All in by L.K. Simonds

Jul 10, 2019 M.M. Strawberry Library & Reviews rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 20th-century, historical-fiction

It feels a little weird to label this as 'historical fiction' because it's set in the late 90's, but as the book was published this year, that's technically what it is. Which totally makes me feel old, knowing that a time that I lived in is now considered historical.

Haha. Anyway, I really enjoyed the author's pacing and the way she wrote/told the story. I will admit that as an atheist it is hard to not feel a bit of a bias when it comes to Christian novels (not that this was obvious at first, ...more

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Mar 27, 2019 L.K. Simonds rated it it was amazing · (Review from the author) · review of another edition

Five stars. Obviously.

Don’t worry—I’m not reviewing my own work. But this space is a great vehicle to carry the news to my GR friends that I have a novel coming out. May I repeat that? I have a novel coming out! Its available to READ NOW on NetGalley. http://netgal.ly/wmYTlG

Back in the 90s, I was vacationing in NYC with my travel buddies. We got out the phonebook—as we always did while traveling—to see how many people with our last names were listed. In that thick Manhattan phonebook was a ...more

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Dec 29, 2019 Heather rated it really liked it

(This review will be on my blog All the Ups and Downs soon.)
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When I read the synopsis for All In by L.K. Simonds, I was definitely intrigued. There was something about it that really spoke to me.

The plot felt very realistic and was done beautifully. Cami is a 29 year old famous author that doesn't seem to let things bother her much. After breaking up with her boyfriend, things start going downhill for her fast especially when something life changing happens. Unbeknownst to Cami, God is trying (This review will be on my blog All the Ups and Downs soon.)
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When I read the synopsis for All In by L.K. Simonds, I was definitely intrigued. There was something about it that really spoke to me.

The plot felt very realistic and was done beautifully. Cami is a 29 year old famous author that doesn't seem to let things bother her much. After breaking up with her boyfriend, things start going downhill for her fast especially when something life changing happens. Unbeknownst to Cami, God is trying to touch her heart. Will she accept or will she push God away like everyone else she's pushed away?

The world building for All In was written very well. I felt like I was with Cami every step of the way from the breakup with her boyfriend, her one night stand, her vacations in Dallas, to her life changing event. While the pacing for All In starts off quite slow, it does eventually pick up about halfway through the book. Once the pacing picked up, I found myself absorbed in each and every little detail All In had to offer. I didn't really feel that this book had any plot twists or at least any major plot twists, but I also felt this novel didn't need any plot twists to hold its reader's interest. I did find myself trying to guess who helped Cami come to her life changing event. (Sorry to be so cryptic, but I don't want to give any spoilers away.) To some, All In may feel a bit preachy towards the ending of the book. However, this is a Christian fiction novel, and it is easy to tell that turning to God is what this book's main message is once you get closer to the ending. While we don't learn who contributed to Cami's life changing event (and it's not a big deal to find out who), every other loose string is tied up by the time the book ends.

The characters in All In are well fleshed out. My favorite character was Kate. I loved, loved, loved how caring she was towards everyone. She never had an unkind word about anyone. In fact, she was such a great role model. She was always full of encouragement throughout. I would love someone like Kate in my life. I also loved how patient Joel (Cami's ex) was with Cami. David was also a great guy, and I also loved how patient he was with Cami and just life in general. Another character I also loved was Sam. Even though he was dying, he wasn't angry or anything. In fact, he seemed very at peace with everything. The one character that did irk me was Cami. She seemed emotionless through most of the story. Joel accuses her basically of being emotionless, and he's right. She also comes off as extremely rude and snobby. I didn't really like or connect with Cami at all until the end of All In. Plus, I found it extremely gross when she was lusting and trying to seduce her 19 year old cousin. Cami seemed to just look at a guy and want to sleep with them. She'd also mention what each guy looked like and how attractive or unattractive they were each time. Cami couldn't just look at a man and see him as just a person. I felt like this took away from the book.

Trigger warnings for All In include death, some profanity, alcohol use, drug use, minor violence, and promiscuity (although the scenes were never graphic).

Overall, All In turns out to be a very uplifting read that sends a fantastic loving message. The plot is solid, and it does have some really sweet characters. I would recommend All In by L.K. Simonds to those aged 18+ who are questioning their faith in God or those who are already believers or are on the verge of believing. All In will leave you feeling satiated and loved.
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(A special thank you to L.K. Simonds to providing me with a paperback of All In in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.) ...more

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Sep 10, 2019 Ayekah rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

An incredibly well woven story of hope, pain, emotion and redemption. Seamlessly told by the author this book was so very real, there were times I felt like a voyeur in Cami's life and the trials she faces as we get a front and center seat in her personal journey that runs from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows and back again. It's a story of surrender and a deep longing for something other than.
It is captivating, beautiful and often painful, as you watch her make her way through her ...more

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Aug 01, 2019 Samantha James rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

The biggest message that L.K Simonds expressed throughout her novel is that of hope, inspiration, and ambition. Throughout reading this book, I continuously felt myself rooting for Cami despite her many faults because it shows how you can always find what you need and fix what you don’t like with your life. In the last few years it has been my mission to achieve my goals and get our act together so it was so easy to relate with the character. The connection was real and before I knew it there I ...more

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Jan 12, 2020 Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: books-to-review, 2020

All In delves into the human psyche and digs deep for the truth. A truth that is revealed by the actions of Cami and those around her.

This is not your typical Christian fiction book, so if you are opposed to nitty gritty situations in your books, then you won't want to read this one. BUT if you like to see how faith in God can change a person from the lowest depths to the highest levels, then you will want to read this novel. Cami is the kind of character that many will be able to relate to All In delves into the human psyche and digs deep for the truth. A truth that is revealed by the actions of Cami and those around her.

This is not your typical Christian fiction book, so if you are opposed to nitty gritty situations in your books, then you won't want to read this one. BUT if you like to see how faith in God can change a person from the lowest depths to the highest levels, then you will want to read this novel. Cami is the kind of character that many will be able to relate to because her life is not picture perfect. She may have achieved success as an author, but something is missing. It takes connecting with distant family and a life altering event before Cami realizes the destructive path she is on and if she doesn't change her life will not be what she wants.

I will admit that the first half of this book was slow and I wondered if Cami was going to find her way or she was going to keep floundering with her writing, her family, or her life. But about halfway through the book, there is a revelation that changes everything and from that point on I was hooked on the book and had a hard time putting it down. How was Cami going to handle this situation? What about her new relationship with Kate (a distant cousin)? How was she going to handle this news?

Chapter 23 is one of the best chapters, in my mind, because it centers around a discussion between Cami and Kate about faith, God, life, and the direction Cami is headed. I could have quoted most of the chapter because I felt so much of it was poignant. I think it was also a turning point for Cami and Kate was instrumental in facilitating the new path despite Cami's reluctance to open her heart and life to others. Cami hides so much of her life from everyone and, in a way, she is much like the character Jackie in her book. Living life on the edge but without a real purpose. Is what she missing faith and God? Only Cami can discover that and it isn't an easy sell.

A large portion of this book is set in Dallas where Kate lives and Cami visits. I was surprised to discover that Christ for the Nations Institute is a real place in Dallas. It is a charismatic non-denominational church and I'm not sure I believe what was described in the book, but I can't say it couldn't happen either. The bible is full of miracles so anything is possible. The only question that wasn't answered is why Kate and her husband left one church for this one. Kate tells Cami she will tell her later but I do not remember that being answered.

These are some of my favorite quotes from the book:

"...but it seems like you're kinda dead emotionally. Your characters feel all kinds of things, but do you? It's almost like you're putting up a front all the time."

"In the half hour or so between first light and daybreak, the desert holds its breath. Nothing moves. Not air. Not cactus flower. Not thermometer. Then the sun, in full bloom, crests the lumpy red mountains, and the birds abandon their night roosts with trills as clear as the air itself. By noon, you can grill tortillas on any sunny sidewalk, but the early mornings are perfect."

"A mother bear's protective instinct. Actually, more like wolverine."

"There's only one reality. Any other ideas on the subject are just existential crap."

"There's a big difference between hoping something will happen and arranging your life in such a way that it will happen, inevitably."

"We're all one bad hand away from disaster."

"That's an important thing about fiction, not only telling a story, but helping the reader see and feel things. Maybe even understand things, they wouldn't - couldn't - otherwise."

"At the time I wrote the book, I thought she played it well. I still believe she played it well, but I'm not so sure I should've let her walk away unscathed. The game always costs us something."

"Cami, the end of your story haunts me. It breaks my heart to think about a young woman who's determined to go after a life that will destroy her."

"I used to think life would all make sense one day and have, you know, a beginning, a middle, and an end. But it won't. It never will because there's just one day on top of another until you have a whole string of them, a lifetime of them."

"This is Texas, the weather here turns on a dime."

Overall I really enjoyed this book, especially the last half and felt that the story concluded and closed all storylines with no unanswered questions (other than the one I mentioned above). We give this 5 paws up. ...more

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Jan 15, 2020 Jenn Z at That's What She's Reading rated it really liked it · review of another edition

When I first read the synopsis for this book, I was instantly "all in." I love my fiction dark, swathed in danger, and that leads readers into the exploration of all the shades of gray that life has to offer within the safe confines of the book's pages. As a Christian myself, I was excited to see this story introducing "gritty" aspects that are not typically found within the genre and how it would navigate bleaker themes while keeping its audience in mind. This is a difficult read, but one that description

When I first read the synopsis for this book, I was instantly "all in." I love my fiction dark, swathed in danger, and that leads readers into the exploration of all the shades of gray that life has to offer within the safe confines of the book's pages. As a Christian myself, I was excited to see this story introducing "gritty" aspects that are not typically found within the genre and how it would navigate bleaker themes while keeping its audience in mind. This is a difficult read, but one that needed to be told. Life can be devoid of hope. People can experience a crisis of faith. And it's okay to discuss those concerns within the Christian fiction community in a respectful and open-minded way. Beautifully written and emotionally engaging, this is an example of the kinds of faith-based stories I would like to see more of; however, as long as you can remember that even within the Christian faith we all worship differently, the ending may seem less shocking and more of a direct acknowledgment to the miracles we believe are reflected in Christ's work.

"When I examine the situation in the cold light of day, I see precious little to look forward to as far as relationships go. Apparently, the road to happiness must be traveled in vehicles I loathe: Sacrifice. Compromise. Surrender."

For the most part, Cami's character is not very likable. As a debut bestselling author, she has a bit of a chip on her shoulder. She has commitment issues and intimacy is only a self-serving moment for carnal pleasure. While her future is primed for more novels, more money, more fame, more lovers, there is this lingering sense of loneliness and a lack of fulfillment that casts a shadow in the background. Though she admits early on that she needs to concentrate on feeding her soul, she has no idea what that means or how she would even know where to look for it. She is not a struggling believer or even someone looking to find faith, yet her slow progression to salvation is a testament to the religious narrative that proudly proclaims deliverance is never too late.

"I think people are the same no matter where you go. And frankly, a little undeserved kindness goes a long way to softening up the hard ones."

While redemption stories are always something to root for, I must say that Kate's character was the pièce de résistance to the awe-inspiring tale. As a distant relative, she enters Cami's life in an act of almost divine intervention. Kate embodies the spirit of Christ, modeling the idea of Grace that Christians should strive for every day. Exhibiting an aura of humility, connectedness, elegance, and charisma, she fully embraces the less fortunate with open arms, casts no judgments, or ever utters an ill word about anyone, even those who disappoint her greatly and frequently. She is not naive to the strife that affects the world, rather her confident and constant devotion is a direct foil to Cami's indifferent demeanor and flighty behavior. Her character and the relationship that is built with Cami is incredible to witness and every reason to give this book a chance.

You more than likely will step out of your comfort zone while reading this book; however, it might not be such a bad place to land. We all have different ways of looking at the world, and this story may put those views to the test. In much the same way that Cami eventually begins to look beyond herself and consider the perspectives of others, readers may have to open their minds a little to enjoy the uplifting message found by the end. This is raw. This is real. And it's definitely worth talking about.

Many thanks to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me with a free copy of the book. This is my honest and thoughtful review. ...more

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Jan 14, 2020 Kristine Hall rated it it was amazing

Shelves: realistic-fiction, 4-5-stars, relationships, sexual, adult, fiction, contemporary, religion, christian, faith-journey

4.5 STARS. It is a rare occasion when I know much about a book before I read it. With ALL IN, I knew there was some controversy over the book being categorized as Christian fiction – gritty, realistic, Christian fiction. Who wouldn’t be interested in exploring that? With my interest piqued, I read the book description and just like the book’s title, I was ALL IN.

“Manhattan lays out a daily smorgasbord of humanity. Old and young, rich and poor, bourgeois and Bolshevik…all together, they form a 4.5 STARS. It is a rare occasion when I know much about a book before I read it. With ALL IN, I knew there was some controversy over the book being categorized as Christian fiction – gritty, realistic, Christian fiction. Who wouldn’t be interested in exploring that? With my interest piqued, I read the book description and just like the book’s title, I was ALL IN.

“Manhattan lays out a daily smorgasbord of humanity. Old and young, rich and poor, bourgeois and Bolshevik…all together, they form a single living organism, a New York amoeba, shaping itself to the sidewalk container, shrinking from the overflowing wastebaskets and ubiquitous vendors.”

The strength of ALL IN is in the vivid descriptions of people and places. Author L.K. Simonds writes with panache; her use of figurative language and carefully selected word choices (she bussed his cheek) ensnare and hold captive the reader. Truly, Simonds’s sentences are some of the most well-written I’ve read in some time. The writing is cerebral, and sentences are heavy with meaning, each giving readers more insight into main character Cami’s mind and heart. But much is also said between the lines, and while the story is a page-turner, there is much to be gained by mindful reading.

“Jackie wasn’t just a dealer. She was a gambler too. Always laying it all on the line, hoping for the big payoff.”

The cover image of ALL IN, which also piqued my interest, is highly representative of Cami’s life, but it’s nuanced. Sure, there is an obvious connection: Cami took a job as a blackjack dealer in a casino in order to research and accurately write Jackie, the main character of her bestselling book. But it goes much deeper than that. In writing Jackie, Leona Camille Lingo becomes author Cami Taylor – who lives vicariously through her character, Jackie. Sound complicated? It is. Gambling is an apt metaphor for Cami Taylor’s life.

Readers need to be aware that ALL IN is not a book about a struggling Christian finding God: Cami is not a believer. She is self-aware, pragmatic even, about her lack of faith and self-destructive behavior and doesn’t worry about her soul. Does she sin? Well, yeah. She is human, and humans, whether they call themselves Christian or not, are sinners. Readers know Cami’s is a redemption story, and despite the divine intervention of having Kate dropped into Cami’s life, it takes the whole book to get there (seriously - to the final twenty pages). Truly, the book’s structure itself reflects the never-too-late religious narrative.

Regardless of one’s personal beliefs, I recommend readers be open-minded and remember that we all worship differently. Admittedly, the Pentecostal way in which Cami finally accepts Jesus Christ as her savior is outside my comfort zone. And while I believe in Jesus’ power to heal, I struggled to suspend my disbelief with how Cami’s conversion ultimately unfolded, and I think this could have been written a little differently to not alienate some readers.

For me, it took effort to step back here and not let the ending negate from the experience of reading the book. But step-back I did, and I am left with a book that I would easily recommend to others who can be non-judgmental about belief systems other than their own. The writing is stunning, the story is enthralling, and ALL IN is a powerful, realistic story that gloriously builds to one life-changing, lifesaving, defining moment.

Thank you to the author and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me a print copy in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog. ...more

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Jan 07, 2020 Tangled in Text rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Recommended to Tangled in Text by: Kristine Hall

I LOVED the premise that L.K. Simonds wrote her first novel about a young writer in the aftermath of her own breakout novel. It is hard to write a character like this and not be turned off with how stuck up and arrogant they are, but Cami was beautifully portrayed written right on that border of dislike that actually became a source of empathy towards her and was very realistically portrayed. My favorite part of this book was how well she was portrayed. As much as I loved Kate, Cami was just so I LOVED the premise that L.K. Simonds wrote her first novel about a young writer in the aftermath of her own breakout novel. It is hard to write a character like this and not be turned off with how stuck up and arrogant they are, but Cami was beautifully portrayed written right on that border of dislike that actually became a source of empathy towards her and was very realistically portrayed. My favorite part of this book was how well she was portrayed. As much as I loved Kate, Cami was just so gritty and real. I enjoyed the contrast between this strong independent woman and the fear she had in emoting. I loved her trouble past, her denial and bitterness, and her pessimistic views of the world. I loved the honest look into therapy and the internal dialogue in those first few sessions. She originally was only going to please others in her life and slowly realized she wanted to continue going for herself. It was very real wondering why you are there, thinking that you don't need this, and the awkwardness of those first few conversations.

I'm always nervous picking up a Christian fiction thinking I'm going to be drowned in religious references and hammered with an overwhelming evangelical presence and the author is going to forget to focus on the story. I've encountered that many times before and this was not it. This is the best balance of a great fiction intertwining with religious elements that I've ever read and the two actually complemented each other very well. Since the author focused so outstandingly on this story and its development having the small glimpses into religion actually made them stand out and made them have more of an impact.

I did feel like the book was running out of time though getting into the last few chapters to have this revival I had envisioned. I wish it would have ended at the dining room table with Kate and left the reader with all kinds of warm fuzzies and the ability to ponder all the possibilities of her future, but instead almost decided it for us and took things a little too far. The only thing that prevented this from being a perfect rating for me was almost everything after the dining room table in that last chapter or two when the story was extended into the church scene. That scene was a little too unexpected for me not really fitting in with the rest of the story. I was happy to see at that dining room table the title finally making an appearance, but I think the cover with that title seemed very deceiving. I almost didn't pick this book up because I know nothing about gambling and knew I wouldn't understand any references, but the title and cover are far from a good representation. Gambling is briefly mentioned being the subject matter or her first book, but it is a background element to what is really going on. All In is truly about tragedy, redemption, hope, and a selfless love that saves. ...more

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Jan 20, 2020 Sydney Young rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I wasn’t at all sure what to expect with L.K. Simonds’s novel, “All In.” The cover made me curious, was this a hustle? Why the gambling picture? If so, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read it. Still, I checked out the first page and liked what I saw, so decided to give it a try. I’m glad I did.

Cami Taylor is an author who lives in New York and who is as empty and hopeless as we come. In the first few chapters, she goes to a shrink in order to forestall the inevitable breakup with her boyfriend. She ...more

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Nov 21, 2019 Angie Fehl rated it really liked it · review of another edition

In her debut novel, L.K. Simonds introduces us to main character Cami (Camille) Taylor, who, on the cusp of thirty in the late 90s, has found professional success over the years as a blackjack dealer and published author with one best seller already under her belt. Cami's Long Island boyfriend, Joel, is more than ready to marry her and settle into domestic bliss; his only frustration with her is the emotional wall she tends to have up, blocking them from ever reaching that deepest level of In her debut novel, L.K. Simonds introduces us to main character Cami (Camille) Taylor, who, on the cusp of thirty in the late 90s, has found professional success over the years as a blackjack dealer and published author with one best seller already under her belt. Cami's Long Island boyfriend, Joel, is more than ready to marry her and settle into domestic bliss; his only frustration with her is the emotional wall she tends to have up, blocking them from ever reaching that deepest level of emotional intimacy.

Cami's not even sure she wants to go as far as marriage. She's always valued her independence far too much. But she does love Joel, so she makes an attempt to work on her emotional wall by going to therapy. In the beginning, she hopes the gesture will appease him, but it soon becomes clear that her heart isn't in the therapy process at this stage in her life. Joel and Cami come to accept they just want different things in life and the nearly two year union quietly dissolves.

While splitting up felt like the right move, it still hurts to lose someone whose presence you've gotten so used to. She tries to dip her toe back into the dating world but the pickins' ain't great out there. Even when she thinks she's scored a maybe, things turn sour one night when he mentions his girlfriend, followed by "You didn't ask." UGH. It'd be super cool if it could just be an understood rule all the way around that if you're already in a relationship YOU DON'T GO FISHING FOR ANOTHER.

