Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

A Rush of Wings (A Rush of Wings #1)

4.08 of 5 stars 4.08 · rating details · 1,093 ratings · 83 reviews

Running from terrors both recent and remembered, Noelle flees her New York mansion for the Rocky Mountains, seeking a place to hide from the men who betrayed her. Her sanctuary is a horse ranch, where she discovers solace in the breathtaking scenery she paints. But as the attentions of two brothers slowly soften the wall she hides behind, the past she yearns to escape beco...more

Paperback, 384 pages

Published February 1st 2003 by Bethany House Publishers

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson

Christian Fiction Books That Would Make Great Movies!!!

191st out of 510 books — 398 voters

Inspirational Romances

145th out of 383 books — 130 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 1,904)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Dec 28, 2012 Yiya rated it 5 of 5 stars

A wonderful testimony of how God's perfect love is the only

thing able to change a person's life and heart, A Rush of

Wings has quickly become one of my favorite novels.

Noelle is confused and running away from something she is

not even sure happened. She has always had someone to take

care of her needs and lived the comfortable life riches can

buy. But she is not safe anymore. In her escape, she ends up

in a ranch in Colorado, where she meets Rich and Morgan, two

brothers whose life is turned upside do...more

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 24, 2012 Samantha Jo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

There are some books that you just don’t want to end… can’t put down long enough to swap the cookie trays in the oven… this is one of those books.
Noelle St. Claire (heroine of Ms. Heitzmann’s wonderful book) shakes it up a bit and adds a breath of fresh air to sometimes stale Christian Fiction. Her stubborn streak is a mile wide and the quiet Rick Spencer knows it… there’s no trivial floundering of faith here, the story line cuts right to the heart without being so heavy you leave the Colorado...more

2 likes · like · see review

May 21, 2011 Kathy Davie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance

This is a Christian romance about a troubled young woman fleeing a traumatic event.

The Story

Noelle is the daughter of a very wealthy lawyer, William St. Clair, in New York City recently engaged to a protégé of his, Michael Fallon, a man with hidden issues. Issues which send Noelle fleeing both him and her father as she believes that her father will support Michael as he has supported him throughout his adult life.

She's smart enough to withdraw a stash of cash and runs by bus...any bus...ending u...more

like · see review

Dec 28, 2010 Brenda Casto rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The protagonist in this story is Noelle St. Claire.Although she comes from a wealthy privileged family, she is afraid, and knows she needs to run. With fearful dreams and bits of memory, all she knows is she needs to leave New York if she is ever to feel safe.

When she winds up on a horse ranch in Colorado with Rick and Morgan Spenser, she hopes to find the peace and safety that she needs to heal. While Morgan lives a wild playboy lifestyle, his brother Rick, has a deep faith in God. While Morgan...more

like · see review

Dec 01, 2010 Cafelilybookreviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Kristen Heitzmann is a gifted author and her talent shines through in A Rush of Wings.

This book was interesting because not only is the main character completely out of her element, the story combines ingredients of romance, suspense, action adventure and mystery. Though there is a lot of detail to keep up with, the author has crafted the story to flow well and is able to draw the reader effortlessly into the life of Noelle St. Claire.

At first, I wasn’t sure exactly where the plot was headed b...more

like · see review

Dec 01, 2010 Giovanni Gelati rated it 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t know that this was a repackaged version of her 2003 novel. Previous to getting this, I didn’t know much about her, so please excuse me for featuring something old as new. Nonetheless, there are some novels that stand the test of time, and love, relationships, and broken hearts and seem as timeless as a Frankie Vallie single. Here is what is going on in the novel, check it out:
“Running from terrors both recent and remembered, Noelle flees her New York mansion for the Rocky Mountains, se...more I didn’t know that this was a repackaged version of her 2003 novel. Previous to getting this, I didn’t know much about her, so please excuse me for featuring something old as new. Nonetheless, there are some novels that stand the test of time, and love, relationships, and broken hearts and seem as timeless as a Frankie Vallie single. Here is what is going on in the novel, check it out:
“Running from terrors both recent and remembered, Noelle flees her New York mansion for the Rocky Mountains, seeking a place to hide from the men who betrayed her. Her sanctuary is a horse ranch, where she discovers solace in the breathtaking scenery she paints. But as the attentions of two brothers slowly soften the wall she hides behind, the past she yearns to escape becomes a menacing threat she cannot deny. Will Noelle find courage to give her broken heart to the One whose perfect love casts out all fear? Kristen Heitzmann skillfully creates a story resonating with emotion and a poignant spiritual journey.”
I will give it that. This novel is a very nice journey and I glad I got to take the ride. Kristen Heitzmann knows how to speak to the heart and soul with her writing. If you check out my archives here at Gelati’s Scoop you will see a very different mix of novels than what we have been featuring in the past. When I get something like A Rush of Wings mixed in here it is a serious dip on the week’s reading: by that I mean on the roller coaster ride I get to take each week. Going from the mystery/thriller genre to graphic novels, digital short stories to reading a wholly heart wrenching novel that raises many different questions is more fun than I thought it would be. The Christian value theme she has running throughout the novel has just the right touch to it: not to preachy, hits the right points, and totally fits in.
A Rush of Wings was a very nice read and made me pause and evaluate some things in my life, reflect on the little things a bit more, and be thankful for much more. Kristen Heitzmann and Noelle are worth the time and the journey, even though it was long overdue.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Shelfari & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, Wattpad and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Amazon Banner on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com

(less)

like · see review

Nov 25, 2010 Leah rated it 3 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Okay, so the cover of this book doesn't look too promising, but the content kept me reading for a four- hour-stretch last weekend--perhaps that's why I now have a cold: I was reading when I should have been sleeping! And I'm guessing that since the cover of Indivisible, Heitzmann's most recent novel, looks NOTHING like the others, her publishers must have hired a new cover artist. A good idea, indeed!

Three stars may not be the best rating for A Rush of Wings, but because I now have its sequel in...more

like · see review

Nov 14, 2010 Ruth rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book is billed a Christian romantic suspense and it lives up to all three parts of that billing. While at first I thought this would be one of those Christian novels where "Christian" meant blessings before meals and a mention that they attended church on Sunday, but the end of the book it was very much one of those where the characters had to make their peace with God before they could live happily ever after. It is romantic, well because there is a girl and three guys who want her. Suspen...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 06, 2010 Laverne Ombadykow rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is a Christian fiction book with lots of suspense and romance. The main female character had a childhood trauma, which made it hard for her to trust anyone and caused her to have an inaccurate picture of who God is. She ran from her wealthy, controlling father and manipulative fiancée to a ranch in Colorado. The owner of the ranch was a man who loved God and desired to do His will. His brother, who was visiting the ranch for some rest and relaxation, was a successful businessman wanting to...more

like · see review

Dec 04, 2010 Proud Book Nerd rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bethany-house, faith-based-fiction, romance, suspense

A Rush of Wings is a novel that captures the reader's attention from the very beginning. There's no narrative, descriptive introduction; the book opens with action. Noelle is running away. But from what? That's not quite clear –to the readers or to Noelle herself. Thankfully, little tidbits of information regarding what is going on are dropped throughout like Hansel and Gretel's breadcrumbs, leaving the reader satisfied that the answers to her questions are just around the bend. Fortunately, I n...more A Rush of Wings is a novel that captures the reader's attention from the very beginning. There's no narrative, descriptive introduction; the book opens with action. Noelle is running away. But from what? That's not quite clear – to the readers or to Noelle herself. Thankfully, little tidbits of information regarding what is going on are dropped throughout like Hansel and Gretel's breadcrumbs, leaving the reader satisfied that the answers to her questions are just around the bend. Fortunately, I never once felt like I was being strung along. Each breadcrumb was just enough to satisfy me until the next bite was dropped. By the very end, the biggest answer isn't a huge surprise, but isn't something I found myself completely sure of either. I like that it wasn't too predictable. There were enough believable turns that I never fully saw anything coming, but there weren't so many that I grew frustrated.

In general, I really enjoyed this book, but Noelle annoyed me a lot at times. She's a SUPER-spoiled, SUPER-rich woman who is also SUPER-stubborn and SUPER-stupid at times. I get that she's running. I get that she's scared. But, I don't get why she doesn't EVER see reason. If I was coming from the big city into small-town Colorado, I'd be much more inclined to listen to the locals' warnings about things. But, by the latter third of the book, I no longer found myself wanting to yell at her. Perhaps that means she's teachable ...

I do have to say I just loved that Rick and Morgan's family lives in Iowa. Her reaction to a Midwestern family during the holidays was really neat to see. As a Midwestern girl myself, I was especially able to appreciate it.

I like how faith was central, but not overbearing. I did not like how Noelle was basically seeing Rick as "God" to her. And seeing him struggle through a faith crisis was touching. It's hard to see anyone hurt that much, but I think it hits home more seeing someone previously so strong, so grounded, in his faith end up struggling as he did. None of the characters in this book are outlandish or completely unbelievable. Well, except maybe Michael. Are there really people like him out there? I don't know.

Anyway, I really enjoyed this book. Several months ago I had read Heitzmann's Indivisible and was somewhat disappointed. I am so glad that this one lived up to its promise, and I'll definitely be looking to read more by this author.(less)

like · see review

Nov 13, 2010 Edna Tollison rated it 3 of 5 stars

Noelle St. Claire has left from her home on her father's estate in New York. She doesn't know where she is going, but has to get away from something that she fears but can not put a finger on what it is. She end up in Colorado and finds a place to stay at a ranch owned by Rick Spencer. Will she find a chance to just be herself and not be afraid of what she ran away from?

This book is an ok read but Noelle is a spoiled rich young woman that has everything she has ever wanted at her finger tips a...more

like · see review

Feb 25, 2011 Trinity Rose rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I’ve read many of Kristen Heitzmann’s books and love them all. This one A Rush of Wings is one of her best.
Right from the start you really fall in love with Noelle, Rick, Morgan and Marta. When a book starts like this “Noelle pressed her back into the textured wall and tensed, her breathing fast and shallow” you know it is going to be a fantastic book to read. I really hated for A Rush of Wings to end. Such a book, full of fear, nightmares, safety, peace, love and hope.
A Rush of Wings is an aval...more

like · see review

Jan 28, 2011 Jodie rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, bethany-house

Noelle St. Claire is on the run, but from what? Scattered images and memories come to her causing Noelle to leave behind all her wealth and upscale living in New York for a "hideaway." When Noelle arrives at a ranch in the Rocky Mountains she meets brothers Rick and Morgan Spencer. The brothers are very opposite in their character but both have the same intentions, trying to help Noelle. As they grow close to Noelle, she once again is haunted by the mysterious images of the hawk. Can the two bro...more

like · see review

Apr 06, 2010 April rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

OK, this is how faith fiction should be written to appeal to a wider audience. A Rush of Wings begins with the heroine running -- from what, you don't know at first, but it sets up enough suspense to get you going and wondering throughout the book what happened to make her flee.

The heroine then finds herself settling in a town where she can stay off the grid and not be found by her fiancé and her father, men with the money and power to find her and bring her back, which she's determined to preve...more OK, this is how faith fiction should be written to appeal to a wider audience. A Rush of Wings begins with the heroine running -- from what, you don't know at first, but it sets up enough suspense to get you going and wondering throughout the book what happened to make her flee.

The heroine then finds herself settling in a town where she can stay off the grid and not be found by her fiancé and her father, men with the money and power to find her and bring her back, which she's determined to prevent from happening. She manages to rent a room at a ranch home, where the owner rents out cabins to Christian families during the summer. This is where the faith part of the fiction is very subtly introduced so that you're not knocked on the head with it like a sledgehammer. The ranch owner himself is very strong in his faith and keeps pretty much to himself, unassuming and dependable. He has rented the room out to the heroine at a ridiculously low rate because he believes she could use the help. The owner's brother, who isn't a religious type, is there for the summer as well and unsuccessfully tries to woo her during her stay there.

The story moves at a nice, easy pace -- slow, but not too slow, just slow enough to make the heroine's change and acceptance of faith very gradual, natural, realistic, and most importantly believable to a skeptic. The author maintains the suspense at the beginning of the book by alternating the POVs so that for the most part we follow the heroine, and every now and then we find out how things are with the fiancé and father that she left at home, and more and more, we find out about the heroine's background. She's extremely well educated, having grown up with all the privileges a pampered child could ever ask for, but she's also had some trauma, which to this day drives her without her realizing it.

In fact, her traumatic experience is part of what drove her to flee in the first place, and later, it's what compels her to find peace with her mother's memory and her mother's sole comfort, religion. It helps, also, that the ranch owner, whom she sees as the calm in any storm, looks to his faith for nearly all of the big things. Her need for that peace and calm allows her to see him as a potential life mate and faith as a way of life. It was actually very fascinating to watch her character arc. It seemed like the most natural thing, even though she started out as a cynic educated on all the world's religions. If a person like that can turn to Christianity, it would be in exactly that way.

As a result, I never felt as though the book was preaching to me. As a romance, it was fairly tame, but sweet and slow and deep. A great deal happens in the book plot-wise, but I never felt crammed or rushed. The characters make both good and bad choices, and the effect on their psyches is just plain interesting.

Plus, I liked the writing -- for the most part. There was only one instance where I did a double take and thought it needed a little more editing, and I marked it on my Kindle copy -- the beginning of Chapter 16:

"Something pressed on her eyelids like weights, and then she realized it was her eyelids."

Um, yeah.

The rest, however, was smooth reading. A character dies later in the book, and I might have wanted to see how that went down simply because he was one of the main characters, but that was the only lack I saw in the plot.

For the most part, a fine read.

Downloaded March 16, 2010. Finished reading March 27, 2010.(less)

like · see review

Nov 17, 2010 Mary Ford rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: i-own

I found Rush of Wings to be delightfully contemporary and I was hooked from the first sentence. Normally an author beating me over the head with certain facts or long descriptions will make me put down a book in disgust. During the first part of the book I did feel like the author over-stressed the kind of background Noelle came from. If the repeated mentions of how everything wasn’t what she was used to was supposed to indicate that she was spoiled then it failed. All it really did was make me...more I found Rush of Wings to be delightfully contemporary and I was hooked from the first sentence. Normally an author beating me over the head with certain facts or long descriptions will make me put down a book in disgust. During the first part of the book I did feel like the author over-stressed the kind of background Noelle came from. If the repeated mentions of how everything wasn’t what she was used to was supposed to indicate that she was spoiled then it failed. All it really did was make me roll my eyes and mentally shout “OK I GET IT, SHE’S USED TO BEING IN NICER SURROUNDINGS”.

I couldn’t stay away from the book though and even though I guessed early on what had happened to her that she was suppressing it didn’t diminish the power of the story or my enjoyment of it. The language was beautiful and evocative, there were many times I could see the sweeping mountain ranges and beauty that was all around her while she was at the ranch.

I really enjoyed the characters, though the feelings Morgan developed for Noelle seemed to happen really fast. Not any different than numerous romance novels but it did feel a little bit off. Yet I still really liked Morgan and his fun ways. I absolutely loved Rick; by far he is one of the best male leads in a Christian novel that I’ve read in a long time. His rock solid stability and certainty were peppered with just enough flaws, doubts, and mistakes that it made him very real. Michael was probably the best developed and most memorable of the book, even though he was the antagonist. I think if the author had developed her other characters to the points he did Michael than she would have a solid five star rating from me.

I have to say the one thing that really and truly bugged me more than anything else about this book was Noelle’s lack of being able to take care of herself. I can understand it to a certain point but things that happened towards the end made me instantly dislike her. I get that she’s supposed to be vulnerable and fragile and probably even supposed to represent what a life without God can be like (starving, lost, prideful, sick…spiritually these are all things we are without Him in our lives). I don’t know, perhaps it’s just me and the fact that I really like my heroines to be a little more strong than that.

Overall I did really like this book though, the story swept me along. Made me laugh, cry and rejoice. Overall I fell in love with the characters and I didn’t feel like the pacing dragged at all. The characters were real people and their struggle struck me as more real than some of the other Christian books that have come across my bookshelf. I don’t know anyone in real life where the answers are presented immediately just because they’ve finally turned to God; after all that’s what faith is about. Knowing that He’s there for you and everything will work out according to His plan even if He isn’t throwing obvious answers at your feet.(less)

like · see review

Nov 28, 2010 Wendi rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A Rush of Wings
By Kristen Heitzmann
Published by Bethany House

Nearly paralyzed with fear, Noelle St. Claire escapes the only world she has ever known. With little more than the clothes on her back, Noelle disappears into the Rocky Mountains, renting a room at the Spencer horse ranch where she hopes to blend in and make a new life for herself.

Of the two Spencer brothers, Morgan Spencer is immediately taken with Noelle, her aloof manner tantalizing and her stunning beauty intoxicating. Exuberant a...more

like · see review

Nov 18, 2010 Evelyn Cox rated it 3 of 5 stars

I didn't LOVE this book, but I liked it pretty well. The storyline kept me enraptured, and I stayed up way too late reading as I didn't want to put the book down. Near the end I felt that things began dragging a little bit, and the ending was a predictable and cheesy one, but other than that, this book was great. I was pulled into Noelle's world, confused and worried like her, and found myself taken with Rick, even before she was. The book gives a small-town cozy feel, and would be perfect read...more

like · see review

Nov 06, 2012 April Erwin rated it 5 of 5 stars

I loved this novel. Every image is carefully formed to be crystal clear, where you can smell the dusty horses and see the gold aspen leaves against the clear blue sky. The characters are fully fleshed and compelling. Even Rick and Morgan's extended family. Although the Christmas spent with the Spencer family almost felt too perfect, it was a good contrast for the life Noelle used to lead; showing her just how different life could be with Jesus as your Savior. It made me wish I could celebrate wi...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 06, 2011 Lindsey rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am in love with this book! I can't wait untill I can get my hands on the rest of the serries. I don't usally like books that talk about faith, but this one really pulled me in. Althought, I was not pulled in untill the half way mark. Because of that fact, I don't plan to read more from this author. I can relate to how she feels, seeing as how i was molested many years as a young child by my two of my family members. The love triangle that is going on made me yell at the book from time to time....more

like · see review

Oct 18, 2012 Laura rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow! A recent donation to our church library, I picked up this and one other of hers to review for appropriateness for our library. Loved it! These are exactly the kinds of books I love to read. Drama, suspense, a little romance... right up my alley. Leaves me cheering for God as the victor and with new thoughts, ideas and convictions about how I need to keep God in first place in my lift. When done, I went straight to the public library and ordered in several more of her books, intending to rea...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 16, 2010 Julie Smith (Knitting and Sundries) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed

We first meet Noelle at a bus terminal, fleeing from ... something ... she can't quite remember. The images are fragmented and broken, but it appears that her former fiancee Michael, her father's protege', has something to do with it.

Noelle eventually finds her way to a Colorado mountain town that appeals to her. She inquires at a local shop, and is told of two places that may have space to rent to her. The first is a rundown house. The second entails a hike up the mountain to a horse ranch, whe...more We first meet Noelle at a bus terminal, fleeing from ... something ... she can't quite remember. The images are fragmented and broken, but it appears that her former fiancee Michael, her father's protege', has something to do with it.

Noelle eventually finds her way to a Colorado mountain town that appeals to her. She inquires at a local shop, and is told of two places that may have space to rent to her. The first is a rundown house. The second entails a hike up the mountain to a horse ranch, where she meets two brothers, Rick (the owner) and Morgan. Rick runs a Christian ranch, and his guests arrive by word-of-mouth. Unfortunately, the cottages are booked up for the season, but Morgan talks his brother into letting Noelle rent a room at the main house, which goes against Rick's policy of letting rooms to single female guests; however, for some reason, Rick feels that Noelle is in need of a safe place.

As Morgan attempts to woo Noelle, she welcomes his friendship, but rejects his advances. Afraid to use her credit cards or pull money from the bank for fear of being traced, Noelle finds a way to make her own way by selling her artwork at a local shop.

Michael Fallon, her ex-fiancee', is enraged that Noelle would leave. In his mind, he loves her, and what happened between them was an isolated incident. He sets one of his former clients to work tracking her.

William St. Claire, Noelle's father, is worried, but Noelle HAD left a message for him letting him know she was all right. He can't figure out why she was calling from a small town in Ohio, but she is twenty-three, and old enough to make up her own mind. He keeps this information to himself, as he puzzles over how much Michael had to do with her decision to leave. He has kept Noelle safe and sheltered since a frightening incident when she was five years old, but maybe it's time for her to spread her wings.

For me, this story was a bit saccharine, but that's just my own reading taste. Even understanding that Noelle had something bad happen to her didn't help me feel a lot of sympathy for a fragile personality that could so easily break apart because of one incident. Later on, with the understanding that the incident when she was five made her fragile to begin with, I understood a bit more, but I think I'm much more attracted to strong female characters.

There is some romance and suspense, and we finally gain an understanding of why Noelle is so set against God and religion in general.

QUOTES

Who was the real Noelle? What did Morgan hope to see? The person she had been? The helpless, pleasing, dutiful person others rules? She had left her behind as a snake sheds its skin, leaves it lying useless in the sand.

Now the last of her resistance melted and she surrendered to the incredible love. The sadness was still deep inside her and the knowledge that she might never recover what she'd lost as a five-year-old child. But she no longer faced it alone.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 22, 2010 Kate rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: received-for-review

I tend to shy away from contemporary books that depict cowboys (no offense to those who love cowboys in books, they just aren't my favorite), but I decided to give this one a try because it is by an author that I have previously read and enjoyed (Kristen Heitzmann - The Rose Legacy). I'm really glad I did--the cowboys in this contemporary Christian romantic suspense novel didn't seem stereotypical to me, and it turned out to be a fantastic read!

The way that the reader is introduced to Noelle lea...more I tend to shy away from contemporary books that depict cowboys (no offense to those who love cowboys in books, they just aren't my favorite), but I decided to give this one a try because it is by an author that I have previously read and enjoyed (Kristen Heitzmann - The Rose Legacy). I'm really glad I did--the cowboys in this contemporary Christian romantic suspense novel didn't seem stereotypical to me, and it turned out to be a fantastic read!

The way that the reader is introduced to Noelle leaves a lot of questions needing answers. Neither the reader nor Noelle know exactly what (or who) she's running from at first. All we know is that she is scared out of her wits and looking for someplace to hide for a while. Rick Spencer doesn't seem too happy to have her boarding at his ranch, but he also can tell that she is scared of something so he breaks his own rules and lets her stay in one of the rooms in the main house. Rick and his brother Morgan are two very different men, and they both develop feelings for Noelle. And while she has feelings for both brothers as well, making a decision on one of them results in very strained relations within their family.

The danger and evil that Noelle was running from eventually hunts her down and provides a suspenseful and frightening climax in the story. But the story has become more complex by then and must continue on. With the danger gone, Noelle must decide whether she would rather remain with the Spencers or return to her old life in New York. It takes her a year to make that decision, during which the man who loves her is heartbroken and seriously questions his faith. Even with the danger out of the way by this point, the suspense is ratcheted up again as they both struggle with their faith, their decisions, and their hearts, wondering if they will be able to pick up the pieces.

A Rush of Wings was originally published in 2003 and has been reprinted with a pretty new cover in 2010. This was a fabulous choice for reprinting by Bethany House. The suspense was great, the romance bittersweet, and the faith aspects very thought-provoking. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense.(less)

like · see review

Aug 03, 2011 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A Rush of Wings is yet another Kristen Heitzmann suspense novel that I dived into with great expectations and really enjoyed. There wasn’t as much edge-of-your-seat suspense that I usually like, but I still had a great time reading about Noelle and Rick’s adventures.

Noelle was a very uncertain character in the beginning. Dealing with a bit of abuse, her mind violently reacts with images and flashbacks to something she can’t name. In fear, she runs, severing all ties with her former life and ren...more A Rush of Wings is yet another Kristen Heitzmann suspense novel that I dived into with great expectations and really enjoyed. There wasn’t as much edge-of-your-seat suspense that I usually like, but I still had a great time reading about Noelle and Rick’s adventures.

Noelle was a very uncertain character in the beginning. Dealing with a bit of abuse, her mind violently reacts with images and flashbacks to something she can’t name. In fear, she runs, severing all ties with her former life and rent out a room on Rick’s ranch. I grew to sympathize with Noelle and all the confusion she held. Her father was one I warmed to quickly—I enjoyed it when his scenes came around. Rick’s quiet, but ever steady-going nature, was inviting and it didn’t take me long to start cheering for him to break through Noelle’s walls. There were two people I couldn’t stand—Michael and Morgan. While Michael is, in some ways, made out to be the bad guy, Morgan wasn’t so much…but I couldn’t stand his pushy and partying nature.

While I enjoyed the adventure and sweet love story wrapped up in this book, I did have a few problems with it. The biggest was all the kissing. Not that there was a lot, but Noelle kissed both Rick and Morgan. Even after she’d settled with one of the brothers, when they returned from their wedding, the other brother greeted her with a smack on the lips. Maybe it’s just me, but I see kissing as something people who love each would do…not just to throw away recklessly. It wasn’t presented in a bad way…but I just didn’t care for it. The other problem was Rick losing faith. I was really disappointed to see him turn his back on God after Noelle left…from getting to know him through this novel, I had seen him as a much stronger man. Sure, he would’ve been heartbroken at Noelle’s leaving, but I thought he would totally throw himself on God and grow closer to Him as a result.

The writing, in true Heitzmann style, is gripping, engaging, and so vivid. Everything comes to life in her novels and in A Rush of Wings, the mountains where Noelle found sanctuary was so vividly portrayed…I could almost see the beauty right in front of my eyes.
I was really happy with the way the book ended. Everything was resolved, Noelle overcame her fears, true love was found, and although one brother was heartbroken over not winning Noelle, I was happy with the outcome. (He’ll get over it! ;-) It’s not my all-time favorite Heitzmann—as there isn’t a bunch of hold-your-breath action—but it is definitely a good one by her. Keep ‘em coming, Kristen!(less)

like · see review

Nov 29, 2010 Sara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-fiction, received-for-review, christian-fiction-romance

This is the first book I’ve read by Kristen Heitzmann and I’m glad to say that I won’t be my last! Suspense is one of my favorite genres and when you add a bit of romance into the mix, I’m hooked. This book has a fast paced and intense plot which is what kept drawing me to this book chapter after chapter.

Heitzmann did an excellent job of building suspense by only revealing bits of Noelle’s traumatic childhood past at a time. As I read the book, I had my ideas about what happened to Noelle, but...more

like · see review

Oct 23, 2010 Carissa rated it 2 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. This book had a lot of potential. I read a lot of Christian fiction and I get really tired of reading the same storyline that usually focuses around a miscommunication between the main characters or a dramatic conversion story. This author came up with a unique storyline that kept me guessing. It was more of a mystery/romance that dealt with a serious subject.

That being said, I thought that the authors' writing was more than aggravating. The author constantly used simple, repetitive, and long de...more This book had a lot of potential. I read a lot of Christian fiction and I get really tired of reading the same storyline that usually focuses around a miscommunication between the main characters or a dramatic conversion story. This author came up with a unique storyline that kept me guessing. It was more of a mystery/romance that dealt with a serious subject.

That being said, I thought that the authors' writing was more than aggravating. The author constantly used simple, repetitive, and long descriptions in her writing. That's not a good combination! She included many unnecessary details and facts. For instance, do I really need to read about the different steps to making bread? How did that add to the storyline??? The author also spent way too much writing time with the characters' thoughts. After reading about 10% of the book, I fell into an easy pattern of reading the dialog and then skimming through the book until there was more dialog. I followed the storyline just fine this way and was relieved from some of the boredom. Her writing was more than tiresome. The author could have easily shaved off 1/2 of the book and been fine.

Although I liked that the plot was different for Christian fiction, I thought that the author executed it very poorly. I didn't feel like any of the characters were fully developed. Although some were definitely more developed than others. I thought that Morgan was too vague. His character seemed to have a lot of depth but the author always kept him at a distance and seemed to only insert him when the storyline dragged. Also, Noelle was too much the damsel in distress for my taste. I understand that she went through a trauma but I like my heroines to have a little more pluck then she did. She was just screaming "helpless" and "fragile". Spoiler alert: She literally would have starved to death if Rick hadn't saved her! After always needing Rick to come to her rescue, couldn't she have at least come to him at the end of the book? Instead, Rick found the courage to approach her and she weakly said, "okay" to his marriage proposal. Please. The author built up the plot and then rushed the ending. It left me very unsatisfied. I thought that it was an easy-out to have Michael commit suicide.

Overall, the book definitely plunged into different territory for Christian fiction. If you can get over the author's writing or become an expert at skimming, this book could be enjoyable... maybe. (less)

like · see review

Nov 29, 2010 Literary rated it 4 of 5 stars

Overall, this book was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It is not mainly a love story, but there is love in it. I would say that this book is mainly about a young woman who has had traumatic experiences and ends up finding herself in a place that is in complete contrast with everything she knows. She matures emotionally and mentally and is finally able to create her own persona. By doing that, she has finally come to accept who she is, can now begin to work through what has happened to her and is st...more

like · see review

Sep 06, 2012 Selah Bell rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian, romance

Noelle St. Clair is running. She's getting away from her fiance who beats her, and the Father who tries to control her life. She goes to a ranch by a Christian in the mountains, and finds a safety she's never felt before. Rick, the man who owns the ranch, and his brother Morgan try to get her out of her shell, but a serious accident and the arrival of a nemesis shake things up a bit. Can Noelle ever stop hiding?

like · see review

Apr 23, 2010 Eddie Snipes rated it 4 of 5 stars

Okay, its a chick book, so don't tell anyone I read it. This book is well worth the read. It has a strong, but not overpowering Christian message. I have a hard time enjoying books that have more church jargon than a word search in fifth grade Sunday School.

Heitzmann did a great job of weaving faith into the story while painting the characters as real humans with short comings and struggles.

like · see review

Nov 05, 2012 Maritza rated it 5 of 5 stars

I can only say that once again Kristen has done it again.....after reading the Michelli family series , and loving it so much I was excited to read something else by this same author.....this book was beautiful! It had suspense, romance, drama, healing, forgiveness and the best part was that it showed howGod really moves in mysterious ways for His glory....loved this book!

1 like · like · see review

Jul 27, 2012 Kelly rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was another book that was hard to put down. The hurt and terrified girl running from a violent past ends up hiding on a ranch in Colorado where she meets to handsome, but very different brothers, both who fall in love with her. I couldn't wait to see what would happen and was so happy to finish the story of one of the brothers in the sequel!

1 like · like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 63 64 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend it | Stats | Recent status updates

combine
Other Editions (10)

More editions...

Genres

Christian Fiction

47 users

Romance

22 users

Christian

22 users

Inspirational

9 users

Romance > Christian Romance

8 users

Contemporary

6 users

Adult Fiction

3 users

Suspense

3 users

Womens Fiction > Chick Lit

3 users

Romance > Contemporary Romance

2 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Kristen Heitzmann

Kristen learned to read at age four in the sit-on-the-floor school her father taught at home. That was the start of her love affair with stories. Skipping kindergarten, she went to first grade at five and dove into learning with a passion. In elementary school, she wrote and illustrated her own miniature books and the highlight of the week was the mile and a half walk to the book mobile.

A bit of a...more

More about Kristen Heitzmann...

Books by Kristen Heitzmann

Unforgotten (The Michelli Family Series #2)

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About A Rush of Wings

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

title link	preview: A Rush of Wings
avg rating	preview: A Rush of Wings Goodreads rating: 4.08 (1093 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/226730.A_Rush_of_Wings?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348448809l/226730.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/226730.A_Rush_of_Wings?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heitzmann[/url]

A Rush of Wings (A Rush of Wings #1)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website