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Not Again #1
Not Again
Christina De Rosa holds a potentially deadly secret that threatens to get out. As an innocent young teenager, Christina survives a terrifying sexual assault that destroys her self-worth and trust.
In her daily struggle, Christina searches for ways to keep her torment at bay, so she can function as a "normal" teenager. Meanwhile, Christina's spiritual journey leads her down a path causing conflict within, as she's riddled with guilt and shame.
A chance encounter with her longtime, hot crush, Avery Evans, sparks a fire in Christina that she can't extinguish. As the sweet, loving, knight in shining armor he readily portrays, Avery offers the safety and security that Christina craves.
In her quest for internal peace, Christina must make a decision. Will she give her heart, body and soul to the super popular, Avery Evans?
Will Christina's nightmares become all-consuming or will her discoveries lead her to a renewed way of life?
Find out if true love triumphs in this edgy, faith-based young adult page-tuner, set in the 1980s.
*Not Again is NOT your typical Christian coming of age story. Fierce faith doesn't come without a fight. Prepare for heartache, self-harm, traumatic events, real romance, and actual scripture in these pages.
In her daily struggle, Christina searches for ways to keep her torment at bay, so she can function as a "normal" teenager. Meanwhile, Christina's spiritual journey leads her down a path causing conflict within, as she's riddled with guilt and shame.
A chance encounter with her longtime, hot crush, Avery Evans, sparks a fire in Christina that she can't extinguish. As the sweet, loving, knight in shining armor he readily portrays, Avery offers the safety and security that Christina craves.
In her quest for internal peace, Christina must make a decision. Will she give her heart, body and soul to the super popular, Avery Evans?
Will Christina's nightmares become all-consuming or will her discoveries lead her to a renewed way of life?
Find out if true love triumphs in this edgy, faith-based young adult page-tuner, set in the 1980s.
*Not Again is NOT your typical Christian coming of age story. Fierce faith doesn't come without a fight. Prepare for heartache, self-harm, traumatic events, real romance, and actual scripture in these pages.
423 pages, ebook
First published August 12, 2019
15 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 6, 2020
This was an excellent book and I hope the author writes a sequel because she has plenty of room to continue this story. Even though the story takes place in the 80's there will always be peer pressure among teenagers - especially about sex. Drugs are more prominent now but sex is always around. The author handled the subject very well and even though it was difficult for Christina, eventually she was able to seek God's help in guiding her out of a bad situation. Too many times kids are given a bad rap but when given the opportunity they will make the right decision. Please read this book - it is well worth your time.
October 7, 2020
This book was really good the life of a teenager and her ups and downs .The main character Christina has been through rape and school bullying and finds love and all seems to be going well and she finds her faith and then her life is shattered again
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2019
Being a teenager is a challenging time in a young person's life. It comes with changes that are sometimes difficult to adjust to and be content with in their lives. This novel takes the reader into the life of Christina De Rosa and her journey through those "teen" years. The social pressures and teenager drama can be very hard to cope with. Add a deep, dark secret that fear of exposure would ruin her life, Christina has to find her way in this emotionally and spiritually filled story.
This story is set in the 1980s and Christina is facing the age old, typical teen challenges of starting high school, hanging out with friends, to date or not to date, finding out just who the person she really is. Christina is a beautiful young lady and she is asked to be a contestant in the local Miss Blue Lagoon beauty pageant which she reluctantly agrees to enter. This is the beginning of a string of events that forms Christina's future. An unimaginable assault that destroys her self worth and the fears that drag her into deep, dark places on the inside but acting like she's just fine on the outside. "Bottling up the pain, the frustration, confusion, sadness, anger, disappointment, and betrayal ate away at my confidence and my joy. Believing I was worthless had become the beginning of the end."