This little talk does wonders for Cami's already fragile mental state and she gets to reflecting on her former life, working casinos back in New Mexico as Leona Lingo (her birth name). She thought she'd finished with that era of her life, but feeling herself heading towards a dark headspace in NYC, she figures a trip back to her hometown of Phoenix, Arizona might not be such a bad idea. But "going home" just ends up being a safe space to binge on vices. By this point in the story I was reminded a little of that Charlize Theron movie, Young Adult.

Note: the mention of casino life does not factor largely into this story except through some of Cami's referenced memories.

Eventually Cami works her way back to NYC, where she has an unexpected introduction to distant relative Kate Davis. After a day spent getting to know each other, Kate invites Cami to a family reunion being held in Texas. This ends up being the start of a legit growing family bond between the ladies that will serve Cami well later in the story when she'll need all the support she can get after receiving some life-altering news.

Cami's main motivation for going to new places or meeting new people often seems to fall to "well, it'll be great material for the next novel." Though she's rarely in it to make new friends or grab life by the horns, she still grudgingly puts herself out there time and again. By doing so, life shows her (and through her experiences, the reader) that if one is willing to embrace experiences even halfway openly, the takeaway can be so much more than ever imagined. It's no different when Cami takes on Texas (even if she's inwardly laughing to herself about just how out of her environment she truly is). I did find it a little weird, though, her being flirty with Jake. Yeah, he's a distant cousin... but, still. Should be a pretty standard rule: don't hit on people at a family reunion!

Throughout the entire story, it's alluded to that there might be something off with Cami's health, but she drags her feet getting herself checked out. Finally, after a bout of sickness that scares her enough to finally make an appointment... the diagnosis the doctor comes back with... wow, I was not expecting the story to go that direction at all! Virtually nothing hints at it, save for maybe one scene. The reality check leaves atheist Cami pondering on God, life, all the big questions.

Cami as a character, well, she can be a tough one to bond with because she often reads emotionally flat. It makes sense, that's part of the character flaw in her that sort of sets her on this whole path. Still, it can make for frustrating reading when she comes off as so emotionless. But I don't think it's a matter of her being devoid of feeling, but more her being afraid to feel. Life experiences, the world at large... it's all left her with a lot of disappointment. You go through enough of that for long enough, you get to where it seems like the easier path to just numb your heart to any more stabs. As far as other characters, it seemed like each one has a quality to them that'll have you saying YES! I know someone exactly like that! So, bravo to Simonds on wonderful attention to character detail!

There is an understated lyrical quality to Simond's writing style that I ended up quite liking. It took me a little time to really get into this plot... but I'll admit I wasn't in the best mood the day I decided to start this one. Initially, I wasn't sure I was going to like Cami, but, if I'm being honest, it might've been because I was seeing more of myself in her than I liked LOL, some of the sides of me I'm not so proud of. But like Cami, I'm working on them in my own time and I'll get there, eventually.

FTC DISCLAIMER: BookCrash.com & author L.K. Simonds kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own. ...more

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Jan 17, 2020 Jenn Belden rated it really liked it · review of another edition

ALL IN does not have not your typical Christian fiction protagonist. Successful author Cami Taylor is not sweet, nor gentle. She has hard edges, smokes, drinks, and is emotionally detached. On the surface, actually, she's a pretty unlikeable character - and as this book is billed as Christian fiction, it didn't mesh with my expectations right from the start.

I was intrigued.

Author L.K. Simonds drops tidbits all around that provide insight on WHY she is so detached, jaded, and (dare Isay)

ALL IN does not have not your typical Christian fiction protagonist. Successful author Cami Taylor is not sweet, nor gentle. She has hard edges, smokes, drinks, and is emotionally detached. On the surface, actually, she's a pretty unlikeable character - and as this book is billed as Christian fiction, it didn't mesh with my expectations right from the start.

I was intrigued.

Author L.K. Simonds drops tidbits all around that provide insight on WHY she is so detached, jaded, and (dare I say) emotionally damaged, and when her boyfriend suggests therapy - and Cami actually goes - we get the hint that she really doesn't want to be this way either, and I was drawn even further into the story.

"When I examine the situation in the cold light of day, I see precious little to look forward to as far as relationships go. Apparently, the road to happiness must be traveled in vehicles I loathe: Sacrifice. Compromise. Surrender."

The plot maintains a moderate pace as the story unfolds, and Simonds does an excellent job of developing the world that Cami lives in. The strength of the book, however, was its characters. Each one provides an opportunity to reveal a little bit more insight into Cami, and each is well crafted. Kate is very much everything that Cami is not - gentle where Cami is all sharp edges, forgiving and open vs guarded. Her scenes with Sam - however brief - are impactful and a turning point for her.

"Oh man! What I wouldn't give to believe something that wonderful. I wish I had such a safety net to catch me as I'm falling, as I'm falling even now. Some belief - I don't care what, it doesn't matter - into which I could trust myself to plunge without harm. But I'm a skeptic tottering on the edge of a dark, bottomless pit, with no safety net, no lifeline, and nothing below to break my fall."

Cami's relationship with her faith does change and grow as the book progresses. I loved how her connection starts with words - as a writer, she first connects with the flow and the beauty in a bible passage, and it draws her in and provides her with peace. The manner in which her faith progresses was another area that diverges from my usual experiences with Christian fiction - this is no gentle series of God reaching through. Staying consistent with the book, her journey is explosive and abrupt.

Cami gets dealt a pretty terrifying, life-changing blow midway through the novel, and her response to it was in line with her character. However, as the story reaches its culmination, it goes in an unexpected direction (no spoilers) and I was admittedly initially a bit disappointed with the way it was handled because it felt like the easy way out. Or, perhaps, because the author HAD dragged me in, I was hooked, and things kind of spun out in a direction that I couldn't connect with.

But, this is the author's tale, not mine, and the path Cami travels is reflective of the charismatic church that Kate worships at. It was difficult at the onset to separate out my differences in faith with those in the book, and how I felt about the direction it took. Also, while some books either gently edge around faith, working it in seamlessly or are in your face and preachy, this story comes from a place of total lack of faith at all and then turns a corner and punches the gas, hard. It's not a smooth progression - it's jarring and overwhelming, reflective of Cami's journey.

However, this book is ultimately about one woman's journey - one that is wrought with jagged emotion, raw and real. It was refreshing to see Christian fiction depicting a fully flawed, complicated, imperfect person on their path to faith. It is a powerfully written tale.

I was provided a digital copy of the book for review purposes. All opinions are my own. ...more

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Jan 14, 2020 Kelly Well Read rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2020

3.5 Stars. I buy all the Fiction and Romance titles for the library system where I work, including Christian Fiction ("CF"). CF readers know to expect certain things from that genre: character-driven, faith based to some degree, with no profanity, graphic violence or sex contained therein. These stories are sometimes referred to as "gentle reads."

