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The Peace Maker
The "Peace Maker" is the contemporary retelling of the story of David and Abigail in the Bible’s First Book of Samuel. The characters come to life in the setting of a current US Presidential election---Leif Mitchell is selected from his humble life as a horse rancher and country rock singer to become Governor of Kentucky and then run as the Republican candidate against powerful and narcissistic US Democratic Senator Darren Richards of New York, a behind-the-scenes abusive alcoholic. A powerful Darren will stop at nothing to bring Leif down, causing Leif to reconsider his high road approach to politics. When the campaigns get ugly and dangerous, First Lady hopeful Chessa Richards is faced with a tough decision. Should she try to preserve peace at all costs, protecting many who might become collateral damage as a result of the ensuing battle, and in turn possibly sacrifice her future and risk her own life? Should she try to stop Leif from stooping to her husband’s level, which may ruin his candidacy but save his soul? This gripping novel full of suspense and romance will encourage you in times of decision and doubt to rely on God’s guidance and to have courage to do the right thing no matter what the cost.
306 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2012
45 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Michele Chynoweth
9 books77 followersMichele Chynoweth is an award-winning inspirational fiction author who believes that the stories in the Bible's Old Testament are full of wonderful messages from God - but that they're usually hard to read - so she retells them in a contemporary way so today's readers can relate, get God's message and be entertained by their suspense, drama and romance. She is a former news reporter and advertising agency owner, graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and lives with her family in her native Maryland.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 18, 2013
Chessa's husband, Darren Richards, is a behind-the-scenes narcissistic abusive alcoholic. None of that changes when he becomes the leading candidate for President of the United States. Chessa's worries about her husband reach a fevered pitch as he closes in on winning the nation's highest office. How can she support his candidacy, even if it will mean becoming First Lady? Meanwhile, Darren's opponent, Leif Mitchell, is selected from his humble life as a stable hand and country rock singer to run for political office. His charm and leadership pave the way for him to become a national hero and a real threat as the leading Republican presidential candidate. A powerful Darren will stop at nothing to bring Leif down, causing Leif to reconsider his "high road" approach to politics. When Chessa finds out Leif is preparing to seek revenge on Darren in an attack that will not only destroy her husband's candidacy, but will probably cost other innocent lives as well, she is suddenly faced with a decision: Should she preserve peace at all costs, protecting those who would become collateral damage as a result of the ensuing battle - and in default, her husband--in turn sacrificing her freedom and risking her own life? Should she try to stop Leif, which may ruin his chances but save his soul? The Peace Maker is based on the story of David and Abigail in the Bible's First Book of Samuel - a story of hardship, struggle, courage and faith that God will lead his people if they but let Him.
Chessa Richards is the wife of a New York senator who is running for President of the United States. Her marriage is anything but perfect but with it being so much in the public eye, she does her best to cope with it. Leif Mitchell is a young governor of Kentucky who is running against Senator Richards for the candidacy. When the race starts getting close, the candidates will do anything to guarantee the win. Will they make the right choices? At what stakes will they stop?
This was a quick paced and hard to put down book with a couple of good twists. I really enjoyed the characters of Chessa and Leif and watching them develop before, during and after the campaign for presidency. There was a little bit of politics in the story but if you've watched any shows or movies about it, it is easy to follow. I am looking forwardto finding more books like this one to read in the future.
Chessa Richards is the wife of a New York senator who is running for President of the United States. Her marriage is anything but perfect but with it being so much in the public eye, she does her best to cope with it. Leif Mitchell is a young governor of Kentucky who is running against Senator Richards for the candidacy. When the race starts getting close, the candidates will do anything to guarantee the win. Will they make the right choices? At what stakes will they stop?
This was a quick paced and hard to put down book with a couple of good twists. I really enjoyed the characters of Chessa and Leif and watching them develop before, during and after the campaign for presidency. There was a little bit of politics in the story but if you've watched any shows or movies about it, it is easy to follow. I am looking forwardto finding more books like this one to read in the future.
May 10, 2015
I am going to give this three stars even though I didn't finish it because the author had a cute idea and had a good heart.
The writing was less then skillful and the book needed a lot more revisions before it was ready for publication. I almost gave up before I finished the second chapter but stuck out until 15% and decided life was to short.
One of the most glaring errors was the fact the writer had not done basic research on horses. Seriously? calling a full grown female horse a filly and a male house a colt? Those are the terms given to baby houses, not full grown horses. It would have only taken five minutes looking up stuff online to find that out.
This was a great idea, but poorly executed.
The writing was less then skillful and the book needed a lot more revisions before it was ready for publication. I almost gave up before I finished the second chapter but stuck out until 15% and decided life was to short.
One of the most glaring errors was the fact the writer had not done basic research on horses. Seriously? calling a full grown female horse a filly and a male house a colt? Those are the terms given to baby houses, not full grown horses. It would have only taken five minutes looking up stuff online to find that out.
This was a great idea, but poorly executed.
July 28, 2013
A beautiful, exciting Biblical tale recast as a modern American presidential election. You'll really like this one.
May 7, 2022
This was a great read about how politics works and lots of behind-the-scenes into how races are won and lost. The characters are real and the plot is engaging. I was pulled in from the first few pages. I loved how God, faith, and spirituality were evident throughout the book without being preachy.
This is a new author for me, and this won't be the last book I read of hers.
This is a new author for me, and this won't be the last book I read of hers.
August 18, 2016
Michele Chynoweth has done it again!! The “The Peace Maker” is captivating right from the start. It is especially interesting since the elections are going on now. Perfect timing for me to read this book.
“The Peace Maker” brings out a lot of different emotions when you read it. You feel sorry for some people and feel angry with other people and feel surprised at the way some other people act. This is a very fast moving and captivating book that you will not want to put down. Once you start reading Michele’s book you will be hooked!!
“The Peace Maker” brings out a lot of different emotions when you read it. You feel sorry for some people and feel angry with other people and feel surprised at the way some other people act. This is a very fast moving and captivating book that you will not want to put down. Once you start reading Michele’s book you will be hooked!!
January 9, 2014
Thought provoking
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although I had an idea of what the end would be, I could not put the book down. wasn't too crazy about the idea that Leif was a Tea Party President
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although I had an idea of what the end would be, I could not put the book down. wasn't too crazy about the idea that Leif was a Tea Party President
June 8, 2013
Good read ... The peacemaker was harder to put down .... This book was good a little heavy at time with politics but held my interest
October 15, 2014
good stuff
May 16, 2019
What do you get, when fiction collides with a story from the Bible? You get The Peace Maker by Michele Chynoweth! The Peace Maker takes a journey in modern day scenes, following the events surrounding Abigail meeting David, king-elect.
Michele Chynoweth is the author of The Faithful One, The Runaway Prophet, and soon to be released, The Jealous Son, all based on Biblical characters. She is also an inspirational speaker, a book coach and a writing instructor.
Michele says her books are “contemporary suspense/romance novels that re-imagine Old Testament stories in the Bible,” and they live up to that title! The Peace Maker uses political ploys as a platform and gives an interesting spin to 1 Samuel 8-25.
It’s fascinating to see questions raised about current events in the news. The Peace Maker touches on right-to-life, stem-cell research, domestic violence, racism, and alcoholism, to name a few. Can a Christian effect change in government? Should convictions of one be inflicted on many? Abigail thought so, when she approached David. Make your own opinion, when you see how Michele’s characters carry out their roles in the book.
We took The Peace Maker to another level, by inviting Michele to speak at our Women’s Retreat. Using her book, and basing our theme of “Fearless” on Abigail, we asked, “Are you fearless? Do you struggle to find courage in the midst of life’s challenges?”
Michele helped us look at what equipped Abigail to stop the massacre against her household, and how her story applies to our stories, today. We contemplated steps to cast fear aside and decisions to equip us for action. Abigail became a living, breathing role model!
Get a copy of The Peace Maker, and decide for yourself if it makes the Old Testament brand new. You’re in for a delightful ride!
Michele Chynoweth is the author of The Faithful One, The Runaway Prophet, and soon to be released, The Jealous Son, all based on Biblical characters. She is also an inspirational speaker, a book coach and a writing instructor.
Michele says her books are “contemporary suspense/romance novels that re-imagine Old Testament stories in the Bible,” and they live up to that title! The Peace Maker uses political ploys as a platform and gives an interesting spin to 1 Samuel 8-25.
It’s fascinating to see questions raised about current events in the news. The Peace Maker touches on right-to-life, stem-cell research, domestic violence, racism, and alcoholism, to name a few. Can a Christian effect change in government? Should convictions of one be inflicted on many? Abigail thought so, when she approached David. Make your own opinion, when you see how Michele’s characters carry out their roles in the book.
We took The Peace Maker to another level, by inviting Michele to speak at our Women’s Retreat. Using her book, and basing our theme of “Fearless” on Abigail, we asked, “Are you fearless? Do you struggle to find courage in the midst of life’s challenges?”
Michele helped us look at what equipped Abigail to stop the massacre against her household, and how her story applies to our stories, today. We contemplated steps to cast fear aside and decisions to equip us for action. Abigail became a living, breathing role model!
Get a copy of The Peace Maker, and decide for yourself if it makes the Old Testament brand new. You’re in for a delightful ride!
May 3, 2020
The Peace Maker is an inspirational Christian fiction novel by author Michele Chynoweth. It’s loosely based on the biblical story of David and Abigail.
Since this is a political fiction book I thought it would be great to read during the country’s political year. Did this book meet my expectations? Yes! I would say it’s geared for YA -Adult and it’s best to read the whole book before making a judgment, including the epilogue.
