her love.
Matthew is humbled by his success and he always gives credit to his fellow teammates for their victories. He is adored by everyone in his hometown and they are quick to pay homage to the small town boy who made it big. When everything falls down around him, it is shocking how few people believe in his innocence and how fast that love and adulation turns to disgust and hatred. Despite this lack of faith from his supporters, Matthew worked through his anger early in his incarceration and after he is released from prison, he is not interested in proving his innocence. Instead he is focused on repairing his relationship with Audrey and he is willing to make any sacrifice to achieve his goal.
The depth of Matthew's character is demonstrated through not only his actions but his innermost thoughts as well. Thankfully, he is not portrayed as a perfect person without flaws. He still has lingering anger toward the person responsible for his downfall but he works hard to keep his negative emotions from taking over his life.
A Life Intercepted is written in first person through Matthew's perspective so all of the characters are filtered through his point of view. It is easy to see why he fell in love with Audrey and the fact that she was always his biggest cheerleader underscores how devastating a blow it is when she loses faith in him. But this limited viewpoint makes it difficult to understand how or why Audrey could believe the worst of someone who was never anything but genuinely kind, loving and giving no matter what the circumstances.
A Life Intercepted is an absolutely spellbinding novel with an unusual but believable storyline. While it occasionally gets a little bogged down with the technical aspects of football, this information is essential to the overall plot. The characters are multi-faceted and fully developed with all too human flaws and weaknesses. The overall story is incredibly fascinating and it is extremely tempting to read ahead to find out how the story ends. But it is well worth the wait because Charles Martin brings A Life Intercepted to a very heartfelt and emotional conclusion.
January 24, 2015
Really liked this book---I think I like the author's personal story at the end as much as the book! A good read!
May 6, 2022
This was great. I am not a person who cares about football, at all, either, but this story was believable, engaging, heart tugging, and lovable by the end. I highly recommend it. I will also add that there were times that I was listing to this while I was folding laundry, and my hubby would come in and he would get engaged listening to the story too.
This is a story about the love of football, loving one's spouse, letting go of hatred, and ultimately forgiveness when it's not deserved. The ending author's notes really solidified this as a five-star read for me.
Sensitive topics explored:
Prison life
Date rape
Adultery
This is a story about the love of football, loving one's spouse, letting go of hatred, and ultimately forgiveness when it's not deserved. The ending author's notes really solidified this as a five-star read for me.
Sensitive topics explored:
Prison life
Date rape
Adultery
June 1, 2015
A thank you to Judy Collins for reccomending this book on GR! This why I love GR I would never read this book in a million years if for Judy's review. I have never read any of Charles Martin's books before, but it will not be my last!!! Grabbed me from the beginning and never let go. Great and powerful characters and tremendous story line. Again thank you Judy for bringing this book my attention!
September 5, 2015
I had a hard time with this one. There are parts that I really enjoyed, which is pretty rare for me and male authors. Then there are parts that were incredibly hard to swallow.
One of the biggest hurdles for me was connecting with and believing Audrey’s character. Someone who manages to earn her own nickname as a girlfriend or a spouse in the world of sports because of her support and defense of the guy she is with doesn’t work as the same person that breaks so easily or quickly when things get ugly. I felt this way about the fact that Matthew’s teammates also don’t stick by him and believe in him more. If you spend so much time and that closely with another person, you know their character and what they are capable of for the most part. When something so utterly outrageous occurs, even with the evidence provided, there is should be a whole lot more support there that what is presented in this book, especially from the wife.
The fact that the wife then only visits once while he is in prison, for 12 years, yet he stays loving and loyal to her when she didn’t stay by his side makes it all that much harder. Then, when the truth comes out, everything is all roses and light on both sides.
The entire story, no matter how well written and presented, runs along that ultra perfect line. The most perfect football career, perfect wife and then the everything is beautiful and perfect in the end with everyone able to forgive everything. The guy was sent to jail for 12 years and had his entire life destroyed. Sure, you have to be able to find peace with that on some level or it will eat you alive. The way it was presented here just didn’t work for me. Apparently, I’m not that forgiving of a person.
I also could have done without the football lessons. There is a level that is needed to understand the story and get the gist of what is going on, but a huge chunk of this could have easily been cut down. I ended up skimming over large portions because it started to feel like I was reading playbooks and primers on how to play football. Once you get to a certain level of that, it becomes tedious filler.
All of that said, this author has a way with words that really drags the reader in to what is going on. I was excited by the overall story, just not some of the specifics that round it out.
One of the biggest hurdles for me was connecting with and believing Audrey’s character. Someone who manages to earn her own nickname as a girlfriend or a spouse in the world of sports because of her support and defense of the guy she is with doesn’t work as the same person that breaks so easily or quickly when things get ugly. I felt this way about the fact that Matthew’s teammates also don’t stick by him and believe in him more. If you spend so much time and that closely with another person, you know their character and what they are capable of for the most part. When something so utterly outrageous occurs, even with the evidence provided, there is should be a whole lot more support there that what is presented in this book, especially from the wife.
The fact that the wife then only visits once while he is in prison, for 12 years, yet he stays loving and loyal to her when she didn’t stay by his side makes it all that much harder. Then, when the truth comes out, everything is all roses and light on both sides.
The entire story, no matter how well written and presented, runs along that ultra perfect line. The most perfect football career, perfect wife and then the everything is beautiful and perfect in the end with everyone able to forgive everything. The guy was sent to jail for 12 years and had his entire life destroyed. Sure, you have to be able to find peace with that on some level or it will eat you alive. The way it was presented here just didn’t work for me. Apparently, I’m not that forgiving of a person.
I also could have done without the football lessons. There is a level that is needed to understand the story and get the gist of what is going on, but a huge chunk of this could have easily been cut down. I ended up skimming over large portions because it started to feel like I was reading playbooks and primers on how to play football. Once you get to a certain level of that, it becomes tedious filler.