All In by L.K. Simonds is classified as Christian Fiction, but it does not fall within the expectations of the genre. As long as readers know that 3.5 Stars. I buy all the Fiction and Romance titles for the library system where I work, including Christian Fiction ("CF"). CF readers know to expect certain things from that genre: character-driven, faith based to some degree, with no profanity, graphic violence or sex contained therein. These stories are sometimes referred to as "gentle reads."

All In by L.K. Simonds is classified as Christian Fiction, but it does not fall within the expectations of the genre. As long as readers know that going into this well-written and engaging novel, there shouldn't be too much of a shock to the system. The author's beliefs about the way God lives and moves in our world today are different in some ways from my own; so other than an ending that was not quite what I was expecting, I enjoyed watching a character struggle with life in this often inexplicable world and find some hope and redemption in the end.

Cami Taylor is an author living in New York City who has recently published a very successful debut novel. She is living the dream: has a nice apartment, a loving boyfriend, and is close to finishing a second book. All that starts to fall apart when her boyfriend pushes her for a commitment, and she realizes she doesn't want the same life he has imagined for them together. He accuses her of being closed off and removed in their relationship and encourages her to see a therapist to try to figure out some of her "issues." She doesn't appreciate that (who would?) but goes anyway.

The scenes with the therapist are very realistic based on my own experiences, and we get to know a little more about Cami through them. She was an afterthought in her parent's life, wasn't nurtured by them, and spent a lot of time alone as a child. She learned early on not to depend on anyone and to seek satisfaction in her life on her own terms. She has had many lovers, casual one night stands, and her moral compass is far from what one usually sees in this genre.

The unexpected sex scenes are tastefully written; but more importantly we begin to see the negative effects Cami's lifestyle is having on her, both physically and mentally. When she receives a shocking diagnosis, she escapes to Texas to stay with a recently discovered distant relative who is a evangelical Christian. Through her interactions with multiple characters in the second half of the book, Cami begins to evaluate some of the mistakes of her past and decides she wants a different life for herself.

There are a few places in the book that I did find unrealistic, but I cannot go into details without spoiling the story for future readers. And, as a Christian myself, I do have some different beliefs about how God interacts with his creation in our contemporary world. Because of that, the ending was not as satisfying to me as the first part of the book.

What kept resonating with me, though, is this: life is messy; we can be very selfish; we make mistakes, daily, and are not always sorry for them. Yet, God loves us in spite of ourselves and created a way of redemption for us all. Cami Taylor personifies this messy life her behavior and thoughts, and I cared for her as a character because she is very human, as we all are. Some CF readers might not enjoy this book for the reasons I mentioned at the beginning of this review. But I am glad I got to witness Cami's journey as, in the end, she went All In.
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Jan 20, 2020 H. Ringer rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Cami is as independent of a character you can get. She’s a writer that observes people, imagining their lives and motives, but ultimately pushing them away to remain in her bubble. When faced with someone seeking more, a typical ‘white-picket fence’ life, she wants nothing more than to run. While she struggles to determine what she really wants in life, her own decisions and discoveries leave her even more at odds. There’s more to loneliness than being lonely. Cami struggles with this Cami is as independent of a character you can get. She’s a writer that observes people, imagining their lives and motives, but ultimately pushing them away to remain in her bubble. When faced with someone seeking more, a typical ‘white-picket fence’ life, she wants nothing more than to run. While she struggles to determine what she really wants in life, her own decisions and discoveries leave her even more at odds. There’s more to loneliness than being lonely. Cami struggles with this existential dread that seems to have her denying wanting anything more for herself. From the start she says about relationships:

“I’m only twenty-nine years old, but I’ve pretty much seen and done it all. What are my choices, really? Apparently, the road to happiness must be traveled in vehicles I loathe: Sacrifice. Compromise. Surrender.”

I found it almost comical reading this at beginning of her narrative. Maybe it was hard to be in her shoes in this aspect but being in your twenties and thinking you’ve seen it all really stuck with me. I’ve been there. Then, of course, a few years or months pass and perspective hits you in the face. Cami is very analyzing to her own feelings but keeps this all in. Being the reader to these thoughts and feelings was a great choice and one of my favorite aspects to the book. To an outside perspective, it would be difficult to like Cami’s character and the actions she takes. Of course, most of her behavior seems to be a challenge to others and how they’ll react. While I type this, I realize how critical it may sound towards Cami. Ultimately, she’s human and has made mistakes. She struggles and is down to earth in a way that she is completely drifting aimlessly. Like many of us. She doesn’t know what she doesn’t know. It’s when everything starts to fall apart and her emotions are on the peak of exploding that she starts to snap out of this.

I can see why this Christian Fiction can have mixed views. Faith isn’t always easy. Especially if your intention is to share it with someone. I think that All In shares something different here. An emotional path, one with desperation but also acceptance. Maybe faith won’t heal all wounds but it helps accept them. I think Cami finds most of her peace this way. After living her formative years thinking it was normal to feel underwhelmed, meaning in God gives her hope for more.

Funnily enough, the ending reminded me of one of my favorite books, Life of Pi. I won’t share spoilers, but the book definitely had subtle metaphors that made me think of it. Not every person of faith or none will like the ending. Or maybe they will. It depends on our own emotional journey and what has lead us to this point. Maybe even putting aside faith, a reader will appreciate the impressive first novel Simonds released. They’ll enjoy the inner complexities of Cami and hopefulness of Kate. They’ll love the building of scenes that paint descriptive and engaging imagery that spark your imagination. They’ll think on their own faith and discuss it with others. A success in my opinion! ...more

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Jan 16, 2020 Ruthie Jones rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle-book, lone-star-book-blog-tours

"What's it like to want all the right things?"

ALL IN by L.K. Simonds is a literary wonderland of metafiction, symbolism, and imagery. Cami Taylor is almost 30, hails from Phoenix, lives in New York City, and is writing her second novel on the heels of her first bestseller. Cami is like everyone else on the planet. She is both ordinary and unique. She is a successful author, an only child of parents who were not young when she was born, an ex-blackjack dealer, and promiscuous. She currently loves "What's it like to want all the right things?"

ALL IN by L.K. Simonds is a literary wonderland of metafiction, symbolism, and imagery. Cami Taylor is almost 30, hails from Phoenix, lives in New York City, and is writing her second novel on the heels of her first bestseller. Cami is like everyone else on the planet. She is both ordinary and unique. She is a successful author, an only child of parents who were not young when she was born, an ex-blackjack dealer, and promiscuous. She currently loves Joel and enjoys their relationship, but unlike him, she is not ready to attach those strings. What's a girl to do? Cami warily heads into therapy but without the open-minded conviction that it will do any good.

Cami Taylor is also an agnostic. Her spiritual journey throughout ALL IN may not fit the mold of the standard Christian Fiction or imitate what many Christians have experienced in their own journey, but her sojourn is a valid one—slow and subtle before becoming completely chaotic and frenetic. L.K. Simonds brilliantly illustrates through Cami that there certainly must be more than one road to Damascus. Cami's experience is raw and laden with wreckage and heartache, but it is hers and hers alone and thus beautifully authentic.

When a distant relative contacts her and wants to connect, Cami reluctantly agrees. Kate is an older cousin who is warm and inviting, and she is an integral part of the overall story. When Cami receives some life-shattering news, she retreats to Dallas, Texas, and into Kate's welcoming, unconditional embrace. While Cami is the protagonist here, Kate must not be overlooked for what she represents. She is a wife and mother, but she also epitomizes the very essence of Christianity—faith, hope, love, tolerance, patience, mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Moreover, Kate embodies the dichotomy of the biblical Martha and Mary in that she both serves and listens. With Cami, Kate easily knows when to advance and when to retreat, always with open arms and gentle hands that soothe, guide, and catch Cami when she dramatically falls and steady her when she rises from the ashes.

The dynamic Christian conversion story is weaved throughout this highly entertaining novel, and the ending may catch readers off guard and leave them wide eyed and filled with whatever emotion they are willing to receive—wonder, skepticism, acknowledgement, disbelief, or perhaps even hope.

For a debut novel, Simonds knocks it out of the literary park. The pacing is moderate, and the prose lures you into Cami's edgy existence. While all the characters are intricately portrayed, Cami is, of course, the main attraction. She is agonizingly flawed, cynical, and often infuriating, yet she is also touchingly vulnerable, especially when her internal protective barrier begins to crumble, and her proverbial path to spiritual enlightenment becomes illuminated.

If you appreciate evocative literary fiction that sparks conversation, debate, and maybe even some self-reflection, then ALL IN by L.K. Simonds is the perfect book for you. ...more

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Aug 25, 2019 Arlena rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Title: All In
Author: L.K. Simonds
Publisher: Morgan James Fiction
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"All In" by L. K. Simonds

My Rationalization:

I will say I really enjoyed this read by L. K. Simonds even though it was not meant to be a pleasant or a comfortable read. When you are dealing with 'Human Immunodeficiency Virus' nothing can be said to be great about that!

This author really gives the reader something very important to think about during the realistic read. Yes, we will find Title: All In
Author: L.K. Simonds
Publisher: Morgan James Fiction
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"All In" by L. K. Simonds

My Rationalization:

I will say I really enjoyed this read by L. K. Simonds even though it was not meant to be a pleasant or a comfortable read. When you are dealing with 'Human Immunodeficiency Virus' nothing can be said to be great about that!

This author really gives the reader something very important to think about during the realistic read. Yes, we will find Cami quite a mess but her road to redemption was a class act to follow with a storyline that will keep you quite engaged as you are turning the pages to see what was coming next.

Now when I said this was beautiful what I meant by that was how well this author delivers the story for all to understand. This was a read in how the story was so captivating and well written all the way to the end with descriptions that are simply amazing to read along with some very interesting characters. And I loved how the author presented this story in the t-person present tense. I will say as I read through the story I found it quite a tear joker for me with what was going on that the church visit. I especially loved this part of the story!

I will say the main reason I loved the read was because I was brought up in a church with both of my parents being ministers and I realized what was happening to Cami sounded so very real to me. Yes, it was raw and could have been something that could have happened. Yes, I do believe this could be exactly what can happen as we go through our daily lives with those who are having 'recreational sex with just anyone from ones past to one-night stands and seduction.'

By the end of the read, I do believe a lesson was learned whether it was a miracle or not. Definitely, it is for you and you alone to decide to note that it is not for us to decide what is a horrible sin but let God show them the love and therefore letting God do the work of changing their lives as it was in the story. Now, I will also add I believe this novel will benefit the adult in the room rather than the teens, with the truth smacking us in the face with it as we see how Cami journeys to the correct transformation that for her she did not expect to happen. I can only leave the reader saying thank God Cami surrounded herself around the right people [Kate] as she was beginning to spiral out as the story brings us though 'the relationships, struggles, self-discovery, to final redemption!' Yes, again I loved the read.

Thank you to NetGallery and Morgan James for the read and my voicing my honest opinion of the read. ...more

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Jan 15, 2020 Ariel Hess rated it it was amazing

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from Lone Star Literary Life partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copies used in this review are finalized copies sent to me in exchange for my honest review. #partner #LSBBT

This book is a fast and easy read. I completed this book in one sitting. The first two chapters captured my attention and kept it through to the end. Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from Lone Star Literary Life partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copies used in this review are finalized copies sent to me in exchange for my honest review. #partner #LSBBT

This book is a fast and easy read. I completed this book in one sitting. The first two chapters captured my attention and kept it through to the end. You can tell the author took the time to research to develop the main character’s storyline fully. Cami’s interaction with her therapist seems both comic and realistic. I enjoyed how the author allowed the reader into the mind of the main character. The author hits a lot fo key points in the novel during the unfolding of the plot. The plot thickens with Cami getting results from her latest physical that was requested by her therapist. She gets some test results that change the trajectory of her life leading her to contemplate the life she has lived thus far. The author uses Kate, the stranger who says their related, to show Cami what compassion looks like and guide her to God. This Christian based novel dives into the relief of finding God when you’re at your weakest. In the Bible it discusses that God does his best work when you are at your weakest. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says “9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” As Christian, I enjoyed the fact that the author allowed the character to fall apart and then find Christ. It was an exceptional part of the novel for me to see Cami transformed and essentially healed physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I. like how the author did not dramatize the depiction of her coming to God and releasing full control. I am not going to tell you the results of her test results but reading it was like “Woah.” I’ve never read a novel that describes parts of my life and no one talks about that in novels often.

I thoroughly enjoyed the entirety of this novel and the baseline it was crafted on. I did feel a few areas of the novel could have been developed more such as I wanted more from her story with Joel and more at the ending. I do hope there is a second book so we can see how Cami progressed after coming to God. If you’re looking for a Christian influenced novel that focuses on recovery, self-realization, self-forgiveness, and spiritual growth then this is your novel. I read this book in one sitting and could not put it down until I finished it. ...more

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Jul 27, 2019 Debbie rated it did not like it

When I first started this book I was not sure if I would finish reading it because it is about an author who is living life to the fullest in today’s standards, one night stands, just living life the way she wanted with no thought s of anyone but herself. Within the first 65 pages there are two sex scenes that is not explicit with describing the act itself and no body parts are mentioned but more descriptive then I like. The language wasn't that great either. God's name was mentioned several When I first started this book I was not sure if I would finish reading it because it is about an author who is living life to the fullest in today’s standards, one night stands, just living life the way she wanted with no thought s of anyone but herself. Within the first 65 pages there are two sex scenes that is not explicit with describing the act itself and no body parts are mentioned but more descriptive then I like. The language wasn't that great either. God's name was mentioned several times that I took as a swear word and I don't think that should be overlooked even if the character saying it wasn't a Christian. There were other words that I know some don't consider swear words, and if you have read other reviews by me than you know I may be a prude but I want no sex scenes or even mild swear words in the books I read, especially if they are categorized as a Christian.

I know my opinion on this book is not the same as most of the reviewers on this tour, but I feel I must be honest and let other readers know what is in the book. Yes, the story line is great and the plot makes it a worthwhile story but it was too graphic in the worldly. I think the book would have been better if it had been focused on what happened after the redeeming event in Cami's life. Yes, I know I'm not an author, but I'm am a reader and don't author write for readers to enjoy their stories and shouldn't Christian writers write to glorify Christ and not to please the carnal nature of sinners. Yes, this book does show that sin is ugly and has it's consequences but the book mostly is about the sinful and not the reedeming.

Well, I finished reading the whole book and I did fine a few things that I liked, the main character was an author and someone named Debbie read her book, readers like to see their names in books, right. I truly did enjoy reading pages 251-253, as it told Cami and readers that we are what Jesus came for, that we are the reason He was born on Christmas Day and endured Calvary and rose on Easter.

This is a redeeming story that readers need to hear but I really believe it could have been told in a somewhat different way, other authors have.

I realized this is the first book by this author and if she writes another book, I would read it and hopely see more what I like to read.

I received a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own. ...more

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Jan 18, 2020 Mike rated it really liked it · review of another edition

All In reminds me of a coming-of-age story, but it’s not. As a matter of fact, the main character has already been “around the block” more times than most. However, this story is more about self-discovery in the face of adversity.

This story is labeled as Christian Fiction - and that is certainly true, particularly near the end - but it is nevertheless a story that can and will raise emotions in a reader. Although slow in the beginning, Simonds finds a nice pace around the middle of the book, and ...more

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Jan 23, 2020 Christena rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Book rating: 4.5 stars

“Oh, no, I’ve always believed in God. It never made any sense to me the way some people think the world just happened, just pulled itself together. Things always seem to be going the other direction, you know? Falling apart.”

My initial disclaimer that I am mentioning again is that I do not read book synopses when I’m reviewing a book. It is my process where I allow the story to unfold for me with each turn of the page. All I really knew about All In is that it had a Book rating: 4.5 stars

“Oh, no, I’ve always believed in God. It never made any sense to me the way some people think the world just happened, just pulled itself together. Things always seem to be going the other direction, you know? Falling apart.”

My initial disclaimer that I am mentioning again is that I do not read book synopses when I’m reviewing a book. It is my process where I allow the story to unfold for me with each turn of the page. All I really knew about All In is that it had a Christian theme. The story itself I am thoroughly spellbound by.

For L.K. Simonds’s breakout novel she has done a spectacular job with the tough subjects of illness and religion spiraling around her main character, Cami. Cami’s illness is not something that is ever going to go away completely, but All In handled this touchy topic in a profound way. It reminded me of my own personal dealings with a man named Alan who died after getting the same diagnosis. Simonds interjects the religious aspects impeccably.

Cami is truthfully a character that is unforgettable and somewhat relatable. The entirety of her not-so-short life is one that is well-lived, yet self-destructive. As the story progresses Cami thinks she does not need anyone and yet as the story evolves, her walls break down and what she finds, in the end, is love and redemption.

While I question many of my own beliefs around God, All In did leave me inspired to read Corinthians.

Another moment of honesty: before I left for a weekend trip to New Mexico with a friend, I got a text from a family member who said she was going to pray for me. I was about 100 pages into the book when the text came. After finishing this story I kind of sat in stunned silence wondering not of the connection – but marveling if there is a God, an all-knowing power beyond what I can ever comprehend.

For readers who are looking for something to read that is a gritty and refreshingly real story that does not propel religion with every turn of the page but makes you question religion for the better – then check out All In. ...more

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Sep 15, 2019 J.L. Callison rated it it was amazing

All In : a novel

This was a difficult story to read, for it doesn’t read like a happy novel. It is dark and gritty in places―devoid of hope―like true life. Much like the lives of men I have worked with in rescue missions and jails.

Cami wants to run her life her own way, as a typical human being who rejects God in her life. She has no hope, no real friends, for she pushes them away, afraid to commit. It is not until she is totally without hope that she is willing to allow God any chance in her All In : a novel

This was a difficult story to read, for it doesn’t read like a happy novel. It is dark and gritty in places―devoid of hope―like true life. Much like the lives of men I have worked with in rescue missions and jails.

Cami wants to run her life her own way, as a typical human being who rejects God in her life. She has no hope, no real friends, for she pushes them away, afraid to commit. It is not until she is totally without hope that she is willing to allow God any chance in her life. But, as happens when one allows God a chance, He changes her life radically as it says in the book of Jeremiah, beyond anything she could hope or imagine. (Chapter thirty-three verse three) The God who created Cami in his own image, sought for her until she was willing to allow him access.

Simond’s writing is clear, crisp, and captivating. She has a gift of description that is not cloying or slow. Her use of metaphor and simile is unlike any writer that comes to mind and enrichs what could be only a commonplace novel without them.

As a fellow writer, I found one passage telling in which Cami is discussing the novel she has written with a distant relative. She says, “That’s an important thing about fiction, not only telling a story, but helping the reader see and feel things. Maybe even understand things, they wouldn’t―couldn’t―otherwise.”

Ms. Simonds, you have made me see and feel things I honestly did not care to face, but my life is richer for having done so. Thank you for a genuine and moving story that brings to life who Jesus the Christ really is and how much He loves us. As Kate told Cami, “Jesus is here now.” . . . “He paid the sacrifice to open this moment to you. All you have to do is say yes. You aren’t worthy―none of us are―but Jesus’s blood opens the holy place to you anyway. Can you believe this?”

It is my prayer that readers of this book will learn that they, too, can access this holy place through the sacrifice Jesus the Christ paid for them, too.
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May 31, 2019 Peyton Hammond rated it it was amazing

~I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review~

I did not see it coming. The "hook" was not what I was expecting but the one that was given was still amazing. I had to start with that.

I found Cami self-absorbed but I did not mind it at all. I got caught up in her fast-paced life, not knowing if the relationship you were in was what you actually wanted, meeting new family, and during her crisis. I felt those emotions right along with her. I felt a genuine ...more

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Apr 08, 2019 Barbara Ochoa rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I was given this book to read and so I did, even though my favorite genre is murder mysteries. I have to admit, it started off a bit slow and I was getting fed up with the selfishness of the main character, and thought some elements of the tale a bit unrealistic, at least in my experience: however, once the "hook" set in (I don't want to give any details of the book so let's just call it the hook), that was all the motivation I needed to keep reading. I learned from reading this book-- a bit ...more

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Dec 11, 2019 Kathi rated it really liked it · review of another edition

When I won this book through the Goodreads contest I wasn't sure what to expect since I am not a regular reader of Christian fiction; but WOW! I found the book to be intriguing and thought provoking. Cami is a strong-willed, ambitious, successful woman...a woman with a past that haunts her in many ways that she can not see until a tragedy strikes. Her journey through life is reckless, gritty and a reality of what can happen in our world. The "bad" happens to bring the "good" to her life.

In ...more

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Jul 30, 2019 Katie rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Deep breath ... ok I'm ready to give this review. This one was a tough one to review ya'll. I really had to think it through and absorb the book. So first up, let me say this book is for adults only mostly because the premise delves into the life of a person in bondage to sin that is desperate for happiness because they don't know the Lord. I think reading this book was very uncomfortable, but necessary because we have to remember none of us, none of us, is anything without the Lord. Our sin is Deep breath ... ok I'm ready to give this review. This one was a tough one to review ya'll. I really had to think it through and absorb the book. So first up, let me say this book is for adults only mostly because the premise delves into the life of a person in bondage to sin that is desperate for happiness because they don't know the Lord. I think reading this book was very uncomfortable, but necessary because we have to remember none of us, none of us, is anything without the Lord. Our sin is no less than anyone else's because the Lord is truly perfect and holy, and this books smacks us in the face with that truth. This book also opens our eyes to the desperation those without the Lord experience, and reminds us rather than being judgmental thinking how could someone live in this horrible sin? We should see them as God does, and realize the hopelessness they feel. When we look through those eyes, we have compassion, and show them the love we have found in Jesus and let Jesus do the work of changing their lives. I feel I have never read a book that puts us into these people's shoes more realistically. The characters were complex, salvation was clearly presented, and the emotion was very, very real. People live this in real life, ya'll. We need to understand their feelings. The quality of writing was excellent as well.

Second part to my review- while this book was obviously not meant to be pleasant or comfortable, there were aspects that made me uncomfortable because I didn't feel the detail was necessary. One was the sensuality. It was realistic, and that is not what bothered me- it was the detail. Some detail was necessary to understand why the character turned to that, but it was just too much. Also, language. I can forgive some mild language, but it makes me shudder when someone takes the Lord's name in vain, and I felt that was completely unnecessary. I understand again the reality of it, I just felt it didn't have to take that form. Last, the theology. While I found the salvation message to be done well, some very controversial theology just about ruined the book for me. I think the book could have done without it because it alienates readers when you include such controversial theology, and in reality, isn't the point of Christian fiction to point the world to the Lord? It's sad to me because a book about not being judgmental ended up feeling judgmental if you didn't jive with the theology presented outside of the salvation message.

Overall, this one is tough to read, but I feel like everyone should read it because it is the most realistic take I have seen on a modern person struggling to do life without God, and I feel that is something we all should understand.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own. ...more

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Jul 18, 2019 Chautona Havig rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sometimes We Need the Ugly to Embrace the Beautiful
When I read the synopsis for All In, I was. All in. I pictured a book pretty much like I got. The synopsis is spot-on without giving away the whole plot, either.

I didn’t like Cami at first, and I don’t think I was supposed to. However, like I was supposed to, I did feel sorry for her. I even wanted to pray for her.

Told in first-person present tense (and better than most with that style), the story keeps you engaged as you almost plead with her ...more

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Jul 28, 2019 Deana Dick rated it it was ok · review of another edition

In the story Cami is uncaring, daring and downright sinful. She doesn’t care what people think or how she is perceived . There are several times in the book where the author goes into details about encounters with men that I found very offensive. I think she could have written it in a way that gets the point across with out going into details. Like I said I understand sin is harsh , but in a Christian Fiction book we should not be okay with taking such liberties that cross genres.

The last half ...more

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Jun 03, 2019 Rebecca rated it really liked it · review of another edition

L.K. Simonds’ debut novel marks her as an author to watch. Her protagonist Cami Taylor feels authentic, and I became caught up in her dizzying success, heart-numbing emptiness, and devastating crisis. All In, aptly titled to compare the protagonist’s life to gambling, delivers multiple thought-provoking comparisons. My favorite was Cami’s skeptical reaction to a Catholic church’s candles: “I suppose they represent a thermodynamic theology, in which pious prayers are given a boost up to heaven on ...more

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Nov 21, 2019 Marie rated it it was ok

Thank you in advance to Book Crash and the author (LK Simonds) for sending me a complimentary copy to review. A positive review was not requested nor required, and all words are my own.

As of this year, I discovered the “Christian Fiction” genre (Fiction, Romance, Suspense), so I was eager to read this novel, especially after this tag line:

Cami Taylor – former blackjack dealer, writer, and fraud

The cover also stood out for me, especially since I was raised in Las Vegas. Gambling occupies almost ...more

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Jul 24, 2019 Erin rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: celebrate-lit

All In is a debut novel that hits it out of the park. Prepare to be captivated and not leave the pages of the book until you’ve devoured every word.

Okay, honest time. I started this book. And then I put it down and read another. It wasn’t that it wasn’t written well. Because it is wel written. It’s a really really good book once you get past the first few chapters.

Cami is very self-absorbed. And there are some words and scenes and things within the covers of this book that I’m not on board with. All In is a debut novel that hits it out of the park. Prepare to be captivated and not leave the pages of the book until you’ve devoured every word.

Okay, honest time. I started this book. And then I put it down and read another. It wasn’t that it wasn’t written well. Because it is wel written. It’s a really really good book once you get past the first few chapters.

Cami is very self-absorbed. And there are some words and scenes and things within the covers of this book that I’m not on board with. But, despite those, or because of them, this is still a wonderful book.

All In shares about the deep soul-saving redemptive love of God. It challenges us to look deeper and go deeper. While Cami matures and becomes less self-absorbed we get new ideas and new thoughts on her as a person but also on us as individuals and as followers of Christ.

Do I recommend All In as a good book? Yes, I do. But, I do want people to go into it with eyes wide open. There are some scenes that I truly think could have been left out. Words could have been left out(yes I’m talking curse words) and some activities like drugs/alcohol could have been left out. They’re in here though. Know this when you start reading.

I did not know this and that’s why I did take a break from the book. I came back, I restarted the book, and I finished the book. But while reading the book I did have to dig deep. It made me think and it challenged me. That is why I recommend it and think you might want to give it a read.

This is not one I would recommend for teens. In fact, my copy was a physical copy and I’m passing it on to other adults to read so that it does not stick around in my house for a teen to pick up. My teens are 14 and under and this is not something I want them reading at this point in their lives.

Gambling. All In shows you a parallel between life and cards. I’m not a card player. In fact, if it’s not solitaire chances are I have no clue what you’re talking about. This did leave me a little lost to the connection a few times, but I muddled through it.

So in conclusion. I’m not sure what genre I’d classify this book besides Christian fiction. I would classify it as an adult only book.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations. ...more

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