Most people believed Isaac had a death wish…Living with the guilt and memories of not being able to save the lives of his wife and unborn child had made his life unbearable.Having his family taken from him was supposed to be his warning…instead, it was the beginning of his mission to wipe out every injustice possible. Taking on a dangerous career, living on the edge, was the only way he could live with himself.Was he destined to be guilt-ridden, bitter, and lonely? How long would God allow him to live in such misery?This kind of life left no room for a wife. The dream of a family was beyond his reach… or was it?
Lynne Lanning has such an effortless way of evoking emotion from her readers. Her characters are so realistic that the reader can feel their pain during trials and their joy during triumphs. Reviews state: "...it's as if Mrs. Lanning lived through this herself." "Couldn't put it down..." "A real page turner." Lynne enjoys turning history and her love of God into enjoyable, relatable stories with practical life lessons that can benefit people today. Each story tells of true bonds of love and loyalty, mixed with tough times and decisions, with a twist of humor and sometimes devastation...the same is true in life. With a blend of her own family members and heritage along with lots of fiction, it's hard to tell where reality stops and fantasy begins.
The story is a clean historical Western with Christian elements. The story has a fun cast of characters and interactions. The story will revolve around Judge Isaac Steiner and Mandy Mae Hunt. It has been four years since Isaac has been back to his hometown, where his family lives, and where he lost his wife and child. Now, he is asked to preside over cases in that district. He will have to face his past, his present, and what could be his future—but first, he has to learn that it isn’t in his hands, but in the hands of God.
Evil in the world exists, and Isaac and his wife, Adora paid the price. Isaac will lose what matters to him, his wife, and his unborn child to the ruthless Neil gang. He has hardened his heart to love, never wanting to place another woman in that position. But in doing so, he has forgotten that fate isn’t in his hands. Will he be able to let go and let God take control?
Mandy Mae Hunt sees beyond the rough man when she sees Isaac, Bill, and Tony come into town. Unlike her friends, she is impressed with the man she sees. Mandy Mae has waited for the right man, and she believes it to be Isaac, and prays for him and about him, but it won’t be an easy journey.
“He’s not scary. He’s brave.”
Mandy: I believe in honesty and doing the right thing even when it’s not the easy way. Isaac: Well, seems we may have something in common.
“Beautiful, intelligent, witty, and absolutely intriguing. Yes, Lord, I guess I’m fascinated with her. But I still don’t see how I could ever have a relationship with anyone. That, You have yet to show me.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the evil of people. Isaac is a changed man since the death of Adora, but he is still a fair judge. He may be more compassionate and understanding than most and even comes to the defense of someone during a trial. He looks scraggly, dangerous, and off-putting to some, but not everyone. Having Mandy Mae turn his head, and see that she is interested in him is confusing and has him off his game—which is never good when danger could be around the corner. He is afraid to even allow himself to think of a future, knowing that he could place her in danger—but is that fair to her? And what about trusting God?
Isaac: The men who killed my wife let me live, knowing that would cause more suffering than if they had killed me. I can’t let that happen again. I hope you understand. I just missed having some female companionship, but I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t want to see me again. It’s risky for you to even be seen with me. Mandy: You aren’t trying to get out of taking me to the social, are you? Isaac: Well, umm, no. I just wanted to give you the chance to run. Mandy: Hmph. Maybe I should tell you a few things about myself. I don’t quit. I don’t back down. I don’t run.
The story does have moments of life and death danger, and it challenges Isaac to believe he can never be with a woman and put her in danger. Yet, many others have shown him that life isn’t always something we can control. We have to trust God—and live life one day at a time, serving Him, and trusting Him.
“My advice to you is to follow where the Lord leads you. Don’t let fear and worry cloud what plans He has for you.”
This was a fun story with strong Christian principles without being preachy. I liked the characters, the challenges they face, and how they discover that with God, all things are possible. In the end, we do get the coveted happy ending and answers to prayers—for more than one couple.
Isaac is very driven and blinkered, he sees only the path they are on but fortunately Tony and Bill can see the other options and opportunities. They also know the best way to convince Isaac is to plant the seed and allow it to grow. Despite his fears and wariness in moving forward in his private life, I love that Isaac is so fair in his court room, he doesn't hesitate to call out the lawyers and to make an example of those taking advantage of others, showing a confidence few others are capable of. I love how calm and patient Mandy Mae is, she may have moments of unsurety but once she realises it really is Isaac's insecurities and fears that are holding him back, she digs her heels in and stands strong - exactly what Isaac needs. A sweet read on Kindle Unlimited.
Poor Isaac! He's had a rough life, and now he has to contend with his emotions too. Having seen how dangerous his job is, a wife is the last thing he wants.... Until suddenly, he meets someone special who makes him question everything. A terrific read!
Every book of hers gets better and better. Started reading and couldn't stop till I read the last page. Supper was late. It's good my husband loves me. A great story of listening to God and obeying His will.
Isaac had his world yanked out from under him. He went from being a practicing lawyer to being a circuit judge. His life was a dangerous one, leaving enemies all over. How could he ever love again? But, God have other plans for Isaac. He threw the one woman in front of him with the patience to break down those walls Isaac had put up between himself and true happiness. Isaac asked God for guidance, and eventually, he got the message and life for him was truly worth living again. He ended up with all he had ever wanted: a family to love.
The West certainly could have used more judges like Isaac, hopefully without having to go through his losses and pain. I loved how Isaac did his best to follow God’s leading, like most of us, wanting to tell Him how to do things. We get faith, romance, danger and humor in this book. I really enjoyed it.
A wonderful story. It was heartbreaking to have Isaac go through his loss and continue to carry his guilt for four years. God is so good by using Sarah's friend to open his eyes and his heart to the fact that he deserved love. Let's get a story for Barry, his mom and Mr. Bivens. A great read, so enjoyable.
What a story the twist and turns makes for a great reading.Isaac is so afraid of falling in love but the love of a good women who is determined to show him that love is what he needs. A great story.
I enjoyed the book! Isaac’s wife had been killed by outlaws. He left town and became a judge. After 4 years, he had to back to his hometown with his two bodyguards. He was attracted to one of his sister’s friends but felt that his life was too dangerous to marry. He prayed for a long time about what to do. His sister’s friend would not give up on him. There is some drama in the story. This is a clean wholesome book. I highly recommend reading this book!
Isaac’s Integrity, part of the multi-author Winning His Devotion series, is an engaging, faith-filled western romance novella. The story flows at a fitting pace immersed in an authentic western setting. Realistic, relatable characters kept me interested in the outcome as they face difficult and sometimes dangerous circumstances and struggle to make life-altering professional and personal decisions. I greatly appreciate the strong faith element that Ms. Lanning always infuses into her stories. Isaac’s spiritual struggle to find and follow God’s will for his life without fear is encouraging and inspiring. I thoroughly enjoyed this quick, entertaining read and highly recommend it. I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Reading Isaac's Integrity was a joy. Issac has made a lot of enemies, being a Judge, but has lost so much too. He cannot think about settling down again with a wife and family. There is too much at risk. He has met his match with Mandy Mae and she is just as stubborn or more than Isaac. He needs to find the Neil brothers and bring them to justice, instead of seeking revenge. He needs to put his faith in God to help him through these tough times. Wonderful characters and a fantastic storyline. I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.
This is an amazing story of a judge named Isaac in small towns. Isaac is a God fairing man that had a horrible tragedy before the story starts that makes him cautious in all aspects of his life. He wouldn’t let anyone get close to him and into his heart. Being a judge his job was very dangerous and he didn’t want anyone hurt. Being the kind man he was he helped a young man not follow in his families footsteps of a life of crime. Isaac was a man of prayer and realized that he deserved happiness. This is a great feel good story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The book is a nice period fiction. It is an easy read with enjoyable characters. The only thing missing in my opinion is information on where in the country it takes place.
1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Judge Isaac Steiner was a tough but wise judge. Judge Steiner gave those in the courtroom a bit of his wisdom when he said, “A word of warning and wisdom to all of you who feel your blood boiling at this point. Take personal responsibility for your actions, don’t make the same mistakes twice. If you are willing to let someone use you to lie for them, that makes you a pawn, which means you are disposable, replaceable, you hold no value. Next time, it may be you in the defendants’ chair. There is no honor among thieves.”
2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
Miss Mandy Mae Hunt harbored an affection for the ruggedly handsome Isaac Steiner. In turn, Isaac reciprocated her sentiments. Thoughts of Mandy Mae lingered in his mind as he traversed the circuit.
3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
Judge Isaac Steiner presided over the circuit, overseeing interviews and conducting trials. He wondered if the Lord would ever allow him to have a family. The Lord had brought him home safely, but he didn’t want to endanger anyone.
4. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?
I found the writing style of this brief book to be quite commendable. Despite its brevity, the book was skillfully crafted.
5. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
“God sure knows how to humble a man and melt a cold heart.”
6. For whom would you recommend this book?
I highly endorse “Isaac’s Integrity” for Christian Western romance literature enthusiasts.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this following the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
What an utterly fantastic book! I absolutely loved every page of this well-written and thought out novel of overcoming fear, allowing God to have His Will in our lives, and learning to start over after losing all! The Scripture references were spot on in each incidence they were used and I can’t help but believe that these verses from the Bible will encourage all who read this novel. I loved that the characters were so unique and individualized, yet had so much in common. I can’t think of a better book to buy TODAY than Isaac’s Integrity! I know you’ll LOVE it! ✝️💟📖 Faith over Fear is what these characters ALL had to have, but especially the Judge, Isaac, after amassing a bevy of vengeful people who wanted to cause him harm, and then losing his first little family due to some of those people. Then, learning to let God heal his fear and find happiness, joy, and love was such a beautiful thing to read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Living a life of danger, Judge Isaac Steiner knew his days of marital bliss were behind him after losing his first wife and unborn child in a fire deliberately set by outlaws. But even that decision didn’t stop one determined woman, Mandy Mae, from setting her sights on him. But would her persistence, courage and boldness be enough to soften his hard heart, change his mind and make him rethink his vocation? This is a story of learning to trust in the One who is in control and is there through come what may, always with a plan for good to overcome evil. So well written, causing the reader to want to laugh and cry right along with each character as they experience the highs and the lows life offers, creating a sense of wholeness and completeness at the outcome.
Lynne Lanning is one of my favorite authors. She writes strong women, exciting events, and suspense. This is no different. Isaac's incredible sense of moral justice might be his downfall...or his saving grace. With more twists than a roller coaster, Lynne kept me holding my breath. I loved his bodyguards, and his sister, and the banter was fantastic. You won't regret this read!
Lynne Lanning has written an easy to read period piece. The characters are relatable. I enjoyed how their devotion to God was shared as they prayed for God’s will to be done.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is so relatable in your own Christian life through the main characters of Judge Isaac Steiner and Mandy Mae. Through the characters of the book it really show's you how Isaac Steiner is living in despair, but by the end of the book it show's you how through his perseverance and trust in God he is given a second chance.
I loved how at the beginning of the book we see Isaac at work as a judge. He is compassionate, caring and fair, a true man of integrity. His line of work has brought many enemies. Is it fair to bring a wife and family into his life? That is something Isaac struggles with in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would recommend.
This book is a great read, once you start reading it you can't put it down. Mandy Mae and Isaac's story is a sweet romance full of hope and inspiration with just the right amount of drama to keep you turning the pages. I loved it and highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Such a nice book to read. Written by Lynne Lanning in a very well way. Book 10 is just as good as the first 9 books. All the characters are strong in their own way. A very enjoyable book to read.
This was a great book and what a fantastic author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this wonderful author.
This story had likeable characters who are very much like people we see today. They were fun to get to know. The author did a wonderful job of bringing them to life!