The characters in this book range through a variety of personalities. Just like typical teens are. I connected with Christina. She was written with depth and emotions that most teens would relate to. She wants to be her own self but that's violently taken away. Ms. Henriksen took me on this rugged path with Christina to put the pieces of her life back together. There are characters who are there for Christina, like Avery. "I wanted him to fill the void I felt-the unworthiness, the guilt, the shame. I wanted him to stop the pain, the anguish, the torture I continued to suffer day after day, as I unwillingly and uncontrollably relived that real-life nightmare." He's her rock and support who gives her life value. She has best friends who look out for her. Then there are the characters who challenge her and are a nemesis that also help form the person she becomes.
This book is a story of a spiritual battle within Christina. It's one that isn't easy. Why does God allow things to happen? Where is He when things are falling apart? I appreciate the scripture passages that Ms. Henriksen weaves through the story at the perfect place for the message to come forth. This book delves into issues that are difficult. There are scenes that made me cringe and cry for Christina. There are situations that most teens face and the choices they make that can change their lives drastically. I love the message in this book that each individual can choose their destiny through their faith and belief in God.
I think this book is inspiring in that there is a way to overcome. It's one that I would recommend to older teens particularly because of the subject matter and situations Christina finds herself in. It's a challenge to young women to be true to themselves and be the person God created them to be.
I hope and pray the message Ms. Henriksen shares resonates with many readers. It has spoken to my heart even though it's been many years since I was a teen facing many of the same situations. God's word is eternal. I want to thank Ms. Henriksen for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This story is set in the 1980s and Christina is facing the age old, typical teen challenges of starting high school, hanging out with friends, to date or not to date, finding out just who the person she really is. Christina is a beautiful young lady and she is asked to be a contestant in the local Miss Blue Lagoon beauty pageant which she reluctantly agrees to enter. This is the beginning of a string of events that forms Christina's future. An unimaginable assault that destroys her self worth and the fears that drag her into deep, dark places on the inside but acting like she's just fine on the outside. "Bottling up the pain, the frustration, confusion, sadness, anger, disappointment, and betrayal ate away at my confidence and my joy. Believing I was worthless had become the beginning of the end."
The characters in this book range through a variety of personalities. Just like typical teens are. I connected with Christina. She was written with depth and emotions that most teens would relate to. She wants to be her own self but that's violently taken away. Ms. Henriksen took me on this rugged path with Christina to put the pieces of her life back together. There are characters who are there for Christina, like Avery. "I wanted him to fill the void I felt-the unworthiness, the guilt, the shame. I wanted him to stop the pain, the anguish, the torture I continued to suffer day after day, as I unwillingly and uncontrollably relived that real-life nightmare." He's her rock and support who gives her life value. She has best friends who look out for her. Then there are the characters who challenge her and are a nemesis that also help form the person she becomes.
This book is a story of a spiritual battle within Christina. It's one that isn't easy. Why does God allow things to happen? Where is He when things are falling apart? I appreciate the scripture passages that Ms. Henriksen weaves through the story at the perfect place for the message to come forth. This book delves into issues that are difficult. There are scenes that made me cringe and cry for Christina. There are situations that most teens face and the choices they make that can change their lives drastically. I love the message in this book that each individual can choose their destiny through their faith and belief in God.
I think this book is inspiring in that there is a way to overcome. It's one that I would recommend to older teens particularly because of the subject matter and situations Christina finds herself in. It's a challenge to young women to be true to themselves and be the person God created them to be.
I hope and pray the message Ms. Henriksen shares resonates with many readers. It has spoken to my heart even though it's been many years since I was a teen facing many of the same situations. God's word is eternal. I want to thank Ms. Henriksen for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 25, 2020
Most of this book focused on the reality teenagers frequently face in their dating relationships. This book can help them to understand the types of situations that can tempt them to break their commitments to wait until marriage before having sex.
I did not like the rape scene but it is a real part of helping women who have experienced this.
I found myself transported back to high school as I read Not Again. It was not an easy or happy time for me but reading this story gave me a chance to release some of these unpleasant remembrances and heal a little. I was impressed with how well the author portrayed the moods and attitudes I remember.
I do not want to ruin this book for you. There is a great podcast interview, I enjoyed listening to, which tells more of the author’s writing story. It was fascinating. I look forward to reading her next book, Not Again, The Fallout!
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Enter the limited-time giveaway and read more about the author and book background on Book of Ruth Ann!
I did not like the rape scene but it is a real part of helping women who have experienced this.
I found myself transported back to high school as I read Not Again. It was not an easy or happy time for me but reading this story gave me a chance to release some of these unpleasant remembrances and heal a little. I was impressed with how well the author portrayed the moods and attitudes I remember.
I do not want to ruin this book for you. There is a great podcast interview, I enjoyed listening to, which tells more of the author’s writing story. It was fascinating. I look forward to reading her next book, Not Again, The Fallout!
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Enter the limited-time giveaway and read more about the author and book background on Book of Ruth Ann!
July 21, 2020
A Christian Genre Bender of a teenage girl whose morals are challenged but are overcome with faith.
I laughed, I cried, this book lifted me up and I absolutely loved this unique book genre-a Christian genre bender. I had no idea what that would entail, until I read the book. This book was written wonderfully, and you will fall in love with many of the characters.
This book brought back a nostalgia of memories going through middle and high school.
This is a great read for YA and for adults/parents to remember what it was like growing up as a teenager. With possible trigger warnings, makes for a great conversation to bring up some important topics for families, so YA can have a level of trust knowing they can talk to parents about some tough subjects. Lots of great morals to this story, including having an open heart and building faith, to get through some tough times. Enjoyed that this was a Faith genre bender, which I believe we need more of.
I believe Maria Henriksen executed this Christian genre bender, extremely well and believe she started an unique genre, that will pique others interest and that there will be more to come!
Thank you Maria, for this opportunity to read and explore this book!
I laughed, I cried, this book lifted me up and I absolutely loved this unique book genre-a Christian genre bender. I had no idea what that would entail, until I read the book. This book was written wonderfully, and you will fall in love with many of the characters.
This book brought back a nostalgia of memories going through middle and high school.
This is a great read for YA and for adults/parents to remember what it was like growing up as a teenager. With possible trigger warnings, makes for a great conversation to bring up some important topics for families, so YA can have a level of trust knowing they can talk to parents about some tough subjects. Lots of great morals to this story, including having an open heart and building faith, to get through some tough times. Enjoyed that this was a Faith genre bender, which I believe we need more of.
I believe Maria Henriksen executed this Christian genre bender, extremely well and believe she started an unique genre, that will pique others interest and that there will be more to come!
Thank you Maria, for this opportunity to read and explore this book!
March 12, 2020
A very touching and heartwarming story of a young girls struggles of love, friendship, a secret, family and faith. Once you start reading it, you will feel as if you are right there watching, hearing and living it with her. A book that will hold your interest from start to finish. Thank you Maria T. Henriksen for giving me a chance to review such a wonderful book. "NOT AGAIN is by far one of the best books about a teenager that I have ever read."
August 17, 2019
Not Again is an intense Young Adult Romance with strong themes of Christian Faith and emotional growth.
The main character, Christina, is a likable, quirky teenager enjoying life when a series of awkward events leads to a traumatic experience. Friendship and a youthful romance help her recover somewhat, but even if she can’t trust the people who care about her with her whole heart and all its pain, she will have to decide if she can trust God with it.
Christina and her journey feel very real, authentic, and relatable in both joys and struggles. Consequently, her path to faith seems believable too. The rather large cast of supporting characters is peppered with familiar personalities as well, and they serve to immerse the reader in the story’s ‘80s adolescent world.
Overall, Not Again is a deep, impactful novel and, with its topics of faith, sexual purity, trauma, and recovery, it would likely be a beneficial read for young women. However, it has mature language and fairly descriptive intimacy in a few places, so parental guidance is advisable.
(I received this book as an advanced copy, but was not obligated to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.)
The main character, Christina, is a likable, quirky teenager enjoying life when a series of awkward events leads to a traumatic experience. Friendship and a youthful romance help her recover somewhat, but even if she can’t trust the people who care about her with her whole heart and all its pain, she will have to decide if she can trust God with it.
Christina and her journey feel very real, authentic, and relatable in both joys and struggles. Consequently, her path to faith seems believable too. The rather large cast of supporting characters is peppered with familiar personalities as well, and they serve to immerse the reader in the story’s ‘80s adolescent world.
Overall, Not Again is a deep, impactful novel and, with its topics of faith, sexual purity, trauma, and recovery, it would likely be a beneficial read for young women. However, it has mature language and fairly descriptive intimacy in a few places, so parental guidance is advisable.
(I received this book as an advanced copy, but was not obligated to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.)
January 6, 2022
This book is a realistic portrayal of a teen’s struggle with her faith in the face of trauma. Some reviews say it’s not appropriate or Christian, but I disagree. While some scenes may be hard to read due to the traumatic nature of what’s happening, these things do, in fact, happen in our society. Unfortunately, thousands of girls and women face these harsh realities every day. Mental health struggles should be discussed among Christians, even if they’re hard to talk about. This book could prove extremely beneficial for anyone, especially a teen, that’s found themselves in similar situations, and that makes it an important piece of literature. I found that the ending left me with questions and things I wished I would’ve seen. Being vague to avoid spoilers, I longed for justice, explanations for unexpected behavior, and sadness for things that didn’t work out. However, real life isn’t like that. We don’t always get the happy endings to every situation. We don’t always get answers, and we don’t always get justice. I’ve seen news where the author has a sequel in the works, so perhaps I’ll see those answers there. Either way, I’m excited to see the next chapter of Christina’s life.
January 28, 2021
This is not typically a book I read. I'm prone to horror and the macabre and have been since I was a teen, but I was fascinated by the prospect of participating in a book club. I loved the 80s touch as it brought back fond memories of my teen years. "Gag me with a spoon" made me lmao. I'm a strong Christian woman and see far too many people who don't know Christ, especially teenagers! It was refreshing to read a book by an author who is unafraid to open Jesus' world to young readers. It's Discipling at its best - telling the story with crisis involved and showing teens how they can lean on Him for help and comfort during trying times. I was somewhat disappointed that some things felt unfinished and unexplained. Didn't know there's another book in the works to bring it all together, even though I'm not one of those readers who's into series books or trilogies. I found the series marking inside the edition page. Suggest author puts it in the book description so the reader is aware beforehand.
January 29, 2023
Not Again was a novel that stayed with me from beginning to end. I loved the different elements and emotions Not Again portrayed. Not Again showed teenagers as real as they come. Compassionate and uncouth,cruel and kind.
Not Again is a novel that will make you think. The element of faith resonates throughout the novel and is beautifully woven in. The scripture is comforting and familiar. Christina,Avery,and the other teenagers are on their journey of discovery as we all once were and still are.
Not Again helped me learn a few things about myself and even brought back some memories that made me laugh and some that made me struggle when I was a teenager myself.
Maria T Henriksen did a very nice job of putting into words the obstacles teenagers face daily and how to overcome them.
Not Again is a novel that will make you think. The element of faith resonates throughout the novel and is beautifully woven in. The scripture is comforting and familiar. Christina,Avery,and the other teenagers are on their journey of discovery as we all once were and still are.
Not Again helped me learn a few things about myself and even brought back some memories that made me laugh and some that made me struggle when I was a teenager myself.
Maria T Henriksen did a very nice job of putting into words the obstacles teenagers face daily and how to overcome them.
June 8, 2020
Life is a bundle of experiences that can bring one up or bring one low. A young teenaged girl finds this out in dramatic ways in Maria Henriksen’s Christian faith based novel “Not Again”
One horrible day changes a young woman forever. She is pulled down a terrifying path that physically and mentally changes who she is. Her days and nights are plagued with fear and self worth questioning. Yet she comes to realize God has love in many ways in store for her. People come into her life she didn’t figure on and bring her hope and love.
This novel brought tears and joy to my eyes. Henriksen has a way with words that bring the story into focus for readers to enjoy and be uplifted by. When looking for a new and rewarding read, put this book on top of your list!
One horrible day changes a young woman forever. She is pulled down a terrifying path that physically and mentally changes who she is. Her days and nights are plagued with fear and self worth questioning. Yet she comes to realize God has love in many ways in store for her. People come into her life she didn’t figure on and bring her hope and love.
This novel brought tears and joy to my eyes. Henriksen has a way with words that bring the story into focus for readers to enjoy and be uplifted by. When looking for a new and rewarding read, put this book on top of your list!
January 30, 2019
First, I want to thank Maria Henriksen for providing me with this book, all opinions expressed in this review are my own. This is a very well written book that will hold your attention from beginning to end. This is a book that you don't want to end, but you just have to know what's going to happen next. It is written in such a way that you feel all the emotions of the people in the story. It has drama, suspense and romance and is told from a young girl's point of view from freshman year to senior year. I highly recommend this book.
January 31, 2019
Not quite sure if you read the book or not but it was absolutely amazing from beginning to end. Maria grabbed my attention from
The moment that I opened the book til I put it down.Being able to relate and had slmelc the same experiences made me feel more comfortable in my own skin despite me being a young African American young lady. I high recommend this to other readers.
The moment that I opened the book til I put it down.Being able to relate and had slmelc the same experiences made me feel more comfortable in my own skin despite me being a young African American young lady. I high recommend this to other readers.
September 8, 2020
Such a great book from a new author! I look forward to reading more of her books.
I liked that this story is set in the 1980s as I was a teen and young adult then. I love the references to the 80s.
Parts of this were difficult for me to read as I, too, am a survivor of sexual assault and rape as a child. Overall, it's a great story and Maria does the subject justice.
I liked that this story is set in the 1980s as I was a teen and young adult then. I love the references to the 80s.
Parts of this were difficult for me to read as I, too, am a survivor of sexual assault and rape as a child. Overall, it's a great story and Maria does the subject justice.
July 28, 2020
I really enjoyed reading Maria’s first novel. This book is told from the point of view of a young girl as she comes of age. I loved being inside of Christina’s head throughout the story and truly being able to understand her point of view and feel the feelings she feels. There is much humor throughout, as Christina’s perceptions can be funny & wry, but the overall story is poignant and touching, as Christina journeys through life’s difficulties and triumphs, and becomes a strong young woman, who finds faith, and gains the strength and independence she needs to persevere through them. The character development was phenomenal, and there are many interesting characters throughout the story. And the 80’s setting was fun and nostalgic, as there were many references from my childhood, that I had forgotten about, but Maria captured them amazingly. I enjoyed the Christian theme of book, and found it inspiring and refreshing, as it was very relatable for me, a Catholic, who sometimes questions my faith. What a wonderful and fun read this was and what an amazing first novel for Maria!
March 29, 2021
This was a great YA Christian book read!
It shows a realistic vantage point from the main teenage girl’s character, Christina DeRosa’s point of view! There are relatable teenage issues involving Avery Evans and her friends & peers & a very tragic dark moment as well!
I found this story just as relatable today as it was back int the 80’s, which is the setting in this book!
The best part of the story is how a young teenager who once knew God, or thought she did, pulled away from him, but finds her way back through the roughest & darkest moments of her life! Christina finds out, along with others, and a special relationship with Miss Brenda, that through the love of God & love of others that there is light and hope!
This is a story of coming of age and shows teenagers signs of adolescence, peer pressure, bullying & survival! But not survival because they made it through but survival because they learned more about God and how to respect themselves, their bodies & others! They learn about the forgiveness that only God can bring us and love that God can teach us to triumph anything!
Looking forward to a sequel to see where life & God has taken them!
It shows a realistic vantage point from the main teenage girl’s character, Christina DeRosa’s point of view! There are relatable teenage issues involving Avery Evans and her friends & peers & a very tragic dark moment as well!
I found this story just as relatable today as it was back int the 80’s, which is the setting in this book!
The best part of the story is how a young teenager who once knew God, or thought she did, pulled away from him, but finds her way back through the roughest & darkest moments of her life! Christina finds out, along with others, and a special relationship with Miss Brenda, that through the love of God & love of others that there is light and hope!
This is a story of coming of age and shows teenagers signs of adolescence, peer pressure, bullying & survival! But not survival because they made it through but survival because they learned more about God and how to respect themselves, their bodies & others! They learn about the forgiveness that only God can bring us and love that God can teach us to triumph anything!
Looking forward to a sequel to see where life & God has taken them!
July 12, 2021
Author Maria T. Henriksen brings to life the story of a young teenaged girl in the early 1980s. Readers follow the main character, Christina De Rosa, on her teenaged journey in a gritty look at the issues young people can face. The reality of what young people can be up against is a main premise in Not Again. Henriksen captures these moments in a forthright manner, from tragedy to triumph, without glossing over the hard parts.
Readers will be challenged as they watch Christina deal with life altering events as she tries to reconcile her anguish from those events with her moral struggles. Such challenges are difficult enough for adults but are even more difficult for a younger teen like Christina as she attempts to navigate the hard knocks life throws her. This journey is one readers will remember long after the book ends.
Kudos to Maria T. Henriksen for being unafraid to tackle the hard topics within the faith based genre. While parts of Not Again may be difficult for readers to read, the ultimate premise of the book is more than enough reason to keep reading. Ultimately, books should challenge readers to look at the world differently. Ms. Henriksen provides just the book to do so.
Readers will be challenged as they watch Christina deal with life altering events as she tries to reconcile her anguish from those events with her moral struggles. Such challenges are difficult enough for adults but are even more difficult for a younger teen like Christina as she attempts to navigate the hard knocks life throws her. This journey is one readers will remember long after the book ends.
Kudos to Maria T. Henriksen for being unafraid to tackle the hard topics within the faith based genre. While parts of Not Again may be difficult for readers to read, the ultimate premise of the book is more than enough reason to keep reading. Ultimately, books should challenge readers to look at the world differently. Ms. Henriksen provides just the book to do so.
October 17, 2020
I enjoyed this book very much. It reminded me of my youth and all the confusion and pain that went with it. Many scenes were extremely intense. I would recommend Parents reading this along with their teen, so it can be discussed.
Overall, this was a great read. Christina is a sweet teen with all the growing pain issues. The characters are real and engaging. I found myself drawn into the story and remembering my own youth, along with the music and innocence. The awkwardness of being a teen and loving your first boy, getting your first kiss, while trying to fit in with those around you. Peer pressure was also an issue, and things didn't always go well for Christina.
Innocence is robbed.
Christena finds help through help of her friends, and a newfound faith in God.
It's very much worth the read
Overall, this was a great read. Christina is a sweet teen with all the growing pain issues. The characters are real and engaging. I found myself drawn into the story and remembering my own youth, along with the music and innocence. The awkwardness of being a teen and loving your first boy, getting your first kiss, while trying to fit in with those around you. Peer pressure was also an issue, and things didn't always go well for Christina.
Innocence is robbed.
Christena finds help through help of her friends, and a newfound faith in God.
It's very much worth the read
December 29, 2020
Good book
Loved the style of writing. The flow of the story keeps you turning pages as well as the story itself. You feel like you are right there.
Caution: this story does contain some sexual content and some "taking of God's name in vain". If you are like me (raised in a strict religious home and in the 50's) you might be tempted to quit the book...please don't! The last half to three fourth of the book redeems the first part. Once Christina accepts Christ, her life begins to change and as she grows spiritually you can't help rooting for her. I'm anxious for the sequel to read (the rest of the story).
Loved the style of writing. The flow of the story keeps you turning pages as well as the story itself. You feel like you are right there.
Caution: this story does contain some sexual content and some "taking of God's name in vain". If you are like me (raised in a strict religious home and in the 50's) you might be tempted to quit the book...please don't! The last half to three fourth of the book redeems the first part. Once Christina accepts Christ, her life begins to change and as she grows spiritually you can't help rooting for her. I'm anxious for the sequel to read (the rest of the story).
October 25, 2020
Wow, wow, wow. This book is powerful. A young teen goes from not believing in God, getting raped, cutting, to finding love, finding God, praying, mediating on the Word and being true to herself.
