From time to time I really do find a great book just browsing the shelves at my local library. "Remember to Forget" and "Leaving November" by Deborah Raney were two wonderful discoveries. I am not a big fan of contemporary Christian novels. Unfortunately I find that there is a lack of really good writing out there. Just because a novel has a Christian label on it, does not by any means ensure a well-written and researched book. In fact, I find that most of these kind of novels lack depth or realistic emotions.These two books by Raney were a delight. Good stories about real people with past sins and mistakes who endeavor to work through their "issues" and start over. The setting is the small town of Clayburn, KS that becomes a haven for the main characters. The author did a great job of setting the scene and using descriptive details that made it easy to picture the characters and setting and become engaged in the storyline. A consistent thread of the gospel's transforming power is woven through the books without being "preachy" or seeming to be a required add-on. A good story, not edge of your seat, but heartwarming without being sickly sweet. These stories include a predictable love story, but one that focuses more on the character's personal growth and the very real challenges that exist when two sinners try to build a relationship. Next time I am in the mood for a good old fashioned love story I will track down another of Ms. Raney's books. The third in this series is due out soon.
Check out the author's blog at http://deborahraney.blogspot.com.
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