All of that said, this author has a way with words that really drags the reader in to what is going on. I was excited by the overall story, just not some of the specifics that round it out.
August 30, 2015
This was a wonderful book! It is a story of love, loss, and forgiveness. It was poignant at times, completely heartbreaking at others. It was one of the most touching books I've read in awhile, which is something I seem to always be able to say about Martin's books. He is such a spectacular storyteller! In this one, he again created great characters that I felt very invested in, an intriguing storyline, and a compelling setting.
Matthew Rising had it all as a young college graduate. He had a supportive wife that he loved utterly, the promise of a spectacular career in the NFL, and the adoration of the nation. After being accused of a horrible crime, he lost it all. Twelve years later he is released from prison on parole and returns to his hometown, hoping to find his wife, Audrey, who disappeared shortly after he was incarcerated. When he runs across Audrey, even though she seems filled with hate for him, she asks Matthew to coach a talented teenager whose only hope of going to college is a football scholarship. Knowing that being near the young man, Dee, can send him back to prison, Matthew will still do anything for Audrey.
Charles Martin is a favorite author for me, and this book is a good example of the reason. It was very emotionally intense, and made me laugh and cry. Even though it had quite a bit about football, which I know virtually nothing about, that didn't affect my enjoyment. There were a couple of times when I felt lost for a paragraph or two during the more technical football parts, but the wonderful story more than made up for that. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.
Matthew Rising had it all as a young college graduate. He had a supportive wife that he loved utterly, the promise of a spectacular career in the NFL, and the adoration of the nation. After being accused of a horrible crime, he lost it all. Twelve years later he is released from prison on parole and returns to his hometown, hoping to find his wife, Audrey, who disappeared shortly after he was incarcerated. When he runs across Audrey, even though she seems filled with hate for him, she asks Matthew to coach a talented teenager whose only hope of going to college is a football scholarship. Knowing that being near the young man, Dee, can send him back to prison, Matthew will still do anything for Audrey.
Charles Martin is a favorite author for me, and this book is a good example of the reason. It was very emotionally intense, and made me laugh and cry. Even though it had quite a bit about football, which I know virtually nothing about, that didn't affect my enjoyment. There were a couple of times when I felt lost for a paragraph or two during the more technical football parts, but the wonderful story more than made up for that. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 1, 2022
Matthew (the Rocket) Rising is a football juggernaut: smashed high school records, two Heisman Trophies, three national championships, but his world comes crashing down after he arrested for drugging and having sex with underage prostitutes after being selected first in the NFL draft. Despite his professed innocence and lack of memory, he is convicted and serves 12 years in prison. The whole world abandons him, including his #1 fan, his wife Audrey. Only his center remains true. Upon his release, he heads back to the only home he has ever known, Gardi, Georgia, where Audrey is working at a Catholic school, and asks Matthew to help a high school quarterback, who has much talent, but is having physical and confidence problems. This is clearly a violation of his parole, but Matthew cannot refuse her because of his undying love. Like his other books, his characters are complex, carrying a lot of emotional baggage, but Matthew's heart is pure even in the light of other's dark hearts and hatred.
November 19, 2021
I decided to read this contemporary romance because it involved football and I’ve recently discovered the author (read his nonfiction book). I loved all the football talk in the book…perfect for the fall season. I liked the development of the characters as the story progressed. The redemption, grace, and love displayed in the book was touching. The Author’s Note at the end was really good as he mentions his faith. (I had expected more faith after reading his nonfiction, but this book is about 8 years old.) As the main character was coaching a high school player he emphasized loving the game instead of the fame. Playing from the heart and not the head. I enjoyed reading about how he coached him to become a QB team leader. I appreciated the line “the heart of football is the huddle”. I do like the style of Charles Martin’s writing and can see me reading more of his fiction.
October 2, 2016
A Life Intercepted by Charles Martin is a deeply moving and powerful story of big dreams— lost and found, unwavering faith, hope and forgiveness; one of never ending love, and redemption. “Love did what hatred could not and never will.”
South Georgia, 34-yr old Matthew Rising “Rocket” loves football and has made his way to fame, by hard work, drive, and determination. With two Heisman trophies, top NFL draft pick, TV appearances, financial security, front covers, a town who loves him, offering the key to the city— with roads, and children named after him, and best of all his supportive and strong best cheerleader wife, Audrey by his side.
However, when he leaves his New York hotel room the night of the draft, to get to the gym at 3am, for training, everything in his world comes crashing down, and he loses it all. Accused of a horrible crime, an enemy, a lost memory, and evidence which sends his promising career, his celebrity status, his wife, and his entire life in a downward spiral to the inside of a prison, losing everything.
Having served twelve long years in prison, he is out to win back his wife, Audrey. As a sex-offender status, he definitely has challenges, making the transition back to the same hometown, as the hero who has lost his crown.
With former agent /best friend -Woody, a former coach-Ray, a beaten dog-Tux, a troubled teen football player, Dee who needs his help, and a wife hiding away in a convent yearning for the truth, Matthew may just stand a chance, against all odds.
Although helping the boy means Matthew violates the conditions of his release and–if discovered–he will go back to prison for life, he’ll take the chance with the hope of winning back Audrey’s love. “When a man wins everything only to lose it, he recognizes the love of his life is the only thing worth having.”
A Life Intercepted, narrated by Matt, is a combination of Jerry Maguire, The Blindside, and Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook, with an uncanny and unique style only Charles Martin can bring! (the video even brought chill bumps).
Football fans will devour and appreciate the wit and commentary. (Loved the doves and its symbolic meaning and Martin’s poetic-like prose. Funny, Ginger’s character reminds me of Nichole Kidman in Jerry Maguire).