I loved it. I takes me back to when I was young and not really taking the Lords love seriously and then the more I grew, I started to fully understand the Word and praying for myself and for others.
Thank you for this book!
I loved it. I takes me back to when I was young and not really taking the Lords love seriously and then the more I grew, I started to fully understand the Word and praying for myself and for others.
Thank you for this book!
December 31, 2020
Finding your path in a teenage world can be quite challenging. This wonderfully written book kept me turning the pages. I loved stepping back in a time when I grew up and related to the teenage struggles the main characters faced. The great references to the 80s was on point. I love the Christian twist and the verses that lay within the pages!!
January 14, 2022
This story is set in the 80’s. A story of teenage issues, what it was like to be a teen in that era, how to fit in with your peers.A lot of life lessons for a teenager. Plenty of love to go around. Truly a relationship with God is everlasting and is needed by us all. Highly recommend this book. It will take you on a spiritual journey for sure.
July 15, 2021
I just got finished reading Not Again by Maria T. Henriksen , and I definitely recommend this book to all teens and adults. The struggles, and spiritual growth. Learning to forgive, yourself as well as the ones who have caused your grief. Learning to love, relationships and friendship. This book was definitely a page turner, and I shed a few tears. It will lift your spirits and allow you to fall in love with the characters
July 30, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this. I found this book to be inspirational. I love how Christina went on a journey to find her spiritual guidance to become a Christian and let God into her life. My favorite quote is John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he sent his only begotten son, that whoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.
September 26, 2021
This is an excellent, well-written book about a young girl coming of age in the 80s. It is graphic. The young lady goes through a traumatic event. And comes to know Christ. I would recommend this to young ladies in my family.
November 29, 2022
A terrific coming of age story
A terrific coming of age story set in the 1980s that involves teenage love, hormones, friendships, and rivalries amidst a young girl's significant trauma and subsequent struggle in her faith.
The story centers around the comical and beloved Christina, following her through her high school experience where she explores love and faith, while simultaneously trying to heal through the trauma from a brutal attack by a begrudging fellow classmate.
I was elated with how intricately the Author, Maria, tied the scripture into the moments where Christina needed it most as she grew into her faith.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the Author's plugs of 80s themed words, music and activities, which really set the tone for that era.
The book is part of a series, and I had to read both books to give it a fair assessment. This book is book 1 of 2 and does end on a cliffhanger.
Also, I wish to extend a warning to those readers who are sensitive to triggers. This story is gritty and does contain intense subject matter.
A terrific coming of age story set in the 1980s that involves teenage love, hormones, friendships, and rivalries amidst a young girl's significant trauma and subsequent struggle in her faith.
The story centers around the comical and beloved Christina, following her through her high school experience where she explores love and faith, while simultaneously trying to heal through the trauma from a brutal attack by a begrudging fellow classmate.
I was elated with how intricately the Author, Maria, tied the scripture into the moments where Christina needed it most as she grew into her faith.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the Author's plugs of 80s themed words, music and activities, which really set the tone for that era.
The book is part of a series, and I had to read both books to give it a fair assessment. This book is book 1 of 2 and does end on a cliffhanger.
Also, I wish to extend a warning to those readers who are sensitive to triggers. This story is gritty and does contain intense subject matter.
March 28, 2021
A coming of age story that will resonate with many readers young and old, Christina is your typical teenager going through the ups and downs of friendships ,and first love , when a unspeakable act happens to her .With the Grace of God , she finds a way to cope , finds a support system through a very loving mentor and friend. Through her new found faith she finds that she will be able to over come and get through anything .
August 27, 2021
I enjoyed this book on so many levels. It shows a young girl who experiences something horrible and finds healing in God and her faith. It’s beautiful story of healing and transformation.
February 4, 2022
A delightful Christian teaching story for the older teen (due to subject matter).
It shows the struggle of being a Christian teen and following the Lord's teachings in the 80s and relates to current time as well.
It shows the struggle of being a Christian teen and following the Lord's teachings in the 80s and relates to current time as well.
April 3, 2021
Is inspirational, spiritual, and tells it like it is!
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