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La parabole de la graine de moutarde
Le jour où John a trouvé Caleb, tout son univers a volé en éclats...
Caleb Fletcher est un survivant. Et si lutter contre les traumatismes de son passé n’est pas chose facile, il sait qu’il peut compter sur John Faimu, l’officier maori qui l’a sauvé des griffes d’une secte il y a huit ans de cela. Avec le soutien de sa famille, Caleb réapprend doucement à profiter de la vie.
Mais quand son passé ressurgit, Caleb doit trouver la force de soulever des montagnes.
La plus petite des graines peut donner le plus solide des arbres.
Caleb Fletcher est un survivant. Et si lutter contre les traumatismes de son passé n’est pas chose facile, il sait qu’il peut compter sur John Faimu, l’officier maori qui l’a sauvé des griffes d’une secte il y a huit ans de cela. Avec le soutien de sa famille, Caleb réapprend doucement à profiter de la vie.
Mais quand son passé ressurgit, Caleb doit trouver la force de soulever des montagnes.
La plus petite des graines peut donner le plus solide des arbres.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2020
62 people are currently reading
846 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Henry
102 books2,280 followersI like to tell stories. Mostly with hot guys and happily ever afters. They gotta work for it though. No free lunches on my watch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
December 30, 2020
*4.5 stars*
Angsty, angsty pain that hurts so good, Lisa Henry wrote a book that pulls no punches and was extremely hard to put down. The Parable of the Mustard Seed is a beautiful story that will stay with you for a long time.
Honestly, I wouldn't have thought that I would have enjoyed this book as much as I did. To start, it is extremely angsty with no easy fixes, which means that there is no "magic sex button" that makes all the pain go away. The pain is real, the trauma is real, and it's an ongoing issue throughout the story.
Also, I don't usually like stories where the love is already established. True, the dynamics of the relationship between the two MCs changes over the course of the story, but the love they have for each other is a constant in their relationship, no matter the form. I usually go for books that take us through first meeting to a slow-burn love story, but this wasn't that type of novel.
Also, there are a lot of flashbacks, which also doesn't usually work for me. I didn't mind it here, and it gave me a lot of insight to their characters.
I was awed and disturbed by this story. Parts were a bit hard to read, but I found it to be endlessly interesting and nearly impossible to put down. I read it straight through, practically all in one sitting. I loved the love that I felt between the two MCs, and I loved that we got a POC MC. There was a lot to love in this story.
If you are in the mood for an intense but rewarding read with a hard-fought HEA (yes, it's there, I promise), The Parable of the Mustard Seed is exactly what you are looking for.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
Angsty, angsty pain that hurts so good, Lisa Henry wrote a book that pulls no punches and was extremely hard to put down. The Parable of the Mustard Seed is a beautiful story that will stay with you for a long time.
Honestly, I wouldn't have thought that I would have enjoyed this book as much as I did. To start, it is extremely angsty with no easy fixes, which means that there is no "magic sex button" that makes all the pain go away. The pain is real, the trauma is real, and it's an ongoing issue throughout the story.
Also, I don't usually like stories where the love is already established. True, the dynamics of the relationship between the two MCs changes over the course of the story, but the love they have for each other is a constant in their relationship, no matter the form. I usually go for books that take us through first meeting to a slow-burn love story, but this wasn't that type of novel.
Also, there are a lot of flashbacks, which also doesn't usually work for me. I didn't mind it here, and it gave me a lot of insight to their characters.
I was awed and disturbed by this story. Parts were a bit hard to read, but I found it to be endlessly interesting and nearly impossible to put down. I read it straight through, practically all in one sitting. I loved the love that I felt between the two MCs, and I loved that we got a POC MC. There was a lot to love in this story.
If you are in the mood for an intense but rewarding read with a hard-fought HEA (yes, it's there, I promise), The Parable of the Mustard Seed is exactly what you are looking for.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
December 20, 2020
Stop.
Listen.
Do you hear that? No? Me neither. But I can tell you what’s happening in this silence. A new book scar is healing on my heart. *deep breath* Yeah, this is one of those books. I was nervous, caught, captivated, and then suddenly throwing myself over the book cliff, giving myself up to the story. Whatever it needed from me, wherever it took me, I was at…book mercy. I stopped time and devoured it. Everything else could wait. And right now, that is a precious gift.
What's to like: Where do I start? So many threads are spun together and I was awestruck with each and every one. First and foremost, if you’re familiar with my ramblings, you may know that my family bleeds blue blood. Consequently, I am critical and unforgiving of the portrayal of fictional LEO’s. Oh! Law Enforcement Officers in case you’re not acquainted with the term. And bless Henry, she did a phenomenal job with not only the grander parts of the investigation but even the trivial parts of the police work passed my scrupulous eye. John has been working for Logan’s CPIU (Child Protective and Investigation Unit) which led him to Caleb. The day he found Caleb changed his life forever. It’s been close to a decade and their relationship has progressed and unheard ironclad vows have been exchanged. John demonstrates how some cases not only get under your skin but into your heart. We witness how erratic and exhausting officer’s schedules are. We see how the job comes first and how precious sleep is and how often meals go cold. And ultimately how high adrenaline positions have an expiration date. One of the things I enjoy most is a genuine story and despite how unfathomable some of these pieces are, the reality here rang true. I also adored the Samoan heartbeat that pulses through the pages. This was new to me and I gobbled it up! There is so much more I would love to tell you but…this could turn into an epically long review if I’m not careful. Moving on…
What's to love: The love. I know, I know that sounds trite. But seriously, the abundance of love within these pages blew me away. John and Caleb share a special love, nothing, and no one can ever compare or compete between these two. Then there’s the unconditional love of a father. I loved Darren. Hardcore loved him. I also loved John’s family. From his amazing Ma to his siblings to his family in the department, I loved each and every one. But wait! Don’t think it’s all sunshine and roses because there are evil monsters here too. And as much as I loved the heroes, I despised the villains with a force that took me by surprise. There are some atrocious acts that can never be forgiven or forgotten. Caleb IS a survivor but his scars are deep and far from healed. I read a complex and powerful story last year about a man with dissociative identity disorder and this felt…similar. It’s never stated here but it’s almost as if Caleb slips into classic characteristics of the disorder. He’s impulsive and has self-destructive behavior. He has mood swings and triggers. He has a traumatic past that anyone would prefer to block out. This is simply my take on him and you may see him differently. But I can’t even begin to tell you how happy I am that Caleb gets his man and his happily ever after! There may never be a more deserving soul. I loved how cautious yet solid their intimacy is. I loved sushi dates and doggy kisses. I loved all the ‘down under’ elements. I loved the dedication and resilience. I just…loved it.
Beware of: Sometimes faith and religion fail people, you can’t change that. Sometimes family betrays you, you can’t erase that. But sometimes…fate directs you, takes you to the arms meant to hold you and love you forevermore.
This book is for: Only those looking for an unforgettable story about a boy and his rescuer and how one day, he rescued him right back.
*4.5 heavy-yet-hopeful stars*
Book UNfunk
Listen.
Do you hear that? No? Me neither. But I can tell you what’s happening in this silence. A new book scar is healing on my heart. *deep breath* Yeah, this is one of those books. I was nervous, caught, captivated, and then suddenly throwing myself over the book cliff, giving myself up to the story. Whatever it needed from me, wherever it took me, I was at…book mercy. I stopped time and devoured it. Everything else could wait. And right now, that is a precious gift.
What's to like: Where do I start? So many threads are spun together and I was awestruck with each and every one. First and foremost, if you’re familiar with my ramblings, you may know that my family bleeds blue blood. Consequently, I am critical and unforgiving of the portrayal of fictional LEO’s. Oh! Law Enforcement Officers in case you’re not acquainted with the term. And bless Henry, she did a phenomenal job with not only the grander parts of the investigation but even the trivial parts of the police work passed my scrupulous eye. John has been working for Logan’s CPIU (Child Protective and Investigation Unit) which led him to Caleb. The day he found Caleb changed his life forever. It’s been close to a decade and their relationship has progressed and unheard ironclad vows have been exchanged. John demonstrates how some cases not only get under your skin but into your heart. We witness how erratic and exhausting officer’s schedules are. We see how the job comes first and how precious sleep is and how often meals go cold. And ultimately how high adrenaline positions have an expiration date. One of the things I enjoy most is a genuine story and despite how unfathomable some of these pieces are, the reality here rang true. I also adored the Samoan heartbeat that pulses through the pages. This was new to me and I gobbled it up! There is so much more I would love to tell you but…this could turn into an epically long review if I’m not careful. Moving on…
What's to love: The love. I know, I know that sounds trite. But seriously, the abundance of love within these pages blew me away. John and Caleb share a special love, nothing, and no one can ever compare or compete between these two. Then there’s the unconditional love of a father. I loved Darren. Hardcore loved him. I also loved John’s family. From his amazing Ma to his siblings to his family in the department, I loved each and every one. But wait! Don’t think it’s all sunshine and roses because there are evil monsters here too. And as much as I loved the heroes, I despised the villains with a force that took me by surprise. There are some atrocious acts that can never be forgiven or forgotten. Caleb IS a survivor but his scars are deep and far from healed. I read a complex and powerful story last year about a man with dissociative identity disorder and this felt…similar. It’s never stated here but it’s almost as if Caleb slips into classic characteristics of the disorder. He’s impulsive and has self-destructive behavior. He has mood swings and triggers. He has a traumatic past that anyone would prefer to block out. This is simply my take on him and you may see him differently. But I can’t even begin to tell you how happy I am that Caleb gets his man and his happily ever after! There may never be a more deserving soul. I loved how cautious yet solid their intimacy is. I loved sushi dates and doggy kisses. I loved all the ‘down under’ elements. I loved the dedication and resilience. I just…loved it.
Beware of: Sometimes faith and religion fail people, you can’t change that. Sometimes family betrays you, you can’t erase that. But sometimes…fate directs you, takes you to the arms meant to hold you and love you forevermore.
This book is for: Only those looking for an unforgettable story about a boy and his rescuer and how one day, he rescued him right back.
*4.5 heavy-yet-hopeful stars*
Book UNfunk
April 6, 2020
Wow...this was way heavier then I figured it would be. After reading the blurb, I figured there would be some hurt/comfort and so a bit of pain and maybe even a rolling tear, but boy did I miscalculate the angst...
That said, I devoured this book from start to finish.
Even though we are dealing with worldwide sorrow, this book was exactly what I needed. I have been trying to down myself in angst-free happy books and they just weren't doing the trick. This one though...this one made me forget about my own fears for a minute.
Caleb's story was at times extremely hard to read. Slowly we are being told the full story of what happened to him and it was horrifying.
Thankfully there was also a lot of love in this book and some really wonderful characters.
I fell deeply in love with Caleb and John (especially John) and their wonderful families. I really want to give some extra credit to Caleb's dad...he was pretty amazing. This story was what I needed right now... A story about courage and love, family and survival...
This book is chock full of triggers, so please beware. But if you are a hurt/comfort fan and you can stand those and the angst, I highly recommend you give this one a go.
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
November 23, 2024
*4.5* This emotionally heavy story centers on Australian-Samoan police officer John Faimu and Caleb Fletcher, the young man he saved from a religious cult eight years ago.
Gay romance
Cult survivor/cop
Trauma/resilience
Murder mystery
Psychological depth
Very angsty
Age gap (22/30)
Caleb’s journey through PTSD and self-harm is VERY raw and unflinching.
John’s support for Caleb is beautiful. The tension between his protective instincts and romantic feelings for Caleb are written so well. This story certainly pushes boundaries.
Caleb‘s trauma, kidnapped as a kid, raised in a cult, and tortured by the adults there, creates a shaky foundation for this young man. It could have been the audiobook narration, or just the way this character was written, but he felt almost too childlike for his age. Maybe this was on purpose, since he obviously didn’t have the developmental love needed to mature in a healthy way.
This was a very tough, fought for HEA. There is so much love written in these pages.
Glen Lloyd did a good job with the voice acting on the audiobook.
*Check the TWs!
Gay romance
Cult survivor/cop
Trauma/resilience
Murder mystery
Psychological depth
Very angsty
Age gap (22/30)
Caleb’s journey through PTSD and self-harm is VERY raw and unflinching.
John’s support for Caleb is beautiful. The tension between his protective instincts and romantic feelings for Caleb are written so well. This story certainly pushes boundaries.
Caleb‘s trauma, kidnapped as a kid, raised in a cult, and tortured by the adults there, creates a shaky foundation for this young man. It could have been the audiobook narration, or just the way this character was written, but he felt almost too childlike for his age. Maybe this was on purpose, since he obviously didn’t have the developmental love needed to mature in a healthy way.
This was a very tough, fought for HEA. There is so much love written in these pages.
Glen Lloyd did a good job with the voice acting on the audiobook.
*Check the TWs!
May 19, 2020
4 Hearts! -Team review with Adam!
Angsty but not torturously so, Henry delivers a heartfelt and hard won love story.
As per the blurb, John and Caleb meet under the worst of circumstances, and though it's been many years later, their connection is stronger than ever. There’s definitely been slow healing with plenty of setbacks, all of which have shaped these two into who they are today. John has always been a solid force, often showing unconditional support for Caleb and his dad Darren, through the many ups and downs they’ve faced together.
However over time, John’s initial concern for the once teenage Caleb has slowly morphed into so much more. It comes as no surprise that his caring feelings have evolved, but John knows he must keep them close to the vest, mainly because he doesn’t think he’s good enough for Caleb but also, should things not work out, the possible repercussions could be devastating.
What John doesn’t know is that despite Caleb’s many many issues, his traumatic past has obviously and inevitably shaped who Caleb feels most safe with and that person of course, is John. Caleb (though we don’t get his point of view) knows he’s forever altered because of the appalling circumstances he was subjected to for over a decade, but that doesn’t mean he can’t or won’t try to make his life something more than fear and nightmares. He wants a chance to move on, he wants John, and he makes himself perfectly clear on such.
This was a thoughtful and what I assume, realistic look at PTSD and anxiety, where there is no easy fix and definitely, no easy answers. At times both frustrating and heartbreaking, beware triggers for religious oppression, physical and emotional abuse, awful parents being unforgivably evil, and murder. It’s understandable that Caleb is scarred, and while he’s made many strides in overcoming brutal conditioning, sometimes even the smallest obstacles can have huge consequences and stall progress, but not all is lost.
More importantly, despite the overwhelming worry and doubts, one has to take a leap of faith. There's a fine line between wanting to shield and protect and also allowing one to attempt some progress despite the possibility of failure. This was emotional but never unnecessarily overdramatic. There are brief flashbacks consistently scattered throughout showing the past and the evolution of John and Caleb, doling out what has transpired over time. Intermix that with the present and the fallout when Caleb’s tormentors are released from prison, and this becomes more than just a romance. There's good guys to root for and bad guys to get their deserved punishment, and Henry delivers.
Overall though, this is a journey about two men who love each other desperately and at long last, bravely try to make it work. Henry accomplishes a difficult win that’s as tenuous as it is strong and leaves the reader with confidence that John and Caleb will undoubtedly triumph. Whatever challenges they‘ll for sure face, they'll do it together with the support of their friends and family. Again, this was touching and intimate and just very sweet in and amongst the maelstrom of apt turmoil. Highly recommended!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
Angsty but not torturously so, Henry delivers a heartfelt and hard won love story.
As per the blurb, John and Caleb meet under the worst of circumstances, and though it's been many years later, their connection is stronger than ever. There’s definitely been slow healing with plenty of setbacks, all of which have shaped these two into who they are today. John has always been a solid force, often showing unconditional support for Caleb and his dad Darren, through the many ups and downs they’ve faced together.
However over time, John’s initial concern for the once teenage Caleb has slowly morphed into so much more. It comes as no surprise that his caring feelings have evolved, but John knows he must keep them close to the vest, mainly because he doesn’t think he’s good enough for Caleb but also, should things not work out, the possible repercussions could be devastating.