When I read my first book by Charles Martin, years ago, I knew he would be one of my favorite authors, from Chasing Fireflies, and Crickets Don’t Cry—having now read all ten of his books—each including a life lesson, with a thought-provoking take-away.
Loved the inspiration behind the novel (included at the end of the novel) and the video trailer. A message to his own son, and best friend, failures of our idols and the need for forgiveness, especially when so undeserved.
Charles Martin, a master storyteller, uses strong women, and flawed characters, as he writes from the heart, and skillfully crafts a captivating novel of unconditional love, inner strength, and forgiveness. Martin cleverly uses the game of football as it relates to the game of life and love.
“Hatred is a commodity I couldn’t afford in prison. Too expensive then. To Expensive now.”
From the stunning front cover to the end, A Life Intercepted grabs you by the heart and hooks you to the end. Movie worthy! Martin's writing is up there with the "best of the best" for a winning touchdown!
JDCMustReadBooks
TOP 30 BOOKS OF 2014
South Georgia, 34-yr old Matthew Rising “Rocket” loves football and has made his way to fame, by hard work, drive, and determination. With two Heisman trophies, top NFL draft pick, TV appearances, financial security, front covers, a town who loves him, offering the key to the city— with roads, and children named after him, and best of all his supportive and strong best cheerleader wife, Audrey by his side.
However, when he leaves his New York hotel room the night of the draft, to get to the gym at 3am, for training, everything in his world comes crashing down, and he loses it all. Accused of a horrible crime, an enemy, a lost memory, and evidence which sends his promising career, his celebrity status, his wife, and his entire life in a downward spiral to the inside of a prison, losing everything.
Having served twelve long years in prison, he is out to win back his wife, Audrey. As a sex-offender status, he definitely has challenges, making the transition back to the same hometown, as the hero who has lost his crown.
With former agent /best friend -Woody, a former coach-Ray, a beaten dog-Tux, a troubled teen football player, Dee who needs his help, and a wife hiding away in a convent yearning for the truth, Matthew may just stand a chance, against all odds.
Although helping the boy means Matthew violates the conditions of his release and–if discovered–he will go back to prison for life, he’ll take the chance with the hope of winning back Audrey’s love. “When a man wins everything only to lose it, he recognizes the love of his life is the only thing worth having.”
A Life Intercepted, narrated by Matt, is a combination of Jerry Maguire, The Blindside, and Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook, with an uncanny and unique style only Charles Martin can bring! (the video even brought chill bumps).
Football fans will devour and appreciate the wit and commentary. (Loved the doves and its symbolic meaning and Martin’s poetic-like prose. Funny, Ginger’s character reminds me of Nichole Kidman in Jerry Maguire).
When I read my first book by Charles Martin, years ago, I knew he would be one of my favorite authors, from Chasing Fireflies, and Crickets Don’t Cry—having now read all ten of his books—each including a life lesson, with a thought-provoking take-away.
Loved the inspiration behind the novel (included at the end of the novel) and the video trailer. A message to his own son, and best friend, failures of our idols and the need for forgiveness, especially when so undeserved.
Charles Martin, a master storyteller, uses strong women, and flawed characters, as he writes from the heart, and skillfully crafts a captivating novel of unconditional love, inner strength, and forgiveness. Martin cleverly uses the game of football as it relates to the game of life and love.
“My favorite moment in the game occurs in the huddle when the faces behind those face masks are all staring back at me. Silently, intently, asking me what I’m prepared to do. Amid their pain and sweat and often the reality of getting their tails kicked, they want to know if they can believe in me. If I’m worth their hope. Strip away all the exterior polish, the gloss, the commentary, and the conversations, and that’s the wonder, majesty, and magnificence that is the game we call football. The ones I love need to hear something from me, and what they need to hear is not where things went wrong, not where something could have happened that didn’t, but what I know to be true.” Page 267
“Hatred is a commodity I couldn’t afford in prison. Too expensive then. To Expensive now.”
From the stunning front cover to the end, A Life Intercepted grabs you by the heart and hooks you to the end. Movie worthy! Martin's writing is up there with the "best of the best" for a winning touchdown!
JDCMustReadBooks
TOP 30 BOOKS OF 2014
September 16, 2023
A book that definitely holds your interest. Intrigue,
Injustice, lies, abuse, revenge, redemption.
Also Love, trust, marriage, family, friendship and faith .
An ending that I didn’t see coming.
A couple of things seemed a little too coincidental but not enough to change the good parts of this book.
There is a lot of football terminology I follow football and have a family member in the NFL so I enjoyed these references. If you are not a sports fan you might need to read over some places.
The book was a really good and though provoking read.
4.5
Injustice, lies, abuse, revenge, redemption.
Also Love, trust, marriage, family, friendship and faith .
An ending that I didn’t see coming.
A couple of things seemed a little too coincidental but not enough to change the good parts of this book.
There is a lot of football terminology I follow football and have a family member in the NFL so I enjoyed these references. If you are not a sports fan you might need to read over some places.
The book was a really good and though provoking read.
4.5
November 22, 2014
"A Life Intercepted" by Charles Martin is a good sports story about a former star quarterback who trains a high school player, while facing a brutal press and an unforgiving public.
Matthew Rising was an up and coming quarterback superstar poised to have an incredible football career. His impending superstardom, however, is derailed when he is accused and ultimately found guilty of sexual assault. Rising denies the accusation and has never given up proclaiming his innocence.
When the story opens, Rising is about to be let out of prison and returns to his old hometown to look for his wife, who he has not seen since he was sentenced. He is forsaken by many of his old friends, forced to wear an ankle monitor, and had to register as a sex offender. Rising is also battling an old high school student, who has never forgiven him for rejecting her. Now a media personality, she has it in for Rising.
Meanwhile, in town, Dalton Rodgers, a 17 year old football player is watching film of Rising's best games with Sister Lynn, who has raised him. Rodgers was an up and coming high school star until a new coach changed his throwing motion and he lost his starting position.
These three people will meet soon enough and Rising will take on the job of helping Rodgers to regain his throwing motion.
Rising will face many challenges in his old town, not the least of which is winning back his wife and life. But there is little doubt how the story will turn out.
While the story, message and the villain in this inspirational tale are as obvious as the nose on your face, there is plenty of football action for any sports fan.
Its a very decent sports story. While there is a inspirational message, it does not interfere with one's enjoyment of this football story.
Matthew Rising was an up and coming quarterback superstar poised to have an incredible football career. His impending superstardom, however, is derailed when he is accused and ultimately found guilty of sexual assault. Rising denies the accusation and has never given up proclaiming his innocence.
When the story opens, Rising is about to be let out of prison and returns to his old hometown to look for his wife, who he has not seen since he was sentenced. He is forsaken by many of his old friends, forced to wear an ankle monitor, and had to register as a sex offender. Rising is also battling an old high school student, who has never forgiven him for rejecting her. Now a media personality, she has it in for Rising.
Meanwhile, in town, Dalton Rodgers, a 17 year old football player is watching film of Rising's best games with Sister Lynn, who has raised him. Rodgers was an up and coming high school star until a new coach changed his throwing motion and he lost his starting position.
These three people will meet soon enough and Rising will take on the job of helping Rodgers to regain his throwing motion.
Rising will face many challenges in his old town, not the least of which is winning back his wife and life. But there is little doubt how the story will turn out.
While the story, message and the villain in this inspirational tale are as obvious as the nose on your face, there is plenty of football action for any sports fan.
Its a very decent sports story. While there is a inspirational message, it does not interfere with one's enjoyment of this football story.
June 7, 2018
Where to begin? Hmm. Well, first of all the ending and the author’s notes were the best part of this story. Matthew and Dee’s relationship was the second best thing about this story.
Matthew Rising spent 12 years in prison. Upon his release the only thing he wants to do is find his wife to try to rebuild their “flawless” relationship. Let’s see, he was in prison because there was a lot of damning evidence regarding the heinous crime he committed the night before being signed to the NFL. Really? Is he that stupid? Really, Audrey, you have no faith in your husband? You know him better than anyone. You stood side stood by when he was the celebrated football star? Ok, the accusation was big, but have some faith in him...
When Matthew returns to his home town, disgraced and alone, he does find his wife. She’s befriended a boy who is a talented high school football player, Dee. She coerces Matthew into coaching him even though it would violate his parole. He agrees.
The whole characterization of Audrey is so ridiculous, it doesn’t make sense. She was his rock during all the football games, trainings blah blah during the end of high school and college. However, she folds so fast and so monumentally that you, the reader, can’t conceive these characters are the same people. She turns back on a dime when the truth comes out. What? Just not believable. Also, the main character, Matthew, is seemingly too good.
There are moments of great writing, but you have to filter through the football teachings and implausibility to get there.
Matthew Rising spent 12 years in prison. Upon his release the only thing he wants to do is find his wife to try to rebuild their “flawless” relationship. Let’s see, he was in prison because there was a lot of damning evidence regarding the heinous crime he committed the night before being signed to the NFL. Really? Is he that stupid? Really, Audrey, you have no faith in your husband? You know him better than anyone. You stood side stood by when he was the celebrated football star? Ok, the accusation was big, but have some faith in him...
When Matthew returns to his home town, disgraced and alone, he does find his wife. She’s befriended a boy who is a talented high school football player, Dee. She coerces Matthew into coaching him even though it would violate his parole. He agrees.
The whole characterization of Audrey is so ridiculous, it doesn’t make sense. She was his rock during all the football games, trainings blah blah during the end of high school and college. However, she folds so fast and so monumentally that you, the reader, can’t conceive these characters are the same people. She turns back on a dime when the truth comes out. What? Just not believable. Also, the main character, Matthew, is seemingly too good.
There are moments of great writing, but you have to filter through the football teachings and implausibility to get there.
April 27, 2019
I love it when a book about football is actually about football - strategy, mechanics, the actual playing of the game. That's where this book shines. If you love football you'll love that.
And as usual, Martin's characters are nothing short of wonderful. Flawed, human, and you care deeply about each one. Even the bad guys are somewhat sympathetic.
In this story, I did have a couple of hiccups. First off, why wouldn't an attorney defending such a high-profile client like Matthew do some deeper research into the night in question? Seems like it was a little too open and shut for my liking, which took a bit away from the realism. And although he was an angry convict, he did nothing to appeal or fight in any way against his conviction.
But that didn't sway my opinion from this story being a great one. Martin just has a way of creating realistic characters and situations. While I wish there had been more of a bang with the ending here (a little justice served, please) I think opting for forgiveness and a broader view was probably the better choice.
Kevin Stillwell is brilliant with the audiobook narration; I hope he'll be Martin's chosen narrator from here on.
And as usual, Martin's characters are nothing short of wonderful. Flawed, human, and you care deeply about each one. Even the bad guys are somewhat sympathetic.
In this story, I did have a couple of hiccups. First off, why wouldn't an attorney defending such a high-profile client like Matthew do some deeper research into the night in question? Seems like it was a little too open and shut for my liking, which took a bit away from the realism. And although he was an angry convict, he did nothing to appeal or fight in any way against his conviction.
But that didn't sway my opinion from this story being a great one. Martin just has a way of creating realistic characters and situations. While I wish there had been more of a bang with the ending here (a little justice served, please) I think opting for forgiveness and a broader view was probably the better choice.
Kevin Stillwell is brilliant with the audiobook narration; I hope he'll be Martin's chosen narrator from here on.
September 26, 2014
4.5 I really like Charles Martin's novels. This is a story about a quarterback & the love of his life. At the height of his football career, he is wrongly accused of a terrible crime, and sent to prison. When released, he mentors a young football player, risking violating his parole. I felt so bad for all he went through and how horrible and judgmental people can be. This book has a lot of football lingo, but even if you don't love the sport, you will love the story of love and redemption.
September 5, 2020
Charles Martin is becoming one of my favorite authors! He writes stories from a perspective of the world that I hold - that we’re all wounded, we all wound others and we’re all in need of redemption. I appreciate the battle raging inside the characters and their fight to take the better path! A big thank you to any and every person that encouraged Charles to write!
This book, like the others is a story that was hard to put down!
This book, like the others is a story that was hard to put down!
February 28, 2023
I had this as a solid 4⭐️s because it’s a really good book with a fantastic message of not letting hatred ruin your life. And then I read the author’s note at the end. I could not love that part any more. It’s so open and moving.
July 24, 2022
Well written and fast paced, I liked it even though I'm not a football fan.
April 20, 2015
Charles Martin is an author I've long admired. Beautiful, fantastic prose. I swear the guy labors endlessly over certain paragraphs until every word is perfectly placed. Or made it's effortless. Either way, it's beautiful and I always find myself stopping to soak in his amazing prose.
Ah, but with Charles ... There's always more. So much more. His characters are so true to life. Yet bigger than life. A perfect blend. And the way he writes male characters you can't help but think he's a super romantic man himself. His leading men always have such intense devotion to their beloved lady's and I love how they always pay attention to the details. Subtle little nuances. Charles writes these things with such delicacy that you forget these characters are fake.
Okay. We covered prose and characterization. What's next?
The story, of course. Charles has a knack for layering plots that squeeze your tear ducts and cleanse your dry eyes. He never fails in that department. This story line wasn't my most favorite. I am a football fan to a degree. But not a large degree. If I'm gonna like football though, it's gonna be in this romanticized way Charles views and writes about it. Which is why I could handle it in this particular book. Or maybe I just biased toward Charles as a writer. But I love even those small little details, like the descriptions of the ball being gently tossed from one hand to another during practice. Or the nostalgic childhood view of playing catch. Those things are beautiful. Yes, football can be beautiful and Charles makes you understand why.
The redemptive ending was just beautiful. I mean, stunning. I loved it. Still, my favorite is Crickets, but I love everything this guy writes and I WISH paperbacks would come out at the same time as ebooks. It's almoat blasphemous to have electronic versions of an author like this. These are the types of books that deserve to be touched and smelled and savored and cherished among other classics a worn shelf. But alas, I loved it. Everything about it.
He's my favorite writer BY FAR and I can't recommend him enough. Seriously. If you like poetic, thoughtful reads and are excited when you hear the words "slow-paced," then try a Charles Martin book. If you're looking for something fast-paced, modern, and ... NOT timeless ... Turn away. This isn't the guy for you. This is a classic novelist in the making. A hidden gem.
Movies yet??? Come on!!!!
Ah, but with Charles ... There's always more. So much more. His characters are so true to life. Yet bigger than life. A perfect blend. And the way he writes male characters you can't help but think he's a super romantic man himself. His leading men always have such intense devotion to their beloved lady's and I love how they always pay attention to the details. Subtle little nuances. Charles writes these things with such delicacy that you forget these characters are fake.
Okay. We covered prose and characterization. What's next?
The story, of course. Charles has a knack for layering plots that squeeze your tear ducts and cleanse your dry eyes. He never fails in that department. This story line wasn't my most favorite. I am a football fan to a degree. But not a large degree. If I'm gonna like football though, it's gonna be in this romanticized way Charles views and writes about it. Which is why I could handle it in this particular book. Or maybe I just biased toward Charles as a writer. But I love even those small little details, like the descriptions of the ball being gently tossed from one hand to another during practice. Or the nostalgic childhood view of playing catch. Those things are beautiful. Yes, football can be beautiful and Charles makes you understand why.
The redemptive ending was just beautiful. I mean, stunning. I loved it. Still, my favorite is Crickets, but I love everything this guy writes and I WISH paperbacks would come out at the same time as ebooks. It's almoat blasphemous to have electronic versions of an author like this. These are the types of books that deserve to be touched and smelled and savored and cherished among other classics a worn shelf. But alas, I loved it. Everything about it.
He's my favorite writer BY FAR and I can't recommend him enough. Seriously. If you like poetic, thoughtful reads and are excited when you hear the words "slow-paced," then try a Charles Martin book. If you're looking for something fast-paced, modern, and ... NOT timeless ... Turn away. This isn't the guy for you. This is a classic novelist in the making. A hidden gem.
Movies yet??? Come on!!!!
December 20, 2016
This is a book that was recommended to me by a dear friend, and I can see why he enjoyed it as much as he did. The prose is phenomenal. The story is emotionally touching. The book certainly keeps your attention after about the first 40 pages or so.
But this is a really dreadful book. Wildly unrealistic, often factually incorrect, and just cheesy to an extreme I've never encountered before. Perhaps the author doesn't follow the NFL much, but to think that a man who spent 12 years in prison would then be named a team's starting quarterback WITH LESS THAN A MONTH TO GO BEFORE THE SEASON STARTS is plain silly. Heck, NFL training camps open about 7 weeks before the regular season opens. Oh, and the NFL elected to hold a special combine just for this guy? And his wife/girlfriend managed to sneak onto the field at the college football national championship unnoticed, sprint out onto the field untouched by security, and level a collegiate linebacker who was wearing full game attire? Umm...no. Stop. Please.
This was a cutesy book that lacked real depth. It was a football chick flick, basically. A weird combo, but that's the only comparison I can make. Maybe I'm too harsh and expect a little more from my books, but this was one of the worst reads I've had all year.
But this is a really dreadful book. Wildly unrealistic, often factually incorrect, and just cheesy to an extreme I've never encountered before. Perhaps the author doesn't follow the NFL much, but to think that a man who spent 12 years in prison would then be named a team's starting quarterback WITH LESS THAN A MONTH TO GO BEFORE THE SEASON STARTS is plain silly. Heck, NFL training camps open about 7 weeks before the regular season opens. Oh, and the NFL elected to hold a special combine just for this guy? And his wife/girlfriend managed to sneak onto the field at the college football national championship unnoticed, sprint out onto the field untouched by security, and level a collegiate linebacker who was wearing full game attire? Umm...no. Stop. Please.
This was a cutesy book that lacked real depth. It was a football chick flick, basically. A weird combo, but that's the only comparison I can make. Maybe I'm too harsh and expect a little more from my books, but this was one of the worst reads I've had all year.
June 14, 2014
I have read everything Charles Martin has written but was greatly disappointed in his last book "Unwritten". In Unwritten I could not emphasize with the characters. In his new book A Life Intercepted due out late summer/early fall he is back on my must read list. Except for the football theme which is a major part of the book Martin has once again written a story where the characters are strong, well developed, make big mistakes and find a way to make it right again. One could go as far as saying that many times life if like football.
July 20, 2019
Love love love this book. Charles Martin's writing is just beautiful. I listened to the entire book on a 12-hour trip and it made the trip go very quickly. If you like redemption books, read this one.
September 2, 2018
Great book. Couldn’t put it down. I was bawling for the last couple of chapters. What can I say, I’m a sucker for the underdog. Really enjoyed it! Might just have to start another book, the long weekend is only half over.
January 26, 2025
Such an inspiring story! Lover Charles Martin’s note at the end.😭
January 10, 2024
I enjoyed reading it but some of the story line was too unbelievable for me to give it 4 stars. It is well-written, in my opinion. I was very glad I read the Author's Note at the end.
September 5, 2014
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://tinyurl.com/m2sj45q
After reading A Life Intercepted, I'm kicking myself for not having read any of Charles Martin's ten novels before now. His style of writing and the quality of his prose alone propel this story to the top tier of books that I've enjoyed. And then there's the story itself: well crafted, poignant, riveting, emotional, compelling, and more. A Life Intercepted is a story of the fallen hero, broken relationships, effort to win back what was lost, and a final sweet redemption that is so inspirational and satisfying to read.
The story is told in the first-person voice of Matthew, and begins as he is released on parole after serving his sentence for a crime he denies committing, and returns to his south Georgia hometown of Gardi. I love it when an author enables me to "see" the setting, and being somewhat familiar with small southern towns like Gardi, I can say that Charles has done that exceedingly well. One example is this description of the shade tobacco barn on the property where Matthew is staying: "The aroma of manure, tobacco, earth, and turpentine, delivered in the suffocating packaging of humidity and heat . . ." But even more vivid than that is the government-owned graveyard that contained something that features prominently in the story, "the Bucket" - a scalable mound of dirt "mixed with bumpers, hood ornaments, truck bumpers, and old Fords that became affectionately referred to as 'Rust Bucket Mountain.'"
Matthew and Audrey are complex characters and I was emotionally drawn to them from the beginning. It was so easy to connect with them through a range of feelings - anger over his wrongful conviction, inability to prove his innocence against irrefutable evidence, the heartbreak of betrayal, loss of life's dream, and a willingness to risk it all in helping a young athlete. There's also a great cast of secondary characters - agent and friend Wood, prison guard Gage, and Coach Ray. I especially liked the way Wood never withdrew his friendship and faithfully visited Matthew in prison, in spite of doubts he must have had. Matthew reflects that Wood "couldn't stop my soul from cracking in half, but once a month he sutured it shut. How I love that man."
There's a good bit about football in this story - and I'm not a sports fan - but it was important to the story and actually very interesting. In fact, while football fans will love it, this is more of the character-driven type of story that I enjoy. And never again will I think of quarterbacks as merely guys with a talent for throwing the ball.
A Life Intercepted feels like a story from the heart of Charles Martin. While some may think the spiritual themes are understated, the overarching message of redemption, forgiveness, and love speaks strongly - and I kept wondering how I would have reacted in a similar situation. Charles states in the author's note at the end: "Forgiveness offered - especially when so undeserved - cuts chains off the human heart that no other power in any universe anywhere can rattle, much less break. . . . Love did what hatred could not and never will."
I thoroughly enjoyed A Life Intercepted and will be reading more books by Charles Martin. 5 stars, highly recommended.
Thank you to Katie Connors and Center Street for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
After reading A Life Intercepted, I'm kicking myself for not having read any of Charles Martin's ten novels before now. His style of writing and the quality of his prose alone propel this story to the top tier of books that I've enjoyed. And then there's the story itself: well crafted, poignant, riveting, emotional, compelling, and more. A Life Intercepted is a story of the fallen hero, broken relationships, effort to win back what was lost, and a final sweet redemption that is so inspirational and satisfying to read.
The story is told in the first-person voice of Matthew, and begins as he is released on parole after serving his sentence for a crime he denies committing, and returns to his south Georgia hometown of Gardi. I love it when an author enables me to "see" the setting, and being somewhat familiar with small southern towns like Gardi, I can say that Charles has done that exceedingly well. One example is this description of the shade tobacco barn on the property where Matthew is staying: "The aroma of manure, tobacco, earth, and turpentine, delivered in the suffocating packaging of humidity and heat . . ." But even more vivid than that is the government-owned graveyard that contained something that features prominently in the story, "the Bucket" - a scalable mound of dirt "mixed with bumpers, hood ornaments, truck bumpers, and old Fords that became affectionately referred to as 'Rust Bucket Mountain.'"
Matthew and Audrey are complex characters and I was emotionally drawn to them from the beginning. It was so easy to connect with them through a range of feelings - anger over his wrongful conviction, inability to prove his innocence against irrefutable evidence, the heartbreak of betrayal, loss of life's dream, and a willingness to risk it all in helping a young athlete. There's also a great cast of secondary characters - agent and friend Wood, prison guard Gage, and Coach Ray. I especially liked the way Wood never withdrew his friendship and faithfully visited Matthew in prison, in spite of doubts he must have had. Matthew reflects that Wood "couldn't stop my soul from cracking in half, but once a month he sutured it shut. How I love that man."
There's a good bit about football in this story - and I'm not a sports fan - but it was important to the story and actually very interesting. In fact, while football fans will love it, this is more of the character-driven type of story that I enjoy. And never again will I think of quarterbacks as merely guys with a talent for throwing the ball.
A Life Intercepted feels like a story from the heart of Charles Martin. While some may think the spiritual themes are understated, the overarching message of redemption, forgiveness, and love speaks strongly - and I kept wondering how I would have reacted in a similar situation. Charles states in the author's note at the end: "Forgiveness offered - especially when so undeserved - cuts chains off the human heart that no other power in any universe anywhere can rattle, much less break. . . . Love did what hatred could not and never will."
I thoroughly enjoyed A Life Intercepted and will be reading more books by Charles Martin. 5 stars, highly recommended.
Thank you to Katie Connors and Center Street for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 14, 2017
SUMMARY
Matthew "the Rocket" Rising's life was not only intercepted, it was ruined. Twelve years ago, Matthew had it all, love, friends, and notoriety for being the winningest quarterback in college football. He was the number one NFL draft pick, and had made lots of people happy. Almost everyone loved him. Almost everyone. But on the night of the draft his glory days came to an abrupt end. He was accused of a heinous sex crime and the evidence was irrefutable. Having served his time, he is now being released from Wiregrass Prison, in southwestern Georgia.
With no one at the prison gates to meet him, Matthew hitchhikes directly back to Gardi, Georgia, his hometown. He has one objective in mind, to find his wife and win back her love. His return to Gardi was met with open hostility and hatred from his beloved community. No one including his wife Audrey wanted him there.
Audrey, who also lost everything twelve years ago, has taken refuge from the press and the community, at the local Catholic school. There she discovered a young orphan, Dillion Rogers. Audrey mentors Dillion to the best of her ability. As Dillion grows to be a talented young man she realizes he potentially has the talent to achieve the football career that Matthew never had. But she knows he will needs a good coach. And then Matthew shows up. But helping Dillon means violating Matthews parole. Should Matthew take that risk? What if it is the only way to win back Audrey's love?
REVIEW
A heart wrenching story of the implosion of a life, the loss of a love, the fight for redemption and undeserved forgiveness. This book will have you thinking about it long after you close the back cover. Matthew Rising has been through quite an ordeal. But his values, his hopes, and his love unbelievably remain intact. That's the amazing part of this story. That's what makes this book so good. He doesn't wallow in the hate or the judgement that surrounds him.
"THEIR LOVE DID WHAT HATRED COULD NOT, AND NEVER WILL" - Dillion Rogers
A Life Intercepted is a spellbinding story about a man's character that is demonstrated though both Matthew's actions and his thoughts. He is humble and always gives credit to his team. He shares in all the glory, but when his life comes crashing down, it is utterly amazing how no one in the community stands by him. The book's ultimate appeal is in its story of forgiveness.
Charles Martin certainly has a way with words. He masterfully weaves this story that comes from his heart. Martin also had a football career, and then one day it was over. He also has a son with a promising football future. This book, while not Martin's story, is rooted in his experiences, his decisions and his heart. When his football career was over in 1989, he came to Florida State University in Tallahassee Florida, (my hometown and my alma mater) and gave up his idol and began his writing career in earnest. By the grace of God, he has touch the lives of million by all the powerful stories he has written ever since. This book is just one of many. And his readers are forever grateful. The inspiration for this book, included in the author's note at the book's conclusion is a must read!
Matthew "the Rocket" Rising's life was not only intercepted, it was ruined. Twelve years ago, Matthew had it all, love, friends, and notoriety for being the winningest quarterback in college football. He was the number one NFL draft pick, and had made lots of people happy. Almost everyone loved him. Almost everyone. But on the night of the draft his glory days came to an abrupt end. He was accused of a heinous sex crime and the evidence was irrefutable. Having served his time, he is now being released from Wiregrass Prison, in southwestern Georgia.
With no one at the prison gates to meet him, Matthew hitchhikes directly back to Gardi, Georgia, his hometown. He has one objective in mind, to find his wife and win back her love. His return to Gardi was met with open hostility and hatred from his beloved community. No one including his wife Audrey wanted him there.
Audrey, who also lost everything twelve years ago, has taken refuge from the press and the community, at the local Catholic school. There she discovered a young orphan, Dillion Rogers. Audrey mentors Dillion to the best of her ability. As Dillion grows to be a talented young man she realizes he potentially has the talent to achieve the football career that Matthew never had. But she knows he will needs a good coach. And then Matthew shows up. But helping Dillon means violating Matthews parole. Should Matthew take that risk? What if it is the only way to win back Audrey's love?
REVIEW
A heart wrenching story of the implosion of a life, the loss of a love, the fight for redemption and undeserved forgiveness. This book will have you thinking about it long after you close the back cover. Matthew Rising has been through quite an ordeal. But his values, his hopes, and his love unbelievably remain intact. That's the amazing part of this story. That's what makes this book so good. He doesn't wallow in the hate or the judgement that surrounds him.
"THEIR LOVE DID WHAT HATRED COULD NOT, AND NEVER WILL" - Dillion Rogers
A Life Intercepted is a spellbinding story about a man's character that is demonstrated though both Matthew's actions and his thoughts. He is humble and always gives credit to his team. He shares in all the glory, but when his life comes crashing down, it is utterly amazing how no one in the community stands by him. The book's ultimate appeal is in its story of forgiveness.
Charles Martin certainly has a way with words. He masterfully weaves this story that comes from his heart. Martin also had a football career, and then one day it was over. He also has a son with a promising football future. This book, while not Martin's story, is rooted in his experiences, his decisions and his heart. When his football career was over in 1989, he came to Florida State University in Tallahassee Florida, (my hometown and my alma mater) and gave up his idol and began his writing career in earnest. By the grace of God, he has touch the lives of million by all the powerful stories he has written ever since. This book is just one of many. And his readers are forever grateful. The inspiration for this book, included in the author's note at the book's conclusion is a must read!
February 7, 2024
I loved this story of forgiveness and redemption, and seeing how a hardened heart can soften again. I also greatly appreciated the author's notes at the end which were deeply personal and touching.
There were just a couple of issues I had with the story line, and hence the 4/5 stars given. 1) Audrey, his wife. If she had been with him ALL that time, and seen him through SO many life circumstances, why was she so quick to turn her back on him? It seems that she should have known him even better than anyone else did, thereby standing by him "for better or for worse." 2) This was the biggest sticking point for me- he was innocent. Yet, he just gave up on defending himself in the name of forgiveness. I understand that forgiveness means letting go of bitterness, malice, rage, and anger. But it doesn't mean you cannot or should not continue to fight for justice, especially if you have been wrongly accused. He just threw his hands up and gave up, and this REALLY bothered me. He actually was given opportunities to prove his innocence and he declined. Like a martyr. This just did not sit well with me. What would he have done if things had not turned out the way they did? Just sit in prison his entire life? Maybe the author was trying to portray him as Jesus, when he went willingly to the cross, but that is different. Rocket was not Jesus, and in this world we will have troubles, but that does not mean we just throw our hands up in the air and give up. I feel this gives the wrong impression to people, especially for seekers- that you have to become meek and compliant even if it is not ethically or morally right. Just because someone in a position of authority or power declares something to be true or acceptable doesn’t automatically make it so. If Christians do not stand up for the injustices in the world, then who fill? Popular opinion is fickle. Wrong is still wrong, and justice is still justice.
There were just a couple of issues I had with the story line, and hence the 4/5 stars given. 1) Audrey, his wife. If she had been with him ALL that time, and seen him through SO many life circumstances, why was she so quick to turn her back on him? It seems that she should have known him even better than anyone else did, thereby standing by him "for better or for worse." 2) This was the biggest sticking point for me- he was innocent. Yet, he just gave up on defending himself in the name of forgiveness. I understand that forgiveness means letting go of bitterness, malice, rage, and anger. But it doesn't mean you cannot or should not continue to fight for justice, especially if you have been wrongly accused. He just threw his hands up and gave up, and this REALLY bothered me. He actually was given opportunities to prove his innocence and he declined. Like a martyr. This just did not sit well with me. What would he have done if things had not turned out the way they did? Just sit in prison his entire life? Maybe the author was trying to portray him as Jesus, when he went willingly to the cross, but that is different. Rocket was not Jesus, and in this world we will have troubles, but that does not mean we just throw our hands up in the air and give up. I feel this gives the wrong impression to people, especially for seekers- that you have to become meek and compliant even if it is not ethically or morally right. Just because someone in a position of authority or power declares something to be true or acceptable doesn’t automatically make it so. If Christians do not stand up for the injustices in the world, then who fill? Popular opinion is fickle. Wrong is still wrong, and justice is still justice.
October 21, 2014
Charles Martin rocks (again)!
If a female who doesn't particularly care about football (unless the Oklahoma State Cowboys are playing) can give this book a 5 star rating, it must be GREAT. And it truly is. Charles Martin has once again introduced me to characters that I respect and can relate to. Did I understand the football positions and plays? Not one bit. But the passions displayed for the game are similar to those I have for things that I love. And those things that we truly love can help sustain us through the darkest of times, as evidenced by the main characters in this book. Mr. Martin's eloquent word pictures kept me feeling like I was standing beside them through their struggles and joys, and as any true friend, I would be there through the end. And when the end came, this reader wanted more.
If a female who doesn't particularly care about football (unless the Oklahoma State Cowboys are playing) can give this book a 5 star rating, it must be GREAT. And it truly is. Charles Martin has once again introduced me to characters that I respect and can relate to. Did I understand the football positions and plays? Not one bit. But the passions displayed for the game are similar to those I have for things that I love. And those things that we truly love can help sustain us through the darkest of times, as evidenced by the main characters in this book. Mr. Martin's eloquent word pictures kept me feeling like I was standing beside them through their struggles and joys, and as any true friend, I would be there through the end. And when the end came, this reader wanted more.
August 13, 2020
I’m not really a football fan, I do not have kids that played football, we didn’t even have a school football team. So, for the life of me, I have no idea why I love this book so much. From the first chapter all the way through to the authors note I was captivated and invested in the story and its characters. This is a story of a young quarterback who had everything going for him until a conviction of a crime sidelined him. Read this, it’s sooo good.
June 24, 2016
This was another well written book from Charles Martin. The subject matter was a little hard for me, and slightly unbelievable to me. From what I have seen, I wish they were that hard on sex offenders, but even with tons of concrete evidence, they let people walk away with nothing.
I loved the story though…if I could think of it as fiction.
I loved the story though…if I could think of it as fiction.
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