Published: May 2010
Pages: 320
Genre: Christian Fiction/Suspense
Source: Amy Currie of Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists
Synopsis from Phenix & Phenix:
In “Never Let You Go,” Lexi is a young single mother learning to cope with the aftermath of a family disaster and the decisions of her husband, who left seven years ago. With little left to hold on to, she devotes her life to her only daughter, and is determined to do anything—work grueling hours, sacrifice financially—just to make her happy.
But when her estranged husband unexpectedly reenters their lives, her sister’s murderer comes up for parole and an unwanted acquaintance returns demanding payment of an old debt, Lexi’s world is quickly turned upside-down once again. As hidden sins are exposed and a whirlwind of mysterious forces begin to surface, her tenuous grip on life and her loved ones is threatened.
My Thoughts: This book is very reminiscent of Dekker and Peretti's past work. These two authors were my introduction into Christian suspense and I've pretty much enjoyed all of their works. Now, I have a new author to add to that list.....Erin Healy. This is an age old story of good versus evil with a twist of supernatural added to the mix. Overall, I thought Healy wrote a compelling page turner and I savored the time I spent with MOST of the characters. I have to admit that I felt that Warden was a bit of a cliche' in regards to the portrayal of the devil. At times, I found myself rolling my eyes at some of the words and expressions he exhibited. I would like to see the author grow in this regards, and really make the reader struggle in answering who is good and who is bad. I like trying to figure that out. But even with that, it didn't detract enough from the story to discourage me from finishing it. There is that knowledge going into this genre that all things will turn out for the good and yes, it is fairly predictable, but I think that is one of the reasons I enjoy reading these books. For those that like suspense with a Christian undertone, I think this would be a good choice for a future read.
Rating: 3/5
Thank you to Amy Currie for sending me a review copy. I was not compensated for my review.
My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.
They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
Even though some books are predictable, the journey to the end is still enjoyable. Glad you liked this one. Maybe the author will take heed of your thoughtful analysis and change up some of the cliches. Have a great week, Tootsie!
ReplyDeleteThis was okay for me as well. I agree with your thoughts on Warden. It took me a few chapters to get into the book. I think Erin will get better with future books.
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize this book had a Christian element to it. I agree with you that it's better to have the characters be a little more balanced.
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds very itneresting. I've never read Christian Suspense, but I think I would like to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteI for that neither mystery or Christian undertones is high on my list, but nice review :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to know what you thought about this book. I've had it on the edges of my radar for a while. I do like Christian suspense and mystery when it is done well. In my opinion, inspirational fiction has come a long way in the last 15 years.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds really good! :):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)
ReplyDeleteI've been hearing a bit about this one. It sounds good. Do you think it would be something I would like?
ReplyDeleteI might have to give this a try. I like good vs. evil, but I haven't read much Christian suspense. Don't know why.
ReplyDeleteI was going to comment that I could do without books that include the devil, but I loved Rosemary's Baby! But it seems to me it is harder for authors to make realistic evil people than realistic good people.
ReplyDeleteChristian suspense is new to me as well. I think I'd like to give it a try some day.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed this one more than Burn, and then I wondered why? I think you're right about it being fairly predictable but not having to think too much seemed to work for me :-)
ReplyDeleteProbably sounds a lot like Dekker because she is his editor. They've written a couple books together. Looking forward to reading it.
ReplyDeleteBoy that cover art is amazing! Too bad the story within wasn't as impressive for you. But I like that you give authors room to grow.
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