Christian Romantic Suspense: For three years, Kati Walsh has hunkered down at a new place of worship to dab at church-inflicted wounds. Her one outreach is to her kickboxing friends at the gym, but she’s been praying for God to stir her heart again. But she’s not sure that the new assistant pastor and his friend Reece Jernigan are what she asked for—because Assistant Pastor Josh Corbin plans to win the hearts of the north-side neighborhood, mostly described as “the hood.”
When Josh plans a prayer walk in the neighborhood, both the congregation and the police are wary, but Josh insists that prayer works. He believes in spiritual warfare—prayer, praise, and the Word of God. Reece, on the other hand, has been on the streets before, and his weapon of choice is a 9mm Glock. Two close friends with differing perspectives and both with an eye on Kati. But they’re not the only ones—the gang leader from the north side has taken an unexpected interest in Kati, too.
Reviewer Lin Sollecchio: “I LOVED this story. The struggle within us that goes on when Satan attacks and tries to rob us of our faith and our ability to fight evil is very compelling. As a reader, I had a few ‘aha’ moments of clarity and frequently thought ‘Yes!’ … I was also teary eyed a lot… I love your ministry through your writing.”
Linda was born and raised in Florida. She is married with two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren. At twenty-six, she discovered the miraculous love of Jesus Christ. God blessed her with a passion for the written word—especially mysteries and romantic suspense novels, from Nancy Drew to Agatha Christie, from Dee Henderson to Kristen Heitzman. She speaks about and works against human trafficking. Her author blog is www.lindarodante.com. Her human trafficking and commitment to God blog is at https://lindarodante.wordpress.com/
A solid 3 stars. There were aspects of the plot that were slow or that I didn't particularly like, but the message of the book was fire!
Characters: Kati was alright, not a huge fan. Josh was sweet. Reece was my favorite, and I wanted more of his and Josh's story and interactions.
Themes: Fire, like I said. It was about stepping outside our comfort zones and being willing to witness to people. Standing in and for God instead of letting fear hold us back. It was about Grace and Mercy and reaching out to the people. It was about loving others enough, even those we don't know, to lay down our lives for them. It was really a beautiful theme... a bit preachy at times, but it didn't bother me.
Language: N/A
Romance: Yes. There were some kisses and a love triangle that I didn't necessarily understand. Some of the kisses were a touch more passionate than I would have liked. More on that below in spoilers if you want to know.
Overall: It was pretty good. But I'll outline the things I didn't like below in spoilers.
*SPOILERS* First, the beginning was a bit slow, and the book isn't exactly what the blurb promises. Second, Josh kisses Kati on impulse and then apologizes and says he shouldn't have... but as the assistant pastor, I was pretty let down by that action. Like self-control, Josh, really? The moment wasn't even that romantic. Third, Reece held out longer than Josh but ended up kissing Kati too, rather passionately, and then felt bad because he thinks she's Josh's girl. There's another few kisses later with a bit of passion and mentioned that Reeces' mouth and tongue captured hers...bleh...but other than that not super detailed. Fourth, there was a drug deal/bust at a Christian concert... which I can write off as something trying to go down where no one would think to look. But then, at the same Christian concert, someone was drunk and made inappropriate comments toward a lady, and I was like, really? At a Christian concert? But whatever...that turns into a fight which the police break up while yelling about being police and Kati somehow accidently punches and office when he touches her...*shrugs* Don't know what happened there... Lastly, the events at the end almost felt put off the left field. I didn't understand why this guy was mad enough to kill or why he did what he did really or why it took him so long to do it? Over a month? Really? And yeah...it wasn't quite what I thought when I started the book, but the faith message was good enough to keep the rating at 3 stars.
We've all lived so long with Satan's attacks that we no longer see them as such. We possess weapons of divine power that can demolish strongholds, and yet we don't use them. Prayer, praise, God's word. The name of Jesus. Weapons. He's calling us our of our comfort zones, out of our safe zones, and asking if we are willing to take up the fight for our families, our neighbors, and for Him.
Your prayers move mountains. Your prayers put the devil to flight. Don't go saying you “only pray”, Warrior. Your prayers are weapons. Use them.
This was a powerful book for me to read! The characters ministered to me and stirred my heart to a deeper relationship with Christ Jesus and to use the weapon of prayer more often. No longer will I doubt my prayers are effective or have no meaning after reading this! I may not be someone who physically invades the enemies territory like Josh & Reece did, but I can still invade his territory in prayer. I can go to my “prayer closet” and intercede for my loved ones, my church family, and those who aren't part of God's kingdom and fight for them. The author stirred those smoldering embers in my heart to be a warrior for Christ in my prayers. I love it!!
Talking about the characters, I loved each one. Josh is the new assistant Pastor and has a heart for God and the people he's been called to minister to. He challenges them in ways that make them examine their own lives and calling. He leads them by example on what it really means to serve Christ; it's not in sitting in the pew each Sunday, but compelling them to do their part in the kingdom of God. Whatever that may mean to each person, whether it's in prayer, or worshiping in praise, or physically going out to reach their neighbors and lost loved ones. Or any combination of things, he encourages them that God has already given them weapons of spiritual warfare to use.
I'm calling out to dry bones today. You've been sitting in these pews long enough. You know there's more. You've asked and payed for more. God has heard your cry. I call out to the dry bones today. Come alive. God wants an army. Come alive!
Reece is his best friend and right-hand man. He has a rough past, one he's not proud of but he knows God has set him free of. Josh has been one to encourage him and help him grow in Christ. The book refers to them as a David and Johnathan relationship and I can see that clearly in them. He also has a real heart for people, especially those in gangs and shackled to things nobody should have to be. He has street smarts and helps balance Josh and vise versa. You really know he's grown quickly spiritually the more you learn about him in the story. Kati is a woman after my own heart! Seeing her growth and overcoming her past encouraged me. God made beauty from the ashes of her life just as He did mine. Our pasts don't define us, God's working in them and making us new is what does. Kati was reminded over and over again that she is a new creation and God views her as a warrior for Him; priceless and His child.
Spiritually moving and deeply compelling, Rodante challenges each one of us to a higher calling in Christ through imperfect people portrayed through her characters lives! Action packed pages will have your heart in your throat and a simmering of romance will stir your emotions. My prayer is that you are challenged through this book like I was. God didn't leave us defenseless, He gave us powerful weapons to use against the enemies attacks! Like Josh said, COME ALIVE, use those weapons and see if God doesn't move in your life and those around you!!
*I was provided with a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions are my own. *
Warrior is Linda Rodante’s latest offering in the romantic suspense Dangerous series. As soon as I heard that a new one was coming out, I jumped at the chance to review it because I really enjoyed the previous book Pursued. Rodante writes compelling characters and heart-in-your-throat suspense with a solid message. Sign me up.
One of the things I enjoy most about Rodante’s books (at least the two I’ve read lol) is that the title has more than one application to the story. In this case, “Warrior” is the one of the nicknames that Reece gives to Kati Walsh from the moment she captivates him in the kickboxing ring. For her part, Kati holds her pain close and it’s only as she begins to open up to Joshua Corbin, the new assistant pastor at her church (and Reece’s best friend), that we get to see exactly what she’s overcome. And it’s then that Reece’s nickname for her – Warrior – feels even more poignant.
But there’s another, even more powerful, meaning to the title. Josh and Reece both challenge Kati’s church in many ways, and particularly in the area of the power of prayer. The events that unfold in this trio’s lives – as well as the life of their church – challenge all of us to take more prayer seriously, to see it for what it is: a weapon against the spiritual forces of evil that we and those around us battle every day.
We’ve all lived so long with Satan’s attacks that we no longer see them as such. We possess weapons of divine power that can demolish strongholds, and yet we don’t use them. Prayer, praise, God’s word. The name of Jesus. Weapons. He’s calling us our of our comfort zones, out of our safe zones, and asking if we are willing to take up the fight for our families, our neighbors, and for Him.
I also really appreciated the way Rodante elevated the discussion about stereotypes we tend to apply to socio-economic status, backgrounds, neighborhoods, intentions – all even without realizing it. Especially, I think, in ‘church work’. Through some of the events and discussions that play out in this story, the author helped me sit back and reflect on ways I can be more aware of – and avoid – this mindset in the future.
Bottom Line: Warrior by Linda Rodante is moving and inspiring. Four people (three main characters and a fourth supporting player) who, at the outset, could not appear more different from each other, yet in the heart are more alike than they realize. The suspense is well-done, with scenes that will have you holding your breath until the danger has passed (for now), and the characters are vividly drawn. While it does contain two elements that I typically avoid in books (a love triangle and more than a few ‘preachy’ moments), in this context both work to deepen the story and leave an impression on your heart.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
This is book #1 in the Dangerous series. However this book can be read as a standalone. I loved this book and it's characters. It delves deep into spiritual warfare which a lot of Christians do not understand. It lets us know that there can be a price to pay when we get down to business fighting the spirits of darkness and evil. Josh is a new Assistant Pastor in town along with his friend Reese who have decided to take on the neighborhood and win them to Christ. Kati becomes involved and also in danger. This really kept me turning pages and I wouldn't put it down until the end. There is also romance involved for those of you who like a little romance in your lives. If you like this kind of book be sure to get a copy. You won't be sorry. I highly recommend it.
My review today is on the Romantic Suspense, Warrior. This is the seventh book in the Dangerous Series. I have never read any of Linda's books before but I hope to read more of her work. This story really spoke to me as we are in the process of finding a new pastor. Ours has retired and we are believing for a man with vision that will take us to the next level. We are a soul winning church, a small Christian school, and a small group of people that love God. I really appreciated this story. We don't have a homeless population but there are hurting people here. This book is well written, full of scripture to help us rise up, and a call to action. I know you are going to love this book.
Katie Walsh has taken up kickboxing as a form of self protection. She is sparring with her trainer when two men show up to take her to the church. The men were different than the men she knows. One was tall and lean and one was shorter but muscular. the shorter one is covered in tattoos. Both men were very good looking. Her trainer asked for ID and she knows the name of the new assistant pastor.
Joshua Corbin has been hired as the assistant pastor. He and his friend has moved into the poor neighborhood. The senior pastor is out of town attending his brother's funeral. The pastor had told him to pick up Katie, she would be able to help him with anything he needed. Josh has spent the last three years on the street ministering to the homeless and gangs. His vision is why the pastor has hired him. Josh is drawn to the beauty but feels he doesn't have time for a relationship, souls are more important.
Reece Jerigan is Joshua's best friend. He had saved his life three years ago. He came with Josh to help with Josh's vision. He doesn't feel called to this place but he is called to keep Josh safe and help him. He will stay and help until God shows him what he is called to do. Reece is drawn to the beautiful kickboxer but knows he is unworthy of her. She needs someone like Josh.
These three souls are drawn to be warriors in God's Army but soon come up against the enemy. The enemy doesn't want to give up his hold on the neighborhood. God has a plan for these three, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you too, a plan for a hope and a future. Give Him your heart and watch Him move through your mess.
What a great read! In leading an adult Bible study, we've just started the book of Acts. This book was a perfect companion to that study.
Kati Walsh attends a new place of worship to recover from church-inflicted wounds. (How many know that one can be hurt in church?)
Assistant Pastor Josh Corbin and his friend Reece Jernigan plan to win a most-dangerous neighborhood for Jesus. Kati isn't so sure about this. Neither is the congregation. The police are wary.
Josh insists prayer works. He moves into spiritual warfare.
The lesson I received from this book is when one steps out, the hand of God will be seen. Maybe not in a way the person expects but in a design to change eternity for someone or someones. We're called not to protect our lives but to live for Christ. Warrior brought that message out in an adventurous way. I was glued to the pages. It's a story I'll long remember and already miss the characters.
Hopefully, Linda will write more books on this topic. 5-Stars
Second Read What a great read! Could have come right out of the Biblical, book of Acts.
Kati Walsh attends a new place of worship to recover from church-inflicted wounds. Assistant Pastor Josh Corbin and his friend Reece Jernigan plan to win a dangerous neighborhood for Jesus. Kati isn't sure about this. Neither is the congregation. The police are wary. The tension is high. The Pastor is determined. He moves into spiritual warfare. "For the weapons of our warfare are not of this world but are mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds." 2 Corinthians 10:4
Living in the Kingdom of God is an adventure. That is seen on the pages of "Warrior." I was glued to the book and enjoyed the plot. The characters are ones I'd love to be in church with. I'll remember them for a long time. I give five stars to books when I miss the characters after the last page is read. Warrior is definitely a five-star book.
Often books are labeled Christian simply because characters identify as Christian and the books are sweet and clean. This book is first and foremost a story of faith and secondarily a romance. The characters are involved in real spiritual warfare that could lead to physical warfare in battling Satan working through neighborhood gangs. I do not like romantic triangles, but I think that was part of the spiritual warfare. The story was intense with moments of sadness and loss, but the conclusion was victory in Christ. It makes me wonder if my own faith is strong enough to fight the battle these characters fought.
Warrior is a fantastic book showing the battle against good and evil plus having a second chance at love. If you read the Dangerous series,each book can be read as a stand alone but reading each in order adds an enhancement to the series. I loved the well crafted book,the suspense ,twists and turns. The characters were compelling and I found myself crying,especially at the end. This book is highly recommended for those who love Christian romantic suspense with a strong inspirational message. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
I've really enjoyed reading this book. It the first book of Spiritual Warfare series, and also a Contemporary Christian Romantic Suspense.
It was a book based on Bible verses, and I understand one more time the meaning of action and the power of prayer. The message of this book is more than a romantic story, it is about fighting against the Evil. It is like a wake-up call.
“We’ve all lived so long with Satan’s attacks that we no longer see them as such. Sickness, alcoholism, pornography, drug addiction, theft, rape, murder. These things are rampant today—perhaps in our lives personally—and yet we fight them with our own or society’s solutions. We possess weapons of divine power that can demolish strongholds, and yet we don’t use them.
Prayer, praise God’s Word. The name of Jesus. Weapons. The Enemy can even keep you so busy you have no time to do God’s work. Have we asked God for his discernment in our lives? Think about it.
Next time you’re sick or discouraged or afraid or worried, try praising God. Lift your voice. Thank him. Sing praises to him. God inhabits the praises of his people. Not because he needs it, but because we need it. His presence fills us with power and joy and awe. See if the depression or worry doesn’t leave. Let it be a training ground into bigger warfare.
I’m new here, so please listen carefully. I’m not saying stop taking your medicine or quit your counselling sessions. But I am asking you to search yourself. Where are you today, spiritually? Are you tired? Are you on the shelf? Would you like the fire of Christ in your life? Again or for the first time?”
It is the first book I've ever read as fiction which is very strong-based on the Bible.
I recommend this book for all my friends and family. I hope you all enjoy it.
*I was provided with a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a review. So all opinions in this review are my own.
I enjoyed this story. The characters were believable. The plot was plausible, ripped from today's headlines. And the spiritual warfare was perfect. Not overdone or underdone for this story.
The setting is a local congregation. There are two heroes, one heroine, and several supporting characters. My favorite scenes were the church services. During the preaching, I wanted to stand and shout, "Yes! Praise the Lord!" The call to service, I cried, "Lord, help us." And during the prayers, I whispered, "Yes, Lord."
One of my favorite quotes came from Pedro. "Are those in our neighborhood not worthy of your love and concern? Where is this Christianity you talk about? Is it only for you? Your family and no one else? Or is it for everyone, as Jesus has said?"
Although the suspense and the spiritual threads were more than satisfying, I wasn't crazy about the romance thread. However, I am incredibly picky when it comes to this subject. As a reader, I know what I like and don't like. As a writer, I struggle in this area. I suggest reading the book for yourself.
This review is based on the suspense and the spiritual threads alone. And for those two threads, I give the book 5 stars because it made me question my love for others and my willingness to share the gospel. Am I doing enough?
In Warrior, Linda shares the truth of the Word and explains how to wield the weapons of the Spirit. Through her characters, she teaches us how to love the lost in our communities. I seldom find a book that challenges my heart and mind as much as this one did. It's been two weeks, and I can still hear several quotes.
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC and truly loved the story. Although I am not a kickboxer I am a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do so when I read the description I knew I would love this story. Thank you Linda Rodante for allowing me to read and review for this book it is a wonderful read.
There is a new assistant Pastor in town and he brought a friend.
Katie had been attending New Life Church for awhile and was very content with her life. But when the new Assit. Pastor wants to move outside their comfort zone ministry wise, she is not sure what to think but is willing to help as much as possible and see where God leads them. Josh already knows that God wants to work through New Life in a different way then what they are used to and his job may be an slightly uphill battle since the Senior Pastor is out of town to take care of a family matter. Josh begins immediately because he knows time is short. Reece Jernigan is not quite sure why he followed Josh to this church, not sure of his purpose except he know he is supposed to keep his mind and spirit open to what the Lord wants of him. Reece slowly begins to see that the Lord is changing the people of the church and neighborhood but he struggles to see what his purpose is until a bad situation takes a fatal turn.
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC and truly loved the story. Although I am not a kickboxer I am a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do so when I read the description I knew I would love this story. Thank you Linda Rodante for allowing me to read and review for this book it is a wonderful read.
This book astonished me with its depth and power! From the description I expected a story with some God and light romance. Boy, was I in for a surprise! The spiritual warfare scenes were very inspiring (fans of War Room will love this aspect), the gang and danger elements are high interest and fast moving, and the characters' application of memory verses is amazing. It is clear that the author has such a heart for all people, and especially those involved in gangs and dangerous neighborhoods. I'm usually super sensitive to violence and scary scenes, and this book covered the necessary danger without giving me nightmares, so I recommend this for high school and adults (the weighty themes may be too much for younger teens). Also, I don't read much romance, so I was pleased that the romance in Warrior was clean and mild. Excellent characters, cool plot, amazing takeaway. Once in awhile I see a review for a Christian book in which the reviewer complains about being preached at. The strong Christian elements in Warrior completely inspired me, but readers who don't like a book rich in Scripture, prayer, and evidence of God's grace may not love Warrior. I highly recommend this read to mature readers of Christian fiction.
WARRIOR is book one in author Linda K Rodante’s spiritual warfare series.
Joshua Corbin is the new assistant pastor at New Life Church in Florida. Miss Eleanor is the 88-Year-old prayer warrior. Joshua wants a radical belief for God in the church. He does this by teaching members how to prayer walk.
There is a spiritual battle we all need to be aware of. The author has done an excellent job writing about spiritual warfare without going too deep.
I recommend this novel for readers who enjoy suspense, with a bit of romance. I look forward to reading book two of the series. These are relatively short books and can be read over a couple of days or less.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
The first book I've read from this author and definitely not the last!
What a great book, it has all the elements of a good romantic suspense novel, and then is loaded with scripture and the characters ideas of how to live out those scriptures. It is written in a way that doesn't feel preachy, and leaves you thinking about your own action or inaction. A very enjoyable book. That may also challenge some stereotypes. The romance is clean but by no means clinical... and the suspense is enough to keep things interesting but not have you diving under a blanket. A standalone story, that starts off the series (although it is linked to a previous series I would now like to read, the story is complete without reading it).
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator done a fantastic job. This book was real life. If you want to be touch by a story listen/read this one. There are more spiritual aspects in this book than most. So if you are scared of scriptures you best pass on this book. You better get your tissues ready for a good cry too. I love a book that gets where people actually live. There is danger, an element of mystery and romance. The romance was not overpowering to me. This would be a wonderful movie if they wouldn’t take out parts of it or change it. I was given a complimentary copy of the audiobook by the author but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This is my first book by Ms Rodante. I read one of her stories in an anthology and decided to read a full book and I am so glad I did. She is going to be another of my favorites and am looking forward to the next book! The subject of our Spiritual Armor is near and dear to my heart. I love the way she uses it as a living, breathing part of God's Word and shows, boldly, it's very practical use as well as putting God's love first and foremost. Also, this is even more timely and timeless now than when she wrote it just as any truly inspired work is supposed to be. Keep up the good work, Ms Rodante! God bless you!
I wish I could give 10 stars! Inspirational and thought-provoking! The story grabs your attention from page one. I stayed up during the night captivated by the story line and characters’ personal challenges. Their spiritual battles were relatable and tugged at my heart. I couldn’t wait to finish and yet I didn’t want it to end. “Don’t let Jesus’ sacrifice be for nothing. A God who loves you unconditionally, who accepts you just as you are, is waiting for you. Step out of your comfort zone and away from your fear, and step into the abundant life awaiting you.”
Having read and loved the second book in the series first, I figured I'd like this book, too. That Linda K. Rodante is consistent in her style and the powerful message she shares makes me excessively happy. We need more authors with this kind of courage. Her characters are relatable and their stories, arresting. I hate putting these books down. If you want a book with a powerful, encouraging message and characters you can relate to and love, then you should definitely check out this book.
Warrior is a romantic suspense with a strong spiritual message. There is evil in the world and we need covering by God. He gives us spiritual weapons to fight the enemy. This book reminded me somewhat of This Present Darkness in that regard. This book had action, romance and great characters I really enjoyed it. *I was given a copy of this book by the author. I was not required to leave a review. This is my honest opinion.
Warrior is another great book by Linda. This series has been a good addition to my collection in my library of wholesome books. The characters, Kati, Joshua, and Reece have entertained and at times brought me to tears. The strong message of God's leading and the conflicts in warfare Christians face, came alive. Thank you, Linda, for writing characters that are true to life and live through difficult circumstances. I highly recommend this and all of Linda's books.
I found this to be very enjoyable and intriguing book. The characters are quite believable and very interesting. The story moves along well and keeps the reader engaged. I enjoyed the Christian aspect to this book; spiritual warfare is certainly real and something we fight regularly.
The narrative was done really well.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
I enjoyed this story as it's the characters and plot were great and the plot was plausible. A pastor Joshua has a vision for the church and starts prayer-walking, wanting to reach the community which involves gang members. The message is powerful because it encourages believers not to stay comfortable and play church but to actually BE the church and reach out to the lost. This story has romance, heartache, sacrifice, struggles, and encouragement.
Following God is always an adventure. The characters in this book experience adventures in faith , spiritual opposition , and challenges that cause them to grow . An enjoyable book , with unexpected twists in the plot, and provokes the reader to think about what is really important in life .
4.5 star. Challenging read which raises many questions about what it means to be out among the hurting. Loved the focus on prayer and spiritual warfare. I've read two other books by this author. This is a huge improvement in terms of writing and cover. Keep writing! For those who like their books grittier and full of the pain of real life.
Loved this book. Kati, Reece, and Josh were warriors for Christ,just like we should be. Our everyday lives doing what God wants us to do, lead others to him,show love, give help where we can. Excellent story and scriptures about stepping out of our comfort zones and doing what we need to in this battle for the Lord. It’s about never giving up, leaning on Jesus and prayer lots of it!!!
An unusual cast of characters including "church folk," (who talk the talk), gang members (who are all 'bout the gang life) warriors for the Lord vying for control of a lower class neighborhood. Lots of scripture, real life problems, success and failure mixed together with a little romance.
I didn't finish reading this book, something I rarely do, and when I do, I don't write a review. I do not like Christian novels to include details of intimacy. It just gets the mind going on the wrong direction.
Each scripture was an answer to each chapter, or a insight to what was happening. And I enjoyed reading the scripture , loved it. Very interesting,and so light that the tragedy was unexpected. Looking forward to reading the next book.
This book is filled with grace, romance , friendship, suspense and the love of God! Parts of it made me want to cry. It shows no matter what we believe of ourselves God loves us unconditionally and uses us for His glory. I definitely recommend it!!
I can't recommend this book enough! I'm not even sure I have the words to say how good this book is! The characters are so real, I caught myself wanting to pray for them. Can't wait to read the next in series!