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Grace #2
Grace in the Shadows
Two women. One collision course with truth.
Physiotherapist Esther has survived cancer, but wounds within her family remain unhealed. Is her revived faith the reason for the rift or could a simmering secret be the root cause?
Cosmetics consultant Rachel buried her past - and her father’s God - but the past refuses to stay buried. Will she continue to run or is confronting her pain the way to freedom?
Can God’s grace shine even in the darkest of shadows?
Available in print ,LARGE PRINT, digital, and AUDIO.
312 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2018
41 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Christine Dillon
20 books201 followersChristine writes both Christian fiction and non-fiction.
Her debut novel, 'Grace in Strange Disguise' - was published 1 October 2017. The six-book series was completed in December, 2021.
In 2023, Christine changed genres and is now writing Old Testament-era fiction. The 'Light of Nations' series will be multiple books, starting with 'Wells and Wanderers - Amorites'.
Author website: www.storytellerchristine.com
Subscribe via my website to become a 'storyteller friend' for updates and a free book.
Find 'storytellerchristine' on FB, Pinterest.
Follow on BookBub.
Since 2004, Christine has been a Bible storyteller, and each year she's more excited by what she's learning. This is a tremendous way to communicate and make disciples.
Bible storytelling website & linked Facebook group: www.storyingthescriptures.com
'storying the scriptures' (closed FB group - so you need to ask permission to join)
BOOK TRANSLATIONS
* 'Telling the Gospel Through Story' was published in traditional Chinese in February 2015
* 1-2-1 discipleship was published in simplified Chinese in October 2015 and in traditional Chinese in January 2017.
* Verborgen Genade (Dutch translation of 'Grace in Strange Disguise), published in February 2020.
* Siegreich Sein: mit Gottes Wort (German translation of 'Sword Fighting') published December 2021.
Her debut novel, 'Grace in Strange Disguise' - was published 1 October 2017. The six-book series was completed in December, 2021.
In 2023, Christine changed genres and is now writing Old Testament-era fiction. The 'Light of Nations' series will be multiple books, starting with 'Wells and Wanderers - Amorites'.
Author website: www.storytellerchristine.com
Subscribe via my website to become a 'storyteller friend' for updates and a free book.
Find 'storytellerchristine' on FB, Pinterest.
Follow on BookBub.
Since 2004, Christine has been a Bible storyteller, and each year she's more excited by what she's learning. This is a tremendous way to communicate and make disciples.
Bible storytelling website & linked Facebook group: www.storyingthescriptures.com
'storying the scriptures' (closed FB group - so you need to ask permission to join)
BOOK TRANSLATIONS
* 'Telling the Gospel Through Story' was published in traditional Chinese in February 2015
* 1-2-1 discipleship was published in simplified Chinese in October 2015 and in traditional Chinese in January 2017.
* Verborgen Genade (Dutch translation of 'Grace in Strange Disguise), published in February 2020.
* Siegreich Sein: mit Gottes Wort (German translation of 'Sword Fighting') published December 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
July 30, 2018
If you haven't read anything by Indie author Christine Dillon, then you are missing out. In her first book, Grace in Strange Disguise, we meet Esther, a believer who is diagnosed with cancer. The author brilliantly tackled the question, what happens if you believe in God for healing, but you aren't healed? In this second book, Grace in the Shadows, we meet up with Esther once again to follow her journey as she discovers long-buried family secrets that quite literally tore her family apart.
Christine Dillon has done it again! This is a series you want to invest yourself in. Once again the author touches on the false doctrine many churches spout - that if you are sick, then you must have unconfessed sin in your life. In other words, it's all your fault! This was a central theme in the first book, and while it is still part of Esther's (and Rachel's) story, in this book the author takes us a little further and digs beneath the veneer that many Christians dress up in each Sunday. The false clothing that says, "I must be the perfect Christian."
Rachel has suffered horribly for the mistakes of her past. Cast out by her "Christian" father she turns her back on God vowing never to step into a church again. Now her past is literally coming back to haunt her in nightmares that she can't escape. Desperate for relief and answers she heads back home and discovers that God has always been waiting for her.
This book had so many surprises in it that I am hoping and praying there is a third! I love how this author is unafraid to share the Gospel in her books. She does it in a unique way, called Storytelling, that you will long to try out for yourself! I love that aspect of her books. So many Christian books fail in the department of talking about God and salvation. They seem to just skim over it, but not Dillon. While taking her characters through their own spiritual awakening, she is also giving the reader the chance to experience the same thing. And she still manages to do it without being preachy!
The end of the book made me cry and left me hoping that Esther's Dad would come to his senses. Maybe that happens in a third book? Here's hoping!
Christine Dillon has done it again! This is a series you want to invest yourself in. Once again the author touches on the false doctrine many churches spout - that if you are sick, then you must have unconfessed sin in your life. In other words, it's all your fault! This was a central theme in the first book, and while it is still part of Esther's (and Rachel's) story, in this book the author takes us a little further and digs beneath the veneer that many Christians dress up in each Sunday. The false clothing that says, "I must be the perfect Christian."
Rachel has suffered horribly for the mistakes of her past. Cast out by her "Christian" father she turns her back on God vowing never to step into a church again. Now her past is literally coming back to haunt her in nightmares that she can't escape. Desperate for relief and answers she heads back home and discovers that God has always been waiting for her.
This book had so many surprises in it that I am hoping and praying there is a third! I love how this author is unafraid to share the Gospel in her books. She does it in a unique way, called Storytelling, that you will long to try out for yourself! I love that aspect of her books. So many Christian books fail in the department of talking about God and salvation. They seem to just skim over it, but not Dillon. While taking her characters through their own spiritual awakening, she is also giving the reader the chance to experience the same thing. And she still manages to do it without being preachy!
The end of the book made me cry and left me hoping that Esther's Dad would come to his senses. Maybe that happens in a third book? Here's hoping!
July 23, 2018
EARLY REVIEW: Book due to be launched 1 Aug. If you liked the first book, you need to read this one. If you haven't read 'Grace in Strange Disguise', read it now while you wait for this sequel to be released!
In Dillon’s first book, we met Esther who is diagnosed with cancer, which becomes the catalyst to the realisation that the faith she grew up with was askew from the reality of God.
In this book, Esther’s story continues her journey of faith with the unexpected discovery that her trust in God’s plan had gaping holes, as she tries to force His hand to act according to her timing, though with good intentions.
Rachel’s story is interwoven in the chapters in between – we slowly get a sense of this driven woman: plagued by a past she can’t run away from, decisions that can’t be undone. The paths of these women collide and begin to develop into a more complex story with twists galore.
TIP TO THE WISE - Do not skip the prologue! While the characters are blissfully unaware of the revelations to come, as the readers, we are given a backstage pass in the prologue so we watch the unfolding drama with some level of understanding. However, just over half way, the plot twists unaccountably and devastatingly, leaving us in as much mystery as the characters in the story. Never have I wanted another miracle so badly for Esther.
Dillon's first book was a good read. This sequel is an amazing read! Dillon has matured in her writing and the flow of her story between fiction (the story of Esther, Rachel et al) and fact (the story of Jesus) are evidence of that. This book more naturally showcases the story telling technique that Dillon has written about (in her non-fiction work 'Telling the Gospel through Story') as a way of sharing about Jesus. (that is another book you ought to have in your resources library)
In Dillon’s first book, we met Esther who is diagnosed with cancer, which becomes the catalyst to the realisation that the faith she grew up with was askew from the reality of God.
In this book, Esther’s story continues her journey of faith with the unexpected discovery that her trust in God’s plan had gaping holes, as she tries to force His hand to act according to her timing, though with good intentions.
Rachel’s story is interwoven in the chapters in between – we slowly get a sense of this driven woman: plagued by a past she can’t run away from, decisions that can’t be undone. The paths of these women collide and begin to develop into a more complex story with twists galore.
TIP TO THE WISE - Do not skip the prologue! While the characters are blissfully unaware of the revelations to come, as the readers, we are given a backstage pass in the prologue so we watch the unfolding drama with some level of understanding. However, just over half way, the plot twists unaccountably and devastatingly, leaving us in as much mystery as the characters in the story. Never have I wanted another miracle so badly for Esther.
