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Crowning Glory
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- GenresContemporaryChristian
428 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2011
26 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Pat Simmons
96 books365 followersPat Simmons is a multi-published Christian romance author of forty-plus titles. She is a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth who is passionate about researching her ancestors, then casting them in starring roles in her novels. She is a five-time recipient of the RSJ Emma Rodgers Award for Best Inspirational Romance: Still Guilty, Crowning Glory, The Confession, Christmas Dinner, and Queen’s Surrender (To A Higher Calling). Pat’s first inspirational women’s fiction, Lean On Me, with Sourcebooks, was the February/March Together We Read Digital Book Club pick for the national library system. Here for You and Stand by Me are also part of the Family is Forever series. Her holiday indie release, Christmas Dinner, and traditionally published, Here for You were featured in Woman’s World, a national magazine. Here for You was also listed in the “7 Great Reads That Help to Keep the Faith” by Sisters From AARP. She contributed an article, “I’m Listening,” in the Chicken Soup for the Soul: I’m Speaking Now (2021). Pat is the recipient of the 2022 Leslie Esdaile “Trailblazer” Award given by Building Relationships Around Books Readers’ Choice for her work in the Christian fiction genre.
As a Christian, Pat describes the evidence of the gift of the Holy Ghost as a life-altering experience. She has been a featured speaker and workshop presenter at various venues across the country. Pat has converted her sofa-strapped sports fanatical husband into an amateur travel agent, untrained bodyguard, GPS-guided chauffeur, and administrative assistant who is constantly on probation. They have a son and a daughter. Pat holds a B.S. in mass communications from Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts and has worked in radio, television, and print media for more than twenty years. She oversaw the media publicity for the annual RT Booklovers Conventions for fourteen years. Visit her at www.patsimmons.net.
As a Christian, Pat describes the evidence of the gift of the Holy Ghost as a life-altering experience. She has been a featured speaker and workshop presenter at various venues across the country. Pat has converted her sofa-strapped sports fanatical husband into an amateur travel agent, untrained bodyguard, GPS-guided chauffeur, and administrative assistant who is constantly on probation. They have a son and a daughter. Pat holds a B.S. in mass communications from Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts and has worked in radio, television, and print media for more than twenty years. She oversaw the media publicity for the annual RT Booklovers Conventions for fourteen years. Visit her at www.patsimmons.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 6, 2012
Will She or Won't She?
Karyn Wallace has served her debt to society and is now biding her time while on parole. While incarcerated, Karyn was reborn into salvation. She doesn't expect society to forgive and forget, but at least she knows that through God all things are possible. And possible they are with Levi Tolliver, a widower with an adorable little girl who has set his sights on getting to know Karyn better.
After learning about Levi's wife's murder, Karyn fears that she and Levi may be on opposite sides of the law. While Levi is a God fearing man, he is still a victim and she an ex-offender. Can these two find a happily ever after?
CROWNING GLORY by Pat Simmons was an okay read. I liked the building of the romance, the presence of God and the cast of characters. I just felt like the story took the scenic route and it became repetitious. I also felt like Patrice and Jet were kind of left open. Overall, it was a good read.
Reviewed by: Crystal
Karyn Wallace has served her debt to society and is now biding her time while on parole. While incarcerated, Karyn was reborn into salvation. She doesn't expect society to forgive and forget, but at least she knows that through God all things are possible. And possible they are with Levi Tolliver, a widower with an adorable little girl who has set his sights on getting to know Karyn better.
After learning about Levi's wife's murder, Karyn fears that she and Levi may be on opposite sides of the law. While Levi is a God fearing man, he is still a victim and she an ex-offender. Can these two find a happily ever after?
CROWNING GLORY by Pat Simmons was an okay read. I liked the building of the romance, the presence of God and the cast of characters. I just felt like the story took the scenic route and it became repetitious. I also felt like Patrice and Jet were kind of left open. Overall, it was a good read.
Reviewed by: Crystal
April 21, 2011
Really good book, I liked it a lot. The story dealt with forgiveness, salvation, past regrets, and family relationships in a very relatable and realistic manner. I have a relative who went through something similar to what Karyn went through, with different circumstances of course.
I really like Levi, he was somewhat of a hero in Karyn's life. I think he showed up at a crucial time in her life. I loved the role that Rossi played in the story, he was always the voice of reason. It will be very interesting to see what happens in his life (if there was to be a sequel).
Jet was a wench at times, I wanted to slap her.
I like the role that each of the characters played in this story.
I would read this book again, and I would recommend it.
I really like Levi, he was somewhat of a hero in Karyn's life. I think he showed up at a crucial time in her life. I loved the role that Rossi played in the story, he was always the voice of reason. It will be very interesting to see what happens in his life (if there was to be a sequel).
Jet was a wench at times, I wanted to slap her.
I like the role that each of the characters played in this story.
I would read this book again, and I would recommend it.
January 7, 2013
I could not put this one down!!
June 9, 2021
Another excellent read from Pat Simmons! This was indeed a special read. The Scriptural references throughout this book provided much needed restraint for dealing with the characters. The power of forgiveness is a critical pivot point in a Christian's way of life. This story had me in tears, laughing and rejoicing throughout. So many gems from this read!
November 4, 2021
Redeemed!
What a blessing this book has been to me! The theme of ex-felons being given the good news of Jesus Christ. Redemption is a amazing theme that was beautifully written in this book. Confession of sins was paramount to redemption and justification. The post partum depression was a theme most delicately conducted
I enjoyed this author' writing style.
What a blessing this book has been to me! The theme of ex-felons being given the good news of Jesus Christ. Redemption is a amazing theme that was beautifully written in this book. Confession of sins was paramount to redemption and justification. The post partum depression was a theme most delicately conducted
I enjoyed this author' writing style.
February 16, 2022
Wow, this book had so many real life situations!
Karyn had faced so many obstacles, even though God forgave her she still struggled. The Tolliver family had a strong bond and a lot of faith. Levi fell in love with Karyn at first site. His sister in law Jet was a miserable mess. This is a must read!
Karyn had faced so many obstacles, even though God forgave her she still struggled. The Tolliver family had a strong bond and a lot of faith. Levi fell in love with Karyn at first site. His sister in law Jet was a miserable mess. This is a must read!
November 27, 2022
Great Book!
This was a great book. Anyone who is going through the difficulties o past transgressions, this is a must read book. It teaches us all that forgiveness should not be conditional. All of us have fallen short. Pat has written a lot of great books and this is just another added to the list.
This was a great book. Anyone who is going through the difficulties o past transgressions, this is a must read book. It teaches us all that forgiveness should not be conditional. All of us have fallen short. Pat has written a lot of great books and this is just another added to the list.
April 30, 2019
Love the story line. It definitely reminds us that God's. grace is sufficient.
It was a great read. Suspense filled. The characters are relatable and leave you thinking of those in your own life that mimic their personalities.
It was a great read. Suspense filled. The characters are relatable and leave you thinking of those in your own life that mimic their personalities.
November 12, 2021
Another great read
crowning glory caught my attention as I recently listened to a podcast and the author mentioned it as one of her favorites. After reading many of her books and enjoying them, I had to see why this book was special. I like that she is addressing real life and real hard life situations. I just couldn't put the book down other than to sleep and attend Sunday church services. My overall takeaway is that I must exercise more tolerance for those that were once incarcerated. I feel that I can apply love and respect but not sure since I haven't experienced this time. So I'm asking for grace in advance.
crowning glory caught my attention as I recently listened to a podcast and the author mentioned it as one of her favorites. After reading many of her books and enjoying them, I had to see why this book was special. I like that she is addressing real life and real hard life situations. I just couldn't put the book down other than to sleep and attend Sunday church services. My overall takeaway is that I must exercise more tolerance for those that were once incarcerated. I feel that I can apply love and respect but not sure since I haven't experienced this time. So I'm asking for grace in advance.
May 23, 2024
I liked the story however every point had to be backed by scripture. In real life people do not quote scripture and verse in every conversation. As a minister I get the need to provide reference for readers that's what the reference page is for. Overall, I liked the segment.
August 21, 2020
Great read. Powerful lessons learned with these characters on prayer, loving one another, forgiveness, and being judgemental. .
October 13, 2023
The storyline of this book was okay but it seemed to be slow moving. It was beyond the middle of the book before it really got good to me.
February 6, 2013
Karyn Wallace was a humble woman. She really believed that her past was forgiven and was taken out on the cross. Karyn was living a restricted life due to her being out on parole. Working at Books Unlimited, she met Levi and long story short, they fell in love. Levi's wife died when a store she was shopping at, was robbed. This left Levi a single parent, raising Dori with the help of his sister in law Jet.
Jet was a very bitter and mean woman due to her sister's death. So of course you already know, she didn't like the fact that Levi had feelings for Karyn and that her niece, Dori, was crazy about her. In spite of Jet's feelings and a rude co-worker named Patrice, Karyn still remained humble by the grace of God and support from her church family, her friend and roommate Buttercup, and her sister who tracked her down after hearing she was released.
Crowning Glory is a great story and continuously made me smile throughout but there are some things I did not like to much. First I didn't like the fact that I had to wait almost to the 30th chapter to find out what the crime was that Karyn committed. Second was it seemed very repetitive in the beginning. I feel like if you are going to stretch a story, at least give new information and lines. Third is the fact that we know what happened to all of the characters accept for Jet and she was one of the main characters also.
Other than that, this book was very interesting and different. I love the subjects that the sermons were on, I love the many scriptures of encouragement, remembrance of salvation, and forgiveness. There is not much more for me to say because I don't want to be a spoiler ;) Enjoy!
Jet was a very bitter and mean woman due to her sister's death. So of course you already know, she didn't like the fact that Levi had feelings for Karyn and that her niece, Dori, was crazy about her. In spite of Jet's feelings and a rude co-worker named Patrice, Karyn still remained humble by the grace of God and support from her church family, her friend and roommate Buttercup, and her sister who tracked her down after hearing she was released.
Crowning Glory is a great story and continuously made me smile throughout but there are some things I did not like to much. First I didn't like the fact that I had to wait almost to the 30th chapter to find out what the crime was that Karyn committed. Second was it seemed very repetitive in the beginning. I feel like if you are going to stretch a story, at least give new information and lines. Third is the fact that we know what happened to all of the characters accept for Jet and she was one of the main characters also.
Other than that, this book was very interesting and different. I love the subjects that the sermons were on, I love the many scriptures of encouragement, remembrance of salvation, and forgiveness. There is not much more for me to say because I don't want to be a spoiler ;) Enjoy!
June 29, 2016
Karyn Wallace is on probation after serving time for an unimaginable crime. During her four years in prison, Karyn came to Christ through the Crowns For Christ outreach ministry. Her faith sustains her, even through all the restrictions placed on her as an ex-convict. Her goal is to finish out her probation and then be able to live her life freely again.
Levi Tolliver is a Christian who has not yet mastered forgiveness. His wife was killed during a robbery, leaving him a single father of a young daughter. He's incapable of turning the other cheek, and feels that anyone who commits a crime deserves the harshest punishment.
When Levi meets Karyn at the bookstore where she works. he is smitten, as is his daughter Dori. Karyn is interested, but uneasy. Dating him would be difficult given the restrictions she's under. When she learns about his feelings about criminals, she becomes more uneasy, but determined to see this relationship through. She refuses to sway away from the scripture, “He who the Son has set free is free indeed.”
I enjoyed learning about the restrictions placed on ex-convicts and the determination Karyn and her friends Buttercup and Halo had to reinvent themselves and succeed despite having taken wrong turns in their lives. Levi also has a journey to come through, as does his sister-in-law Jet, who remains bitter and angry after the death of her sister.
I hope to see more of these characters in future books, particularly Jet.
Levi Tolliver is a Christian who has not yet mastered forgiveness. His wife was killed during a robbery, leaving him a single father of a young daughter. He's incapable of turning the other cheek, and feels that anyone who commits a crime deserves the harshest punishment.
When Levi meets Karyn at the bookstore where she works. he is smitten, as is his daughter Dori. Karyn is interested, but uneasy. Dating him would be difficult given the restrictions she's under. When she learns about his feelings about criminals, she becomes more uneasy, but determined to see this relationship through. She refuses to sway away from the scripture, “He who the Son has set free is free indeed.”
I enjoyed learning about the restrictions placed on ex-convicts and the determination Karyn and her friends Buttercup and Halo had to reinvent themselves and succeed despite having taken wrong turns in their lives. Levi also has a journey to come through, as does his sister-in-law Jet, who remains bitter and angry after the death of her sister.
I hope to see more of these characters in future books, particularly Jet.
June 6, 2016
Crowning Glory by Pat Simmons
Restore My Soul Series Book One
Karyn Wallace has committed a crime, served her time, and is now out on parole. Besides her roommate and some folks at church—her past is her business. God has forgiven her so she doesn't have to broadcast it. Not even the guy she's falling in love with. Or does she?
Levi Tolliver has been going through life not fully alive for four years now. Ever since the night his wife was murdered. He does have his wonderful daughter and she is the joy of his life. And he has his sister-in-law—although often times he could do without Jet and her bitter attitude. Can he truly find love and happiness a second time? It almost seems possible when he meets Karyn.
Pastor Rossi Tolliver, Levi's cousin and business partner, has been praying for many people, Levi included. He wants to be happy that his cousin is finally coming out of mourning but God keeps urging him to pray for this situation. Not to mention constant prayer for Jet, who seems to be getting more angry and bitter with each year since Diane's death.
Just because someone has spent time in prison does not mean they are beyond hope. Especially where God intervenes. And for those who come out, life is not easy. It seems they have EX-CON stamped on their foreheads and everyone writes them off as hopeless. This book gives a unique view from Karyn's perspective.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Restore My Soul Series Book One
Karyn Wallace has committed a crime, served her time, and is now out on parole. Besides her roommate and some folks at church—her past is her business. God has forgiven her so she doesn't have to broadcast it. Not even the guy she's falling in love with. Or does she?
Levi Tolliver has been going through life not fully alive for four years now. Ever since the night his wife was murdered. He does have his wonderful daughter and she is the joy of his life. And he has his sister-in-law—although often times he could do without Jet and her bitter attitude. Can he truly find love and happiness a second time? It almost seems possible when he meets Karyn.
Pastor Rossi Tolliver, Levi's cousin and business partner, has been praying for many people, Levi included. He wants to be happy that his cousin is finally coming out of mourning but God keeps urging him to pray for this situation. Not to mention constant prayer for Jet, who seems to be getting more angry and bitter with each year since Diane's death.
Just because someone has spent time in prison does not mean they are beyond hope. Especially where God intervenes. And for those who come out, life is not easy. It seems they have EX-CON stamped on their foreheads and everyone writes them off as hopeless. This book gives a unique view from Karyn's perspective.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
August 7, 2011
Mending Broken Hearts
After seven visits to Bookshelves Unlimited, widower Levi Tolliver asks Karyn Wallace, the store's children specialist, out on a date. He believes that God is telling him it's time to move on. He's been grieving the loss of his wife, Diane, for the past four years. With the help of his daughter Dori, he is slowly bringing his head from underneath the sand.
Karyn Wallace has had to overcome a lot. She found God while serving time. After being released from jail, she continues her walk. With school, work and church occupying her time, she doesn't seem to have time for anything or anyone else. That is until she met Levi and Dori.
Levi and his daughter Dori are truly in love with Karyn. He's attending her church, taking her to dinner and sending her flowers. Karyn has fallen in love with Levi and his daughter. Unfortunately, she has not been truthful with Levi. Karyn's secret has the potential to turn Levi's love for her into pure hate. Can their love handle the past?
Pat Simmons has done it again! "Crowning Glory" is an easy read and as always the book gives me comfort. As I read her books I always have my bible open.
Reviewed by: Carmen
After seven visits to Bookshelves Unlimited, widower Levi Tolliver asks Karyn Wallace, the store's children specialist, out on a date. He believes that God is telling him it's time to move on. He's been grieving the loss of his wife, Diane, for the past four years. With the help of his daughter Dori, he is slowly bringing his head from underneath the sand.
Karyn Wallace has had to overcome a lot. She found God while serving time. After being released from jail, she continues her walk. With school, work and church occupying her time, she doesn't seem to have time for anything or anyone else. That is until she met Levi and Dori.
Levi and his daughter Dori are truly in love with Karyn. He's attending her church, taking her to dinner and sending her flowers. Karyn has fallen in love with Levi and his daughter. Unfortunately, she has not been truthful with Levi. Karyn's secret has the potential to turn Levi's love for her into pure hate. Can their love handle the past?
Pat Simmons has done it again! "Crowning Glory" is an easy read and as always the book gives me comfort. As I read her books I always have my bible open.
Reviewed by: Carmen
May 16, 2011
Karyn Wallace and Levi Tolliver have lived the last four years in purgatory. Both couldn't reconcile the pain that ripped their hearts apart with the joy of God's redeeming Grace. God drew them together through Bookshelves Unlimited while little Dori opened their hearts to the ultimate forgiveness. However, the devil wasn't ready to step out of their life just yet. The past reared isn't ugly head and love may not conquered all.
Simmons shines in this Godly romance. This avid reader was overwhelmed by the compassion written and scriptures that spoke to my soul. There were points that I identified with each character which led me to further investigate other scriptures. She uses family history, murder, prison, and post partum depression along with scriptures to show God's ultimate sacrifice and constant forgiveness of sins. The character development and storyline pace will have you mesmerized as two families face their demons. CROWNING GLORY is a masterpiece of Christian romance which is definitely is a MUST read.
Simmons shines in this Godly romance. This avid reader was overwhelmed by the compassion written and scriptures that spoke to my soul. There were points that I identified with each character which led me to further investigate other scriptures. She uses family history, murder, prison, and post partum depression along with scriptures to show God's ultimate sacrifice and constant forgiveness of sins. The character development and storyline pace will have you mesmerized as two families face their demons. CROWNING GLORY is a masterpiece of Christian romance which is definitely is a MUST read.
May 27, 2012
Karyn Wallace found God while serving time. Once released, she is determined not to stray from God. While on parole, she works at Bookshelves Unlimited as a children's specialist and takes some classes at a local college.
Levi Tolliver is a successful businessman who loses his wife in a robbery. While grieving, he's raising their daughter, Dori. Her love for books is what led her father to meet Karyn.
They both have a past they're trying to move on from. Karyn isn't so open about hers. Will her past end what could be a fairy tale romance?
I loved the character development. Simmons does an excellent job of giving you enough information about their past to keep you on edge. The book flowed well. This is a phenomenal work of redemption
Levi Tolliver is a successful businessman who loses his wife in a robbery. While grieving, he's raising their daughter, Dori. Her love for books is what led her father to meet Karyn.
They both have a past they're trying to move on from. Karyn isn't so open about hers. Will her past end what could be a fairy tale romance?
I loved the character development. Simmons does an excellent job of giving you enough information about their past to keep you on edge. The book flowed well. This is a phenomenal work of redemption
July 9, 2011
CROWING GLORY was a very good story and a solid addition to Ms. Simmons' growing body of quality stories. While it took a bit too long for Levi to discover Karyn's secret, the emotional angst each of the central characters faced made their internal conflict and the inevitable conflict between them very believable. CROWNING GLORY is a wonderful story of forgiveness and finding self-worth in Christ.
August 1, 2011
Crowning Glory by Pat Simmons is about starting over under God's direction. The main character is trying to start over from a past that she rather forget. When she meets a Christian man that loves her unconditionally she is terrified of telling him about her current living arrangements and how she ending up in that situation. When her secret is revealed she continues to pray for understanding. Will he be able to move on? or will it destroy their relationship?
July 3, 2016
A freed soul in Christ
Five stars are not enough for Karyn and Levi's story about love and forgiveness. This carefully crafted novel is full of God's grace and mercy.
The characters are well thought out and the storyline serves as a ministry for those suffering from postpartum depression. Not enough is known about this condition.
The story is an unusual twist on redemption
and how God favors us when we least expect it.
I just loved this book!
Five stars are not enough for Karyn and Levi's story about love and forgiveness. This carefully crafted novel is full of God's grace and mercy.
The characters are well thought out and the storyline serves as a ministry for those suffering from postpartum depression. Not enough is known about this condition.
The story is an unusual twist on redemption
and how God favors us when we least expect it.
I just loved this book!
July 11, 2016
I'm forgiven!!!
Wow, Levi is so self righteous, even though he had a devastating situation in his life, he fail to realize through Christ we are redeemed. I was surprised with all the chain of events in his thinking it turned out like it did. Women are strong and men need to know that, especially Save women. Even tho I did really enjoy the book,I became frustrated with that Levi , you will too!
Wow, Levi is so self righteous, even though he had a devastating situation in his life, he fail to realize through Christ we are redeemed. I was surprised with all the chain of events in his thinking it turned out like it did. Women are strong and men need to know that, especially Save women. Even tho I did really enjoy the book,I became frustrated with that Levi , you will too!
August 9, 2011
Cinderella had a Prince; Karyn Wallace has a King. Her King change everything in her life. He shows her
how to love again and gave peace within herself.
"Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling....." and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy". (Jude 1:24). You will enjoy this book.
how to love again and gave peace within herself.
"Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling....." and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy". (Jude 1:24). You will enjoy this book.
May 6, 2011
"Crowning Glory" was excellent! The story of survival, redemption and forgiveness...mixed in with a little unforgiveness, kept me turning the pages. Good scriptural references for personal use; and the St. Louis setting made it even more personal. Read and enjoy!
July 8, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were believable and you could feel how they felt. The emotions that the main characters Levi and Karyn had to deal with worked along with the supporting characters.
I hope there will be more books in this series.
I hope there will be more books in this series.
November 5, 2016
I'm hooked!
These Tollivers...I loved reading Levi and Karen's story. Two broken individuals, that with love and God, found their way to each other. Both of them fell down but got back up with God and their love for each other. I need more Tollivers!
These Tollivers...I loved reading Levi and Karen's story. Two broken individuals, that with love and God, found their way to each other. Both of them fell down but got back up with God and their love for each other. I need more Tollivers!
January 5, 2012
I loved it. The guilty series is still my favorite and will always be, but this is a close second. Pat Simmons outdid herself with this one.
Read
July 12, 2012I've never finished it. I have to find it to finish it. I may have to purchase a new one. That's why I haven't yet rated it. But,normally I like all books from www.urbanchristianonline.com
September 18, 2014
Excellent, a real page turner
January 29, 2015
This one was very good as well. Sometimes the punishment doesn't always fit the crime. I am happy it ended the way it did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews