The Scarlet Thread (Sons of Encouragement)

Rating:
Summary: Surprisingly good
Review: After reading some Christian fiction that seemed overly "preachy," I have to admit being sceptical before picking up this book. However, this book was delightful! It was weighty, meaning the author did not shrink from exploring the heavier issues of infidelity, sex, personal responsiblity, the choices we make. The relationship between Sierra and Alex was enlightening, with all its complexities and nuances, and mostly, its human-ness. This is excellent reading as nothing is "glossed over" and there are no easy answers as we watch Sierra and her husband grapple with real-world issues in their marriage. I would highly recommend this book, as it will bring up important questions in your own life to think about. I can't wait to read more of Francine Rivers.

Rating:
Summary: The Scarlet Thread by Francine Rivers
Review: I found this book enthralling. The characters were so real, I could feel myself getting emotionally wrapped up in their lives and struggles. This author managed to weave two women's lives together via a journal, each woman from different times, yet each fighting for a belief in God. The quilt hanging on Sierra's wall and the journal kept by her ancestor brought the two women together as their lives seemed to spiral out of control. And, then they found God and inner peace and Sierra found the ability to look within herself and see that she wasn't perfect and that sin is sin, no matter the deed. It's all the same. And, Francine is not afraid to write about the truth in her novels; I've read many. I'm an inspirational author myself, Kelly R. Stevens, and I've penned eight novels, three of which are available at Amazon.com or American Bookstands. And, I struggle to accomplish the same things in my novels, the truth, good or bad, and real life struggles that hit us all. You can read my take on Christianity and writing at the site of my book, Song of the Cimarron. Francine Rivers is inspiring as an inspirational author and I'm honored to call myself a "Sister Author" with Francine for Christ. Keep up the good work, Francine. I'll be reading more as I highly recommend this talented author!

Rating:
Summary: God is Amazing!
Review: I have to admit that it was a little odd and it took me awhile to figure out how the journal entries matched up to her own real life. The first part of the book is so frustrating that I almost stopped reading it. But, someone told me how wonderful it is, so I kept going. I am so happy I did!! By the end, the entire store wraps up together and I actually held this book up to my heart when I finished it. Truly, truly amazing. After I finished it, I had a few "OH..." moments where I was seeing all the connections made throughout her life and with the journal entries. A WONDERFUL read!!

Rating:
Summary: Loved it!
Review: I thank God for Francine Rivers. Her's is the best writing I have found in the Christian Fiction circuit. She has the perfect balance of romance/ suspense and drama. I really enjoyed this book and I have re-read 3 times. I liked Siera and found her to be a very "real" person, none of that phony, pseudo-christianity here. I liked Alex too. Flawed human bring, like the rest of us, who struggles to find his way back. These two entertained me and I laughed and I cried. Thanks Francine for creating such interesting characters. The only thing I didn't like were the journal entries, so I gave the book 4 stars.

Rating:
Summary: Another great one from Francine
Review: The Editorial Review says "Purchase only where demand is warranted for former mainstream romance-writer Rivers's books." Don't, go for it and buy it. You won't be disappointed, I promise you. With every Rivers book I read, I feel closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you Francine.
And something for those who write book reviews describing every turn of the chapter, DON'T! You ruin it for those of us who like to read. Thank you.


Rating:
Summary: Worth the read, but slightly flawed
Review: The Scarlet Thread takes difficult issues for the Christian community (divorce and adultery) and shows the personal side of it. Sierra's transformation from a dependent wife to an independent woman, all while trying to hold on to her faith, gives inspiration to those faced with a world falling apart. I enjoyed the story within the story, and often wished for more from the frontier. The ending was disappointing in the sense that everything seemed to be reconciled in a very quick few pages. I felt Rivers could have taken out some of the middle of the book, which was slow at times, and put more into the ending. Overall, a good read.

Rating:
Summary: Surprised...
Review: This book is more than wonderful!!! I wish i could rate it more than 5 stars. I sell xtian books to friends and colleagues, and Atonement Child was the first Francine Rivers' book i ever read, and i have been hooked since then. The book did more than minister to me, but as an engaged lady, it opened my eyes to the reality of marriage - forgiveness and love. After reading any of this woman's books, i just wonder how she has allowed herself to be used as an instrument by God - what more can one ask for? God bless you

Rating:
Summary: Nice To See Real Life Struggles
Review: This book was an excellent example of the struggles many modern Christian women face. The ties that bind the present and the past were wonderful and thought provoking.

Rating:
Summary: Many layers worth exploring.
Review: This is a multi-layered book which focuses on two women searching for Christ in their lives. The main story centers on Sierra Madrid, a wife and mother of two children whose husband receives a job offer in a different city. She clings to her childhood home and early marriage memories instead of embracing what the future may hold. Through reading the journal of an ancestor crossing the Oregon trail, she learns to let go of her expectations and rely on faith. It's a tender and (at times) heart-wrenching look into the lives of a family and the choices they make. Francine Rivers' books are always thought-provoking, truthful and linger even after the book has long since been finished.

Rating:
Summary: Another great one...
Review: This is the third wonderful Francine Rivers book I have read. Everytime I pick one up, I keep expecting one of them to disappoint me - - but it hasn't happened yet!!! I was on vacation and stayed up until 3 in the morning trying to figure out what was going to happen to Sierra and Alex - and I still didn't find out til the next day! It was awesome, God has really touched Francine to communicate his love to his people. God bless her for that. Thanks for the wonderful readings.