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A Chain of Flames
An old and haunted marauder… Tormented by demon voices, Eli Rathebohn is a wounded, lost soul. He’s not really living, he merely exists. Just one heartbeat away from ending his life, Eli decides that he’s not going alone. He’s determined to take an innocent man with him. In the midst of that encounter, God shows up… and Eli is transformed.
A simple man of faith… Johnny James is a civil servant—just a modest police Chaplain in a mid-sized southwestern town. He has no idea that he is about to be tossed so deeply into the fray. How can he possibly be expected to feed thousands, a virtual legion of wanting souls? Johnny has one outstanding qualification for the task—actually 3 in 1: He prays … he listens … he believes.
An auspicious Osage princess… Humiliated by an indiscretion, reporter Denise Grayhorn, daughter of an influential tribal leader, may have ended her own career. In an effort to redeem herself, she accepts a meager assignment. Little does she, or the world, know that this will turn out to be the most sensational news event of the year.
A searcher fallen from grace… Jared Suina has been raised on a Pueblo in New Mexico. Young and educated, he finds himself caught between his heritage and a yearning for something more. Will he find what he’s searching for? Does it even exist? In the center of two worlds, Jared finds more than he ever imagined.
Together these people will come to realize that life is not a single footpath, but a broad interchange. Where souls are linked and mingled, as in a chain of flames.
"A Chain of Flames is a unique debut-novel by Tony Cleaver. Tony weaves together the lives of his characters in a meaningful way that illustrates the untapped power of faith, redemption, and love. A Chain of Flames shows us how the seemingly small things in life can become grand adventures. If not for ourselves, then for others."
A simple man of faith… Johnny James is a civil servant—just a modest police Chaplain in a mid-sized southwestern town. He has no idea that he is about to be tossed so deeply into the fray. How can he possibly be expected to feed thousands, a virtual legion of wanting souls? Johnny has one outstanding qualification for the task—actually 3 in 1: He prays … he listens … he believes.
An auspicious Osage princess… Humiliated by an indiscretion, reporter Denise Grayhorn, daughter of an influential tribal leader, may have ended her own career. In an effort to redeem herself, she accepts a meager assignment. Little does she, or the world, know that this will turn out to be the most sensational news event of the year.
A searcher fallen from grace… Jared Suina has been raised on a Pueblo in New Mexico. Young and educated, he finds himself caught between his heritage and a yearning for something more. Will he find what he’s searching for? Does it even exist? In the center of two worlds, Jared finds more than he ever imagined.
Together these people will come to realize that life is not a single footpath, but a broad interchange. Where souls are linked and mingled, as in a chain of flames.
"A Chain of Flames is a unique debut-novel by Tony Cleaver. Tony weaves together the lives of his characters in a meaningful way that illustrates the untapped power of faith, redemption, and love. A Chain of Flames shows us how the seemingly small things in life can become grand adventures. If not for ourselves, then for others."
- GenresChristian Fiction
315 pages, ebook
First published September 2, 2013
4 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Tony Cleaver
1 book17 followersTony describes himself as a 'refugee' from the city of Flint, Michigan. In the 1970's, his hometown was considered to be the Mecca of America's blue collar workforce. All of that changed in the latter part of that decade when the automobile industry began laying off workers by the Tens of Thousands. An American way of life was changed forever and Tony was there to witness it firsthand.
In the 1980's, as a young man, Tony found himself in Oklahoma City, where he held the dubious honor of being the 'highest earning bartender' in 3 states. So his employers would tolerate his propensity for witnessing to customers, co-workers and on one occasion, a professed Satan worshiper, from across the bar. Tony would tell these people he would encounter about how 'Jesus could change their lives,' and many listened. For this, however, he was denied membership at a local church. The reason? He 'fraternized with sinners.'
In the mid 1990′s, Tony was in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There he broke traditional 'fry-bread' with a very old Native American couple in their modest pueblo home on the reservation. They talked about religions, about 'hospitality,' and about the priceless thousand year old clay pots that lined on their mantle.