What John doesn’t know is that despite Caleb’s many many issues, his traumatic past has obviously and inevitably shaped who Caleb feels most safe with and that person of course, is John. Caleb (though we don’t get his point of view) knows he’s forever altered because of the appalling circumstances he was subjected to for over a decade, but that doesn’t mean he can’t or won’t try to make his life something more than fear and nightmares. He wants a chance to move on, he wants John, and he makes himself perfectly clear on such.
This was a thoughtful and what I assume, realistic look at PTSD and anxiety, where there is no easy fix and definitely, no easy answers. At times both frustrating and heartbreaking, beware triggers for religious oppression, physical and emotional abuse, awful parents being unforgivably evil, and murder. It’s understandable that Caleb is scarred, and while he’s made many strides in overcoming brutal conditioning, sometimes even the smallest obstacles can have huge consequences and stall progress, but not all is lost.
More importantly, despite the overwhelming worry and doubts, one has to take a leap of faith. There's a fine line between wanting to shield and protect and also allowing one to attempt some progress despite the possibility of failure. This was emotional but never unnecessarily overdramatic. There are brief flashbacks consistently scattered throughout showing the past and the evolution of John and Caleb, doling out what has transpired over time. Intermix that with the present and the fallout when Caleb’s tormentors are released from prison, and this becomes more than just a romance. There's good guys to root for and bad guys to get their deserved punishment, and Henry delivers.
Overall though, this is a journey about two men who love each other desperately and at long last, bravely try to make it work. Henry accomplishes a difficult win that’s as tenuous as it is strong and leaves the reader with confidence that John and Caleb will undoubtedly triumph. Whatever challenges they‘ll for sure face, they'll do it together with the support of their friends and family. Again, this was touching and intimate and just very sweet in and amongst the maelstrom of apt turmoil. Highly recommended!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
October 4, 2024
Wow ...
I'm wearing a scarf in the apartment because it's cold as shit and this one got a little uncomfortable because it was completely soaked with tears.
To say I cried a lot reading this incredible story would be an understatement.
Please by all means pay attention to the triggers (child abuse, self-harm, suicide attempts and various others), but if you're comfortable with that and looking for something emotionally devastating, this book is perfect.
I'm a bit wiped out at the moment and I'm at a loss for words, so here are a few wonderful highlights to show how wonderful this book is.
Stupid dumb hope, because Caleb wasn’t going to get better. He had no baseline of good mental health to try to reclaim. Caleb had been broken for too long, into too many pieces, and there wasn’t a doctor or a medication in the world that could plaster over all the cracks and pretend they didn’t go bone deep. 😭😩😪🤧
Caleb was strong, and he was always fighting, but people didn’t get that. Didn’t get that just because he was fighting something intangible, something invisible, that the fight was as deadly as if it had been a physical disease. People understood cancer. Didn’t attach a stigma to it. But mental health, well, why didn’t they just pull themselves together? ❤️🩹
“I love you,” John said. “And I know that’s not a cure, or an answer, or the part that comes at the end of a story. But it’s a promise. Whatever happens between us, I will always love you and I will always be on your side. You won’t ever have to be alone when the rain comes.” 🫠🌻🫠
I'm wearing a scarf in the apartment because it's cold as shit and this one got a little uncomfortable because it was completely soaked with tears.
To say I cried a lot reading this incredible story would be an understatement.
Please by all means pay attention to the triggers (child abuse, self-harm, suicide attempts and various others), but if you're comfortable with that and looking for something emotionally devastating, this book is perfect.
I'm a bit wiped out at the moment and I'm at a loss for words, so here are a few wonderful highlights to show how wonderful this book is.
Stupid dumb hope, because Caleb wasn’t going to get better. He had no baseline of good mental health to try to reclaim. Caleb had been broken for too long, into too many pieces, and there wasn’t a doctor or a medication in the world that could plaster over all the cracks and pretend they didn’t go bone deep. 😭😩😪🤧
Caleb was strong, and he was always fighting, but people didn’t get that. Didn’t get that just because he was fighting something intangible, something invisible, that the fight was as deadly as if it had been a physical disease. People understood cancer. Didn’t attach a stigma to it. But mental health, well, why didn’t they just pull themselves together? ❤️🩹
“I love you,” John said. “And I know that’s not a cure, or an answer, or the part that comes at the end of a story. But it’s a promise. Whatever happens between us, I will always love you and I will always be on your side. You won’t ever have to be alone when the rain comes.” 🫠🌻🫠
June 6, 2020
Age-gap romances are one of my favourite tropes.
In any event, John 31 and Caleb 22, should have sounded like a delicious and thrilling nine year gap relationship to me.
However, in The Parable of the Mustard Seed I could never shake an uneasy feeling regarding their age because their maturity gap was screaming at me at every single page I turned.
Emotionally, Caleb's maturity didn't quite fit his age. The trauma of his past has left him limited and inexperienced in matters of love.
Caleb was too damaged, too unstable, too fragile, and John was his rock. The power in the relationship was completely unbalanced.
Kudos to the author for creating such a lovely familial atmosphere surrounding John. A family with problems like every other family, but with strong family ties, reliable, supportive and compassionate.
Overall, this was a very well written story. I liked the secondary characters, the way John's fears were presented regarding his relationship with Caleb, Darren's worry, John's family and colleagues. My problem was the romance. It didn't quite hit the mark for me. Despite that, it was a very moving story and for that I still think it deserves 4 stars.
In any event, John 31 and Caleb 22, should have sounded like a delicious and thrilling nine year gap relationship to me.
However, in The Parable of the Mustard Seed I could never shake an uneasy feeling regarding their age because their maturity gap was screaming at me at every single page I turned.
Emotionally, Caleb's maturity didn't quite fit his age. The trauma of his past has left him limited and inexperienced in matters of love.
Caleb was too damaged, too unstable, too fragile, and John was his rock. The power in the relationship was completely unbalanced.
Kudos to the author for creating such a lovely familial atmosphere surrounding John. A family with problems like every other family, but with strong family ties, reliable, supportive and compassionate.
Overall, this was a very well written story. I liked the secondary characters, the way John's fears were presented regarding his relationship with Caleb, Darren's worry, John's family and colleagues. My problem was the romance. It didn't quite hit the mark for me. Despite that, it was a very moving story and for that I still think it deserves 4 stars.
December 29, 2021
Lisa Henry, I'm a huge fan.
Nobody can write tormented and traumatized characters in a similar way. Caleb's fate gripped my heart. It was real and tangible. No sudden cure brought on by amazing sex.
A trauma is a mental injury you cannot remove from a person's mind. You need to learn how to cope with it and it takes great effort not only from the person itself but from the people, family, friends around them as well to re-establish a daily routine. There are no magical cures.
Caleb is a 23 year old young man who lives with his father Darren after a terrible trauma wrecked his life and destroyed his world.
I don't want to give spoilers as this story is in large parts a thriller and things are unveiled slowly, but just to give you an idea: Caleb was kidnapped as a child and spent many years with kidnappers who mistreated him. He was found and rescued by chance by the local police force, with cop John being the one who removed Caleb from the situation.
Caleb was 15 at the time and despite medication, psychotherapy and a supportive father, he's still a mess at 23, having panic attacks and episodes where he lashes out at the people around him for no obvious reason other than the storm inside his head.
John somehow sees it as his personal responsibility to stand by the boy's side and support him and his father by spending time with Caleb when Darren needs to travel for work. He knows the daily routine, knows how he needs to check on Caleb taking his meds, knows how to put him to bed, so he gets enough sleep to stay mentally stable the next day. And so on.
Caleb has a strong bond with John. The fact that John was the one who found Caleb seems to be the reason why John is the only person Caleb fully trusts. Even his dad didn't have his full trust when he returned back home. But John stayed in contact with the family, paying them regular visits even after the case was long closed and John could have moved on.
Caleb outed himself as gay at 19, which was a huge step for him, especially as his homosexuality was a big factor in his trauma. And most importantly, when he did, John told him likewise that he was gay and that it was okay to be gay.
Okay, I'm speaking in riddles now.
The story continues by the kidnappers getting out of prison on parole and John being afraid they might get in contact with Caleb. To complicate matters further, Caleb shows a romantic interest in the 31 year old John, which represents a conflict of interest for John who works closely with Caleb's father Darrin and is afraid that a failed relationship with Caleb will cost him Caleb's AND Darren's friendship.
However, what I admired most about the story is John's view of things. He's Samoan, so his perception of family and togetherness is a bit different than that of a Westerner. He considers Caleb his family. The shared bonds of fate have brought them together and knowing the incredible hardships Caleb had to endure, John sees a strong young man behind that sensitive façade. He knows that most other people would have broken completely having lived through what Caleb had. So despite Caleb's breakdowns and set backs that seem as regular as the tides whenever he takes a step forward, he is proud and admires Caleb. And being a gay man himself, he does have romantic feelings for the fragile young man.
But so many things seem to speak against John answering Caleb's romantic interest in kind. It takes quite a lot processing and tragic interventions for the older man to see that a consenting relationship should not be ruled out from the start just because Caleb's life isn't as care free as a regular 23 year old's.
However, when the darkness from the past threatens to take Caleb again, John fears that all his promises to keep Caleb safe were a lie, for he is powerless to stop the forces that want to get rid of Caleb and the things he's seen for good.
What a masterpiece.
I seriously enjoyed this book, even though it wasn't anything like our usual feel good romances.
And even though I can't go into details about the exact plot, I find myself deeply impressed by the devotion to details in this story. Every singe thing that you find in this book serves a purpose. John's heritage, Caleb's name and past, John's mom's religion. John's father's necklace. Caleb's dog. This is truly a joy to read because it clearly shows the masterful skills of the author.
I totally recommend this book. It's a true highlight, presenting characters that exist beyond the usual romance character templates that we know by heart.
Definitely a noteworthy and valuable book in the genre.
5 stars and a big recommendation
Nobody can write tormented and traumatized characters in a similar way. Caleb's fate gripped my heart. It was real and tangible. No sudden cure brought on by amazing sex.
A trauma is a mental injury you cannot remove from a person's mind. You need to learn how to cope with it and it takes great effort not only from the person itself but from the people, family, friends around them as well to re-establish a daily routine. There are no magical cures.
Caleb is a 23 year old young man who lives with his father Darren after a terrible trauma wrecked his life and destroyed his world.
I don't want to give spoilers as this story is in large parts a thriller and things are unveiled slowly, but just to give you an idea: Caleb was kidnapped as a child and spent many years with kidnappers who mistreated him. He was found and rescued by chance by the local police force, with cop John being the one who removed Caleb from the situation.
Caleb was 15 at the time and despite medication, psychotherapy and a supportive father, he's still a mess at 23, having panic attacks and episodes where he lashes out at the people around him for no obvious reason other than the storm inside his head.
John somehow sees it as his personal responsibility to stand by the boy's side and support him and his father by spending time with Caleb when Darren needs to travel for work. He knows the daily routine, knows how he needs to check on Caleb taking his meds, knows how to put him to bed, so he gets enough sleep to stay mentally stable the next day. And so on.
Caleb has a strong bond with John. The fact that John was the one who found Caleb seems to be the reason why John is the only person Caleb fully trusts. Even his dad didn't have his full trust when he returned back home. But John stayed in contact with the family, paying them regular visits even after the case was long closed and John could have moved on.
Caleb outed himself as gay at 19, which was a huge step for him, especially as his homosexuality was a big factor in his trauma. And most importantly, when he did, John told him likewise that he was gay and that it was okay to be gay.
Okay, I'm speaking in riddles now.
The story continues by the kidnappers getting out of prison on parole and John being afraid they might get in contact with Caleb. To complicate matters further, Caleb shows a romantic interest in the 31 year old John, which represents a conflict of interest for John who works closely with Caleb's father Darrin and is afraid that a failed relationship with Caleb will cost him Caleb's AND Darren's friendship.
However, what I admired most about the story is John's view of things. He's Samoan, so his perception of family and togetherness is a bit different than that of a Westerner. He considers Caleb his family. The shared bonds of fate have brought them together and knowing the incredible hardships Caleb had to endure, John sees a strong young man behind that sensitive façade. He knows that most other people would have broken completely having lived through what Caleb had. So despite Caleb's breakdowns and set backs that seem as regular as the tides whenever he takes a step forward, he is proud and admires Caleb. And being a gay man himself, he does have romantic feelings for the fragile young man.
But so many things seem to speak against John answering Caleb's romantic interest in kind. It takes quite a lot processing and tragic interventions for the older man to see that a consenting relationship should not be ruled out from the start just because Caleb's life isn't as care free as a regular 23 year old's.
However, when the darkness from the past threatens to take Caleb again, John fears that all his promises to keep Caleb safe were a lie, for he is powerless to stop the forces that want to get rid of Caleb and the things he's seen for good.
What a masterpiece.
I seriously enjoyed this book, even though it wasn't anything like our usual feel good romances.
And even though I can't go into details about the exact plot, I find myself deeply impressed by the devotion to details in this story. Every singe thing that you find in this book serves a purpose. John's heritage, Caleb's name and past, John's mom's religion. John's father's necklace. Caleb's dog. This is truly a joy to read because it clearly shows the masterful skills of the author.
I totally recommend this book. It's a true highlight, presenting characters that exist beyond the usual romance character templates that we know by heart.
Definitely a noteworthy and valuable book in the genre.
5 stars and a big recommendation
Read
February 4, 2020I'm aiming for an April 3 release date on this one, and will upload the cover as soon as I have it.
Any questions? Here's a great place to ask away!
Any questions? Here's a great place to ask away!
April 14, 2020
3.5 Stars!
The story was tragic.
The writing was strong.
The characters were compelling.
The rating comes from the romance.
I had a hard time seeing Caleb as a grown man. He felt young and continued to feel that way throughout the book. His trauma plays a big part in how I felt. Plus it didn't help that we didn't see these men develop any type of relationship. They already were in love from the get go. We didn't get to see them grow into those feelings. Caleb is pretty fragile throughout and so from them to go quickly into a relationship to a sexual one felt all kinds of wrong to me. I can usually follow this lead in some books with no issues, but considering how heavy this book was with its story-line I didn't feel it was the right move. At least not that fast.
The story on the other hand was good. I really felt for Darren. To have your son taken and to get him back years later completely broken and still fight and do everything you can to help him, made him my favorite character.
Although I had conflicted feelings about this story I still would recommend it.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC from IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
The story was tragic.
The writing was strong.
The characters were compelling.
The rating comes from the romance.
I had a hard time seeing Caleb as a grown man. He felt young and continued to feel that way throughout the book. His trauma plays a big part in how I felt. Plus it didn't help that we didn't see these men develop any type of relationship. They already were in love from the get go. We didn't get to see them grow into those feelings. Caleb is pretty fragile throughout and so from them to go quickly into a relationship to a sexual one felt all kinds of wrong to me. I can usually follow this lead in some books with no issues, but considering how heavy this book was with its story-line I didn't feel it was the right move. At least not that fast.
The story on the other hand was good. I really felt for Darren. To have your son taken and to get him back years later completely broken and still fight and do everything you can to help him, made him my favorite character.
Although I had conflicted feelings about this story I still would recommend it.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC from IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
lost-interested
June 19, 2020DNF @ 37%
I don’t know where their love came from. It’s like they were in love with each other from the start and I started the story from the middle! I couldn’t connect with the MCs and I couldn’t feel the love between them. Their love kind of came out of nowhere!
I don’t know where their love came from. It’s like they were in love with each other from the start and I started the story from the middle! I couldn’t connect with the MCs and I couldn’t feel the love between them. Their love kind of came out of nowhere!
April 13, 2020
An intense, emotional, and ultimately satisfying story about an Australian-Samoan police officer who finds an abused teenager on a case investigating a religious cult. From the first moment, Caleb's spirit sparks something in John. Not just pity, or even compassion, or responsibility, but a deep awareness of the strength of the individual behind the battered exterior.
John has befriended and watched over Caleb and his father, for years now. And as Caleb's strength and stability have improved, John's love has become something else. But Caleb still has bad moments, and self-harms, and his PTSD derails him. How can John justify anything other than a platonic friendship, when the deeper waters of a relationship might destroy Caleb if anything goes wrong.
Caleb has other ideas, though. The strength that sustained him locked in a water tank for days, also helps him move forward. He's doing better, ready to try for more than friendship. But the people who abused him are due to get out on parole, and his hard-won balance may not be solid enough to withstand their release into the world.
This story manages deep emotions without being graphic about the abuse. Brief flashbacks to the day John saved Caleb give us a sense of the devastation they began with. Caleb's dad made me ache - for the way it feels to want to help your child past a mental health problem and to be unable to shield or heal them. John's mother is a warm though sometimes demanding presence in his life, and his family issues with his sister add texture to the story.
I loved that this ends with happiness, but not with healing and perfection. You can be broken and patched together and still shaky, and still find love and moments of joy.
John has befriended and watched over Caleb and his father, for years now. And as Caleb's strength and stability have improved, John's love has become something else. But Caleb still has bad moments, and self-harms, and his PTSD derails him. How can John justify anything other than a platonic friendship, when the deeper waters of a relationship might destroy Caleb if anything goes wrong.
Caleb has other ideas, though. The strength that sustained him locked in a water tank for days, also helps him move forward. He's doing better, ready to try for more than friendship. But the people who abused him are due to get out on parole, and his hard-won balance may not be solid enough to withstand their release into the world.
This story manages deep emotions without being graphic about the abuse. Brief flashbacks to the day John saved Caleb give us a sense of the devastation they began with. Caleb's dad made me ache - for the way it feels to want to help your child past a mental health problem and to be unable to shield or heal them. John's mother is a warm though sometimes demanding presence in his life, and his family issues with his sister add texture to the story.
I loved that this ends with happiness, but not with healing and perfection. You can be broken and patched together and still shaky, and still find love and moments of joy.
April 2, 2020
So, I'm going to be honest. I was beyond excited to read this book when I first read the blurb and that it was written by Lisa Henry. I was on this book like white on rice. I started reading this book at the same time the poop was hitting the fan with this pandemic. While the writing is excellent, I found myself needing to take a break from it. It was too much. Caleb's story was horrible and heartbreaking, and as the pieces began to come into place as to who and why- I had to stop. As a parent, I was appalled, horrified.
I questioned whether I would return to the book.
I read a couple of other books.
But in the back of my head, I kept wondering about Caleb. I felt sh***y, not finishing. How could I leave him like that?
I went back, and I finished this story about love, perseverance, family, friendships, and bonds. I'm glad that I did. The care that these characters have for each other is palpable.
Although I initially was hesitant to finish because of the stress of everything going on, it was because of everything going that I'm glad I did.
I hope my ramble made a lick of sense.
Long story short: read it.
4.5 stars
I questioned whether I would return to the book.
I read a couple of other books.
But in the back of my head, I kept wondering about Caleb. I felt sh***y, not finishing. How could I leave him like that?
I went back, and I finished this story about love, perseverance, family, friendships, and bonds. I'm glad that I did. The care that these characters have for each other is palpable.
Although I initially was hesitant to finish because of the stress of everything going on, it was because of everything going that I'm glad I did.
I hope my ramble made a lick of sense.
Long story short: read it.
4.5 stars
May 5, 2020
Lisa Henry doing what she does best.
I don’t know how she pulls it off, but she always manages to walk me through intense and emotionally charged stories without making me feel miserable or hopeless for one second.
Once again, she writes an unconventional romance and once again she makes me buy—she makes me love—things that would have me scratching my head with most other authors.
This book isn’t perfect and it would have definitely benefited from another round of proofreading to get rid of some typos and other small issues (mini non-spoilery rant under spoiler tags).
BUT I don’t even care about that because the story sucked me in—I went into it completely blind, I didn’t even read the blurb first, and I loved finding out about John and Caleb’s present and past little by little—about that, the chapter structure worked really well, with
The characters were fascinating and complex and I loved their dynamic. John and Caleb, of course, but the secondary characters too, especially Caleb’s father. Darren felt so very real, strong and resilient even with all the doubts and weaknesses that made him realistic. It’s rare enough to find such well-rounded main characters, it’s truly remarkable when it happens with a secondary one.
Like I said, Lisa Henry doing what she does best. I hope she'll keep doing it for a long time.
I don’t know how she pulls it off, but she always manages to walk me through intense and emotionally charged stories without making me feel miserable or hopeless for one second.
Once again, she writes an unconventional romance and once again she makes me buy—she makes me love—things that would have me scratching my head with most other authors.
This book isn’t perfect and it would have definitely benefited from another round of proofreading to get rid of some typos and other small issues (mini non-spoilery rant under spoiler tags).
BUT I don’t even care about that because the story sucked me in—I went into it completely blind, I didn’t even read the blurb first, and I loved finding out about John and Caleb’s present and past little by little—about that, the chapter structure worked really well, with
The characters were fascinating and complex and I loved their dynamic. John and Caleb, of course, but the secondary characters too, especially Caleb’s father. Darren felt so very real, strong and resilient even with all the doubts and weaknesses that made him realistic. It’s rare enough to find such well-rounded main characters, it’s truly remarkable when it happens with a secondary one.
Like I said, Lisa Henry doing what she does best. I hope she'll keep doing it for a long time.
dnf
June 28, 2020Audio 3.75 Stars
Story dnf @ 32%
I feel like I'm coming into a story that was already in progress. What flashbacks are given aren't enough to help me feel the connection between the MCs.
Story dnf @ 32%
I feel like I'm coming into a story that was already in progress. What flashbacks are given aren't enough to help me feel the connection between the MCs.
September 19, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
Caleb was still shaking. “It’s not fair. I love you and I want you, and it’s not fair.” “I know it’s not,” John said. His breath hitched. “I know.”
It’s a relief when you finally find a really good book when you’re in the middle of a reading slump. I don’t think I’m out of the slump yet, but this book was a lovely break in a sea of books and characters I don’t care about.
I did have pretty high hopes as it sounded like a book made for me. If you enjoy mental illness rep and hurt comfort as well as a smidge of pining and protector vibes then you really should give this book a go.
It’s quite different for a love story as they both already love each other and are super close, their relationship just evolves. I thought that was pretty perfect for the story as much of the focus needs to be on Caleb and his recovery.
Speaking of recovery, I’m happy to say there is no ✨magic dick✨ in this story. By the time the book starts it’s been 8 years since Caleb was rescued and he is not all of a sudden ‘cured’ just because he’s in a romantic relationship. He still struggles and it’s something they’ll have to navigate for a long time. It was really well done.
Love like that, you carried like a burden.
There’s some sweetness and a couple hot scenes, but it’s not ‘romance heavy’, but I thought it worked well for the characters. I didn’t feel like I missed out on the relationship development or anything.
I recommend checking out the content warnings as some parts of this book are pretty heavy.
Caleb wanted to live. He was a fighter but, like all fighters, sometimes he took a hit.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Rescue/rescuer
Small age gap
Past trauma
Healing
Police officer MC
Samoan MC
Size difference
Mutual pining
Hurt/comfort
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of death of parent (past)
Brief mention of rape (MC’s police case, no MC involved, no details)
Self harm (MC, cutting)
MC hospitalized
MC admitted to psychiatric hospital against will
Mentions of child murder (MC’s police case)
MC on psychiatric medication + sleeping pills
Brief mention of past animal abuse
Grief
PTSD symptoms
Details of past abuse of MC (cult)
Themes of religion
Religious trauma
Themes of homophobia (from religion and cult members/leader)
MC physically restrained by other MC to keep from hurting himself
MC sedated against will
Suicidal ideation
Violent outbursts during mental episodes
Pet dog stabbed (off page, survives)
MC abducted (off page)
Mention of bad guy committing suicide (off page)
Gun violence
Alcohol consumption
Some details of MC found beaten and starved (past)
Explicit sexual content
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Contemporary romance w/suspense elements
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Vers (no switching on page)
Main characters’ age: 22/23 and 30/31
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 292
Happy ending: Yes
“Do you remember what I said at the hospital?” John reached out and took Caleb’s hand, threading those slender fingers through his own. “If you feel like that again, I want you to promise that you’ll call someone. Me, or your dad, or your doctor.” “I mean to,” Caleb whispered. “I do, I swear. It’s just stuff gets in the way. Big stuff.” John squeezed his hand. “I know.” He didn’t, not really. Nobody except Caleb knew why he felt he was alone in the dark those times. Why there was no way out. Caleb stared at him. “You won’t give up on me, will you, John?” “Never.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Caleb was still shaking. “It’s not fair. I love you and I want you, and it’s not fair.” “I know it’s not,” John said. His breath hitched. “I know.”
It’s a relief when you finally find a really good book when you’re in the middle of a reading slump. I don’t think I’m out of the slump yet, but this book was a lovely break in a sea of books and characters I don’t care about.
I did have pretty high hopes as it sounded like a book made for me. If you enjoy mental illness rep and hurt comfort as well as a smidge of pining and protector vibes then you really should give this book a go.
It’s quite different for a love story as they both already love each other and are super close, their relationship just evolves. I thought that was pretty perfect for the story as much of the focus needs to be on Caleb and his recovery.
Speaking of recovery, I’m happy to say there is no ✨magic dick✨ in this story. By the time the book starts it’s been 8 years since Caleb was rescued and he is not all of a sudden ‘cured’ just because he’s in a romantic relationship. He still struggles and it’s something they’ll have to navigate for a long time. It was really well done.
Love like that, you carried like a burden.
There’s some sweetness and a couple hot scenes, but it’s not ‘romance heavy’, but I thought it worked well for the characters. I didn’t feel like I missed out on the relationship development or anything.
I recommend checking out the content warnings as some parts of this book are pretty heavy.
Caleb wanted to live. He was a fighter but, like all fighters, sometimes he took a hit.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Rescue/rescuer
Small age gap
Past trauma
Healing
Police officer MC
Samoan MC
Size difference
Mutual pining
Hurt/comfort
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of death of parent (past)
Brief mention of rape (MC’s police case, no MC involved, no details)
Self harm (MC, cutting)
MC hospitalized
MC admitted to psychiatric hospital against will
Mentions of child murder (MC’s police case)
MC on psychiatric medication + sleeping pills
Brief mention of past animal abuse
Grief
PTSD symptoms
Details of past abuse of MC (cult)
Themes of religion
Religious trauma
Themes of homophobia (from religion and cult members/leader)
MC physically restrained by other MC to keep from hurting himself
MC sedated against will
Suicidal ideation
Violent outbursts during mental episodes
Pet dog stabbed (off page, survives)
MC abducted (off page)
Mention of bad guy committing suicide (off page)
Gun violence
Alcohol consumption
Some details of MC found beaten and starved (past)
Explicit sexual content
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Contemporary romance w/suspense elements
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Vers (no switching on page)
Main characters’ age: 22/23 and 30/31
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: No
Pages: 292
Happy ending: Yes
“Do you remember what I said at the hospital?” John reached out and took Caleb’s hand, threading those slender fingers through his own. “If you feel like that again, I want you to promise that you’ll call someone. Me, or your dad, or your doctor.” “I mean to,” Caleb whispered. “I do, I swear. It’s just stuff gets in the way. Big stuff.” John squeezed his hand. “I know.” He didn’t, not really. Nobody except Caleb knew why he felt he was alone in the dark those times. Why there was no way out. Caleb stared at him. “You won’t give up on me, will you, John?” “Never.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
April 1, 2020
4.5 stars rounded down to 4 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR...full review to follow soonish!
I was looking for a few pithy words to explain...
what 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' was and what I discovered was that like many things the meaning of this parable is open to the readers interpretation but loosely speaking...
So, the picture painted in the Parable of the Mustard Seed by Jesus is of the humble beginnings of the church experiencing an explosive rate of growth. It grows large and becomes a source of food, rest, and shelter, for both believers and false professing individuals that seek to consume or take advantage of its benefits while residing or mixing among what was produced by the seed.
Making my one and only real concern after reading this and then seeing the word...'cult', that maybe things would go sideways and become 'overly' preachy to reinforce the whole 'cult' issue thankfully, I realized fairly early in that I could kick this concern to the curb as it quickly became evident that it was a non-issue.
At which point I have to admit I still wasn't really sure what I was getting into, but Lisa Henry was the author and I was sure whatever I was getting into was going to be good, and it was good...so much more than good.
My struggle really hasn't been so much about what to say as how to say it, but the time for procrastination is over and now it's simply time to jump in...
While this is a story with love in it...it's also about man's inhumanity to man and all in the name of religion, it's about the strength of the human spirit and it's ability to overcome the darkest of times with out losing the ability to love and trust again.
"The Parable of the Mustard Seed" is the story of the events that brought Australian-Samoan police officer John Faimu and Caleb Fletcher into each others lives. What happened wasn't pretty and if you're like me you might want to have some tissues on hand.
In this story the author takes us back to the beginning...back to the day that John first saw Caleb, when he took place in the police raid that freed Caleb from the cult that nearly killed him and as the story progresses we are shown events of the past at the beginning of each chapter bringing us into the present and giving a solid understanding of not just the relationship between John and Caleb but of who they are as individuals and of who Caleb is and what has shaped him into the person that he has become.
From the very beginning I liked John. His character was intrinsically good and although Caleb always feels like his priority at the heart of everything John does is his love, concern and respect not just for Caleb, but for everyone that he cares about.
While my feelings about Caleb weren't as clear at the beginning what he had endured became clear fairly early in the story and my heart broke for him...no child should go through what Caleb did but it's through the retelling of Caleb's past that I came to embrace what a truly amazing person he became. What Caleb endured wasn't just physical abuse there was emotional and psychological torment as well and he was betrayed by his mother...there is no forgiveness for what she did to him.
There were also a lot of wonderful characters in this story John's family from his mother right down to his sister's Mary and Jessie, his brother David, his partner on the police force Liz and Caleb's father Darren just to mention a few.
While 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' isn't as dark as some of Ms Henry's other works such as 'While All the World Sleeps' it's also a far cry from the fun that is 'Adulting 101' but like both of these books, it is an excellent story worth reading.
If you're looking for a story with a lot of hot, steamy sex. then you'll probably be disappointed, but if you also like stories where the relationship between the MCs has a slow burn with a very palpable sense of how much the MCs cherish each other contained within it's pages...then I truly believe you need to check this one out.
*************************
An ARC of 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was looking for a few pithy words to explain...
what 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' was and what I discovered was that like many things the meaning of this parable is open to the readers interpretation but loosely speaking...
So, the picture painted in the Parable of the Mustard Seed by Jesus is of the humble beginnings of the church experiencing an explosive rate of growth. It grows large and becomes a source of food, rest, and shelter, for both believers and false professing individuals that seek to consume or take advantage of its benefits while residing or mixing among what was produced by the seed.what 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' was and what I discovered was that like many things the meaning of this parable is open to the readers interpretation but loosely speaking...
So, the picture painted in the Parable of the Mustard Seed by Jesus is of the humble beginnings of the church experiencing an explosive rate of growth. It grows large and becomes a source of food, rest, and shelter, for both believers and false professing individuals that seek to consume or take advantage of its benefits while residing or mixing among what was produced by the seed.
Making my one and only real concern after reading this and then seeing the word...'cult', that maybe things would go sideways and become 'overly' preachy to reinforce the whole 'cult' issue thankfully, I realized fairly early in that I could kick this concern to the curb as it quickly became evident that it was a non-issue.
At which point I have to admit I still wasn't really sure what I was getting into, but Lisa Henry was the author and I was sure whatever I was getting into was going to be good, and it was good...so much more than good.
My struggle really hasn't been so much about what to say as how to say it, but the time for procrastination is over and now it's simply time to jump in...
While this is a story with love in it...it's also about man's inhumanity to man and all in the name of religion, it's about the strength of the human spirit and it's ability to overcome the darkest of times with out losing the ability to love and trust again.
"The Parable of the Mustard Seed" is the story of the events that brought Australian-Samoan police officer John Faimu and Caleb Fletcher into each others lives. What happened wasn't pretty and if you're like me you might want to have some tissues on hand.
In this story the author takes us back to the beginning...back to the day that John first saw Caleb, when he took place in the police raid that freed Caleb from the cult that nearly killed him and as the story progresses we are shown events of the past at the beginning of each chapter bringing us into the present and giving a solid understanding of not just the relationship between John and Caleb but of who they are as individuals and of who Caleb is and what has shaped him into the person that he has become.
From the very beginning I liked John. His character was intrinsically good and although Caleb always feels like his priority at the heart of everything John does is his love, concern and respect not just for Caleb, but for everyone that he cares about.
While my feelings about Caleb weren't as clear at the beginning what he had endured became clear fairly early in the story and my heart broke for him...no child should go through what Caleb did but it's through the retelling of Caleb's past that I came to embrace what a truly amazing person he became. What Caleb endured wasn't just physical abuse there was emotional and psychological torment as well and he was betrayed by his mother...there is no forgiveness for what she did to him.
There were also a lot of wonderful characters in this story John's family from his mother right down to his sister's Mary and Jessie, his brother David, his partner on the police force Liz and Caleb's father Darren just to mention a few.
While 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' isn't as dark as some of Ms Henry's other works such as 'While All the World Sleeps' it's also a far cry from the fun that is 'Adulting 101' but like both of these books, it is an excellent story worth reading.
If you're looking for a story with a lot of hot, steamy sex. then you'll probably be disappointed, but if you also like stories where the relationship between the MCs has a slow burn with a very palpable sense of how much the MCs cherish each other contained within it's pages...then I truly believe you need to check this one out.
*************************
An ARC of 'The Parable of the Mustard Seed' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2020
Tag team review with R!
4.5 stars!
Every once in a while I come across a pair of characters that I just know I’m going to be thinking about for a while. Caleb and John are now in that category.
Their love story is a fragile yet hopeful one.These two men go through tragedy and one hurdle after another.
And yet there is never any doubt that John and Caleb are absolutely committed to each other, no matter what happens.
Caleb and John are already in love when the book starts, the years of friendship having progressed to more at some random point. I’m not usually a fan of this setup, as it often means that readers don’t really see the relationship development.
But that definitely wasn’t the case here! Between the flashbacks and the two men taking things step by step, I never felt that I missed any part of their romance.
My heart hurt for Caleb. What he goes through as a boy is shattering, but his inner strength was undeniable. The book pulls no punches. Caleb’s recovery and setbacks are an on-going process. But he does get better, and a big part of that is John.
I loved how absolutely devoted John was, both as a friend and then as a lover. Regardless of what was going on, Caleb always came first. And Caleb reciprocates that, in his own way.
The two have an unwavering bond that bends and morphs, but never breaks. I think that’s what stood out the most for me - just how constant their love for each other was, no matter what form it took throughout the years.
Family also plays a major role in Caleb and John’s relationship. John’s big clan and Caleb’s father are just as much a part of the story as the two main characters. As someone who comes from a very tight-knit family myself, I quite liked the dynamic!
That being said, this isn’t an easy romance, despite the support of family and the love the two men have for each other. It’s acknowledged that there’s no magic solution for Caleb and the psychological scars from what he went through.
However, there is a happy ever after for John and Caleb, and a brilliant one at that! It takes a lot of work, and a reckoning with the past, but they get all the sunshine and joy that they so deserve!
If you’re looking for an angst-heavy yet brilliant love story, I’d highly recommend ‘The Parable of the Mustard Seed’!
4.5 stars!
Every once in a while I come across a pair of characters that I just know I’m going to be thinking about for a while. Caleb and John are now in that category.
Their love story is a fragile yet hopeful one.These two men go through tragedy and one hurdle after another.
And yet there is never any doubt that John and Caleb are absolutely committed to each other, no matter what happens.
Caleb and John are already in love when the book starts, the years of friendship having progressed to more at some random point. I’m not usually a fan of this setup, as it often means that readers don’t really see the relationship development.
But that definitely wasn’t the case here! Between the flashbacks and the two men taking things step by step, I never felt that I missed any part of their romance.
My heart hurt for Caleb. What he goes through as a boy is shattering, but his inner strength was undeniable. The book pulls no punches. Caleb’s recovery and setbacks are an on-going process. But he does get better, and a big part of that is John.
I loved how absolutely devoted John was, both as a friend and then as a lover. Regardless of what was going on, Caleb always came first. And Caleb reciprocates that, in his own way.
The two have an unwavering bond that bends and morphs, but never breaks. I think that’s what stood out the most for me - just how constant their love for each other was, no matter what form it took throughout the years.
Family also plays a major role in Caleb and John’s relationship. John’s big clan and Caleb’s father are just as much a part of the story as the two main characters. As someone who comes from a very tight-knit family myself, I quite liked the dynamic!
That being said, this isn’t an easy romance, despite the support of family and the love the two men have for each other. It’s acknowledged that there’s no magic solution for Caleb and the psychological scars from what he went through.
However, there is a happy ever after for John and Caleb, and a brilliant one at that! It takes a lot of work, and a reckoning with the past, but they get all the sunshine and joy that they so deserve!
If you’re looking for an angst-heavy yet brilliant love story, I’d highly recommend ‘The Parable of the Mustard Seed’!
April 8, 2020
‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.’
Reading Lisa Henry's latest, The Parable of the Mustard Seed, is like a balm to my weary soul. Sure, the story is not exactly a light happy one.
Caleb Fletcher, who suffers from PTSD and has the tendency to harm himself after the trauma he experienced eight years previous, was NOT going to suddenly have his life all good and happy. It's a continuous recovery process.
However, John Faimu will also be by his side. John who rescued Caleb, and has always loved the younger man since day one. As well as Caleb's father, his therapist, and heck, Caleb's own Kelpie dog Cricket. And John has his partner, Liz, and his parents and family to be with John as well. Together they're strong.
There's kindness and gentleness and strong love from family... and most of all, there's HOPE in this book.
Yes, HOPE... and as I am entering week-four of working from home, after the outside world turns upside down with the Covid-19 outbreak, I KNOW that this is the word I need. I haven't hugged my parents for months. I can only see them from video call. It's a tough world now and yes, HOPE... that no matter how difficult it has been, we can together appreciate the good days and HOPE that it will over soon.
Love wasn’t a cure, or an answer, or the part that came at the end of the story... Love was a promise
September 15, 2020
Beautiful angsty hurt-comfort story. The book starts, and we soon find out that John and Caleb are already in love with each other. But John can't be with Caleb, because he is too scared of hurting him, scared of making things worse if it didn't work between them. Because Caleb is so fragile, so broken.
"Because if he started it, and then it ended… Might as well rip Caleb’s heart out and leave him to die. Might as well take a knife and slice open Caleb’s wrists himself."
We see Caleb's daily struggles, and we see flashbacks of what he went through 8 years ago. It's awful. It's heartbreaking. But John and Darren, Caleb's dad, are always there to pick up the pieces when Caleb breaks down. John and Caleb's relationship was beautiful, but almost like a father-son. Or may I say, Daddy/little, without the kink. I loved them together though. My heart hurt so much for all of them. Caleb. John. But also Darren. I can't imagine. And all the other children that suffered in that horrible place.
I loved reading about Samoan culture, and John's family. And Australia.
What didn't work for me:
- I would have preferred a longer story about Caleb's journey into healing. I could have done without the events that start around 75%. I found it took away from the love and healing story.
- I can't get over the fact that John was not removed from the investigation once he was involved with Caleb. No. That's just wrong, unethical and unsafe. Please.
- I would have loved an epilogue further in the future, to see how Caleb is doing.
I really loved this book overall despite my annoyances.
"Because if he started it, and then it ended… Might as well rip Caleb’s heart out and leave him to die. Might as well take a knife and slice open Caleb’s wrists himself."
We see Caleb's daily struggles, and we see flashbacks of what he went through 8 years ago. It's awful. It's heartbreaking. But John and Darren, Caleb's dad, are always there to pick up the pieces when Caleb breaks down. John and Caleb's relationship was beautiful, but almost like a father-son. Or may I say, Daddy/little, without the kink. I loved them together though. My heart hurt so much for all of them. Caleb. John. But also Darren. I can't imagine. And all the other children that suffered in that horrible place.
I loved reading about Samoan culture, and John's family. And Australia.
What didn't work for me:
- I would have preferred a longer story about Caleb's journey into healing. I could have done without the events that start around 75%. I found it took away from the love and healing story.
- I can't get over the fact that John was not removed from the investigation once he was involved with Caleb. No. That's just wrong, unethical and unsafe. Please.
- I would have loved an epilogue further in the future, to see how Caleb is doing.
I really loved this book overall despite my annoyances.
August 3, 2022
Story: 4.25 ⭐️
Narration: 4 ⭐️
If there is one thing Lisa Henry gonna do, it’s give us a very emotional story with lots of trauma. Overall, I really enjoyed this one.
April 6, 2020
An extraordinary story! Reading it was something special, in this story you’ll find John a police officer who works for the Child Protection department. Eight years ago, at twenty-three, his life collided with Caleb’s, a boy of fifteen years, heavily abused, neglected and almost dead.
Throughout this read, we get to know his incredible story.
Caleb trusts John and now eight years later he wants more with John. John loves Caleb for a long time but will never risk breaking the heart and friendship of this fragile but oh so strong man, the strongest man John ever met.
“It was his spirit he fell in love with first. All of the rest came later.”
In retrospect, we get to look into this story, from the very beginning until now. It’s more than enough to digest. What Caleb went through in his life can’t be described with words, the hurt, the torture, there are no words, only silence, and tears.
Caleb was always something special to John, from the very first moment John felt something special for Caleb.
Caleb is always on his mind. Together with Darren, Caleb’s father, they take care of Caleb, as family, not as a job, never as a job.
He can’t risk breaking Caleb’s heart, it’s too fragile, too precious. Instead, he let his own tender heart break many times over the years.
“I love him, and I want him, and I know he wants me too, but we can’t. We can’t.”
After all the horror of the past and the struggling of the present you’d think that was it, I thought it was, but no, there is more. I had trouble getting through this because it’s so hard. So you sit, read and be stunned.
John’s beautiful words in his Samoan language was stunning, I heard and felt them.
“Ou te alofa ia te oe.”
“manamea”
Gosh what an impressive story, not an easy one, but the kind, thoughtful way of writing made up to the content.
Heartbreaking moments, tender-hearted, affectionately moments. There is also humor, sweet, silly, warm humor.
Their connection is so strong and John’s love unconditional, Caleb will always come first.
A special shout out to Darren because he showed what fatherly love is all about.
Queensland, Australia and her natives as main scenery were special, very special!
I think the author did a marvelous job with this story, the balance between almost too much and just the right weight was so well done. It could have been a completely other experience without all the care that was given to the story. The cruelty was tough and hard to digest, but Caleb’s strength and the unconditional love present was the best of the best.
I'm floored and out of words. Highly recommended!
Throughout this read, we get to know his incredible story.
Caleb trusts John and now eight years later he wants more with John. John loves Caleb for a long time but will never risk breaking the heart and friendship of this fragile but oh so strong man, the strongest man John ever met.
“It was his spirit he fell in love with first. All of the rest came later.”
In retrospect, we get to look into this story, from the very beginning until now. It’s more than enough to digest. What Caleb went through in his life can’t be described with words, the hurt, the torture, there are no words, only silence, and tears.
Caleb was always something special to John, from the very first moment John felt something special for Caleb.
Caleb is always on his mind. Together with Darren, Caleb’s father, they take care of Caleb, as family, not as a job, never as a job.
He can’t risk breaking Caleb’s heart, it’s too fragile, too precious. Instead, he let his own tender heart break many times over the years.
“I love him, and I want him, and I know he wants me too, but we can’t. We can’t.”
After all the horror of the past and the struggling of the present you’d think that was it, I thought it was, but no, there is more. I had trouble getting through this because it’s so hard. So you sit, read and be stunned.
John’s beautiful words in his Samoan language was stunning, I heard and felt them.
“Ou te alofa ia te oe.”
“manamea”
Gosh what an impressive story, not an easy one, but the kind, thoughtful way of writing made up to the content.
Heartbreaking moments, tender-hearted, affectionately moments. There is also humor, sweet, silly, warm humor.
Their connection is so strong and John’s love unconditional, Caleb will always come first.
A special shout out to Darren because he showed what fatherly love is all about.
Queensland, Australia and her natives as main scenery were special, very special!
I think the author did a marvelous job with this story, the balance between almost too much and just the right weight was so well done. It could have been a completely other experience without all the care that was given to the story. The cruelty was tough and hard to digest, but Caleb’s strength and the unconditional love present was the best of the best.
I'm floored and out of words. Highly recommended!
April 27, 2020
Intense and heartfelt, The Parable of the Mustard Seed by Lisa Henry combines the story of the relationship between a cop working in a children's protection unit and a young man involved in one of his former investigations with issues such as PSTD and religious cults.
Written in a terse and clear style, the novel touched me especially for the way it presents its characters, from John and Caleb to the secondary ones, such as Darren and John's family.
Caleb was especially moving in his combination of trauma, fragility and iron will to make his way through life.
I've read a number of Lisa Henry's books now and I always appreciate her capacity to construct stories that are full of angst but devoid of cheap mechanisms to trigger the reader's emotions.
The Parable of the Mustard Seed (by the way, amazing title and cover!) is no exception.
Recommended!
Written in a terse and clear style, the novel touched me especially for the way it presents its characters, from John and Caleb to the secondary ones, such as Darren and John's family.
Caleb was especially moving in his combination of trauma, fragility and iron will to make his way through life.
I've read a number of Lisa Henry's books now and I always appreciate her capacity to construct stories that are full of angst but devoid of cheap mechanisms to trigger the reader's emotions.
The Parable of the Mustard Seed (by the way, amazing title and cover!) is no exception.
Recommended!
April 14, 2020
Disappointing
Too many mental monologues repeating the same things over again (and again). I'm also severely disappointed this story lacked the usual banter between characters that I look forward to when picking up a Lisa Henry book.
Too many mental monologues repeating the same things over again (and again). I'm also severely disappointed this story lacked the usual banter between characters that I look forward to when picking up a Lisa Henry book.
May 26, 2020
Beautifully written, painfully angsty ... a riot of emotions on continual slow burn. There are a lot of lovely messages in this story if you read deeply enough. Really lovely
April 22, 2020
4.5 stars
April 23, 2020
Angst, so much angst, hurt and pain... But also so much love. What a journey!
Absolutely recommended
Absolutely recommended
June 27, 2020
4 Stars
May 18, 2022
Bellissimo!! 🤩
Una storia commovente e atroce, su come una setta religiosa malata di mente, possa spezzare la mente e il fisico di persone cosi pure d'animo.
L'amore, non dico che guarisce tutto, ma ti da quella forza, quel coraggio, quella scintilla, quelle radici, dove anche se tu ti perdi o ti fai del male, ti riporta in vita.
Consigliato ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️+
Una storia commovente e atroce, su come una setta religiosa malata di mente, possa spezzare la mente e il fisico di persone cosi pure d'animo.
L'amore, non dico che guarisce tutto, ma ti da quella forza, quel coraggio, quella scintilla, quelle radici, dove anche se tu ti perdi o ti fai del male, ti riporta in vita.
Consigliato ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️+
April 7, 2020
Didn’t quite finish, I’m afraid. Unfortunately I have to admit that I found the characters irritating and I didn’t believe the relationship between John and Caleb. I wanted to appreciate the subject matter - and this story, but I found it repetitive and had no empathy for Caleb, despite what he had been through. I love Lisa Henry’s books but was very disappointed.
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