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Truth Be Told
The author of The Personal Librarian and Essence bestsellers Temptation and Joy returns with a story about one woman's personal and spiritual journey to overcome the consequences of her husband's dark secret.Grace Monroe has the ideal a devoted husband, adoring daughters, and a booming career in politics. Newly elected on a Christian platform to the Los Angeles city council, she is determined to put her mistakes behind her and focus on her bright future. But when a secret from her husband's past is revealed, setting off a chain of attacks that threaten to rip her family apart, Grace must face a dilemma that will force her to question her life and her faith.
466 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2004
33 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Christopher Murray
69 books2,398 followersVictoria Christopher Murray is the author of nine Essence bestselling novels, including The Ex Files; Too Little, Too Late; and Lady Jasmine. Winner of the African American Literary Award for Fiction and Author of the Year (Female).
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 6, 2017
I enjoyed this book, as is usually the case with Mrs. Murray's novels. Grace was certainly a force to be reckoned with. And Connor's faith was amazing. Solomon was wise beyond his years, and I was so thankful for his resilience. I loved Devry, Chandler, and Zoe, and of course Amber and Jayde. I could have done without Starlight and Lexington, but as I got to the end, it all sort of came full circle for me. Overall, it was an interesting read and a good BOM selection, especially since there was a readers guide in the back. I look forward to our discussion.
November 4, 2010
"Truth Be Told" by Victoria Christopher Murray is the perfect example of a person being made to sleep in the bed that they have made. Grace Monroe, the main character, has a picture-perfect life - a great family, a promising career and no visible problems - right off. She really has no complaints, but, when she finds out her husband has a child from another woman, she's force to deal with some issues she's kept in the past for way too long.
I mean...her husband forgiven her right...so, why is it so hard to forgive him? And, to top it all off, she's dealing with a self-proclaimed spiritual nut as a sister?
If you love reading about "real-life" issues, and having their issues solved in a practical way, you'll love this book. You'll be reading trying to hurry up and get to last word on the page so so you can turn it and read some mo'...
This book kept me interested the whole way through, and its main issue is one that we all seem to face sooner or later.
I give it 5 stars.
I mean...her husband forgiven her right...so, why is it so hard to forgive him? And, to top it all off, she's dealing with a self-proclaimed spiritual nut as a sister?
If you love reading about "real-life" issues, and having their issues solved in a practical way, you'll love this book. You'll be reading trying to hurry up and get to last word on the page so so you can turn it and read some mo'...
This book kept me interested the whole way through, and its main issue is one that we all seem to face sooner or later.
I give it 5 stars.
November 5, 2025
Excellent writing
Exceptional and enjoyable story! The author had me rapt in her characters' lives. So many experiences and messages in the narrative. The author kept my attention from start to ending!
Exceptional and enjoyable story! The author had me rapt in her characters' lives. So many experiences and messages in the narrative. The author kept my attention from start to ending!
December 29, 2025
Grace Monroe has just been elected as city councilwoman in Los Angeles as the book opens. She is celebrating her victory with her daughters Jayde & Amber, her husband Conner, and her mother Lilly. Conner and Grace are so happy and have such a blessed marriage. They are deeply in love and keep God in the forefront of their lives. They are extremely close to Conner's twin brother Chandler and his wife Devry. The only person that Grace seems to have an issue with is her sister Starlight. They seem to have opposing views of Starlight's occupation. She is a motivational speaker who basically presents the idea of placing yourself above all else in order to manifest your dreams and aspirations and Grace believes all things are possible through following God's teachings and having unwavering faith. They can't seem to see eye to eye and consequently have an adversary relationship. Although Grace and Conner's marriage seem perfect, Grace had committed adultery early on in their marriage with an old college boyfriend from the past. Not once but twice. Through marriage counseling, time, and constant prayer they were able to salvage their marriage. Now that Grace has won city council she's ready to take on her new role with a vengeance. Her goal as a Christian based politician is to get on the Education committee and advocate for no weapon and no drug policies as well as meeting with elected officials to get prayer back into the schools. She's driven and focused to launch into her appointed responsibilities but Conner gets some unexpected news from an old assistant that used to work for him that throws a wrench into his home life and happy marriage. Pilar Cruise, worked for Conner many years ago. Conner fashioned himself to be this innocent husband. Heartbroken by his wife's betrayal, he forgave her and forged forward in reconciliation, only to have had his own affair as a result of the mistrusted actions from Grace. Two wrongs don't make a right and Pilar has come back to LA from NY to tell Conner that they have a 12 year old son that was conceived from those transgressions. Along with that news, Pilar offers up the information that she is dying of AIDS and while her life has an expiration date that is vastly approaching, she needs Conner to step up and introduce their son to his father once and for all so that he may have a family once Pilar has become deceased. This is a heavy burden for Conner because now he has to tell his wife and his children that he has a son, with a women that is not their mother or his wife. To make matters worst, Pilar is white and none of her family would accept Solomon as a part of their family so he has no choice but to live with Conner once her life ends. Conner is torn about what to do, but he also has always wanted a son. Once Conner lays his eyes on Solomon there is no doubt, to him at least, that this is his flesh and blood. How will he ever explain this to Grace? It has to be done and so he lays it all out on the line. To say that Grace is displeased and upset is an understatement. Yes she had an affair too, but no child was conceived from it. How did he go this long holding that secret of his betrayal inside all those years, making it seem like she was the only one who was at fault? She was also angry that this woman was able to give her husband something that she couldn't. While Conner believed 100% that Solomon was his son, she needed the proof and a paternity test was done. Once confirmed that Conner was the father the plans were in motion that Solomon would live with Conner and Grace once his mother passed. Grace had a hard battle to overcome. On one hand she was upset with this woman for being with her husband when Pilar knew he was married, but she also was a mother herself and felt sorry that her child would have to grow up without his mother. Upon meeting Solomon, and a lot of talks and prayers to God, Grace slowly warmed up to the idea because Solomon was a very loveable child who seemed wise beyond his years. They eventually had to tell their daughters because Pilar was worsening and they had to move Pilar and Solomon to LA. Amber the youngest, took it well. She was ecstatic to have a brother but teenage Jayde was furious. How could her father betray her mother like that? Why did Solomon have to come live with them? Jayde was angry and became rebellious. Grace and Conner told Jayde she was going to have to find a way to deal with it without being rude and disrespectful. This was the situation and they were getting through it, making it happen and not getting a divorce. She was going to have to find a way to get past her anger, and she did eventually. Pilar told Grace that she wanted her to be Solomon's mom, that was her final wish. Treat him and love him like you do your daughters. Solomon took the death of his mother hard obviously but he was welcomed into a loving home with a family he didn't know he had. Did this private battle Grace was facing with her family impact her new career as council woman? She had to issue a public statement but asked the media to respect her family as they navigate these new circumstances. Once Pilar passed Grace realized that the little petty issues between her and Starlight really weren't that serious. Once the dust settled she wanted to make amends with her sister. Starlight had done a Revival at the arena for 10,000 people, for she was at the peak of her career. She had officially reached celebrity status. While at the Revival the arena collapsed. The arena was only supposed to house 8,000 people but Starlight and her assistant had paid good money to get some illegal permits in order to sell 10,000 tickets to maximize profits to one million dollars. Her greed cost Starlight her freedom but also the life of some innocent people. We have the right to God's grace, Grace told her sister. Pray and God will deliver you from trouble if it is meant to be and if she was truly not to blame for the incident. Grace was getting her house in order and getting her sister to believe and have faith. I enjoyed the book, I didn't feel like it was fast paced. Overall, it was a decent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2018
Whew... where to start. I was hoping to enjoy this book more because I am a HUGE fan of the author. Truth Be Told is a fantastical story. There are three main storylines- (1) Grace's relationship with her sister, Starlight (formerly know as Mabel); (2) Grace and her husband dealing with their indiscretions; (3) Starlight and her ministry. If "Starlight" sounds like a whore's name, it did to me as well. Initially I thought it was a silly name but I'm wondering if the author gave her this name- with all it's connotations- on purpose. Because it fits her and the situation she made for herself perfectly. So, why the 2-out-of-5 rating? The story moved extremely slow. The main character, Grace, was too self-righteous. None of the characters relationships with each other seemed genuine. It just didn't click for me. I am still looking forward to reading VCM's other titles.
September 2, 2020
1. Overall I enjoyed the book and liked the three main storylines: 1) Grace and Connor; 2) Grace and Starlight; and 3) Starlight, Lexington and her work as a motivational speaker.
