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Plague of Lies
The cover-up didn’t have the desired effect. The lies could not be contained and rippled throughout the community.
The sense of betrayal hit seventeen-year-old Scott the hardest. He had planned out his entire life based on the teachings of his spiritual mentor. Discovering that his mentor was living a lie sent Scott into a swirling abyss of anger and frustration. He lost his faith and unconsciously followed in the steps of the man he’d learned to hate—until she came into his life.
Lauren knew two things about her father: he had demanded she be born, and he left when she was an infant. He was the first adult in her life to let her know she was unwanted, but not the last. Her very existence was the reason her grandparents were perpetually angry and that her mother was doomed to a dead-end job. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, a letter from her father arrives, inviting her to meet him. Is it possible that her family had lied about him all this time?
The sense of betrayal hit seventeen-year-old Scott the hardest. He had planned out his entire life based on the teachings of his spiritual mentor. Discovering that his mentor was living a lie sent Scott into a swirling abyss of anger and frustration. He lost his faith and unconsciously followed in the steps of the man he’d learned to hate—until she came into his life.
Lauren knew two things about her father: he had demanded she be born, and he left when she was an infant. He was the first adult in her life to let her know she was unwanted, but not the last. Her very existence was the reason her grandparents were perpetually angry and that her mother was doomed to a dead-end job. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, a letter from her father arrives, inviting her to meet him. Is it possible that her family had lied about him all this time?
- GenresChristian Fiction
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2020
18 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Marbeth Skwarczynski
13 books82 followersLike many writers, I began as a reader. My favorite authors were those whose styles were realistic and relatable, so when I began creating my first novel in my thirties, I knew that, above all, I wanted my stories to connect with readers.
My first foray into writing was a book about the biblical character of Ruth. I spent years rewriting and shelving the book. Finally, I submitted it to Elk Lake Publishing. They not only loved the book, but they also helped me prepare it for publication. Now, my work of biblical fiction, Princess of Moab: A Novel of Ruth, is finished and ready to find its readership.
I also have a contemporary Christian fiction series called The Rose Collection. These independently published novels are timely and spotlight the healing process after spiritual abuse. I keep my characters grounded in the real world, so while they grow, learn, and find possible solutions to their issues, they must also confront the detritus of the past. I write what I know, whether firsthand or through close observation, infusing the joy, happiness, and humor that come with spiritual freedom and love. The Rose Collection goes further than the deconstruction of broken spirits to the reconstruction of rescued souls.
My non-fiction book, The Women Who Set the Precedents: An Exploration of the Bible's Bill of Rights for Women, is a deep dive into the prophecy of Bathsheba. Each chapter of my book explores the life of a biblical woman as she embodies the principles of empowerment, intelligence, and spiritual maturity mentioned in the iconic, but often misapplied, last chapter of Proverbs.
My first foray into writing was a book about the biblical character of Ruth. I spent years rewriting and shelving the book. Finally, I submitted it to Elk Lake Publishing. They not only loved the book, but they also helped me prepare it for publication. Now, my work of biblical fiction, Princess of Moab: A Novel of Ruth, is finished and ready to find its readership.
I also have a contemporary Christian fiction series called The Rose Collection. These independently published novels are timely and spotlight the healing process after spiritual abuse. I keep my characters grounded in the real world, so while they grow, learn, and find possible solutions to their issues, they must also confront the detritus of the past. I write what I know, whether firsthand or through close observation, infusing the joy, happiness, and humor that come with spiritual freedom and love. The Rose Collection goes further than the deconstruction of broken spirits to the reconstruction of rescued souls.
My non-fiction book, The Women Who Set the Precedents: An Exploration of the Bible's Bill of Rights for Women, is a deep dive into the prophecy of Bathsheba. Each chapter of my book explores the life of a biblical woman as she embodies the principles of empowerment, intelligence, and spiritual maturity mentioned in the iconic, but often misapplied, last chapter of Proverbs.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 10, 2021
I laughed and I cried. I couldn't put it down. The author did a phenomenal job taking truth and weaving it into a fictional narrative that tells the story of many survivors of abuse, lies, and cover-ups. The fictional aspect was written realistically, although with a happy ending, which does not always occur for every person who shares the experiences the main characters went through. I appreciated the happy ending, though, because while the book sheds light on problematic issues within churches today, it also shows that these issues can be handled in a way that can be healing for survivors and glorifying to God.
July 31, 2021
I’ve finally found another author willing to stand in the middle of the world and call out the church! Thank you Marbeth for this book! I found myself pulled immediately into the story, hooked by not only feeling right at home in Scott and Cindy’s storyline (their church and school was akin to my own growing up), but empathy for Lauren’s as well. There is such power in this story—not only from the abortion/adoption storylines, but the show of Jesus, His acceptance of us, and the humility all believers should have, behind the words.
Scott/Cindy Storyline: I wanted to scream and pull my hair out at the pastor of their church, but at the same time fall on my knees and thank God for leading me personally out of churches and schools that followed the same code of judgement. So amazingly accurate of the late 90s/early 2000s church. The only thing I wanted extra was to see Cindy’s internal reaction to seeing Scott after so many years.
Lauren Storyline: This book was meant for me at this exact time as I walk alongside a friend struggling to find her worthiness in the world. I’ve sent it to her, praying she sees the truth in the words. To watch Lauren grow and flourish under love—it was hard to remind myself she is not real and not beam with joy! Loved her character development!
Highly, highly recommend this book to anyone looking for Christian fiction with a little more grit to it.
Also, kerfuffle. I mean, seriously. Worth it just to read that word in a book. ;)
Scott/Cindy Storyline: I wanted to scream and pull my hair out at the pastor of their church, but at the same time fall on my knees and thank God for leading me personally out of churches and schools that followed the same code of judgement. So amazingly accurate of the late 90s/early 2000s church. The only thing I wanted extra was to see Cindy’s internal reaction to seeing Scott after so many years.
Lauren Storyline: This book was meant for me at this exact time as I walk alongside a friend struggling to find her worthiness in the world. I’ve sent it to her, praying she sees the truth in the words. To watch Lauren grow and flourish under love—it was hard to remind myself she is not real and not beam with joy! Loved her character development!
Highly, highly recommend this book to anyone looking for Christian fiction with a little more grit to it.
Also, kerfuffle. I mean, seriously. Worth it just to read that word in a book. ;)
September 11, 2023
If I could give this 10 stars I would! This book touched my spirit like no other. This is book depicts the the raw and unfortunate pain that can sometimes be linger within our churches, I personally have experienced church hurt. But it also shows how following Christ not necessarily the "church" is where we will find freedom from that hurt. The situations in this story may be triggering for some people but it is definitely things that need talked about. I aplaud Marbeth for stepping up and writing about things that seem taboo within in the church. This is a must read for especially for anyone who has experienced church hurt.
October 2, 2020
A well written book that displays the correct & incorrect ways things are handled within churches & the after effects that come from those decisions.
February 8, 2025
This is a 5 star read. A must read. This book really touched my heart. This book shows how following Christ and not the church is where our freedom and growth is and will heal our hurts. This book reveals the unfortunate pain that happens and lingers within our churches. I have experienced hurt from churches and people affiliated with churches. Some instances in this book may be triggering. This book deals with emotional abuse, religious abuse, neglect, and abortion. I loved watching the characters and their growth and desire for better. I applaud the Author for such a well written book. If for no one else you wrote this book for me. This book shows that healing is possible through Christ.
I highly recommend this book. I will be reading the other books in this series.
I highly recommend this book. I will be reading the other books in this series.
May 10, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love how this author takes a hard to talk about subject and makes it very relatable with good solutions to the problems. I would highly recommend this book and author.
October 30, 2021
Really great book! LOVED it!
March 4, 2024
This is the first Christian novel I've read that calls out spiritual abuse in the church.
I got saved at 18 and my introduction to the church was during the extreme focus on purity and courtship. I was told I shouldn't even pray together with my boyfriend because it was too intimate. Skwarczynski did a wonderful job of showing all the rules singles had to follow, never being alone in a car together, clothing rules, and double dates. And women were always blamed for sexual sin.
She gracefully weaves the two timelines together beginning with teenage Lauren, whose father left at her birth, and mother, Cindy, who has been neglectful and resentful of her all her life. Lauren is bullied at school, so is depressed and alienated. Nobody wants her.
The other timeline focuses on teenage Cindy and her boyfriend Scott. They are faithful to the church and love attending youth group.
Until the youth pastor begins sexually grooming Cindy's best friend, Denise. The young couple is discouraged and stray from their convictions.
The past and present scenes unfold the damage done by how the church handled both Cindy's teenage pregnancy and the abusive youth pastor.
On Lauren's 18th birthday life changes when she receives a letter from her birth dad and the money to travel to see him.
The unfolding of Scott's side of the story and his growing relationship with his daughter is beautiful and heartwarming. The best part of this happily ever after is that Scott kept his faith even though the church and many Christians let him down over and over.
That is the true answer for spiritual abuse. Keep the Christ, ditch the Christians.
I tremendously enjoyed this book and I'm thankful for the author's willingness to talk about things we weren't supposed to talk about back then.
I met Marbeth in a FB group called Avid Readers of Christian Fiction and I'm so thankful I did.
I got saved at 18 and my introduction to the church was during the extreme focus on purity and courtship. I was told I shouldn't even pray together with my boyfriend because it was too intimate. Skwarczynski did a wonderful job of showing all the rules singles had to follow, never being alone in a car together, clothing rules, and double dates. And women were always blamed for sexual sin.
She gracefully weaves the two timelines together beginning with teenage Lauren, whose father left at her birth, and mother, Cindy, who has been neglectful and resentful of her all her life. Lauren is bullied at school, so is depressed and alienated. Nobody wants her.
The other timeline focuses on teenage Cindy and her boyfriend Scott. They are faithful to the church and love attending youth group.
Until the youth pastor begins sexually grooming Cindy's best friend, Denise. The young couple is discouraged and stray from their convictions.
The past and present scenes unfold the damage done by how the church handled both Cindy's teenage pregnancy and the abusive youth pastor.
On Lauren's 18th birthday life changes when she receives a letter from her birth dad and the money to travel to see him.
The unfolding of Scott's side of the story and his growing relationship with his daughter is beautiful and heartwarming. The best part of this happily ever after is that Scott kept his faith even though the church and many Christians let him down over and over.
That is the true answer for spiritual abuse. Keep the Christ, ditch the Christians.
I tremendously enjoyed this book and I'm thankful for the author's willingness to talk about things we weren't supposed to talk about back then.
I met Marbeth in a FB group called Avid Readers of Christian Fiction and I'm so thankful I did.
October 31, 2021
Keeps attention
Great story of a fathers love and dedication. Flows well. Great portrait of real Christianity vs. hypocrites Religion. Read it
Great story of a fathers love and dedication. Flows well. Great portrait of real Christianity vs. hypocrites Religion. Read it
January 30, 2023
This is a changing Point of View (POV) book. Over the years I’ve found that I actually like this type of set up. It helps me get to know the characters in more detail, and let’s me see their inner struggles as well as how they process vital interactions.
That said, in this book the reader is introduced to Scott and Lauren. As one learns about Scott, and what drove him to making the life-impacting decisions he made, they are transported back in time. Conversely, when the focus is on Lauren, it is modern day. Both detail how the decisions Scott made impacted them both over the years. There is also a subplot dealing with an adult authority figure (youth pastor in a church) using his power to influence, and seduce, a teen girl he oversees. The emotional impact of not only the teen directly involved is shown, but the emotional impact of those the adult taught as well. As the series progresses, some of the impacted teens make recurring appearances in the present.
Overall, the author does an amazing job at intertwining past and present, while artistically weaving in a unique subplot.
That said, in this book the reader is introduced to Scott and Lauren. As one learns about Scott, and what drove him to making the life-impacting decisions he made, they are transported back in time. Conversely, when the focus is on Lauren, it is modern day. Both detail how the decisions Scott made impacted them both over the years. There is also a subplot dealing with an adult authority figure (youth pastor in a church) using his power to influence, and seduce, a teen girl he oversees. The emotional impact of not only the teen directly involved is shown, but the emotional impact of those the adult taught as well. As the series progresses, some of the impacted teens make recurring appearances in the present.
Overall, the author does an amazing job at intertwining past and present, while artistically weaving in a unique subplot.
May 14, 2025
"Plague of Lies" by Marbeth Skwarczynski is a Christian story about a deceptive youth pastor named Mr. Rayne, a man named Scott and his past mistakes with his girlfriend Cindy, and the present story of their teenage daughter Lauren who struggles with depression and secretly cuts herself but later reunites with her father Scott and his beloved family.
This was a different and interesting Christian fiction story that has a touch of humor, but also tackles serious topics of abortion, teen pregnancy, and taboo situations that sometimes have happened in some churches, such as deception and sexual child abuse. I admire the author for writing about such heavy issues and bringing them to light in her fiction novel. Despite disagreements over a few things, such as the completion of salvation, I thought the author did a good job tying the story together between its flashback and present-time storylines.
This was a different and interesting Christian fiction story that has a touch of humor, but also tackles serious topics of abortion, teen pregnancy, and taboo situations that sometimes have happened in some churches, such as deception and sexual child abuse. I admire the author for writing about such heavy issues and bringing them to light in her fiction novel. Despite disagreements over a few things, such as the completion of salvation, I thought the author did a good job tying the story together between its flashback and present-time storylines.
January 11, 2025
This was a beautifully written novel, but had I known the subject matter I wouldn't have read it. Not really for older adults, but definitely a perfect book for high schoolers and young singles. It sensitively deals with church hypocrisy and abuse, abortion, premarital pregnancy, and adoption.
There is a split-timeline of eighteen years, but it seems most of the story is about high school students . . . their relationships, trials, and temptations. I finished the book because I became invested in the characters, but as I mentioned it really wasn't for my age group. It would be a fantastic book to use for a teen Bible study class or youth group, for sure!
There is a split-timeline of eighteen years, but it seems most of the story is about high school students . . . their relationships, trials, and temptations. I finished the book because I became invested in the characters, but as I mentioned it really wasn't for my age group. It would be a fantastic book to use for a teen Bible study class or youth group, for sure!
December 28, 2022
I didn't want this book to end, and I was so sad that it ended. That rarely happens. I was very invested in these characters. A neglected teen turns 18, and learns that the father she has never known wants to see her! This was a great Christian discussion of teen pregnancy, abortion, competing parental wishes and rights, adoption, and also the effect of lies. Some often covered up weaknesses and crimes of "church people" are worked in, which is the author's secret sauce. I look forward to the author's other books. I have already read "No Longer Invisible," which was also well done.
October 23, 2023
AMAZING!
This is the first Christian fiction book I have read and I loved it! I can not wait to read the rest in the Rose Collection. The story really grabs your attention while also spreading the word of God in very amazing way that I never thought of. I loved the different verses, the different characters and their sins and how they overcame them as well and how their faith and God brought them through difficult times. I wish I would have looked into Christian fiction sooner and now I am hooked! Thank You Marbeth for a lovely story with an amazing testimony!
This is the first Christian fiction book I have read and I loved it! I can not wait to read the rest in the Rose Collection. The story really grabs your attention while also spreading the word of God in very amazing way that I never thought of. I loved the different verses, the different characters and their sins and how they overcame them as well and how their faith and God brought them through difficult times. I wish I would have looked into Christian fiction sooner and now I am hooked! Thank You Marbeth for a lovely story with an amazing testimony!
December 12, 2025
This story follows two teens facing the painful fallout of betrayal and broken trust. Scott’s world is shaken when the mentor he admired is exposed as a fraud, sending him into a spiral of anger and confusion. Lauren carries her own wounds from a father who disappeared, only to reappear with a letter that challenges everything she has been told. Their journeys of hurt, hope, and self discovery are beautifully written and filled with real emotion. A powerful and engaging read about healing, identity, and finding truth after years of lies.
July 1, 2021
An ABSOLUTE MUST READ! Not your typical “Love Story” … a love story of a young man who loved his girlfriend, who sinned, who was betrayed by his youth pastor, a love story of this young man and his love for the Lord, a love story for a daughter that was kept from him, but loved and prayed for her everyday. The love of Christ radiates through these well developed characters. The web of lies and deceit that almost destroyed these young lives, but once again LOVE WINS
April 21, 2025
Lucky Find
I found this book by chance. I had been looking at available free ebooks and came across one called Twists, Turns, and Curves that sounded interesting. When I found that it is the second book in a series, I downloaded both books. So glad I did. Once I started reading Lauren's, Cindy's, and Scott's story, I was totally engaged. I highly recommend it and will be reading all the books in the series.
I found this book by chance. I had been looking at available free ebooks and came across one called Twists, Turns, and Curves that sounded interesting. When I found that it is the second book in a series, I downloaded both books. So glad I did. Once I started reading Lauren's, Cindy's, and Scott's story, I was totally engaged. I highly recommend it and will be reading all the books in the series.
January 15, 2026
Great read
I bought this before the revisions but it sat in my rp be read pile. I was happy to.read the updated version for a fellow.author
The book didn't disappoint and Marybeth didn't sugar coat the church or it's flaws. It is a bold look at teenage pregnancy, what happens when parents don't choose wisely and when someone refuses to accept.the truth.
I read it in one day and couldn't put it down.
I bought this before the revisions but it sat in my rp be read pile. I was happy to.read the updated version for a fellow.author
The book didn't disappoint and Marybeth didn't sugar coat the church or it's flaws. It is a bold look at teenage pregnancy, what happens when parents don't choose wisely and when someone refuses to accept.the truth.
I read it in one day and couldn't put it down.
March 27, 2024
I very much enjoyed Plague of Lies! I went into this book blindly, not even reading the synopsis after being drawn in by the cover art :) next thing I know I’m flooded with memories and feelings of my upbringing and high school years that I’d forgotten. Nothing bad, just very much related to the MC Lauren. Love the characters and looking forward to reading more from this author!
June 15, 2024
Great read about real issues
If you are looking for a book that doesn’t shy away from addressing real world issues, this is it. Be prepared to feel righteously indignant about injustices, because there are many. But the author does a great job of offering hope and redemption in the midst of the enemy’s chaos.
If you are looking for a book that doesn’t shy away from addressing real world issues, this is it. Be prepared to feel righteously indignant about injustices, because there are many. But the author does a great job of offering hope and redemption in the midst of the enemy’s chaos.
January 22, 2025
This book has so much to think about. Attitudes, effects of our actions, forgiveness, change and understanding. I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I decided to read it, but I am so glad I did. It doesn't neatly fit a category and I am so glad it doesn't. I think this one will stay with me a while to think on it.
May 11, 2021
Excellent
A story about true Christianity the way the Lord means for it to be. "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
A story about true Christianity the way the Lord means for it to be. "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
January 7, 2025
New to me author......I enjoyed the book, though I thought some of Scott's past was drawn out too much and I skimmed some....but it was a good read, very touching and emotional. Loved the pro-life themes, and I found my eyes watering more than once.
January 12, 2025
An engaging story focusing on difficult subjects. Handled with truth and grace when a young couple gets lost in a moment and going beyond the promise they made to themselves and their church. A father who loses contact with the daughter he loved then later proves he loved her all her life.
August 5, 2025
Wow! I did not expect what this book would behold. It was so incredibly deep, and I enjoyed every word. I cried tears of sadness, tears of happiness, and tears of hope. This was beautiful, every word. I am forever changed.
July 5, 2023
Marbeth takes you on a journey that often mirrored portions of my life. It is easy to identify with the characters, even though you don't wish to see yourself and your faults in them. Marbeth has written an excellent depiction of life in the church that is all too frequently ignored or covered up. This story has a depth that makes you think while engaging you in a story that is enjoyable to read. If you enjoy Women's Fiction, this is a book you will want to read and share with your book club!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews