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The Broken Miracle #1
The Broken Miracle
"I belonged to an exclusive club with only one membership requirement—be born with half a functioning heart."
We take many things for granted—but having a heart isn't one of them. Paul Cardall is an internationally acclaimed pianist whose career has been an inspiration to millions. But before the awards and success, he was just a little boy with half a functioning heart.
Numerous surgeries and many decades later, Paul is building a successful career despite the limitations his condition have infringed upon him. Now a husband and father, it seems that Paul has everything he could have ever hoped for...until his heart begins to fail.
As time passes, the pressure of his waning health and the seemingly endless wait for a new heart test not only Paul's faith, but his marriage and relationships as well. He begins to wonder if luck will ever be on his side or if it's time he let the curtains fall in what could be the final act of his life.
Though characters and places were fictionalized for storytelling purposes, the main events in the duology are real. Drawn from private notes and journals made available to the author, The Broken Miracle is a riveting story that will take the reader on an unforgettable journey.
We take many things for granted—but having a heart isn't one of them. Paul Cardall is an internationally acclaimed pianist whose career has been an inspiration to millions. But before the awards and success, he was just a little boy with half a functioning heart.
Numerous surgeries and many decades later, Paul is building a successful career despite the limitations his condition have infringed upon him. Now a husband and father, it seems that Paul has everything he could have ever hoped for...until his heart begins to fail.
As time passes, the pressure of his waning health and the seemingly endless wait for a new heart test not only Paul's faith, but his marriage and relationships as well. He begins to wonder if luck will ever be on his side or if it's time he let the curtains fall in what could be the final act of his life.
Though characters and places were fictionalized for storytelling purposes, the main events in the duology are real. Drawn from private notes and journals made available to the author, The Broken Miracle is a riveting story that will take the reader on an unforgettable journey.
- GenresFiction
Unknown Binding
First published February 2, 2021
15 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Netto
20 books540 followersJ.D. Netto is a multi-genre bestselling author whose debut fantasy series, The Whispers of the Fallen, became an underground sensation upon its release. He is the founder of Saved by the Page, a movement that encourages readers to share how books have impacted their lives, with select stories compiled into an anthology published in 2018.
J.D. is also known for Henderbell: The Shadow of Saint Nicholas, a speculative fiction novel that explores the cursed bloodline of Father Christmas. His The Broken Miracle duology inspired an album featuring Paul Cardall, David Archuleta, and Tyler Glenn.
In 2022, he released The Echoes of Fallen Stars, a fallen angel fantasy centered on Lucifer’s lost gay son and the secret romance between Lucifer and the Creator. USA Today hailed the series as “a creation that every fantasy lover must have in their collection.”
Beyond fiction, J.D. has compiled his expertise in branding, storytelling, and design into You Are Not for Everybody: An Honest Conversation About Branding, Storytelling, and Narrative. Continuing to push creative boundaries, he is set to release The Other Side of the Ocean, a YA novel inspired by real events, tackling contemporary U.S. immigration issues.
In addition to writing, J.D. is the founder of J.D. Netto Creative, a boutique agency specializing in brand strategy, graphic design, and web design. His work has been featured in OK! Magazine and ABC News. He is represented by Susan Velazquez at JABberwocky Literary.
J.D. is also known for Henderbell: The Shadow of Saint Nicholas, a speculative fiction novel that explores the cursed bloodline of Father Christmas. His The Broken Miracle duology inspired an album featuring Paul Cardall, David Archuleta, and Tyler Glenn.
In 2022, he released The Echoes of Fallen Stars, a fallen angel fantasy centered on Lucifer’s lost gay son and the secret romance between Lucifer and the Creator. USA Today hailed the series as “a creation that every fantasy lover must have in their collection.”
Beyond fiction, J.D. has compiled his expertise in branding, storytelling, and design into You Are Not for Everybody: An Honest Conversation About Branding, Storytelling, and Narrative. Continuing to push creative boundaries, he is set to release The Other Side of the Ocean, a YA novel inspired by real events, tackling contemporary U.S. immigration issues.
In addition to writing, J.D. is the founder of J.D. Netto Creative, a boutique agency specializing in brand strategy, graphic design, and web design. His work has been featured in OK! Magazine and ABC News. He is represented by Susan Velazquez at JABberwocky Literary.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 14, 2020
This a very well written book which is based on the life of my friend Paul Cardall. It is very well done, and as someone whose life was touched by Paul and his music, it was a welcome treat. If you haven't listened to Paul's music, give it a go and read this book by JD Netto, it has hope, which is something the world needs right about now.
February 1, 2021
WOW JUST WOW! This book was beautiful. This book was so emotional that once I started I could not put it down. My review is not going to give this book any justice. Just pick it up and read it!
February 19, 2021
This is a riveting story about an amazing family. Living here in Utah, we are all very familiar with Duane Cardall, Paul’s father, who was a news man on a local television station. But few of us knew the life he was living at home with a child who only had half a functioning heart. It came to light when Paul began recording his music, and of course his dad was perhaps his greatest supporter. But Duane promoted Paul on the basis of his talent. It was only incidentally, and from others, that we Utahns at large found out about Paul’s disability.
The book is quite short and easy to read. The only problem is that it stops way too soon, and I can’t even find a proposed date for when part two will be released. I hope it is soon.
The book is quite short and easy to read. The only problem is that it stops way too soon, and I can’t even find a proposed date for when part two will be released. I hope it is soon.
January 2, 2024
Wow 😭❤️. I loved this book. It’s a must read!
February 11, 2021
So emotional, so sad, but so full of love.
I loved this book can’t wait for part 2
I loved this book can’t wait for part 2
December 7, 2020
***SENT AN E-ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
This is J.D.'s finest work so far, no question about it. I read the entire book in one sitting and was completely blown away. The plot and the writing wove seamlessly to tell a truly beautiful story. By the end, I was crying real tears and was devasted it was over. I truly wish I could read it again for the first time and now I can't wait for my physical copy to arrive.
This is J.D.'s finest work so far, no question about it. I read the entire book in one sitting and was completely blown away. The plot and the writing wove seamlessly to tell a truly beautiful story. By the end, I was crying real tears and was devasted it was over. I truly wish I could read it again for the first time and now I can't wait for my physical copy to arrive.
September 14, 2020
When I tell you that Mr JD Netto knows how to make me sit down and read a book. He knows. From the moment I started reading the book to the end of the book I was captivated and I was sucked in.
"I belonged to an exclusive club with only one membership requirement-be born with half a functioning heart."
You will be pulled in and boy it’s a ride. The Broken Miracle is one story you will want to read. Don’t miss out on the chance and preorder it now.
"I belonged to an exclusive club with only one membership requirement-be born with half a functioning heart."
You will be pulled in and boy it’s a ride. The Broken Miracle is one story you will want to read. Don’t miss out on the chance and preorder it now.
January 25, 2021
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Broken Miracle
Author: J.D. Netto and Paul Crandall
Book Series: The Broken Miracle Duology Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: Contemporary, hope
Publication Date: February 2, 2021
Publisher: All Heart Publishing
Pages: 226
Recommended Age: 15+ (death, slight romance, depression)
Synopsis: We take many things for granted—but having a heart isn't one of them. Paul Cardall is an internationally acclaimed pianist whose career has been an inspiration to millions. But before the awards and success, he was just a little boy with half a functioning heart.
Numerous surgeries and many decades later, Paul is building a successful career despite the limitations his condition have infringed upon him. Now a husband and father, it seems that Paul has everything he could have ever hoped for...until his heart begins to fail.
As time passes, the pressure of his waning health and the seemingly endless wait for a new heart test not only Paul's faith, but his marriage and relationships as well. He begins to wonder if luck will ever be on his side or if it's time he let the curtains fall in what could be the final act of his life.
Though characters and places were fictionalized for storytelling purposes, the main events in the duology are real. Drawn from private notes and journals made available to the author, The Broken Miracle is a riveting story that will take the reader on an unforgettable journey.
Review: If you are wanting a book that will make you sob, this is your book. The book is very heartbreaking and it deals with a lot of things revolving around loss and hopelessness, but also miracles and hopefulness. I felt that the book was very well done and very well written. I really liked the character development and how the characters interacted with each other. I felt that that was very genuine in how they talked and interacted with each other. I also really like the world building and I felt like the plot hooks you in and doesn't let you go until you finish it and you are a sobbing mess on your bed.
the only really issue I had with the book is that the pacing can be a little bit slow. The pacing doesn't need to be slow for this book, but I am a very fast reader and when I get into a mood I really want to get done with the book so pacing is really hard for me.
Verdict: I cried.
Book: The Broken Miracle
Author: J.D. Netto and Paul Crandall
Book Series: The Broken Miracle Duology Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: Contemporary, hope
Publication Date: February 2, 2021
Publisher: All Heart Publishing
Pages: 226
Recommended Age: 15+ (death, slight romance, depression)
Synopsis: We take many things for granted—but having a heart isn't one of them. Paul Cardall is an internationally acclaimed pianist whose career has been an inspiration to millions. But before the awards and success, he was just a little boy with half a functioning heart.
Numerous surgeries and many decades later, Paul is building a successful career despite the limitations his condition have infringed upon him. Now a husband and father, it seems that Paul has everything he could have ever hoped for...until his heart begins to fail.
As time passes, the pressure of his waning health and the seemingly endless wait for a new heart test not only Paul's faith, but his marriage and relationships as well. He begins to wonder if luck will ever be on his side or if it's time he let the curtains fall in what could be the final act of his life.
Though characters and places were fictionalized for storytelling purposes, the main events in the duology are real. Drawn from private notes and journals made available to the author, The Broken Miracle is a riveting story that will take the reader on an unforgettable journey.
Review: If you are wanting a book that will make you sob, this is your book. The book is very heartbreaking and it deals with a lot of things revolving around loss and hopelessness, but also miracles and hopefulness. I felt that the book was very well done and very well written. I really liked the character development and how the characters interacted with each other. I felt that that was very genuine in how they talked and interacted with each other. I also really like the world building and I felt like the plot hooks you in and doesn't let you go until you finish it and you are a sobbing mess on your bed.
the only really issue I had with the book is that the pacing can be a little bit slow. The pacing doesn't need to be slow for this book, but I am a very fast reader and when I get into a mood I really want to get done with the book so pacing is really hard for me.
Verdict: I cried.
February 4, 2021
I am not sure how to explain my thoughts about this book. We all have some kind of problems in our lives, and we mostly let our lives center around these challenges. Since I have finished The Broken Miracle, I truly see things differently.
The story is about Paul Cardell who was born with a broken heart, and all the challenges that he faced growing up. With only half of his heart is functioning, he experienced frequent surgeries and overcame all the difficulties. He believed his broken heart cannot stop him from doing what he loves.
Despite all these challenges and his physical limitations, he comes to be a Famous Pianist and a recording artist. Music helped him beat the obstacle one by one and face his life’s challenges.
This book comes with tears, knowing the story is based on a true story made it even more interesting and emotional for me.
J.D. Netto did a great job writing this amazing and unique story. The narrative is heartbreaking and magnificent at the same time. It is a heartbreaking story with so many bright moments.
I can't wait to read the second book.
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The story is about Paul Cardell who was born with a broken heart, and all the challenges that he faced growing up. With only half of his heart is functioning, he experienced frequent surgeries and overcame all the difficulties. He believed his broken heart cannot stop him from doing what he loves.
Despite all these challenges and his physical limitations, he comes to be a Famous Pianist and a recording artist. Music helped him beat the obstacle one by one and face his life’s challenges.
This book comes with tears, knowing the story is based on a true story made it even more interesting and emotional for me.
J.D. Netto did a great job writing this amazing and unique story. The narrative is heartbreaking and magnificent at the same time. It is a heartbreaking story with so many bright moments.
I can't wait to read the second book.
Blog
Amazon
January 5, 2021
The Broken Miracle is a moving story detailing the journey of a man with a half functioning heart. J.D. Netto's writing is so gripping. The way he told the story was just heartbreaking and yet so beautiful.
The story centers around Paul who has dealt with heart issues his entire life. Since birth, he has had multiple surgeries to help his heart and him alive. I can only imagine how hard a life Paul has lived. When he was younger, you see him question even if this is a life worth living and as he gets older he has the same fears but finds a way to cope and continue to fight.
His family and music are a huge role in his life. Music has been the thing in life that has helped when he felt down or needed to be uplifted. This journey broke my heart because it hit close to home. My father was in need of a transplant and it truly changed his life. I know firsthand how stressful and anxious the process is. From waiting for that call to the constant appointments of doctors saying that things are just getting worse. To read this part of the story broke me.
I give The Broken Miracle 4 stars. It will break your heart as you read what the main character and his family have to go through but there are so many bright moments that will make readers invested in these characters and story.
The story centers around Paul who has dealt with heart issues his entire life. Since birth, he has had multiple surgeries to help his heart and him alive. I can only imagine how hard a life Paul has lived. When he was younger, you see him question even if this is a life worth living and as he gets older he has the same fears but finds a way to cope and continue to fight.
His family and music are a huge role in his life. Music has been the thing in life that has helped when he felt down or needed to be uplifted. This journey broke my heart because it hit close to home. My father was in need of a transplant and it truly changed his life. I know firsthand how stressful and anxious the process is. From waiting for that call to the constant appointments of doctors saying that things are just getting worse. To read this part of the story broke me.
I give The Broken Miracle 4 stars. It will break your heart as you read what the main character and his family have to go through but there are so many bright moments that will make readers invested in these characters and story.
March 25, 2022
Thank you Paul for sharing your story.
It's 5 am and I just finished the first part to this amazing book. I gave followed J.D.'s journey with Paul through his social media since he first announced it. I was so excited to finally get to read it and I was not disappointed.
The strength that Paul and his family gave through out this story is so inspiring. The writing allows you to fall in love with Paul and feel for all his accomplishments and downfalls. The ending....ah my heart. Now I need to read Pt 2.
Also a little reader tidbit: listen to Paul's music while you read it. It gives the book so much more emotion.
It's 5 am and I just finished the first part to this amazing book. I gave followed J.D.'s journey with Paul through his social media since he first announced it. I was so excited to finally get to read it and I was not disappointed.
The strength that Paul and his family gave through out this story is so inspiring. The writing allows you to fall in love with Paul and feel for all his accomplishments and downfalls. The ending....ah my heart. Now I need to read Pt 2.
Also a little reader tidbit: listen to Paul's music while you read it. It gives the book so much more emotion.
February 1, 2021
We are all faced with hardships in our lives and we often letting them rule our lives. After you read, The Broken Miracle, you may look at your life differently. When Paul Cardell was born, he only had half of a heart. He had numerous surgeries and close calls with his health but he didn't let his condition rule his life. He became a world renowned pianist, recording artist and composer despite his physical limitations. His life is full of faith and love and miracles.
This is the first of two books about Paul Cardell's life. Be prepared for some tears but also for an uplifting story that can touch everyone.
This is the first of two books about Paul Cardell's life. Be prepared for some tears but also for an uplifting story that can touch everyone.
July 1, 2025
I love when a book can make me cry and this brought the tears! I love the ties to religion and the very real world problems they face. I also like that it’s fiction based on the life of Paul Cardall, it is a very interesting way to read about someone’s life even if some of it didn’t actually happen. I like the changing timeline and the emotion it brings. I’m not sure why the book was split into two parts, but I’m very ready for the next one.