In the 2000's Tony was living in Indianapolis, Indiana. He and wife Karen went there knowing that they had no jobs lined up, no house to live in, and no family or friends there to help them. They were about $40,000.00 in debt and they had two small kids in tow... but they also believed that God had sent them. Within less than four years, God not only allowed them to get completely out of debt and buy a house of their own, but they bought several - some for rental properties, and some to fix-up and resell. In both 'paying it back' while 'paying it forward,' Tony continued in his witnessing efforts, speaking to tenants and to those whom he would help to purchase their very own first homes.
In the 2010's Tony and Karen moved to NW Arkansas where they currently live and where they continue to seek God's guidance every day.
Tony Cleaver's debut novel, A Chain Of Flames, is a story about how different people - some on the front of society and some on the fringe - are able to find their way to God . . . or how God leads them, despite their disasters, their difficulties or their levels of malcontent. In creating uniquely rich characters, with intricately interwoven story lines, Tony draws from the extraordinary events of his own personal experiences.
In the 1980's, as a young man, Tony found himself in Oklahoma City, where he held the dubious honor of being the 'highest earning bartender' in 3 states. So his employers would tolerate his propensity for witnessing to customers, co-workers and on one occasion, a professed Satan worshiper, from across the bar. Tony would tell these people he would encounter about how 'Jesus could change their lives,' and many listened. For this, however, he was denied membership at a local church. The reason? He 'fraternized with sinners.'
In the mid 1990′s, Tony was in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There he broke traditional 'fry-bread' with a very old Native American couple in their modest pueblo home on the reservation. They talked about religions, about 'hospitality,' and about the priceless thousand year old clay pots that lined on their mantle.
In the 2000's Tony was living in Indianapolis, Indiana. He and wife Karen went there knowing that they had no jobs lined up, no house to live in, and no family or friends there to help them. They were about $40,000.00 in debt and they had two small kids in tow... but they also believed that God had sent them. Within less than four years, God not only allowed them to get completely out of debt and buy a house of their own, but they bought several - some for rental properties, and some to fix-up and resell. In both 'paying it back' while 'paying it forward,' Tony continued in his witnessing efforts, speaking to tenants and to those whom he would help to purchase their very own first homes.
In the 2010's Tony and Karen moved to NW Arkansas where they currently live and where they continue to seek God's guidance every day.
Tony Cleaver's debut novel, A Chain Of Flames, is a story about how different people - some on the front of society and some on the fringe - are able to find their way to God . . . or how God leads them, despite their disasters, their difficulties or their levels of malcontent. In creating uniquely rich characters, with intricately interwoven story lines, Tony draws from the extraordinary events of his own personal experiences.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 4, 2013
Wow! I was enthralled from the beginning. The twists and turns kept me reading until I realized I had reached the end. I can't wait for your next book.
October 26, 2013
An old and haunted marauder… Tormented by demon voices, Eli Rathebohn is a wounded, lost soul. He’s not really living, he merely exists. Just one heartbeat away from ending his life, Eli decides that he’s not going alone. He’s determined to take an innocent man with him. In the midst of that encounter, God shows up… and Eli is transformed.
A simple man of faith… Johnny James is a civil servant—just a modest police Chaplain in a mid-sized southwestern town. He has no idea that he is about to be tossed so deeply into the fray. How can he possibly be expected to feed thousands, a virtual legion of wanting souls? Johnny has one outstanding qualification for the task—actually 3 in 1: He prays … he listens … he believes.
An auspicious Osage princess … Humiliated by an indiscretion, reporter Denise Grayhorn, daughter of an influential tribal leader, may have ended her own career. In an effort to redeem herself, she accepts a meager assignment. Little does she, or the world, know that this will turn out to be the most sensational news event of the year.
A searcher fallen from grace… Jared Suina has been raised on a Pueblo in New Mexico. Young and educated, he finds himself caught between his heritage and a yearning for something more. Will he find what he’s searching for? Does it even exist? In the center of two worlds, Jared finds more than he ever imagined.
Together these people will come to realize that life is not a single footpath, but a broad interchange. Where souls are linked and mingled, as in a chain of flames.
A Chain of Flames is a unique debut-novel by Tony Cleaver. Tony weaves together the lives of his characters in a meaningful way that illustrates the untapped power of faith, redemption, and love. A Chain of Flames shows us how the seemingly small things in life can become grand adventures. If not for ourselves, then for others.
My Review:
This novel made me realize that everyone has a story. No matter who you are, how much money you have, where you are born, or who your parents are; everyone has a past that demands to be heard. We come in contact with so many people over our lifetime, and too often we run through life thinking only of ourselves and our lives. I personally like to watch people and wonder about their lives and their stories. Cleaver's writing brings this premise to life and shows us that we are linked together like a chain of flames.
The characters come across as vibrant and alive on the page, and they are not just words, but dynamic voices demanding to be heard. I was enthralled by the constant twists and turns, and it was so fascinating to see how their lives are intertwined and weaved together in the intersections of life. An exceptional first book from a new author, Tony Cleaver's book is a gripping work of fate, circumstance, and the true destiny of mankind.
This book was provided by Tony Cleaver for free in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Mr. Cleaver!
A simple man of faith… Johnny James is a civil servant—just a modest police Chaplain in a mid-sized southwestern town. He has no idea that he is about to be tossed so deeply into the fray. How can he possibly be expected to feed thousands, a virtual legion of wanting souls? Johnny has one outstanding qualification for the task—actually 3 in 1: He prays … he listens … he believes.
An auspicious Osage princess … Humiliated by an indiscretion, reporter Denise Grayhorn, daughter of an influential tribal leader, may have ended her own career. In an effort to redeem herself, she accepts a meager assignment. Little does she, or the world, know that this will turn out to be the most sensational news event of the year.
A searcher fallen from grace… Jared Suina has been raised on a Pueblo in New Mexico. Young and educated, he finds himself caught between his heritage and a yearning for something more. Will he find what he’s searching for? Does it even exist? In the center of two worlds, Jared finds more than he ever imagined.
Together these people will come to realize that life is not a single footpath, but a broad interchange. Where souls are linked and mingled, as in a chain of flames.
A Chain of Flames is a unique debut-novel by Tony Cleaver. Tony weaves together the lives of his characters in a meaningful way that illustrates the untapped power of faith, redemption, and love. A Chain of Flames shows us how the seemingly small things in life can become grand adventures. If not for ourselves, then for others.
My Review:
This novel made me realize that everyone has a story. No matter who you are, how much money you have, where you are born, or who your parents are; everyone has a past that demands to be heard. We come in contact with so many people over our lifetime, and too often we run through life thinking only of ourselves and our lives. I personally like to watch people and wonder about their lives and their stories. Cleaver's writing brings this premise to life and shows us that we are linked together like a chain of flames.
The characters come across as vibrant and alive on the page, and they are not just words, but dynamic voices demanding to be heard. I was enthralled by the constant twists and turns, and it was so fascinating to see how their lives are intertwined and weaved together in the intersections of life. An exceptional first book from a new author, Tony Cleaver's book is a gripping work of fate, circumstance, and the true destiny of mankind.
This book was provided by Tony Cleaver for free in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Mr. Cleaver!
September 25, 2013
Right from the first sentence this book pulled me in and kept me reading. This is the story of several different characters, all with their own inner demons and/or concerns. Their stories are told in he first half of the book and this can give it a disparate feel. However, Cleaver's, writing is such that I cared deeply about these characters and wanted to know where their stories were going. The characterisation is vivid giving a real sense that you know them intimately. This can be a slightly unsettling feeling which some of the more unsavoury characters.
About half way through the book the stories start to come together and the suspense and tension rose. Cleaver pulls the strands together expertly which made me wonder why I hadn't seen this before. The overall theme of the book is redemption and the way in which lives can be changed through an intimate relationship with God. This is a Christian book and the Christian message is strong. I loved this book and found myself reading it in a day. I would, therefore, highly recommend.
I was given a copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review. I was no asked to give a positive review and have done so based on my reading, and enjoyment, of the book.
About half way through the book the stories start to come together and the suspense and tension rose. Cleaver pulls the strands together expertly which made me wonder why I hadn't seen this before. The overall theme of the book is redemption and the way in which lives can be changed through an intimate relationship with God. This is a Christian book and the Christian message is strong. I loved this book and found myself reading it in a day. I would, therefore, highly recommend.
I was given a copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review. I was no asked to give a positive review and have done so based on my reading, and enjoyment, of the book.
October 31, 2013
A chain of Flames by Tony Cleaver is an action packed thriller, told with both humor and pathos - with a bit of romance tucked in for good measure. However, this book is much more than that. It is the drawing together of many well developed characters into a plot demonstrating how the spiritual warfare going on around us, though unseen by physical eyes, effects our physical lives; how God works all things together in all creation and how we are a part of the process - from helium to humans ...
I recommend this book to anyone who would like an example of how we each are links in the chain.
I recommend this book to anyone who would like an example of how we each are links in the chain.
October 31, 2013
Tony takes on a significant task when he grabs a gritty story that engages equally gritty characters. As Tony's story progresses, hearts change and circumstances change. What started dirty and veiled transforms to miraculous dedication and a purer heart.
On a Technical Note:
This book is laid out well and Tony is noticeably in control of the story's progression. This is no junk novel and bears living in the minds of all readers. It is well written in format and style. I would recommend this book to many people, saved and unsaved.
On a Technical Note:
This book is laid out well and Tony is noticeably in control of the story's progression. This is no junk novel and bears living in the minds of all readers. It is well written in format and style. I would recommend this book to many people, saved and unsaved.
October 27, 2013
Absolutely loved this book from the moment I picked it up. As a matter of fact I didn't put it down until I was finished. I couldn't wait to see how the author would bring the characters together and i was not disappointed. Bravo! Can't wait to read more by Mr. Cleaver.
June 14, 2024
Needed some things wrapped up at the end
The way the story was told was interesting. Every time I thought the main character was being introduced, we were off on another lark. At the conclusion of the book, I didn’t have a feeling of satisfaction. To me, several scenarios were dangling that should have had a more satisfying explanation.
The way the story was told was interesting. Every time I thought the main character was being introduced, we were off on another lark. At the conclusion of the book, I didn’t have a feeling of satisfaction. To me, several scenarios were dangling that should have had a more satisfying explanation.
December 3, 2013
Eli Rathebohn, a motorcycle-riding, drug dealer, in-over-his-head bad boy.
Chaplain Johnny James, a police chaplain in Las Cruces who, thanks to a recent Fox News story becomes a celebrity.
Jared Suina, Native American who wants to break away from the traditions of his people but also wants to please his family
Denise Grayhorn, a Native American looking for fame as a newscaster with a major news station
What do these four seemingly different people have in common? Their choices have defined who they are. They are struggling to redeem the decisions that have kept them from living a life of joy. Eli Rathebohn may be the darker of the four having sold drugs for a major drug cartel and stashing money away. When he has a spiritual conversion experience, thanks to the unknowing Chaplain Johnny James, he walks away from the life of drugs and finds salvation.
At first, it's difficult to see the connection or the reasons why Rathebohn, Chaplain James, Jared and Denise are included in this story, but each has a part to play in the lives of the others. It's kind of like life. We come in contact with people throughout our lives that seem to have no rhyme or reason, but God has placed them in our life for a purpose. "A Chain of Flames" by Tony Cleaver brings four seemingly random people together, all needing redemption and salvation, and through their connection, each find their purpose in life.
The book is worth reading for the encouragement in God's salvation and offer of redemption we all receive when we seek after it. The tempo of the book is not consistent. Speed comes in waves, at one moment driving along slow to enjoy the scenery and other times speedily because action and life often move that way. I'm hoping for a sequel. It seemed to just end. I want to know what the characters do after the action stops. Do their new jobs, new lives, new towns work out? They really need another adventure.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Chaplain Johnny James, a police chaplain in Las Cruces who, thanks to a recent Fox News story becomes a celebrity.
Jared Suina, Native American who wants to break away from the traditions of his people but also wants to please his family
Denise Grayhorn, a Native American looking for fame as a newscaster with a major news station
What do these four seemingly different people have in common? Their choices have defined who they are. They are struggling to redeem the decisions that have kept them from living a life of joy. Eli Rathebohn may be the darker of the four having sold drugs for a major drug cartel and stashing money away. When he has a spiritual conversion experience, thanks to the unknowing Chaplain Johnny James, he walks away from the life of drugs and finds salvation.
At first, it's difficult to see the connection or the reasons why Rathebohn, Chaplain James, Jared and Denise are included in this story, but each has a part to play in the lives of the others. It's kind of like life. We come in contact with people throughout our lives that seem to have no rhyme or reason, but God has placed them in our life for a purpose. "A Chain of Flames" by Tony Cleaver brings four seemingly random people together, all needing redemption and salvation, and through their connection, each find their purpose in life.
The book is worth reading for the encouragement in God's salvation and offer of redemption we all receive when we seek after it. The tempo of the book is not consistent. Speed comes in waves, at one moment driving along slow to enjoy the scenery and other times speedily because action and life often move that way. I'm hoping for a sequel. It seemed to just end. I want to know what the characters do after the action stops. Do their new jobs, new lives, new towns work out? They really need another adventure.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 11, 2013
I saw the cover and I said to myself, "Uh, oh!" From the description, I saw this is not what I usually read. But the Holy Spirit kept urging me to read it.
Then I started the story and it is marvelous. I don't want to spoil it at all. The characters are beyond quirky and marvelous. The spiritual realities touch truth regularly.
This is a wonderful book
Eli Rathebohn is a depraved biker, who has never recovered from Vietnam, who makes what could only loosely be called a living delivering saddlebags full of drugs across the border from Mexico. His transformation is a real joy.
I don't want to spoil any more of the story, and believe me I haven't yet. But this is a tale of wonder as the Lord brings people together in an event that grabs the media's attention across the nation. The romance between an Osage princess driven toward worldly success and a young Cochiti man who meets the Truth on a peyote vision quest is touching and genuine, but not the focus of the story. The focus is on the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and the infinite love of our Savior.
You'll like this book
One can only pray something like this would really happen, today...
Then I started the story and it is marvelous. I don't want to spoil it at all. The characters are beyond quirky and marvelous. The spiritual realities touch truth regularly.
This is a wonderful book
Eli Rathebohn is a depraved biker, who has never recovered from Vietnam, who makes what could only loosely be called a living delivering saddlebags full of drugs across the border from Mexico. His transformation is a real joy.
I don't want to spoil any more of the story, and believe me I haven't yet. But this is a tale of wonder as the Lord brings people together in an event that grabs the media's attention across the nation. The romance between an Osage princess driven toward worldly success and a young Cochiti man who meets the Truth on a peyote vision quest is touching and genuine, but not the focus of the story. The focus is on the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and the infinite love of our Savior.
You'll like this book
One can only pray something like this would really happen, today...
June 20, 2014
I was sent this book for review and found it well written and thought provoking.
I am not a 'believer' but thought this story to be worthwhile in the theme of redemption and how choices can make huge differences to our lives. It is also amazing how one small event can put us on a path otherwise not taken - but again it is still our choices that are important and the responsibility we must 'own' whatever those choices and consequences of such.
A thought provoking read, despite my own beliefs - an open mind will always be my choice.
I am not a 'believer' but thought this story to be worthwhile in the theme of redemption and how choices can make huge differences to our lives. It is also amazing how one small event can put us on a path otherwise not taken - but again it is still our choices that are important and the responsibility we must 'own' whatever those choices and consequences of such.
A thought provoking read, despite my own beliefs - an open mind will always be my choice.
December 4, 2013
I loved this book, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes to read or wants to draw closer to the Lord. The message of faith & redemption is prominent throughout, and it was very inspiring to me. I am so glad that I read it, and I plan on reading it again in the near future. I believe that each time you read this you will garner new lessons and knowledge. Read it today - you will not be disappointed.
January 3, 2015
I am ashamed to say that this book has been in my kindle since October. I thought the cover looked boring, (that's why they tell you not to judge a book by the cover). I loved it. Laughed, cried, and hated for it to end. A wonderful story of Redemption! Many different characters meet each other and God. I give it 5 stars. Appropriate for Jr high school age and up.
October 15, 2016
Kept my interest
I like reading Christian books. This is one of those with some enlightening thoughts. However, it was predictable but left the reader with loose ends untied.
I like reading Christian books. This is one of those with some enlightening thoughts. However, it was predictable but left the reader with loose ends untied.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews