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Long Time Coming
Deidre Clark-Morris is a faithful Christian who has everything she could dream of, except the children her heart longs for. Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her life. She has three children by three different men and has just been diagnosed with inoperable cancer. While the meeting between these two women appears accidental, it becomes their catalyst of hope. Neither woman expects the blessing that God has in store for her. While Deidre guides Kenisha on the path to eternal life with Jesus Christ, Kenisha teaches Deidre how to stand strong against the storms of life.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2010
132 people are currently reading
1536 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Miller
100 books793 followersVanessa Miller is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, playwright, and motivational speaker. She started writing as a child, spending countless hours either reading or writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels. Vanessa’s creative endeavors took on new meaning in1994 when she became a Christian. Since then, her writing has been centered on themes of redemption, often focusing on characters facing multi-dimensional struggles.
Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained minister in her church, explaining, “God has called me to minister to readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
· Essence Bestsellers’ List March 2008; May 2008 (Former Rain)
· Essence Bestsellers’ List September 2008 (Rain Storm)
· Black Expressions Book Club Alternate Selection 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
· #1 Ebook for fiction on Amazon.com November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
· #1 on BCNN/BCBC Bestsellers’ List November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
She has worked with numerous publishers: Urban Christian, Kimani Romance, Abingdon Press and Whitaker House. She is currently working on Something Good with Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins) which releases in March 2022.
In 2016, Vanessa launched the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat in an effort to bring readers and authors of Christian fiction together in an environment that’s all about Faith, Fun & Fellowship. To learn more about Vanessa, please visit her website: www.vanessamiller.com. If you would like to know more about the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat that is currently held in Charlotte, NC during the last week in October you can visit: http://www.christianbookloversretreat...
Vanessa lives in North Carolina with her husband and family. She graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication.
Most of Vanessa’s published novels depict characters that are lost and in need of redemption. The books have received countless favorable reviews.
“. . . Heartwarming, drama-packed and tender in just the right places.”—Romantic Times Book Review.
“Recommended for readers of redemption stories.” –Library Journal.
www.vanessamiller.com
Don’t forget to join my mailing list:
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Join me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/vanessamiller01
Website: www.vanessamiller.com
Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained minister in her church, explaining, “God has called me to minister to readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
· Essence Bestsellers’ List March 2008; May 2008 (Former Rain)
· Essence Bestsellers’ List September 2008 (Rain Storm)
· Black Expressions Book Club Alternate Selection 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
· #1 Ebook for fiction on Amazon.com November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
· #1 on BCNN/BCBC Bestsellers’ List November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
She has worked with numerous publishers: Urban Christian, Kimani Romance, Abingdon Press and Whitaker House. She is currently working on Something Good with Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins) which releases in March 2022.
In 2016, Vanessa launched the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat in an effort to bring readers and authors of Christian fiction together in an environment that’s all about Faith, Fun & Fellowship. To learn more about Vanessa, please visit her website: www.vanessamiller.com. If you would like to know more about the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat that is currently held in Charlotte, NC during the last week in October you can visit: http://www.christianbookloversretreat...
Vanessa lives in North Carolina with her husband and family. She graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication.
Most of Vanessa’s published novels depict characters that are lost and in need of redemption. The books have received countless favorable reviews.
“. . . Heartwarming, drama-packed and tender in just the right places.”—Romantic Times Book Review.
“Recommended for readers of redemption stories.” –Library Journal.
www.vanessamiller.com
Don’t forget to join my mailing list:
http://www.vanessamiller.com/events-j...
Join me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author-Vanes...
Join me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorvanes...
Join me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/vanessamiller01
Website: www.vanessamiller.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 7, 2011
Betrayed, this is often how Kenisha Smalls could describe her life, from the time she was six years old, she found out that life was not kind to her. A little girl in the projects, being molested by a step daddy, a momma who accused her of trying to steal that man, and then staying drunk all the time. A sister who dies at the hand of a beater. A baby at fifteen, and two more, for a total of three children by the time she was twenty one years old. Yes Kenisha Smalls can definitely say that life has betrayed her, but the ultimate betrayal is coming, when she finds herself twenty three years old and dying of cancer, who will take care of her children?
Deidre Clark-Morris, loves kids. She works is a school principal, and all her married life she dreams of being a mother. But a deep secret that she has known since she was a teenager, keeps her from conceiving. The sad part is she has kept the secret from her loving husband, and now seven years later she is sure that telling him, will rip their marriage apart.
Two women from totally different walks of life, with totally different views of life, thrown together by an illness no one can control. Will they become friends and will they be able to help each other through these hard times?
This beautiful story of God's grace and love will move you to tears, your heart will be broken over this as you read, but you will come away feeling refreshed. (no reveals here) Definitely a book you NEED to read! Vanessa Miller has written a book that is life changing, not only for the characters in the story, but it will change you as you read it! 301 pages US $14.99 5 stars.
This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.
July 8, 2015
’m thankful to have received a review copy of this bitter-sweet novel which reminded me of the Good Samaritan bible story. It’s also a book filled with the message of forgiveness, sacrifice and God’s love for us and others. The author quickly captures the readers’ attention and heart, while setting the tone of the novel from the beginning. “Twenty-three and played out. Like the words of a tired, old, blues song, Kenisha Smalls had been strung and rung out….and too young to give up.”
Deidre had a run in with Kenisha at the school she worked at when she was late to pick up her son. Deidre threatened to call social services. Deidre hated to see parents mistreat their children. They took them for granted and didn’t realize the precious gift they had. Kenisha clams up, Deidre has judged her and soon realizes that this woman wouldn’t believe the truth if she told it to her.
Deidre and her husband had tried for years to have children, but after seven years God had not blessed her womb. Was God punishing her? Deidre had a secret not even her husband, Johnson a military man who worked hard and loved the Lord, knew about. Could she tell her husband what she hid in her heart? Is that what God wanted?
Miller does a great job of setting the mood and placing readers into the skin of her characters:
Jumping in the shower, she allowed the hot water to assault her weary bones. As the steam filled the small bathroom, she wallowed in the horror story her life had become. What next? How much can happen to a person before the almighty decides it’s time to pick on someone else?
That’s how Kenisha sees God. He hadn’t been there for her when all the bad things happened, and He isn’t there now.
Deidre feels drawn to this woman and her family,”She had certainly learned that some of life’s journeys were simply too great for her, and she needed to lean on the Lord to get through them. Just as God had sent an angel to strengthen Elijah, Deirdre knew that her husband Johnson had been her angel, sent from heaven above. He had helped her move past the pain, and now she wanted to do the same for Kenisha.”
Deidre and Kenisha are the most unlikely people to become friends. It’s made possible after Deidre apologizes for judging her and wants to be there for her. Deidre says, “We all suffer from something, Kenisha. That’s a part of life-since evil has come into the world, God has no choice but to let things play out, so we can choose good over evil!...So, accepting good over evil is more like accepting God into your heart.” That was the first step.
I enjoyed the journey this novel took me on even though it had a predictable ending. There were many gold nuggets and fun moments along the way. I look forward to reading more of Vanessa Millers’ books.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Deidre had a run in with Kenisha at the school she worked at when she was late to pick up her son. Deidre threatened to call social services. Deidre hated to see parents mistreat their children. They took them for granted and didn’t realize the precious gift they had. Kenisha clams up, Deidre has judged her and soon realizes that this woman wouldn’t believe the truth if she told it to her.
Deidre and her husband had tried for years to have children, but after seven years God had not blessed her womb. Was God punishing her? Deidre had a secret not even her husband, Johnson a military man who worked hard and loved the Lord, knew about. Could she tell her husband what she hid in her heart? Is that what God wanted?
Miller does a great job of setting the mood and placing readers into the skin of her characters:
Jumping in the shower, she allowed the hot water to assault her weary bones. As the steam filled the small bathroom, she wallowed in the horror story her life had become. What next? How much can happen to a person before the almighty decides it’s time to pick on someone else?
That’s how Kenisha sees God. He hadn’t been there for her when all the bad things happened, and He isn’t there now.
Deidre feels drawn to this woman and her family,”She had certainly learned that some of life’s journeys were simply too great for her, and she needed to lean on the Lord to get through them. Just as God had sent an angel to strengthen Elijah, Deirdre knew that her husband Johnson had been her angel, sent from heaven above. He had helped her move past the pain, and now she wanted to do the same for Kenisha.”
Deidre and Kenisha are the most unlikely people to become friends. It’s made possible after Deidre apologizes for judging her and wants to be there for her. Deidre says, “We all suffer from something, Kenisha. That’s a part of life-since evil has come into the world, God has no choice but to let things play out, so we can choose good over evil!...So, accepting good over evil is more like accepting God into your heart.” That was the first step.
I enjoyed the journey this novel took me on even though it had a predictable ending. There were many gold nuggets and fun moments along the way. I look forward to reading more of Vanessa Millers’ books.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
March 17, 2013
A heartfelt story that touched me and kept me turning the pages until the end. My heart warmed at God's ,forgiveness.
February 15, 2012
This book was absolutely outstanding! This story grabbed me right from the very first page and never let me go. My heart was breaking for these two women more and more with every turn of the page.
The two main characters - Deidre and Kenisha could not be any more different from each other!
Deidre - School principle, proper, happily married, beautiful house, but desperately wants to have a child.
Kenisha - Poor, smart mouthed and sassy, has 3 children she can hardly take care of and no husband to help her.
Both women have forsaken God in different ways and for different reasons. Deidre thinks God isn't answering her prayers for a child. Kenisha lost a sister to murder, a brother to drug addiction, and found out she has cancer - she has no use for God in her life.
This story is so raw and heartbreakingly real. I felt so close to the characters I had to keep reminding myself that this is Fiction. I do not know these people! So many things are happening in Kenisha's life you may wonder if it seems unreal, but it is so real. I know that there are people, women, out there that have very sad lives like this.
This is not your traditional "love story/Romance" but to me it was very much a love story.
It was about - the love between Deidre and her Husband and how he still supported her even after 7 longs years of no children.
- the love between Kenisha and her children. As poor as she was and having the life that she was delt, she was still an excellent mother and really loved her kids!
- the love between two women from such different worlds who bond together and support each other and end up "loving each other".
- and finally the love of God! How these two women came to know God's love together.
I can not say enough good things about this book! I absolutely loved it. This will go down as one of my favorites of the year. And - Vanessa Miller - this will not be the last book of yours I read! That is a promise!
The two main characters - Deidre and Kenisha could not be any more different from each other!
Deidre - School principle, proper, happily married, beautiful house, but desperately wants to have a child.
Kenisha - Poor, smart mouthed and sassy, has 3 children she can hardly take care of and no husband to help her.
Both women have forsaken God in different ways and for different reasons. Deidre thinks God isn't answering her prayers for a child. Kenisha lost a sister to murder, a brother to drug addiction, and found out she has cancer - she has no use for God in her life.
This story is so raw and heartbreakingly real. I felt so close to the characters I had to keep reminding myself that this is Fiction. I do not know these people! So many things are happening in Kenisha's life you may wonder if it seems unreal, but it is so real. I know that there are people, women, out there that have very sad lives like this.
This is not your traditional "love story/Romance" but to me it was very much a love story.
It was about - the love between Deidre and her Husband and how he still supported her even after 7 longs years of no children.
- the love between Kenisha and her children. As poor as she was and having the life that she was delt, she was still an excellent mother and really loved her kids!
- the love between two women from such different worlds who bond together and support each other and end up "loving each other".
- and finally the love of God! How these two women came to know God's love together.
I can not say enough good things about this book! I absolutely loved it. This will go down as one of my favorites of the year. And - Vanessa Miller - this will not be the last book of yours I read! That is a promise!
June 13, 2022
This is a feel good story. A teacher (Christian) and a student's terminally ill mother strike up a unconventional friendship. The teacher longs for children, but can't have. The ill mother has 3 children by 3 different men. She has no idea what will happen to them when she passes away. She doesn't want them going to their fathers or her family. The teacher helps the mom see that God loves her and never left her. It was free on audible.
January 5, 2011
Long Time Coming is a remarkable story of one woman's struggle to find her children security and another woman's passion to help them. Deidre Clark-Morris is a Christian woman trying to conceive a child with her devoted husband. Deidre also struggles with vital information she has never disclosed to her husband. Will he stand by Deidre once her secret is revealed?
Kenisha Small is a young mother struggling to provide for her three children. Kenisha does not have reliable family members, but that has not stopped her from being a good mother. After a doctor visit, Kenisha receives some disturbing news that will change her family's lives forever.
Deidre and Kenisha meet by chance and a unique bond is formed. The two women lean on each other when the going gets rough and will ultimately bless each other when they least expect it.
I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason. Long Time Coming is an inspirational book about learning to help others in need and learning to accept a helping hand. It is a book of testimony that will bring tears to readers' eyes. I felt frustration, helpless, and even triumph once I made to the end of this exceptional book. The author writing style has touched me like never before and I cannot wait to her next installment. I definitely recommend this book to others.
Teresa Beasley
A&R Book Corner
A&RBC Rating: 5
Amazon Rating: 5
Kenisha Small is a young mother struggling to provide for her three children. Kenisha does not have reliable family members, but that has not stopped her from being a good mother. After a doctor visit, Kenisha receives some disturbing news that will change her family's lives forever.
Deidre and Kenisha meet by chance and a unique bond is formed. The two women lean on each other when the going gets rough and will ultimately bless each other when they least expect it.
I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason. Long Time Coming is an inspirational book about learning to help others in need and learning to accept a helping hand. It is a book of testimony that will bring tears to readers' eyes. I felt frustration, helpless, and even triumph once I made to the end of this exceptional book. The author writing style has touched me like never before and I cannot wait to her next installment. I definitely recommend this book to others.
Teresa Beasley
A&R Book Corner
A&RBC Rating: 5
Amazon Rating: 5
January 3, 2011
Title: LONG TIME COMING
Author: Vanessa Miller
Publisher: Abingdon Press
October 2010
ISBN: 978-1-4267-0768-1
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Deidre Clark-Morris and her husband, Johnson, have longed for children, trying to have them for many years. Deidre has a successful career, but her life would be complete if God gave her children.
Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her life. She has gone from man to man and has children fathered by three different one. Now she’s been diagnosed with cervical cancer.
When Deidre and Kenisha meet, they are not the best of friends. Deidre thinks Kenisha is a bad mom for forgetting to pick her son up, and Kenisha thinks Deidre is a rich woman who has no right to judge her. And Deidre doesn’t initially believe Kenisha’s claims of cancer.
But soon these two women start forging an unlikely friendship. As Deidre tries to introduce Kenisha to God, Kenisha tries to teach Deidre how to stand strong.
LONG TIME COMING is the first book I’ve read by this author. This is a story set around African-American characters, and the terminology used is definitely in their conversation style.
The story is heartbreakingly realistic as I’ve known people in both situations. I felt for both of them. I kind of figured where this story would go just from reading the back cover copy, so the story line is no big surprise, but it was a pleasant reading journey as they went from start to finish. $14.99. 305 pages.
Author: Vanessa Miller
Publisher: Abingdon Press
October 2010
ISBN: 978-1-4267-0768-1
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Deidre Clark-Morris and her husband, Johnson, have longed for children, trying to have them for many years. Deidre has a successful career, but her life would be complete if God gave her children.
Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her life. She has gone from man to man and has children fathered by three different one. Now she’s been diagnosed with cervical cancer.
When Deidre and Kenisha meet, they are not the best of friends. Deidre thinks Kenisha is a bad mom for forgetting to pick her son up, and Kenisha thinks Deidre is a rich woman who has no right to judge her. And Deidre doesn’t initially believe Kenisha’s claims of cancer.
But soon these two women start forging an unlikely friendship. As Deidre tries to introduce Kenisha to God, Kenisha tries to teach Deidre how to stand strong.
LONG TIME COMING is the first book I’ve read by this author. This is a story set around African-American characters, and the terminology used is definitely in their conversation style.
The story is heartbreakingly realistic as I’ve known people in both situations. I felt for both of them. I kind of figured where this story would go just from reading the back cover copy, so the story line is no big surprise, but it was a pleasant reading journey as they went from start to finish. $14.99. 305 pages.
December 21, 2011
I read this book because it was a free Kindle read. I liked it for a number of other reasons. Vanessa did a great job developing her characters. They were real and I could feel their pain and anger and hurt. I also felt like it was very true to life. Writing about highly disfunctional families must be harder than painting beautiful pictures of perfect "have it all together" families. She did a great job in her contrast of the two families. One family with enconomic/educational advantages versus the family falling apart at the seams. Yet she did such a vivid picture of every family having it's own strugles. I liked her application of forgiveness being so necessary. I appreciated the view of God not having a blind eye when really bad things happen to children or good people. Good idea to occasionally offer a free book as a carrot held out before the donkey. Was a sweet carrot and I will be back for another. Thanks!
August 10, 2013
This was an awesome story. It took me two days to read it because I cried so much that I had to put it down. The characters had their issues but it seems that they all found their way in the end. I would recommend this book to anyone that have lost the faith and think that God has given up on them.
Vanessa Milker truly knows how to draw you in and keep you there.
Vanessa Milker truly knows how to draw you in and keep you there.
July 24, 2024
I read this book over 10 years ago. I think about it from time-to-time and recommend it to people. I still remember sobbing at the end.
December 10, 2012
I'm becoming a fan of Vanessa Miller. The ending had me in tears in a totally bittersweet way.
November 25, 2019
Kenisha was diagnosed with cancer and she had three children, 1 boy and 2 girls. She was trying to find a family to adopt her children because she didn't want them in the system because she found a family to take the girls and this single guy to take her song.
But her son Jamal principal Deidra was getting ready to report her to the authority because she didn't pick up her son and she had to take him home with her., but she told her about her condition.
They became like friends and Deidra tried to help her any way she could. She grew to love Kenisha children and her husband mentioned about adopting a baby.
Kenisha was mad with God because she felt he didn't hear her prayers out of everything she had been through and now she has to deal with leaving her children for some one else to see.about.
Deidra prayed for so long to have a baby but they had been trying for seven years with out any luck.
But keep the faith because God do answer prayers if we pray sincerely from the heart.
But her son Jamal principal Deidra was getting ready to report her to the authority because she didn't pick up her son and she had to take him home with her., but she told her about her condition.
They became like friends and Deidra tried to help her any way she could. She grew to love Kenisha children and her husband mentioned about adopting a baby.
Kenisha was mad with God because she felt he didn't hear her prayers out of everything she had been through and now she has to deal with leaving her children for some one else to see.about.
Deidra prayed for so long to have a baby but they had been trying for seven years with out any luck.
But keep the faith because God do answer prayers if we pray sincerely from the heart.
February 27, 2024
This one pulled on several emotions:
Anger
Happy
Tears
Disappointment
Hope
I was biased from the beginning. As I read it hit me how accurate portrayal it was to real life. As I reflected on the perpetual cycle of abuse, teen pregnancies, drug & alcohol abuse, molestation and a host of other social issues that’s impacting the lives our sons and daughters. Heartbreaking, once I put on a different lens. I was so hopeful for Kinesha, James, Jamal, Diamond, and Kennedi. The author nailed the ongoing daily life of several relatives and I found myself praying for real families in similar situations.
Anger
Happy
Tears
Disappointment
Hope
I was biased from the beginning. As I read it hit me how accurate portrayal it was to real life. As I reflected on the perpetual cycle of abuse, teen pregnancies, drug & alcohol abuse, molestation and a host of other social issues that’s impacting the lives our sons and daughters. Heartbreaking, once I put on a different lens. I was so hopeful for Kinesha, James, Jamal, Diamond, and Kennedi. The author nailed the ongoing daily life of several relatives and I found myself praying for real families in similar situations.
February 13, 2025
I had this book on my Kindle for over ten years, and I finally got around to reading it. I like Vanessa Miller as an author, and I can see how much her writing has evolved over the years. This was a sweet and heartfelt story, touching on faith, redemption, and second chances. The characters had compelling backstories, however, the story was pretty predictable, and the conflicts wrapped up a little too neatly. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, especially for fans of faith-based fiction, but it didn’t leave a lasting impact. I’m glad I finally read it, but it’s not my favorite from Vanessa Miller.
June 10, 2017
This is the story about a single mom who gets cancer and needs to find someone to take in her three kids before she dies. She meets a lady who has been struggling with infertility who is able to open her heart the children. This the wrong book to read when I did, because I had a doctor's appointment the next day. I cried and cried as I read it and then I had nightmares all night. So, hence the 3 stars. It's actually a good book.
November 13, 2017
I think this is the first book I've read in many years that had me actually crying for one of the main characters who experienced many physical and emotional trials. The author, Vanessa Miller, has a writing talent that can pull in the reader to make one feel like we are right there with the characters. Ms Miller does such a wonderful job of also describing each character and their strengths as well as their flaws. Bravo!
March 26, 2022
I loved the relationships between the sisters and how they saw themselves and each other. I loved how they tried to keep their promise to the Mother by talking to each other about their secrets. Some of the revelations were painful to hear (listened on Audible) but the ending was amazing. My favorite part was when Stella almost fainted the casket and Lincoln caught her. This still brings tears to my eyes. Great heart warming story!
March 25, 2018
Great Read
I love a good inspirational story with a good loving but hard nosed people to follow. Very well written. Kudos!
I love a good inspirational story with a good loving but hard nosed people to follow. Very well written. Kudos!
July 12, 2019
This was an old free book on my Nook that I thought I’d read. The plot was ok but too religious for me. Didn’t realize it was Christian fiction. I skimmed through all the preachy stuff.
Read
April 27, 2020I loved this book. Very inspirational. It would make a great movie!
June 3, 2020
I love Vanessa Millers books because there is so much scripture incorporated , so I am always learning something new , while enjoying the read # Gifted author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2022
Loved It!!
This book was so touching it made me smile and cry the story is so realistic i enjoyed from beginning to end!
This book was so touching it made me smile and cry the story is so realistic i enjoyed from beginning to end!
May 29, 2023
3.5 stars
A poignant reminder that God answers prayers, even if it doesn't always turn out the way we'd hoped. This was a bittersweet story that will remind you of God's sovereignty.
A poignant reminder that God answers prayers, even if it doesn't always turn out the way we'd hoped. This was a bittersweet story that will remind you of God's sovereignty.
November 9, 2023
must read
This book is written amazingly. To see the compassion these two women learned towards each other, softens my heart. I have faith!
This book is written amazingly. To see the compassion these two women learned towards each other, softens my heart. I have faith!
November 20, 2023
This has been in my Nook library since March 2014.
It is a touching, emotionally moving book that may be suitable for a book discussion for some Bible study groups.
It is a touching, emotionally moving book that may be suitable for a book discussion for some Bible study groups.
Read
December 28, 2024Excellent Read!!
July 25, 2021
1. True rating 4.5 stars.
2. The voice actor Je Nie Fleming provided a 4 star performance. I believe this is my second time listening to this voice actor.
3. This is the first book I read by Vanessa Miller. Her writing style is simplistic and straightforward which afforded a clear, concise and beautiful storyline. The plot was predictable and there were not any unforeseen twists or surprises. The novel explores the topics of unbelief, deceit by omission, forgiveness and bareness.
4. Deidre and Johnson Morris are a married couple equally yoked in faith. However, after seven years of marriage, Deidre remains barren due to a condition known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Deidre knew about her condition as a teenager, and was informed that she may never be able to conceive children. Because of Johnson’s eagerness to have a home full of children prior to their nuptials, Deidre never disclosed her condition.
5. Kenisha Smalls is a single mother of three children struggling to make ends meet. Her plight becomes more untenable when she was diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer, and unfortunately Kenisha did not have a reliable family support system.
6. Deidre and Kenisha’s paths intersect when Jamal (Kenisha’s son) is neglected by his aunt and left at school. Although the women are from different social classes, they form a friendship and unknowingly help each other grow spiritually.
7. I used the word bareness instead of infertility in this storyline because God allowed Deidre to go through a period of seven years without the ability to conceive. In the Bible three of the four matriarchs, Hannah and Elizabeth were barren for a period of time, however, there was a divine purpose for each situation. In the same manner, God allowed Deidre and her husband to endure a seven year period of infertility to ensure greater purpose was fulfilled.
2. The voice actor Je Nie Fleming provided a 4 star performance. I believe this is my second time listening to this voice actor.
3. This is the first book I read by Vanessa Miller. Her writing style is simplistic and straightforward which afforded a clear, concise and beautiful storyline. The plot was predictable and there were not any unforeseen twists or surprises. The novel explores the topics of unbelief, deceit by omission, forgiveness and bareness.
4. Deidre and Johnson Morris are a married couple equally yoked in faith. However, after seven years of marriage, Deidre remains barren due to a condition known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Deidre knew about her condition as a teenager, and was informed that she may never be able to conceive children. Because of Johnson’s eagerness to have a home full of children prior to their nuptials, Deidre never disclosed her condition.
5. Kenisha Smalls is a single mother of three children struggling to make ends meet. Her plight becomes more untenable when she was diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer, and unfortunately Kenisha did not have a reliable family support system.
6. Deidre and Kenisha’s paths intersect when Jamal (Kenisha’s son) is neglected by his aunt and left at school. Although the women are from different social classes, they form a friendship and unknowingly help each other grow spiritually.
7. I used the word bareness instead of infertility in this storyline because God allowed Deidre to go through a period of seven years without the ability to conceive. In the Bible three of the four matriarchs, Hannah and Elizabeth were barren for a period of time, however, there was a divine purpose for each situation. In the same manner, God allowed Deidre and her husband to endure a seven year period of infertility to ensure greater purpose was fulfilled.
November 8, 2010
When Deirdre and Kenisha first meet it seems like they have nothing in common, but circumstances conspire to bring them together and build a surprising friendship. Deirdre is a high school principal with a lovely husband, but she's depressed because a medical condition has left her unable to have children. Kenisha is scraping through life as a single mother on benefits, having birthed three children to three different fathers, and has just been diagnosed with inoperable cervical cancer. Deirdre initially stereotypes Kenisha, thinking that it's impossible for such a woman to be a good mother, but she finds herself drawn to her son, Jamal. When Jamal calls Deirdre for help when his mother becomes ill, she begins to see Kenisha for who she really is and finds herself called to help her. But it may well be Kenisha who ends up helping her...
This is the first book I've read from the author, and also my first foray into the African-American genre. As far as I know, we don't have any race-specific genres in Britain, and although I've read some excellent books by black authors such as Dorothy Koomson and Malorie Blackman, I know that they don't specifically aim their books at a certain race. For this, I'm quite please as I doubt there's anyone out there aiming books at someone who is half Scottish, three-eighths English and one-eighth Indian! However, I throughly enjoyed this book and truly don't think that you have to be African-American in order to read it.
This book will really pull at your heartstrings, as would any story about someone in their twenties dying of cancer. I really felt for Kenisha and her anguish at leaving her children without a mother. Although there were a few moments where I had tears in my eyes, I wouldn't say that this is a depressing book. The way that Kenisha and Deirdre helped each other deal with their problems was incredibly uplifting. Each of them made judgements about the other but were able to overcome these in order to become friends and support each other. The character dynamics in this story were excellent, and Kenisha's children were adorable. I always find that children brighten up a story!
I did have a few problems with this book, namely in the last third. Although I really enjoy Christian fiction, I felt that a lot of this story focused on Deirdre trying to convert Kenisha and in some places it almost came across in a "Bible-bashing" manner, where Deirdre felt that conversion was more important than simply being there for her friend and letting God shine through her actions. I'm a firm believer of showing Christ to people through the way you speak and act, and waiting for them to ask you questions, rather than trying to talk about God all the time. This was mainly present in the last third of the book, and although it didn't make me dislike it, I do feel that it brings my rating down a bit. I also found the epilogue incredibly cheesy! I do like a happy ending but this overdid it a bit.
Although I felt that this novel had its faults, I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for unconventional Christian fiction. Kenisha isn't your typical heroine, but she's incredibly endearing and you'll find yourself rooting for her to let go of the past and to find peace with everyone in her life. I found it more difficult to relate to Deirdre as I felt that she'd caused so many of the issues she had in her life, but it was excellent seeing her grow as a character, and watching her overcome stereotypes and judgements in order to become friends with Kenisha. I also appreciate that the author felt brave enough to deal with so many popular issues in our society - drug addiction, single-parenthood, alcoholism, poverty, death, cancer, street crime, infertility - and that she did so in a tactful manner. So many Christian novels focus on "safe" topics, so I admire Vanessa Miller for stepping out of the mould. Definitely an author to watch! 8/10
Many thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this book.
This is the first book I've read from the author, and also my first foray into the African-American genre. As far as I know, we don't have any race-specific genres in Britain, and although I've read some excellent books by black authors such as Dorothy Koomson and Malorie Blackman, I know that they don't specifically aim their books at a certain race. For this, I'm quite please as I doubt there's anyone out there aiming books at someone who is half Scottish, three-eighths English and one-eighth Indian! However, I throughly enjoyed this book and truly don't think that you have to be African-American in order to read it.
This book will really pull at your heartstrings, as would any story about someone in their twenties dying of cancer. I really felt for Kenisha and her anguish at leaving her children without a mother. Although there were a few moments where I had tears in my eyes, I wouldn't say that this is a depressing book. The way that Kenisha and Deirdre helped each other deal with their problems was incredibly uplifting. Each of them made judgements about the other but were able to overcome these in order to become friends and support each other. The character dynamics in this story were excellent, and Kenisha's children were adorable. I always find that children brighten up a story!
I did have a few problems with this book, namely in the last third. Although I really enjoy Christian fiction, I felt that a lot of this story focused on Deirdre trying to convert Kenisha and in some places it almost came across in a "Bible-bashing" manner, where Deirdre felt that conversion was more important than simply being there for her friend and letting God shine through her actions. I'm a firm believer of showing Christ to people through the way you speak and act, and waiting for them to ask you questions, rather than trying to talk about God all the time. This was mainly present in the last third of the book, and although it didn't make me dislike it, I do feel that it brings my rating down a bit. I also found the epilogue incredibly cheesy! I do like a happy ending but this overdid it a bit.
Although I felt that this novel had its faults, I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for unconventional Christian fiction. Kenisha isn't your typical heroine, but she's incredibly endearing and you'll find yourself rooting for her to let go of the past and to find peace with everyone in her life. I found it more difficult to relate to Deirdre as I felt that she'd caused so many of the issues she had in her life, but it was excellent seeing her grow as a character, and watching her overcome stereotypes and judgements in order to become friends with Kenisha. I also appreciate that the author felt brave enough to deal with so many popular issues in our society - drug addiction, single-parenthood, alcoholism, poverty, death, cancer, street crime, infertility - and that she did so in a tactful manner. So many Christian novels focus on "safe" topics, so I admire Vanessa Miller for stepping out of the mould. Definitely an author to watch! 8/10
Many thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this book.
February 1, 2024
It was a nice story. I felt like I was watching a lifetime movie. I just didn't like that it was soooooo predictable. I knew a lil about how the ending would go just by reading the first couple of chapters.
July 12, 2011
Christian fiction, generally speaking, would not have been my genre of choice prior to beginning reading with my Kindle. Although I would call myself a Christian, my upbringing has made me wary of anything looking like proselytism, or religion with a heavy-handed touch, and I was skeptical of its place in literature.
However, I have since been introduced to a number of Christian authors, both fiction and non-fiction, whose works have been offered free, presumably to lift their profile and reach new audiences. Many of these non-fiction titles have been both thought-provoking and relevant, for example What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most, I Do ... Every day: Words of Wisdom for Newlyweds and Not So Newlyweds and The One Year Book Of Devotions For Couples. And, many of the fiction titles have been well-plotted, enjoyable to read, with likeable and sympathetic characters, with the added bonus of storylines representing values in line with my own, no offensive language, sex or violence. A few of my recommendations would include: Sandra D. Bricker's 'The Big 5-OH!' (no link available),Crossing Oceansand Walking on Broken Glass.
However, despite what was a compelling blurb,Long Time Coming, by Vanessa Miller, just did not cut it for me. If this had been my only exposure to Christian fiction writing, I may not have taken a chance with another title. The plot was highly emotive, and worked its tearjerker magic on me, but overall, I found the storyline and characters cliched, relying too much on an underlying preachy message. Others disagree, it has certainly garnered several favorable reviews. But, regardless of its religious message or tone, I just could not connect with the characters, and felt they could have been developed with greater shades of grey.
Long Time Comingis a quick read, but rates only 'okay' from me.
Two stars.
However, I have since been introduced to a number of Christian authors, both fiction and non-fiction, whose works have been offered free, presumably to lift their profile and reach new audiences. Many of these non-fiction titles have been both thought-provoking and relevant, for example What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most, I Do ... Every day: Words of Wisdom for Newlyweds and Not So Newlyweds and The One Year Book Of Devotions For Couples. And, many of the fiction titles have been well-plotted, enjoyable to read, with likeable and sympathetic characters, with the added bonus of storylines representing values in line with my own, no offensive language, sex or violence. A few of my recommendations would include: Sandra D. Bricker's 'The Big 5-OH!' (no link available),Crossing Oceansand Walking on Broken Glass.
However, despite what was a compelling blurb,Long Time Coming, by Vanessa Miller, just did not cut it for me. If this had been my only exposure to Christian fiction writing, I may not have taken a chance with another title. The plot was highly emotive, and worked its tearjerker magic on me, but overall, I found the storyline and characters cliched, relying too much on an underlying preachy message. Others disagree, it has certainly garnered several favorable reviews. But, regardless of its religious message or tone, I just could not connect with the characters, and felt they could have been developed with greater shades of grey.
Long Time Comingis a quick read, but rates only 'okay' from me.
Two stars.
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