Take Four

The Strength of Keith Ellison for the calling God has led him to remains in this book and then some! The joy of seeing a young girl , Bailey Flanagan,with Christian morals be rewarded yet still must suffer heartache and loss. Seeing a young man,Brandon Paul, who almost becomes lost in this sinful life only to find peace and a new life. A young mother, Andi Ellison, who battles with shame and great loss but who also finds joy in her decision. These are only a few highlights of this book. Great way to end this Above the Line series!

Karen Kingsbury is truly one of the best christian fiction writers around today, (although Francine Rivers is up there to!) 'Take Four' will not disappoint most fans as it raps up a fine series. In her usual stylish manner she beds difficult and tough life issues into an engaging storyline. I'm sure fans will find this a real page turner - if you can excuse the cliche, and be left inspired. Outside of Karen, Francine Rivers and Janette Oke's romantic christian novels I'd also highly recommend the following: 'Godstone' - a brilliant christian time travel story aimed at teenagers and adults by G.A Williams Godstone - The Kairos Boxes 'A Skeleton in God's closet' - a thriller by Paul Maier 'Chosen Ones' - a Narnia style fantasy by Alister Mcgrath

I have enjoyed all of Karen Kingsbury's books and this was no exception. For me, she has a way of making me feel like I'm a part of the story somehow. There were a few surprising twists in this one, but whose life isn't filled with those? Yes, there are still questions that aren't answered, but I believe they will be in the Bailey Flanigan series. This was an encouraging book and reminded me again that prayer works.

This is a wonderful book about heartache, forgiveness, hope and love. The hurt of seeing a daughter go through a pregnancy and being single, the hope that God would see them through this time in their lives. The hope of finally loving the one an knowing he loves you too and the the heartache when he leaves without explanation. This is a must read for those who have gone through the hurt of a pregnant daughter. God has a way of working things out when we let Him.

I absolutely loved TAKE FOUR. The characters demonstrate their passion for obedience to God through their actions. The family relationships mirror our relationship with Christ, as believers. As an adoptee, I adored the story of Andi and her heartwrenching journey to allow her baby to be adopted by a loving family (The Baxters). Cody Coleman is so relatable in his struggle to accept that God and friends treasure him regardless of sin. Bailey Flanigan is still one of my favorite fictional characters. I have truly enjoyed following her from the Baxter series through Take Four. I am eager for Karen Kingsbury's upcoming series featuring Bailey. I am always encouraged by Christian fiction and I love that Karen Kingsbury addresses the need for Christian influence in other media forms as written in this book. I pray that Christian producers, actors, and directors pursue making films like the characters, Dayne Matthews and Keith Ellison. Thanks Karen for another wonderful book!

The last book in Karen Kingsbury's series delivers a satisfying end to the series. Although you are left wanting more, its coming (Great news!! a new series about Bailey Flanigan) Karen Kingsbury has a way of writing books that are better than any movie that can be made from them - she personalizes each paragraph so you can picture it perfectly in your head. It was particularly satisfying to see Andi return herself to the Lord and feel the connection that she realizes she has done the right thing - and how perfect that her child will find the Baxters!! Knowing that even though you have strayed, that even though costly mistakes are made, the Lord continues to love and uphold you and help you find the right path for you again is so comforting. The entire series has been well worth the read and I am so thankful for Karen Kingsbury - whose novels touch my heart and fill my soul!