Dillon's first book was a good read. This sequel is an amazing read! Dillon has matured in her writing and the flow of her story between fiction (the story of Esther, Rachel et al) and fact (the story of Jesus) are evidence of that. This book more naturally showcases the story telling technique that Dillon has written about (in her non-fiction work 'Telling the Gospel through Story') as a way of sharing about Jesus. (that is another book you ought to have in your resources library)
July 22, 2018
If you’re looking for a story that shows just how big an impact one person can have for the Gospel in their everyday life, look no further. Esther Macdonald will challenge you to make your daily interactions an opportunity to witness for Christ, whether that be by words or actions or both. In addition, you’ll get a poignant story of family secrets, returning prodigals, and the way in which God relentlessly pursues his children and covers them with his immeasurable grace. PS: It would be advisable to have a tissue or two on hand…
If you haven’t read the first book in this series, Grace in Strange Disguise, then I suggest you do so before you pick this one up. It tells the story of Esther’s battle against cancer and her struggle to understand why God hasn’t healed her, and you’ll have a better understanding of the tensions within her family, which become a significant part of this story.
Whereas Esther has allowed her trials to bring her close to God, Rachel rejected God years ago. But she’s about to find out what it means to be pursued by God, and it’s a compelling story as she is gradually, and often painfully, forced to unpack the emotional baggage she has been carrying around with her.
But perhaps the most interesting thing about this series is the way in which storytelling and questioning are used by Esther, Joy, and Gina in order to open up conversations about the Gospel. In fact, even to get to the heart of their own ongoing struggles and put their feet back on the right path when they slip. This is one of the most unashamedly evangelical novels I have ever read, and yet I never once felt like I was being preached at. I came away inspired to shine my light as brightly as Esther did, and to look for God’s goodness and joy even in the darkest shadows.
Dare I hope there might be more to come?
If you haven’t read the first book in this series, Grace in Strange Disguise, then I suggest you do so before you pick this one up. It tells the story of Esther’s battle against cancer and her struggle to understand why God hasn’t healed her, and you’ll have a better understanding of the tensions within her family, which become a significant part of this story.
Whereas Esther has allowed her trials to bring her close to God, Rachel rejected God years ago. But she’s about to find out what it means to be pursued by God, and it’s a compelling story as she is gradually, and often painfully, forced to unpack the emotional baggage she has been carrying around with her.
But perhaps the most interesting thing about this series is the way in which storytelling and questioning are used by Esther, Joy, and Gina in order to open up conversations about the Gospel. In fact, even to get to the heart of their own ongoing struggles and put their feet back on the right path when they slip. This is one of the most unashamedly evangelical novels I have ever read, and yet I never once felt like I was being preached at. I came away inspired to shine my light as brightly as Esther did, and to look for God’s goodness and joy even in the darkest shadows.
Dare I hope there might be more to come?
March 26, 2019
4.5 stars from me. This was a fantastic book. Even though it is fiction I got so much from it that I can apply in my own life. An engaging story that I didn't want to put down. You really do need to read the books in this series in order. They are both great! Highly recommend both books.
July 23, 2018
I was hooked from the first to the last chapter and loved this book on so many levels. A beautiful blend of 'business' and pleasure, which is to say, a well written novel that naturally tackles many biblical truths whilst encouraging the Christian reader to develop their spiritual maturity and ability to share the Gospel. It has thoughtful, refreshing descriptions that aren't overdone and an engaging plot that is not afraid to go to hard places. Christine's first novel (Grace in Strange Disguise) is excellent, and this sequel far surpasses it. A fiction book that will encourage and inspire you to spend more time with God in His word, learning it to share the Gospel in a faithful and engaging way.
December 14, 2018
Inspiring, engaging story
The dual perspectives of estranged sisters and their challenges with faith is brought to a stunning conclusion in Grace in the Shadows. If you enjoy Christian fiction that is real, that asks the difficult questions, then you should enjoy this Australian-based story of grace and redemption.
The dual perspectives of estranged sisters and their challenges with faith is brought to a stunning conclusion in Grace in the Shadows. If you enjoy Christian fiction that is real, that asks the difficult questions, then you should enjoy this Australian-based story of grace and redemption.
July 22, 2018
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was quite excited for the chance to get my hands on the second. Some of the moments that struck me the most are unfortunately ones you will need to read for yourself to discover because I would be spoiling if I did. I will do my best to share from what is safe to reveal.
I was honestly curious where Christine would take Esther's character in this continuation. In Grace in Strange Disguise, Esther learns the hard way that the 'Health and Wealth" teachings she'd heard her whole life, are not what the Bible reveals. In fact, we are actually informed to be prepared for suffering in this life for Christ's sake. Her faith goes through some heavy testing in the first book, and she comes out with a more pure and realistic understanding of who God is. As this (the second) book starts out, Esther is in remission from her cancer, but is still struggling with conflict with her family. Her father appears to only be interested in her return to Victory church, while her mother is struggling with guilt over her life decisions and is hoping for peace. Esther hopes that her family can reconcile not only with her, but with the true God of the Bible.
Oftentimes in church, stories from the Old Testament are much less common to hear from than those of the New Testament. Sure, we've all heard the stories of Jonah and the whale and Daniel in the lion's den as kids in Sunday school, but do we look at those stories as adults to gleam from them all that God has revealed to us? Do we think to study about not only what happened, but how or why it happened or what we can learn from it? In this series, Christine weaves stories from the Bible into the conversations of the story so that as the characters are processing what God reveals to them, the reader is able to get a fuller, deeper understanding as well. I don't think I've ever seen another author weave the Bible stories into their own in such a way, but I love how it was done. Esther's character (along with others), is so saturated with God's Word, that it pours out of her in every situation she faces. This is something that is so encouraging to see.
Rachel is a new character to the story. She has spent most of her life running while never feeling at rest. She is haunted by her past and she is fearful of her future. Growing up she was reminded constantly of her inability to be the perfect Proverbs 31 woman. As an adult she still struggles with the feelings that she doesn't measure up to what she's supposed to. She feels unwanted and unworthy. My heart really broke for her. In some ways though, I could see every other woman in her eyes. How often do we ourselves hear about the Proverbs 31 woman and punish ourselves for not measuring up? Whether it's from others or self-imposed, we feel this constant need like we are supposed to be perfect in this life, and any flaw makes us the worst. It leaves us crippled to share when we need help or even just a shoulder to cry on momentarily. It divides us when we desperately need fellowship. Even if we can't relate to Rachel specifically, I think we can all relate to the root of her feelings on a heart level.
As with the first book in this series, Grace in the Shadows did not disappoint. I would encourage you to get your hands on a copy of your own if you haven't already. I highly suggest reading Grace in Strange Disguise first, as this is not a series that should be read as a stand-alone. Happy reading!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
I was honestly curious where Christine would take Esther's character in this continuation. In Grace in Strange Disguise, Esther learns the hard way that the 'Health and Wealth" teachings she'd heard her whole life, are not what the Bible reveals. In fact, we are actually informed to be prepared for suffering in this life for Christ's sake. Her faith goes through some heavy testing in the first book, and she comes out with a more pure and realistic understanding of who God is. As this (the second) book starts out, Esther is in remission from her cancer, but is still struggling with conflict with her family. Her father appears to only be interested in her return to Victory church, while her mother is struggling with guilt over her life decisions and is hoping for peace. Esther hopes that her family can reconcile not only with her, but with the true God of the Bible.
Oftentimes in church, stories from the Old Testament are much less common to hear from than those of the New Testament. Sure, we've all heard the stories of Jonah and the whale and Daniel in the lion's den as kids in Sunday school, but do we look at those stories as adults to gleam from them all that God has revealed to us? Do we think to study about not only what happened, but how or why it happened or what we can learn from it? In this series, Christine weaves stories from the Bible into the conversations of the story so that as the characters are processing what God reveals to them, the reader is able to get a fuller, deeper understanding as well. I don't think I've ever seen another author weave the Bible stories into their own in such a way, but I love how it was done. Esther's character (along with others), is so saturated with God's Word, that it pours out of her in every situation she faces. This is something that is so encouraging to see.
Rachel is a new character to the story. She has spent most of her life running while never feeling at rest. She is haunted by her past and she is fearful of her future. Growing up she was reminded constantly of her inability to be the perfect Proverbs 31 woman. As an adult she still struggles with the feelings that she doesn't measure up to what she's supposed to. She feels unwanted and unworthy. My heart really broke for her. In some ways though, I could see every other woman in her eyes. How often do we ourselves hear about the Proverbs 31 woman and punish ourselves for not measuring up? Whether it's from others or self-imposed, we feel this constant need like we are supposed to be perfect in this life, and any flaw makes us the worst. It leaves us crippled to share when we need help or even just a shoulder to cry on momentarily. It divides us when we desperately need fellowship. Even if we can't relate to Rachel specifically, I think we can all relate to the root of her feelings on a heart level.
As with the first book in this series, Grace in the Shadows did not disappoint. I would encourage you to get your hands on a copy of your own if you haven't already. I highly suggest reading Grace in Strange Disguise first, as this is not a series that should be read as a stand-alone. Happy reading!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 15, 2019
4.5 stars for this second book in the Grace series by Christine Dillon. While you could probably read this one as a stand-alone as they give enough details from the first book to give you the basis, I would strongly recommend reading these in order. In the first book, we're introduced to Esther, whose father is the pastor of a growing mega-church. Her cancer diagnosis turns her world upside-down and through it, she discovers who Jesus really is. In this second book, her faith is growing and she is evangelizing more. We are also introduced to a new character, Rachel, whose connection to Esther comes as a surprise. Rachel has been running from God her whole life.
This book had the same spiritual depth as the first book did and had me crying, especially towards the end. I struggled with some of the evangelizing as the story-telling felt a bit stilted at times and Esther's original response to Rachel seemed fairly out of character for her. She eventually came around, but her frustration, while a very "human" response, seemed out of character for the Esther I came to know both in the first book and the first part of this one. Overall, though, still an excellent book about deepening and sharing one's faith.
I would recommend this one to those who enjoy inspirational women's fiction and those who enjoy fiction that convicts and strengthens faith. I look forward to how the rest of this series will go!
This book had the same spiritual depth as the first book did and had me crying, especially towards the end. I struggled with some of the evangelizing as the story-telling felt a bit stilted at times and Esther's original response to Rachel seemed fairly out of character for her. She eventually came around, but her frustration, while a very "human" response, seemed out of character for the Esther I came to know both in the first book and the first part of this one. Overall, though, still an excellent book about deepening and sharing one's faith.
I would recommend this one to those who enjoy inspirational women's fiction and those who enjoy fiction that convicts and strengthens faith. I look forward to how the rest of this series will go!
August 17, 2021
This is the second book in the “Grace” series. I was drawn into this series because it sets itself apart within the inspirational fiction genre that is, sadly, awash with a narrative of watered down faith, weak women, and men who rescue weak women. Instead we get to meet believable characters that wrestle with unanswered questions when their lives are turned upside down by hardship and disappointment.
We once again join Esther whose life has changed drastically. The curtain is pulled back a bit more and we are privy to the secrets that her mother and father have determined to not only ignore but completely forget. Another reason that sets this series apart, is that the second book is not a placeholder. It moves the storyline forward and boldly follows through with a genuine story arc. I listened to the audio version read by the author on Hoopla through my local library.
The author Christine Dillon lays bare the dysfunction in this family but then offers the soothing balm, the ultimate redeeming story of the Gospel that has changed millions of lives throughout history. I love stories of redemption and highly recommend this series. This book will deeply resonate with anyone who has been wounded by rejection and lies.
We once again join Esther whose life has changed drastically. The curtain is pulled back a bit more and we are privy to the secrets that her mother and father have determined to not only ignore but completely forget. Another reason that sets this series apart, is that the second book is not a placeholder. It moves the storyline forward and boldly follows through with a genuine story arc. I listened to the audio version read by the author on Hoopla through my local library.
The author Christine Dillon lays bare the dysfunction in this family but then offers the soothing balm, the ultimate redeeming story of the Gospel that has changed millions of lives throughout history. I love stories of redemption and highly recommend this series. This book will deeply resonate with anyone who has been wounded by rejection and lies.
July 30, 2018
‘Grace in the Shadows’ is a great read and I would highly recommend it to lovers of Christian fiction or those in a book club who would like to use it as a base for further discussion and study.
It launches out immediately with a new character and storyline, creating intrigue as to how it all fits together. The story continues to follow the main character Esther (‘Grace in Strange Disguise’) finding out more in regard to her struggles with health and family, but also how she used everyday connections to build positive 'God moment' relationships with others. I found the issues Esther and other characters faced, as the story progressed, had real depth, raw and confronting at times and without foreseeable resolution. The focus to draw near to God and see His purpose regardless of circumstance. In doing this, positives came out of even the worst situations. I love how this book seamlessly and comfortably draws in biblical storytelling as a way of understanding God’s purpose and grace in our lives, making it more than just a work of fiction but also a practical teaching tool. Overall a 10/10 from me!
It launches out immediately with a new character and storyline, creating intrigue as to how it all fits together. The story continues to follow the main character Esther (‘Grace in Strange Disguise’) finding out more in regard to her struggles with health and family, but also how she used everyday connections to build positive 'God moment' relationships with others. I found the issues Esther and other characters faced, as the story progressed, had real depth, raw and confronting at times and without foreseeable resolution. The focus to draw near to God and see His purpose regardless of circumstance. In doing this, positives came out of even the worst situations. I love how this book seamlessly and comfortably draws in biblical storytelling as a way of understanding God’s purpose and grace in our lives, making it more than just a work of fiction but also a practical teaching tool. Overall a 10/10 from me!
July 24, 2018
I sat down to start reading this over a late lunch break yesterday ... and after the 30 mins was up, decided to read 'just one more chapter'. Happily my work situation is flexible, as I read non-stop until heading out for dinner! - And then finished off the last 50 pages when I got home. This is a book that draws you into the characters, and carries you with them through their choices. I wasn't hooked by the first chapter, but was 30 mins into it.
Esther's continuing story (following on from 'Grace in Disguise') is an enjoyable read (but have tissues handy!), a helpful prompter for meaningful reflection, and a refreshing take on life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. I have already recommended it to a new friend who lost her husband to cancer many years ago.
Esther's continuing story (following on from 'Grace in Disguise') is an enjoyable read (but have tissues handy!), a helpful prompter for meaningful reflection, and a refreshing take on life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. I have already recommended it to a new friend who lost her husband to cancer many years ago.
July 13, 2020
If you like stories with spiritual depth, real life challenges, and characters with a passion for Christianity , you’ll love Grace in the Shadows. I know I did. This story hits all the right notes. We see the good and the bad in the circumstances, the vulnerability and strength in each character, plus the deep human need for Christ and the battle we face to admit it.
This book inspired strong emotions. No spoilers, but the end is both hard hitting and joyful.
I’m looking forward in the next two books in the series, especially Book 4 about Rachel. This woman won my heart the minute she stepped onto the page.
Recommended for readers of women's fiction and anyone grappling with spiritual wounds, complex family issues, and how to share God's love with others.
This book inspired strong emotions. No spoilers, but the end is both hard hitting and joyful.
I’m looking forward in the next two books in the series, especially Book 4 about Rachel. This woman won my heart the minute she stepped onto the page.
Recommended for readers of women's fiction and anyone grappling with spiritual wounds, complex family issues, and how to share God's love with others.
December 11, 2024
Christine Dillon is one of the most insightful Christian authors that I have ever encountered. I just finished her 2nd book in the series, and it was as informative and moving books that I have had the pleasure of reading. She takes us through the life of Esther MacDonald on her journey to finding the Real Jesus, and sharing His love with so many people she encounters. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a great read, as well as to all who are searching for the missing something in their own lives. You just might find it in these pages. Well done, Christine Dillon!
August 27, 2020
It's a gift to be able to include such clear presentations of the Gospel in a book without coming across as preachy or dry. This book ministered to my spirit in it's well done illustrations of faith and the object of that faith. Esther's story continues and we get to know some of the other characters a little better. A definite 5 star book both in spiritual application as well as entertainment.
November 26, 2019
Absolutely loved this series. Very powerful emotional read. I was very close to my lovely godly nana so loved reading this book. Awesome read. Made me think about my faith, death and life, family. New favorite author.
December 17, 2018
The continuation of Esther's story is a bit of a tear jerker. Esther will have to figure out some old feelings. A well crafted story with plenty to love.
November 23, 2020
I've read this book (and all in the series) several times and have loved it each time. It's not preachy and the characters are believable and so likeable - so real! I find it inspiring and it lifts me when I'm feeling low and spiritually dry. Because of the book I've also used its method of sharing the gospel through the use of stories and it's also helped me in my understanding of what I believe. Although the book made me cry at times, it also lifted my spirits and has encouraged me through hard times.
February 28, 2021
An excellent book. This is a beautiful, emotional story of love, forgiveness and reconciliation on a number of levels.
This book is well written with beautiful imagery and a storyline that engages us and helps us to understand stories in the Bible on a deeper level. Even the title of this book is so meaningful.
I couldn’t ‘put this book down’ when I started reading it and that to me is the measure of a book that engages us on an emotional level and keeps our interest....keeping us wanting more ..... wanting to know what would happen next. I thoroughly recommend.
This book is well written with beautiful imagery and a storyline that engages us and helps us to understand stories in the Bible on a deeper level. Even the title of this book is so meaningful.
I couldn’t ‘put this book down’ when I started reading it and that to me is the measure of a book that engages us on an emotional level and keeps our interest....keeping us wanting more ..... wanting to know what would happen next. I thoroughly recommend.
December 19, 2023
I really enjoyed the story of these two sisters, even though it made me cry. It was also amazingly helpful to be inside the head of someone living out their faith so vibrantly and who prioritised drawing others to Christ. I loved seeing how she used questions and stories and prayer, and how she was winging it (in faith) so often. Deeply encouraging.
March 26, 2025
What a brilliant book, very well written and explained. If you are a believer or none believer, you can learn from Christine's books.
I was very touched and rear all 4 books in the series.
I would recommend them to anyone seeking the truth about the love of Jesus.
I will certainly look to read more of her books.
I was very touched and rear all 4 books in the series.
I would recommend them to anyone seeking the truth about the love of Jesus.
I will certainly look to read more of her books.
April 11, 2022
life changing
I was not expecting this story to go the way it did, but it was even better, so much more than I had imagined. Esther’s story is truly life changing.
I was not expecting this story to go the way it did, but it was even better, so much more than I had imagined. Esther’s story is truly life changing.
January 29, 2023
Wow what a serious topic done so well. I’m really enjoying this series. If you want to stray from the normal topics novels cover this is just for you.
December 21, 2020
I loved this book, and gobbled it down. The characters are richly drawn, realistic and loveable. The author clearly has a big store of practical knowledge about people, and God, that shines through in her storytelling. It's great reading a Christian novel set in Australia too!
February 27, 2021
This was a difficult read for many reasons. I had to really learn to like Rachel's character. She bothered me, I couldn't understand how someone could treat a family member so harshly. I was glad at the end how the sister's reconciled, and liked how the story unfolds. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say I was crying at the end!
November 19, 2020
This book will challenge you to the core. Is your life really meaningful? Esther presses in to find what will bring rich meaning to a life that is numbered in days. Beautifully told, this story will bring you to tears. Tears of sadness, tears of joy.
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February 13, 2021Amazing four books!!! I couldn’t put them down. I’ve never sat and read four books straight before but the peaceful entertaining and descriptive writing just made it so easy for me. I just couldn’t wait to hear the next part of the story. Each character became a part of my life during that time like I was inserted into the set myself. I felt apart of the family like I was barracking for their release into newness of life. I felt I was on the journey with them fighting the same issues towards freedom for myself too as I read !! Four must reads !!
October 23, 2025
After reading the first book, I couldn't help but continue to this one. And I'm not disappointed. Though I wished for a different ending, accepting it just as it is feels like learning to trust God's plan in everything. This book teaches me perseverance in faith and to see beauty in the so-called misfortune. I cried tears of gratefulness and peace reading this! I absolutely recommend this book! (P.S. I'm already halfway through reading the 3rd book now, haha!) Thanks for this book, Ms. Dillon!
September 5, 2024
Really enjoyed it. Love that it's in a series and can read more.
October 16, 2025
This book is perfect for those who enjoy heavy spiritual content with a clear gospel presentation and hard real-life topics where life doesn't always go as we'd like but there's still hope in the suffering.
August 14, 2018
Author Christine Dillon’s fiction tackles some of the hard issues that Christians face in the real world. In Grace in Strange Disguise, the challenge was “what happens when the prayer of faith doesn’t heal?” In Grace in the Shadows, it’s “how—and why—would God love me, after what I’ve done?”
Book one’s Esther believed her faith wasn’t good enough, and book two’s Rachel believes she isn’t good enough. They both must overcome negative father influences and false ideas of who God really is.
Readers of book one will be glad to see Esther and her family again. Grace in the Shadows is Rachel’s story, but Esther has plenty of point-of-view time as well.
Rachel is resisting God’s call, while Esther, who’s been growing in faith, comes face-to-face with the realization that she needs to re-learn some of the lessons He’s already walked her through. Isn’t that typical of most Christians in our spiritual lives?
What keeps the Grace books from feeling preachy is that the conversations about God and faith are natural to the characters and their struggles. It’s kind of like eavesdropping on real people who are working these things through in their lives. Here are some of the lines that resonated with me:
I didn’t engage as fully in this story as in the previous one, but I attribute that to the different subject and to having already encountered the Bible storytelling theme in book one. There is perhaps a storyteller voice to the narrative, instead of the deeper point of view that’s common these days, and this can make it easier to maintain a bit of reader distance. Yet the novel is well-executed, and the characters’ experiences are worthy of our time and can encourage us in our own daily lives.
And the ending is beautiful.
Christine Dillon is a missionary whose tag-line is “multiplying disciples one story at a time,” and the author of the Grace fiction series. She has also written non-fiction books about the Bible storytelling approach. For more about the author, visit storytellerchristine.com.
[Review copy provided by the author.]
Book one’s Esther believed her faith wasn’t good enough, and book two’s Rachel believes she isn’t good enough. They both must overcome negative father influences and false ideas of who God really is.
Readers of book one will be glad to see Esther and her family again. Grace in the Shadows is Rachel’s story, but Esther has plenty of point-of-view time as well.
Rachel is resisting God’s call, while Esther, who’s been growing in faith, comes face-to-face with the realization that she needs to re-learn some of the lessons He’s already walked her through. Isn’t that typical of most Christians in our spiritual lives?
What keeps the Grace books from feeling preachy is that the conversations about God and faith are natural to the characters and their struggles. It’s kind of like eavesdropping on real people who are working these things through in their lives. Here are some of the lines that resonated with me:
“God loves to take the worst things and bring good out of them.” [Naomi, Kindle location 202]
Esther always wanted to rush in and explain, but Joy kept saying, “Use questions, not explanations.” [Kindle location 856]
“Your mistakes can’t derail God’s plans. You and I aren’t big enough to do that.” [Naomi, Kindle location 1801]
I didn’t engage as fully in this story as in the previous one, but I attribute that to the different subject and to having already encountered the Bible storytelling theme in book one. There is perhaps a storyteller voice to the narrative, instead of the deeper point of view that’s common these days, and this can make it easier to maintain a bit of reader distance. Yet the novel is well-executed, and the characters’ experiences are worthy of our time and can encourage us in our own daily lives.
And the ending is beautiful.
Christine Dillon is a missionary whose tag-line is “multiplying disciples one story at a time,” and the author of the Grace fiction series. She has also written non-fiction books about the Bible storytelling approach. For more about the author, visit storytellerchristine.com.
[Review copy provided by the author.]
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