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Faithful
Cydney Sanders thought she knew God's plan for her life. She'd marry, have kids, and then snap her body back into shape by doing Tae Bo. But she's celebrating her fortieth birthday as the maid of honor at her little sister's wedding...and still single. Now her life is suddenly complicated by the best man. He's the opposite of what she wants in a husband...and yet, he keeps defying her expectations. Starting with a lavendar rose--symbolizing enchantment--each rose he sends her reflects his growing love for her.
Cydney's best friend Dana appears to have the perfect marriage--until she discovers her husband's affair and her world goes into a tailspin. Then there is Phyllis--who is out of hope and out of prayers after asking God for six long years to help her husband find faith. When she runs into an old friend who is the Christian man she longs for, she's faced with an overwhelming choice.
Life-long friends with life-altering struggles. Will they trust God's faithfulness...and find strength to be faithful to Him?
308 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
247 people are currently reading
938 people want to read
About the author
Kim Cash Tate
21 books574 followersKim Cash Tate is the author of several books and a former practicing attorney. She has a deep love for the word of God, and loves to ignite a passion in others to not only know the Lord, but to walk intimately with Him. Kim lives in St. Louis with her husband of twenty-three years and their two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
January 9, 2022
3.5 stars
This was a beautiful story of friendship and faith following three women. All three are at different places their lives, one is single and two are married. There were some romantic elements, but definitely not a romance. Overall I liked this one a lot. My first book by this author and I’m sure I’ll check out more in the future.
This was a beautiful story of friendship and faith following three women. All three are at different places their lives, one is single and two are married. There were some romantic elements, but definitely not a romance. Overall I liked this one a lot. My first book by this author and I’m sure I’ll check out more in the future.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Machelle Williams
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Length: 9h 36m
October 4, 2010
I wanted to like this book... and I did like parts of this book, but overall I think I would just rate this book as "okay." The main problem I had with this book is it seemed liked everything in life was puppies and rainbows once a character found God, or gave their problems to God.
Spoilers below:
A wife finds out her husband - who happens to be a Christian leader within their home church - is having an affair with another member of their church. She cries for a couple of days, gives her problem to God and realizes she has forgiven her husband and no longer feels bitter.
A man who is a player doesn't have a problem with sex before marriage. Throughout the book he tries to date a strong Christian woman and tries to convince her break her vows of sex before marriage. After one bible study (that he joined to be with this woman), he gives himself to God and no longer questions or doubts what he once believed.
Spoilers over.
This book made me think about what I was I doing wrong... I do have faith. I do pray and I do try to give my problems to God. Even so, sometimes I do feel bitter; I do still question and do still have problems.
I think the book would have been better if it wasn't such a "happily ever after" for each character of the book. I am not saying that with being faithful to God and God's plan, life can not be great; I just think that even if you are faithful, problems sometimes are not always easily erased and emotions are not always wiped perfectly clean. But then again, maybe I am not faithful enough??
Spoilers below:
A wife finds out her husband - who happens to be a Christian leader within their home church - is having an affair with another member of their church. She cries for a couple of days, gives her problem to God and realizes she has forgiven her husband and no longer feels bitter.
A man who is a player doesn't have a problem with sex before marriage. Throughout the book he tries to date a strong Christian woman and tries to convince her break her vows of sex before marriage. After one bible study (that he joined to be with this woman), he gives himself to God and no longer questions or doubts what he once believed.
Spoilers over.
This book made me think about what I was I doing wrong... I do have faith. I do pray and I do try to give my problems to God. Even so, sometimes I do feel bitter; I do still question and do still have problems.
I think the book would have been better if it wasn't such a "happily ever after" for each character of the book. I am not saying that with being faithful to God and God's plan, life can not be great; I just think that even if you are faithful, problems sometimes are not always easily erased and emotions are not always wiped perfectly clean. But then again, maybe I am not faithful enough??
January 10, 2022
THREE POINT FIVE STARS
Faithful revolves around 3 Christian friends and their relationship with God.
Cydney: a single 40-year-old woman. She meets a man who wants to date her but she's unwilling to have sex with him. She wants a man who is a believer and wants more than sex for a relationship.
Phyllis: a married woman. Her husband is an unbeliever who she has been praying will come to God. She recently has made friends with a Christian man for who she has feelings for. She has to search herself to see if she really wants to ruin her family over her desires.
Dana: her husband is in leadership at church. One day she walks in on him cheating on her. She has to decide if she believes that he has repented and wants to save their marriage.
Faithful revolves around 3 Christian friends and their relationship with God.
Cydney: a single 40-year-old woman. She meets a man who wants to date her but she's unwilling to have sex with him. She wants a man who is a believer and wants more than sex for a relationship.
Phyllis: a married woman. Her husband is an unbeliever who she has been praying will come to God. She recently has made friends with a Christian man for who she has feelings for. She has to search herself to see if she really wants to ruin her family over her desires.
Dana: her husband is in leadership at church. One day she walks in on him cheating on her. She has to decide if she believes that he has repented and wants to save their marriage.