January 2, 2021
**** RECEIVED AN E-ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. ****
What an emotional ride and a half! JD Netto certainly has a way with words and it shows.
This story is about a man named Paul Cardall and his broken heart. No. Not that broken heart where you face heartbreak. But the one where you’re born with HALF a heart. He [Cardall] uses his faith and music to help him deal with Sawyer (broken heart).
The book goes back and forth to Cardall’s childhood to his present day of when he was still trying to live with the likelihood that he would die. This is a fantastic book. I love Netto’s writing style.
What an emotional ride and a half! JD Netto certainly has a way with words and it shows.
This story is about a man named Paul Cardall and his broken heart. No. Not that broken heart where you face heartbreak. But the one where you’re born with HALF a heart. He [Cardall] uses his faith and music to help him deal with Sawyer (broken heart).
The book goes back and forth to Cardall’s childhood to his present day of when he was still trying to live with the likelihood that he would die. This is a fantastic book. I love Netto’s writing style.
March 14, 2021
This is a complicated review for me. I started with a 5-star and have changed it now to a 3-star. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to part II. However, at the end I found myself feeling fairly disappointed.
I started listening to Paul Cardall’s music during my time as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Instrumental music, was then, and is now, a great source of calm and introspection for me whenever I feel anxious. I was especially drawn to Paul’s music about Jesus Christ. Without lyrics, most listeners wouldn’t know that Christ is central to most of his pieces.
Paul was (is?) a believer of my same faith, which has always drawn a special interest to his story. I’ve known the general details but not a lot of the specific circumstances surrounding his miraculous life. This book does a great a job of bringing a few of those details into focus. While reading, I found myself even more interested in the family members, and other people in his life. This is more than just a story about Paul.
But my connection to Paul’s story - a belief in God and his son, Jesus Christ - was left somewhat lacking from this book. In the end I found myself wanting to know more about how Paul relies on his faith to find hope in his miraculous experience. I want to know how he grapples with his faith throughout his experience with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).
I’ve always been inspired by Paul’s story because of my presumed shared belief in God. Without that tie, his story is not nearly as inspirational for me. Without a belief in God, who would have Paul looked to for his source of hope when dealing with CHD at such a young age? Our society needs a source of hope to overcome the insurmountable challenges we face, especially youth. I’m disappointed this story glossed over how important God was in Paul’s journey.
I can understand if that wasn’t suppose to be the focus of the book but it left a gaping hole in the “plot” for me.
I started listening to Paul Cardall’s music during my time as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Instrumental music, was then, and is now, a great source of calm and introspection for me whenever I feel anxious. I was especially drawn to Paul’s music about Jesus Christ. Without lyrics, most listeners wouldn’t know that Christ is central to most of his pieces.
Paul was (is?) a believer of my same faith, which has always drawn a special interest to his story. I’ve known the general details but not a lot of the specific circumstances surrounding his miraculous life. This book does a great a job of bringing a few of those details into focus. While reading, I found myself even more interested in the family members, and other people in his life. This is more than just a story about Paul.
But my connection to Paul’s story - a belief in God and his son, Jesus Christ - was left somewhat lacking from this book. In the end I found myself wanting to know more about how Paul relies on his faith to find hope in his miraculous experience. I want to know how he grapples with his faith throughout his experience with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).
I’ve always been inspired by Paul’s story because of my presumed shared belief in God. Without that tie, his story is not nearly as inspirational for me. Without a belief in God, who would have Paul looked to for his source of hope when dealing with CHD at such a young age? Our society needs a source of hope to overcome the insurmountable challenges we face, especially youth. I’m disappointed this story glossed over how important God was in Paul’s journey.
I can understand if that wasn’t suppose to be the focus of the book but it left a gaping hole in the “plot” for me.
May 13, 2022
Good but....
I have followed Paul Carroll's journey in his blog for years. I don't remember how I found it but his blog posts are always inspiring. They were very personal and raw. Be didn't hold back, or so if seemed to me. And I stopped reading when my life became overwhelming. So this book was very confusing to me. I know it's not supposed to be a biography, but maybe I was going for one. I guess I was must confused when Paul's name stayed the same but they changed his wife's name and even the gender of his child (so child's name changed then, too). I just wish they had chosen to write a biographical piece than a "loose retelling" of events from Paul's life. I kinda wish Paul would write it as I enjoyed his blog so much and was always eager to read new posts. I mean...this book doesn't even get to the actual heart transplant or their second child. I know there is a Part 2 available, but I didn't enjoy this one enjoy to buy a second. So it was good but too far from the real story I don't know what to believe.
I have followed Paul Carroll's journey in his blog for years. I don't remember how I found it but his blog posts are always inspiring. They were very personal and raw. Be didn't hold back, or so if seemed to me. And I stopped reading when my life became overwhelming. So this book was very confusing to me. I know it's not supposed to be a biography, but maybe I was going for one. I guess I was must confused when Paul's name stayed the same but they changed his wife's name and even the gender of his child (so child's name changed then, too). I just wish they had chosen to write a biographical piece than a "loose retelling" of events from Paul's life. I kinda wish Paul would write it as I enjoyed his blog so much and was always eager to read new posts. I mean...this book doesn't even get to the actual heart transplant or their second child. I know there is a Part 2 available, but I didn't enjoy this one enjoy to buy a second. So it was good but too far from the real story I don't know what to believe.
February 3, 2021
** ARC REVIEW **
"How can something as good as a miracle be so broken?"
These are the words of the author himself, Jorge Netto, during a live and that sums up the main question of the book The Broken Miracle - Part One.
How can it, then?
Paul Cardall is a renowned pianist who was born with the rare condition of heart hypoplasia: only one of his ventricles is functional. The disease overloads the heart and the mortality rate is very high - most do not reach adulthood. In addition to the various symptoms and limitations, the person still has to endure the risky surgeries necessary for the “maintenance” of the organ.
The fact that Paul not only reached adulthood, but reached almost half a century of life is a huge miracle. A very exhausting to maintain ... he underwent open chest surgery with less than a day to live! He faced a heart infection twice, procedures to keep his heart working and, finally, a transplant in 2009.
I've never seen a title resonate with the story so much. Paul is a miracle from the first minute of his life until then. And very delicately, Netto reconstructs his story through personal diaries and notes by the pianist, building a unique work that unites fiction and reality in an exquisite web that made me shed several tears during reading and led me to an intense reflection at the end .
I didn't know Paul before I had the opportunity to read that early copy of the book, but right from the first pages I was so intrigued by what I read that I started to research more about him and listen to his music. I believe it was a handpicked choice by the author that culminated in a successful project: J.D.in some way managed to put all the smoothness and depth I found in Paul's songs in the book.
The narrative is pleasant and engaging, and explores the deepest feelings of the pianist throughout his life, especially the most difficult moments he had to face with his family. And yet, he achieved the feat of not resulting in a heavy reading - in fact, quite the opposite. The hope and faith of both the author and the subject are present in each line.
It is undoubtedly an inspiring book for an incredible story. And I cannot wait for part 2!
"How can something as good as a miracle be so broken?"
These are the words of the author himself, Jorge Netto, during a live and that sums up the main question of the book The Broken Miracle - Part One.
How can it, then?
Paul Cardall is a renowned pianist who was born with the rare condition of heart hypoplasia: only one of his ventricles is functional. The disease overloads the heart and the mortality rate is very high - most do not reach adulthood. In addition to the various symptoms and limitations, the person still has to endure the risky surgeries necessary for the “maintenance” of the organ.
The fact that Paul not only reached adulthood, but reached almost half a century of life is a huge miracle. A very exhausting to maintain ... he underwent open chest surgery with less than a day to live! He faced a heart infection twice, procedures to keep his heart working and, finally, a transplant in 2009.
I've never seen a title resonate with the story so much. Paul is a miracle from the first minute of his life until then. And very delicately, Netto reconstructs his story through personal diaries and notes by the pianist, building a unique work that unites fiction and reality in an exquisite web that made me shed several tears during reading and led me to an intense reflection at the end .
I didn't know Paul before I had the opportunity to read that early copy of the book, but right from the first pages I was so intrigued by what I read that I started to research more about him and listen to his music. I believe it was a handpicked choice by the author that culminated in a successful project: J.D.in some way managed to put all the smoothness and depth I found in Paul's songs in the book.
The narrative is pleasant and engaging, and explores the deepest feelings of the pianist throughout his life, especially the most difficult moments he had to face with his family. And yet, he achieved the feat of not resulting in a heavy reading - in fact, quite the opposite. The hope and faith of both the author and the subject are present in each line.
It is undoubtedly an inspiring book for an incredible story. And I cannot wait for part 2!
November 12, 2022
I started this yesterday and finished it today, I'll be sure to tune in to Part 2, it was very emotional and enjoyable to read although it ended abruptly. I gotta admit I thought this was an autobiography/memoir but the part at the beginning where both the author and Paul Cardell himself gave a word made me realize it was a fictional biography. That's cool this is my first one of those. I disliked the writing style but overall liked the message and how easy it was to read.
I never know how to talk about books that are written about someone's life so excuse how awkward this sounds and read it if you would like a beautiful, hopeful story about pushing through struggles told about a man with only half a functioning heart.
I never know how to talk about books that are written about someone's life so excuse how awkward this sounds and read it if you would like a beautiful, hopeful story about pushing through struggles told about a man with only half a functioning heart.
March 8, 2021
This was an incredibly emotional and sad book. I could not imagine having to live a life that he has lived. The writing style of the author made it very easy to read and follow the story, as it made me want to keep reading to find out what happened next. Though I'm not quite sure why this book is only Part I of the story. It seemed like it stopped very abruptly at the end and there was definitely space to put a Part II in the book since it was relatively short. Other than that, it was an incredibly moving story.
April 12, 2021
Single sound on the keyboard of life
I know this man. I know this story as I worked with his wife. Paul Cardall is a pianist who was born with half a heart. This book is laced with an undying faith in the power of prayers and the knowledge of the life saving gift given to us by Jesus Christ. Reading through the family dynamics brought so much more meaning to Paul’s music. The only thing I didn’t know, and always wondered, was why the single sound on the keyboard of his piano...the sound of Sawyer, his beating heart.
I know this man. I know this story as I worked with his wife. Paul Cardall is a pianist who was born with half a heart. This book is laced with an undying faith in the power of prayers and the knowledge of the life saving gift given to us by Jesus Christ. Reading through the family dynamics brought so much more meaning to Paul’s music. The only thing I didn’t know, and always wondered, was why the single sound on the keyboard of his piano...the sound of Sawyer, his beating heart.
October 3, 2021
This is a fictional account of the life of Paul Cardall, a well known pianist. It tells of the challenges he faces in life after being born with half a heart. Paul expresses his feelings and fears as he goes through many surgeries. The book also tells so his married life and the sorrows they face with several miscarriages . It includes brief passages about his composing the beautiful songs on the piano.
It is a sad read, but enlightening.
I LOVE the music of Paul Cardall.
It is a sad read, but enlightening.
I LOVE the music of Paul Cardall.
April 7, 2022
Author does a great job capturing the little ordinary moments that make an extraordinary life amazi
The author did a great job combining cognition with emotion and dialogue. This story takes you through the feelings of Heartbreak and Joy, by weaving together the little conversations that make a life extraordinary.
The author did a great job combining cognition with emotion and dialogue. This story takes you through the feelings of Heartbreak and Joy, by weaving together the little conversations that make a life extraordinary.
February 1, 2023
JD never disappoints
I love the story. The way it was written. I love how each other chapter changed based on obstacles Paul was facing during the present time and relate back to when he was younger. I will say this book made me cry so much, but still love it.
Can’t wait to read the second part
Ohhh must listen with the soundtrack it makes this book 10x better.
I love the story. The way it was written. I love how each other chapter changed based on obstacles Paul was facing during the present time and relate back to when he was younger. I will say this book made me cry so much, but still love it.
Can’t wait to read the second part
Ohhh must listen with the soundtrack it makes this book 10x better.
March 12, 2024
I guess I should have waited til I read part 2 before I looked up more info on Paul. I have his hymns cd and loved his music. But I didn’t know about his personal life. I was sad to see he divorced and left the church. I think that explains some of the ways he describes his wife. He seems harsh. I know it’s fictional but some differences surprised me too—son instead of daughter for instance.
February 10, 2021
This book is amazing, easy to follow with amazing writing and a heartbreaking story. 100% would recommend.
March 30, 2021
fantastic I love paul cardall.
April 24, 2022
Very heartwarming - wow, beautiful story about beating the odds, and having a wonderful life. Well done!
September 6, 2022
I love reading a book based on Paul Cardall’s life. He’s one of my favorite pianists. It’s interesting what you can try and learn from someone else’s trials.
January 27, 2021
As the subject of J.D. Netto's novel I wanted to share my thoughts about The Broken Miracle - Part One for GoodReads.
"Everyone has a story and our stories all have something in common — we all start from nothing. People want to hear stories. They want to hear our stories — they want to know where we are from, what we are doing, who we love, and where we are going," according Joe Puentas (Writer, heart attack survivor, former pastor, M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - https://medium.com/@joe.puentes
Had I not experienced my story I wouldn't have believed it myself. Having an author take your journals, newspaper articles, blogs, social media posts, and am imperfect timeline of your life and create a novel based on all of that information is humbling, deeply vulnerable, and life-changing.
As I read my story in the contemporary fiction format, based on real events, places, and the people I love, is like undergoing several years of intense therapy that transforms you into the person you were always destined to be, but you didn't see it. Reading your life through another unique lens allows you to see your journey from an entirely new perspective.
This process has helped me appreciate life in such a unique and profound way.
The Broken Miracle is my story and yet soon it'll become all our story. Everyone will relate to the challenges of family life, marriage, living with illness, grief, and so much more... I also hope you'll discover the music I've composed as a soundtrack album inspired by the novel, The Broken Miracle.
Thank you for taking this journey with me.
http://www.thebrokenmiracle.com
http://www.paulcardall.com
Sincerly,
Paul Cardall
"Everyone has a story and our stories all have something in common — we all start from nothing. People want to hear stories. They want to hear our stories — they want to know where we are from, what we are doing, who we love, and where we are going," according Joe Puentas (Writer, heart attack survivor, former pastor, M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - https://medium.com/@joe.puentes
Had I not experienced my story I wouldn't have believed it myself. Having an author take your journals, newspaper articles, blogs, social media posts, and am imperfect timeline of your life and create a novel based on all of that information is humbling, deeply vulnerable, and life-changing.
As I read my story in the contemporary fiction format, based on real events, places, and the people I love, is like undergoing several years of intense therapy that transforms you into the person you were always destined to be, but you didn't see it. Reading your life through another unique lens allows you to see your journey from an entirely new perspective.
This process has helped me appreciate life in such a unique and profound way.
The Broken Miracle is my story and yet soon it'll become all our story. Everyone will relate to the challenges of family life, marriage, living with illness, grief, and so much more... I also hope you'll discover the music I've composed as a soundtrack album inspired by the novel, The Broken Miracle.
Thank you for taking this journey with me.
http://www.thebrokenmiracle.com
http://www.paulcardall.com
Sincerly,
Paul Cardall
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