My favorite character was Leif; singer, songwriter, and horse whisperer. He was the least of his brothers to climb the political ladder, yet he was strategically placed.
The author has very descriptive writing, which vicariously put me in the story. I finished this story in just a couple of days. I recommend the novel to fans of political fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, 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 in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Since this is a political fiction book I thought it would be great to read during the country’s political year. Did this book meet my expectations? Yes! I would say it’s geared for YA -Adult and it’s best to read the whole book before making a judgment, including the epilogue.
My favorite character was Leif; singer, songwriter, and horse whisperer. He was the least of his brothers to climb the political ladder, yet he was strategically placed.
The author has very descriptive writing, which vicariously put me in the story. I finished this story in just a couple of days. I recommend the novel to fans of political fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, 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 in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
May 23, 2021
Michele Chynoweth writes a political thriller based on the little-known love story of David and Abigail (from the Biblical account of 1 Samuel 25). With interesting insights into the political world, the reader is taken on a fascinating journey of two presidential candidates, Leif Mitchell and Darren Richards.
When the campaign becomes ugly it is Chessa Richards—the wife of Darren Richards—who attempts to bring integrity to an increasingly vicious campaign.
I recommend this book for Chynoweth’s clever hand in bringing a Biblical story to life. It’s surprising how relevant the topics are for us today.
When the campaign becomes ugly it is Chessa Richards—the wife of Darren Richards—who attempts to bring integrity to an increasingly vicious campaign.
I recommend this book for Chynoweth’s clever hand in bringing a Biblical story to life. It’s surprising how relevant the topics are for us today.
July 31, 2018
Breathtaking story
Michele has done a masterful job of writing g a modern-day political romance that parallels Scriptural characters and forced me to stay up long after my bedtime. Who knew this could be done in such a captivating, creative, authentic way? I can't wait to begin reading her other books.
Michele has done a masterful job of writing g a modern-day political romance that parallels Scriptural characters and forced me to stay up long after my bedtime. Who knew this could be done in such a captivating, creative, authentic way? I can't wait to begin reading her other books.
December 13, 2018
At first, I was unimpressed with some of the writing in chapter one. It seemed a bit cliche. But I continued reading and felt the author improved as the book progressed.
In the end I really like how she retold a Biblical story and reset it in modern times. It helped me see how what happened to David and Abigail could happen today.
In the end I really like how she retold a Biblical story and reset it in modern times. It helped me see how what happened to David and Abigail could happen today.
May 10, 2019
Good read
It kept me wanting to turn pages, but sometimes it felt like it just suddenly skipped to something else. It may have been chapter breaks that just didn't translate electronically
It kept me wanting to turn pages, but sometimes it felt like it just suddenly skipped to something else. It may have been chapter breaks that just didn't translate electronically
October 30, 2020
Great job identifying the biblical characters and their modern day counterparts. It really helped me as I read the book to relate the story of David and Abigail. I was able to do a bible study using the story of the "Peacemaker". You won't be disappointed!
February 24, 2017
Great plot for this contemporary retelling of the David and Abigail story from the Bible.
July 6, 2017
A modern day telling of the story of David and Abigal. Interesting story.
July 17, 2018
Good book
I took some time to read it and it was filled with reading that kept me interested! Great read and well written!
I took some time to read it and it was filled with reading that kept me interested! Great read and well written!
June 16, 2022
Excellent book
This book was an excellent allegory about David and Saul and how David ultimately defeats Saul.I really enjoyed reading it and think that you will enjoy it too.
This book was an excellent allegory about David and Saul and how David ultimately defeats Saul.I really enjoyed reading it and think that you will enjoy it too.
April 25, 2015
This book was okay nothing special and I do not really get the reference to the book of Samuel. Maybe a little but not fully. I thought the characters were cross. It was a decent read though. I am not sure I would read additional from this author I just am not sure I get the whole concept of the story.
June 29, 2013
Reason I changed my mind and stopped reading this book is, it was presented as a Biblically based story and I fail to see the connection. Possibly I should have given it 3 stars as the writing quality would warrant that, but I am so totally disappointed to find it deals with contemporary politics that I did not want to read any more of it.
November 18, 2013
Not really my bag. Too predictable. Thought it would get better, but it didn't. I should have cut my losses by giving up on it much earlier. I'm giving it a 2, rather than a 1, as a reward to my sticking it out through the entire read.
November 18, 2017
I had the privilege of meeting Michele personally and listening to her speak at a writer's conference, which is where I purchased this book. She is such a lovely person, so warm and welcoming, with a heart for the Lord. This is very much reflected in her writing. I LOVED this book! There was just the right amount of suspense and romance. I thought that setting the book in a political climate was so clever and relevant to our current society where the topic of politics seems to follow us everywhere we go. My only complaint is that there isn't a sequel! I would love to know what happens after the book ends with Leif, Chessa, their baby, and their lives in the White House! 5/5 stars from me!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews