Randall Arthur

From the heights of fame, the first scene in the book to the completely unexpected ending, the novel had me spellbound. The writing is superb, immersing the reader into the story with vivid imagery and realistic emotions. Randall does not tell the story, but shows it in third person POV.
The Author sakes some challenging questions, that each reader must answer for himself. The one that has resonated in my mind since I finished reading the book is why does the younger generation feel that God's grace is evident in your life if you are successful? The story alludes to the fact that some churches teach that, but I think that even if they do not, young parents seem to feel that is how you know you are right with your Maker.
Cole's story clearly shows the error of this thinking, and though I would think that whoever reads this would also see that, I believe that only those who are open to the Holy Spirit's leading will take this truth to themselves. I unquestionably recommend this to my friends.

I received this book free from Fred at The BookClub Network, the author Randall Arthur and publisher LifeImage in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.… (lisätietoja)

Title: Forgotten Road
Author: Randall Arthur {http://randallarthur.com/}
Pages: 596
Year: 2012
Publisher: Life Image Publishers
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book from www.bookfun.org
It is well worth the time taken by readers to read and enjoy this novel. I believe that many who enjoy a novel that grabs the mind along with the heart will relish some of the themes presented here. One of the encouraging thoughts of the book is the way some characters talk honestly about their walk with the Lord and health of the church. Secondly, I enjoyed the writing because it showed how tragedy can come in the believer’s life along with some of the consequences of making incorrect choices, as well as how to handle the deep pain and grief, but also how God uses it for His glory.
There is also within the pages the truth of giving to others like Christ and not living with an entitlement mentality. Along with this theme is the challenge to acknowledge how the entitlement teachings have contaminated the church. Some may think that once a character receives wrong instruction there can’t ever be redemption through true Biblical teaching, but in this work of fiction we see a character learn to do just that and more.
It was good to see how being saturated in the Word and surrounded by believers can bring about healing along with a new direction in life. To me, this is what God can do: He can take something Satan or life means to take out of believers and instead raise them up to do what, without that lesson, they would never imagine being able to accomplish. The main idea I found encouraging while reading is how we need to live, giving our lives away, doing what God has blessed us with instead of using it to serve the flesh.
The more I read, the more I pondered what the author was sharing through various scenes and characters. While parts were hard to read because they brought heartache, other parts showed God healing the pain and bringing new life to the heart of His children. Here is a novel that does reflect some of the real situations and feelings I have experienced in my walk with the Lord and as a member of the Body of Christ. I sure hope people take the time to read, enjoy and ponder the themes gleaned from Forgotten Road, then give a copy away so others can take the worthwhile journey through the pages!
My rating is 5+ stars.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. 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… (lisätietoja)