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Machelle Williams
Length: 9H 36M
January 14, 2018
I seem to have an unpopular opinion concerning this book. I did like it but I have read many religious novels on the subject such as Contingency and Devotion which I felt were done much better. I felt telling the stories of moe than one person was too much in one book, so all the stories and characters lacked depth. For example we did not see any of the events from the men in question which made it hard to have the feelings they had. For example, Scott and Dana's story needed far more attention, it was basically she is the love of his life, he cheats for literally no reason, saying she never really asks follow up questions about his day, he is an affair with a nasty much younger girls, where he gets caught in the act by his wife, in their marriage bed! Where he consistently brought the other woman, which is just disgusting! (They shared lunch before surrounded by pictures of his children and family for goodness sake as of it is normal and civilised), he then defends the other woman, leaves his broken wife a sobbing mess on the floor and takes the hand of his mistress and leaves! He then comes back hours later having showered at her place and has the cheek to say he has feelings for this child and he had to give her a life home because she had no car! He showed remorse but all his actions that led up to it were to selfish for me to believe he really cared! We are shown he ha a great marriage with 2 children, this girl is in the choir and talks to him by asking information about dating boys! Real subtle! There is no real connection or depth and if that's all it takes for Scott to stray and say he is feelings for someone else, I really question how deep his love for Dana really is? What makes is even worse they are counsellors for youth and marriages! So he knows the steps leading to an affair and the action you should take in avoiding or ending it but he chose not to! Who knows when it would have ended unless Dana walked in on them! Even his confession at the church was selfish it was to purge himself regardless of his suffering wife's wishes he not do it! Why rubbed salt in to the wound was Scott's immature and naive defender of the girl he cheated with as if she is not loose or horrible! She laughed in his wife's face when discovered, showed no remorse! Was not a virgin when Scott slept with her and had obvious ost experience with men, as well as no problem coming on to and sleeping with a married man, yet Scott still had to defend her as if she was virtuous! I have read fantastic books about infidelity where months of work and revelations are shown to prove that the marriage is healing and the adulterer ha changed! Not here Scott confesses, Dana forgives him! They have a little blip later on, but there is no real development, redemption or taking about the situation! I saw no healing or change? I honestly couldn't get over what Scott had done! Even selfish scumbags take the mistress to a hotel or go to her apartment for goodness sake! Not Scott this apparently awesome guy, a good Christian who took his mistress to his family home! To me that is a purposeful decision which shows his true colours! Another time he showed his true colours was defending the other woman and not being there to pick his wife up off the floor when it counted! His actions were inexcusable! He cheated when things were good, so goodness knows what he would do when things are bad! Dana deserved better she should have divorced him and found someone who actually was committed to and respected her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2013
Wonderful story of God's faithfulness to his people, even when we are being tempted to be unfaithful. It opened my eyes to the various ways of temptation that creep into our everyday lives...a Christian should be aware of even the appearance of sin (temptation).
Great characters. Seamless plot. Can't wait to read more from this author.
Great characters. Seamless plot. Can't wait to read more from this author.
Read
February 26, 2024Read.for the CIA infidelity scenario Mums the word🤐 as in this will be a minimalist review...as it harps on NO FORNICATION outside of marriage.😩
Also the H admits his sin in front of congregation... Decided this without consulting his wife 1st.
They hugged it out,near the altar in front of the crowd,abound applause😂
The couple involved in the Cheating scenario is very active in the church he some sort of associate pastor, I believe. From the get go ,once caught handles atrociously in the moment, protective of the other woman and actually leaves the premises with her.
I read this on Everand and I had to laugh. The one review there remarking on how she was pleased this wasn't preachy!😮 My goodness the entire book is one long extended sermon in my humble opinion!🙄😂😆
Full disclosure I did a bunch of skimming ...So no rating!
Also the H admits his sin in front of congregation... Decided this without consulting his wife 1st.
They hugged it out,near the altar in front of the crowd,abound applause😂
The couple involved in the Cheating scenario is very active in the church he some sort of associate pastor, I believe. From the get go ,once caught handles atrociously in the moment, protective of the other woman and actually leaves the premises with her.
I read this on Everand and I had to laugh. The one review there remarking on how she was pleased this wasn't preachy!😮 My goodness the entire book is one long extended sermon in my humble opinion!🙄😂😆
Full disclosure I did a bunch of skimming ...So no rating!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2011
Instead of celebrating her fortieth birthday with friends and family, Cydney (Cyd) Sanders is a bridesmaid at her younger sister’s wedding. Only one person acknowledges her special day and that’s Cedric, a man she met days before. A kind gesture on his part leads to a birthday dinner, but does Cedric really care about Cyd’s birthday or does he have ulterior motives? Cyd’s best friend, Dana, is experiencing trouble in her marriage; her husband, Scott, committed adultery. Even though there is forgiveness, will this Christian couple be able to get their marriage back on track? And Cyd’s friend, Phyllis: She’s a Christian, but her husband, Hayes, isn’t and it is her heart’s desire that he surrender his life to the Lord. How long can she continue to be a good Christian wife when the man she’s married to doesn’t have an ounce of respect for Christianity?
When Dana discovered Scott’s unfaithfulness, I felt so bad for her and I was not happy with him at all. Why didn’t Scott care about what God wanted him to do ‘before’ he made a bad choice? What? He could remember James 5:16 (Confess your sins one to another) but totally forgot about number seven of the Ten Commandments? He committed adultery and broke Dana’s heart, the woman he supposedly loved. It was good that he repented – necessary, in fact - but I didn’t think it was necessary for him to go about it the way he did, because his sins really weren’t ‘everybody’s’ business. But, then again, because of his testimony he may have helped other people to see the error of their ways. Now, I do believe Dana forgave Scott too quickly and I’m wondering if she did because she felt put on the spot. The author does show Dana still struggling with her feelings after she forgave her husband and I was glad to come to that part of the story, but still, the man had sex with another woman. Christian or not, adultery is the ultimate betrayal and yes, God wants us to forgive, but I’m thinkin’ it takes a much longer time before a woman gets to the point where she’ll even let her husband put a finger on her again, let alone embrace her.
I was glad Phyllis went to her class reunion, because she deserved to take some time for herself. She had a good time and I was happy for her. This character attended the same college my son attended, the University of Maryland College Park. That part of the story was entertaining because of the fun everybody was having and the familiarity made it much more enjoyable. Now, as for her marriage: I felt really bad for this woman. She got to the point where she couldn’t even manage ‘the faith of a mustard seed’. Life was getting her down and there was no answer from God no matter how much she prayed. I could understand why she thought the heavenly Father wasn’t working on her situation, but she needed to remember to ‘walk by faith, not by sight’ even though that can be difficult sometimes. And, personally, I was glad she ran into, Rod. He was a good Christian man with a heart for young people. I liked him and he was somebody Phyllis could relate to. Was it wrong for her to enjoy the fellowship of a Christian brother? No, it wasn’t… as long as she kept it friendly and didn’t cross any lines. I was reading Chapter 10 and thought ‘walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh, girl’.
Phyllis’ husband, Hayes: This man had serious issues and I figured something must have happened in his past to make him act the way he did. Church didn’t come between him and Phyllis as he claimed. The problem was his attitude towards God. Kudos to Phyllis for caring enough about her spiritual growth to still attend services even though he unbelieving husband wouldn’t go, and for making sure her children didn’t miss church as long as she was around.
Pregnancy out-of-wedlock, fornication, adultery: Kim Cash Tate deals with unfaithfulness in a way that’s thought-provoking and entertaining. Some folks at Living Word Community Church kept Pastor Lyles busy, that’s for sure. Cyd was the main character. I liked her, I was very proud of her for the choice she made as I read the end of chapter eleven and I liked the part about the lavender rose, but the other characters situations drew me in more, Phyllis’ in particular. And as for the wedding, it was so elegantly described. In fact, the way Tate describes details from Stephanie’s bridal fitting to the exchanging of vows made me feel like I was I was a part of it all.
Faithful is like a good Hallmark movie. I’d have no problem cozying up on the couch to watch this story coming to life on television. It would be very nice if that happened. One thing, though: All throughout the story there are inspiring, encouraging, uplifting prayers and even prayers before meals, but when a character accepts Jesus as personal Lord and Savior the prayer of salvation or some call it ‘the sinners prayer’ – the most important prayer of all - is omitted and I didn’t understand why. I don’t believe a person has to be a Christian to enjoy this book, so I’m thinkin’, hoping, really, that unsaved readers enjoying the story could begin to feel like they want to know Christ so it would have been good if the words to pray were there for them.
Thoughts that came to mind immediately after reading this book: Sometimes Christians don’t pray because we don’t want to hear the answer. Also, Christians make mistakes just like everyone else. We are not perfect. If we are trying to please God with our choices then we should know better than to do some of the things we do, but sometimes it takes a mistake here and there to bring us closer to God. Because, you see, when we do mess up it hurts to know that we hurt our heavenly Father with our disobedience, so we go to the Word more, seek Him more, pray more and our relationship with Jesus grows stronger.
When Dana discovered Scott’s unfaithfulness, I felt so bad for her and I was not happy with him at all. Why didn’t Scott care about what God wanted him to do ‘before’ he made a bad choice? What? He could remember James 5:16 (Confess your sins one to another) but totally forgot about number seven of the Ten Commandments? He committed adultery and broke Dana’s heart, the woman he supposedly loved. It was good that he repented – necessary, in fact - but I didn’t think it was necessary for him to go about it the way he did, because his sins really weren’t ‘everybody’s’ business. But, then again, because of his testimony he may have helped other people to see the error of their ways. Now, I do believe Dana forgave Scott too quickly and I’m wondering if she did because she felt put on the spot. The author does show Dana still struggling with her feelings after she forgave her husband and I was glad to come to that part of the story, but still, the man had sex with another woman. Christian or not, adultery is the ultimate betrayal and yes, God wants us to forgive, but I’m thinkin’ it takes a much longer time before a woman gets to the point where she’ll even let her husband put a finger on her again, let alone embrace her.
I was glad Phyllis went to her class reunion, because she deserved to take some time for herself. She had a good time and I was happy for her. This character attended the same college my son attended, the University of Maryland College Park. That part of the story was entertaining because of the fun everybody was having and the familiarity made it much more enjoyable. Now, as for her marriage: I felt really bad for this woman. She got to the point where she couldn’t even manage ‘the faith of a mustard seed’. Life was getting her down and there was no answer from God no matter how much she prayed. I could understand why she thought the heavenly Father wasn’t working on her situation, but she needed to remember to ‘walk by faith, not by sight’ even though that can be difficult sometimes. And, personally, I was glad she ran into, Rod. He was a good Christian man with a heart for young people. I liked him and he was somebody Phyllis could relate to. Was it wrong for her to enjoy the fellowship of a Christian brother? No, it wasn’t… as long as she kept it friendly and didn’t cross any lines. I was reading Chapter 10 and thought ‘walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh, girl’.
Phyllis’ husband, Hayes: This man had serious issues and I figured something must have happened in his past to make him act the way he did. Church didn’t come between him and Phyllis as he claimed. The problem was his attitude towards God. Kudos to Phyllis for caring enough about her spiritual growth to still attend services even though he unbelieving husband wouldn’t go, and for making sure her children didn’t miss church as long as she was around.
Pregnancy out-of-wedlock, fornication, adultery: Kim Cash Tate deals with unfaithfulness in a way that’s thought-provoking and entertaining. Some folks at Living Word Community Church kept Pastor Lyles busy, that’s for sure. Cyd was the main character. I liked her, I was very proud of her for the choice she made as I read the end of chapter eleven and I liked the part about the lavender rose, but the other characters situations drew me in more, Phyllis’ in particular. And as for the wedding, it was so elegantly described. In fact, the way Tate describes details from Stephanie’s bridal fitting to the exchanging of vows made me feel like I was I was a part of it all.
Faithful is like a good Hallmark movie. I’d have no problem cozying up on the couch to watch this story coming to life on television. It would be very nice if that happened. One thing, though: All throughout the story there are inspiring, encouraging, uplifting prayers and even prayers before meals, but when a character accepts Jesus as personal Lord and Savior the prayer of salvation or some call it ‘the sinners prayer’ – the most important prayer of all - is omitted and I didn’t understand why. I don’t believe a person has to be a Christian to enjoy this book, so I’m thinkin’, hoping, really, that unsaved readers enjoying the story could begin to feel like they want to know Christ so it would have been good if the words to pray were there for them.
Thoughts that came to mind immediately after reading this book: Sometimes Christians don’t pray because we don’t want to hear the answer. Also, Christians make mistakes just like everyone else. We are not perfect. If we are trying to please God with our choices then we should know better than to do some of the things we do, but sometimes it takes a mistake here and there to bring us closer to God. Because, you see, when we do mess up it hurts to know that we hurt our heavenly Father with our disobedience, so we go to the Word more, seek Him more, pray more and our relationship with Jesus grows stronger.
December 8, 2010
Thank you Goodreads!! I won this book on a giveaway and just started the first chapter and am already hooked!
I read this book in about 3 sittings - just needed to know what happened, and there were moments when I thought this book was predictable, but it turned out I was wrong. I found this book wrote with realistic, wholesome characters and situations laced with good fitting scripture and how God gets you through everything in your life if you believe and trust in Him.
This book took you into the lives of 3 best friends who are Christians dealing with three very different relationships, one is married to a non-believer, one just turned 40 and is still single, and one is married to a Christian husband who she just found out cheated on her.
Thank you again for picking me, Goodreads!! This was a great book and I'll definitely be looking into more this Author!!!
I read this book in about 3 sittings - just needed to know what happened, and there were moments when I thought this book was predictable, but it turned out I was wrong. I found this book wrote with realistic, wholesome characters and situations laced with good fitting scripture and how God gets you through everything in your life if you believe and trust in Him.
This book took you into the lives of 3 best friends who are Christians dealing with three very different relationships, one is married to a non-believer, one just turned 40 and is still single, and one is married to a Christian husband who she just found out cheated on her.
Thank you again for picking me, Goodreads!! This was a great book and I'll definitely be looking into more this Author!!!
October 16, 2024
I'm not sure how I feel about this one. I liked the women and I liked that they each had different struggles. Sometimes it felt like things were moving too quickly with their stories. There was a lot of real hurt and issues that are brought up in their lives. Sometimes I wanted more discussions and heart work before the next step in the relationships happens. I'm glad I read it and there really is a lot to think about in the various relationships that are portrayed.
November 10, 2010
I SO love the cover of this book. Now that I've read the story, I see the symbolism in it, and that made me appreciate the cover even more. I am glad the author was "faithful" to write this book. I believe it will touch many lives. I can see why it was chosen for Women of Faith. I hope I don't give away any spoilers in my review, but it's from my heart, so please forgive me if I do...
As far as realism goes, I found this book to be very sincere and believable. I sensed the author's heart for marriage and healing in this story. I could tell that she poured her heart into the message that was so skillfully woven into the story. This book, while dealing with Scriptures, church, and other Christian themes, did not feel preachy at all. I dislike preachy stories. This was so natural in flow and theme that I didn't feel like a sermon was being preached. That is a good thing, especially if people of weak faith read this book. It won't turn them off to the message.
Having known people in just about every situation written about in this story, I found the conflict to be well done. It showed the dark side of sin and temptation without getting too ugly. So many books where women were cheated on show rage that goes on and on and frankly, that gets old. I want to walk into the pages and tell the characters, "A-hem, you are supposed to love Jesus and believe in grace and forgiveness, remember?"
There was such a godly balance in this story that was refreshing. The author didn't shy away from showing the beauty of marital love and true peace in the home. These issues are so important and many authors skim over them, probably out of fear that it won't be well-received. I loved how deep the author delved into the story regarding the marital themes. Sex in marriage is beautiful and if the author had totally shied away from showing this, then the book would have been weak, at best. I also loved how the author showed that honesty is essential in any relationship for it to be solid enough to withstand temptation. Real love doesn't hold back.
Things tied up well at the end, but the story wasn't too neatly wrapped up. Some situations were still unresolved, but this wasn't bad because it was dealt with in such a way that it worked for the story. There was a very positive ending to this book, and in this current economy I think readers will find that refreshing as well. I'll bet that many couples aren't divorcing right now because it's simply too expensive to do that, so they live in misery. Kim shows that marriage is worth fighting for, and that friends need to support each other through the hard times.
I loved Cyd's struggle with Cedric. I've known guys who were players and honestly, after they've been doing that for years, some guys simply tire out from living the playboy lifestyle and start to regret the lack of true intimacy in their relationships. A strong Christian woman would be very attractive to a man who is tired of playing the field. I loved how she sensed the need to be cautious and not give in to the desires she felt because she'd just turned forty and had been faithfully single for many years. I also loved how she sought the Lord in regards to the relationship and listened to his voice. Plus, she was accountable to other women who were Christians.
I felt Phyllis's agony over the lack of spiritual connection with her husband and can see how easily that could be a snare for a woman who wanted more from their marriage. I also understood her husband's pain and the reason for his issues. This was powerfully done. I found it very realistic in regards to the temptation she felt and the emotions she experienced while fighting her emotional demons. In essence, she was having an emotional affair and that can be just as hard to break in some ways. But friends, faith, and good fellowship helped turn her around. I loved how much these ladies prayed for each other, too.
Dana's painful situation probably touched my heart the most. I loved the message in this subplot as well. Dana felt all of the emotions and grief that a woman would feel in her situation, but did so with a heart who had a personal relationship with the Lord. So she was sensitive to His voice. She also loved her husband. So many people think adultery is a rift that can never be repaired in a marriage. I've known several couples who have healed after adultery and it was always because both parties wanted to work it out, and while grieving, the person sinned against was willing to work through the pain rather than beating up the spouse that hurt them.
I loved how Scott never gave up and was willing to publicly humiliate himself for a greater purpose. Despite his mistakes he was committed to their marriage. I believed he was sincere and his confession sounded totally realistic to me. The whole church body benefited from his boldness. And Dana was such a wonderful example to all women who have been hurt. The message about Israel being unfaithful to God and how we are all unfaithful at times was a good one. We all need to be aware that we are capable of falling. It's when we stand on our own self-righteousness that we're the most vulnerable.
This book was so awesome that I almost read it straight through. It ranks high on my list of favorites for 2010. I've read a lot of good books this year and this was one of the most inspiring for me personally. I highly recommend it.
As far as realism goes, I found this book to be very sincere and believable. I sensed the author's heart for marriage and healing in this story. I could tell that she poured her heart into the message that was so skillfully woven into the story. This book, while dealing with Scriptures, church, and other Christian themes, did not feel preachy at all. I dislike preachy stories. This was so natural in flow and theme that I didn't feel like a sermon was being preached. That is a good thing, especially if people of weak faith read this book. It won't turn them off to the message.
Having known people in just about every situation written about in this story, I found the conflict to be well done. It showed the dark side of sin and temptation without getting too ugly. So many books where women were cheated on show rage that goes on and on and frankly, that gets old. I want to walk into the pages and tell the characters, "A-hem, you are supposed to love Jesus and believe in grace and forgiveness, remember?"
There was such a godly balance in this story that was refreshing. The author didn't shy away from showing the beauty of marital love and true peace in the home. These issues are so important and many authors skim over them, probably out of fear that it won't be well-received. I loved how deep the author delved into the story regarding the marital themes. Sex in marriage is beautiful and if the author had totally shied away from showing this, then the book would have been weak, at best. I also loved how the author showed that honesty is essential in any relationship for it to be solid enough to withstand temptation. Real love doesn't hold back.
Things tied up well at the end, but the story wasn't too neatly wrapped up. Some situations were still unresolved, but this wasn't bad because it was dealt with in such a way that it worked for the story. There was a very positive ending to this book, and in this current economy I think readers will find that refreshing as well. I'll bet that many couples aren't divorcing right now because it's simply too expensive to do that, so they live in misery. Kim shows that marriage is worth fighting for, and that friends need to support each other through the hard times.
I loved Cyd's struggle with Cedric. I've known guys who were players and honestly, after they've been doing that for years, some guys simply tire out from living the playboy lifestyle and start to regret the lack of true intimacy in their relationships. A strong Christian woman would be very attractive to a man who is tired of playing the field. I loved how she sensed the need to be cautious and not give in to the desires she felt because she'd just turned forty and had been faithfully single for many years. I also loved how she sought the Lord in regards to the relationship and listened to his voice. Plus, she was accountable to other women who were Christians.
I felt Phyllis's agony over the lack of spiritual connection with her husband and can see how easily that could be a snare for a woman who wanted more from their marriage. I also understood her husband's pain and the reason for his issues. This was powerfully done. I found it very realistic in regards to the temptation she felt and the emotions she experienced while fighting her emotional demons. In essence, she was having an emotional affair and that can be just as hard to break in some ways. But friends, faith, and good fellowship helped turn her around. I loved how much these ladies prayed for each other, too.
Dana's painful situation probably touched my heart the most. I loved the message in this subplot as well. Dana felt all of the emotions and grief that a woman would feel in her situation, but did so with a heart who had a personal relationship with the Lord. So she was sensitive to His voice. She also loved her husband. So many people think adultery is a rift that can never be repaired in a marriage. I've known several couples who have healed after adultery and it was always because both parties wanted to work it out, and while grieving, the person sinned against was willing to work through the pain rather than beating up the spouse that hurt them.
I loved how Scott never gave up and was willing to publicly humiliate himself for a greater purpose. Despite his mistakes he was committed to their marriage. I believed he was sincere and his confession sounded totally realistic to me. The whole church body benefited from his boldness. And Dana was such a wonderful example to all women who have been hurt. The message about Israel being unfaithful to God and how we are all unfaithful at times was a good one. We all need to be aware that we are capable of falling. It's when we stand on our own self-righteousness that we're the most vulnerable.
This book was so awesome that I almost read it straight through. It ranks high on my list of favorites for 2010. I've read a lot of good books this year and this was one of the most inspiring for me personally. I highly recommend it.
April 14, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much . The 3 friends that bonded at church have issues in their lives that they each have to overcome.
But praying for each other they are able to come out at the end , praising God .
Definitely deserves 5 stars .
But praying for each other they are able to come out at the end , praising God .
Definitely deserves 5 stars .
January 5, 2011
I was truly, honestly, blown away by this book!
While I had high hopes for a title & author I'd never heard of before... simply due to the Women of Faith endorsement, I had no idea what I was in for, but God sure did!
Drawing for true to life characters, scenarios, and sincere struggles... there is a little something here for everyone's life, heart, and need. Yet they are all so intricately woven, and none more prominent or important than the other, I'm still astounded at the beautiful balance in the story-telling. Through the most intensely dramatic moments I found my heart racing, tears welling, and if I could convince myself to set the book down for any period of time my mind and prayers were very much asking how I might respond... how I might support others... how I might be affected... in such severity myself.
I love reading about real people... real people messing up... real people, who don't just plod along without responding... real people who can only be redeemed by a very real faith in a very real God.
While I had high hopes for a title & author I'd never heard of before... simply due to the Women of Faith endorsement, I had no idea what I was in for, but God sure did!
Drawing for true to life characters, scenarios, and sincere struggles... there is a little something here for everyone's life, heart, and need. Yet they are all so intricately woven, and none more prominent or important than the other, I'm still astounded at the beautiful balance in the story-telling. Through the most intensely dramatic moments I found my heart racing, tears welling, and if I could convince myself to set the book down for any period of time my mind and prayers were very much asking how I might respond... how I might support others... how I might be affected... in such severity myself.
I love reading about real people... real people messing up... real people, who don't just plod along without responding... real people who can only be redeemed by a very real faith in a very real God.
July 7, 2024
3.5 stars. The book was good overall, but some parts were very cheesy. I’m new to doing reviews, so I’m not sure how to word it, but some parts of the book just didn’t flow. It’s an easy read, good message at the end… through it all God is indeed, FAITHFUL. My takeaway, never supress your passion for Christ for someone else’s comfort.
September 18, 2025
Audio/I also own the physical book. I’m not sure what made me buy the book but told from the perspective of three women in different stages of life and yet, they are dear friends after meeting at church. Cyd thought she would marry, have a family, have the house, etc and yet, at almost 40.. she is still single. She’s trying to trust God with her desires & dreams.. at her younger sister’s wedding, she’s paired with the best man and he’s nothing like what she wants in a husband and yet, he pursues her and after he becomes a Christian, she sees a different man.
Dana is married to Scott and they seem to have a perfect marriage (+ heavily involved at church and various ministries)until she catches him with another woman.. and she learns to find God and trust her heart to Him and let Him work out her marriage.
Phyllis is happily married until she’s not. Her and her husband have a great marriage but he’s not a Christian and it drags on her/her faith. She finds herself tiptoeing to avoid conflict with him. When tempted by a Godly man while out of town, she realizes what she was about to do (the man turned her down b/c he was working on his own relationship with the Lord) and she recommits herself to God.
All through the book, these strong women are seeing the theme of “faithful” in their lives — God is faithful in every aspect of life, no matter what. I found myself laughing, almost yelling at the book (when decisions were being made) and almost crying in other places.. this author writes well and really connects you to the characters.
There were adult elements between spouses but described in respectful ways.
Dana is married to Scott and they seem to have a perfect marriage (+ heavily involved at church and various ministries)until she catches him with another woman.. and she learns to find God and trust her heart to Him and let Him work out her marriage.
Phyllis is happily married until she’s not. Her and her husband have a great marriage but he’s not a Christian and it drags on her/her faith. She finds herself tiptoeing to avoid conflict with him. When tempted by a Godly man while out of town, she realizes what she was about to do (the man turned her down b/c he was working on his own relationship with the Lord) and she recommits herself to God.
All through the book, these strong women are seeing the theme of “faithful” in their lives — God is faithful in every aspect of life, no matter what. I found myself laughing, almost yelling at the book (when decisions were being made) and almost crying in other places.. this author writes well and really connects you to the characters.
There were adult elements between spouses but described in respectful ways.
September 16, 2021
This book was all that. This is my 2nd time reading this book, but this time I did the audio version . Kim is one of my favorite authors and I love how she uses the characters to show their struggles and their relationship with God
January 26, 2025
Loved this, although I listened to the audiobook, and it was great!
August 17, 2024
Memorable. Also Stephanie needs a book.
September 14, 2025
2.5 ⭐️⭐️🌟
November 29, 2021
3- This was a bit of a weird book. It's a Christian romance, so it's chaste, except for the married folks, and they're completely closed door. Tate pretty much avoids even talking about kissing.
It's not a rom-com, because it's not funny. I guess it's straight up a romance. But while there's three main characters, each with her own plot line, there's a lot more ink dedicated to sermons and prayers than to anything that could be considered romantic. And a lot of the sermons and prayers are about sexual purity. And while I understand a Christian writer putting an emphasis on sexual purity, reading line after line of characters praying that God will help them resist sexual temptation is not fun. Although there is a happy ending, and everyone is in love.
Tate is also super fixated on weight. It's really clear from her writing that losing weight is a good thing and gaining weight is a bad thing. There's a token nod to "being together through all the changes in my wife's body," but it's surrounded by a lot of "the other woman thinner, and therefore more attractive" with no pushback from either the husband or the wife about how maybe thin isn't the be-all and end-all of sexiness.
It was a good enough book. Just a bit weird.
It's not a rom-com, because it's not funny. I guess it's straight up a romance. But while there's three main characters, each with her own plot line, there's a lot more ink dedicated to sermons and prayers than to anything that could be considered romantic. And a lot of the sermons and prayers are about sexual purity. And while I understand a Christian writer putting an emphasis on sexual purity, reading line after line of characters praying that God will help them resist sexual temptation is not fun. Although there is a happy ending, and everyone is in love.
Tate is also super fixated on weight. It's really clear from her writing that losing weight is a good thing and gaining weight is a bad thing. There's a token nod to "being together through all the changes in my wife's body," but it's surrounded by a lot of "the other woman thinner, and therefore more attractive" with no pushback from either the husband or the wife about how maybe thin isn't the be-all and end-all of sexiness.
It was a good enough book. Just a bit weird.
August 18, 2021
I really like this book. I didn't read much of the authors notes prior to the book nor have I heard of this author, I just liked the title so I thought it was about remaining faithful in a marriage but it was so much more. It was not only about remaining faithful in a marriage but remaining faithful to God. It was so good and Cyd was such an inspiration. All the people around her experienced trouble in keeping their word and faithfulness with God, but she remained humbled and true and she was a light that everyone needed, always seeing the good in others. I am so happy for Dana and Scott to work through his infidelity, Phillis and Hayes and him not wanting to be apart of church, the man who lost his wife but still remained true to God. Stephanie and her husband. the book was absolutely wonderful and I can't wait to read another book from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2022
What I read: Faithful by Kim Cash Tate
Why I picked it up: Was in Hoopla looking for Christian romances to listen to and this one looked interesting.
How I read it: On audio at 1.75x.
What it’s about: Three friends in all different states of life: single at 40, infidelity, and husband is an unbeliever. Each of their stories plays out during a two week sermon on God’s plan for sex and discussions in intimacy groups.
What I liked: This is a Christian romance with deep Christian themes. That’s not always true. I also appreciated the diversity of race and faith in the book.
What I disliked: Cedric seems to be inauthentic. I never really liked him.
Genre: Christian romance.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and sure.
Why I picked it up: Was in Hoopla looking for Christian romances to listen to and this one looked interesting.
How I read it: On audio at 1.75x.
What it’s about: Three friends in all different states of life: single at 40, infidelity, and husband is an unbeliever. Each of their stories plays out during a two week sermon on God’s plan for sex and discussions in intimacy groups.
What I liked: This is a Christian romance with deep Christian themes. That’s not always true. I also appreciated the diversity of race and faith in the book.
What I disliked: Cedric seems to be inauthentic. I never really liked him.
Genre: Christian romance.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and sure.
September 22, 2010
This book is about three women who are struggling through relationships with their male significant others for different reasons. The three women share an incredibly close relationship, especially bound together in their faith in Christ.
The book covers, with sound Biblical truths, topics such as modesty, adultery, sex before marriage, and lust. And while I agree with the author wholeheartedly, the book came across as slightly cheesy and a little bit preachy. With that said, it was an enjoyable book and I found myself looking forward to the times I was able to read it and loved the characters.
The book covers, with sound Biblical truths, topics such as modesty, adultery, sex before marriage, and lust. And while I agree with the author wholeheartedly, the book came across as slightly cheesy and a little bit preachy. With that said, it was an enjoyable book and I found myself looking forward to the times I was able to read it and loved the characters.
October 17, 2022
Updating my review:
Faithful- by Kim Cash Tate
I went back and forth with giving this a 4 or 4.5. I think I’m officially landing on 4. I can’t wait to ready more from this author as this was my first one. This book is a beautiful written book that talks about 3 different woman and their friendship. and what they are going through. One of things that stood out to me most about this book was community, with believers outside of Sundays.
1.You have Cydney is thought her life would look a certain kind of way, and she realizes just how far truth that is when she on her 40th birthday is attending her younger sister’s wedding. Then the one person she begins to connect with is not a believer, and she will not go down that road.
2.You have Dana who has a beautiful family with her husband. They are active in the church, so much so they run a marriage group. Only Dana finds her husband being unfaithful.
3.Then you have Phyllis who loves the Lord very much, as do her children, however her husband, after years of prayers is not believer. Their disconnect becomes very strong because of this and Phyliss finds herself wondering what it would be like to be with someone who is a believer.
I love that all these women are going through things that real and just because you’re Christian doesn’t mean you can’t have these struggles. I enjoy all the moments it talks about intimacy between husband and wife, because its real. The church is quick to speak out on it, but never wants to have that dialogue. It literally effects everyone, so I love that is in this book in a classy way.
In some ways I felt the book dragged just a little, and the completion of seems just little unfinished. Some could say they felt like the story had a fairy tale ending, but I feel like I get the authors point of view. You trust in Him and stay faithful He will work out your situations, not they won’t all end up on a good note, but to me it’s a fiction book. I’m not going to judge that to hard.
Overall solid 4 star!
Faithful- by Kim Cash Tate
I went back and forth with giving this a 4 or 4.5. I think I’m officially landing on 4. I can’t wait to ready more from this author as this was my first one. This book is a beautiful written book that talks about 3 different woman and their friendship. and what they are going through. One of things that stood out to me most about this book was community, with believers outside of Sundays.
1.You have Cydney is thought her life would look a certain kind of way, and she realizes just how far truth that is when she on her 40th birthday is attending her younger sister’s wedding. Then the one person she begins to connect with is not a believer, and she will not go down that road.
2.You have Dana who has a beautiful family with her husband. They are active in the church, so much so they run a marriage group. Only Dana finds her husband being unfaithful.
3.Then you have Phyllis who loves the Lord very much, as do her children, however her husband, after years of prayers is not believer. Their disconnect becomes very strong because of this and Phyliss finds herself wondering what it would be like to be with someone who is a believer.
I love that all these women are going through things that real and just because you’re Christian doesn’t mean you can’t have these struggles. I enjoy all the moments it talks about intimacy between husband and wife, because its real. The church is quick to speak out on it, but never wants to have that dialogue. It literally effects everyone, so I love that is in this book in a classy way.
In some ways I felt the book dragged just a little, and the completion of seems just little unfinished. Some could say they felt like the story had a fairy tale ending, but I feel like I get the authors point of view. You trust in Him and stay faithful He will work out your situations, not they won’t all end up on a good note, but to me it’s a fiction book. I’m not going to judge that to hard.
Overall solid 4 star!
November 5, 2024
I thought I didn’t want to read this book bec of its length. I had delayed reading it for many, many months. But finally reached the end of my list of shorter reads and decided to go in. Boy, oh boy, this book was worth every minute. The novel showed us how easy it can be to fall into temptation and become unfaithful juxtaposed with those that has to make a conscious decision to be faithful. It’s a thin line, and the right circumstances can easily move us from our stance on faithfulness to an act or thought into unfaithfulness. I know a few aged Christian ladies that desire a husband and it just hadn’t happened yet. Syd is in this same predicament, and at age 40, she isn’t as sure. Along comes a handsome, charismatic, charming, sexy, professional and unsaved man. What will se do? How can see navigate this situation and maintain her fidelity to God, and follow the pulls on her heart? Phyllis, your heart will ache for her. What decisions will she make, and at what cost? Whether we decide to be faithful or unfaithful, that very decision will impact our future. A decision to be unfaithful has a tremendous cost and impact onto even our future generations. The author dealt with real emotions, and real circumstances that we or our family members have it will face.
July 20, 2025
Trope: Christian novel, redemption, new beginning, forgiveness and new found family
General thoughts:
An novel full of life lessons based on faith and the bible . Very easy to read and a bit predictable.
Definitely would recommend the read !
Book overview:
We follow 3 girlfriends and their struggle with faithfulness.
Syd is a 40-year-old unmarried lecturer who has been approached by a man known as a womaniser and lukewarm Christian. This guy is not her ideal man, but Cedric is determined to lock Syd down.
Dana has been married to a Godly man, but he has given in to temptation, which has resulted in infidelity. Can her marriage recover from this betrayal?
Then we have last but not least Phylis who is married with 4 kids.
Her husband went through church hurt when he was younger, not interested in going to church or having a relationship with God in his adulthood. This is causing stress for Phyllis and the kids, who enjoy being in the house of the Lord and being part of the kingdom of God. Will Phyllis give up on her husband and entertain a past love interest who does have a relationship with God?
Read this book to find out how these ladies deal with their individual obstacles!
General thoughts:
An novel full of life lessons based on faith and the bible . Very easy to read and a bit predictable.
Definitely would recommend the read !
Book overview:
We follow 3 girlfriends and their struggle with faithfulness.
Syd is a 40-year-old unmarried lecturer who has been approached by a man known as a womaniser and lukewarm Christian. This guy is not her ideal man, but Cedric is determined to lock Syd down.
Dana has been married to a Godly man, but he has given in to temptation, which has resulted in infidelity. Can her marriage recover from this betrayal?
Then we have last but not least Phylis who is married with 4 kids.
Her husband went through church hurt when he was younger, not interested in going to church or having a relationship with God in his adulthood. This is causing stress for Phyllis and the kids, who enjoy being in the house of the Lord and being part of the kingdom of God. Will Phyllis give up on her husband and entertain a past love interest who does have a relationship with God?
Read this book to find out how these ladies deal with their individual obstacles!
November 8, 2025
A quick read but
I’ve read better with similar plots. Namely Victoria C Murray’s masterpiece: Temptation. Love love LOVES that book. I really did not like the Scott and Dana story. Like at all. Way too much of it was about him and not enough about how he humiliated his wife and children. Like after all the lies, she took his word for it about using protection. Really? She owed it to herself to be sure and make him get tested. It was as if from the moment she found out about the infidelity, everyone immediately wanted her to forgive him, and somehow her sister was crazy for telling her to take time for herself and the kids. Just bizarre. Remember , the couple in Temptation reconciled after much heartache, and prayer, and work but that did not happen here. The church itself was very stereotypical megachurch which gets boring when you read enough books.
Cedric came on so strong with Cyd that I really didn’t understand what she saw in him. I honestly have no idea how Phyllis’ story ended because I started skimming.
I began skipping pages probably halfway through. Idk I have just read better books with these themes. I am glad I used credits on this.
I’ve read better with similar plots. Namely Victoria C Murray’s masterpiece: Temptation. Love love LOVES that book. I really did not like the Scott and Dana story. Like at all. Way too much of it was about him and not enough about how he humiliated his wife and children. Like after all the lies, she took his word for it about using protection. Really? She owed it to herself to be sure and make him get tested. It was as if from the moment she found out about the infidelity, everyone immediately wanted her to forgive him, and somehow her sister was crazy for telling her to take time for herself and the kids. Just bizarre. Remember , the couple in Temptation reconciled after much heartache, and prayer, and work but that did not happen here. The church itself was very stereotypical megachurch which gets boring when you read enough books.
Cedric came on so strong with Cyd that I really didn’t understand what she saw in him. I honestly have no idea how Phyllis’ story ended because I started skimming.
I began skipping pages probably halfway through. Idk I have just read better books with these themes. I am glad I used credits on this.
July 3, 2020
This was a pretty enjoyable book as I really did look forward to the times I would read it and I finished it in a few days. It did make me think more about temptation and pointed me to how God is faithful to provide a way out for us being tempted. It also really did encourage me in my pursuit for purity. I like how not all the three main characters had their absolutely happily ever after ending (Cue Phyllis) because life's not always rosy. I did think Cyd was going to be single though, as I would have liked to see how her relationship with God would have been had that been the case, but that's just my preference. Lastly, I just couldn't wrap my mind around how she married her sister's brother-in-law. I know they aren't related by blood people do it but that just didn't suit well with me and was a little confusing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
I loved this book! 💕 It was my first Christian fiction read, and overall it was really good. The themes of faith, forgiveness, and purpose were so present throughout, and I appreciated how it tied romance and spiritual growth together.
That said — some parts didn’t feel totally realistic. Cyd was a strong lead and I rooted for her, but Cedric lacked the kind of character development I needed. He honestly seemed like the type of man you run from 🏃🏽♀️💨 not run to.
Scott and Dana felt more believable, especially with Scott being a man of God. But I didn’t love how Dana’s healing was forced into the spotlight with the church — it felt like she didn’t get full agency in that moment.
Now Phyllis? Loved her. 🤍 But her story tested my realism — being married to a man so deeply opposed to faith was hard to sit with. Even though his return to God wrapped it up, I felt like she had every reason to walk away sooner.
Overall, this book was a great reminder of why we wait for sex after marriage — and why spiritual alignment truly matters. This was a great reminder of why we wait for sex — not just for obedience, but for emotional safety and clarity. Some of the characters showed what happens when we confuse spiritual potential with real growth. I want to explore more Christian fiction, but with a little more realism and emotional nuance. Still grateful this was my first. 📖🙏🏽
That said — some parts didn’t feel totally realistic. Cyd was a strong lead and I rooted for her, but Cedric lacked the kind of character development I needed. He honestly seemed like the type of man you run from 🏃🏽♀️💨 not run to.
Scott and Dana felt more believable, especially with Scott being a man of God. But I didn’t love how Dana’s healing was forced into the spotlight with the church — it felt like she didn’t get full agency in that moment.
Now Phyllis? Loved her. 🤍 But her story tested my realism — being married to a man so deeply opposed to faith was hard to sit with. Even though his return to God wrapped it up, I felt like she had every reason to walk away sooner.
Overall, this book was a great reminder of why we wait for sex after marriage — and why spiritual alignment truly matters. This was a great reminder of why we wait for sex — not just for obedience, but for emotional safety and clarity. Some of the characters showed what happens when we confuse spiritual potential with real growth. I want to explore more Christian fiction, but with a little more realism and emotional nuance. Still grateful this was my first. 📖🙏🏽
August 21, 2020
Loved it !There are many "Christian books" that I have read but ,this book has showcased what Christian really means . The struggles of the characters are real and relatable ,how they have solved the problems is commendable ,and I especially love how they kept going back to the Author(Jesus) even after they had failed for help. A lot of emphasis has been placed on praying as should be the case for all believers and fleeing from sin. Its so easy to sin so no one should ever boast of been STRONG. My take home and challenge is Matthew 20:41 - "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
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