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Legacy of Lies
What if everything you thought you knew about your family turned out to be a lie? Penelope Livingston has had an ache in her heart for twenty-five years--ever since that traumatic day she gave her baby up for adoption. Now she's trying to locate her daughter. Research uncovers a young woman named Claire who seems to be a perfect match. The two women believe it is Fate that they found each other, and they begin to forge a happy friendship. Unfortunately, only the baby's father, Larry O'Neill knows the truth--that he never allowed his daughter to be given up for adoption. He raised the baby himself, with the help of his babysitter, Sally, who quickly became his wife. Now how does he keep Penelope off his daughter Melody's trail, so that he can keep his family intact and himself out of jail?
322 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
18 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Larsen
43 books102 followersBeachy, heartwarming and inspirational, Laurie Larsen's love stories contain a bit of faith in addition to the Happily Ever After. Her beloved Pawleys Island Paradise series gained fans, not only because of the stories and unforgettable characters, but the "arrogantly shabby" real-life island setting.
A multi-award winning author, she's won the EPIC Award for Best Spiritual Romance, the Illumination Book Award for Inspirational Romance Fiction and the eLit Award for Religious Fiction.
Laurie began her writing career back when she was juggling a challenging day job in Information Technology Management. Bewildered as to how an English major who loved to read discovered herself in a highly technical career path, writing became her creative release. Because "all good things come to those that wait," her reward finally arrived: retiring from the day job, moving to the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry and writing novels full-time; at least, in between lathering on the sunscreen, walking the beach, and entertaining her feisty rescue pup, Weezer.
A member of Romance Writers of America for fifteen years, now, she's the President of an American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. She's lived her own Happily Ever After for over thirty years.
Want to stay in touch with Laurie?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlaurie...
Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/25728...
Newsletter: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/re...
Website: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lauri...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Laurie-Larsen/...?
A multi-award winning author, she's won the EPIC Award for Best Spiritual Romance, the Illumination Book Award for Inspirational Romance Fiction and the eLit Award for Religious Fiction.
Laurie began her writing career back when she was juggling a challenging day job in Information Technology Management. Bewildered as to how an English major who loved to read discovered herself in a highly technical career path, writing became her creative release. Because "all good things come to those that wait," her reward finally arrived: retiring from the day job, moving to the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry and writing novels full-time; at least, in between lathering on the sunscreen, walking the beach, and entertaining her feisty rescue pup, Weezer.
A member of Romance Writers of America for fifteen years, now, she's the President of an American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. She's lived her own Happily Ever After for over thirty years.
Want to stay in touch with Laurie?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlaurie...
Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/25728...
Newsletter: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/re...
Website: https://www.authorlaurielarsen.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lauri...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Laurie-Larsen/...?
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 13, 2014
What a phenomenal novel. I can’t stop thinking about this one! And I definitely couldn’t put it down.
Larsen makes you laugh at the all out realism of the situations the characters find themselves in. I found myself thinking ‘I’d so have done that’ and giggling over it more than once. This is one of those novels that subtly changes the way you think about certain rides while taking you on a sweet and sometimes spicy journey of a lifetime. Larsen is one of those rare authors who can bring the good kind of tears to your eyes while telling a story.
I found myself really feeling for the main character from the first chapter. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t feel sorry for her, rather I felt right alongside her. Her life wasn’t the easiest or smoothest but she made the best of it without living in an ongoing pity party. The rest of the cast was realistic and approachable as well. They also aren’t static characters.
Overall, this was a fantastic novel that I couldn’t put down. Larsen infuses it with both emotion and a subtle intensity that won’t let you go. This may have been my first foray into this author’s work, but it definitely will not be my last.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Larsen makes you laugh at the all out realism of the situations the characters find themselves in. I found myself thinking ‘I’d so have done that’ and giggling over it more than once. This is one of those novels that subtly changes the way you think about certain rides while taking you on a sweet and sometimes spicy journey of a lifetime. Larsen is one of those rare authors who can bring the good kind of tears to your eyes while telling a story.
I found myself really feeling for the main character from the first chapter. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t feel sorry for her, rather I felt right alongside her. Her life wasn’t the easiest or smoothest but she made the best of it without living in an ongoing pity party. The rest of the cast was realistic and approachable as well. They also aren’t static characters.
Overall, this was a fantastic novel that I couldn’t put down. Larsen infuses it with both emotion and a subtle intensity that won’t let you go. This may have been my first foray into this author’s work, but it definitely will not be my last.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2018
What a heartwarming story that will grab your heart. Well written with likable characters and an inspirational and entertaining story. Once you start reading this book, you'll find it hard to put down. A feel-good love story that will make your day. You'll fall in love with Regan and Josh. It's nice to read a clean romance and one that is faith-based. Our sad world needs more of these feel-good stories, love, forgiveness, and kindness. I was fortunate enough to read a reader copy and voluntarily chose to write a review.
August 9, 2016
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Preacher Man by Laurie Larsen is an adorable romance that shows us our plans are not always His plans. Regan is a homebody. Give her a book to review and she's happy as a clam. The last thing she wants is a guy in her life. Josh knows exactly what he wants, and he doesn't think Regan is it. As they get to know each other, they find it hard to deny their attraction. They are drawn to each other. Regan thinks she isn't good enough to be a preacher's wife. She's not even a Christian. Josh falls more and more every time he sees her, but struggles with her lack of belief. This story was a quick and entertaining read, and I enjoyed every minute of it. This is how God works sometimes, and to a non-Christian reader, I think it might spark their curiosity to learn more.
Preacher Man by Laurie Larsen was kindly provided to me by Reading Addiction Blog Tours for review. The opinions are my own.
October 22, 2012
This was one of the most heartwarming books I’ve read in a very long time. Josh is a single guy trying to find some kind of normality with the fact that he’d like to date and the fact that as a preacher, he’s a God fearing man. Regan isn’t either. However, she can’t seem to resist him and who could? Josh is easy, low maintenance, gorgeous and he drives a motorcycle!
Larsen twines unexpected plot twists just when you don’t see them coming. I was intrigued and quite literally hated when I had to put the book down. I looked forward to each time I get to Josh and Regan. Nicely done, Laurie!
A complete feel-good romance with twists throughout the end that kept me wanting more.
-R.T. Wolfe, Author of Black Creek Burning (Crimson Romance, 2012)
Larsen twines unexpected plot twists just when you don’t see them coming. I was intrigued and quite literally hated when I had to put the book down. I looked forward to each time I get to Josh and Regan. Nicely done, Laurie!
A complete feel-good romance with twists throughout the end that kept me wanting more.
-R.T. Wolfe, Author of Black Creek Burning (Crimson Romance, 2012)
September 3, 2017
STORY-LINE PREACHER MAN BY LAURIE LARSEN:
Regan Samuels and Josh Gregory have starring roles in awarding winning author Laurie Larsen's Preacher Man; a sweet clean inspirational romance, Regan's divorced after fifteen years of marriage, raising a hormonal teenager, and doing her best to build a new life for them from the scraps left of her former life. Befuddled by how it happened, her best friend Liz, talks her into participating in a charity date auction. Humiliation does not begin to describe how Regan felt as she awkwardly stood on the stage waiting for a bidder. Unfortunately, the only bidder pays $50.00 for a date with Regan.
Josh Gregory's the only bidder for the date with Regan. After arranging the details, Josh shows up on motorcycle of all things. At her age, Regan's far from ready to climb on this death machine. But, climb on she does. Josh and Regan hit it off; then he drops a bomb shell. He's a Christian and a Minister. Regan does not attend church nor feel close to God; oh, she believes God exist, but has not accepted him nor his care and love for her.
Two polar opposites attracted from the first date, Josh and Amber slowly advance. Josh is looking for a wife; a partner in life and his ministry. Regan's still dealing with the impact of the divorce, has many insecurities, and knows she is not worthy; she's just not suitable for a Minister. For she has secrets she's hiding which will greatly impact any relationship she and Josh form. But, God has plans for these two opposites; come and enjoy my review of Preacher Man, as God places his hand on two lives. My inspirational romance book reviews of Preacher Man follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Laurie Larsen created an intensely emotional book, as well as, filling the story-line with laughter. From the first page I was hooked as Larsen sent a frightened, insecure, and awkward Regan out on the auction stage. What a funny scene she created in the beginning of the story. The conversations Regan has with herself are hilarious as well as, heart breaking. At times I didn't know whether to laugh, cry, or do both at the same time.
Larsen's writing is vivid, crisp, fresh, and clear, as she leads us through this wonderful love story; a love story with many layers. She had no need of fluff or sex to full the pages; the story-line held me enthralled as I become involved in the characters lives. Larsen's characters are well-developed and full-bodied with pacing which never slowed.
With an original intriguing and believable plot, I found myself reading Preacher Man straight through. A story-line full of hurt, disappointment, guilt, and introspection by the characters, Laurie Larsen included sweet clean romance. The intrigue of Regan's secret's addictive. She held the secret close to her chest and did not reveal until the last possible moment. Larsen's scenes transitions smoothly from scene to scene and her writing flowed well.
Laurie Larsen created a character truly in need of God's love, grace, and forgiveness, in Roger, the ex-husband. He's opinionated, belittling, selfish, obnoxious, and a bully. His belittlement and bullying of Regan's heart wrenching. No wonder the son, Luke, had coping issues with their divorce and his present life situation.
I felt so sorry for Regan. Seeing the light bulb come on when her friend, worldly Liz, imparted her words of wisdom, amazed and awed me; Josh had tried to tell her the same thing. Regan, with all her insecurities, guilt, and haunted past is a wonderful character. I could relate to Regan's struggles with her teenage son; she questioned her decisions and delicately walked the parent tightrope. I loved watching Regan mature; Larsen led her gracefully to full realization with Luke, Josh and God.
I especially loved Josh's character. A good man dedicated to God, and serving through his ministry. Through Josh, Laurie Larsen skillfully explained even Christians have problems, hurts, and insecurities. She demonstrates belief in God, acceptance, and forgiveness, does not free us from the trials and troubles we will face. However, it gives us the resources to face them with grace and make good choices; knowing our Heavenly Father is an ever-present helper in times of trouble. This message's implied throughout the story.
I do not want you to think this is a pushy, preachy book, with nothing but scripture and advice, as it is not. Larsen with great skill weaved the messages of forgiveness, God's grace, and free choice, into this wonderful uplifting story. The scenes in the last 4 chapters are awesome, but please, do not cheat and read the ending first; it will spoil the story for you. I found Preacher Man an awesome inspiring inspirational romance which I highly recommend. I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.
I know this is a long review, but I could not seem to stop; there's so much I wanted to say; without spoiling the story for you. Inspirational romance book reviews drive the literary and sales world, I hope my review of Preacher Man inspires you to buy this book. It's a great read for Christian and non-Christian alike; Epic award-winner of the 2010 Best Spiritual Romance.
PREACHER MAN RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4.5
FINALLY PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with honest inspirational romance book reviews. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, no one influences my voluntary inspirational romance book reviews.
Regan Samuels and Josh Gregory have starring roles in awarding winning author Laurie Larsen's Preacher Man; a sweet clean inspirational romance, Regan's divorced after fifteen years of marriage, raising a hormonal teenager, and doing her best to build a new life for them from the scraps left of her former life. Befuddled by how it happened, her best friend Liz, talks her into participating in a charity date auction. Humiliation does not begin to describe how Regan felt as she awkwardly stood on the stage waiting for a bidder. Unfortunately, the only bidder pays $50.00 for a date with Regan.
Josh Gregory's the only bidder for the date with Regan. After arranging the details, Josh shows up on motorcycle of all things. At her age, Regan's far from ready to climb on this death machine. But, climb on she does. Josh and Regan hit it off; then he drops a bomb shell. He's a Christian and a Minister. Regan does not attend church nor feel close to God; oh, she believes God exist, but has not accepted him nor his care and love for her.
Two polar opposites attracted from the first date, Josh and Amber slowly advance. Josh is looking for a wife; a partner in life and his ministry. Regan's still dealing with the impact of the divorce, has many insecurities, and knows she is not worthy; she's just not suitable for a Minister. For she has secrets she's hiding which will greatly impact any relationship she and Josh form. But, God has plans for these two opposites; come and enjoy my review of Preacher Man, as God places his hand on two lives. My inspirational romance book reviews of Preacher Man follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Laurie Larsen created an intensely emotional book, as well as, filling the story-line with laughter. From the first page I was hooked as Larsen sent a frightened, insecure, and awkward Regan out on the auction stage. What a funny scene she created in the beginning of the story. The conversations Regan has with herself are hilarious as well as, heart breaking. At times I didn't know whether to laugh, cry, or do both at the same time.
Larsen's writing is vivid, crisp, fresh, and clear, as she leads us through this wonderful love story; a love story with many layers. She had no need of fluff or sex to full the pages; the story-line held me enthralled as I become involved in the characters lives. Larsen's characters are well-developed and full-bodied with pacing which never slowed.
With an original intriguing and believable plot, I found myself reading Preacher Man straight through. A story-line full of hurt, disappointment, guilt, and introspection by the characters, Laurie Larsen included sweet clean romance. The intrigue of Regan's secret's addictive. She held the secret close to her chest and did not reveal until the last possible moment. Larsen's scenes transitions smoothly from scene to scene and her writing flowed well.
Laurie Larsen created a character truly in need of God's love, grace, and forgiveness, in Roger, the ex-husband. He's opinionated, belittling, selfish, obnoxious, and a bully. His belittlement and bullying of Regan's heart wrenching. No wonder the son, Luke, had coping issues with their divorce and his present life situation.
I felt so sorry for Regan. Seeing the light bulb come on when her friend, worldly Liz, imparted her words of wisdom, amazed and awed me; Josh had tried to tell her the same thing. Regan, with all her insecurities, guilt, and haunted past is a wonderful character. I could relate to Regan's struggles with her teenage son; she questioned her decisions and delicately walked the parent tightrope. I loved watching Regan mature; Larsen led her gracefully to full realization with Luke, Josh and God.
I especially loved Josh's character. A good man dedicated to God, and serving through his ministry. Through Josh, Laurie Larsen skillfully explained even Christians have problems, hurts, and insecurities. She demonstrates belief in God, acceptance, and forgiveness, does not free us from the trials and troubles we will face. However, it gives us the resources to face them with grace and make good choices; knowing our Heavenly Father is an ever-present helper in times of trouble. This message's implied throughout the story.
I do not want you to think this is a pushy, preachy book, with nothing but scripture and advice, as it is not. Larsen with great skill weaved the messages of forgiveness, God's grace, and free choice, into this wonderful uplifting story. The scenes in the last 4 chapters are awesome, but please, do not cheat and read the ending first; it will spoil the story for you. I found Preacher Man an awesome inspiring inspirational romance which I highly recommend. I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.
I know this is a long review, but I could not seem to stop; there's so much I wanted to say; without spoiling the story for you. Inspirational romance book reviews drive the literary and sales world, I hope my review of Preacher Man inspires you to buy this book. It's a great read for Christian and non-Christian alike; Epic award-winner of the 2010 Best Spiritual Romance.
PREACHER MAN RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4.5
FINALLY PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with honest inspirational romance book reviews. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, no one influences my voluntary inspirational romance book reviews.
May 14, 2017
Laurie's inspiring words flow across the pages as she documents Regan's journey into God's loving arms, giving her salvation and forgiveness.
What impressed me the most was her testimony at the Youth Rally.
Imagine being a reviewer for a newspaper and being paid to read.
This book is recommended for readers of Christian romances.
What impressed me the most was her testimony at the Youth Rally.
Imagine being a reviewer for a newspaper and being paid to read.
This book is recommended for readers of Christian romances.
January 30, 2012
Laurie's writing style is true and present in all of her novels. I have enjoyed every one of her releases. She's so talented that she can cross genres, yet still retain her unique voice! Way to go Laurie, Preacher Man is a fun and enjoyable read.
February 8, 2021
This is a beautiful book. I enjoyed reading it thoroughly. It is a book primarily about forgiveness. It is not only about forgiveness of others; but also forgiveness of oneself. I thought chapter 31 through the end of book was very moving; especially chapter 31.
One of my favorite statements in the book is, “But God is a gentleman. He doesn’t force his way, uninvited, into our day-to-day lives. He waits until we’re ready for Him.”
I thought the characters were very well developed. I like the leading characters, Regan Samuels and Josh Gregory. Also Regan’s son, Luke is important to the telling of this story. I also enjoyed the pace of the story.
The secret that Regan was holding onto did not turnout to be what I thought it was going to be. And I thought the way that was handled by the Author made the story even more interesting.
One of my favorite statements in the book is, “But God is a gentleman. He doesn’t force his way, uninvited, into our day-to-day lives. He waits until we’re ready for Him.”
I thought the characters were very well developed. I like the leading characters, Regan Samuels and Josh Gregory. Also Regan’s son, Luke is important to the telling of this story. I also enjoyed the pace of the story.
The secret that Regan was holding onto did not turnout to be what I thought it was going to be. And I thought the way that was handled by the Author made the story even more interesting.
November 5, 2018
I received this courtesy copy of Preacher Man from the author. I just recently discovered Laurie Larsen. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I stayed up way too late because I was so engrossed in Josh and Regan. This story is reality. It could happen anywhere to anyone. It's a love story but it's also so much more. It's a story of hope and forgiveness. It deals with divorce and single parenthood. It involves mystery and redemption. The author writes the characters in such a way that you feel immediately connected and invested in their story. They might be your friends if they were real. The trials, self doubt and agonizing retrospection make them even more human. I loved this book and look forward to reading many more of Laurie Larsen's books
June 14, 2018
Truly inspirational Regan is recently divorced and raising her son without much help from the father. At a charity auction where she is part of a single auction she meets Josh. On their date they find out they really like each other. The problem is he is a minister and she has never really given God much thought. Through several dates, Much thought, and some tragedy, Regan finds her way to God and really starts letting him work in her life. This book fills you with hope and you realize that God has plans for all our lives if we will just let him have his way
July 26, 2019
Preacher Man is a beautifully written, inspirational story about Josh and Regan. Josh is a minister and wins the winning bid, at a charity auction, for a date with Regan. Regan figures it’s a one-time date, but Josh really likes her. The more she thinks about it, the more she likes the idea of dating Josh. Regan has a secret that ultimately makes her calls things off with Josh. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say that you will enjoy this inspiring story.
June 4, 2017
This was a good book. Obviously with a minister as one of the characters, there is a lot of talk of God in the story. It's about self-doubt, and a path of enlightenment. Regan is not religious at all, she really doesn't know anything about God. She meets Josh who is a youth minister. It's about her journey to God and healing.
June 30, 2018
My first book by Laurie, and I hope To read all! Loved this story of redemption, forgiveness, hope, and what relationship with God can be. Luke, the teen son, helps all to the point of resolution and a hope for the future. Jake's character is what I hoped it would be. The cover almost turned me away. Glad I took a chance and read this book.
November 22, 2018
A great story on second chances.
I love this story because it touched on something that l could identify. Do we expect dating to be different for a pastor? It is something to think about. This book truly clarifies how this could be a problem and how it should not be. A great read.
I love this story because it touched on something that l could identify. Do we expect dating to be different for a pastor? It is something to think about. This book truly clarifies how this could be a problem and how it should not be. A great read.
January 16, 2019
Great Read!
In short what I enjoyed most about this book was that it was real. It shows the struggles of people with faith and those seeking faith. It underscores that being perfect isn’t a requirement to have a relationship with God, in fact if that was the case none of us would be worthy. Looking forward to reading more of Laurie’s books
In short what I enjoyed most about this book was that it was real. It shows the struggles of people with faith and those seeking faith. It underscores that being perfect isn’t a requirement to have a relationship with God, in fact if that was the case none of us would be worthy. Looking forward to reading more of Laurie’s books
July 18, 2019
I enjoyed this sweet Christian romance. The thought of dating a preacher would be daunting to most folks so I could relate to that with Regan. But the author showed plainly that preachers are normal people at their core.
February 1, 2020
A story filled with faith, hope and inspiration. Life has changed for Regan and her son. When she meets a preacher through unique circumstances, her life will change again. Sweet story. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
October 18, 2020
What an awesome book!
I began this book and from the first page, I knew that it had a writing style that would hold my attention.
This book also has a message that I think all of us should think about. I know I will be.
I began this book and from the first page, I knew that it had a writing style that would hold my attention.
This book also has a message that I think all of us should think about. I know I will be.
June 20, 2018
I received this book for free and I'm freely giving an honest review ! Loved the song and the story . Wendi hope to read more of Laurie Larsen's stories .
July 6, 2020
It’s about finding real forgiveness thru Gods love. It’s a very powerful book! Very different from most I’ve read. I loved the experience! Great job by this author
December 13, 2020
Regan Samuels is a newly divorced, single mother struggling to get back on her feet and make a new life for herself and her teenaged son Luke. When her friend convinces her to take part in a charity auction, Singles for Sale, her self-esteem takes another hit as she attracts the attention of only one bidder. Convinced he only bid because he felt sorry for her, she still agrees to the date, never expecting it to change her life.
Josh Gregory is a pastor, wholly dedicated to his faith and looking for the right woman to share his life. But Regan's lack of religion convinces her that she's not the one, and despite how well everything else seems to be going for them, she lets him go. After all, she doesn't want to be another mistake for another man she can't make happy.
But Josh knows there's something special between them, and Regan finds herself back in his sights, considering taking that leap again. Preacher Man is the heartwarming story of a man with all the faith in the world, and a woman who's lost faith in even herself.
I have a tough time with Christian books, since all too often they're preachy, with characters whose minuscule flaws are easily overcome, and whose choices are always right. But lately, I seem to be having some good luck, and Preacher Man is one of the rare few books that tells a story about realistic, imperfect, struggling people existing far outside the perfectly charmed church world.
Regan's situation is all too common, deserted by a cheating husband, left for a younger woman, and stuck trying to provide some stability to an increasingly moody teenaged son. Her confidence has taken a beating, and even though she's spent her whole life building a home and a future, she's having to start over again, this time without a partner to lean on.
Josh is absolutely amazing. A motorcycle preacher, he's no holier than thou man with a collar. He's kind and genuine, and he sees something in Regan that she thinks she's lost. His faith keeps him in line as she pulls herself together and takes a chance with him.
Religion aside (though admittedly, it's a big part of the story), Preacher Man could easily be the story of any of thousands of women, somewhat lost and trying to figure out what comes next. The difference here is that Regan finds a good man -- or rather a good man bid on her -- and his kindness and faith make her transition into the next chapter of her life so much better.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Josh Gregory is a pastor, wholly dedicated to his faith and looking for the right woman to share his life. But Regan's lack of religion convinces her that she's not the one, and despite how well everything else seems to be going for them, she lets him go. After all, she doesn't want to be another mistake for another man she can't make happy.
But Josh knows there's something special between them, and Regan finds herself back in his sights, considering taking that leap again. Preacher Man is the heartwarming story of a man with all the faith in the world, and a woman who's lost faith in even herself.
I have a tough time with Christian books, since all too often they're preachy, with characters whose minuscule flaws are easily overcome, and whose choices are always right. But lately, I seem to be having some good luck, and Preacher Man is one of the rare few books that tells a story about realistic, imperfect, struggling people existing far outside the perfectly charmed church world.
Regan's situation is all too common, deserted by a cheating husband, left for a younger woman, and stuck trying to provide some stability to an increasingly moody teenaged son. Her confidence has taken a beating, and even though she's spent her whole life building a home and a future, she's having to start over again, this time without a partner to lean on.
Josh is absolutely amazing. A motorcycle preacher, he's no holier than thou man with a collar. He's kind and genuine, and he sees something in Regan that she thinks she's lost. His faith keeps him in line as she pulls herself together and takes a chance with him.
Religion aside (though admittedly, it's a big part of the story), Preacher Man could easily be the story of any of thousands of women, somewhat lost and trying to figure out what comes next. The difference here is that Regan finds a good man -- or rather a good man bid on her -- and his kindness and faith make her transition into the next chapter of her life so much better.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2014
I've read this kind of story before, only with a different setting in a different time. This book felt fresh though, updated and very with the times. Josh is a new age sort of pastor, he works with kids and he does a good job of it. He is easy going and he really knows how to put his trust in God. It sure didn't hurt that he was handsome and rode an awesome motorcycle! :)
Reagan is still battling the left over hurts from a divorce. She is trying to provide for her child who is struggling with his own hurts and frustrations. Reagan is forced into an auction situation to raise money for a worthy cause and ends up humiliated but with a date. It's classic.
I loved the natural progression of this book. It all seemed very realistic and it was easy to read. The characters were likable. I loved the overall message that when God is in charge, things will work out. Maybe not how you think they will, or how you want them to, but they will work out.
This is a Christian Fiction book so there is quite a bit of soul saving and talking to God. This is one of the better Christian fiction books I have read lately and I'm glad I had the chance.
Reagan is still battling the left over hurts from a divorce. She is trying to provide for her child who is struggling with his own hurts and frustrations. Reagan is forced into an auction situation to raise money for a worthy cause and ends up humiliated but with a date. It's classic.
I loved the natural progression of this book. It all seemed very realistic and it was easy to read. The characters were likable. I loved the overall message that when God is in charge, things will work out. Maybe not how you think they will, or how you want them to, but they will work out.
This is a Christian Fiction book so there is quite a bit of soul saving and talking to God. This is one of the better Christian fiction books I have read lately and I'm glad I had the chance.
April 6, 2014
Category /Genre: Inspirational Romance
Received from: Laurie Larsen (in exchange for an honest review)
Tour by: Reading Addiction Book Tours
Recommended for: 14+
Grammar/editing: B – a few small errors
This is a stand-alone, contemporary, Christian romance novel.
Be still and listen. That still, small voice isn’t just your subconscious. Often it is God telling you what you need to know.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of single-mom meets hot, handsome, preacher man. I loved that Josh was ready to find “the one,” and counted on God to lead the way. Regan was so unsure of herself, it was easy to relate to her.
At the end of the story, there are questions to be used for your book club. Some of the questions are especially good for church-based book clubs to contemplate.
I was compelled to find Ms. Larsen on Facebook and “like” her author page. I would definitely like to read more of her life and love stories.
Received from: Laurie Larsen (in exchange for an honest review)
Tour by: Reading Addiction Book Tours
Recommended for: 14+
Grammar/editing: B – a few small errors
This is a stand-alone, contemporary, Christian romance novel.
Be still and listen. That still, small voice isn’t just your subconscious. Often it is God telling you what you need to know.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of single-mom meets hot, handsome, preacher man. I loved that Josh was ready to find “the one,” and counted on God to lead the way. Regan was so unsure of herself, it was easy to relate to her.
At the end of the story, there are questions to be used for your book club. Some of the questions are especially good for church-based book clubs to contemplate.
I was compelled to find Ms. Larsen on Facebook and “like” her author page. I would definitely like to read more of her life and love stories.
April 20, 2014
This story took over my day! This was exactly what I need this Easter weekend and on Holy Saturday.
I enjoyed the character development and Josh letting Regan come to her own decisions about her faith.
I enjoyed the character development and Josh letting Regan come to her own decisions about her faith.
October 15, 2019
I quite liked this. The characters were enjoyable and the plot was nice. I thought the ending proposal was a bit dumb considering they had only known each other for two months at the most, but otherwise, this was a quick, enjoyable read. Amen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2014
This book started out with a strong idea but I didn't feel like there was much follow through with the same zeal as it started with. It was a cool idea, but the book didn't really impress me.
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