C. J. DarlingtonRezensionen

56850

Great story, enjoyed the honest spiritual thread that shows a young girl Shay struggling to make sense of her life, her relationship with God, and others as she searches for a “new” normal. Her whole world is flipped upside down after the death of her father. Shay feels lost without him. What to believe about life and God? Her grandparents want nothing to do with her after she has made a bad decision. They bring her to her Aunt’s house to live.

Shay is a complex, intelligent girl trying to make sense of the loss that has her trying to pick up the pieces of her life, trying to make sense of it all as she deals with an emotional storm raging inside and out. Her Aunt and friends try to love the unlovable her, but she has a hard time understanding and loving herself.

I enjoyed the natural spiritual thread going on with Shay as it organically grows with her struggling with life and what she felt about faith, and the fact she is mixed up. Was it all a lie? I like how the author does this naturally in the story line. It was not preachy but refreshing. We do not have the answers to everything. I liked how gut honest this author is in expressing what Shay is going through, and the struggles of high school, finding real friends and trying to fit in. Not to mention dealing with a drama class she did not sign up for.

The authors love of horses, dogs, and kitties shines through this heart-warming, brutally honest look at being a teenager facing hard things and testing the boundaries of a new life. I enjoyed how the author takes readers to a horse show and how Shay was in tuned with the animals. She could see the tale-tale signs of animal abuse. What does that say about the owner? Does he abuse people too? The characters are believable and grow throughout the course of the story. This would be a great read and one that would work well for your next book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. 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
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

These might be considered young adult but this old adult enjoyed the two books in the series. They are good scifi ones set on Earth and Jupiter. I enjoyed Grey, Jin, Dana and Mrs March. The characters all had a good depth to them. I hope there is a third book in the works

A busy woman rushing to make it to Bible study, a husband and father who's just been laid off, and a hurting teenager with a secret are all running... Out of Time, a collection of three short stories by author C.J. Darlington.

I promise I don't only read short stories when/because I'm running short on time myself. Even though it's convenient to get in quick reads, I appreciate the short story form for what it is, and this trio is rather good, especially the title story.

I could have cried at the end of that one. It's not a new message or a surprising tale to me, but it's so real. It shows how we humans are, how sometimes we really just don't get it. But it's a motivating story, too.

Now, while I do like author's notes that give background or "behind the scenes" info, I can do without explanations about a story's moral or lesson, especially the shorter a story is. I think it's more powerful when brief and sharp fiction is left to speak for itself, and the reader will catch the message just fine.

This is my first time reading this author, and I plan on doing so again.

This is the second novel I have read by this author but I read them in the wrong order. I loved Bound by Guilt the second in this series. I also enjoyed this book, although not quite as much. The author's style has progressed and developed as she writes more books.

Thicker than Blood is the story of two sisters who become separated after a family tragedy. Their lives follow very different paths--May goes to live with an older relative and eventually achieves her dream of working on a beautiful ranch in the middle of nowhere. She also comes to faith. Christie, on the other hand, blames herself for the family tragedy and plunges into a world of crime, alcohol and abusive relationships. Will the sisters ever re-unite and can the damage to their fractured relationship be healed?

This is a story of the consequences of sin in the life of a person far from God and the alternatives available to them. It kept me reading and there were a fair number of twists and turns. I particularly liked the way the author has woven faith into the lives of some of the characters. It isn't just tagged on and doesn't feel awkward--it is the central aspect to their lives. The author clearly explains the Gospel through some of the dialogue. I would question one minor detail in that she says that it is not possible for God to save us unless we take that first step towards Him. I suggest that it is the other way around due to the Bible stating that no one can come to Jesus unless the Father draws Him (John 6 vs 44.) However, in context it was not a big issue.

I hope that this book would encourage people that no matter how broken their lives or how far they have fallen, God can forgive them and restore them at any point. It is the story of the prodigal son.

The narrative deals with drink driving and alcoholism, fraud/crime, serious domestic violence and the far-reaching consequences of abortion. For this reason I would not recommend it for children. It deals with the issues in a sensitive manner and the struggles are realistic. I felt the violence in places was a bit too graphic and may bother some readers but again it was not gratuitous and did not glorify sin. There was no sexual content although it is clear that two characters are sleeping together. There was no bad language.

I recommend this book to all Christian readers.

Finally, Christian Fiction worth reading--I couldn't actually put this down and ended up staying up late to finish it. I can totally see why this author has won awards for her writing.

So, what did I like about it?

1. The Christian worldview wasn't compromised--right and wrong were clearly distinguishable. When characters made mistakes they suffered consequences but there was also grace and forgiveness when they were truly repentant.

2. The storyline was different. The author clearly has a heart for teenagers from broken families and abusive backgrounds. The main character is from such a family and struggles with a number of long-term issues as a result. I liked the depth and reality of this character. The message was clearly that God can deal with any issues and that everyone has them!

3. The crime occurred at the beginning of the book and the reader was present throughout. That created dramatic tension as the other characters scrambled to establish what had happened. The suspense aspect was whether or not the authorities would catch up with the suspects. The plot unfolded well and kept me hooked until the end.

4. The main character is helped along the way by various fringe characters--they all mention faith in God but not in a compulsive way, it just forms part of the natural conversation. This is how it should be in reality if Christians are truly focused on God in their everyday lives--how can we meet someone or have a conversation without Him being mentioned if He is present in everything we do. This was a good reminder that we can really make a difference through our daily witness as we are being watched by non-believers.

5. The character of a Christian was represented effectively--compassion, kindness, perseverance, patience etc. Also a trait that is often overlooked-dependability, which in this case was exactly what the main character needed as so many had let her down.

6. The parallel animal story-lines--I love animals too!

I could go on but I don't want to give too much away. There were only a few things that I felt could have been sharpened up. There is a scene where a character is described as "definitely Christian/with a belief in God." The evidence for that seems to have been in his relationship with nature/his appreciation of creation. It is mentioned that he didn't go to church that much and his faith is described in vague terms. I think that because he is described a definitely a Christian more needed to be made here of what a Christian is and how that would impact a life.

I highly recommend this book and will be reading others in this series. The book is clean with no bad language and no sexual content. There is violence including murder but I felt it was handled sensitively. The author has done well here as she has managed to handle some tough issues without compromising Christian values for the sake of a secular audience and she manages to keep the book exciting in the process...

Title: Jupiter Storm
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 280
Year: 2016
Publisher: Mountainview Books
My rating is 5 stars.
I don’t know if the author plans for this to become a trilogy, but I sure hope so as the first two books are a source of imaginative enjoyment! The first book in the series is titled Jupiter Winds where we meet the Alexander family. There are two factions that are fighting for control of earth and the way faith can ground people when life is at its toughest!
In Jupiter Storm, sudden wind storms come up with little to no warning, and the fight between the Mazdaar and Yein Dynasty becomes more dangerous. Hoping to claim Jupiter as a place where people can live without the rule of Mazdaar is threatened when an unknown mole from Mazdaar undermines the plans of the “rebels”. The Alexander family is totally united in fighting the anarchy of the Mazdaar, but having been separated for five years the two daughters, Rinney and Grey, are struggling with their feelings and separation from their parents for years.
Hope seems to be but one thread recurring throughout the books, and it is best to read the first book before reading the second as the story line is continuous. While most of the time I am not a science fiction fan this author has done a supreme job in her writing to make it so believable that as I read I forgot most of the time I was reading a futuristic novel.
Other themes of deciding to believe truth and fight for it regardless of the cost, love of family is bigger than just having the same last name and deciding whether to cling to the Scriptural truths or that of lies. There are extinct animals in the novels, interesting conflicts both internal and external with some of the players in the books. I wasn’t bored one minute and I just couldn’t read and turn the pages fast enough! Please, seriously consider sharing these novels with anyone who loves to read as they are well-crafted stories with action, adventure and faith.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Title: Running on Empty
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 348
Year: 2015
Publisher: Mountainview Books
My rating is 5+ stars.
C. J. Darlington just keeps getting better! I have read her other books Jupiter Winds, Thicker than Blood, Bound by Guilt, Ties that Bind and her newest Running on Empty. Each novel contains a story that will stir your blood, set your imagination running, and leave you wanting more of her stories. Running on Empty seems like a great candidate for a sequel because I would love to see how a couple of the characters meet with justice!
The main characters are two half-sisters Delaware and California, who have nicknames Del and Callie. These two go through a whole maze of danger, trouble, reprieve and more as they are just trying to live day by day. Del is the oldest and has lost her job. She has been black-balled due to a lie people in the small town where she lives believe. One night in the wee hours Del opens her front door to find a dog and Callie.
There are those who are cunning, don’t value life and right now think they have gotten away with more than just murder. Del is on the fence with her faith, having learned a truth withheld from her till the death of her parents that has skewered her view of God. Callie believes in Jesus and has a childlike faith and a heart filled with love. At times in the story when Del would be hesitant to tell the truth because trust comes hard for her, Callie spills it like water which more than once cause Del to wince.
The ending of the book was classic. The tale has mystery, danger, adventure, and themes of trust, brokenness, regret, and hope. That isn’t all the book has to offer, but hours of enjoyment will help you glean what is held in this great story. C. J. Darlington writes some of the most interesting stories I have come across. The characters can be related to, seem real and before one knows it have the reader cheerleading for the good guys!
I hope you read all the books this author takes time to write and share with anyone who loves reading. These books can be read over and over again and each time the story will still be fresh, leaving the reader wanting more! I hope C. J. is already working on her next book whether it is the Thicker than Blood Series or the sequel to Jupiter Winds or perhaps something totally different. Either way I am sure to devour it as I have her others, so join me on the road to some great books!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

OK. I have to admit... when I flipped the book over and looked at the back, I jumped.

Those eyes are creepy. But they're probably meant to be, so they definitely do their job.


DO NOT MISS THIS BOOK!


It doesn't matter if you're a fan of Inspirational fiction or not, if you enjoy Dystopian OR Sci-Fi, YOU WILL LOVE THIS BOOK!

Yes, faith is an intricate part of the story but it is woven in so seamlessly and without sounding preachy, it's clearly just an intrinsic piece of the whole.

Jupiter Winds is the 4th full-length published novel of C.J. Darlington who, when she didn't get the answer she wanted from traditional publishers - decided to start her own (successful) publishing company along with her mother and sister.

And all I can say is, the traditional publishing agencies truly missed the boat this time!

 

"Jupiter Winds" could so easily knock "Divergent" off it's tattooed pedestal.

 

This is a book that has it ALL. The government is taking merciless advantage, people are starving or being killed left and right for no reason, two teens are left alone to fend for themselves when their parents go missing and the coup de grâce - most of the book takes place on another planet!

And...get this. It's a true dystopian - not like so many of these watered-down, almost dystopian novels that are getting their "15 minutes" and then fading into obscurity. It doesn't just encompass an entire planet, it tells us about 2! And we don't get a quick sound-bite either. We get a good back-story (and more than a little popping in here or there through the whole story) on what's going on around the world. It's GREAT!

There's no lack of techno-sounding words or language progression in this story either. It's in there!
From cosmoships to bioskin. The danger, the excitement, the knowing that something unthinkable could happen at any moment - It's ALL in there!

There are surprises around every corner and no yawns anywhere. And don't be lulled into complacency. Just because you're getting close to the end does NOT mean there isn't another surprise coming your way!

It's a tough book to put down but, if you have to, I promise you'll be rushing back to it as quickly as you can and you'll get pulled right back into the story within the space of a sentence.

Disclaimer: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Title: Ties that Bind
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 402
Year: 2013
Publisher: Mountainview Books
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Ties-That-Bind-C-Darlington/dp/0989162109/ref=sr_1_3?s=boo...
Sometimes when life seems to throw a curve, besides reading the Bible for comfort, I love to escape into the fictional world created by an author. Ties that Bind is the final book in this western trilogy which centers around two sisters previously introduced to us in Thicker than Blood & Bound by Guilt. Christy is the bibliophile while May loves being outdoors and ranching. We are now introduced to an episode in their parents’ lives of which the two sisters knew nothing prior to their parents’ deaths. Now, out of the blue, a young woman shows up at May’s ranch asking for a job, and the co-owner Ruth gladly hires her.
When tragedy strikes the ranch, the new girl begins a downward spiral, and Christy knows better than May how to help Brynn Taylor overcome her addiction. There seems to be more to Brynn’s past which audiences will enjoy discovering as they read the tale. As time passes, May is the first to learn about their missing half-sister, but never in her wildest dreams could she imagine who it turned out to be.
For me, this was an absolute stunning way to cap off the stories, characters and themes I read in the previous two books. One aspect of the characters I like was how they, like real people, had to wrestle with problems, forgiveness and more. I loved how faith was held up as the one and only way to walk through hard times, or even when one fails, God is shown for his loving and forgiving character. No character in the book desired to become a believer or give up their self-destructive ways which also lends to the authenticity of how humans choose.
All three novels are amazing, encouraging, and faith-filled along with dramatic, pulling readers further into the tale until the very last page. There is so much more to the novels than I have revealed here, so please grab yourself a set, ask for them as gifts or give them as gifts because they are amazing books you will read over and over again!
My rating is 5+ stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/ . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457

Title: Bound by Guilt
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 402
Year: 2013
Publisher: Mountainview Books
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Bound-Guilt-C-J-Darlington/dp/0989162176/ref=pd_bxgy_b_tex...
The first novel in the series, Thicker than Blood, sets the stage for the continuation of the main characters in Bound by Guilt, May and Christy. The sisters have experienced the loss of both parents in a car accident plus May has feelings of abandonment when Christy took off without explanation after the funeral. Now readers see in Bound by Guilt the intensity notched up by focusing on a teenage girl who has felt rejected all her life. Roxie is now traveling in an RV, living a less than stellar life.
Page after page shine of God’s love, forgiveness and provision as readers delve deeper into the tale. I can say that the depiction of foster situations and group homes in the story is pretty close to reality in some though not all homes. There are some good foster parents/homes and some group homes should be held up as models for others to emulate. Please know I used to work in the social work field and group homes.
What readers will sense is the fervor of the action that increases as a murder is committed along with the theft of expensive rare books. Roxie’s character insecurity and search for a love that won’t abandon her is really heart gripping. Christy was engaged to the young man who was killed, and the way she works through her emotions to forgive the perpetrators is astounding. Abby is a policewoman and the sister of the victim. She is rough around the edges with many questions. Her past is littered with brokenness. It is hard for Abby to control her anger and emotions, especially when dealing face-to-face with the accused. I liked how the author leaves her open minded by not making a decision for or against God. Real people are like this too. They need time, and it is work that only the Lord can do.
Audiences are just going to want to get comfy and read all the books in the series one after the other. The order is Thicker than Blood, Bound by Guilt then Ties that Bind.
My rating is 5+ stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/ . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457

Title: Thicker than Blood
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 400
Year: 2013
Publisher: Mountainview Books
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Thicker-than-Blood-C-Darlington/dp/098916215X/ref=tmm_pap_...
The novel opens up with action from the first sentence until the very end, increasing intensity along the way with twists and turns in the plot! May is raised by her Aunt Edna after the death of her parents. Her older sister Christy hasn’t been around for years, and May has no clue where she lives or works. Christy works for a bookstore that sells rare and collectible books they usually get through estate auctions. May works on a ranch, which suits her to a tee. The ranch is in danger of foreclosure, which May prays about often believing God will act but not knowing how. Christy is struggling with the same addiction that cost her parents their lives. May wonders about Christy’s whereabouts and what she ever did to make Christy angry. Christy thinks May would never want to know her or see her as she feels May would be greatly ashamed at the choices Christy has made in her life. Neither sister is right.
While May’s ranch and home are heading into foreclosure, Christy is fired from the bookstore when her controlling boyfriend talks to the owner’s father. One sister has become a Christian while the other has discounted religion as a whole. These are just a couple of snapshots of the tale that will tantalize readers in the novel. There is action, adventure, revenge, redemption, life and death along with finding out truth from lies.
I have read another C. J. Darlington novel called, Jupiter Winds, which received a five-star rating from me. I am reading her series that actually began her fictional journey! The other tales in the series are Bound by Guilt & Ties that Bind, which I will be reading and reviewing next. Thicker than Blood brings to the forefront issues like alcoholism, abuse, and the estrangement in the relationship between the two sisters. However, the bigger picture is how the Lord can touch the heart of those who seek Him and totally change the life of one who has lost everything and seems to have nothing.
I cannot wait to start the next novel in the series to share with you, as I am sure they are just as breathtaking as Thicker than Blood. With the holidays around the corner for the booklover in the family, wrap these up for under the tree as the reader will thoroughly love them!
My rating is 5 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/ . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457

Title: Jupiter Winds
Author: C. J. Darlington
Pages: 300
Year: 2014
Publisher: Mountainview Books
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Jupiter-Winds-C-J-Darlington/dp/0989162133/ref=sr_1_1?s=bo...
I find out about authors and novels in many ways. My introduction to C. J. Darlington was through Mountainview Books. They offer books that are filled with wonderful tales that weave in the essence of a personal faith in God alone. When I read the synopsis of Jupiter Winds, I was intensely drawn to the book. As I began reading, I quickly lost track of time and never wanted to stop reading!
The tale is about a family named Alexander whose faith grounded them and helped them discern the growing evil happening on planet earth. The family had gotten separated by events outside their control that will thoroughly entertain the audience as they read about each family member’s adventure.
The evil pervading earth is by a group named Mazdaar that originally used drones to bring people under submission. Their ambitions led to them making drones of humans shortly after their death and their evil plans knew no bounds. Audiences will be entertained by the interaction between characters, twists and turns of the plot along with never ending action and revelations!
Science fiction has never been one of my genres to read. I liked some movies in that genre, but reading it was not on the top of my list. Somehow C. J. Darlington penetrated my guard by writing a fascinating novel that reflects themes like faith, sacrificial living, family, and being alert to danger. The danger of being complacent in life was another theme that shows the possible outcome of life not lived in one’s faith and obedience to the Lord.
I look forward to reading the other novels written by this author as they look like westerns, but Jupiter Winds just grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go until the very last sentence. If her other novels are like this, all I can say is she has a new follower and people will really enjoy her books! Don’t pass up reading this particular story, because if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself glued to it until the very end!
My rating is 5+ stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”
Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/ . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457

I read C. J. Darlington’s first novel, Thicker Than Blood, and really loved it. So when she contacted me about reviewing a YA Sci-Fi novel, I was intrigued. Now I am glad I read it. What a great twisting, turning adventure across the galaxy! Filled with adventure, danger and faith, Jupiter Winds is a must read for your whole family. If you like family read-alongs, this book would be a perfect choice — there is so much to discuss.

Grey Alexander took over the care of her sister Orinda following the disappearance of her parents five years ago. Now at the age of 17, Grey is an accomplished smuggler, eluding the drone patrol on the borders of the Alamo Zone and the North American Preserve. Faced with the dangers of Mazdaar patrols, the wild animals that live in her desert home and the overwhelming struggle for survival, Grey and Rin attempt to not only survive, but thrive. But a deadly encounter with a border patrol and the increased scrutiny of the Mazdaar regime propel Grey and Rin on a galactic trip to Jupiter to find answers and hope for a future.

There is a lot for sci-fi fans to love in Jupiter Winds – high tech gadgets, weapons and space travel. The setting is a post nuclear Earth in which two global governments strive against each other for supremacy. There is persecution of the faithful remnant which pits ruthless oppressors against determined and well-trained rebels. And though the plot is fast-paced, characters are well-developed. Grey and Rin are not your typical teenagers; they have had to learn to survive without their parents in a very hostile environment. But teens and young adults will find much to identify with. Secondary characters are developed as well, allowing the reader to connect with their fears, doubts and victories. And you will love Darlington’s descriptions of the flora, fauna and terrain of Jupiter.

Darlington does a good job of injecting faith into the story. Never preachy, it is, however, foundational for the themes of hope and God’s sovereignty. One verse is repeated throughout the story — If I ascend to heaven, you are there! (Psalm 139:8). This is a particularly relevant verse for the space travelers. Personal freedom as contrasted with the desire for security is also examined.

I highly recommend Jupiter Winds to anyone who wants a well-written book filled with complex characters, an intriguing plot and an imaginative setting. Yes it is science fiction, but it is so much more! I am hoping for more adventures with Grey and Rin.

Highly Recommended.

Great for family read-alongs.

Targeted audience: middle school and above.

(Thanks to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Read from April 23 to 24, 2013

Debut? a.maz.ing!
This book reads like a well seasoned author at the wheel. Pacing is steady. No details left out or leaving me questioning. Conflicts all round are believable and consistent with the protagonist's life choices and situations. No frustration with maturity of the characters' responses as they were accurate to their ages in today's culture and society. A good depiction of faith lived rather than told. Can be a pet peeve for inspy reads; not an issue here.

The story itself captured my interest from the get go and the pressure didn't let up til it was time for the ending to let go.. Contemporary, relatable issues - no I won't spoil it for you! - that have probably impacted most readers to some degree, bringing this into one's own livingroom so to speak.

Info on used booktrade was absolutely fascinating to me. Lots of inside tips on 1st edition recognition and valuing, methods of stocking and purchasing - all added unique interest to the story. As did the ranch life scenarios. Calving season, birth intervention, none of this is usual fiction fare; but definitely realistic and knowledgeably described.

A dynamic read. Well delivered and entirely enjoyed.
Thank you , CJ, for sharing your talent and wisdom with us readers!

This was a great sequel to this author's debut story, "Thicker Than Blood"! I loved how the author continues to use the "antiquarian" book world in her story line and picks up where her first book left off, although the main characters are all new to this story. I also love whoever does her book covers. Although this story doesn't have a lot of "happy moments", it is very well done and shows the real world of some foster care children and the heartache and longing they have for a real loving family.

Roxi Gold is a teenager who has been moved around in foster care until a relative finally takes her in. But her new "family" travels the country stealing rare books from bookstores and Roxi tries her best to fit in and do what she can to help them so that maybe she will be accepted, loved and cared for. But something goes tragically wrong and Roxi finds herself taking off and fleeing her family. Where she ends up and what she finally finds is very heartwarming. Don't want to spoil anything, but this was a great story of forgiveness and unconditional love.

This was a story with a lot of intense moments. It was hard to put down and walk away from. The author did a great job of bringing this story to a great ending. The Biblical aspect of love and the ability to provide forgiveness even under the worst of tragedies was very well done and precious to read about. I appreciate the author's thoughts at the end of the book, how she came up with the unusual story line and how her characters become real to her as she writes. Great job! I look forward to the next book in this series.

Things I liked about this book: 1. I loved the look and even the feel of the cover of this book. 2. I loved the story line of the book and how books themselves and the love of them were captured by some of the characters in this story. 3) The author did a great job of telling this story and making you understand and feel what these characters were going through in their life.

Christy and May are two sisters who lost their Dad and Mom when they were teenagers. Christy ended up leaving her younger sister May on the doorstep of her Aunt after the funeral and taking off never to come back, until 15 years later. May has grown up and is helping run a ranch that is about to be foreclosed on. She has also yearned to know where her sister is and what she is doing with her life. Christy made some bad decisions in her growing up years and hasn't exactly turned out the way she had hoped. She holds a job she loves working at the "Book Barn" and working with books all day long. But that job is about to end and her life is spiraling out of control. Her last hope is looking up her long lost sister, May.

This was a very well written drama of a story. My only negative comment is that it was a somber story, full of heartache and sorrow. It was a clear picture of how the Lord changed one sister and how His presence in her life helped her to face the hardships and still have a peace. That had a deep impact on her sister. which is a good lesson for us all to live our life in such a way that others can see the difference the Lord can make in ones life. There was also the element of forgiveness to be dealt with and a love that looks beyond being wronged. This was a story of God's love and long-suffering, a story of hope, but also a story that brings out the sorrow and grief of a person's life. I look forward to reading more from this author. There are three books that I know of in this series, this is book one, and "Bound by Guilt" is book two, which I am reading now.

Thicker Than Blood is the debut novel by C. J. Darlington, but you sure wouldn’t know it. Darlington’s book is complex and riveting; it had me turning the pages as fast as I could. And while it has hints of the Prodigal Son, the story is original and fresh. I really liked Thicker Than Blood and am betting you will too.

Christy Williams has been running since the age of eighteen when her parents were killed in an auto accident. She has made some terrible choices and she believes the lies that she is trash, worthless. Her sister, May, felt abandoned when Christy left. But she has made a life for herself — with ranching and her church family. When Christy again runs, she seeks out May. Each sister has some decisions to make — to give and receive forgiveness.

Being a huge book nerd, I loved the used and rare books aspect of Thicker Than Blood. I am also a big fan of suspense novels, and Darlington’s book supplied that in abundance. But it was the story of reconciliation and redemption, forgiveness given and accepted, that spoke to my heart. This is a beautifully written novel with complex and realistic characters. I never once felt a false note. And a big plus is that Darlington has two more books for me to read!

A good choice for book clubs, I recommend Thicker Than Blood!

Highly Recommended.

Great for Book Clubs.

Welcome to the unique and unusual antiquarian book world of author,
CJ Darlington!

Follow-up to Darlington's 'Thicker Than BLood', 'Bound by Guilt' contains enough explanatory history allowing for an engaging stand alone read. On the other hand, it was like old home week comfort to catchup with characters from the first novel.
*
Darlington's novels centre in the unusual setting of the antiquarian book world. Her novels
are filled with unique and interesting facts inspiring a broader understanding of books and their value.
*
This particular book prominently features F. Scott Fitzgerald's , The Great Gatsby, first edition.
A timely focus with the newest movie released this last month.
*
Darlington's writing is filled with quick wit, creative expressions, and a consistently unique voice that adds to the charm of reading her novels. My emotions and attention are fully engaged by Darlington's writing. Every sense is affected. From the aroma of the morning coffees, flavours of the cinnamon raisin bagels, whispered cell phone messages, to descriptive indoor or outdoor settings.
*
The story itself is intense with an increasing pace that had me laying the book aside at times to relieve the tension. Suspenseful drama, mystery, adventure, intrigue, all realistic in culturally relevant contemporary settings. Well developed growth and maturing of likeable characters; strong emotionally influential features of disliked characters. Generational variety in characters who come to life in the reading, exhibiting believable actions and reactions.

Enough twists to keep the reader guessing and unsettled enough to keep reading.

I recommend Ms Darlington's 'Bound By Guilt' as readily as her debut, 'Thicker Than Blood'.





Review for Tyndale Rewards program. Receive Free Bonus 25 points by using this LINK to Join today.

This novel by Darlington is an interesting book, one that will keep you reading. The characters become real and you know them and wonder what is going to happen to them next. The plot is intersting enough to keep you attantion. I enjoyed it.

J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the 'Isms'"

Roxi Gold is a troubled teenager; taken from a negligent mother, shuffled between group homes and foster families, she eventually finds herself living with her mother’s cousin and her teenaged son. Longing more than anything else to be loved and to belong to a family, she is swept into the criminal schemes of her caregiver and enters the world of antiquarian book theft.

I always enjoy reading C.J. Darlington’s book-centered Christian suspense titles. I particularly enjoy how she weaves real-life rare book details into the fabric of each of her stories. Bound by Guilt is the follow-up novel to Thicker Than Blood, Darlington’s debut. While we are introduced to a new cast of main characters, it was exciting to see how familiar faces from the first novel were interwoven into the plot of this second novel in surprising ways.

Deeply engaging, Bound by Guilt is crafted with a wealth of emotional tension. I found myself reaching for the tissues several times as I read through its pages. That being said, I did find the emotional responses of one of the key characters of Thicker Than Blood to be rather muted for the circumstances she found herself in. She is no longer a main player on the ongoing storyline, but I would have liked to see more depth there.

I’m excited to see what Darlington has for us in the future! She has a way of crafting true-to-life stories of faith and forgiveness that ring with authenticity.

Reviewed at quiverfullfamily.com

Bound by Guilt is the perfect title for this book. It's hard to post a review without giving away spoilers, but I'll try. There were some things at the end of the first book in this series that had me wanting more. Well, in this story I got to see what I wanted, then wham! My heart ached and the tension just kept building from there. I could picture the traumatic event because it was so well done. Every time the situation was remembered I had a flashback myself. The description of the horrible event was superb. The author did a great job showing a variety of situations that tugged on this reader's heart strings. I love how the author showed rifts in families and relationships in both books and showed how important it is to always keep a clean slate. What a great lesson.

The thing that intrigued me about this book the most was the foster care situation. I've worked with foster children for years as a child protective services worker and this author did a great job showing the inner turmoil that foster children go through. I loved how the author paired Roxi with a dog who needed someone and who had no one just like she did. Wonderful analogy and critical to her healing. The rest of the book continued in a similar manner until God hooked Roxi up with someone who truly cared. I was inspired by the themes in this book and loved the ending. I also love how the author isn't afraid to hurt her characters--a lot-- but that always makes for a better story. Great sequel!

There were so many connections to make with this book. My first connection was with Abby Dawson. She was a cop who felt she had failed at her marriage and then felt like she was a failure as a cop. Her ex-husband, a lawyer and fought for custody of their daughter and won. I admired Abby for not putting her daughter in the middle of their divorce and problems. I know there were times she wanted to shout and explain the truth to her daughter. I know when I went through my divorce it took every ounce of strength I had not to let my children know how I felt when they would tell me what new thing their father had purchased for them. Our problems were not theirs and so I kept my mouth shut. Abby did the same thing. I understood her strained relationship with her father. When her brother is killed some of her old problems and feelings resurface.

Roxie Gold reminded me of so many students who have passed through my classroom. One kid in particular stands out. He would misbehave daily. At the end of the year he came to thank me for being his teacher. He told me I was his favorite. I told him that I was surprised because I had griped at him almost daily. With a grin on his face he said, "Yes I know. At least I know you loved me." How sad that kids will do anything, even if it is wrong for an ounce of love. Roxie was like that. Since she'd been passed from foster home to foster home. She felt lucky to be with her aunt Irene and her son Diego. She didn't like that to win her aunts approval she had to help steal rare books. It was obvious from the outsider's point of view, meaning the reader, that Irene was a user. She exploited Roxie and her own son for personal gain. That is not love. Greedy they change their plans and go back to the Book Barne to steal some valuable first editions. The manager, whose apartment is connected to the book store, hears the break in and confronts them. That is when a gun is produced and he ends up dead. Roxie can't live with this so she runs away from Irene. She is picked up by Jan and taken home to stay with Jan and her husband Keith. It is here she finds out what unconditional love is.

This book is full of hope, love and forgiveness. The Christian theme throughout is wonderfully done. It is not an "in your face" preaching. God's truths are presented in real life lessons that we se examples of around us all the time. This was a wonderful book. I had not read her first book Thicker Than Blood but I will. I also look forward to her next book. This is an author we need to watch closely. Her writing is fresh and touching. Her characters are so real you can't help but identify with them.

BOUND BY GUILT by C.J. Darlington is an amazing contemporary christian fiction set in modern day America.It is this author's second book.Her first book "Thicker Than Blood".While this a sequel,this second book has no connection to the first book,and is a stand alone. This story has multiple intertwining stories with Roxie and Abbey the primary characters. Roxie,is a runaway,she thinks a throwaway,abandoned by her mother as a child,moved from foster home to foster home,and finds a friend in Diego and his mother.Who are actually book thieves of rare books.She joined them and when disaster occurs,she is on the run again,and she has lost faith in God and her fellow man until she meets a family who takes her in not only for shelter but also for love.Abbey,a police officer,a mother,whose ex-husband has been given custody of their daughter,her brother is murdered,and she has also lost faith in humanity and God.This is a story that will capture your heart and keep you on the edge of your seat while you watch each character in this multiple facet story come to life and some find their way. You will see how forgiveness can not only give you freedom but also remove the bound of guilt. Bound by Guilt is an amazing, positive story of not only God's love but of love,forgiveness,guilt,healing and inspiration with powerful characters and a powerful plot. Darlington is really an author to keep a watch out for,as I have read both of her amazing,powerful stories of love,faith and inspiration.This is a MUST READ and a keeper.I enjoy how she weaves faith and God's love into her stories without preaching and has intrigue,suspense,mystery in a powerful story.This book was received for the purpose of review from On Trakk and the publisher and details can be found at Tyndale Fiction and My Book Addiction and More.½

Bound by Guilt is an outstanding book. It is the story of Roxi, a young girl who has never known the love that most of us take for granted. She was deserted and rejected by her mother and bounced around from foster home to foster home, always seeking a love that continued to elude her. In a misguided effort to earn that love, she is taken in by a relative and made to be an accomplice in a monetarily profitable rare book stealing trio.

When theft turns to something far more serious, Roxi flees. She is taken in by a husband and his wife who own a ranch. It is there that she finally learns the true meaning of love - unconditional love that loves no matter what the circumstances may be. She learns too about Christ's love, a love that is granted not, as the saying goes, because of who we are, but in spite of who we are.

The Biblical principles of love and forgiveness are prevalent throughout the pages of this book. From its beautiful cover to the final page, this book will draw you in and keep you captivated. I highly recommend Bound by Guilt and I will definitely be watching for future books from C.J. Darlington.