What do you think?
Rate this book
Imogen's Chance
She has given herself a chance to fix her personal history. But will old mistakes bring up new emotions? Imogen Browne longs to make up for past mistakes before she can move on. She quietly resolves to help the Dorazio family, whose lives she accidentally upset. Her biggest challenge is Asher, the one person who may never forgive her. And he is facing a crisis of his own. Imogen must tread very carefully, as trying to fix things may well make them shatter. A sensitive story about misplaced loyalty, celebrating life and falling in love. Can family secrets concealed with the best intentions bear the light of day?
- GenresChristian Fiction
228 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
497 people want to read
About the author
Paula Vince
12 books109 followersAward-winning author Paula Vince loves to evoke tears and laughter through writing fiction. She stirs her stories with mystery, romance, drama and suspense to create something delectably special. A wife and homeschooling mother of three children, she resides in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia, a beautiful spot for inspiration with its breath-taking scenery and four distinct seasons.
Paula's quest is to provide quality faith-inspired fiction set in Australia. Her quest started way back when, as a Uni student, she discovered the writing of American Christian fiction authors. She wants to provide similar enjoyable reads that highlight her own country.
Her novel "Picking up the Pieces" won the religious fiction section of the 2011 International Book Awards.
Her novel "Best Forgotten" was winner of the 2011 CALEB Award in the fiction category and also overall winner for the year.
Her novel "Imogen's Chance" (April 2014) won third place in the Book Club Network's Readers' Choice Book of the Month Award for September, 2014.
Paula's quest is to provide quality faith-inspired fiction set in Australia. Her quest started way back when, as a Uni student, she discovered the writing of American Christian fiction authors. She wants to provide similar enjoyable reads that highlight her own country.
Her novel "Picking up the Pieces" won the religious fiction section of the 2011 International Book Awards.
Her novel "Best Forgotten" was winner of the 2011 CALEB Award in the fiction category and also overall winner for the year.
Her novel "Imogen's Chance" (April 2014) won third place in the Book Club Network's Readers' Choice Book of the Month Award for September, 2014.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 19, 2014
There was something about this story that got me in right from the start. Maybe it was the characters, maybe it was the issues of guilt, the life threading health issue being faced, or maybe it was the idea of secrets.( I love books about secrets.) More likely it was all these things. I’m often not a big fan of prologues but here it sets the scene and is absolutely critical to the attitudes and actions and guilt held onto by Imogen and also as we find out later by Asher. It highlighted several things that I think will touch a chord with readers - like the bargain she made with God. How many of us have tried that tactic at some point in our lives? Imogen’s part of the bargain is to go back to Australia and try and make it up to the Dorazio family for the pain she had caused them in the past. Isabel had stayed with the Dorazio family as a child while her missionary parents were in the Northern Territory. Imogen’s plan is to bless the Dorazio’s somehow, though she has no idea how. She just knows she has to go and try to help. But of course things don’t go the way she expects.
Meanwhile Asher is facing his own serious health issues. He is also carrying guilt himself for events in his family’s past. I found both Asher and Imogen very easy to like and to relate to. The issues facing them felt so real and were skilfully handed. Guilt for past actions and health issues are two that many readers will be able to relate to. Some of the issues they dealt with and the questions they raised I could relate to personally.
I liked the way the relationship between Asher and his brother Seth was portrayed and the glimpses of past family dynamics between Asher and his twin sister Becky and Asher and his Dad. This is not a family where all is sweetness and light. There are tensions and personality clashes that bubble to the surface at times, just as they do in any real family. The thank you letters and humour in the book are a great touch. I liked the way the subject of God’s healing was dealt with in this book. While it gives hope, it doesn’t try to take the stance that God always heals or that if he doesn’t it is through lack of faith on the person. Rather the decision to heal or not is God’s alone. Healing may be in his plan or it may not.
I found this book an absorbing read. I started it one afternoon and finished it the next day. All I wanted to do was keep reading. Thanks to Paula for and advance reading copy.
Meanwhile Asher is facing his own serious health issues. He is also carrying guilt himself for events in his family’s past. I found both Asher and Imogen very easy to like and to relate to. The issues facing them felt so real and were skilfully handed. Guilt for past actions and health issues are two that many readers will be able to relate to. Some of the issues they dealt with and the questions they raised I could relate to personally.
I liked the way the relationship between Asher and his brother Seth was portrayed and the glimpses of past family dynamics between Asher and his twin sister Becky and Asher and his Dad. This is not a family where all is sweetness and light. There are tensions and personality clashes that bubble to the surface at times, just as they do in any real family. The thank you letters and humour in the book are a great touch. I liked the way the subject of God’s healing was dealt with in this book. While it gives hope, it doesn’t try to take the stance that God always heals or that if he doesn’t it is through lack of faith on the person. Rather the decision to heal or not is God’s alone. Healing may be in his plan or it may not.
I found this book an absorbing read. I started it one afternoon and finished it the next day. All I wanted to do was keep reading. Thanks to Paula for and advance reading copy.
March 25, 2014
This is a story bursting with hope and trust in God's grace and loving care of His children. Besides snatches of humour, it delves into some very deep emotions. Once familiar with its characters, I realized some well hidden secrets were begging to be loosed.
Imogen (Ginny) a serious girl, acts as a perfect foil to Asher in allowing his witty, but sometimes sarcastic, personality to mature in amazing ways. The plot-line also reveals how serious illness affects not only those closest, but the way it ingratiates its poison into the lives of others. In the author's character's own words, "It's like carrying around an emotional bomb that has just been detonated".
Having recently lost a dear friend who was a wonderful witness in the trial of her faith, another character's words gave balance on this centuries long debate. "I've got to believe I'll die at the perfect time He's planned for me, whether it's soon or years down the track."
It's a story of overcoming. And in words which apply to all trusting believers "My times are in His hands".
Rita Stella Galieh http:inspirationalromance.blogspot.com
Imogen (Ginny) a serious girl, acts as a perfect foil to Asher in allowing his witty, but sometimes sarcastic, personality to mature in amazing ways. The plot-line also reveals how serious illness affects not only those closest, but the way it ingratiates its poison into the lives of others. In the author's character's own words, "It's like carrying around an emotional bomb that has just been detonated".
Having recently lost a dear friend who was a wonderful witness in the trial of her faith, another character's words gave balance on this centuries long debate. "I've got to believe I'll die at the perfect time He's planned for me, whether it's soon or years down the track."
It's a story of overcoming. And in words which apply to all trusting believers "My times are in His hands".
Rita Stella Galieh http:inspirationalromance.blogspot.com
March 19, 2014
I really enjoyed Imogen's Chance. I've read a couple of Paula's other books, and this one stands up in terms of quality.
Imogen's Chance is a little more obvious in its faith perspective, but not overdone.
The moral dilemma of confessing something you think would destroy the memory of a valued family member creates tension in the plot.
Secrets, lies of omission and misread histories all combine to add to Imogen's moral dilemma. Her desire is to do the right thing, but sometimes telling the truth opens up a can of worms.
If you like family dramas with a twist of mystery and spiritual searching, you'll enjoy this book.
Imogen's Chance is a little more obvious in its faith perspective, but not overdone.
The moral dilemma of confessing something you think would destroy the memory of a valued family member creates tension in the plot.
Secrets, lies of omission and misread histories all combine to add to Imogen's moral dilemma. Her desire is to do the right thing, but sometimes telling the truth opens up a can of worms.
If you like family dramas with a twist of mystery and spiritual searching, you'll enjoy this book.
March 20, 2014
A family reeling from the consequences of an accident fifteen years ago, a young man dealing with a crisis and the effect it has on his girlfriend, and then there’s Imogen.
From the moment I started reading, I was intrigued by Imogen. She has a secret. And I didn’t get to find out what it was until near the end so I had to keep reading. Nice!
I also liked the complexities of the characters. The Dorazio family (and Kaitlyn, Asher’s girlfriend), came across as real people, with a believable amount of conflict and tension between them. I enjoyed how each of them reacted and behaved in their own distinctly different styles.
Slight spoiler alert:(this is revealed early in the book)
Cancer is not an easy subject to tackle. In my opinion, Paula has done it well, showing the effects of this insidious disease on friends and family. Despite this, Imogen’s Chance is by no means a depressing or negative story. Asher’s (and Imogen’s) spiritual journey is full of hope as they fight his illness together, and of course, the unfolding of their growing attraction for each other is lovely to watch.
Oh, and the ‘thank you’ notes were a humorous and poignant touch, exactly what I expected from Asher. You’ll understand when you get there
Imogen’s Chance is another uplifting and enjoyable story by Paula Vince.
Thank you to Paula for the free copy to review.
From the moment I started reading, I was intrigued by Imogen. She has a secret. And I didn’t get to find out what it was until near the end so I had to keep reading. Nice!
I also liked the complexities of the characters. The Dorazio family (and Kaitlyn, Asher’s girlfriend), came across as real people, with a believable amount of conflict and tension between them. I enjoyed how each of them reacted and behaved in their own distinctly different styles.
Slight spoiler alert:(this is revealed early in the book)
Cancer is not an easy subject to tackle. In my opinion, Paula has done it well, showing the effects of this insidious disease on friends and family. Despite this, Imogen’s Chance is by no means a depressing or negative story. Asher’s (and Imogen’s) spiritual journey is full of hope as they fight his illness together, and of course, the unfolding of their growing attraction for each other is lovely to watch.
Oh, and the ‘thank you’ notes were a humorous and poignant touch, exactly what I expected from Asher. You’ll understand when you get there
Imogen’s Chance is another uplifting and enjoyable story by Paula Vince.
Thank you to Paula for the free copy to review.
September 11, 2014
Paula Vince just keeps getting better and better. In Imogen's Chance Vince bravely raises a topic I haven't even seen treated in a novel: that of physical healing. There is a balance here: no stones are thrown and no angel flies in to save the day. The characters are strong and contrasting, their goals and subsequent motives clear. Imogen arrives from the States to stay with old family friends in Adelaide to 'right a wrong', the mystery of which is skilfully unveiled like the peeling of an onion and surprises the reader. Asher is her childhood friend from the family and has just been diagnosed with cancer.
I have found that Christian fiction can sometimes sacrifice technique and style in order to do justice to the theme or message, but in Imogen's Chance there is a weaving of the two. Yes there is an important issue of healing in the story and it is powerful. It has encouraged me to let go of the worry of my husband's cancer, and my friend whose husband has inoperable cancer wants to read it next. But the pleasurable surprise here is that the writing hasn't suffered -- no technical glitches with point of view; there is genuine conflict in well-formed scenes, and emotion and motives are shown rather than summarised, and the use of imagery to show emotion raises the bar further. Yet romance lovers will not be disappointed. Nor does this novel tell readers what to think. This is the story of the characters, especially Imogen and Asher, and they live on long after the book finishes. This is Christian fiction at its best.
I have found that Christian fiction can sometimes sacrifice technique and style in order to do justice to the theme or message, but in Imogen's Chance there is a weaving of the two. Yes there is an important issue of healing in the story and it is powerful. It has encouraged me to let go of the worry of my husband's cancer, and my friend whose husband has inoperable cancer wants to read it next. But the pleasurable surprise here is that the writing hasn't suffered -- no technical glitches with point of view; there is genuine conflict in well-formed scenes, and emotion and motives are shown rather than summarised, and the use of imagery to show emotion raises the bar further. Yet romance lovers will not be disappointed. Nor does this novel tell readers what to think. This is the story of the characters, especially Imogen and Asher, and they live on long after the book finishes. This is Christian fiction at its best.
September 8, 2014
Imogen Browne is a 20-something American with painful memories of Australia—painful because of the hurt she unwittingly caused the Dorazio family. She knows it's time to try to make amends, and returns to Australia in search of short-term work. Marion Dorazio invites Imogen to board with them for old times' sake.
Marion's twins, Asher and Becky, are Imogen's age, and their brother Seth is a few years older. It looks like the family has moved on from the accident that injured Marion—and from the second source of pain that none of them know Imogen had a part in. Why reopen old wounds?
When Asher is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, each family member's turmoil begins to surface. Imogen, as the impartial visitor, can offer the support that the family are too emotionally involved to give. She doesn't expect to fall for Asher in the process, and if he knew what she'd done, he'd never speak to her again.
Asher, Imogen and Marion carry regret over things they've been afraid to say—things that have caused hurts and misunderstandings. With Asher this has a flip-side, because he learned this behaviour after a childhood of saying too much.
What stands out to me is Asher's health and the quest he and Imogen begin together. Should he accept the doctors' prognosis that he's likely to die, or dare he risk what he begins to discover the Bible says about healing?
Asher and Imogen both come from Christian backgrounds but neither thinks God is particularly close to them. Their search is organic to who they are and the situation they're in. It's not a sermon or an author-driven agenda. Essentially, they come to believe that God can heal Asher and that whether or not He chooses to do so, they need to trust in His strong love each day.
This is what I took from the novel, the reminder to rest in God's love and to not be straining to see the good or bad the future holds.
Lest this sound too serious, I'll mention that one of Asher's methods to get his mind off the negatives that have filled his life is the practice of daily gratitude, which he doesn't do like your or I might, in brief lists or even in a journal. Asher writes thank-you notes—very quirky thank-you notes.
Imogen's Chance is a story of relationships and reconciliation, forgiveness and love. It pulled me in, to the point where I'd be irritated when I had to stop reading and attend to daily life.
Paula Vince is an award-winning Australian author. Imogen's Chance is her newest novel, and it's available worldwide as an ebook and in print from most online retailers. For the month of April 2014 she's running a blog tour with multiple prizes. Details here. You can learn more about Paula at her website, and check out her blog, "It Just Occurred to Me." You can also read an interview I did with Paula in 2012, as well as a recent interview with Imogen herself.
[Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
Marion's twins, Asher and Becky, are Imogen's age, and their brother Seth is a few years older. It looks like the family has moved on from the accident that injured Marion—and from the second source of pain that none of them know Imogen had a part in. Why reopen old wounds?
When Asher is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, each family member's turmoil begins to surface. Imogen, as the impartial visitor, can offer the support that the family are too emotionally involved to give. She doesn't expect to fall for Asher in the process, and if he knew what she'd done, he'd never speak to her again.
Asher, Imogen and Marion carry regret over things they've been afraid to say—things that have caused hurts and misunderstandings. With Asher this has a flip-side, because he learned this behaviour after a childhood of saying too much.
What stands out to me is Asher's health and the quest he and Imogen begin together. Should he accept the doctors' prognosis that he's likely to die, or dare he risk what he begins to discover the Bible says about healing?
Asher and Imogen both come from Christian backgrounds but neither thinks God is particularly close to them. Their search is organic to who they are and the situation they're in. It's not a sermon or an author-driven agenda. Essentially, they come to believe that God can heal Asher and that whether or not He chooses to do so, they need to trust in His strong love each day.
This is what I took from the novel, the reminder to rest in God's love and to not be straining to see the good or bad the future holds.
Lest this sound too serious, I'll mention that one of Asher's methods to get his mind off the negatives that have filled his life is the practice of daily gratitude, which he doesn't do like your or I might, in brief lists or even in a journal. Asher writes thank-you notes—very quirky thank-you notes.
Imogen's Chance is a story of relationships and reconciliation, forgiveness and love. It pulled me in, to the point where I'd be irritated when I had to stop reading and attend to daily life.
Paula Vince is an award-winning Australian author. Imogen's Chance is her newest novel, and it's available worldwide as an ebook and in print from most online retailers. For the month of April 2014 she's running a blog tour with multiple prizes. Details here. You can learn more about Paula at her website, and check out her blog, "It Just Occurred to Me." You can also read an interview I did with Paula in 2012, as well as a recent interview with Imogen herself.
[Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
March 24, 2014
Imogen’s Chance
When the unexpected happens, it can define or derail. Paula Vince’s Imogen’s Chance is a story that displays both and takes the reader on an engaging journey that sparks hope.
Imogen is chased by a grievous childhood mistake fifteen years ago, one that drives her to return to Australia with the hope of blessing the Dorazio family and setting right some of the effects of her choices. Instead, Imogen arrives into a veritable bomb-shell for this family and must find her way through secrets and unspoken words, to touch the life of Asher, her childhood friend and the one in the eye of this latest storm.
Imogen’s Chance is a deep-thinking book, and the reader will not come away without impact. Rather than being negative it is hopeful, and at times, humorous. The romantic sub-plot between Imogen and Asher makes this read all the sweeter, gently developing in a believable manner and timing.
Cancer is one of the biggest challenges of our time and one requiring taste, tact and understanding, even when explored in a fictional setting. Paula Vince has achieved this and when I received news of a friend’s diagnosis of an aggressive form cancer the day after finishing Imogen’s Chance, I felt the message of hope whispering in my heart.
The characters were colourful and individual which was most pure and entertaining, when displayed through Asher and his thankfulness notes and Imogen’s shy quirks. The progression of their Christian journey was appropriate to the subject matter and the more biblical aspect written in a manner that held me, without leaving me feeling that I was hearing a sermon. Life was at the centre of this book and that kept me turning the pages.
The big reveal moment tied up the reasons for Imogen’s decision to travel to Australia and was executed through a narrative approach rather than dialogue. Although I wanted to hear the interaction of the main characters, the conclusion to Imogen’s Choice was a satisfying end to an epic journey for two very likeable characters.
Another thought-provoking read from Paula Vince that still offers entertainment despite the real and raw subject matter. Thank you Paula for the review copy. I know many lives will be touched by this book. Recommended.
When the unexpected happens, it can define or derail. Paula Vince’s Imogen’s Chance is a story that displays both and takes the reader on an engaging journey that sparks hope.
Imogen is chased by a grievous childhood mistake fifteen years ago, one that drives her to return to Australia with the hope of blessing the Dorazio family and setting right some of the effects of her choices. Instead, Imogen arrives into a veritable bomb-shell for this family and must find her way through secrets and unspoken words, to touch the life of Asher, her childhood friend and the one in the eye of this latest storm.
Imogen’s Chance is a deep-thinking book, and the reader will not come away without impact. Rather than being negative it is hopeful, and at times, humorous. The romantic sub-plot between Imogen and Asher makes this read all the sweeter, gently developing in a believable manner and timing.
Cancer is one of the biggest challenges of our time and one requiring taste, tact and understanding, even when explored in a fictional setting. Paula Vince has achieved this and when I received news of a friend’s diagnosis of an aggressive form cancer the day after finishing Imogen’s Chance, I felt the message of hope whispering in my heart.
The characters were colourful and individual which was most pure and entertaining, when displayed through Asher and his thankfulness notes and Imogen’s shy quirks. The progression of their Christian journey was appropriate to the subject matter and the more biblical aspect written in a manner that held me, without leaving me feeling that I was hearing a sermon. Life was at the centre of this book and that kept me turning the pages.
The big reveal moment tied up the reasons for Imogen’s decision to travel to Australia and was executed through a narrative approach rather than dialogue. Although I wanted to hear the interaction of the main characters, the conclusion to Imogen’s Choice was a satisfying end to an epic journey for two very likeable characters.
Another thought-provoking read from Paula Vince that still offers entertainment despite the real and raw subject matter. Thank you Paula for the review copy. I know many lives will be touched by this book. Recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2014
From our CALEB reviewers:
(1)
Imogen Browne is living in the US with her family when she decides to return to Australia and face the bogies from her past. Previous attempts to clear the air had only resulted in further pain and added additional unresolved issues.
Paula Vince has written another exciting, Biblically sound romance that deals with forgiveness, the healing power of God and there are many interesting challenges in this fast moving novel.
This book is sensitively written and presents the Christian viewpoint on many different aspects of life. It is quality fiction at its best and the story line is both intriguing and stirring. It is well worth reading and should appeal to women of all ages. DS
(2)
When she was young Imogen stayed with the Dorazios in South Australia. She and Asher the youngest son of the family got up to mischief in the middle of the night and as a result, Marion, the mother of the family, badly injured her back. Imogen comes back from America because she made a promise to God to put things right. This turns out to be more difficult than she thought it would be. When Asher gets gravely sick, they are drawn together and learn to trust God. The rest of the family find it hard to deal with Asher’s illness. Bit by bit Imogen works through her problems but the deepest secret almost brings everything crashing down. Paula Vince makes sure that the reader is show that trusting in God through sorrow, regret and repentance brings forgiveness and healing. I loved the characters and the way Paula wove this story to its finish. LS
(1)
Imogen Browne is living in the US with her family when she decides to return to Australia and face the bogies from her past. Previous attempts to clear the air had only resulted in further pain and added additional unresolved issues.
Paula Vince has written another exciting, Biblically sound romance that deals with forgiveness, the healing power of God and there are many interesting challenges in this fast moving novel.
This book is sensitively written and presents the Christian viewpoint on many different aspects of life. It is quality fiction at its best and the story line is both intriguing and stirring. It is well worth reading and should appeal to women of all ages. DS
(2)
When she was young Imogen stayed with the Dorazios in South Australia. She and Asher the youngest son of the family got up to mischief in the middle of the night and as a result, Marion, the mother of the family, badly injured her back. Imogen comes back from America because she made a promise to God to put things right. This turns out to be more difficult than she thought it would be. When Asher gets gravely sick, they are drawn together and learn to trust God. The rest of the family find it hard to deal with Asher’s illness. Bit by bit Imogen works through her problems but the deepest secret almost brings everything crashing down. Paula Vince makes sure that the reader is show that trusting in God through sorrow, regret and repentance brings forgiveness and healing. I loved the characters and the way Paula wove this story to its finish. LS
April 17, 2014
I am a fan of Paula Vince's writing, and so was looking forward to this new title. Paula has bravely taken on a very difficult subject. Cancer - but further, can we believe for divine healing. She has looked at the issue from just about every possible angle, asked all the difficult questions that get asked, and I believe written a challenging piece. In terms of story, I felt as if the heavy burden of past mistakes seemed fairly trivial at first - when I believed that all Imogen felt bad about was being part of a distraction that caused a bad accident. The story seemed to slow for me until about three quarters through I understood that this was not the burden she had been carrying at all. When I understood what the action was that had caused her such guilt, the story picked up considerably, and by the time I finished I was wowed, as usual. Next time I read it, I will know what it is she is carrying, and it will read quite differently, I'm sure.
October 1, 2014
Imogen's Chance by Paula Vince is a lovely book exploring deep and powerful themes about Christian healing. The main character Imogen is someone very easy to like with a beautiful character and personality. The story-line is very interesting and the main characters are authentic and likable. Like other books by the Paula Vince, I found it a great read and one I would highly recommend.
September 26, 2015
This well crafted story took me by surprise. I thought I'd swiftly summed up the story arc and knew where it was headed. Essentially lines were being drawn between the Dorazio family's traditional Christian views, which were being pitched against those of younger sibling and son, Asher, whose rejection of faith was about to be confronted by the reappearance of a old friend with some deep secrets. In no time my expectations were flipped about as numerous layers began to emerge within the story as Asher faced serious health challenges while getting reacquainted with Imogen Browne, who for her own reasons had returned from America.
The scenario enabled exploration of deeper themes through the personal faith journeys of the main protagonists, building up to a twist that was sufficiently surprising given Imogen's sweetness and kindhearted nature. When the details were further revealed, I did wonder what might have happened had the confession demonstrated Imogen was not so much a victim of circumstance and duplicity, but even though initially involved by her own gullibility, had chosen to engage further (less innocently) in a situation that once exposed as pretense, ultimately caused great pain to the family, in particular, Asher. Overall this was an engaging read with some different themes - different in a good way.
Four stars.
The scenario enabled exploration of deeper themes through the personal faith journeys of the main protagonists, building up to a twist that was sufficiently surprising given Imogen's sweetness and kindhearted nature. When the details were further revealed, I did wonder what might have happened had the confession demonstrated Imogen was not so much a victim of circumstance and duplicity, but even though initially involved by her own gullibility, had chosen to engage further (less innocently) in a situation that once exposed as pretense, ultimately caused great pain to the family, in particular, Asher. Overall this was an engaging read with some different themes - different in a good way.
Four stars.
September 20, 2016
I loved this story and was gripped from the start. I fell in love with Imogen and Asher and wanted the very best for both of them. The issues they faced were so real and the way Paula approached them was balanced and thought-provoking. Paula says in her author bios that she likes to evoke tears and laughter. This book did both for me. She kept me enough in suspense to not be frustrated, and involved enough with the characters that I couldn't put the book down until I knew what would happen to them. This is a beautiful, sensitive story that shows the heart of God and encourages the reader to hope in him and believe his love for them.
July 22, 2014
This story mixed together hope and reality, sin and redemption, love and loss. The concepts in this story made me think as I followed Imogen through her journey to right a past wrong. Along the way she and her old friend, Asher forge a path of faith though many battlefields. I enjoyed this novel very much. I loved the twist at the end that you will never see coming.
January 7, 2016
I reallllly liked this novel. Imogen and Asher are engaging characters. I found myself liking them both very quickly and the story intriguing enough to keep reading. The author has built many mysteries into the story line and created some intrigue as to how the story might end. But warning! About half way through the story, I do t know why, but I decided to read the recommendations on the inside cover - don't make my mistake! Weston Carryer's recommendation kinda makes it obvious how one major plot point is going to end. It may have already been obvious to other readers, but it wasn't to me until I read it, and I was disappointed to have worked it out.
I read this book at a time when I really needed to read it. It was inspirational without being too *preachy* and the character's struggles were real. I enjoyed being challenged in my faith as I embraced Imogen's desire to to hold on to the promises of God, given to us in His Word.
Anyone facing a difficult challenge in their life, or supporting someone going through a difficult time, would be greatly encouraged to read this story. And it's a good story to read, even if you're just cruising through life.
I read this book at a time when I really needed to read it. It was inspirational without being too *preachy* and the character's struggles were real. I enjoyed being challenged in my faith as I embraced Imogen's desire to to hold on to the promises of God, given to us in His Word.
Anyone facing a difficult challenge in their life, or supporting someone going through a difficult time, would be greatly encouraged to read this story. And it's a good story to read, even if you're just cruising through life.
May 8, 2014
I'm a fan of Paula Vince's books and Imogen's Chance didn't disappoint. I love that Paula delves into interesting topics while keeping me turning the pages with a bit of intrigue and romance as well. It was great to watch the growing relationship between Imogen and Asher even as they dealt with difficult issues in their lives -- issues that threatened that very relationship.
I took away a great idea from this book. That sometimes the journey of faith might not work out the way we were believing, but that doesn't make us a failure -- just like an athlete who doesn't achieve the number one ranking is not a failure either. We still applaud them for their efforts and hard work. Faith is a journey and it is what we learn in the process that is important, not necessarily the final result.
I heartily recommend this novel to anyone who loves contemporary romance with a bit more substance than most.
I took away a great idea from this book. That sometimes the journey of faith might not work out the way we were believing, but that doesn't make us a failure -- just like an athlete who doesn't achieve the number one ranking is not a failure either. We still applaud them for their efforts and hard work. Faith is a journey and it is what we learn in the process that is important, not necessarily the final result.
I heartily recommend this novel to anyone who loves contemporary romance with a bit more substance than most.
May 8, 2014
Paula has again chosen a challenging theme for the basis of her novel, Imogen's Chance – a young man faced with a serious illness and a young women living with regrets. I liked the originality of the story line and the well drawn characters. The story was easy to read and moved at a good pace.
However, for me, the best part of the story was how the main characters wrestled with issues of faith. Both grew up in Christian contexts and were familiar with the Bible and Biblical principles, even though they were not always modelled well within their families. So while they knew about faith they struggled to grasp its relevance for their lives. I enjoyed the way Paula showed a way forward for those who want a faith that is real and not one that is merely inherited.
An enjoyable read.
Thanks to Even Before Publishing for providing a free book for review.
However, for me, the best part of the story was how the main characters wrestled with issues of faith. Both grew up in Christian contexts and were familiar with the Bible and Biblical principles, even though they were not always modelled well within their families. So while they knew about faith they struggled to grasp its relevance for their lives. I enjoyed the way Paula showed a way forward for those who want a faith that is real and not one that is merely inherited.
An enjoyable read.
Thanks to Even Before Publishing for providing a free book for review.
April 16, 2014
Imogen's Chance is about second chances in relationships, in life, and with God. When twenty-four-year-old Imogen returns to the home of close friends of her family in Adelaide, Australia to reconnect with their now grown children and to clear her conscience of a tragic childhood mistake, she finds herself faced with a second tragedy, only this time she may be able to turn it into a miracle.
Asher, who is Imogen's age, is diagnosed with cancer, and the prognoses is grim. He's given a few years to live, at best. He's young, successful in his career, and has the girlfriend of his dreams, and it's all being taken away from him.
What I like most about Imogen's Chance is the humor Asher brings to his impending death. He holds out little hope for God to heal him, and finds an outlet in laughing at the circumstances. While his family and girlfriend bulk at his humor, Imogen sees how much he needs it and goes along wish his wisecracks. The connection draws them closer together.
The strength of the story lies in the relationships, broken and in need of mending. Paula Vince uses her talent as a writer to create real-life situations with strong, emotion pull. I would've loved to see more of beautiful Adelaide, Australia in the story, but the character development through complex, emotional scenes involving grief and hope, love and forgiveness make Imogen's Chance a 5-star read.
Asher, who is Imogen's age, is diagnosed with cancer, and the prognoses is grim. He's given a few years to live, at best. He's young, successful in his career, and has the girlfriend of his dreams, and it's all being taken away from him.
What I like most about Imogen's Chance is the humor Asher brings to his impending death. He holds out little hope for God to heal him, and finds an outlet in laughing at the circumstances. While his family and girlfriend bulk at his humor, Imogen sees how much he needs it and goes along wish his wisecracks. The connection draws them closer together.
The strength of the story lies in the relationships, broken and in need of mending. Paula Vince uses her talent as a writer to create real-life situations with strong, emotion pull. I would've loved to see more of beautiful Adelaide, Australia in the story, but the character development through complex, emotional scenes involving grief and hope, love and forgiveness make Imogen's Chance a 5-star read.
June 23, 2014
When Imogen traveled from the USA back to Australia, she had a mission; to reconcile a past deed. However she faced a different mission, grounded in the present. When Asher discovers he has a terminal illness, how possible is it that God can reverse the diagnosis? Impossible, according to him, and not worth pursuing. Asher’s focus was on how to deal with his girlfriend and his family’s responses to his tragedy. As Asher relied more and more on the strength of Imogen’s friendship, and the element of faith she brought into his life, the reader can’t help wondering about the direction their relationship would take. After all Asher already had a girlfriend, and he certainly didn't share the faith Imogen so clearly had. The reader is challenged to consider how far God would go to bring healing into the lives of the characters, whether physical or emotional. Throughout the story, there is an element of mystery which is finally revealed in a chilling episode, with a twist and through an unexpected character. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a family saga, a touch of romance and the desire to be challenged on a spiritual level.
August 31, 2015
A novel with a different approach is always appealing. This Christian novel is so well balanced with the healing that Christians always long for - both physically, mentally and of course emotionally. I've enjoyed all Paula Vince's novels but her plots, characterisation and spiritual depths continue to improve and delight more with each new book. This is one not to be missed!
August 30, 2014
Imogen’s Chance is an excellent book with both suspense and a compelling look at faith. The heroine of the story, Imogen, goes on a trip to Australia in order to rid herself of the guilt and shame of two events from her past, one from her childhood, and one a secret held since her teenage years. Also, Imogen decides it’s time to seek God on her own, and hopefully find Him more loving than what she was taught as a child.
What falls upon her brings both further heartache and opportunities to grow. In seeking God’s guidance with a stronger faith, she tries to help her beloved childhood friend face his cancer and break away from despair. Imogen sees him come to hope and have faith and believe God loves him and wants to heal him of cancer, but she sees too that her long held secret is closing in on her own new hope of a new life.
An apt quote from the book about one character’s growing faith is, “When you accept something as the truth, it doesn’t do you any good if it’s just theoretical. You need to let that truth shape every thought you have until you automatically reject anything different.”
Imogen doesn’t know what to do about her heavy secret from years earlier, but something must be done because the weight of the unrevealed secret and its consequence lands squarely upon the hearts of the very people she loves. The people who are like her family and the reason she came to Australia, to help and not hurt all over again. This is where the mystery of the story is and upon which the suspense builds until it comes to an almost déjà vu and dangerous exposure.
This wonderful story has both intrigue and content that is thought provoking. It reminds the reader to stay in the awareness of where one’s trust and faith are resting, on visible facts and circumstances, on logical outcomes only; or on the great and immeasurable Love, Power, and Grace of God.
What falls upon her brings both further heartache and opportunities to grow. In seeking God’s guidance with a stronger faith, she tries to help her beloved childhood friend face his cancer and break away from despair. Imogen sees him come to hope and have faith and believe God loves him and wants to heal him of cancer, but she sees too that her long held secret is closing in on her own new hope of a new life.
An apt quote from the book about one character’s growing faith is, “When you accept something as the truth, it doesn’t do you any good if it’s just theoretical. You need to let that truth shape every thought you have until you automatically reject anything different.”
Imogen doesn’t know what to do about her heavy secret from years earlier, but something must be done because the weight of the unrevealed secret and its consequence lands squarely upon the hearts of the very people she loves. The people who are like her family and the reason she came to Australia, to help and not hurt all over again. This is where the mystery of the story is and upon which the suspense builds until it comes to an almost déjà vu and dangerous exposure.
This wonderful story has both intrigue and content that is thought provoking. It reminds the reader to stay in the awareness of where one’s trust and faith are resting, on visible facts and circumstances, on logical outcomes only; or on the great and immeasurable Love, Power, and Grace of God.
May 8, 2014
I was both intrigued by the title, and that IMOGEN’S CHANCE was written by an author from Australia, PAULA VINCE. IMGONE’S CHANCE is a unique story about regretful pasts that affect not just the life of one person, but of several.
Imogen Browne is haunted by a past she needs to right. Even if that means confronting it head on.
Asher Dorazio is faced with a crisis he never imagined he’d be faced with. One that sets him on a life-changing path.
Can Imogen and Asher come clean about their past, and have a future?
In reading IMOGEN’S CHANCE, I was both surprise and intrigued by the choices of words by an Australian author, something I’m not accustomed too. Having never heard of the name Imogen before coming across IMOGEN’S CHANCE, I researched it, and was further intrigued by the history behind the name. PAULA VINCE created a unique story, with witty lines, surprises and twists.
Imogen Browne is haunted by a past she needs to right. Even if that means confronting it head on.
Asher Dorazio is faced with a crisis he never imagined he’d be faced with. One that sets him on a life-changing path.
Can Imogen and Asher come clean about their past, and have a future?
In reading IMOGEN’S CHANCE, I was both surprise and intrigued by the choices of words by an Australian author, something I’m not accustomed too. Having never heard of the name Imogen before coming across IMOGEN’S CHANCE, I researched it, and was further intrigued by the history behind the name. PAULA VINCE created a unique story, with witty lines, surprises and twists.
August 22, 2014
I won this book on Goodreads- am excited about reading it! Uplifting, a god read. Characters were well defined. I enjoyed the book- a great Christian book. 3.5 stars
August 20, 2019
Having read Paula Vince's 'Best Forgotten' I was keen to read more of her NA novels. Imogen's Chance is a book filled with gentle encouragement in the midst of struggles, loveable characters, a plot that piques the curiosity with enough intrigue and conflict to keep one turning pages to the end. To that end, it's a good story that refreshes the soul of the reader. But there is a deeper layer which adds another dimension to enjoy. This layer is filled with hope and shows how, even though past failings can stunt our emotions and hinder our joy of life, facing them and overcoming the fallout from them is both possible and utterly liberating. Vince's novel also provides an interesting exploration of divine healing without being pushy or sanctimonious. She raises poignant questions, provides food for thought and encourages faith in God's empowering love. A solid three and a half stars from this reader who demands a great deal from a novel to give it a four.
May 6, 2014
“She has given herself a chance to fix her personal history. But will old mistakes bring up new emotions? Imogen Browne longs to make up for past mistakes before she can move on. She quietly resolves to help the Dorazio family, whose lives she accidentally upset. Her biggest challenge is Asher, the one person who may never forgive her. And he is facing a crisis of his own. Imogen must tread very carefully, as trying to fix things may well make them shatter. A sensitive story about misplaced loyalty, celebrating life and falling in love. Can family secrets concealed with the best intentions bear the light of day?”
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Paula Vince.
When Asher Dorazio is faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis, his world falls apart and he has two choices – believe what the doctors say or cling to the slim hope that the God he doesn’t believe in might still be in the business of miracles. Asher’s faith journey as he discovers God is well written.
Asher’s childhood friend Imogen’s world has already fallen apart and she has returned to Australia to try to make amends for a tragic family accident that occurred when she was merely a child. As she tries to make up for past mistakes and misunderstandings, she finds herself entangled in a new family tragedy. As Imogen finds strength in her new relationship with God the tragedy turns into a miracle.
Imogen’s Chance is a book about second chances at every turn. Relationships between family members are healed and relationships between individual characters and God are also brought to full restoration.
What I enjoyed most about this book was that there was some things I never saw coming. I turned page after page wondering “what did happen to Asher’s father” and when the answer was revealed I was left reeling in shock – it was a scenario I never saw coming. Paula used her talent as a writer to draw me in from the very first page and keep me in suspense right to the end of the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Paula Vince.
When Asher Dorazio is faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis, his world falls apart and he has two choices – believe what the doctors say or cling to the slim hope that the God he doesn’t believe in might still be in the business of miracles. Asher’s faith journey as he discovers God is well written.
Asher’s childhood friend Imogen’s world has already fallen apart and she has returned to Australia to try to make amends for a tragic family accident that occurred when she was merely a child. As she tries to make up for past mistakes and misunderstandings, she finds herself entangled in a new family tragedy. As Imogen finds strength in her new relationship with God the tragedy turns into a miracle.
Imogen’s Chance is a book about second chances at every turn. Relationships between family members are healed and relationships between individual characters and God are also brought to full restoration.
What I enjoyed most about this book was that there was some things I never saw coming. I turned page after page wondering “what did happen to Asher’s father” and when the answer was revealed I was left reeling in shock – it was a scenario I never saw coming. Paula used her talent as a writer to draw me in from the very first page and keep me in suspense right to the end of the book.
May 7, 2014
Imogen Browne is an American citizen with ties down under. When she was a child, her parents took a mission trip in the Australian outback, leaving 9-year-old Imogen with people in Adelaide they didn't know well. (The men had been school chums.) Imogen played a part in a tragic accident that changed the Dorazio family forever.
Now 24, Imogen returns to Adelaide to try to make amends for her part in the family's misfortune, only to find them facing a new struggle: Asher's diagnosis of terminal cancer. Although Asher is her own age, he's the family member she got along with the least as children. Now, no one but Imogen seems able to deal with him: his mood swings, his faith...or lack of it, and the dark humor he uses as both shield and weapon. They grow closer as they work through life issues together. Can love out-grow cancer cells?
The story deepens as the reader considers second chances. Can we truly make amends for past mistakes? How much should we reveal of trauma long past? Can God forgive us? Can people? Can second chances come through physical healing as well as emotional and spiritual?
Paula Vince tucked away secrets she doles out at appropriate points in the story, adding to the novel's depth and intensity.
Now 24, Imogen returns to Adelaide to try to make amends for her part in the family's misfortune, only to find them facing a new struggle: Asher's diagnosis of terminal cancer. Although Asher is her own age, he's the family member she got along with the least as children. Now, no one but Imogen seems able to deal with him: his mood swings, his faith...or lack of it, and the dark humor he uses as both shield and weapon. They grow closer as they work through life issues together. Can love out-grow cancer cells?
The story deepens as the reader considers second chances. Can we truly make amends for past mistakes? How much should we reveal of trauma long past? Can God forgive us? Can people? Can second chances come through physical healing as well as emotional and spiritual?
Paula Vince tucked away secrets she doles out at appropriate points in the story, adding to the novel's depth and intensity.
November 5, 2014
I won this book from a contest on Goodreads.
Imogen Browne is returning to Australia to board with the Dorazio family while she looked for a job there. Fifteen years earlier when she was 9 years old she spent three months with the Dorazio's at which time, due to her actions, a terrible accident took place. Now she wanted to unburden her guilt and ask them for their forgiveness for something she did a very long time ago. The Dorazio kids are Seth and his pregnant wife Jodie, and the twins, Becky, who is now acting on live stage and her brother Asher who is a computer software engineer and very successful at it. Since the accident that also involved Asher, he has had a very painful shoulder which now warrants a doctor's visit. It is discovered he has cancer and he will unlikely live more than a few years. Unfortunately the toll of his cancer has been too much for Asher's girlfriend, Kaitlyn to bear so she left him. Now between Asher's cancer and Imogen's feelings for him that she could no longer deny, she knew the secret she was hiding would prevent her from ever having a relationship with him. How could anyone in the Dorazio family ever forgive her for this burden she carried with her.
Imogen Browne is returning to Australia to board with the Dorazio family while she looked for a job there. Fifteen years earlier when she was 9 years old she spent three months with the Dorazio's at which time, due to her actions, a terrible accident took place. Now she wanted to unburden her guilt and ask them for their forgiveness for something she did a very long time ago. The Dorazio kids are Seth and his pregnant wife Jodie, and the twins, Becky, who is now acting on live stage and her brother Asher who is a computer software engineer and very successful at it. Since the accident that also involved Asher, he has had a very painful shoulder which now warrants a doctor's visit. It is discovered he has cancer and he will unlikely live more than a few years. Unfortunately the toll of his cancer has been too much for Asher's girlfriend, Kaitlyn to bear so she left him. Now between Asher's cancer and Imogen's feelings for him that she could no longer deny, she knew the secret she was hiding would prevent her from ever having a relationship with him. How could anyone in the Dorazio family ever forgive her for this burden she carried with her.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews