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Sins of the Mother
From the bestselling author of The Personal Librarian comes a story of a mother whose sins of her past may have finally caught up with her—and her daughter.
Have the sins of the mother come upon the daughter?
Jasmine Larson Bush is finally living a drama-free life. She’s left her lying, cheating, stealing stripper days behind and is standing by her husband’s side as the first lady of one of the largest churches in New York City. The Bushes have been blessed with the best of everything—including two lovely children.
But just when Jasmine has committed her life completely to God, her daughter Jacqueline is kidnapped from a mall the day after Thanksgiving. The police and the church community join in the frantic search to find the four-year-old. As the days pass without any sign of her daughter, Jasmine begins to crack under the strain and turns to Brian Lewis, Jacqueline’s biological father, for solace.
Has Jasmine’s past finally caught up to her? Will her daughter be found or will Jasmine pay the ultimate price?
Have the sins of the mother come upon the daughter?
Jasmine Larson Bush is finally living a drama-free life. She’s left her lying, cheating, stealing stripper days behind and is standing by her husband’s side as the first lady of one of the largest churches in New York City. The Bushes have been blessed with the best of everything—including two lovely children.
But just when Jasmine has committed her life completely to God, her daughter Jacqueline is kidnapped from a mall the day after Thanksgiving. The police and the church community join in the frantic search to find the four-year-old. As the days pass without any sign of her daughter, Jasmine begins to crack under the strain and turns to Brian Lewis, Jacqueline’s biological father, for solace.
Has Jasmine’s past finally caught up to her? Will her daughter be found or will Jasmine pay the ultimate price?
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
38 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Christopher Murray
48 books2,422 followersVictoria Christopher Murray is the author of nine Essence bestselling novels, including The Ex Files; Too Little, Too Late; and Lady Jasmine. Winner of the African American Literary Award for Fiction and Author of the Year (Female).
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 26, 2010
When asked to review this book I wasn't sure about it. I looked on Library Thing and Goodreads to see what others were saying. It wasn't the author that made me question this book, it was the genre. I try to shy away from christian fiction novels because it tends to be too preachy with these holier than thou plots.
In Sins of the Mother, Victoria Christopher Murray exceeded my expectations by maintaining a spiritual background without preaching any sermons. It had the tone of telling a friend the truth without saying, "I told you so." This is the first one of her novels that I've read and if the others are anything like this then I'm a fan.
After deciding that a drama filled life was too much, Jasmine Larson Bush finally has it together. She has a husband who just so happens to be the pastor of a large New York City church and has two beautiful children. All is good in the neighborhood until a fun day of shopping on Black Friday turns into a nightmare. One minute she is in the ladies room changing her toddler son and the next minute her four-year-old daughter Jacquie is missing. Jasmine, along with mall security and family friend Mae Frances look everywhere inside and outside the mall to no avail. Its official, Jacquie is missing and only God knows why.
Now many so-called Christians, as I like to say, Sunday Saints, will say that God is just punishing Jasmine for her past deeds. You didn't hear it from me but they say Jasmine used to strip down at the Player's Club and sleep with other people's men. I didn't see it so I'm just saying, okay.
But seriously, I really enjoyed the way that Murray was able to maintain a Christian theme without making the reader feel like they're in Sunday school. She also made it easy to pick up this book and read it without having to go back and read the other Jasmine tales first. I enjoy when authors are able to pull this off. I hate nothing more than having to put a book down and catch up on the last one.
Murray has a best-seller here and I am sure readers especially book clubs will enjoy this one. Aside, from just enjoying the book I hope that readers take heed to the seriousness of kidnapping and know that any family is at risk and we must pay special attention to our children and making sure we keep them safe. Also, look out for the special homage to E. Lynn Harris. That was so sweet of her.
**This book was provided by the publisher.**
**This is not the book based on the Lifetime movie, Sins of the Mother.**
www.notoriousspinkstalks.com
In Sins of the Mother, Victoria Christopher Murray exceeded my expectations by maintaining a spiritual background without preaching any sermons. It had the tone of telling a friend the truth without saying, "I told you so." This is the first one of her novels that I've read and if the others are anything like this then I'm a fan.
After deciding that a drama filled life was too much, Jasmine Larson Bush finally has it together. She has a husband who just so happens to be the pastor of a large New York City church and has two beautiful children. All is good in the neighborhood until a fun day of shopping on Black Friday turns into a nightmare. One minute she is in the ladies room changing her toddler son and the next minute her four-year-old daughter Jacquie is missing. Jasmine, along with mall security and family friend Mae Frances look everywhere inside and outside the mall to no avail. Its official, Jacquie is missing and only God knows why.
Now many so-called Christians, as I like to say, Sunday Saints, will say that God is just punishing Jasmine for her past deeds. You didn't hear it from me but they say Jasmine used to strip down at the Player's Club and sleep with other people's men. I didn't see it so I'm just saying, okay.
But seriously, I really enjoyed the way that Murray was able to maintain a Christian theme without making the reader feel like they're in Sunday school. She also made it easy to pick up this book and read it without having to go back and read the other Jasmine tales first. I enjoy when authors are able to pull this off. I hate nothing more than having to put a book down and catch up on the last one.
Murray has a best-seller here and I am sure readers especially book clubs will enjoy this one. Aside, from just enjoying the book I hope that readers take heed to the seriousness of kidnapping and know that any family is at risk and we must pay special attention to our children and making sure we keep them safe. Also, look out for the special homage to E. Lynn Harris. That was so sweet of her.
**This book was provided by the publisher.**
**This is not the book based on the Lifetime movie, Sins of the Mother.**
www.notoriousspinkstalks.com
August 15, 2010
Jasmine’s Sinful Desires
I give a standing applause to the author Victoria Christopher Murray for making a sequel to the number one novel of the year! I absolutely loved every page of this novel!
The novel, “Sins of the Mother,” is a sequel that brings back the best character ever…Jasmine Larson Bush! Jasmine has been a very evil-hearted, cruel, and conniving person in the past and it seems to be catching up with her. Jasmine is now a mother of two kids and discovers that her oldest child, Jacquie, has been abducted at the mall which releases all chaos. Jasmine is now regretting all evil things she did in her past. She is then reunited with Jacquie’s biological father, Brian, to help find their daughter. Jasmine seems to develop feelings during the process. Will Jasmine find her daughter or has the past finally caught up with her?
If you are a TRUE reader…this novel is definitely highly recommended. “Sins of the Mother” justifies the awesome penmanship of a very talented and artistic writer that keeps readers such as myself thirsty for more! In fact, this is the best drama-filled novel read this year! Keep up the good work!
Reviewed by: Tekisha
I give a standing applause to the author Victoria Christopher Murray for making a sequel to the number one novel of the year! I absolutely loved every page of this novel!
The novel, “Sins of the Mother,” is a sequel that brings back the best character ever…Jasmine Larson Bush! Jasmine has been a very evil-hearted, cruel, and conniving person in the past and it seems to be catching up with her. Jasmine is now a mother of two kids and discovers that her oldest child, Jacquie, has been abducted at the mall which releases all chaos. Jasmine is now regretting all evil things she did in her past. She is then reunited with Jacquie’s biological father, Brian, to help find their daughter. Jasmine seems to develop feelings during the process. Will Jasmine find her daughter or has the past finally caught up with her?
If you are a TRUE reader…this novel is definitely highly recommended. “Sins of the Mother” justifies the awesome penmanship of a very talented and artistic writer that keeps readers such as myself thirsty for more! In fact, this is the best drama-filled novel read this year! Keep up the good work!
Reviewed by: Tekisha
March 13, 2014
Another great book. My heart went out to Jasmine in this one. After the kidnapping of Jasmine's daughter and the frantic search to find her. Jasmine has to turn to Brian her duaghter's father for help. Will Jasmine's feeling toward Brain come back.
If you are looking for a great series to read this series this it. You will not be disappointed.
If you are looking for a great series to read this series this it. You will not be disappointed.
January 13, 2011
I REALLY didn't like the ending, I think as a mother I'm more sensitive to violence against children; but that really turned me off! I think the "Jasmine" train has been ridden long enough, even if it doesn't end here I'm pulling the cord and exiting...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2016
As a VCM fan, this book did not disappoint!
From the very first chapter the story of how this family stayed prayerful through such a difficult time inspired me.
From the very first chapter the story of how this family stayed prayerful through such a difficult time inspired me.
December 8, 2018
Great read!
May 26, 2010
Although the storyline largely revolves around a pastor’s wife this is definitely not “Christian” fiction, even with a few scriptures and church references thrown in here and there.
On the back of the book, this title is categorized simply as “fiction”, so don’t be mislead if you pick this up thinking it is going to be a nice, sweet redemptive story.
This is the first book I have read by this author, so I wasn’t familiar with the main character, Jasmine, who the author has written other books about. This title is the 5th book in the “Jasmine” saga. Plenty of references to Jasmine’s sordid past are made in this story, so it doesn’t take long for the reader to catch on that Jasmine hasn’t always been a pastor’s wife. Jasmine is a former stripper, home wrecker and bed-hopper, who has supposedly left her lying, cheating ways behind and is married to the pastor of one of the most prominent churches in New York City.
I found myself feeling sorry most of the time for Hosea, Jasmine’s husband. When their 4 year old daughter mysteriously disappears at the mall, Hosea is the one trying to hold his family together at the seams. He seems like a caring man in this story – standing strong, doing what he can to help find their daughter and trying to help his wife through her grief. Meanwhile, when the biological father of their daughter shows up (Brian), Jasmine can’t keep herself from thinking about her old flame. And then Brian’s ex-wife shows up (who he’s still in love with) and adds more tension to the mix.
This story has a lot of twists and turns and as I read it, it felt very much like a melodramatic soap-opera. It’s quite a job to keep up with all of the details of the relationships and love triangles. The book is heavy on dysfunction, glamor, bad drama and money if those subjects hold your interest and you’re not out for a deep, “meaty” read. There’s also some “light” sex scenes thrown in as well as mild language.
It’s definitely not something I would have personally chosen to read, had I not of made a commitment to review this book.
March 12, 2018
As always, VCM delivers a well-written story. I rated this book 3 stars because (1) I felt it dragged in places and (2) I felt there were opportunities to expand on other character's storylines within the context of the main story. For ex., we know Nama was working some angles and it would have been nice to experience some of those exchanges. That said, I understand why the author did delve too much. The book was a little over 400 pages and sometimes these stories have to be streamlined to satisfy the masses :).
Jasmine, still an unlikeable character, seemed to take a backseat to her own crazy. Alexis is still struggling with what she believes God wants for her and what she wants for herself. Brian is still a little manipulative, but honestly, he does no more to snag Alexis than women do to men on the daily lol. Hosea and his father are still sensible. Tragedy softens the others.
VCM does a great job of making the characters believable. They all go through their own stuff and have a tough time digging themselves out. This is true to life for most. Although VCM ties up the loose ends of whatever scenario the characters find themselves in, she does not do the same with their internal struggles. Again... this is true to life. Just because we come out of a situation doesn't mean we are healed or even better.
In summary, VCM delivers. I've already started the next- Sinners and Saints.
Jasmine, still an unlikeable character, seemed to take a backseat to her own crazy. Alexis is still struggling with what she believes God wants for her and what she wants for herself. Brian is still a little manipulative, but honestly, he does no more to snag Alexis than women do to men on the daily lol. Hosea and his father are still sensible. Tragedy softens the others.
VCM does a great job of making the characters believable. They all go through their own stuff and have a tough time digging themselves out. This is true to life for most. Although VCM ties up the loose ends of whatever scenario the characters find themselves in, she does not do the same with their internal struggles. Again... this is true to life. Just because we come out of a situation doesn't mean we are healed or even better.
In summary, VCM delivers. I've already started the next- Sinners and Saints.
September 4, 2011
This was such an emotional book I was literally in tears by the time it ended. It was very heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. I wont lie Jasmine was about to get on my last nerve with that bull she was taking Hosea through and she didnt have to be so nasty toward May Frances but it ended with a BANG and i gotta give it FIVE STARS!!
September 28, 2017
Note: Currently half way through the CD box set. So far this is entertaining. Will be updating my review soon. P.S. A borrow from the library and a very good one, indeed. As usually Ms. Jasmine is causing drama throughout this story and asking "why me, God?" I like this character's growth through the series. I gave Sins of the Mother four ****.
February 8, 2013
Didn't really like the main character. Way too much of a drama queen. The beginning was good, the end was ok. But, I skipped from disc 6 to 10 (of 11), and can't say I missed anything. There was WAY too much boring and unnecessary info in the middle.
May 2, 2018
Brings out so much of reality. I never expected to see, of all characters, First Lady Jasmine have to experience such a horrible tragedy. This story truly showed how anything can happen to anybody. Everyone is human. Appreciate friends and love ones.
February 21, 2012
Glad to see Jasmine step and become a wonderful mother and wife a first for me in the Jasmine series rooted for her. And praise for Victoria again for a job well done.
September 23, 2016
Jasmine Bush, Hosea Bush, Hosea Bush, Sr. and Mae Frances, always make for a great read. Loves this family and all the drama that comes with them!
September 4, 2017
In short, this book went from an interesting premise to one that continually got to be a bore to read, that I quickly flipped to the end just to find out what happened so I could get it over with.
I've read one or two of Ms. Murray's books from the Jasmine series -- specifically, the first, which while I found it full of characters that couldn't seem to do anything but make choices that didn't make a lot of sense, I found it fun to go on the ride with. So, it wasn't too difficult to pick this one up and look for the same. This book on the other hand tries to mix elements of romance, religious fiction, mystery, and courtroom thriller all into one, and it just fell really flat for me. The beginning of the book sets up an interesting premise of a kidnapped child, but as I mentioned before, just turned into a mess of a cyclical and sloppily written plot, that badly sags in the middle with far too many details that don't move the story forward. The idea I think, is to get new readers interested in characters who may have been better fleshed out in previous books, but it was wholly unnecessary here.
While I'd recommend the first few books in the series, I certainly wouldn't recommend this one.
I've read one or two of Ms. Murray's books from the Jasmine series -- specifically, the first, which while I found it full of characters that couldn't seem to do anything but make choices that didn't make a lot of sense, I found it fun to go on the ride with. So, it wasn't too difficult to pick this one up and look for the same. This book on the other hand tries to mix elements of romance, religious fiction, mystery, and courtroom thriller all into one, and it just fell really flat for me. The beginning of the book sets up an interesting premise of a kidnapped child, but as I mentioned before, just turned into a mess of a cyclical and sloppily written plot, that badly sags in the middle with far too many details that don't move the story forward. The idea I think, is to get new readers interested in characters who may have been better fleshed out in previous books, but it was wholly unnecessary here.
While I'd recommend the first few books in the series, I certainly wouldn't recommend this one.
June 25, 2017
listened to this on audible. the narrator did a good job.
Storyline
pace falters in places, unnecessarily wordy and repetitive and it's easy to get distracted. it was unnecessarily drawn out with repetitive inner monologues. overall a decent listen
random thoughts-
even through this horrible situation jasmine was still an unlikeable character and hosea still garnered your sympathies as did others who were a part of the bush family. I was left wondering again if Jasmine loves Hosea or just loves being a first lady.
the alexis/brian arc was uninteresting-alexis' character is still unlikeable. maybe if her character took accountability for the outcome of her situation then maybe, but I doubt it. the character was created as a judgemental, close minded person, ridiculous and remained that way with no growth thus far. What was the draw to her for Brian? Did he just enjoy chasing a woman? There relationship didn't make sense in this book for me.
alexis, jasmine and kyla remind me of a description i saw on social media called the petty olympics.
Storyline
pace falters in places, unnecessarily wordy and repetitive and it's easy to get distracted. it was unnecessarily drawn out with repetitive inner monologues. overall a decent listen
random thoughts-
even through this horrible situation jasmine was still an unlikeable character and hosea still garnered your sympathies as did others who were a part of the bush family. I was left wondering again if Jasmine loves Hosea or just loves being a first lady.
the alexis/brian arc was uninteresting-alexis' character is still unlikeable. maybe if her character took accountability for the outcome of her situation then maybe, but I doubt it. the character was created as a judgemental, close minded person, ridiculous and remained that way with no growth thus far. What was the draw to her for Brian? Did he just enjoy chasing a woman? There relationship didn't make sense in this book for me.
alexis, jasmine and kyla remind me of a description i saw on social media called the petty olympics.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2018
My mom read this and gave it to me afterwards, and she always puts me on to good books. I gotta say it wasn't exactly what i expected, I expected way more drama and twists and turns based on the synopsis. Instead, it was rather tame and uneventful until the very end. I was dissapointed that the book didn't go into Jasmine's past at all, it's called sins of the mother but all we get is that she lied, cheated, and stripped. There also wasn't any explanation of how she turned her life around. The last thing that threw me off was how it kept going from the kidnapping to Brian and Alexis, and the Brian and Alexis saga really didn't have much to do with the main plot. Outside from that, the message was great, and that author really does a great job making you feel like you were right in the midst of the story
June 30, 2019
Very interesting book and I hated to put it down to go to sleep last night, but I was determined to finish it today.
If the rest of your novels are like the ones I already read, I can't wait to get to them.
The book started off as they were in the mall she had to go to the restroom to change her son and she left her four year old daughter with her friend Mae Francis and when she came out the little girl was gone. I felt her pain that's why we all need to keep our focus on your children because it only takes a second for someone to take that child and we have so much of it going on today.
As far as Pastor Hosea Bush I believe any parent would have did the same thing.
"Hold On To God's Hands"
If the rest of your novels are like the ones I already read, I can't wait to get to them.
The book started off as they were in the mall she had to go to the restroom to change her son and she left her four year old daughter with her friend Mae Francis and when she came out the little girl was gone. I felt her pain that's why we all need to keep our focus on your children because it only takes a second for someone to take that child and we have so much of it going on today.
As far as Pastor Hosea Bush I believe any parent would have did the same thing.
"Hold On To God's Hands"
August 18, 2025
Even though she is now a preacher's wife, Jasmine Bush definitely has some skeletons in her closet. Things come to a head when one day her daughter Jacqueline is kidnapped the day after Thanksgiving.
Is the daughter now paying for the sins of the mother?
Boy I could not fathom being in a situation like this!!!!! Read this to go on a wild ride as Jasmine and her family go through the chaotic situation to see if the Bush family will get Jacqueline back.
This engaging, faith-based novel provides drama and emotional pull and is a powerful read for anyone who enjoys books centered around family and faith.
Is the daughter now paying for the sins of the mother?
Boy I could not fathom being in a situation like this!!!!! Read this to go on a wild ride as Jasmine and her family go through the chaotic situation to see if the Bush family will get Jacqueline back.
This engaging, faith-based novel provides drama and emotional pull and is a powerful read for anyone who enjoys books centered around family and faith.
August 19, 2017
With each book of this series, I'm finding myself liking Hosea more & more. His love for God & his family was exhibited beautifully. Although I thought Jasmine was changing her wicked ways, some of her treatment towards others proved she is still a huge work in progress. I felt so bad for Jacqueline. Good continuation of the series. Now to start on Rachel....
February 12, 2025
This Jasmine series has been degeneracy on steroids but THIS book was too much. Bad things happening are all good things and then you want them to get worse. If Black women like this exist, I thank goodness I've never known one. Degenerate, LOUD, ignorant and making a mockery of church. No stereotypes here. Keep up the good work. This author has serious issues.
February 12, 2022
I couldn’t put this book down! Church folks, sins and secrets!
October 19, 2024
I had to come back to see what’s going on with Jasmine. The book seemed to drag at times ( it could’ve been a lot shorter) however it was a solid read.
January 28, 2025
Ms. Murray continues to keep me entertained with Jasmine's endless drama.
June 11, 2010
I'm not sure where to start with this book review, Sins of the Mother is a powerful book that provokes a lot of feelings through the book. The main thing I had a hard time with was I didn't like Jasmine, but I really liked the book. I know you might wonder - how do you like a book and not like one of the main characters? Well, the truth is even though I did not like or truly approve of Jasmine, there were things about her I could relate to. I can only imagine how it feels to have a child go missing and Jasmine's motherly love shows through even when other moral issues rise up. I do feel relieved at the end to read the interview questions with the author, Victoria Christopher Murray and find that she doesn't really like the character, Jasmine either.
This is not Ms. Murray's first book with Jasmine - she is featured in several earlier books. I can see where reading the earlier books would help the reader understand Jasmine and her past more, I don't feel the books are necessary for you to be able to read Sins of the Mother. I have checked out the first book, Temptation since I started reading Sins of the Mother. I may not like Jasmine but I am intrigued by her and after reading Sins of the Mother, I know I like Victoria Christopher Murray's writing. She tells a story well and will keep you engrossed from the first page to the last. I also like how real her characters feel. They are everyday people (even the TV preacher, Hosea, Jasmine's husband) fighting everyday temptations and feelings.
I liked the side-story of Alexis and Brian, it meshed with the main story very well. These characters were also in an earlier book and Brian is Jaqueline's father. They played an interesting role and I enjoyed watching their interplay to take away from the tension of what was going on in New York with the missing daughter.
If you are expecting Christian fiction, you will get it in a way, but I don't consider this to be straight Christian fiction. This is the newer Christian fiction, it's more mainstream. There is a message and it comes through loud and clear, but the story line and some of the situation are a little rawer than straight Christian fiction. There is no bad language, but there are sexual situations that occur, they are not detailed, but they are there - so be warned if that is something that will offend you. It fits with the story and doesn't seem gratuitous.
Overall, I thought this was a very good book. I went through the gamut of emotions with this one and could not stop turning the pages. I am impressed with my first outing with Victoria Christopher Murray. Take a chance with this one, I don't think you will be disappointed.
My Rating: 4.5/5.0
This is not Ms. Murray's first book with Jasmine - she is featured in several earlier books. I can see where reading the earlier books would help the reader understand Jasmine and her past more, I don't feel the books are necessary for you to be able to read Sins of the Mother. I have checked out the first book, Temptation since I started reading Sins of the Mother. I may not like Jasmine but I am intrigued by her and after reading Sins of the Mother, I know I like Victoria Christopher Murray's writing. She tells a story well and will keep you engrossed from the first page to the last. I also like how real her characters feel. They are everyday people (even the TV preacher, Hosea, Jasmine's husband) fighting everyday temptations and feelings.
I liked the side-story of Alexis and Brian, it meshed with the main story very well. These characters were also in an earlier book and Brian is Jaqueline's father. They played an interesting role and I enjoyed watching their interplay to take away from the tension of what was going on in New York with the missing daughter.
If you are expecting Christian fiction, you will get it in a way, but I don't consider this to be straight Christian fiction. This is the newer Christian fiction, it's more mainstream. There is a message and it comes through loud and clear, but the story line and some of the situation are a little rawer than straight Christian fiction. There is no bad language, but there are sexual situations that occur, they are not detailed, but they are there - so be warned if that is something that will offend you. It fits with the story and doesn't seem gratuitous.
Overall, I thought this was a very good book. I went through the gamut of emotions with this one and could not stop turning the pages. I am impressed with my first outing with Victoria Christopher Murray. Take a chance with this one, I don't think you will be disappointed.
My Rating: 4.5/5.0
March 13, 2011
as lady jasmine books go i would have to say that this one was my favorite. i mean her regular foolery is quite entertaining, but dealing with the kidnapping of her child really turned a reformed scandlous homewrecking hussy into a imperfect human being. if she was a real person i still wouldn't like her, but the ficitional character first lady jasmine larson cox bush is as three dimensional as pixar animation. i'm talking this chick seems human; a bit crass and irrational, somewhat selfish, often delluded, & imperfectly real.
the "christian/inspirational" element was sprinkled through out the story in a casual way. you never have the sensation of being in mother superior's office after sister mary alice catching you putting gum beneath the desk. you experience the trails and tribulations (for lack of a better cliche) of trying to be a good person in the midst of total chaos, tragedies, temptations, and struggle to develop a relationship with christ.
so the only qualm i had was the foreshadowing of hosea's gun handling activities. it seemed out of context, until it was acutally introduced to the plot. i was not feeling that. i think it flowed well. seems like the type of reaction a person under his particular brand of stress would experience. i just did not feel as emotionally involved with that story element as i was with everything else in the novel.
i'm not quite sure that a recovering sex addict would have played the cat and mouse with his beloved in the way brian did. i mean the blurb and beginning chapters play his struggle up; but when he gets thrust into the "burning furnace" it seems to not have an affect. he mentions it. i just don't think its really an issue for him. perhaps its the fact that someone else's sex addiction was not juxtaposed to his former bad habit. and i seriously doubt that not raising two children with your ex-wife, cheating on your sexond ex-wife with multiple women, fathering a child with her nemesis, and toying with her emotions has the real life consequences that it did in the story. i can appreciate that. i could be totally off base. fiction that's what its all about variance, creative license, vivid imaginations...
i'm really digging the jewels of "what pleased the heart wasn't always good for the soul and she wasn't going to let her heart drag her backward", "YOU'VE GOT TO REALIZE THAT PAIN IS NOT ALWAYS PUNISHMENT, AND SUFFERING IS NOT ALWAYS BECAUSE OF SIN." those were very poignant phrases....good read!
the "christian/inspirational" element was sprinkled through out the story in a casual way. you never have the sensation of being in mother superior's office after sister mary alice catching you putting gum beneath the desk. you experience the trails and tribulations (for lack of a better cliche) of trying to be a good person in the midst of total chaos, tragedies, temptations, and struggle to develop a relationship with christ.
so the only qualm i had was the foreshadowing of hosea's gun handling activities. it seemed out of context, until it was acutally introduced to the plot. i was not feeling that. i think it flowed well. seems like the type of reaction a person under his particular brand of stress would experience. i just did not feel as emotionally involved with that story element as i was with everything else in the novel.
i'm not quite sure that a recovering sex addict would have played the cat and mouse with his beloved in the way brian did. i mean the blurb and beginning chapters play his struggle up; but when he gets thrust into the "burning furnace" it seems to not have an affect. he mentions it. i just don't think its really an issue for him. perhaps its the fact that someone else's sex addiction was not juxtaposed to his former bad habit. and i seriously doubt that not raising two children with your ex-wife, cheating on your sexond ex-wife with multiple women, fathering a child with her nemesis, and toying with her emotions has the real life consequences that it did in the story. i can appreciate that. i could be totally off base. fiction that's what its all about variance, creative license, vivid imaginations...
i'm really digging the jewels of "what pleased the heart wasn't always good for the soul and she wasn't going to let her heart drag her backward", "YOU'VE GOT TO REALIZE THAT PAIN IS NOT ALWAYS PUNISHMENT, AND SUFFERING IS NOT ALWAYS BECAUSE OF SIN." those were very poignant phrases....good read!
January 26, 2013
I'm not sure where to start with this book review, Sins of the Mother is a powerful book that provokes a lot of feelings through the book. The main thing I had a hard time with was I didn't like Jasmine, but I really liked the book. I know you might wonder - how do you like a book and not like one of the main characters? Well, the truth is even though I did not like or truly approve of Jasmine, there were things about her I could relate to. I can only imagine how it feels to have a child go missing and Jasmine's motherly love shows through even when other moral issues rise up. I do feel relieved at the end to read the interview questions with the author, Victoria Christopher Murray and find that she doesn't really like the character, Jasmine either.
This is not Ms. Murray's first book with Jasmine - she is featured in several earlier books. I can see where reading the earlier books would help the reader understand Jasmine and her past more, I don't feel the books are necessary for you to be able to read Sins of the Mother. I have checked out the first book, Temptation since I started reading Sins of the Mother. I may not like Jasmine but I am intrigued by her and after reading Sins of the Mother, I know I like Victoria Christopher Murray's writing. She tells a story well and will keep you engrossed from the first page to the last. I also like how real her characters feel. They are everyday people (even the TV preacher, Hosea, Jasmine's husband) fighting everyday temptations and feelings.
I liked the side-story of Alexis and Brian, it meshed with the main story very well. These characters were also in an earlier book and Brian is Jaqueline's father. They played an interesting role and I enjoyed watching their interplay to take away from the tension of what was going on in New York with the missing daughter.
If you are expecting Christian fiction, you will get it in a way, but I don't consider this to be straight Christian fiction. This is the newer Christian fiction, it's more mainstream. There is a message and it comes through loud and clear, but the story line and some of the situation are a little rawer than straight Christian fiction. There is no bad language, but there are sexual situations that occur, they are not detailed, but they are there - so be warned if that is something that will offend you. It fits with the story and doesn't seem gratuitous.
Overall, I thought this was a very good book. I went through the gamut of emotions with this one and could not stop turning the pages. I am impressed with my first outing with Victoria Christopher Murray. Take a chance with this one, I don't think you will be disappointed.
This is not Ms. Murray's first book with Jasmine - she is featured in several earlier books. I can see where reading the earlier books would help the reader understand Jasmine and her past more, I don't feel the books are necessary for you to be able to read Sins of the Mother. I have checked out the first book, Temptation since I started reading Sins of the Mother. I may not like Jasmine but I am intrigued by her and after reading Sins of the Mother, I know I like Victoria Christopher Murray's writing. She tells a story well and will keep you engrossed from the first page to the last. I also like how real her characters feel. They are everyday people (even the TV preacher, Hosea, Jasmine's husband) fighting everyday temptations and feelings.
I liked the side-story of Alexis and Brian, it meshed with the main story very well. These characters were also in an earlier book and Brian is Jaqueline's father. They played an interesting role and I enjoyed watching their interplay to take away from the tension of what was going on in New York with the missing daughter.
If you are expecting Christian fiction, you will get it in a way, but I don't consider this to be straight Christian fiction. This is the newer Christian fiction, it's more mainstream. There is a message and it comes through loud and clear, but the story line and some of the situation are a little rawer than straight Christian fiction. There is no bad language, but there are sexual situations that occur, they are not detailed, but they are there - so be warned if that is something that will offend you. It fits with the story and doesn't seem gratuitous.
Overall, I thought this was a very good book. I went through the gamut of emotions with this one and could not stop turning the pages. I am impressed with my first outing with Victoria Christopher Murray. Take a chance with this one, I don't think you will be disappointed.
August 5, 2016
Jasmine Cox Larson Bush. As soon as I feel like she is doing right, honoring God and her husband, something happens to throw her right back on the wrong track. Just when I almost find myself rooting for her, she does something crazy. Then I'm right back to wanting to snatch her head off her shoulders!
Sins of the Mother picks up with Jasmine having given birth to Hosea's first biological child. Jackie is now four years old and the apple of her parents eyes. The family is blissful and happy. Until, a Christmas shopping trip the day after Thanksgiving turns their lovely little world upside down. Jackie is kidnapped from the brand new Harlem mall they are patronizing. The Bushes, the police, the FBI, and the church family are all in a frantic search to find her as the clock continues to tick. Even Mae Francis links back up with some of her old connects to track Jackie down.
With Jackie's disappearance comes the resurfacing of her birth father, Brian Lewis. Along with his ex-wife, Alexis. Jasmine, searching for sanity leans on Brian. And in the process, may end up hurting those closest to her. And Brian.
Jasmine never learns! And Hosea, bless his heart...he is just an amazing soul. A gift straight out of heaven.
This book touches on some serious subject matter (no spoilers!), and asks some difficult questions. Even forcing me to ask myself some questions. I didn't like Jasmine's treatment of Mae Francis towards the middle and end of the novel, but had to ask myself, if placed in the same situation, would I be able to handle the stressors any differently. This book also revisited Brian and Alexis' love story, which I was both surprised and glad about.
This novel, just like the others in the series, was well crafted and intricately woven to make me feel the story instead of just reading it. VCM never disappoints.
Sins of the Mother picks up with Jasmine having given birth to Hosea's first biological child. Jackie is now four years old and the apple of her parents eyes. The family is blissful and happy. Until, a Christmas shopping trip the day after Thanksgiving turns their lovely little world upside down. Jackie is kidnapped from the brand new Harlem mall they are patronizing. The Bushes, the police, the FBI, and the church family are all in a frantic search to find her as the clock continues to tick. Even Mae Francis links back up with some of her old connects to track Jackie down.
With Jackie's disappearance comes the resurfacing of her birth father, Brian Lewis. Along with his ex-wife, Alexis. Jasmine, searching for sanity leans on Brian. And in the process, may end up hurting those closest to her. And Brian.
Jasmine never learns! And Hosea, bless his heart...he is just an amazing soul. A gift straight out of heaven.
This book touches on some serious subject matter (no spoilers!), and asks some difficult questions. Even forcing me to ask myself some questions. I didn't like Jasmine's treatment of Mae Francis towards the middle and end of the novel, but had to ask myself, if placed in the same situation, would I be able to handle the stressors any differently. This book also revisited Brian and Alexis' love story, which I was both surprised and glad about.
This novel, just like the others in the series, was well crafted and intricately woven to make me feel the story instead of just reading it. VCM never disappoints.
January 23, 2016
I have mixed feelings about SINS OF THE MOTHER. Parts of the story were riveting, while others dragged on a bit too much - its only purpose seeming to showcase the bizarre back and forth feelings of the so-called heroine.
SINS OF THE MOTHER centers on Jasmine Bush. Jasmine has led a rather unscrupulous life as a stripper. But, her lying and conniving are a thing of the past now that she is the first lady of a very prominent church. When tragedy strikes and her four-year-old daughter, Jacqueline, is kidnapped, Jasmine's perfect world begins to fall apart. What follows is a bizarre sequence of events as Jasmine questions God, and finds herself once again attracted to the man whom fathered her daughter.
I had a hard time liking any of the main characters other than Hosea and his father. When challenged, Jasmine's faith seemed superficial as was her love for her husband. Brian, the ex-lover whom fathered Jacqueline, though at times came across as descent, but still had major character flaws in how he manipulated Alexis, the supposed love of his life. Alexis, portrayed as a strong Christian woman, had no backbone when it came to the seductions of her ex-husband, Brian.
All in all, SINS OF THE MOTHER made for compelling reading, but as far as I am concerned held no redeeming storyline. Now, I know we all have sin and Christians are not without rebellion and failure, but this story only seemed to glorify the character's sin natures instead of showing how they overcame them. SINS OF THE MOTHER had the bed-hopping, seductions, and gratuitous temptations, that I expect to see on the Lifetime Channel not showcased in a Christian novel.
Book provided for review purposes.
SINS OF THE MOTHER centers on Jasmine Bush. Jasmine has led a rather unscrupulous life as a stripper. But, her lying and conniving are a thing of the past now that she is the first lady of a very prominent church. When tragedy strikes and her four-year-old daughter, Jacqueline, is kidnapped, Jasmine's perfect world begins to fall apart. What follows is a bizarre sequence of events as Jasmine questions God, and finds herself once again attracted to the man whom fathered her daughter.
I had a hard time liking any of the main characters other than Hosea and his father. When challenged, Jasmine's faith seemed superficial as was her love for her husband. Brian, the ex-lover whom fathered Jacqueline, though at times came across as descent, but still had major character flaws in how he manipulated Alexis, the supposed love of his life. Alexis, portrayed as a strong Christian woman, had no backbone when it came to the seductions of her ex-husband, Brian.
All in all, SINS OF THE MOTHER made for compelling reading, but as far as I am concerned held no redeeming storyline. Now, I know we all have sin and Christians are not without rebellion and failure, but this story only seemed to glorify the character's sin natures instead of showing how they overcame them. SINS OF THE MOTHER had the bed-hopping, seductions, and gratuitous temptations, that I expect to see on the Lifetime Channel not showcased in a Christian novel.
Book provided for review purposes.
July 9, 2010
I actually give this book 3.5 stars.
What draws me most to Christian fiction is the cozy and comfortable feeling I get when I read it. I know I am going to find uplifting messages throughout, and there will always been a good and happy ending to the story.
"Sins of the Mother" wasn't like that for me. It was edgy, and at times really pushed the limit of being what I'd call Christian fiction. It dealt with everyday people in everyday situations, that has a sinful past and a present that didn't really leave that old life behind.
I struggled with the sex scenes. They were kept clean but still didn't seem right reading about clothes ripping off. Mind you, I do read secular fiction, but I really thought it pushed the line in a Christian fiction book. I won't be handing this one to my daughter to read. It's definitely an adult book with adult situations.
Although I had a problem with the sex and some of the lack of commitment that Jasmine had toward her husband, I found the storyline quite real and very captivating. The characters were also real and struggled with real problems and nothing was glossed over.
This was a very good read, but I would be more apt to call it straight fiction.
This book was provided by FIRST for my honest review. This was marketed as Christian fiction - hence my reason for calling it that. On the back of the book, the classification is fiction.
What draws me most to Christian fiction is the cozy and comfortable feeling I get when I read it. I know I am going to find uplifting messages throughout, and there will always been a good and happy ending to the story.
"Sins of the Mother" wasn't like that for me. It was edgy, and at times really pushed the limit of being what I'd call Christian fiction. It dealt with everyday people in everyday situations, that has a sinful past and a present that didn't really leave that old life behind.
I struggled with the sex scenes. They were kept clean but still didn't seem right reading about clothes ripping off. Mind you, I do read secular fiction, but I really thought it pushed the line in a Christian fiction book. I won't be handing this one to my daughter to read. It's definitely an adult book with adult situations.
Although I had a problem with the sex and some of the lack of commitment that Jasmine had toward her husband, I found the storyline quite real and very captivating. The characters were also real and struggled with real problems and nothing was glossed over.
This was a very good read, but I would be more apt to call it straight fiction.
This book was provided by FIRST for my honest review. This was marketed as Christian fiction - hence my reason for calling it that. On the back of the book, the classification is fiction.
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