With one flash of a camera, Demi’s private life becomes public news. She doesn’t know it yet, but her healing has just begun.
Christian college professor Demitria Costanas had vowed to end her affair with a colleague. But she gives into temptation one last time . . . and a lurking photographer captures her weakness for all to see. Quite literally, she’s the woman caught in adultery. And almost everyone—herself included—has a stone to throw.
Enter Sullivan Crisp, a decidedly unorthodox psychologist with his own baggage. He’s well-known for his quirky sense of humor and incorporation of “game show” theology into his counseling sessions. And yet there’s something more he offers: hope for a fresh start.
Reluctantly the two of them begin an uplifting, uneven journey filled with healing and grace. By turns funny and touching, this story explores the ways humans hurt each other and deceive themselves. And it shows the endlessly creative means God uses to turn stones of accusation and shame into works of beauty that lead us onto the path of healing.
An auspicious debut for a candid yet tender series about pain, healing, and God’s invitation for second chances.
“A story of refining one’s faith in a world of sin and temptation. It just might change your life. It has certainly changed mine.” —Angela Hunt, author of Daughter of Cana
Download and start listening now!
"What drew me to this book was this quote from the back description, "...the two begin an uplifting, uneven jouney filled with healing and grace." I really needed to hear a story that was centered around serving God. This story touched my heart and renewed my spirit. The characters were all interesting and strong in their own ways. I will recommend this book to my friends."
— Brenda (5 out of 5 stars)
" Couldn't put this book down till it was finished. It had such a wonderful message of forgiveness. There was a fantastic twist that I loved. I highly recommend reading this book! "
— Kathleen, 2/9/2014" I'm just getting back into reading fiction and this book was above average for Christian fare but does not match Francine Rivers' Redeeming Love, which is still my favorite book. I enjoyed the "psychology" and the story has a few twists and turns to keep you guessing. Slow in some parts and I didn't really connect to a few of the characters. The main character was strong and grew throughout the book. The messages of redemption and "those without sin can cast the first stone" are woven in the storyline nicely. I would recommend this book. "
— Kari, 1/16/2014" It was ok, but predictable. "
— Jeancincoski, 12/31/2013" Well if you ever want to know what goes on in a counseling session with a story to boot with twists and turns and surprises, with a little theology mixed in. Or should I say, Game show theology. The story itself was engaging and you were able to see how the characters developed from begining to end. It's one of the stories that anyone can learn something about themselves and how they process afflictions. The theology was a little weak. I thought the story did not reveal the glory of God. I thought it came up short when it came to the things of God and big on humanism "
— Jeanie, 11/22/2013" A nice, easy read with mystery and a message. "
— Dianna, 11/22/2013" This book is about grace. It's one of the better Christian novels I've read. "
— Shari, 11/1/2013" Great book, I love Christian based novels that reinforce my belief in Chrsist. I would definately recommend this one. "
— Amy, 10/28/2013" Really gripping story of redemption. Redemption neither easily given nor easily accepted, making it a fun story to read. Really good writer. "
— Joy, 10/12/2013" Captivating plot, great insights, loved this book! "
— Valerie, 8/24/2013" The writing is over-dramatic and out-landish but the story sucked me in. I have a few quibbles with the theology too...but overall, I really enjoyed this book. "
— Melissa, 7/14/2013" A book about love, betrayal, and trust. A Christian counselor taking time for healing on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. "
— Olean, 5/22/2013" It was a good book, but it had one of those Nicholas Sparks predictability feel to it. "
— Ginger, 5/5/2013" Marital affairs are brought about by a deep dissatisfaction in a marriage and are usually detrimental. A better way to resolve the problem is to seek counseling before there is this added rupture. "
— Estelle, 11/27/2012" Meh, kindof got boring and predictable. Simple fast read though. "
— Sdownes, 11/11/2012" I highly recommend this book. What a reminder of how we are all in need of the grace of Jesus Christ and His healing of forgiveness. "
— Tanna, 11/6/2012" I liked this book, especially the idea of weaving the counseling through a novel rather than a self-help book. The writing style was simplistic but I enjoyed taking the journey with the characters. "
— Deanna, 7/7/2012" I loved this book! It had many surprises in the story keep you interested. A faith building story. The author makes you feel involved with the characters. I cried a few times! "
— Janet, 3/17/2012" There was a twist I didn't expect at the end...I like it when that happens. "
— Rachel, 10/5/2011" This was a beautiful book about healing and redemption. Finding oneself forgiven in the midst of not wanting to forgive. I recommend it!! "
— Jen, 3/20/2011" GREAT book - about Demetria and Rich - Demetria's fall in her marriage and her journey with Christian counselor Sullivan Crisp back to forgiveness and finding her identity in Christ - excellent book - well written - very explosive and unexpected endings "
— Marsha, 1/20/2011" I think that author(s) have jumped into the conflict a little too quickly and nothing really developed. The plot dragged on for the rest of the book, and nothing substantial happened until the very end. "
— Janeen, 5/3/2010" Loved the Sullivan Crisp character, glad this is a trilogy!! "
— Mary, 3/24/2010" Really thought provoking book about forgiveness. I look forward to more in this series. "
— Pat, 1/27/2010" Very real. very interesting. A little too easy of a "wrap up" at the end...but it meant a lot to me. "
— Anita, 4/18/2009Nancy Rue is the bestselling author of more than one hundred books for teens, tweens, and adults, two of which have won Christy Awards. Nancy is also a popular speaker and radio guest due to her expertise in tween and teen issues. She and her husband, Jim, have raised a daughter of their own and now share their Tennessee lake home with two yellow labs.
Stephen Arterburn is the founder and chairman of New Life Ministries and is the host of the nationally syndicated New Life Live! daily radio program. He is also the founder of the Women of Faith conferences and an author of more than forty books. His most recent bestsellers include Every Man's Battle and Finding Mr. Right. He lives in Laguna Beach, California.
Pam Turlow is an award-winning stage and television actress. She has also appeared in print campaigns for AT&T and Ameritech.