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The Innocent for the Guilty
*(An award-winning Christian novella with a touch of romance.) When Troy Daniels and his family arrive in Spring River, Wyoming, Toby, the town's busybody, is certain the young man is on the run. His suspicions are well Troy is facing serious accusations from a former friend, the possible loss of someone close to his heart, and the probability of death. Lots of twists and turns in the plot and a surprise ending in this beautiful story of vengeance, love, and forgiveness set in the old American West. (*The Innocent for the Guilty has won a five-star gold book award from Literary Titan, the Pencraft Spring Book Award for 2024, and 1st place in the 2024 Christian Indie Awards - novella category.)
- GenresRomance
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2022
12 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Sandi Rebert
10 books122 followersAn award-winning author, Sandi Rebert is the wife of pastor Brian Rebert. Together, they have ministered in rural Maine for over forty years. They are blessed to have three grown children, a son-in-law and daughter-in-law, plus six grandchildren. Sandi has written over twenty Christian plays, cantatas, and programs used in churches across the US and several foreign countries. She now has eight Christian historical novels, with more in the planning stages. Teaching private music lessons led to the writing of a Christian piano course, “Praising God on the Piano.” She also enjoys art and playing various musical instruments.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 6, 2022
This is a beautiful and uplifting story about a young man and his entire family who, even though things were not going well, still displayed God's love to the fullest. This is a story of mystery, drama, vengeance, town busybody and gossip, suspense, forgiveness, redemption, a surprise and romance. This is Troy Daniels' story along with the entire Daniels Family especially his mother Mary. It is a real page turner, and I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. I look forward to the next story in the series to see what happens to some of the interesting townsfolk who were mentioned in this story.
August 30, 2022
Yes I read this in two days, and the only reason I didn’t read it in one session is because I need to, y’know… eat and sleep? I love the cleanliness and the clear gospel message. I can see myself reading this again, and maybe even once every year as I do with my most favorites. I highly recommend this book and the author!
September 23, 2022
2022
I absolutely love reading anything and everything by Sandi Rebert who has definitely given me a roller coaster ride while reading this book. It captured my attention on the very first page and kept me entertained and engaged to the very last page. I actually forgot how far along I was in the book, as I was so engrossed in it, and I couldn’t believe it ended the way it did to my surprise. Troy Daniels is hiding a big secret and is trying to start a new life on the run. He ends up in Wyoming with his Mother and Sister and settles in, but he encounters someone in town who has nothin better to do than get in other people’s business. He ends up causing him a whole lot of trouble when he uncovers his secret. If Troy can’t prove he is innocent, it could end up with serious, deadly consequences for him. He must rely on God’s faithfulness and belief that God will work everything out for his good. Will his faith in God stand firm and grow under all the trials in his life, and will he decide to trust Jesus even if it is not the Lord’s will that he be found innocent and turns out another way? Also, will he be able to forgive those who are trying to hurt him as much as possible, or will he desire to seek vengeance on those who have lied about the situation? This story deals with vengeance, forgiveness, God’s Grace, witnessing and concern for others’ eternal destination. This story is a Christian western, and has lots of mystery, suspense, and trusting God in the most dire circumstances. It has a slight bit of romance in it, but very tolerable for those who aren’t into that as a main story. Sandi’s books always portray the salvation message as doesn’t water it down in any way. I love how she weaves the gospel in every book she writes, and especially this one, and does not shy away from it, which in my experience is rare that it is that strong in a book, and that is an absolutely wonderful to find in my opinion. The way she shares the gospel message in her books, and makes it incredibly clear that a child can understand, makes me incredibly blessed that there are a few Christian authors still out there that will take Christ’s command “to the ends of the earth,” seriously and write it into their story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, especially a Christian Western, with all the twist and turns, mystery and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens next and find the answers our about what happens with some of the other characters whose story wasn’t complete. I highly recommend The Innocent for the Guilty. You will not be disappointed at all.
