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Grace #2
Unbound by Grace: a novella
When the past holds the future captive, there is only ONE chain breaker.
Tori Bishop has carved out a safe circle of friends who know nothing of her privileged status. But when she's roped into attending a glitzy fundraiser, she brings along strong and steadfast Derek for support. As long as her secret stays safe, she never has to question his motives.Derek Miller wants his life to count for something, to make a difference-especially in the life of Tori Bishop, the spunky smart-mouth who loves razzing him. But if his prison record comes to light, she's sure to take off running.When Tori and Derek get involved in building a local women's shelter, the extra time together stirs more than an ember of attraction. Haunted by the fear of exposure, each must wrestle with the chains of their pasts to experience freedom, love, and the full depths of God's grace. About Unbound by Grace This inspirational Christian novella explores the ways in which our pasts-- mistakes, betrayals, wounds-- can keep us from experiencing the full depth of God's grace. But releasing our pasts to Him can free us to receive new life and love. An follow-up to Grace in the Flames, this shorter read delivers a meaningful faith journey as well as a fun, flirty, and heart-pounding love story.Scroll up and grab your copy of UNBOUND BY GRACE today!
198 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2018
191 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 17, 2024
Unbound by Grace kept me up until the wee hours considering this thoughtful exploration of the truth that sometimes having everything can be as much of a trap as having nothing and that we’re all broken in different ways. Massaro’s characters stepped off the pages and into my heart. They made me smile, sometimes brought a tear, made me ponder, but most of all had me holding my breath longing for grace to win in the end. You won’t be disappointed!
October 2, 2018
“They were all just broken people, cracked in hidden places only God could restore.”
This is my first read by Michelle Massaro & I was drawn to the story for its diverse characters. We see so little of this in Christian fiction that I’m always eager to find new-to-me authors who write with diversity in mind. Not only did Tori and Derek come from different ethnic backgrounds, they also had socio-economic cultures and backstories that were about as polar opposite as they could get. I loved that, even with these pretty stark differences, the author used these protagonists to show that really – in our hearts – we are much alike. We’re insecure about the same core things (though maybe the root reasons are slightly different), and we have the inherent desire to be accepted for who we are, regardless of where we came from.
Meaningful messages aside, Unbound by Grace is also a cute romance with fun banter and swoony kisses! #priorities, am I right? Tori and Derek have an obvious attraction to each other that, though challenged by their individual insecurities and prejudices, gets sweeter right along with their deepening friendship. This may be a novella but I didn’t feel their relationship was too rushed or unrealistically paced.
Bottom Line: To paraphrase the great Lewis Carroll, we’re all a little broken here. Or a lot. And wrapped in this sweet & swoony story of two people falling in love is a tender message of grace amid our brokenness. Our stories shape us but they don’t have to define us, and Tori and Derek are each multi-layered characters who remind us that we are ultimately defined by God’s grace and restoration of our lives. I didn’t really feel like I was immersed in the story world with these characters – but the story itself was compelling and engaging nonetheless.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at ReadingIsMySuperPower
This is my first read by Michelle Massaro & I was drawn to the story for its diverse characters. We see so little of this in Christian fiction that I’m always eager to find new-to-me authors who write with diversity in mind. Not only did Tori and Derek come from different ethnic backgrounds, they also had socio-economic cultures and backstories that were about as polar opposite as they could get. I loved that, even with these pretty stark differences, the author used these protagonists to show that really – in our hearts – we are much alike. We’re insecure about the same core things (though maybe the root reasons are slightly different), and we have the inherent desire to be accepted for who we are, regardless of where we came from.
Meaningful messages aside, Unbound by Grace is also a cute romance with fun banter and swoony kisses! #priorities, am I right? Tori and Derek have an obvious attraction to each other that, though challenged by their individual insecurities and prejudices, gets sweeter right along with their deepening friendship. This may be a novella but I didn’t feel their relationship was too rushed or unrealistically paced.
Bottom Line: To paraphrase the great Lewis Carroll, we’re all a little broken here. Or a lot. And wrapped in this sweet & swoony story of two people falling in love is a tender message of grace amid our brokenness. Our stories shape us but they don’t have to define us, and Tori and Derek are each multi-layered characters who remind us that we are ultimately defined by God’s grace and restoration of our lives. I didn’t really feel like I was immersed in the story world with these characters – but the story itself was compelling and engaging nonetheless.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at ReadingIsMySuperPower
September 19, 2018
When the past holds the future captive, there is only ONE chain breaker… Tori Bishop has carved out a safe circle of friends who know nothing of her privileged status. But when she’s roped into attending a glitzy fundraiser, she brings along strong and steadfast Derek for support. As long as her secret stays safe, she never has to question his motives. Derek Miller wants his life to count for something, to make a difference—especially in the life of Tori Bishop, the spunky smart-mouth who loves razzing him. But if his prison record comes to light, she’s sure to take off running. When Tori and Derek get involved in building a local women’s shelter, the extra time together stirs more than an ember of attraction. Haunted by the fear of exposure, each must wrestle with the chains of their pasts to experience freedom, love, and the full depths of God’s grace.
My Thoughts: This is another book I truly enjoyed. The reader can identify with the characters in the book. A wonderful book on breaking down walls, letting go of our fears, taking chances and of course grace.
A Story of two people trying to escape their position in life, one a privileged one and the other a life of poverty.
I love how author Michelle Massaro develops the story-line that shows us no matter what has happened in our lives, our past is our past, God loves us and we can be used by Him.
There is one line in the book that still sits with me " I can see Jesus in his eyes". This is what Tori says about Derek This is what I want people to see in me.
It's also a reminder that once we accept Christ, we all have a new beginning.
This book was a wonderful read, that was hard to put down. I look forward to reading more from Michelle Massaro.
September 21, 2018
Unbound by Grace by Michelle Massaro
When the past holds the future captive, there is only ONE chain breaker…
My rating is 4.5 stars
Derek was a new creation. He had been saved out of a life of sin. He was white as snow. And yet, because of his past, he struggled. A lot. He felt that if people knew, they would treat him like an outcast. It was hard enough for him to find people to trust him with a job!
Tori had almost the opposite problem. She kept her “privileged” background hidden – fearful of being used for her wealth or prestige. Because of a man who had used Tori in the past, she had a difficult time trusting anyone. Assuming everyone would do the same thing given the chance.
Though their situations appeared to be very different, they both needed to learn how to trust others and more importantly, to trust God. Unbound by Grace explores the way we sometimes project our past hurts onto others, judging them for things they never did.
The author didn’t pull her punches and did a great job in showing what it looks like to live out your faith in hard times. And while I cringed at Derek’s street lingo, it was necessary and realistic. It was just a part of who he was.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. Though it was obvious many of the characters were from a previous story, I wasn’t lost from not having read Grace in the Flames. I am interested in that one and will likely be picking up a copy soon.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
When the past holds the future captive, there is only ONE chain breaker…
My rating is 4.5 stars
Derek was a new creation. He had been saved out of a life of sin. He was white as snow. And yet, because of his past, he struggled. A lot. He felt that if people knew, they would treat him like an outcast. It was hard enough for him to find people to trust him with a job!
Tori had almost the opposite problem. She kept her “privileged” background hidden – fearful of being used for her wealth or prestige. Because of a man who had used Tori in the past, she had a difficult time trusting anyone. Assuming everyone would do the same thing given the chance.
Though their situations appeared to be very different, they both needed to learn how to trust others and more importantly, to trust God. Unbound by Grace explores the way we sometimes project our past hurts onto others, judging them for things they never did.
The author didn’t pull her punches and did a great job in showing what it looks like to live out your faith in hard times. And while I cringed at Derek’s street lingo, it was necessary and realistic. It was just a part of who he was.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. Though it was obvious many of the characters were from a previous story, I wasn’t lost from not having read Grace in the Flames. I am interested in that one and will likely be picking up a copy soon.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
September 23, 2018
When you put two characters together that have a past they don't want to share with others, you are bound to have a good story. But what makes this novella pack a big punch with me is the theme. When your past is holding you hostage, there is only one way to break the chains and move forward - with the Lord. The author represented this theme beautifully throughout the story, and having a past that I am not easily able to talk about, I found myself easily relating to the characters, Tori in particular. She didn't want people finding out about her family because of their social status. Mine was much the same, except in the opposite direction. But what Tori's character needed to learn, as do we, is that your family doesn't define you. Yes, it helps mold you into the person you are today, but you are your own person, a creation in Christ.
Yeah, this story got a little personal in spots for me. I think the average reader has something in their past that they are uncomfortable with. I mean, we're only human after all. So to see not one, but two characters have to overcome their issues and move forward with help from the Lord was a joy to read. Being a novella, it's definitely a quick read and did leave me wanting a little bit more, but this is one story that really spoke to me. This may have been the first story I've read of Massaro, but it certainly won't be the last.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Yeah, this story got a little personal in spots for me. I think the average reader has something in their past that they are uncomfortable with. I mean, we're only human after all. So to see not one, but two characters have to overcome their issues and move forward with help from the Lord was a joy to read. Being a novella, it's definitely a quick read and did leave me wanting a little bit more, but this is one story that really spoke to me. This may have been the first story I've read of Massaro, but it certainly won't be the last.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 29, 2018
Wow. This is the first book I've read by Michelle Massaro and I am hooked! When I saw the advance praise for this book written by Toni Shiloh, I knew it will be a great book. If you have never read Michelle Massaro but have enjoyed Toni Shiloh's books, you will definitely want to pick this one up. If you love contemporary inspirational romance with a good dose of faith and life lessons, this book is for you.
The author weaves an emotionally charged, heart-tugging tale of Tori, the only daughter of wealthy parents struggling to find her identity outside of the money her parents own, and Derek, an ex-con struggling to find a better way for himself and his extended family that still lives in poverty and fear. The emotions are so raw and real, the writing is easy to read, the characters are lovable and easy to relate to, the plot is well-crafted and well-paced with some surprises along the way, and the faith journey that both Tori and Derek travel is inspiring. The dialogue between Tori and Derek is fantastic in its sassiness, tenderness, and vulnerability. The fears that each face can only be unbound and undone by His Grace and the title is so appropriate. Now I need to go and read the previous book, Grace in the Flames, to get the backstory on John and Jenni, Derek and Tori's best friends who have major roles in this story.
I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The author weaves an emotionally charged, heart-tugging tale of Tori, the only daughter of wealthy parents struggling to find her identity outside of the money her parents own, and Derek, an ex-con struggling to find a better way for himself and his extended family that still lives in poverty and fear. The emotions are so raw and real, the writing is easy to read, the characters are lovable and easy to relate to, the plot is well-crafted and well-paced with some surprises along the way, and the faith journey that both Tori and Derek travel is inspiring. The dialogue between Tori and Derek is fantastic in its sassiness, tenderness, and vulnerability. The fears that each face can only be unbound and undone by His Grace and the title is so appropriate. Now I need to go and read the previous book, Grace in the Flames, to get the backstory on John and Jenni, Derek and Tori's best friends who have major roles in this story.
I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
July 27, 2019
Very well written and so realistic of both their lives. I enjoyed the story so much that I read it in one day!
August 19, 2024
Excellent book following up Grace in the Flames (which is a must read). From opposite sides of the track finding love and a common bond through Christ. I enjoyed the banter between the two main characters.
April 30, 2021
Amazing journey!
I loved this story so much I read it in record time! I love the way Michelle captures God’s love.
I loved this story so much I read it in record time! I love the way Michelle captures God’s love.
April 3, 2021
A thought provoking, well written book. It was difficult to put down.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
May 26, 2021
Sometimes when you read the 1st of a series and love it so much, you can be a little disappointed in the 2nd book. Not in this instance! I absolutely love how Michelle has her characters so in love with God that they put Him in charge of their future, even if they make mistakes along the way. We all make mistakes and it's awesome to see how mistakes can make you a better person. I loved this book as much as the 1st one and am now starting on the 3rd. Michelle Massaro is a great writer of Christian fiction. Only someone who intimately knows God can write the things I have read in the 1st two books of this series.
February 5, 2022
The second of the GRACE series that I've read.
It kept me spell-bound, as did the first book "Grace in the Flames."
I can't wait to read the third book in this series. All are very good, exciting reads.
It kept me spell-bound, as did the first book "Grace in the Flames."
I can't wait to read the third book in this series. All are very good, exciting reads.
August 11, 2021
GREAT READ!
Another fabulous job done in thus book Michelle. To God be the glory. Thank you so much. Now I desperately look for your books😁. Worth every minute of the time spent reading your books!❤
Another fabulous job done in thus book Michelle. To God be the glory. Thank you so much. Now I desperately look for your books😁. Worth every minute of the time spent reading your books!❤
October 1, 2018
Unbound by Grace is the first book I’ve read by Michelle Massaro. It is an excellent contemporary Christian romance novella that is well-written and touches on the theme of our pasts and trusting God with His plan for our lives.
Tori Bishop is our main character, and she comes from a wealthy and well-connected family. When the book opens she is between jobs and living with her parents. Tori’s experiences growing up in a rich family makes her wary of people’s intentions. She knows she can never be sure if people like who she is or if they want her connections.
Derek Miller is the opposite of Tori. He grew up in a poor area of town, his mother suffered physical and emotional abuse, and he is an ex-convict. Derek struggles with feeling inadequate because of his upbringing and his time in jail.
Both Tori and Derek are believers when the story begins, and each is struggling with what God is calling them to do. What we want to do is not always what God wants for us, and the disconnect causes us to struggle.
One of the aspects I appreciated the most about Unbound by Grace is that Tori and Derek both struggle with their different upbringings. How each of them were raised and how they lived informs a large part of their current upbringing and it rings true. We are all shaped by our life experiences and Tori and Derek are no different.
Though this book is well-written and Tori and Derek each have distinctive voices, the descriptions and settings are not well-detailed, and it is difficult to get a sense of place in a lot of this novella. The secondary characters are well-developed and have worries and troubles of their own. None of the secondary characters felt shoe-horned in or superfluous to the story.
I give Unbound by Grace 4/5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance and themes of forgiveness and not letting our past experiences cause fear to override our trust in God’s plan.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through CelebrateLit. All opinions are my own.**
Tori Bishop is our main character, and she comes from a wealthy and well-connected family. When the book opens she is between jobs and living with her parents. Tori’s experiences growing up in a rich family makes her wary of people’s intentions. She knows she can never be sure if people like who she is or if they want her connections.
Derek Miller is the opposite of Tori. He grew up in a poor area of town, his mother suffered physical and emotional abuse, and he is an ex-convict. Derek struggles with feeling inadequate because of his upbringing and his time in jail.
Both Tori and Derek are believers when the story begins, and each is struggling with what God is calling them to do. What we want to do is not always what God wants for us, and the disconnect causes us to struggle.
One of the aspects I appreciated the most about Unbound by Grace is that Tori and Derek both struggle with their different upbringings. How each of them were raised and how they lived informs a large part of their current upbringing and it rings true. We are all shaped by our life experiences and Tori and Derek are no different.
Though this book is well-written and Tori and Derek each have distinctive voices, the descriptions and settings are not well-detailed, and it is difficult to get a sense of place in a lot of this novella. The secondary characters are well-developed and have worries and troubles of their own. None of the secondary characters felt shoe-horned in or superfluous to the story.
I give Unbound by Grace 4/5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance and themes of forgiveness and not letting our past experiences cause fear to override our trust in God’s plan.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through CelebrateLit. All opinions are my own.**
October 2, 2018
really enjoyed the story and thought the characters were easy to relate to. Tori comes from money and has found it hard to trust people. She never knows if they like her for herself or because she has money. I can understand why she doesn't let a lot of people into her life. The author does an excellent job of making the characters come alive with a story that captures true emotions. Tori has a good heart but I think she has let her wealth overshadow who she really is. It is refreshing to see how much she listens to God, but I could feel her struggle at times . I loved reading how vulnerable she can be and how much she wanted to be accepted.
Derek was definitely my favorite character. He has had a hard upbringing and has made poor decisions. The great news is that God gives second chances. Derek is trying so hard to make a better life for himself but he still finds that not everyone believes in him. I liked how he didn't back down from doing what was right. It was hard to read how judgmental Tori became when an incident occurs that strains their relationship.
The story is a lesson in trust and reaches into your soul to understand how grace is around us. Tori and Derek may come from different backgrounds, but they each share a common struggle. Will Tori be able to accept Derek after she finds out about his past? Can Derek forgive Tori when she says unkind things to him that hurt him to the core? This is one book that you don't want to miss out on.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Derek was definitely my favorite character. He has had a hard upbringing and has made poor decisions. The great news is that God gives second chances. Derek is trying so hard to make a better life for himself but he still finds that not everyone believes in him. I liked how he didn't back down from doing what was right. It was hard to read how judgmental Tori became when an incident occurs that strains their relationship.
The story is a lesson in trust and reaches into your soul to understand how grace is around us. Tori and Derek may come from different backgrounds, but they each share a common struggle. Will Tori be able to accept Derek after she finds out about his past? Can Derek forgive Tori when she says unkind things to him that hurt him to the core? This is one book that you don't want to miss out on.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
September 28, 2018
Unbound by Grace, by Michelle Massaro, is truly a special book! While it is certainly an entertaining reading experience, this novella is also genuinely moving and utterly compelling. The surprisingly intricate plot is well-paced and thoroughly appealing from beginning to end. Though it is a quick read, it is well-written and deeply meaningful as it grapples with profound themes including forgiveness, second chances, trust, and faith.
The characters are incredibly well-developed for a novella. They are authentic and vulnerable as they struggle to overcome their insecurities and fears while also clinging to their hopes and dreams. The characters are believable and their struggles are truly thought-provoking. As a writer, Ms. Massaro is very talented at building tension between the characters, which makes the story real, satisfying, and incredibly intriguing.
Unbound by Grace is one of the best novellas I have read in quite some time. Relevant and realistic, this book challenged me to think more carefully about my own assumptions regarding grace, forgiveness, second chances, and redemption. More than simply a pleasure to read, this book is an experience to ponder and savor. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I received a copy of this novella through the author and Celebrate Lit. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
The characters are incredibly well-developed for a novella. They are authentic and vulnerable as they struggle to overcome their insecurities and fears while also clinging to their hopes and dreams. The characters are believable and their struggles are truly thought-provoking. As a writer, Ms. Massaro is very talented at building tension between the characters, which makes the story real, satisfying, and incredibly intriguing.
Unbound by Grace is one of the best novellas I have read in quite some time. Relevant and realistic, this book challenged me to think more carefully about my own assumptions regarding grace, forgiveness, second chances, and redemption. More than simply a pleasure to read, this book is an experience to ponder and savor. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*I received a copy of this novella through the author and Celebrate Lit. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
October 3, 2018
"Unbound by Grace" by Michelle Massaro is a clean love story. The two main characters, Tori and Derek both have secrets they don't want the other one to found out, as well as having different backgrounds.
They both have to learn that their preconceived thoughts aren't want God wants.
"Unbound by Grace" is Derek's story of a second chance and Tori's story of learning to accept what God has given her and not to worry about if someone likes her because of her money.
There were some scenes and a few words where I cringed when I read them, (not that all readers are as finicky as me) because they just seem not to belong in a Christian read. Even, with me saying what I just said, the book is a clean read and a wonderful story and yes, I recommend the book. The words that made me cringed were words that were said by a character who was an unbeliever.
Tori and Derek were minor characters in the book, "Grace in the Flames", so of course I had to add it to my to be read list.
I say " Unbound by Grace" by Michelle Massaro is a wonderful story to read and be reminded that love is still alive and well in the fiction world. Because, we all know that there is a little bit of real life in fiction.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
They both have to learn that their preconceived thoughts aren't want God wants.
"Unbound by Grace" is Derek's story of a second chance and Tori's story of learning to accept what God has given her and not to worry about if someone likes her because of her money.
There were some scenes and a few words where I cringed when I read them, (not that all readers are as finicky as me) because they just seem not to belong in a Christian read. Even, with me saying what I just said, the book is a clean read and a wonderful story and yes, I recommend the book. The words that made me cringed were words that were said by a character who was an unbeliever.
Tori and Derek were minor characters in the book, "Grace in the Flames", so of course I had to add it to my to be read list.
I say " Unbound by Grace" by Michelle Massaro is a wonderful story to read and be reminded that love is still alive and well in the fiction world. Because, we all know that there is a little bit of real life in fiction.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
September 28, 2018
This was a great novella and a first one for me from this author. I enjoyed the story of how do we heal and forgive ourselves for secrets and a past that maybe we are not proud of? It was hitting close to home in some ways, as it is hard to accept your secret and share it.
Tori and Derek couldn’t be more different if we were to ask them to. She has a life that could stay comfortable with little work, Derek has worked to come out of the darkness of living in a struggling life. He is very in tune with his faith, while Tori is growing into her faith more. They have banter, they have their hearts locked but through this story we see banter and sarcasm becoming meaningful conversations, and we see their hearts begin to release their locks. They work hard on a mission for a safe home of sorts for women and children, during this not only are they changing but the reader grows with them.
I think this was a beautiful story, and I love the multicultural addition to this story. It is a modern tale, but one with ancient ties with how people have struggled with how to be accepted for who they truly are including one’s past. I would certainly read more from this author and am looking forward to more books from her.
September 25, 2018
‘Opposites attract’ always makes for an interesting story, and characters don’t come much more opposite than Derek and Tori. Black/white, poor/rich, privileged/ex-con. And yet this story shows that, at our core, we’re all the same. We have the same insecurities regardless of why they're there, the same desire to be accepted for who we are, and the same Lord who will guide us if we let Him.
At the beginning of this novel, it’s not just their respective pasts that are troubling Derek and Tori; it’s knowing what to do with their futures. I enjoyed each step of their journey as they finally found the freedom to embrace who they are in Christ, particularly when their banter and sass came to the fore. And there were a few unexpected developments in the second half of the novel too!
It may only be a novella, but there’s a lot of heart in this story.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
At the beginning of this novel, it’s not just their respective pasts that are troubling Derek and Tori; it’s knowing what to do with their futures. I enjoyed each step of their journey as they finally found the freedom to embrace who they are in Christ, particularly when their banter and sass came to the fore. And there were a few unexpected developments in the second half of the novel too!
It may only be a novella, but there’s a lot of heart in this story.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 2, 2018
Tori is a rich girl who is suspicious of everyone because of her past. Derek is a reformed criminal who found Jesus while in prison, but who is still haunted by ghosts of his past. When they have to spend time with each other because of their best friends wedding, sparks fly, but will the secrets of their past keep them apart.
This story is the second in a series, I enjoyed this one so much that I went and bought the first one, Grace in the Flames so that I could read more of the story! This is a great story that illustrates that just because you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, life is not always perfect and your past doesn’t just go away. Both characters face realistic struggles and fear while seeking acceptance for who they are, and not letting their past define them. The author, Michelle Massaro has done a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life. I hope we will get more glimpses of them in future novels.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way shaped my opinion and all opinions are my own.
This story is the second in a series, I enjoyed this one so much that I went and bought the first one, Grace in the Flames so that I could read more of the story! This is a great story that illustrates that just because you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, life is not always perfect and your past doesn’t just go away. Both characters face realistic struggles and fear while seeking acceptance for who they are, and not letting their past define them. The author, Michelle Massaro has done a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life. I hope we will get more glimpses of them in future novels.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way shaped my opinion and all opinions are my own.
September 30, 2018
Unbound By Grace is a contemporary Christian novella by author Michelle Massaro and it's my introduction to this author.
Tori Bishop is the female protagonist from a wealthy family. She didn't want her friends to know of her wealthy affluence so she tried to hide it. Derek Miller is an ex-con who wants a new life and to keep his past hidden. They both had their own personal prison they wanted freedom from.
I appreciate Derek's response after he learned of Tori's wealth. "It's just stuff, Tori. It doesn't change who you are."
The second half of the novella takes an unexpected turn and adds energy to the plot. I love that scripture is used in the story, but I would fancy it if the author would include the references where the scripture is found.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary fiction.
Disclaimer: I received this ebook complimentary the Publisher and Celebrate Lit, and was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Tori Bishop is the female protagonist from a wealthy family. She didn't want her friends to know of her wealthy affluence so she tried to hide it. Derek Miller is an ex-con who wants a new life and to keep his past hidden. They both had their own personal prison they wanted freedom from.
I appreciate Derek's response after he learned of Tori's wealth. "It's just stuff, Tori. It doesn't change who you are."
The second half of the novella takes an unexpected turn and adds energy to the plot. I love that scripture is used in the story, but I would fancy it if the author would include the references where the scripture is found.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary fiction.
Disclaimer: I received this ebook complimentary the Publisher and Celebrate Lit, and was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 8, 2021
Good
I liked the characters and the emotional struggles they had to overcome, even though I skipped a lot of the romance. Their spiritual growth was uplifting.
I liked the characters and the emotional struggles they had to overcome, even though I skipped a lot of the romance. Their spiritual growth was uplifting.
April 24, 2020
Michelle Massaro is a really talented writer. I thought I had seen it all when I read Grace In The Flames book 1 of her grace series but Unbound By Grace took me to a whole new exciting and beautiful realm.
Tori and Derek were like cat and rat; always throwing barbs and teasing each other mercilessly, but behind all that was each of them chained and held in slavery by something in their past. I loved how the author wove the story of the two of them Christians but still holding onto something in the past and how they both came to the place of total surrender and freedom when they choose to let go and allow God take control.
Tori and Derek's story warmed my heart and brought to mind again that God is the master chain breaker if we surrender all to Him.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Tori and Derek were like cat and rat; always throwing barbs and teasing each other mercilessly, but behind all that was each of them chained and held in slavery by something in their past. I loved how the author wove the story of the two of them Christians but still holding onto something in the past and how they both came to the place of total surrender and freedom when they choose to let go and allow God take control.
Tori and Derek's story warmed my heart and brought to mind again that God is the master chain breaker if we surrender all to Him.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
September 25, 2018
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
Tori and Derek are both believers yet they are deceived by fear and the lies they believe about themselves. I loved reading their banter and the way they came to a more accurate understanding of their polar economic circumstances. Exposing our prejudices is the only way we can rectify them.
Unbound by Grace contains some delightfully swoony kisses and yet, my heart was also challenged and encouraged by the faith thread in the story. This novella is an excellent choice, I highly recommend it and I am patiently anticipating more work from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Tori and Derek are both believers yet they are deceived by fear and the lies they believe about themselves. I loved reading their banter and the way they came to a more accurate understanding of their polar economic circumstances. Exposing our prejudices is the only way we can rectify them.
Unbound by Grace contains some delightfully swoony kisses and yet, my heart was also challenged and encouraged by the faith thread in the story. This novella is an excellent choice, I highly recommend it and I am patiently anticipating more work from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 27, 2018
A comfortably readable story with well-developed characters, clever storyline with a good opportunity for readers to view life from two very different perspectives. This new to me author has done a fine job of creating a cast of characters who share vulnerably and learn many life lessons on their journey of Christian growth. You’ll enjoy this one that pulls you in and carries you comfortably through the story as it unfolds without cliché or pretense. I heartily recommend this lovely read!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
September 29, 2018
Unbound by grace
Derek has changed so much after becoming an Christian. He grew up poor and his family really had a hard time and still are. Tori is from an well to do family. With Derek and Tori being from different backgrounds can they be good for each other. They met through mutual friends that getting married. Loved all the events they were in. Very good entertainment while playing golf.
Love how Derek is so generous and just wants to do more of God’s work. He is such an inspiration. So cute that he had a name for his car. I did enjoy the story.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review.
Derek has changed so much after becoming an Christian. He grew up poor and his family really had a hard time and still are. Tori is from an well to do family. With Derek and Tori being from different backgrounds can they be good for each other. They met through mutual friends that getting married. Loved all the events they were in. Very good entertainment while playing golf.
Love how Derek is so generous and just wants to do more of God’s work. He is such an inspiration. So cute that he had a name for his car. I did enjoy the story.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review.
February 22, 2018
I had read Grace in the Flames by Michelle Massaro and was excited to read this novella Unbound by Grace that continues the story with the characters of Tori and Derek. They come from vastly different backgrounds and yet both are struggling to find God's grace in each of their situations. The story is well written and takes these characters full circle in finding each other but more importantly in finding the grace given by God.
I received a review coy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
I received a review coy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
February 24, 2018
I loved the author's other two books, so was excited to receive a pre-release copy of this novella. It continues the story of Tori and Derek, characters from Grace in the Flames. I was immediately engaged with the storytelling and could relate to both of their vastly different backgrounds and challenges. Unbound by Grace offers hope to those who have had messy lives, and it challenges those with not-so-messy lives to view things through the eyes of grace and forgiveness. I did not want to put it down once I started.
February 28, 2018
Unbound by Grace by Michelle Massaro
This is 2nd in what I’ll call Michelle’s Grace series. This story still has John and Jenni in parts, but the focus is on Derek and Tori. Both struggle with acceptance of their life and growing through disappointments/fears from the past. Join them on their journey to new acceptance by the Grace of God. A great story, with enough plot twists to keep you turning pages to find out what is going to happen on their journey.
I received a review copy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
This is 2nd in what I’ll call Michelle’s Grace series. This story still has John and Jenni in parts, but the focus is on Derek and Tori. Both struggle with acceptance of their life and growing through disappointments/fears from the past. Join them on their journey to new acceptance by the Grace of God. A great story, with enough plot twists to keep you turning pages to find out what is going to happen on their journey.
I received a review copy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
February 27, 2018
I loved Grace in the Flames and it was lovely to continue the story with Tori and Derek. They come from totally different backgrounds, but both are struggling with not letting something from their past define their future. It was encouraging to see them work through their problems, and with God's grace get together in the end.
A wonderful story, I'm looking forward to more books by the author.
I received a review copy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
A wonderful story, I'm looking forward to more books by the author.
I received a review copy from Orange Grove Press. All opinions are my own.
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