2. I appreciate that all the characters in this novel were flawed. This book dealt with the issue of infidelity and forgiveness as a deep themes.
3. My least favorite character was Grace. She was a self-righteousness, judgmental and hypocritical. Although she was a victim because of her husband’s infidelity, she should have been willing to forgive more readily based on the fact that she committed adultery twice with her high school sweetheart. While I understand Grace’s issue with her sister’s livelihood, I didn’t understand why she cutoff their relationship. Overall, Grace handled the situation of accepting her husband’s illegitimate son into their family well.
4. Starlight (also known as Mabel) was a lost soul, who learned to manipulate women as a “new age” motivational speaker and conveniently sprinkled her messages with Christian scriptures to appeal to women in the church. I’m not certain that Starlight believed any of the concepts she taught. Regardless of what she believed, it was all about making money.
Some of Starlight’s personal struggle derived from her desire to have a relationship with her stepfather; however, he rejected her love and treated her differently from Grace. Starlight and Grace also had an unfortunate rivalry that was unhealthy for their relationship.
Starlight’s downfall was unfortunate and her demise came because of her greed and false witness. I felt like VCM did not completely finish Starlight’s story, I wanted more...
2. I appreciate that all the characters in this novel were flawed. This book dealt with the issue of infidelity and forgiveness as a deep themes.
3. My least favorite character was Grace. She was a self-righteousness, judgmental and hypocritical. Although she was a victim because of her husband’s infidelity, she should have been willing to forgive more readily based on the fact that she committed adultery twice with her high school sweetheart. While I understand Grace’s issue with her sister’s livelihood, I didn’t understand why she cutoff their relationship. Overall, Grace handled the situation of accepting her husband’s illegitimate son into their family well.
4. Starlight (also known as Mabel) was a lost soul, who learned to manipulate women as a “new age” motivational speaker and conveniently sprinkled her messages with Christian scriptures to appeal to women in the church. I’m not certain that Starlight believed any of the concepts she taught. Regardless of what she believed, it was all about making money.
Some of Starlight’s personal struggle derived from her desire to have a relationship with her stepfather; however, he rejected her love and treated her differently from Grace. Starlight and Grace also had an unfortunate rivalry that was unhealthy for their relationship.
Starlight’s downfall was unfortunate and her demise came because of her greed and false witness. I felt like VCM did not completely finish Starlight’s story, I wanted more...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2017
This is a book I read years ago and decided to revisit it. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. Enough time had passed to allow it to seem as though I were reading it for the first time. It was interesting to see how things have changed since this book was written.
February 2, 2017
It must have been a really good book. I can't remember it now but I have read it twice. 2/15/11 -2/19/11
August 28, 2022
Great book.
June 24, 2023
This was a good book about two sisters, who chose different paths. I liked how secrets played a big role in the story.
Read
October 14, 2023I got a bit confused about who was who and with whom, but interesting to read a book that gives the non-Christian characters the qualities I ascribe to evangelical Christian leaders.
Read
January 8, 2009The power of forgiveness
Here we meet The Monroe's from Los Angeles, Grace and Conner.
Grace is a newly elected councilwoman who's carefully being watched due to the fact that she's a Christian and used it as her platform. Grace has a number of ideas, one being returning prayer back inside public schools. Connor, who's a fraternal twin, has a successful law practice with his twin brother. The loving power-couple have two daughters Jayde, and Amber.
As Grace starts to work on implementing her education programs, it appears that the past is rearing its ugly head. Before Grace found out what it was to be one of "God's Children", she'd been involved in and on and off extra marital affair with her first love. Through time, love, and God, Connor and Grace were able to reroute their bumpy road and "dance through their storms!" BUT as the clouds slowly clear another storm lies in wait....
People of faith face real problems!
Connor's former assistant Pilar, who just one day disappeared, is back! As she reveals her reason for leaving, Connor has to face the fact that he's hidden his "OWN" demons from his marriage, and now it's time to reveal that secret, and deal with the consequences. As he searches for the words that might possibly destroy his family, Pilar constantly reminds him that there simply isn't enough time for him to adjust.
As Grace tries dealing with her husband's news, she's saddled with her adversary Sara who's just searching for anything to show the constituents that she wasn't right for the job.
Mabel; Grace's older and VERY competitive sister. She's a motivational speaker who has assumed the name Starlight. It appears that Starlight believes in the power of money, instead of the power of God.
And then there is Jayde, their 15-year-old-teenager. Her attitude and behavior have Grace contemplating child abuse.
Grace is slowly sinking in a never-ending bottom as she struggles with her faith as she's being tested in every way.
Will the Monroe's survive and thrive these latest challenges?
This is my first read by Victoria Christopher-Murray. My mother, and my "BESTESTEST" Lisa, are both fans and have read all of her previous work and the two of them consistently talked about how engaging this book was. How personal that it became. It's a very emotional read that truly electrifies you.
This book is AWESOME! Keep God in the lead of your life!
Here we meet The Monroe's from Los Angeles, Grace and Conner.
Grace is a newly elected councilwoman who's carefully being watched due to the fact that she's a Christian and used it as her platform. Grace has a number of ideas, one being returning prayer back inside public schools. Connor, who's a fraternal twin, has a successful law practice with his twin brother. The loving power-couple have two daughters Jayde, and Amber.
As Grace starts to work on implementing her education programs, it appears that the past is rearing its ugly head. Before Grace found out what it was to be one of "God's Children", she'd been involved in and on and off extra marital affair with her first love. Through time, love, and God, Connor and Grace were able to reroute their bumpy road and "dance through their storms!" BUT as the clouds slowly clear another storm lies in wait....
People of faith face real problems!
Connor's former assistant Pilar, who just one day disappeared, is back! As she reveals her reason for leaving, Connor has to face the fact that he's hidden his "OWN" demons from his marriage, and now it's time to reveal that secret, and deal with the consequences. As he searches for the words that might possibly destroy his family, Pilar constantly reminds him that there simply isn't enough time for him to adjust.
As Grace tries dealing with her husband's news, she's saddled with her adversary Sara who's just searching for anything to show the constituents that she wasn't right for the job.
Mabel; Grace's older and VERY competitive sister. She's a motivational speaker who has assumed the name Starlight. It appears that Starlight believes in the power of money, instead of the power of God.
And then there is Jayde, their 15-year-old-teenager. Her attitude and behavior have Grace contemplating child abuse.
Grace is slowly sinking in a never-ending bottom as she struggles with her faith as she's being tested in every way.
Will the Monroe's survive and thrive these latest challenges?
This is my first read by Victoria Christopher-Murray. My mother, and my "BESTESTEST" Lisa, are both fans and have read all of her previous work and the two of them consistently talked about how engaging this book was. How personal that it became. It's a very emotional read that truly electrifies you.
This book is AWESOME! Keep God in the lead of your life!
January 8, 2009
The Power of Forgiveness
Here we meet The Monroe's from Los Angeles, Grace and Conner.
Grace is a newly elected councilwoman who's carefully being watched due to the fact that she's a Christian and used it as her platform. Grace has a number of ideas, one being returning prayer back inside public schools. Connor, who's a fraternal twin, has a successful law practice with his twin brother. The loving, power-couple have two daughters Jayde and Amber.
As Grace starts to work on implementing her education programs, it appears that the past is rearing its ugly head. Before Grace found out what it was to be one of "God's Children", she'd been involved in and on and off extra marital affair with her first love. Through time, love and God, Connor and Grace were able to reroute their bumpy road and "dance through their storms!" BUT, as the clouds slowly clear, another storm lies in wait....
People of faith face real problems!
Connor's former assistant Pilar, who just one day disappeared, is back! As she reveals her reason for leaving, Connor has to face the fact that he's hidden his "OWN" demons from his marriage and now it's time to reveal that secret and deal with the consequences. As he searches for the words that might possibly destroy his family, Pilar constantly reminds him that there simply isn't enough time for him to adjust.
As Grace tries dealing with her husband's news, she's saddled with her adversary, Sara, who's just searching for anything to show the constituents that she wasn't right for the job.
Mabel,Grace's older and VERY competitive sister, is a motivational speaker who has assumed the name Starlight. It appears that Starlight believes in the power of money, instead of the power of God.
And then there is Jayde, their 15-year-old-teenager. Her attitude and behavior have Grace contemplating child abuse.
Grace is slowly sinking in a never-ending bottom as she struggles with her faith as she's being tested in every way.
Will the Monroe's be able survive and continue to thrive while dealing with these latest challenges?
This is my first read by Victoria Christopher-Murray. My mother and my "BESTESTEST," Lisa are both fans and have read all of her previous work. The two of them consistently talked about how engaging this book was. How personal that it became. Truthfully, TRUTH BE TOLD, is a very emotional read that electrifies you. Keep God in the lead of your life!
Here we meet The Monroe's from Los Angeles, Grace and Conner.
Grace is a newly elected councilwoman who's carefully being watched due to the fact that she's a Christian and used it as her platform. Grace has a number of ideas, one being returning prayer back inside public schools. Connor, who's a fraternal twin, has a successful law practice with his twin brother. The loving, power-couple have two daughters Jayde and Amber.
As Grace starts to work on implementing her education programs, it appears that the past is rearing its ugly head. Before Grace found out what it was to be one of "God's Children", she'd been involved in and on and off extra marital affair with her first love. Through time, love and God, Connor and Grace were able to reroute their bumpy road and "dance through their storms!" BUT, as the clouds slowly clear, another storm lies in wait....
People of faith face real problems!
Connor's former assistant Pilar, who just one day disappeared, is back! As she reveals her reason for leaving, Connor has to face the fact that he's hidden his "OWN" demons from his marriage and now it's time to reveal that secret and deal with the consequences. As he searches for the words that might possibly destroy his family, Pilar constantly reminds him that there simply isn't enough time for him to adjust.
As Grace tries dealing with her husband's news, she's saddled with her adversary, Sara, who's just searching for anything to show the constituents that she wasn't right for the job.
Mabel,Grace's older and VERY competitive sister, is a motivational speaker who has assumed the name Starlight. It appears that Starlight believes in the power of money, instead of the power of God.
And then there is Jayde, their 15-year-old-teenager. Her attitude and behavior have Grace contemplating child abuse.
Grace is slowly sinking in a never-ending bottom as she struggles with her faith as she's being tested in every way.
Will the Monroe's be able survive and continue to thrive while dealing with these latest challenges?
This is my first read by Victoria Christopher-Murray. My mother and my "BESTESTEST," Lisa are both fans and have read all of her previous work. The two of them consistently talked about how engaging this book was. How personal that it became. Truthfully, TRUTH BE TOLD, is a very emotional read that electrifies you. Keep God in the lead of your life!
September 29, 2014
If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow (Beyoncé Knowles, 2014). Victoria Christopher Murray’s Truth Be Told opened my eyes to the world of greed, intrusiveness, and carelessness I will be forced to enter once I am of age to be on my own. This Christian-Fiction novel truly spoke to me because I was able to feel the same way the main character felt as a result of her diction, dialogue, etc. I loved this book because it is almost as if it was non-fiction.Through the eyes of a vacillated woman, life could not be anymore arduous.
In this expeditious book, the author is trying to make me see two things: That no one is perfect, and that things are not always as they seem. Newly elected on a Christian platform, councilwoman Grace Monroe faces many different obstacles that manage to escalate into more difficult hindrances. These disincentives include the haunting of past dalliances, a burning rivalry with her sister, raising both naive and rebellious daughters, and a secret of her husband’s antiquity.
After reading this book, I’m still thinking about the absence of care and respect people have for one another. A golden line from this book for me is “...do you believe it would be right for you to maintain your position, especially as a Christian, when it is obvious there is a lack of morals in your home?...And is it true that you’ve had a number of extramarital affairs yet you ran under a Christian platform?” (361). It stuck out the most because I was appalled at how personal and insensitive the person’s comment was. They clearly did not care about the Monroe’s feelings when they spoke on the subject. In today’s world, it seems as if everyone has a dearth of deference.
To conclude, Truth Be Told definitely earns 5 stars from me, because it is pretty hard to keep someone like me entertained. I’m the type of person that likes crime and thriller genres, so I was quite surprised I took interest in a book such as this one; especially because I am still young, a sophomore in high school. Victoria Christopher Murray has truly won me over with this book because I was able to really get into the book. I got lost in every page, interested in how each character felt, why they acted the way they did, and what the outcome could be. I am excited to read more of her work….she may end up being my favorite author!
In this expeditious book, the author is trying to make me see two things: That no one is perfect, and that things are not always as they seem. Newly elected on a Christian platform, councilwoman Grace Monroe faces many different obstacles that manage to escalate into more difficult hindrances. These disincentives include the haunting of past dalliances, a burning rivalry with her sister, raising both naive and rebellious daughters, and a secret of her husband’s antiquity.
After reading this book, I’m still thinking about the absence of care and respect people have for one another. A golden line from this book for me is “...do you believe it would be right for you to maintain your position, especially as a Christian, when it is obvious there is a lack of morals in your home?...And is it true that you’ve had a number of extramarital affairs yet you ran under a Christian platform?” (361). It stuck out the most because I was appalled at how personal and insensitive the person’s comment was. They clearly did not care about the Monroe’s feelings when they spoke on the subject. In today’s world, it seems as if everyone has a dearth of deference.
To conclude, Truth Be Told definitely earns 5 stars from me, because it is pretty hard to keep someone like me entertained. I’m the type of person that likes crime and thriller genres, so I was quite surprised I took interest in a book such as this one; especially because I am still young, a sophomore in high school. Victoria Christopher Murray has truly won me over with this book because I was able to really get into the book. I got lost in every page, interested in how each character felt, why they acted the way they did, and what the outcome could be. I am excited to read more of her work….she may end up being my favorite author!
October 5, 2014
People talk about forgetting the past, moving on—Letting-It-Go. But what if the past won’t let you go? What do you do? For Grace Monroe, heroin of Victoria Christopher Murray’s Truth Be Told, the past is a nasty stain she can’t wipe away no matter what she does professionally, no matter her political strides. The past comes calling and she has no choice but to face it or be destroyed.
Grace seems to be the perfect wife. But as we delve into the novel, we see that she has made a pivotal mistake. She tries to move on but the error rears its head when a woman from her husband’s past returns with a package that won’t allow his history with her to be forgotten. How will Grace handle it?
The novel gives you many real life issues. Grace not only has to deal with the strain of her husband’s past. She also has to deal with her rocky relationship with her sister, Mabel. There’s a little bit of resentment there. Mabel—who has done things quite differently than Grace—seems to be more successful on the surface. The tension causes them to be short with each other. Cold. Distant. Almost condescending. Another past Grace can’t get away from.
As I read the novel, this theme of a nagging past kept appearing. Perhaps the past wouldn’t let go until Grace learned a lesson from it. Like ghosts that can’t rest until they deliver some message. Truth be told, the past, while sometimes painful, is a great educator, a professor providing nuggets for growth. Experience helps you either excel in an area or avoid making mistakes.
I enjoyed Murray’s treatment of the story, her voice and the way she captured real life.
Grace seems to be the perfect wife. But as we delve into the novel, we see that she has made a pivotal mistake. She tries to move on but the error rears its head when a woman from her husband’s past returns with a package that won’t allow his history with her to be forgotten. How will Grace handle it?
The novel gives you many real life issues. Grace not only has to deal with the strain of her husband’s past. She also has to deal with her rocky relationship with her sister, Mabel. There’s a little bit of resentment there. Mabel—who has done things quite differently than Grace—seems to be more successful on the surface. The tension causes them to be short with each other. Cold. Distant. Almost condescending. Another past Grace can’t get away from.
As I read the novel, this theme of a nagging past kept appearing. Perhaps the past wouldn’t let go until Grace learned a lesson from it. Like ghosts that can’t rest until they deliver some message. Truth be told, the past, while sometimes painful, is a great educator, a professor providing nuggets for growth. Experience helps you either excel in an area or avoid making mistakes.
I enjoyed Murray’s treatment of the story, her voice and the way she captured real life.
August 31, 2014
5 stars ***** out of 5
Historical Romance
Escape with Carol Cox to Arizona Territory, 1963, to life in busy Granite Springs. I love Arizona, spending months there every winter, and I know the books I read about the region will enrich my view of the area. Carol weaves a story so rich in history, vivid imagery and realistic characters, I forgot that though based on fact, this was fiction. Carol tells the story through the unique position of a young woman trying to fill her editor-father's large shoes in a community she has only visited the last number of years. The twists and turns led all over the area, and had me guessing and turning pages until the end. I wonder, how well do we know those near and dear to us? Well enough to trust that what we do know about them is true, or when we hear something do we second guess what we know? This is another great novel by Carol.
I received this book free from Bethany House and Emily Davies-Robinson through their Nuts About Books program in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
Historical Romance
Escape with Carol Cox to Arizona Territory, 1963, to life in busy Granite Springs. I love Arizona, spending months there every winter, and I know the books I read about the region will enrich my view of the area. Carol weaves a story so rich in history, vivid imagery and realistic characters, I forgot that though based on fact, this was fiction. Carol tells the story through the unique position of a young woman trying to fill her editor-father's large shoes in a community she has only visited the last number of years. The twists and turns led all over the area, and had me guessing and turning pages until the end. I wonder, how well do we know those near and dear to us? Well enough to trust that what we do know about them is true, or when we hear something do we second guess what we know? This is another great novel by Carol.
I received this book free from Bethany House and Emily Davies-Robinson through their Nuts About Books program in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
May 13, 2014
Not as good as I thought it would be.
Not as good as I thought it would be.
This book started out good but by the third chapter it became very predictable. Murray is a good writer but I'm not sure what happened in this novel. it's like the story had no where to go. I can't stand predictable stories with no twists or turns of REALITY !!! This novel was very UNrealistic to say the least. A typical fairytale with a "Happy Ever After " ending. Except one family member who was out of place in the story line. I suppose the RELIGIOUS aspect of the book is why this person was in there. The book seemed very long and boring by the middle. I could not wait for it to end.
Not as good as I thought it would be.
This book started out good but by the third chapter it became very predictable. Murray is a good writer but I'm not sure what happened in this novel. it's like the story had no where to go. I can't stand predictable stories with no twists or turns of REALITY !!! This novel was very UNrealistic to say the least. A typical fairytale with a "Happy Ever After " ending. Except one family member who was out of place in the story line. I suppose the RELIGIOUS aspect of the book is why this person was in there. The book seemed very long and boring by the middle. I could not wait for it to end.
August 11, 2012
Truth Be Told is not your ordinary Christian Fiction novel. Far from preachy, Victoria Christopher Murray has crafted a page turner that takes you on a spiritual journey into the lives of Grace and Conner, a well-to-do African American couple who seem to have everything perfect, until a secret surfaces and threatens to shatter their marriage and test their faith. Although the plot is a staple in many books, Murray adds a fresh twist of faith that will keep the attention of her readers. Mrs. Christoper Murray has indeed mastered the art of contemporary ministering through story-telling.
January 13, 2015
Two sundays ago my pastor was talking about the false word that alot of people hear and live by. This is exactly what her sister was doing in this book. She was twisting the truth into a lie to gain worth. The book was so true in so many ways. Out of this book I receive the message that Christians are human and they are going to make mistakes. But it's all about forgiveness. If God can forgive each and everyone of us. We should be able to do the same. This is a must read for everyone.
July 2, 2015
Ending the book with Starlight going to jail didn't provide an efficient closing. It didn't answer whether or not Starlight understood the error of her ways, what happened to her assistant, Lexington, and did Sara get her devious ways interrupted. I love the focal point of faith but didn't like the fact that Grace held her husband, at first, to a different standard knowing she'd been unfaithful with the same man multiple times. Bottom line is faith conquers all.
January 21, 2011
Well written story about forgiveness and learning to appreciate the forgiveness that we've been given. I thought it got a long-winded in places but it was an enjoyable read with likeable characters. I appreciated their focus on relying on God during the bad AND good times.
July 7, 2012
I really enjoy reading Victoria Murray's books. She always brings the drama. Although there were a few spots where I was saying to so myself, Nope, couldn't have been me...But I see why she always went in the direction that she chose. Good book.
April 27, 2007
vivid characters...excellent read. Great Author
September 29, 2007
This is a great read. It opens your eyes to what can and does really happen in todays society.
June 20, 2008
I love this author!!
June 23, 2008
Very deep book. Touched on the importance of having God in your life.
Strong black woman, going against all odds.
Dig it
Strong black woman, going against all odds.
Dig it
July 8, 2008
Enjoyed but not a quick read. Just bought on a whim.
Read
August 7, 2008This is definitly one of those books that makes you say "What would I do in that situation?"
May 31, 2011
Very good read. A little different then the urban books I am used to reading.
December 18, 2011
It was really good and very surprising.
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