I absolutely love reading anything and everything by Sandi Rebert who has definitely given me a roller coaster ride while reading this book. It captured my attention on the very first page and kept me entertained and engaged to the very last page. I actually forgot how far along I was in the book, as I was so engrossed in it, and I couldn’t believe it ended the way it did to my surprise. Troy Daniels is hiding a big secret and is trying to start a new life on the run. He ends up in Wyoming with his Mother and Sister and settles in, but he encounters someone in town who has nothin better to do than get in other people’s business. He ends up causing him a whole lot of trouble when he uncovers his secret. If Troy can’t prove he is innocent, it could end up with serious, deadly consequences for him. He must rely on God’s faithfulness and belief that God will work everything out for his good. Will his faith in God stand firm and grow under all the trials in his life, and will he decide to trust Jesus even if it is not the Lord’s will that he be found innocent and turns out another way? Also, will he be able to forgive those who are trying to hurt him as much as possible, or will he desire to seek vengeance on those who have lied about the situation? This story deals with vengeance, forgiveness, God’s Grace, witnessing and concern for others’ eternal destination. This story is a Christian western, and has lots of mystery, suspense, and trusting God in the most dire circumstances. It has a slight bit of romance in it, but very tolerable for those who aren’t into that as a main story. Sandi’s books always portray the salvation message as doesn’t water it down in any way. I love how she weaves the gospel in every book she writes, and especially this one, and does not shy away from it, which in my experience is rare that it is that strong in a book, and that is an absolutely wonderful to find in my opinion. The way she shares the gospel message in her books, and makes it incredibly clear that a child can understand, makes me incredibly blessed that there are a few Christian authors still out there that will take Christ’s command “to the ends of the earth,” seriously and write it into their story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, especially a Christian Western, with all the twist and turns, mystery and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens next and find the answers our about what happens with some of the other characters whose story wasn’t complete. I highly recommend The Innocent for the Guilty. You will not be disappointed at all.
April 4, 2023
This is an excellent historical (US western) story that tugs at the emotions (a good thing!). It tells the story of a young man wrongly tainted and accused of serious crime - all due to who is father is. The title refers to a central idea of the innocent son taking a conviction or bullet for the guilty father or for the innocent Jesus dying for the guilty mankind. Another major theme is caring about the eternal fate of a person - even when not liking that person AT ALL. The book does end satisfyingly with the expected HEA from the romance in the novel of our hero. I highly recommend this short Christian novel to everyone.
September 20, 2022
Troy, Mary, and Angie
This is an unusual love story. Troy ad his sister, Angie are the children of outlaw, Killer Colby Daniels. Their mother, Mary has raised them mostly on her own. They’ve decided to secretly leave town to get away from the ridicule and persecution from their neighbors for their father’s/husbands sins. They find solis in the people in the town of Spring River. That is until Rod shows up accusing him of murdering his little sister while robbing his home. You will enjoy discovering how this good Christian family finds love and acceptance there.
This is an unusual love story. Troy ad his sister, Angie are the children of outlaw, Killer Colby Daniels. Their mother, Mary has raised them mostly on her own. They’ve decided to secretly leave town to get away from the ridicule and persecution from their neighbors for their father’s/husbands sins. They find solis in the people in the town of Spring River. That is until Rod shows up accusing him of murdering his little sister while robbing his home. You will enjoy discovering how this good Christian family finds love and acceptance there.
August 7, 2024
Fantastic
Heart pounding mystery surrounding a young man named Troy. The twists and turns will definitely keep you turning page after page. The most important part of this book was the undying faith in God. No matter how dire the circumstances this young man and his family always trusted in the Lord. I highly recommend reading this story. You will never be disappointed because there is a little bit of everything from uncertainty, mystery to love. Just a fantastic read!
Heart pounding mystery surrounding a young man named Troy. The twists and turns will definitely keep you turning page after page. The most important part of this book was the undying faith in God. No matter how dire the circumstances this young man and his family always trusted in the Lord. I highly recommend reading this story. You will never be disappointed because there is a little bit of everything from uncertainty, mystery to love. Just a fantastic read!
September 23, 2022
such a different read
This is such a different read then the ones I have read before. There a mystery, in this read. There is love of family and god in this read. There is murder, in this read. This read is well written and kept me on the edge all the way threw the read. Enjoyable read at that.
This is such a different read then the ones I have read before. There a mystery, in this read. There is love of family and god in this read. There is murder, in this read. This read is well written and kept me on the edge all the way threw the read. Enjoyable read at that.
September 15, 2023
Good!
If you want a Christian novel, this is a good one to read.
A young man whose father chose to be an outlaw. But, his Mama was a woman who loved the Lord and reared her children to love Him too.
That didn't stop hardship and a charge of murder to come against her innocent son.
Living out one's Christian faith in the midst of all this?
Read and see.
Really good!
If you want a Christian novel, this is a good one to read.
A young man whose father chose to be an outlaw. But, his Mama was a woman who loved the Lord and reared her children to love Him too.
That didn't stop hardship and a charge of murder to come against her innocent son.
Living out one's Christian faith in the midst of all this?
Read and see.
Really good!
May 1, 2023
The Innocent for the Guilty by Sandi Rebert was phenomenal. This book had me hooked from the very beginning. I didn't just read this story, I felt it! This is most definitely a five star book, I highly recommend it. I am definitely reading more books from this author! Phenomenal job!
September 10, 2023
Guilty before being proven innocent or Innocent before being proven guilty? Someone has to pay for the murder…a story that is easy to read fast because you want to know what happens! There’s love, forgiveness and an inspirational message!
May 29, 2024
I liked the excitement in this western about a young man overcoming the influence of his outlaw father. Most people seemed to judge him because of his father's reputation. Some people still had faith in him and the rest of the family kept their faith in God.
October 4, 2022
This book wasn’t just a story, it was an experience! Having been raised by his mother, as had his sister, Angie, Troy grew up rarely seeing his abusive father until the night he demanded Troy come with him and his cohorts to commit yet another crime. Tragedy occurred resulting in the death of Troy’s best friend’s little sister, causing the arrest of Troy, a trial declared a mistrial and his mother, sister and himself running to avoid the angry mob determined to see him hang. As their faith in The One Who continued to sustain them was tested, they knew He was the only answer for their present and their future. But were they strong enough in their faith? Does God still perform miracles? A well written, captivating book, my first by this author, but not my last!
April 18, 2023
Great book
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is well written. I'm glad there was a happily ever after. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is well written. I'm glad there was a happily ever after. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 22, 2022
I highly recommend The Innocent for the Guilty!! It was such a great read and so many things rolled into one. It had suspense, mystery, romance and an amazing cast of characters!! It was a great reminder of when life seems out of control, God is still in control!
February 16, 2024
Troy Daniels, his mom, and his little sister are on the run from those who refuse to believe Troy is innocent of the charges he is accused of. Set in the late winter of 1891, the family is forced to leave their home and travel west, where they end up in a small ranching town called Spring River, Wyoming. Troy was tried for murder and acquitted, but the family of the victim still believes he is guilty and will go to extreme lengths to get justice for their lost loved one. Can Troy's family's faith in God strengthen them as the truth about that dark night comes to light?
The Innocent for the Guilty by Sandi Rebert blends a heartwarming Christian romance with a thrilling Western novel. Rebert does a fantastic job with flashbacks and dialogue to tell the full story of how the family ended up where they are. This literary device keeps readers engaged because they feel like they are there listening to Troy tell his story and not getting it from a narrator. The author also has a captivating way of describing things. This passage stood out to me, "Time seemed to crawl by on the stumpy feet of a tortoise yet fly by on the swift wings of an eagle." This writing style helps readers connect to the characters and the situation, allowing them to feel the deep emotions that this story brings out.
What set this novel apart for me in the Christian fiction genre is how the author used her characters to spread the word of God without coming across as a sermon. Instead, the power of faith is shown through Troy and his family's unwavering faith and the gentle way they share their beliefs with others by being themselves, how they treat others, sharing their faith when asked, or through casual conversation. There is also the message of forgiveness that no matter what, holding onto hate only feeds darkness in the soul. The author shows that forgiveness is not easy but is essential for inner peace.
The Innocent for the Guilty is a story of faith, family, and forgiveness. The novel is for any reader who enjoys a heartwarming story set in the Old West. The quick pace and the relatable characters make this a great book to pick up when you need a story of hope for when everything seems like it is falling apart around you.
The Innocent for the Guilty by Sandi Rebert blends a heartwarming Christian romance with a thrilling Western novel. Rebert does a fantastic job with flashbacks and dialogue to tell the full story of how the family ended up where they are. This literary device keeps readers engaged because they feel like they are there listening to Troy tell his story and not getting it from a narrator. The author also has a captivating way of describing things. This passage stood out to me, "Time seemed to crawl by on the stumpy feet of a tortoise yet fly by on the swift wings of an eagle." This writing style helps readers connect to the characters and the situation, allowing them to feel the deep emotions that this story brings out.
What set this novel apart for me in the Christian fiction genre is how the author used her characters to spread the word of God without coming across as a sermon. Instead, the power of faith is shown through Troy and his family's unwavering faith and the gentle way they share their beliefs with others by being themselves, how they treat others, sharing their faith when asked, or through casual conversation. There is also the message of forgiveness that no matter what, holding onto hate only feeds darkness in the soul. The author shows that forgiveness is not easy but is essential for inner peace.
The Innocent for the Guilty is a story of faith, family, and forgiveness. The novel is for any reader who enjoys a heartwarming story set in the Old West. The quick pace and the relatable characters make this a great book to pick up when you need a story of hope for when everything seems like it is falling apart around you.
January 31, 2024
I loved this book!
The characters were real.
Tess Williams (Mom) and Jeremy Williams (Pop) were my favorite character(s) because they took in Troy, Angie, and Mama without question, giving Troy a job and fetching a doctor for Angie.
The story was captivating.
I will definitely recommend this book to my friends.
I’m really glad the author wrote more books in this series because I want to know more about Mary and Angie.
I look forward to reading more books by this author because I love the way she reveals the spiritual side of her characters.
Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
“Jesus Christ truly was innocent. Yet, He willingly shed His blood and gave His life for the guilty. He was the only One Who could pay the penalty for our sin because He was the sinless Son of God.”
“Jesus died for the sins of everyone who’s ever lived, but His death only pays for our sins if we ask Him to forgive us. A man has to repent – be sorry for his sin, turn away from them -“
“Tomorrow will be too late. There is no chance to receive Christ after death.”
“None of us deserve God’s forgiveness but no one is beyond saving. Christ came to call sinners to repentance. He came to seek and to save that which was lost. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. All you need to do is pray -.”
“I award the book ‘The Innocent for The Guilty’ a 5-star rating for its compelling story and captivating characters.”
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The characters were real.
Tess Williams (Mom) and Jeremy Williams (Pop) were my favorite character(s) because they took in Troy, Angie, and Mama without question, giving Troy a job and fetching a doctor for Angie.
The story was captivating.
I will definitely recommend this book to my friends.
I’m really glad the author wrote more books in this series because I want to know more about Mary and Angie.
I look forward to reading more books by this author because I love the way she reveals the spiritual side of her characters.
Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
“Jesus Christ truly was innocent. Yet, He willingly shed His blood and gave His life for the guilty. He was the only One Who could pay the penalty for our sin because He was the sinless Son of God.”
“Jesus died for the sins of everyone who’s ever lived, but His death only pays for our sins if we ask Him to forgive us. A man has to repent – be sorry for his sin, turn away from them -“
“Tomorrow will be too late. There is no chance to receive Christ after death.”
“None of us deserve God’s forgiveness but no one is beyond saving. Christ came to call sinners to repentance. He came to seek and to save that which was lost. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. All you need to do is pray -.”
“I award the book ‘The Innocent for The Guilty’ a 5-star rating for its compelling story and captivating characters.”
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 3, 2023
Wow! This is such an inspiring story! Troy had been on trail for murder, but it ended in a mistrial, so he was free…or was he? He, his mother and little sister Angie felt like they needed to leave their home, and go far away. When they stopped in the small town of Spring River. they immediately knew it was a place they could live. But for how long? Having faith in God was the only hope they had. Can their faith remain solid when Troy’s past catches up with him? Having survived one trail, one attempted hanging, and now another trail, now he has no witnesses except God, and those who were involved. How can he convince everyone that he is innocent and that his name shouldn’t have any influence on the decision that will change his life forever. I definitely recommend this book of faith, love, trust, and enduring
September 14, 2022
This is a very good book with a clear presentation of the Gospel. The main character feels guilty for his part in a crime and is burdened by the weight of sin. As the story unfolds, more details come to light in regards to innocence and guilt. In our lives, we experience guilt for sins we commit, yet God extends forgiveness and offers to cleanse our hearts and help us start afresh. This story includes a clear presentation of the Gospel and many quotations from the Bible. It is a wholesome, refreshing read and will encourage you in your walk with God. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All comments above are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All comments above are my own.
August 1, 2025
The Innocent for the Guilty is a heartfelt, faith-filled novella read. Set in Silver River, Wyoming, the well-written, fast-paced storyline grabbed my interest quickly and kept me reading attentively to the conclusion. Although the story is short, it is fully developed and satisfying. Skillfully crafted characters--even the ones I had a hard time liking--drive the story. A touch of romance boosts the emotional intensity and adds another level of interest. I especially appreciate the very strong spiritual element with emphasis on salvation and forgiveness plus witnessing and living out one's faith daily. If you are looking for a quick, uplifting read, try this one!
September 9, 2023
Troy is running with his mom and little sister from an incident his outlaw father implicated him in resulting in the death of a child. Left at the scene, he was immediately arrested, blamed and about to be hanged when he managed to escape. However, it followed him and his family two territories away, despite attempting to start over. His only hope was holding onto his faith with everything and everyone else against him. Heartwarming CF historical western with many twists and turns for a sweet and clean entertaining bedtime read.
March 16, 2023
Just finished reading this book by Sandi Rebert. It was a good read. New author to me. The setting is in the 1891 when hanging was not an uncommon occurrence .
A beautiful story of love & forgiveness.
Troy Daniels has been dealt a bad hand with his dad being a known criminal. After being accused of a crime Troy and his mom and sister leave their home town to start a new life in a small town in Wyoming. Lots of mystery . “When life seems out of control, God is still in control”.
A beautiful story of love & forgiveness.
Troy Daniels has been dealt a bad hand with his dad being a known criminal. After being accused of a crime Troy and his mom and sister leave their home town to start a new life in a small town in Wyoming. Lots of mystery . “When life seems out of control, God is still in control”.
April 30, 2023
This book has been such an amazing book. I never thought I would be so captivated by a book set in the old west (Boy was I wrong). The trials that this family went through is beyond heartbreaking. Just when you think your life can’t get any worse it does, but with faith in Jesus all things are possible. The forgiveness that this family has for everyone just shows how much faith can help a person. This is only the second book that I have read by Sandi Rebert the first book was Redemptions Promise and it was equally fantastic. I can’t wait for the next book in this series, at least I hope it will be a series. It seems like I just started reading this book and then I was finished. Absolutely phenomenal. I definitely will be looking up more books by this author.
April 27, 2023
This is my first time reading a book by Sandi Ebert and I enjoyed it very much. The story is very uplifting. It's a story of great love of family, good friendships and great faith in God. Looking forward to the sequel.
May 8, 2023
What a wonderful faith filled story. I loved everything about this book; the characters, the plot and how the author shows that with God all things are possible. This book is full of drama, suspense and sweet romance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction.
April 4, 2024
well written
This was a clean western historical Christian romance that had an emphasis on forgiveness and repentance. It was very well written and had lots of tension throughout the story.
This was a clean western historical Christian romance that had an emphasis on forgiveness and repentance. It was very well written and had lots of tension throughout the story.
September 8, 2024
Sandi Rebert is a new to me author. As a retired high school American Literature teacher, I enjoyed Robert's descriptive writing style with well developed characters, twist and turn plot, a touch of mystery and a believable resolution. A page turning historical novella with a Wyoming setting.
April 8, 2023
Christian fiction at its best! Easy reading with exciting plot, including a few surprise twists. Clear example of Christ’s love and forgiveness. Can’t wait to read the sequel.
August 11, 2023
Loved this book. Good characterisation and a strong story line. Highly recommend!
February 19, 2024
Another page turner. You just want to keep reading to find out what happens. There is some sadness, but definitely a lot of forgiveness. Really makes you think if you could do the same in his shoes.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews