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When Time Forgets #1
Necessary Heartbreak: Book One of the When Time Forgets Trilogy
Do you believe that time heals all wounds?Michael Stewart doesn't. Thirteen years later, he's still struggling with the demands of being a single father. His life revolves around his daughter Elizabeth, a precocious girl who's growing up much too fast. Michael is all too aware of time lost, and time still slipping away.But fate, or perhaps something more divine, has other plans for Michael. When he and Lizzie stumble upon a root-cellar door in the floor of an old church, they discover that it's actually a tunnel leading back in time to first century Jerusalem during the tumultuous last week of Christ's life. With the help of Leah, a newfound friend, they try desperately to escape, avoiding menacing soldiers at every turn, including one determined to make Elizabeth his own. Trapped in the past -- both literally and figuratively -- Michael comes face to face with some of his most limiting beliefs, and realizes he must open himself up to the possibility of a deeper faith in God, people, himself, and love before he can find his way home.Michael Sullivan is the author of several books for young readers. He lives on Long Island with his wife and two daughters.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2008
17 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
Michael John Sullivan
42 books138 followersMichael John Sullivan Michael John Sullivan graduated with a communications degree and a promising future in the field of journalism after working for the official school paper the previous two years. Six months later, he found himself washing his hair in a toilet at the same university as he prepared for a job interview.
Sullivan was homeless at the age of 23 after first watching his mother -- his protector in a dysfunctional family -- die from cancer. A year later his father asked him to leave. Riding a New York City subway train at night, his only companion was a green plastic bag of belongings. During these bleak days he began writing his most reflective and emotional childhood and adult memories now featured in two of his novels.
On a bitterly cold New Year's Eve that year, Sullivan intentionally hid under a pew in the back of a church to stay warm for the night. After the doors were locked, he lay near a makeshift manger, writing and talking to the baby Jesus. It was a cathartic experience, one that would continue to resonate with him years later.
He was rescued off the train by an aunt and uncle.
After spending much of the past two decades raising their daughters while working at home, Sullivan returned to his notes in 2007 and began writing Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness. It was published by Simon & Schuster's Gallery Books imprint in April 2010. The Library Journal named Necessary Heartbreak as one of the year's best in Christian fiction for 2010. He recently finished the sequel, Everybody's Daughter, featuring more memories from his young adult life, including the day he walked to Forest Park as he contemplated taking his own life. Only the strains of a song prevented him from doing the unthinkable.
Sullivan lives with his family in New York. He is a board member for the Long Island Coalition of the Homeless.
Published works
Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness.
Sullivan was homeless at the age of 23 after first watching his mother -- his protector in a dysfunctional family -- die from cancer. A year later his father asked him to leave. Riding a New York City subway train at night, his only companion was a green plastic bag of belongings. During these bleak days he began writing his most reflective and emotional childhood and adult memories now featured in two of his novels.
On a bitterly cold New Year's Eve that year, Sullivan intentionally hid under a pew in the back of a church to stay warm for the night. After the doors were locked, he lay near a makeshift manger, writing and talking to the baby Jesus. It was a cathartic experience, one that would continue to resonate with him years later.
He was rescued off the train by an aunt and uncle.
After spending much of the past two decades raising their daughters while working at home, Sullivan returned to his notes in 2007 and began writing Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness. It was published by Simon & Schuster's Gallery Books imprint in April 2010. The Library Journal named Necessary Heartbreak as one of the year's best in Christian fiction for 2010. He recently finished the sequel, Everybody's Daughter, featuring more memories from his young adult life, including the day he walked to Forest Park as he contemplated taking his own life. Only the strains of a song prevented him from doing the unthinkable.
Sullivan lives with his family in New York. He is a board member for the Long Island Coalition of the Homeless.
Published works
Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness.
Trivia
So You Think You're a New Yorker (ISBN 978-1557700513)
Children's Sports Bibliographies
The New York Rangers Hockey Team (Great Sports Teams) (ISBN 978-0766010239)
Top 10 Baseball Pitchers (ISBN 0894905201)
Sports Great Shaquille O'Neal (Sports Great Books) (ISBN 978-0766010031)
Mark Messier: Star Center (Sports Reports) (ISBN 978-0894908019)
Sports Great Barry Bonds (Sports Great Books) (ISBN 978-0894905957)
Chris Mullin: Star Forward (Sport Reports) (ISBN 978-0894904868)
Sports Great Darryl Strawberry (Sports Great Books) (ISBN 978-0894902918)
Children's Action Series
Ultimate Adventures New Digidestined, Vol. 2 (ISBN 978-0061072062)
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July 9, 2013
Uniquely Inspiring, Adventurous Thriller
I had given up on Christian fiction, but Necessary Heartbreak changed my mind by speaking to my heart. I'm a die-hard romantic and had deducted from the few Christian fiction books I have read that most of them seemed to cut the passion off in a human aspect and become a great bore while over-emphasizing religion. Not this book!
Necessary Heartbreak is transcendent because the story is primarily an adventure, discovery, and heart-wrenching tale emphasizing Michael Stewart's faith journey as he travels back in time. It is faith based and love driven. A courageous single Father who finds strength through love despite his wavering faith in God and humanity. With the vivid setting taking a reader back to Jerusalem, beautiful relationships, and suspense, this page-turner is a must read for someone looking for an original and inspiring story.
I was intrigued with the Father/Daughter relationship. Michael struggled with, but willingly carried the heavy burden of juggling work, family, and faith as a single Dad. Like many single parents, he didn't have much of a choice but to work and shove all other matters aside for survivals sake. At times he felt guilty for doing so. He somehow managed to keep a close bond with his Daughter through their hardship. The love is apparent, had me smiling, and was very endearing.
It is when Michael is torn from his Daughter Elizabeth by a brutal Roman soldier that my heart squeezed with trepidation. In that moment, there is a realization that he is forced to trust a complete stranger with the safe keeping of his most precious treasure: His daughter.
The book smoothly and comfortably alternates scenes from Michael's experiences in Long Island to the adventure in Jerusalem. The reader is introduced to Michael while he is homeless on the E train, a look into the raw emotion of hopelessness that will have them rooting for justice for him in that situation. There are memories of his late Wife and the time they shared that will entrance and romance the heart. His childhood is another reminder of the extent of loss and grief he had to bear.It accentuates his great love for family and a crossroads in his faith.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to read a page-turning tale of faith, love, and adventure. It will not disappoint!
When you read this book be prepared to smile, be intrigued, and have a tissue handy. It will make you thankful for each day, each breath, and each moment. A realization that can only be reached on a higher level of understanding that a relationship with God begins in the heart and from the heart. In addition to his unending mercy, grace, and love, the greatest gift God has given us is time.
Everybody's Daughter
I had given up on Christian fiction, but Necessary Heartbreak changed my mind by speaking to my heart. I'm a die-hard romantic and had deducted from the few Christian fiction books I have read that most of them seemed to cut the passion off in a human aspect and become a great bore while over-emphasizing religion. Not this book!
Necessary Heartbreak is transcendent because the story is primarily an adventure, discovery, and heart-wrenching tale emphasizing Michael Stewart's faith journey as he travels back in time. It is faith based and love driven. A courageous single Father who finds strength through love despite his wavering faith in God and humanity. With the vivid setting taking a reader back to Jerusalem, beautiful relationships, and suspense, this page-turner is a must read for someone looking for an original and inspiring story.
I was intrigued with the Father/Daughter relationship. Michael struggled with, but willingly carried the heavy burden of juggling work, family, and faith as a single Dad. Like many single parents, he didn't have much of a choice but to work and shove all other matters aside for survivals sake. At times he felt guilty for doing so. He somehow managed to keep a close bond with his Daughter through their hardship. The love is apparent, had me smiling, and was very endearing.
It is when Michael is torn from his Daughter Elizabeth by a brutal Roman soldier that my heart squeezed with trepidation. In that moment, there is a realization that he is forced to trust a complete stranger with the safe keeping of his most precious treasure: His daughter.
The book smoothly and comfortably alternates scenes from Michael's experiences in Long Island to the adventure in Jerusalem. The reader is introduced to Michael while he is homeless on the E train, a look into the raw emotion of hopelessness that will have them rooting for justice for him in that situation. There are memories of his late Wife and the time they shared that will entrance and romance the heart. His childhood is another reminder of the extent of loss and grief he had to bear.It accentuates his great love for family and a crossroads in his faith.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to read a page-turning tale of faith, love, and adventure. It will not disappoint!
When you read this book be prepared to smile, be intrigued, and have a tissue handy. It will make you thankful for each day, each breath, and each moment. A realization that can only be reached on a higher level of understanding that a relationship with God begins in the heart and from the heart. In addition to his unending mercy, grace, and love, the greatest gift God has given us is time.
Everybody's Daughter
November 20, 2008
On a warm May night in 2007, 15 years of frustration ended. I arose with purpose, filled with ideas on how to finally complete my novel which had gathered dusty bytes on my computer for way too long. I had never been so excited about the concept of writing. I shook my normally hard-to-wake wife Debbie out of her sleep and shared my thoughts. When she got excited about the plot, I knew then I had something special.
Based upon some emotional childhood experiences, I had been pondering two questions: If we had an opportunity to cleanse our sins, how would we go about achieving that, and who would we seek to help us?
As I began to work on the first draft, the creative process became therapeutic. It gave me an opportunity to understand why my body and mind were experiencing certain emotions as an adult and how the joys and pains of childhood transformed me into the person I am today.
When you write, it’s rare that it’s an absolutely joyful experience. But from the first word I wrote in my notebook to the last correction made on the proofs, Necessary Heartbreak enabled me to believe in the goodness of the human character.
Based upon some emotional childhood experiences, I had been pondering two questions: If we had an opportunity to cleanse our sins, how would we go about achieving that, and who would we seek to help us?
As I began to work on the first draft, the creative process became therapeutic. It gave me an opportunity to understand why my body and mind were experiencing certain emotions as an adult and how the joys and pains of childhood transformed me into the person I am today.
When you write, it’s rare that it’s an absolutely joyful experience. But from the first word I wrote in my notebook to the last correction made on the proofs, Necessary Heartbreak enabled me to believe in the goodness of the human character.
July 16, 2024
There are stories that authors feel called to write and (self) publish because they are near and dear to the writer's heart.
July 30, 2011
Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan published by Gallery Books, copyright 2010 is a novel you can't miss. I couldn't put it down once I started reading, since I was hooked from the first chapter. The main characters are a single dad and his daughter, Michael and Elizabeth. Journey with them through life's obstacle course in the world, as we know it today, as well as through first-century Jerusalem. Michael losses two important women in his life, loves of his life, his mother and his wife. Left with his daughter to raise, he strives to do the best he can and vows never to leave her or allow anyone to hurt her. But, in Jerusalem, Roman soldiers threaten to overpower him, and one wants Elizabeth for his wife. She's only 14, not even allowed to kiss, so Michael is determined not to let this solider have his way with his daughter, but can he save her?
While helping the local church with food pantry items, Elizabeth finds a trap door and explores while Michael goes back upstairs for more items. He returns and follows his daughter through the hole in the basement floor to a world that's only existed in the pages of the Bible. After the loss of his mother and living on New York streets homeless, his faith is shaken, but he soon discovers Jesus is real when Jesus looks at him and says, "Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God's gift of time truly is." He asks Michael if he's there to lift his burden, or to help Jesus with his. Then, Jesus informs him that he shouldn't look too far, since his daughter can lift his burden.
Without the help of a beautiful green-eyed lady in Jerusalem, Leah, Michael and his daughter would have been easy prey for the Roman soldiers, but will her help be enough to save Elizabeth from marrying an unknown Roman soldier, or will she be forced to become his wife to save herself and her father?
A novel that truly mixes life's problems of today and blends them with history, this book will enrich your life and soul. It's a pleasurable read I started late on a Friday evening and completed on the following Sunday. And, it deciphers today's teens well, always in a hurry with earbuds tucked in their ears. Parents of today compete with Ipods, cell phones, and electronics for attention. But, Michael and Elizabeth are whisked back in time and history where no electronic gadgets can aid their rescue, and Liz, as she's called by her friends, has to learn to deal with life on a very humble level without her cell phone. She's grateful for her father and never wants him to leave her side. Will their world ever return to normal? If it does, will Leah be a part of it, or will they be forced to leave her to the Roman soldiers? Will heartbreak be necessary for all of them to survive?
Back Cover Material: An extraordinary journey back in time shows a struggling single dad that the faith he's lost is still alive--and stronger than ever . . . . Michael Stewart has weathered his share of hardships: a troubled childhood, the loss of his mother, even the degradation of living on the city streets. Now, he's raising his teenaged daughter, Elizabeth, on his own and doing the best he can at work and at home. But he's turned his back on his faith--that is, until the morning Michael and Elizabeth volunteer for a food pantry at their local church. While storing boxes in the basement, they step through a mysterious door. . . and find themselves in first-century Jerusalem during the tumultuous last week of Jesus Christ's life. It is a dangerous and violent place, where doing what your heart tells you is right can get you imprisoned--or worse--and they are thankful to take refuge with a kind widow. But when they come face-to-face with Judas Iscariot and the condemned Christ himself, Michael realizes that before they can escape Jerusalem, he must experience history's most necessary and shattering heartbreak--and that pain and loss must happen if Michael is to be set free: to live, love, and reclaim the blessings he has in the present day.
While helping the local church with food pantry items, Elizabeth finds a trap door and explores while Michael goes back upstairs for more items. He returns and follows his daughter through the hole in the basement floor to a world that's only existed in the pages of the Bible. After the loss of his mother and living on New York streets homeless, his faith is shaken, but he soon discovers Jesus is real when Jesus looks at him and says, "Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God's gift of time truly is." He asks Michael if he's there to lift his burden, or to help Jesus with his. Then, Jesus informs him that he shouldn't look too far, since his daughter can lift his burden.
Without the help of a beautiful green-eyed lady in Jerusalem, Leah, Michael and his daughter would have been easy prey for the Roman soldiers, but will her help be enough to save Elizabeth from marrying an unknown Roman soldier, or will she be forced to become his wife to save herself and her father?
A novel that truly mixes life's problems of today and blends them with history, this book will enrich your life and soul. It's a pleasurable read I started late on a Friday evening and completed on the following Sunday. And, it deciphers today's teens well, always in a hurry with earbuds tucked in their ears. Parents of today compete with Ipods, cell phones, and electronics for attention. But, Michael and Elizabeth are whisked back in time and history where no electronic gadgets can aid their rescue, and Liz, as she's called by her friends, has to learn to deal with life on a very humble level without her cell phone. She's grateful for her father and never wants him to leave her side. Will their world ever return to normal? If it does, will Leah be a part of it, or will they be forced to leave her to the Roman soldiers? Will heartbreak be necessary for all of them to survive?
Back Cover Material: An extraordinary journey back in time shows a struggling single dad that the faith he's lost is still alive--and stronger than ever . . . . Michael Stewart has weathered his share of hardships: a troubled childhood, the loss of his mother, even the degradation of living on the city streets. Now, he's raising his teenaged daughter, Elizabeth, on his own and doing the best he can at work and at home. But he's turned his back on his faith--that is, until the morning Michael and Elizabeth volunteer for a food pantry at their local church. While storing boxes in the basement, they step through a mysterious door. . . and find themselves in first-century Jerusalem during the tumultuous last week of Jesus Christ's life. It is a dangerous and violent place, where doing what your heart tells you is right can get you imprisoned--or worse--and they are thankful to take refuge with a kind widow. But when they come face-to-face with Judas Iscariot and the condemned Christ himself, Michael realizes that before they can escape Jerusalem, he must experience history's most necessary and shattering heartbreak--and that pain and loss must happen if Michael is to be set free: to live, love, and reclaim the blessings he has in the present day.
May 31, 2012
What would you do if you found yourself transported completely by accident into the Biblical past, back to the time of Jesus' ministry just before the crucifixion? Well that is exactly what happens to Michael Stewart and his daughter, Elizabeth.
Having many struggles early on in his life, Michael now finds himself raising his daughter, Elizabeth on his own, having lost his wife, Vicki. Now Michael has turned his back on his faith in God and in a surprising turn of events, while helping out a food drive at the local church, Elizabeth disappears into the basement behind an ancient door in the floor. When Michael attempts to go after her, they find themselves transported into first-century Jerusalem during the last week of Jesus Christ's life.
Not exactly being dressed in local attire and coming to the aid of a man being severely beaten by Roman soldiers, Michael is arrested for interfering. He soon finds out the man he attempted to rescue was Barabbas, accused of murdering a Roman soldier. Now trapped within an ancient prison, all Michael wants to do is find Elizabeth and get back to their real home. Elizabeth finds herself the center of unwanted attention when one of the Roman soldiers, Marcus, sees a possible wife in finding her. Now she must remain hidden while the Passover feast begins and the city is swarming with soldiers and citizens. She finds shelter and security being taken in by a local woman named Leah, who knows Michael already. How is that possible if they just entered Jerusalem today?
When Michael is released from prison, he thinks it's because he's befriended by Marcus, only he is using Michael as bait to find Elizabeth. When Michael attempts to find Elizabeth in the busy city, he comes face to face with Jesus Christ as he is entering the city on Palm Sunday. Will Michael and Elizabeth ever find their way back home, or does God have bigger plans by transporting Michael back in the past to find his love for Christ again?
In the novel, Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan, the reader is given a great look into the historical world of ancient Jerusalem and how we might view this time in history through the eyes of Michael and Elizabeth. This is Michael Sullivan's debut novel and I was fortunate enough to read the sequel to this one first, Everybody's Daughter and immediately found the connection between the two stories. This is a fantastic series for anyone who loves Bible history and who would love to go back in time without the fear of being really trapped there like our characters from the story. I love how both characters view this opportunity to meet Jesus in this once in a lifetime moment.
I received this book compliments of Michael J. Sullivan for my honest review and once again have to applaud his talents as a writer. Even though this is his debut novel, it was well thought out and the story line is amazing. It truly holds the readers attention throughout and wonder just what the interactions will be during their trip into the past. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and if you love science fiction blended with a bit of history with a Christian twist, then this is the perfect book for you.
Having many struggles early on in his life, Michael now finds himself raising his daughter, Elizabeth on his own, having lost his wife, Vicki. Now Michael has turned his back on his faith in God and in a surprising turn of events, while helping out a food drive at the local church, Elizabeth disappears into the basement behind an ancient door in the floor. When Michael attempts to go after her, they find themselves transported into first-century Jerusalem during the last week of Jesus Christ's life.
Not exactly being dressed in local attire and coming to the aid of a man being severely beaten by Roman soldiers, Michael is arrested for interfering. He soon finds out the man he attempted to rescue was Barabbas, accused of murdering a Roman soldier. Now trapped within an ancient prison, all Michael wants to do is find Elizabeth and get back to their real home. Elizabeth finds herself the center of unwanted attention when one of the Roman soldiers, Marcus, sees a possible wife in finding her. Now she must remain hidden while the Passover feast begins and the city is swarming with soldiers and citizens. She finds shelter and security being taken in by a local woman named Leah, who knows Michael already. How is that possible if they just entered Jerusalem today?
When Michael is released from prison, he thinks it's because he's befriended by Marcus, only he is using Michael as bait to find Elizabeth. When Michael attempts to find Elizabeth in the busy city, he comes face to face with Jesus Christ as he is entering the city on Palm Sunday. Will Michael and Elizabeth ever find their way back home, or does God have bigger plans by transporting Michael back in the past to find his love for Christ again?
In the novel, Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan, the reader is given a great look into the historical world of ancient Jerusalem and how we might view this time in history through the eyes of Michael and Elizabeth. This is Michael Sullivan's debut novel and I was fortunate enough to read the sequel to this one first, Everybody's Daughter and immediately found the connection between the two stories. This is a fantastic series for anyone who loves Bible history and who would love to go back in time without the fear of being really trapped there like our characters from the story. I love how both characters view this opportunity to meet Jesus in this once in a lifetime moment.
I received this book compliments of Michael J. Sullivan for my honest review and once again have to applaud his talents as a writer. Even though this is his debut novel, it was well thought out and the story line is amazing. It truly holds the readers attention throughout and wonder just what the interactions will be during their trip into the past. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and if you love science fiction blended with a bit of history with a Christian twist, then this is the perfect book for you.
June 2, 2013
Necessary Heartbreak will take you on a journey of faith and of the heart.
Michael Stewart has had his share of struggles. He had a troubled childhood, and then he lost his mother. Then, his father and he got into an argument and Michael found himself on the street. No place to go, no place to sleep.
Over time, Michael met and fell in love with Vicki. Finally, things were going right for Michael. They got married, and planned a family until tragedy took Vicki away. Now, Michael struggles to financially and he's struggled for years raising Elizabeth on his own. Michael's faith is gone. Or is it?
When he and Elizabeth go to a local church to help with donations, the find themselves loading boxes into the basement. Curious, Elizabeth opens a trap door in the basement floor. Afraid of losing his daughter, Michael follows her into the dark and dank tunnels and where they end up is astonishing.
The other side of the tunnel is a grate and through the grate they see soldiers in dusty sandals, long flowing robes. They are in Jerusalem and although they are confused, they try to help someone being beaten. A soldier set his eye upon Elizabeth and wants to claim her as his wife. Michael will do everything within his power to keep her safe, and he thrusts her into the arms of a woman with kind eyes. Her name is Leah and she helps Michael and Elizabeth to safety.
Through Leah and circumstances, Michael begins to believe again. He never lost his faith, he just lost his path. When a major event occurs, Michael, on his knees shouts at the Lord, and his healing has began. But that is only the beginning as they must find their way back to their own time, and it is Good Friday, the day of Jesus's crucification.
Necessary Heartbreak is phenomenal. The background story of Michael's story unfolds against events in Jerusalem, bringing understanding to his plight. What happens in Jerusalem will leave a track of tears on your cheek as you turn the pages. Hope, Faith, Forgiveness are absolute, and I look forward to the next book in this stunning debut series.
Michael Stewart has had his share of struggles. He had a troubled childhood, and then he lost his mother. Then, his father and he got into an argument and Michael found himself on the street. No place to go, no place to sleep.
Over time, Michael met and fell in love with Vicki. Finally, things were going right for Michael. They got married, and planned a family until tragedy took Vicki away. Now, Michael struggles to financially and he's struggled for years raising Elizabeth on his own. Michael's faith is gone. Or is it?
When he and Elizabeth go to a local church to help with donations, the find themselves loading boxes into the basement. Curious, Elizabeth opens a trap door in the basement floor. Afraid of losing his daughter, Michael follows her into the dark and dank tunnels and where they end up is astonishing.
The other side of the tunnel is a grate and through the grate they see soldiers in dusty sandals, long flowing robes. They are in Jerusalem and although they are confused, they try to help someone being beaten. A soldier set his eye upon Elizabeth and wants to claim her as his wife. Michael will do everything within his power to keep her safe, and he thrusts her into the arms of a woman with kind eyes. Her name is Leah and she helps Michael and Elizabeth to safety.
Through Leah and circumstances, Michael begins to believe again. He never lost his faith, he just lost his path. When a major event occurs, Michael, on his knees shouts at the Lord, and his healing has began. But that is only the beginning as they must find their way back to their own time, and it is Good Friday, the day of Jesus's crucification.
Necessary Heartbreak is phenomenal. The background story of Michael's story unfolds against events in Jerusalem, bringing understanding to his plight. What happens in Jerusalem will leave a track of tears on your cheek as you turn the pages. Hope, Faith, Forgiveness are absolute, and I look forward to the next book in this stunning debut series.
January 10, 2012
From my blog...[return]I quite honestly did not know what to expect when I began reading Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan, although the novel pleasantly surprised me. Michael Stewart is a loving and struggling single father to 14-year-old Elizabeth, a rather typical teen, yet with so many questions about the mother she never got to know. Michael and Elizabeth are helping with the church's volunteer food drive and come across a mysterious trap door in the church's basement. Being curious Elizabeth goes through, and her father, unable to find her, enters himself, only to discover they have somehow been transported to Jerusalem, just prior to the crucifixion of Christ. During their time in Jerusalem, Michael and Elizabeth learn a lot about themselves and each other as well as Leah, the kind woman who took them in and kept them safe. Sullivan tells the narrative alternating between the present and the flashbacks from Michael's troubled past, Elizabeth's desire to make her dad happy, and Leah's losses. Will Michael and Elizabeth be able to find their way home or will they be forever trapped in Jerusalem? At the heart of the novel there are two Catholics who have lost some of their faith staying with a Jewish woman during Passover, which added a lovely dimension to the novel. The novel offers up some interesting questions that a discussion group could dive into, but as a solitary reader I remained ambivalent. I truly enjoyed the character of Leah and wish I would have felt as strongly toward Michael and Elizabeth. Necessary Heartbreak is a short and quick read which delves into some of the deepest issues of what it truly means to love, suffer loss, and to have faith.
July 19, 2012
Author Michael John Sullivan weaves an adventurous tale of intrigue and time travel back to Jerusalem during the volatile week before Jesus Christ's crucifixtion.
The first in a trilogy, Necessary Heartbreak, introduces the reader to father and daughter, Michael and Elizabeth Stewart. The story deals with their stressed relationship which is put to the test when they encounter immediate danger upon their unintended and untimely arrival in the brutally Roman ruled Holy Land.
A Jewish woman named Leah takes them in and risks her life to hide, feed, and clothe the stranded pair while they seek to find and return to the tunnel that will lead them back to the church basement in modern day America.
Truly a story of lost faith restored through forgiveness, the story weaves back through a lifetime of heartache and loss; the death of Michael's beloved wife Vicky at the birth of their baby girl, the death of his mother, and the struggle and humilation of homelessness.
Blending actual history, drama and building tension, the author offers a twist at the end that leaves readers wanting more. The widow Leah reaches hardened and protected places in both the father and daughter's hearts, only to be left behind to suffer possible persecution.
What would the average reader do if the opportunity presented itself to not only speak with Christ, but possibly alter His pre-destiny and sacrifice for all mankind?
An excellent book for book clubs that promises to lead to intense discussions, riviting interpretations, and in-depth soul searching.
The first in a trilogy, Necessary Heartbreak, introduces the reader to father and daughter, Michael and Elizabeth Stewart. The story deals with their stressed relationship which is put to the test when they encounter immediate danger upon their unintended and untimely arrival in the brutally Roman ruled Holy Land.
A Jewish woman named Leah takes them in and risks her life to hide, feed, and clothe the stranded pair while they seek to find and return to the tunnel that will lead them back to the church basement in modern day America.
Truly a story of lost faith restored through forgiveness, the story weaves back through a lifetime of heartache and loss; the death of Michael's beloved wife Vicky at the birth of their baby girl, the death of his mother, and the struggle and humilation of homelessness.
Blending actual history, drama and building tension, the author offers a twist at the end that leaves readers wanting more. The widow Leah reaches hardened and protected places in both the father and daughter's hearts, only to be left behind to suffer possible persecution.
What would the average reader do if the opportunity presented itself to not only speak with Christ, but possibly alter His pre-destiny and sacrifice for all mankind?
An excellent book for book clubs that promises to lead to intense discussions, riviting interpretations, and in-depth soul searching.
May 27, 2012
When I first picked up this novel I didn't know what to expect. I just knew the man behind the book was special :) As I began to read through the pages I was no longer in my current city Jerusalem had swept me away I was walking with the Lord and discovering the history of this land! There is humor, tears, and joy in this first installment honestly I would hate to put it down. I dreamed about it and when I woke up i couldn't wait to pick it back up! Michael is a amazing writer and it shows in this novel. Have a box of tissues and a big imagination ready when you open to the first page, this will be a adventure you will never forget.
May 23, 2009
This book has great potential with an interesting plot, but there is a definite lack of character development. The author came to our book club and gave us a full synopsis of his trilogy and explained that since he was self published, he had to cut out a lot of the character development. His agent is currently shopping his book, so we are hoping he is able to get it published with a publisher so that he can release the full version. The synopses are very intriguing. Our club is also looking forward to attending the release party in NY. :)
September 10, 2012
Michael John Sullivan has a hit with Necessary Heartbreak. After being comfortably grounded in today's reality, we are led on a dangerous journey outside of our time. This writer weaves every detail and every feeling into every scene leaving the reader totally captivated by the story being played out. I'm glad I've already downloaded the second book of the series. I've got a lot invested in these characters now. Bravo Michael. I'm so hooked.
August 23, 2021
Verschrikkelijk! Niet te geloven dat dit een boek is van Michael J. Sullivan. Dit boek is geschreven in 2010, dus gelukkig heeft hij sinds die tijd een hoop bijgeleerd.
June 21, 2022
Good concept
Good concept but not a great read. The characters were just not developed well or believable. The book could have been much better
Good concept but not a great read. The characters were just not developed well or believable. The book could have been much better
April 2, 2011
A single parent, who had suffered hardships throughout his childhood, Michael Stewart is now raising his daughter, Elizabeth, to the best of his ability. To shun potential relationships, he digs out his wedding band.
To fulfill her honor society credits, Elizabeth has to attain a certain number of community-related service points, so Michael is taking her to help out with the food pantry at Our Lady of the Bay Church.
It’s here that Michael and Elizabeth find a sub-basement door while stacking excess food donation boxes in the cluttered basement. Returning with the last boxes, Elizabeth is nowhere to be found. That’s when Michael notices that the sub-basement door, the one he distinctly told her not to open, is lying flat against the floor. It’s at the end of that sub-basement tunnel that we find father and daughter looking through a grate into a time warp of the first century, the week before Jesus’ crucifixion, which they first think is a play.
The cruelty they witness initiates them to push through the grate to rescue a man. Thus, Michael and Elizabeth are transported back into the days of the Roman Empire, filled with all the cruelty, violence, and inhumane treatment of that era. The reality of the circumstances has you imagining yourself getting dusty and dirty right along with the characters, while cautiously keeping out of sight of the Roman officers. The tension and fear are palpable. The descriptions of the locale and customs are fascinating to learn about.
Since the story revolves largely around Michael and Elizabeth trying to re-enter their world again through the grate without getting caught by the Roman soldiers, while also trying to save Jesus from the lies, cruel beatings and death, it’s highly action-packed and dangerous. The romantic tension tempers the dire circumstances Michael and Elizabeth find themselves in.
The flashbacks of the different characters throughout the story helped bring you ‘up-to-speed’ as to what transpired in the lives of each of the characters to-date, presenting several different points of view. Great contrast to the storyline.
The statement, “Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God’s gift of time truly is,” is so poignant in the story, something Michael needs to contemplate personally. Through this statement, the author also gets you thinking on different levels as you comprehend the circumstances, past, present, and even the future, regarding Jesus and your own life. The descriptions of the customs, fear, danger, and harshness of crucifixion help you understand the background of the Scriptures better.
I stepped outside my normal genre, and was pleasantly surprised.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review. No monetary value was exchanged.
To fulfill her honor society credits, Elizabeth has to attain a certain number of community-related service points, so Michael is taking her to help out with the food pantry at Our Lady of the Bay Church.
It’s here that Michael and Elizabeth find a sub-basement door while stacking excess food donation boxes in the cluttered basement. Returning with the last boxes, Elizabeth is nowhere to be found. That’s when Michael notices that the sub-basement door, the one he distinctly told her not to open, is lying flat against the floor. It’s at the end of that sub-basement tunnel that we find father and daughter looking through a grate into a time warp of the first century, the week before Jesus’ crucifixion, which they first think is a play.
The cruelty they witness initiates them to push through the grate to rescue a man. Thus, Michael and Elizabeth are transported back into the days of the Roman Empire, filled with all the cruelty, violence, and inhumane treatment of that era. The reality of the circumstances has you imagining yourself getting dusty and dirty right along with the characters, while cautiously keeping out of sight of the Roman officers. The tension and fear are palpable. The descriptions of the locale and customs are fascinating to learn about.
Since the story revolves largely around Michael and Elizabeth trying to re-enter their world again through the grate without getting caught by the Roman soldiers, while also trying to save Jesus from the lies, cruel beatings and death, it’s highly action-packed and dangerous. The romantic tension tempers the dire circumstances Michael and Elizabeth find themselves in.
The flashbacks of the different characters throughout the story helped bring you ‘up-to-speed’ as to what transpired in the lives of each of the characters to-date, presenting several different points of view. Great contrast to the storyline.
The statement, “Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God’s gift of time truly is,” is so poignant in the story, something Michael needs to contemplate personally. Through this statement, the author also gets you thinking on different levels as you comprehend the circumstances, past, present, and even the future, regarding Jesus and your own life. The descriptions of the customs, fear, danger, and harshness of crucifixion help you understand the background of the Scriptures better.
I stepped outside my normal genre, and was pleasantly surprised.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review. No monetary value was exchanged.
April 20, 2010
I started and restarted this sentence about four times, trying to figure out how to share my thoughts about NECESSARY HEARTBREAK by M.J. Sullivan with you. I’m not one to be short on words, as we all know (and hopefully love) and yet I’m having a hard time coming up with many for this book. Why? That’s a good question.
NECESSARY HEARTBREAK follows a father and daughter as they end up travelling back in time to the last days of Christ before the resurrection. When I originally read the synopsis, I thought it would be an interesting read for me, taking the story of Christ and throwing this new time travelling spin on it. What would it look like if we could travel back in time to witness all the wonders of the world we were curious about?
Sadly, while the synopsis caught my attention, the book couldn’t hold it.
Here’s the confusing part. This is a good book. The story is lovely and will probably be quite moving to many Christians. Who wouldn’t want to go back and witness the last days of Christ, reaffirming their spiritual faith and belief in God? This is a wonderful piece of Christian Fiction that I think will probably find a happy home on the bookshelf of many families.
So why am I having such a hard time reviewing it? I don’t tend to read Christian Fiction. This is simply a matter of me thinking a book would interest me and being mistaken about that. This is not a negative reflection on the story or author as I believe that many other people may find these to be superb. I did like the characters and I think many will love the message behind the book. Mr. Sullivan obviously put a lot of time and effort into creating this book. From an objective standpoint, if there was anything that could have made this book stand out to me a bit more despite the reading preference differences, it would have been the character development. While they were fun to read, it would have been nice to see them have a little more oomph.
I would recommend this book to any fans of Christian Fiction, looking to add a nice story to their collection.
NECESSARY HEARTBREAK follows a father and daughter as they end up travelling back in time to the last days of Christ before the resurrection. When I originally read the synopsis, I thought it would be an interesting read for me, taking the story of Christ and throwing this new time travelling spin on it. What would it look like if we could travel back in time to witness all the wonders of the world we were curious about?
Sadly, while the synopsis caught my attention, the book couldn’t hold it.
Here’s the confusing part. This is a good book. The story is lovely and will probably be quite moving to many Christians. Who wouldn’t want to go back and witness the last days of Christ, reaffirming their spiritual faith and belief in God? This is a wonderful piece of Christian Fiction that I think will probably find a happy home on the bookshelf of many families.
So why am I having such a hard time reviewing it? I don’t tend to read Christian Fiction. This is simply a matter of me thinking a book would interest me and being mistaken about that. This is not a negative reflection on the story or author as I believe that many other people may find these to be superb. I did like the characters and I think many will love the message behind the book. Mr. Sullivan obviously put a lot of time and effort into creating this book. From an objective standpoint, if there was anything that could have made this book stand out to me a bit more despite the reading preference differences, it would have been the character development. While they were fun to read, it would have been nice to see them have a little more oomph.
I would recommend this book to any fans of Christian Fiction, looking to add a nice story to their collection.
March 8, 2011
‘Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand what God’s gift of time truly is.’
Michael Stewart is no stranger to hardship: a troubled childhood; the death of his mother; living on the streets; and the loss of his wife Vicki have each contributed to his turning his back on his Christian faith. Michael is doing the best he can to raise his teenage daughter Elizabeth, but he’s finding life lonely and tough.
One Saturday, while helping at a church food drive, first Elizabeth and then Michael enter a trapdoor in the church basement. The trapdoor leads to a tunnel, and when Michael and Elizabeth reach the end of the tunnel, they find themselves in first century Jerusalem caught up in the events of the final week of the life of Jesus Christ. Michael and Elizabeth meet Leah, a kind widow, who tries to help them find their way home. Michael has a face to face encounter with Jesus, and has a life changing experience as a consequence.
The story is interspersed with flashbacks which flesh out the stories of Michael, Elizabeth and Leah by providing relevant background information. Michael and Elizabeth make repeated attempts to return home, but the tunnel they emerged from is being guarded and their attempts are thwarted until after Christ’s crucifixion. But they do succeed in returning home, and it seems that the future may well be brighter.
I read the earlier version of this novel in 2008, and while I enjoyed it as well, this is a more polished story. Because the story enables us to understand the causes and consequences of Michael’s pain, his journey back in time can be seen as a way of coming to terms with the past and re-igniting his faith for a more hopeful future. I understand that Mr Sullivan is working on the sequel entitled ‘The Greatest Christmas Gift’.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Michael Stewart is no stranger to hardship: a troubled childhood; the death of his mother; living on the streets; and the loss of his wife Vicki have each contributed to his turning his back on his Christian faith. Michael is doing the best he can to raise his teenage daughter Elizabeth, but he’s finding life lonely and tough.
One Saturday, while helping at a church food drive, first Elizabeth and then Michael enter a trapdoor in the church basement. The trapdoor leads to a tunnel, and when Michael and Elizabeth reach the end of the tunnel, they find themselves in first century Jerusalem caught up in the events of the final week of the life of Jesus Christ. Michael and Elizabeth meet Leah, a kind widow, who tries to help them find their way home. Michael has a face to face encounter with Jesus, and has a life changing experience as a consequence.
The story is interspersed with flashbacks which flesh out the stories of Michael, Elizabeth and Leah by providing relevant background information. Michael and Elizabeth make repeated attempts to return home, but the tunnel they emerged from is being guarded and their attempts are thwarted until after Christ’s crucifixion. But they do succeed in returning home, and it seems that the future may well be brighter.
I read the earlier version of this novel in 2008, and while I enjoyed it as well, this is a more polished story. Because the story enables us to understand the causes and consequences of Michael’s pain, his journey back in time can be seen as a way of coming to terms with the past and re-igniting his faith for a more hopeful future. I understand that Mr Sullivan is working on the sequel entitled ‘The Greatest Christmas Gift’.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 3, 2011
I was searching recently for a different kind of book, one that is faithfilled, kind of science fiction, yet original and brings Jesus into the picture. After reading this books synopsis and digging into the book's first chapters I knew I had chosen a good one to spend the day with.
Michael, a single parent is trying to raise his daughter Elizabeth, now a teenager alone, his wife Vicky had passed away during the baby's birth. Assisting the priest one night Michael and Elizabeth happen upon a tunnel at the church and find themselves walking into the 1st century Jerusalem in the time of Christ. They were looked upon as foreigners, their dress and language calling attention to themselves by the Roman soldiers and other bystanders. Michael and Elizabeth feel they must speak out against the atrocities they are witness to. They soon find out that defending someone in 1st century can sometimes produce harsh consequences. They are taken in by a kindly woman named Leah. She teaches them about her culture and way of life. While in Jerusalem Michael looks for a way to change the outcomes of events he knows that will happen, but yet knowing they must find their way back home somehow.
The novel also expertly blends Michael's past when he was younger so the reader can get to know his character more in depth.
This novel was quite an amazing story that will hold the readers attention throughout the book! History, suspense, drama and creativity are smoothly blended along with a twist ending in this well written first novel. Characters are well developed, plot, dialogue, description and scenery all work well as there are no dull parts. I found the overall message inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I look forward to reading more from Mr. Sullivan in the future! I highly recommend this book to others. Very Well Written!
Michael, a single parent is trying to raise his daughter Elizabeth, now a teenager alone, his wife Vicky had passed away during the baby's birth. Assisting the priest one night Michael and Elizabeth happen upon a tunnel at the church and find themselves walking into the 1st century Jerusalem in the time of Christ. They were looked upon as foreigners, their dress and language calling attention to themselves by the Roman soldiers and other bystanders. Michael and Elizabeth feel they must speak out against the atrocities they are witness to. They soon find out that defending someone in 1st century can sometimes produce harsh consequences. They are taken in by a kindly woman named Leah. She teaches them about her culture and way of life. While in Jerusalem Michael looks for a way to change the outcomes of events he knows that will happen, but yet knowing they must find their way back home somehow.
The novel also expertly blends Michael's past when he was younger so the reader can get to know his character more in depth.
This novel was quite an amazing story that will hold the readers attention throughout the book! History, suspense, drama and creativity are smoothly blended along with a twist ending in this well written first novel. Characters are well developed, plot, dialogue, description and scenery all work well as there are no dull parts. I found the overall message inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I look forward to reading more from Mr. Sullivan in the future! I highly recommend this book to others. Very Well Written!
April 20, 2010
From my blog...
I quite honestly did not know what to expect when I began reading Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan, although the novel pleasantly surprised me. Michael Stewart is a loving and struggling single father to 14-year-old Elizabeth, a rather typical teen, yet with so many questions about the mother she never got to know. Michael and Elizabeth are helping with the church's volunteer food drive and come across a mysterious trap door in the church's basement. Being curious Elizabeth goes through, and her father, unable to find her, enters himself, only to discover they have somehow been transported to Jerusalem, just prior to the crucifixion of Christ. During their time in Jerusalem, Michael and Elizabeth learn a lot about themselves and each other as well as Leah, the kind woman who took them in and kept them safe. Sullivan tells the narrative alternating between the present and the flashbacks from Michael's troubled past, Elizabeth's desire to make her dad happy, and Leah's losses. Will Michael and Elizabeth be able to find their way home or will they be forever trapped in Jerusalem? At the heart of the novel there are two Catholics who have lost some of their faith staying with a Jewish woman during Passover, which added a lovely dimension to the novel. The novel offers up some interesting questions that a discussion group could dive into, but as a solitary reader I remained ambivalent. I truly enjoyed the character of Leah and wish I would have felt as strongly toward Michael and Elizabeth. Necessary Heartbreak is a short and quick read which delves into some of the deepest issues of what it truly means to love, suffer loss, and to have faith.
I quite honestly did not know what to expect when I began reading Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan, although the novel pleasantly surprised me. Michael Stewart is a loving and struggling single father to 14-year-old Elizabeth, a rather typical teen, yet with so many questions about the mother she never got to know. Michael and Elizabeth are helping with the church's volunteer food drive and come across a mysterious trap door in the church's basement. Being curious Elizabeth goes through, and her father, unable to find her, enters himself, only to discover they have somehow been transported to Jerusalem, just prior to the crucifixion of Christ. During their time in Jerusalem, Michael and Elizabeth learn a lot about themselves and each other as well as Leah, the kind woman who took them in and kept them safe. Sullivan tells the narrative alternating between the present and the flashbacks from Michael's troubled past, Elizabeth's desire to make her dad happy, and Leah's losses. Will Michael and Elizabeth be able to find their way home or will they be forever trapped in Jerusalem? At the heart of the novel there are two Catholics who have lost some of their faith staying with a Jewish woman during Passover, which added a lovely dimension to the novel. The novel offers up some interesting questions that a discussion group could dive into, but as a solitary reader I remained ambivalent. I truly enjoyed the character of Leah and wish I would have felt as strongly toward Michael and Elizabeth. Necessary Heartbreak is a short and quick read which delves into some of the deepest issues of what it truly means to love, suffer loss, and to have faith.
August 9, 2011
#2
From biblical times to present day northeastern United States, Necessary Heartbreak portrays a historical picture of how easy it is to say what you belief and how difficult in the face of death it is to live up to that belief. We can all be courageous to the point of stupidity and as big a coward as the Lion from the Wizard of Oz. Knowing when to be quiet and when to speak or react becomes the most important tool for Michael and his teenage daughter Elizabeth as they butt heads in their ever evolving relationship of loss and love.
Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness receives a rating of 5.
REVIEWED by H. Diego, Wednesday, July 20, 2011 11:28 AM.
#1
An emotional story of growth and triumph
by Rhea Alexis M. Banks on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at 11:28am
Necessary Heartbreak by Micheal J. Sullivan is exactly one of the types of stories that I love to read. I love stories that evoke emotions and is full of triumph. This engagingly fast paced page turner, takes you on a very moving and emotional ride from the very beginning. It start off with a husband losing his wife after giving birth to their daughter. The results of this makes one notice their blessings as they read his story of pain, loss, hurt, renewal, growth and triumph. I truly enjoyed this book and all that it brought to me as it makes you feel, think and rejoice. I wanted to share it so I have referred it to four people and am buying it to give to two to four others. Well worth reading.
I give this book 5 stars.
From biblical times to present day northeastern United States, Necessary Heartbreak portrays a historical picture of how easy it is to say what you belief and how difficult in the face of death it is to live up to that belief. We can all be courageous to the point of stupidity and as big a coward as the Lion from the Wizard of Oz. Knowing when to be quiet and when to speak or react becomes the most important tool for Michael and his teenage daughter Elizabeth as they butt heads in their ever evolving relationship of loss and love.
Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness receives a rating of 5.
REVIEWED by H. Diego, Wednesday, July 20, 2011 11:28 AM.
#1
An emotional story of growth and triumph
by Rhea Alexis M. Banks on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at 11:28am
Necessary Heartbreak by Micheal J. Sullivan is exactly one of the types of stories that I love to read. I love stories that evoke emotions and is full of triumph. This engagingly fast paced page turner, takes you on a very moving and emotional ride from the very beginning. It start off with a husband losing his wife after giving birth to their daughter. The results of this makes one notice their blessings as they read his story of pain, loss, hurt, renewal, growth and triumph. I truly enjoyed this book and all that it brought to me as it makes you feel, think and rejoice. I wanted to share it so I have referred it to four people and am buying it to give to two to four others. Well worth reading.
I give this book 5 stars.
August 3, 2011
Necessary Heartbreak is the first of a trilogy of books by Michael J. Sullivan.
The story is about Michael Stewart who after his own troubled childhood after losing his own mother and a spell of been homeless and now after losing his wife he is a single father bringing up his teenage daughter Elizabeth. He is a good father and trying to do the best he can for his daughter. But due to past events he has completely lost his faith.
Michael and Elizabeth are helping out volunteering at their local church, when storing some boxes in the basement of the church, Michael finds a trap door, Michael thinking that Elizabeth may have gone through the trap door follows and finds himself in a tunnel and this is where the adventure begins!
They find that they have gone back in time to Holy week in Jerusalem and are caught up in the last week of Jesus’ life. Back to the time when the Romans where fierce and violent and brutal. With the help of a kind widow character called Leah will they be able to find their way back home? Will Michael’s faith be restored?
Necessary Heartbreak is a fantastic read; it draws you into the story from the very beginning. It is fast moving and can be read in one sitting. The storylines about Holy week are written with respect and it is clear a lot of research went into recording the accuracy of these events. This is one of those books that you just do not want to get to the end of and thankfully Michael J. Sullivan is working on the sequel for which I will be first in the queue to buy!
The story is about Michael Stewart who after his own troubled childhood after losing his own mother and a spell of been homeless and now after losing his wife he is a single father bringing up his teenage daughter Elizabeth. He is a good father and trying to do the best he can for his daughter. But due to past events he has completely lost his faith.
Michael and Elizabeth are helping out volunteering at their local church, when storing some boxes in the basement of the church, Michael finds a trap door, Michael thinking that Elizabeth may have gone through the trap door follows and finds himself in a tunnel and this is where the adventure begins!
They find that they have gone back in time to Holy week in Jerusalem and are caught up in the last week of Jesus’ life. Back to the time when the Romans where fierce and violent and brutal. With the help of a kind widow character called Leah will they be able to find their way back home? Will Michael’s faith be restored?
Necessary Heartbreak is a fantastic read; it draws you into the story from the very beginning. It is fast moving and can be read in one sitting. The storylines about Holy week are written with respect and it is clear a lot of research went into recording the accuracy of these events. This is one of those books that you just do not want to get to the end of and thankfully Michael J. Sullivan is working on the sequel for which I will be first in the queue to buy!
April 12, 2010
Necessary Heartbreak tells the story of Michael Stewart and his daughter Elizabeth, who fall through time to land in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. They get into trouble with Roman soldiers just about immediately, and spend the following week either in hiding, or running. What makes their adventure interesting is that Michael witnesses Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, betrayal in the garden, and actually helps bear the cross up the hill.
Interspersed with the scenes from Jerusalem are snippets from Michael's life, from childhood to adult to parent and widow. I felt that while the latter was meant to present Michael as a sympathetic character, he came across as unlucky and somewhat bitter. However, he's still a good person, and he tries to step in to stop Judas from his act of betrayal. And then questions whether he should--what would happen if Judas hadn't given Jesus up? The ramifications of the action war with his conscience--how do you let somebody go to their death?
Great premise for a story, but in the end I felt that it could have been more fleshed out--there could have been more, especially on Michael, and his and Elizabeth's relationship.
Interspersed with the scenes from Jerusalem are snippets from Michael's life, from childhood to adult to parent and widow. I felt that while the latter was meant to present Michael as a sympathetic character, he came across as unlucky and somewhat bitter. However, he's still a good person, and he tries to step in to stop Judas from his act of betrayal. And then questions whether he should--what would happen if Judas hadn't given Jesus up? The ramifications of the action war with his conscience--how do you let somebody go to their death?
Great premise for a story, but in the end I felt that it could have been more fleshed out--there could have been more, especially on Michael, and his and Elizabeth's relationship.
August 30, 2010
I am not a hundred percent sure if I should be reviewing this book, I didn't realize it had such spiritual, more specifically Christian, undertones. I will give it a try though and not let me own religious beliefs cloud my review.
The characters are dynamic, I can feel each and every single one of them and the writing of this author flows so well. I know the basics of Christianity and the Crucifixion and along those lines the research seemed well done. I really enjoy time travel fiction and this one is no exception. I liked this book a lot, knowing already the ending that Christ had, there are definitely some sad parts, loss of life in any form, especially in the way he died, is a sad thing. I definitely had a few tears going. I imagine someone of the same religion would feel the story much more deeply then I did.
My favorite line of the book: "Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God's gift of time truly is" I think this sentence transcends most religions. I recommend you give this book a try, no matter your religious persuasion.
The characters are dynamic, I can feel each and every single one of them and the writing of this author flows so well. I know the basics of Christianity and the Crucifixion and along those lines the research seemed well done. I really enjoy time travel fiction and this one is no exception. I liked this book a lot, knowing already the ending that Christ had, there are definitely some sad parts, loss of life in any form, especially in the way he died, is a sad thing. I definitely had a few tears going. I imagine someone of the same religion would feel the story much more deeply then I did.
My favorite line of the book: "Heartbreak is necessary for one to understand how great God's gift of time truly is" I think this sentence transcends most religions. I recommend you give this book a try, no matter your religious persuasion.
April 19, 2010
Necessary Heartbreak has a fascinating storyline that held my interest throughout the book. To take the reader back to the time of Christ and to present the possibility of being able to change history - how could one go wrong?
I enjoyed the total story, but found the characters weren't always believable. I found that somewhat frustrating as it hindered the story for me. The teenage daughter was what I would call a stereotypical teen - mouthy to her father and everyone else. When she goes back in time, she continues to be mouthy and doesn't seem to have any fear of anything around her. For me, this created a lack of realism and gave the feeling that I was reading a story written for a younger audience instead of an adult book.
Although I didn't always care for the characters, the book was a really interesting read, and one I would recommend to both teens and adults alike. It's still a fascinating story line, and one that would make a nice light summer read.
I enjoyed the total story, but found the characters weren't always believable. I found that somewhat frustrating as it hindered the story for me. The teenage daughter was what I would call a stereotypical teen - mouthy to her father and everyone else. When she goes back in time, she continues to be mouthy and doesn't seem to have any fear of anything around her. For me, this created a lack of realism and gave the feeling that I was reading a story written for a younger audience instead of an adult book.
Although I didn't always care for the characters, the book was a really interesting read, and one I would recommend to both teens and adults alike. It's still a fascinating story line, and one that would make a nice light summer read.
March 17, 2013
Necessary Heartbreak is a beautifully written book about faith/loss of faith, love, and forgiveness. Michael has been raising his daughter, Elizabeth, as a single parent. His wife, Victoria, died at childbirth. Though he had been raised Roman Catholic, he lost his faith after this loss of his wife. Not only did he lose his faith but himself and in a real sense the loss of enjoying his daughter.
Helping Liz with a service project at the local Catholic Church they stumble on a hidden trap door in the basement of the Church. Liz decides to check it out and Michael follows. They are startled to find that at the end of the long tunnel they find themselves in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Running afoul of a Roman soldier, they are aided and hidden by Leah who seems to recognize Michael.
Necessary Heartbreak related the events of Holy Week through the eyes of Michael, Liz and Leah.
This book is a beautiful story without being preachy.
Helping Liz with a service project at the local Catholic Church they stumble on a hidden trap door in the basement of the Church. Liz decides to check it out and Michael follows. They are startled to find that at the end of the long tunnel they find themselves in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Running afoul of a Roman soldier, they are aided and hidden by Leah who seems to recognize Michael.
Necessary Heartbreak related the events of Holy Week through the eyes of Michael, Liz and Leah.
This book is a beautiful story without being preachy.
August 26, 2010
I guarantee you won't be able to put this book down once you start it! Michael, a man who loses his wife with the birth of his daughter, has lost his faith. He stumbles with his daughter into a time warp that puts them both back in Jerusalem during the last week of Jesus Christs's life.
The Roman soldiers are violent during that time and he must keep himself and his daughter alive. He also sees Jesus Christ which shakes up his views on everything. He must find a way back to the present....
The book is good, extremely well written. The chapters do jump around a bit you have to pay attention, if that type of things drives you crazy don't read it. That would be the only reason not to read it the book is fascinating. I really felt at peace this morning when I read the last line of the book. The ending was supurb! I can't recomend this book greatly enough!
The Roman soldiers are violent during that time and he must keep himself and his daughter alive. He also sees Jesus Christ which shakes up his views on everything. He must find a way back to the present....
The book is good, extremely well written. The chapters do jump around a bit you have to pay attention, if that type of things drives you crazy don't read it. That would be the only reason not to read it the book is fascinating. I really felt at peace this morning when I read the last line of the book. The ending was supurb! I can't recomend this book greatly enough!
April 23, 2010
Necessary Heartbreak by Micheal J. Sullivan is exactly one of the types of stories that I love to read. I love stories that evoke emotions and is full of triumph. This engagingly fast paced page turner, takes you on a very moving and emotional ride from the very beginning. It start off with a husband losing his wife after giving birth to their daughter. The results of this makes one notice their blessings as they read his story of pain, loss, hurt, renewal, growth and triumph.
I truly enjoyed this book and all that it brought to me as it makes you feel, think and rejoice. I wanted to share it so I have referred it to four people and am buying it to give to two to four others. Well worth reading.
I truly enjoyed this book and all that it brought to me as it makes you feel, think and rejoice. I wanted to share it so I have referred it to four people and am buying it to give to two to four others. Well worth reading.
March 28, 2013
Well, hum. I liked this book a lot but found it in places to be a bit disjointed. If you're not a Christian, probably not the book for you. It is a fascinating story set in Jerusalem during the week between Palm Sunday and Good Friday. Michael, the still grieving father in the story, and his daughter, Elizabeth go through a time warp and come out in Jerusalem. I can only imagine what that would have been like. It was fascinating reading about what that part of the world must have been like at that time in history. I gave it a three star rating because of the choppy parts and feeling like there could have been a better way to write the parts that flowed poorly. Otherwise, a pretty good book that I'd recommend to some people and not so much to others. I will read the next in the series.
April 27, 2012
Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan is a wonderful story that takes us back in time with Michael, a widower and his teenage daughter Elizabeth. Michael and Elizabeth volunteer at the food pantry at their local church. While working in the basement of the church they stumble upon a hidden doorway that leads under the church. Unknowningly they end up in Jerusalem during the Passover Festivities. Things immediately start going wrong. This story is full of action and danger.
I won an autographed copy of Necessary Heartbreak from a recent blog giveaway and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I believe this book would be great read for young adult and older.
I won an autographed copy of Necessary Heartbreak from a recent blog giveaway and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I believe this book would be great read for young adult and older.
May 30, 2012
Necessary Heartbreak is one of my all time favorite books! Michael and his daughter take a journey back in time and take you along for the awesome trip to Jerusalem! I have bought 6 copies including the new Kindle edition! I have also given away at least 100 copies of this fabulous book! Be certain to get it to go along with Michael John Sullivan's newest book: "Everybody's Daughter!" "Necessary Heartbreak" is the first book of the trilogy and "Everybody's Daughter" is the second book in the trilogy. These two books are two of the only books I have given 5***** in my over 30 years of reviewing books!
April 12, 2013
I was intrigued about a novel depicting travel back to Jerusalem during the original Holy Week. While I enjoyed the overall book, I found the constant flashbacks extremely annoying. Just as I was starting to get into a scene in the book, he would flash back to a seemingly unrelated time. The story left me with a lot of unanswered questions, and I felt the writing should have been much more descriptive. I would have put the book down about half-way through, but felt like I should finish it to see if the story would become more riveting. It didn't. I did finish it, but felt like I had sat down at dinner with the smell of steak in the air and only got a hot dog.
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