Reviewer/Author Endorsements
"...superbly written...highly recommended reading."
James Cox, Midwest Book Review
"...well done...a complicated story told with precision."
Jo Hollier, Williamson County, TX Sun
"...down to earth...wonderful...It kept me riveted to the end..."
Rian Montgomery, ChickLitBooks.com
"...a grand illustration of love and forgiveness...recommended..."
Craig Hart, craighart.net
"...absolutely wonderful...very impressive..."
Michelle Bates, Minden, LA Press-Herald
"...enjoyable...well written...refreshing..."
Faye Dasen, The Sandhills, NC Pilot.com
"...intelligence, wit, and charm..."
ShopItHere.com
"...characters are easy to like ...strong plotline...a decent, light-hearted inspirational romance..."
Angela McQuay, Curled Up With A Good Book.com
"Forgiveness, grace, love, and courage are highlighted...It is a story of...accepting and practicing God's love and forgiveness...."
Linda Mae Baldwin, The Road To Romance
This book is great! I just love that the story revolves around a church, reminding us that church members aren't perfect, just forgiven... as the saying goes... and I love the forgiveness theme.
In theory, forgiveness seems so easy...but in practicality, it never seems to be in my life!! It's like I can picture church members that I know for each character, with their personalities and situations. (Unfortunately, I've pictured a few "Claras" from different congregations I've been a part of, too! And, it stands as a huge reminder for ME not to ever be a Clara!)
I couldn't wait to finish! The writing pulled me in from the very beginning! I was so invested in the characters!
Julie Lavender
Author, 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments Into Lasting Memories
Although it seems like another "boy meets girl" story, this novel is much more profound. It is preciously written. I found it hard not to devour the book in one sit, because the main couple is adorable and relatable. It was automatic to believe them and feel antipathy for their main enemy. The author's craft at describing their feelings, and how these inner thoughts blocked their chances to be together, is admirable. There are several twists and surprises. The Christian environment also adds to the singularity of this novel, as belonging to an evangelical church does not seem to help the couple much. But all this is appearances, as there is the love, faith, sadness, jealousy, and forgiveness that Christianity has shown us. This novel has it all. Totally recommended.
Celso Montemar (Juan Cristobal Castro-Alonso, Ph.D.), Santiago, Chile
Author, Ivan's Tests
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this compelling book. Not only is the characterization tight, but the pace is fast and commands the reader's attention. Moreover, the message rings true throughout ~ fascinating people that grab your heart and work through problems that most people face in one way or another. This is probably the BEST Christian novel I've read in a very long time. Highly recommend!
Susan Jenkins
Author, Scandalon: Running From Shame and Finding God's Scandalous Love
I had not felt well the past few days, so I piled up on the couch yesterday with To Forgive, Divine in hand. I read it most of the day yesterday...didn't want to put it down!
I finished it last night. Absolutely loved it! The characters seemed so real and genuine. And I think probably every church must have a Clara in the congregation! She made me so mad!
And Pastor Jeff (like so many men I know) was so clueless!
Christian romance is one of my favorite genres. I am so glad I discovered To Forgive, Divine! I intend to give it a shout-out on my page, and I will definitely recommend To Forgive, Divine to my friends!
Peggy Lee Napier
Author, Out on the Hills
Melissa Lea Leedom is gifted for getting you into the story and keeping you there. The novel flows well, and the conversations leap off the page!
Sam Frost, Th.M.
Author, Daniel Unplugged: A Commentary & Translation
Christian women will fall in love with Bonnie as she struggles with stepping into the dating world after being a widow for several years. You'll find it hard to put this book down as you visit Small Town USA, with all the perks and downfalls of a close knit community. Watch how God weaves the lives of these characters together with a theme of forgiveness throughout the story.
Carolyn Dale Newell
Christian Speaker/Author, Walking By Faith, Not Sight: 30 Inspirational Moments with Iva
The author does a brilliant job of catching the attention of the reader by creating characters that are interesting and have great depth. This is truly a story that touches you in a way that causes reflection long after you've finished reading. Don't miss the opportunity to be immersed in the lives of these unique characters.
Terrance Adam
Author,The Poker Player and The Preacher
Bonnie is a widow with two young sons living in a typical southern town. The author's depiction of friendships, neighbors, work relationships, and church family all help to build a very believable world that I enjoyed stepping into.
The attraction between Bonnie and Jeff, her widowed pastor did not feel rushed. The story is paced well, and the characters go through emotional turmoil that keeps the story interesting and made me want to read the next chapter. Their love grew as the story unfolded. I was sad when the story came to an end and would love to visit this town again.
Great job Melissa Lea Leedom!
KC Hart
Author, Moonlight, Murder, and Small Town Secrets (A Katy Cross Cozy Mystery Book 1)
What a fantastic contemporary Christian romance!
I loved how she brought each character to life. Many times as I was reading I felt like I was watching a movie because of her ability to bring you along in her descriptive way.
You'll find yourself cheering some of the characters on, at one point I had to laugh because her book almost begs you to forgive one of the ladies because she builds her personality so well you actually think you know her.
I highly recommend To Forgive, Divine to anyone who would like to read great literature, along with a classic clean love story. What an awesome Christmas present to give to one of your girlfriends, momma, sister, or, heck, a complete stranger!
Michele Davenport
Author, Ripened on the Vine
There are many Christian books on the market today, so it's refreshing when one stands out in both plot and characters. Leedom has taken a basic principle of the Christian faith--forgiveness--and put a spin on it that involves the everyday challenges we all face, yet often neglect to overcome. There were times when the pace of the story was so intense, I couldn't put it down, and overall, the characters were realistic. The likeable ones were likeable and the others folks we've all encountered. Hopefully, Leedom will follow up with a couple of the characters and give us their stories in the future. Well worth your time to read.
D.A. (Dorothy) Featherling
Author, Friendly, Michael, Marry-Go-Round, It Adds Up to Murder ("It's Murder at the Office," Volume 1), Murder Outside the Box ("Staged for Murder" Series, Volume 1)
I finished your book and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. I liked the characters and how kind and loving they were to each other (Clara excepted). We all need more of that kind of modeling in our lives. I can't help but feel that there must be much of you in Bonnie.
Jim Comer
Author, When Roles Reverse: A Guide to Parenting Your Parents
More Than a Typical Love Story! Melissa Leedom's engaging writing style kept me riveted and desiring to know what happens next to the characters she so thoroughly described. If you like romances, you will find this story enjoyable. To Forgive, Divine goes beyond a typical love story plot with a profound message of forgiveness supported by Scripture. The importance of open and honest communication when we feel offended instead of acting on our assumptions, which may be incorrect, became apparent as the characters struggled with their emotions.
Gena Barnhill
Author, Freedom From Brokenness: Lessons Learned Through Inner Healing Prayer
Melissa Leedom captures love, romance, and awe-inspiring forgiveness in this highly recommended book. The story of widow Bonnie Callaway and the challenges she faces is one you won't want to miss.
Marie Cariker
Author, Emily: 1873
Praise From Pastors and Ministers
Wonderful characters and a wonderful story. You can't go wrong with this author!
Rob Fisk
Pastor, Heart Mountain Ministries, Crossville, TN
Wonderful Christian novel! When you start reading, you probably would feel like reading it till the end! Good plot, nice flow, transformational insights. To Forgive, Divine by Melissa Lea Leedom has all of that great ingredients. Check it out.
Joe Abraham
Founder, Lead Notes, Kochi, India
This book is a page turner! A very well written story that teaches us about forgiving each other and the forgiveness of God. Once you start reading this book you won’t want to stop. If you are looking for an engaging book that is full of hope and redemption this the book for you. It’s rare to find a book that touches so many deep places in your heart that reads so easy. I highly recommend this book!
Joshua West
Pastor, Sonrise Adult and Teen Challenge, Cache, OK
You look at a book and the title is different - To Forgive, Divine - A Novel? You turn to glance at another book, but something pulls you back. I thought, "I seldom read novels." You turn away, and, again, the title intrigues you.
You start to read the story of two people in the South. The words pull you to read on to the next page. Something in the way this story reflects real life keeps you turning pages.
Bonnie and Jeff have a casual friendship.. A church minister, a twinkle in the eye. No, it can’t be. Why?
A spying neighbor... I should turn the lights off and get some sleep. But no, I must see what comes next.
Then comes a walk on a beautiful moonlit beach. How does this finally happen? You might be surprised where this book will take you.. I highly recommend it!
Rev. Bruce Manning
Missionary to Chile, Retired, AuthorFiel Faithful Pistos
In this story, Melissa Leedom demonstrates comfortable and credible prose, as well as a thorough understanding of human interaction. Her tale is set against the backdrop of life within the culture of a Christian church in the south, which will be familiar to adherents, but not off-putting to the uninitiated. At the same time, as the title suggests, the author intends a thorough consideration of the notion of forgiveness and reconciliation. With generous use of internal dialogue, primarily from the major female character, Ms. Leedom constructs several "good" characters, never hesitating to expose their human and morally incomplete substance, and a few "evil" souls. For a gripping story, with a dose of uncertainty and mystery, I highly recommended this work.
The Reverend Dr. Robert M. Newell
Missionary to Albania, Retired
When I started reading, I was spellbound right off. Didn't want to put it down. Ooh, but that Clara chick gets my goat! Lol!
...Just finished To Forgive, Divine. Loved it. Especially the Christian element. Being a Christian singer/songwriter, I truly enjoyed this book. God bless.
Piet Goemans
Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Bass Singer at Village Voices, Ontario, Canada
Such an engaging story. I found myself anxiously awaiting the ending and hoping that God would work things out for the main characters in the end! I love how morals, values and honesty were things to live for and strive for in this story even as people, circumstances and timing were working against them. A very true to life story that emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and God's presence in our lives. Well done.
Yyvette
Medina
Singer, Songwriter, Littleton, CO
I loved this book and I stayed up half the night reading it the first day I got it. A beautifully written Christian story of forgiveness with characters that are flawed and struggling but totally believable. Melissa Leedom is a gifted writer and I'd love to read more from her. I highly recommend this book.
Jack Phelps,
Associate Pastor, Retired, Georgetown, TX
Good Summer Read! Two Christian singles find love, but this is not your conventional "the preacher did it" story. It is about how love triumphs over jealous gossip, Bible-belt piety and repeated false assumptions. In the end, forgiveness "communicated" wins the day. Buy it, read it.
Stuart Douglas Depew, Interim Pastor
Gonzales, Texas
I enjoyed reading To Forgive, Divine. Melissa Leedom captures the characters in a very personal way, allowing the reader to feel what the characters feel. To Forgive, Divine is a very heartfelt story expressing the characters' struggles and victories while threading the need to forgive and trust that God's plan is being woven throughout our lives.
Rev. Mark Sowersby, Pastor,
Christian Assembly of Schuyler, Schuyler, NY
Founder, Forgiving the Nightmare Online Ministry
Author, Forgiving the Nightmare
I took your book with me to read, as I was to be away from home from a couple of days.
Bad move!! Once I started it, I couldn't put it down - read until 3:30 AM and finished it first night!!
Great book - so realistic and, as a pastor for 30 years, I could relate to the chain of events and to "Clara." I am not sure there is a church without one!!! Thanks, too, for showing the Pastor as a real person with real emotions and the ability to err from time to time. It was nice not to see him on a pedestal, but also to see him as a man's man - not some effeminate tea-sipping white collared incompetent.
It was a great read and I appreciate the insights that are woven through the story, especially a glimpse into the life of a single-again person's feelings, etc. Please let us know when your next book is coming out.
Rev. Eric McGrath, Retired
Alberta, Canada
To Forgive, Divine is a fun read. Melissa really knows the dynamics of a congregation. I highly recommend it!
Peggy Groseclose
Senior Associate Pastor, Reired
Bel Air United Methodist Church, Bel Air, MD
Melissa Leedom has jumped right to the top along with the multiple-book authors with this her first Christian romance novel. I didn't want to put it down! I hung on each chapter eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Her character development was all too real in church life. I can hardly wait for the next book!
Charlotte Watson
Minister of Missions/Member Assimilation
First Baptist Church, Georgetown, TX
Author of 100+ Ways to Be Involved in Missions
Melissa's characters face real struggles to live out their Christianity and keep their faith intact. I read til 4 A.M. because I had to see how it ended. This book is wonderful!
Barbara McNeir
former Minister of Single Adults
Columbia Baptist Church, Falls Church, VA
I have just finished your book, and pray that it gets a wide reading. It is well done, and I appreciate the message on forgiveness plus the wonderful tale. My guess would be, if I did not know it for a fact, that you have been involved in Baptist church life. I will encourage all three of my daughters to read it - wishing that my oldest could have read it, too. I like Jeff Wells, and appreciate your naming him for me.
Frank Wells, Th.D.
Former Missionary to Indonesia
Former Pastor, First Baptist Church, Enterprise, AL
Former Interim Pastor, First Baptist Church, Dothan, AL
What a great book! I couldn't put it down! I have read many books by Janette Oke and Francine Rivers and would rank Melissa Leedom's book right up there with these other great fiction writers. I especially liked her including the plan of salvation as a very natural part of the conversation in the narrative. I'm looking forward to the next one!
Jan Brown, Coordinator
Williamson County Christian Women's Connection
Stonecroft Ministries
Georgetown, TX
I finished reading your book last night and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am still amazed at how someone can write a book, but I am very thankful that the Lord has given folks like you such talent, as I surely do enjoy reading. I hope that you will continue to write. I will be sharing To Forgive, Divine with other friends that also enjoy reading.
Susan Canady
IMB Missionary to Honduras
To Forgive, Divine by Melissa Leedom, is a book that draws one into the complex issues of love, hurt, judgement and forgiveness. The characters are true to life in all ways. Despite their personal relationships with Christ and their respective positions in their churches, their humanity shines forth endearingly. The romantic elements are understatedly poignant without being sickly sweet. This book is an excellent read that truly captivates one's attention. The only problem with it is that you won't want to put it down! This book is available on Kindle and on Amazon. You won't be disappointed!
Jude Seddon, Ph.D.
Founder, Messengers Of Light For God
This book was very engaging and is a good read. I would recommend it highly.
Ricky Thrasher
State Consultant, Association Missions, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
I have read your book and it was a blessing. I wanted you to know that I have recommended to all the Texas Baptist Camp managers that they carry To Forgive, Divine in their gift/bookstores.
My wife and I are praying God's best for you as you serve Him.
W.L. "Red" Colquitt
Camp Consultant
Baptist General Convention of Texas
Letters and Reviews from Readers
Bonnie is a widow with two young boys to bring up. She is heavily involved in her church and her Pastor, Jeff is also widowed. Bonnie and Jeff realise they have a mutual liking for each other but it doesn’t take long for things to get in the way of a budding romance.
I enjoyed this book and found it interesting, especially as I’m married to a vicar and a lot of things in this book struck a chord with me! Overall, I liked the story and how God is shown to be so important in our every day lives.
Dee Groocock.
United Kingodm - Amazon.com Review
This is a great book to sit and enjoy on a quiet afternoon. The story is heartwarming and the characters are lovable. The author delivers a simple message to the reader: don't let your perception cause you to judge others. If you allow the notions and preconceived ideas of other people to influence you, chances are you will be wrong. Melissa Leedom delivered a beautiful love story about forgiveness without "pushing" God to the reader. Anyone who is a non-Christian may enjoy this book because it applies to all of us. I definitely look forward to reading Melissa's other books.
Nora M.
Donna, TX
To Forgive, Divine: A Novel is a beautiful and well crafted story!
The story pulled me in early on with the strength shown in spite of heartbreak in the main character's pasts. Bonnie and Jeff are such warm, likable characters that you can't help but cheer for them to let go of their pasts and find the happiness God has in store for them. In addition to the subject of embracing new love, the author weaves into her lovely story, the strength and the steadfastness of God's love.
Faith Heart, Wilmington, NC - Amazon.com Review
This story is full of warm, believable characters that made me want to keep reading their story beyond this novel. The characters are realistic, human and likeable. Melissa Leedom has woven together a story that is inspirational, clean and truly heartfelt.
An excellent novel on the struggle to forgive when the wounds and hurt run deep and the wounded person allows pride and resentment to get in the way. God's grace enables the wounded to forgive each other (as His grace works the same in real life) to end with a HEA!
Edwina C.,
Newnan, GA - Amazon.com Review
There are some authors, like Madeleine L'Engle, that can take the essence of a concept and put it in words. This gal is one of them. It will make you cheer for the heroes and show you the correct attitude to have toward them that seek to harm you. It will have you laughing and crying, and in the end you have a better idea of what charity truly is.
I highly recommend this book, especially to new Christians.
Ed Elmore, Hannibal, MO - Amazon.com Review
Most of us have had one of those misunderstandings in our lives. You are SURE you know the truth, only to find out you are VERY mistaken about the facts.
To Forgive, Divine is full of life's big misunderstandings that could be easily solved with a little bit of time and patience...and a listening ear. From the main characters, Bonnie and Jeff, all the way to a young boy, JaMa'al, we find that forgiveness is needed in all aspects of life. Although, it sometimes needs a little encouragement from a special friend.
If you enjoy Christian Romance with a lot of twists and turns, you'll like To Forgive, Divine by Melissa Lea Leedom.
Ramona Maspons
New Orleans, LA - Amazon.com Review
I have just finished reading To Forgive, Divine! It took a while to read as my eyes water fairly easily from reading - or caused by what I'm reading!
Oh ! That woman Clara needs to be dealt with severely and given some of her own medicine!
It was a very good read.
Norman Grace
Bucks, United Kingdom - personal message to forgive490@yahoo.com
I absolutely loved this book! I had never read a Christian romance, but it was full of love, forgiveness, the danger of gossip and a clear presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! I absolutely recommend this book!! .
L.L.
Houston, TX - Amazon.com Review
To Forgive, Divine is a different kind of romance novel. It has intelligence, wit and charm woven into a plot that accurately reflects the concerns of our time. Ms. Leedom's characters are multi-dimensional, with the all-too-human faults and failings of ordinary people finding their way in a complicated world. From the first tenuous steps of a man and a woman recognizing a mutual attraction, through their journey of understanding, to the ending that could only be written with Divine guidance, the book is a page-turner.
G.S. Taylor
Killeen, TX - Amazon.com Review
The author has an extraordinary grasp of the dynamics in relationships and the equally masterful writing skill to capture the myriad of inner thoughts which travel back and forth between our emotions. I didn't feel like I was reading about others' lives but, actually living among the characters. I felt my anger towards Clara, my sympathy towards Anna Lee, my disgust towards Preston, my heartache towards Bonnie and Jeff, and so on. The author adeptly places you inside the characters' hearts where the intricacies of forgiveness are insightfully unfolded in a captivating narrative worthy of any reader's time.
Gary W.
Georgetown, TX - Amazon.com Review
Melissa Lea Leedom has done a marvelous job of telling a story of a Christian Romance. You begin with an assortment of lifelike characters that grip your attention as you follow the ins and outs of a romance between a widowed pastor and one of his widowed members. I thoroughly enjoyed the many twists and turns of their romance. I look forward to more novels from Melissa Leedom.
Cecil Nelson
Fort Worth, TX - Amazon.com Review
With very likeable and relatable characters, this book presents a great message on the power of forgiveness. Whether you are new to coupledom or together for many years, everyone in a relationship should read it.
Sherry Haight
Tampa, FL - Amazon.com Review
I had never read a Christian Romance novel, and didn't think I would particularly like the genre. When I first started To Forgive, Divine, I thought I might have been right. However, the familiar plot (boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl) had so many surprising twists and such rich character development, I found myself relishing the time I spent with the book. I recognized so many people in the congregation! What a fun read!
Rebecca C.
Eagle, ID - Amazon.com Review
The author had me with the very thoughtful insights into Bonnie and Jeff, and what they were thinking as they move through things big and tiny in their lives, delivered so delicately, with just the right mix of power, like an expertly prepared gourmet dinner...I love the way Ms. Leedom writes! She has an extraordinary talent! She put me right there in the lives of good-hearted people trying to make their way as God would have them, and I can feel the romance and the hope and trepidation as if I were living the story myself. And it is so nice to read about good-hearted people for a change.
Court Adkins
Midland, TX
I found To Forgive, Divine to be thoroughly enjoyable and engaging. Although I'm a Christian, I'm usually not a fan of Christian novels. This good, clean (not always easy to find these days) romance (and more) was recommended to me by a friend, however, and I'm glad she did! Reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice, this novel takes place in a modern setting and touches on issues so prevalent today. Well-written and skillfully constructed, this book is a good read.
LeaMarie R.
Georgetown, TX - Amazon.com Review
I enjoyed reading To Forgive, Divine. Melissa Leedom captures the characters in a very personal way, allowing the readers to feel what the characters felt. She wrote a very heartfelt story expressing the character's struggles and victories while threading the need to forgive and trust that God's plan is being woven throughout our lives.
Jen Sowersby
Schuyler, New York
I enjoyed your writing very much. Just when I thought I figured each person's character, you added more. Excellent reading.
Earlene G.
Abilene, TX
Loved this book! Could not put it down. I am looking forward to more books from this author. Each chapter full of action that added to the story.
Sandi B.
Bulverde, TX
I loved it. Impressive!
LaNell C.
Georgetown, TX
Even though religion is the backdrop of the story, it doesn't distract. I flew through the story and enjoyed every page.
I really enjoyed this book. We all struggle with the insecurities the characters faced. At least everyone I know does. To Forgive, Divine is a nice reminder that God gives us wonderful opportunities, we just have to listen and be fearless.
Janna Koenig - Amazon.com Review
This book is a good read. It relates a lot to me.
Mary Ann B.
New Orleans, LA
To Forgive, Divine reads like a friend is telling you about someone she knows. I couldn't put it down. The struggles that the main character had in forgiving are common to most. When she finally was willing to forgive, she was blessed. You will enjoy reading this book.
Patty Willoughby,
Austin, TX
Your book was fantastic; couldn't put it down - it was great! Wish I could write like that.
Don B., Keller, TX.
I want to tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed reading To Forgive, Divine, and I look forward to reading it again and also to sharing it. It's one of those WOW books!
Mary M.
Austin, TX
I purchased your book and have read it twice. It is a wonderful story and you certainly brought out the 'real' people in each character. I have either known someone like them, or have found myself acting along the same lines.
June S., Texas
This is just the kind of love story that should be made into a movie. The characters feel like someone you know and are praying for to find comfort, peace, and love.
Debbie B.
Texas
Melissa,
I enjoyed your book, To Forgive, Divine. It was a perfect summer read for me. I plan to give a copy to my mother-in-law for Christmas.
Keep me posted if you write any more.
Joan W.
Killeen, TX
A wonderful story of love and forgiveness. Well-staged circumstances that kept me reading!
Claudette Renalds
Haymarket, VA - Amazon.com Review
There is nothing quite like old-fashioned and pure romance, especially when it happens in a book that is well written featuring likeable and charismatic characters. To Forgive, Divine by Melissa Leedom is such a book with these qualities. Chock full of endearing characters and set in Georgia, To Forgive, Divine is a Christian "Chick Lit" book that should not be missed.
Meet Bonnie, a widowed mother of two who is a dedicated Christian. She resides in Chandler City, GA, one of those small town type of places where you run into people you know every day, everywhere you go. In the beginning of our story, she has just begun to notice Jeff Wells, the pastor of Foster Road Baptist. Jeff is also widowed with a teenage son, and has just begun to notice Bonnie. The two of them however don't have time for anything but one special kiss between them before it all comes crashing down. Clara Adkinson, the town gossip, can't stand to see the two of them get together and starts spreading nasty rumors about them. And we all know how rumors can spread like wildfire in a small town! And unfortunately Clara manages to break the two of them up before anything really starts. Jeff believes Clara, and quickly cuts things off with Bonnie, who can't believe she has already fallen for him and is crushed.
Meanwhile other things are falling apart as well - a young boy who recently joined a gang breaks into the church office; a woman who has left her cheating husband joins the church, and is suddenly spotted all around town with Jeff; Bonnie can't stop running into men she wants little or nothing to do with, including a loud-mouthed, overbearing ex-flame (that she'd never gotten together with in the first place); Clara tries to have Pastor Jeff resign from the church because of false allegations; and Bonnie and Jeff can't stop running into each other even when they try, and it's the last thing they want! Will this town and congregation ever pull together? Will this group of people ever learn to forgive each other? Find out in this heartwarming story.
To Forgive, Divine was a wonderful book and I enjoyed it immensely. Bonnie, the main character, is a likeable woman with flaws that many can identify with. Her situation with Jeff as well as the other characters' lives kept me riveted to the book to see how it would all end. I also loved how the book wasn't sickly sweet and unrealistic. It showed the ins and outs of living a Christian life, even some of the bad things about it, such as hypocrisy and jealousy that sometimes takes place. Melissa Leedom manages to get the message of salvation through to her readers too in this delightful story.
Overall, I recommend To Forgive, Divine to all readers who love a romantic and down-to-earth story that will tug at your heartstrings. People with a Christian background will especially like it. Do you think that a true, simple and pure love doesn't exist? Read To Forgive, Divine - it may change your mind!
Riann Montgomery (ChickLitGirl)
New Hampshire
Amazon.com Review
An impressive piece of writing! I also loved that To Forgive, Divine naturally presented a clear explanation of the Gospel within the progression of the story and how we can be aware that God loves us and is seeking out each of us and is actively and personally at work within our individual lives.
Bonnie E.
McAllen, TX
Bonnie Callaway has had a difficult time dealing with the tragic death of her husband and, although the accident happened two years ago, she still has not given love a second chance. So, when things start happening between her and her single pastor, Jeff Wells, she isn't quite sure how to handle the transition.
Unfortunately, the attraction they were beginning to experience is shattered by distrust and betrayal. But as the compelling story of forgiveness continues, both Jeff and Bonnie are witness to lives around them being changed by forgiveness. Gradually, they are forced to recognize that, even as they urge others to love and forgive, they themselves neglect to do so.
To Forgive, Divine is a grand effort to illustrate the love and forgiveness of Jesus. Melissa Lea Leedom writes with both skill and sentiment. A recommended read.
Jack W. Ragan - Amazon.com Review
To Forgive, Divine book was a fun read that includes a love story and a reminder of the need to forgive those who have hurt us. Where would we be without God's Love and Forgiveness? The author includes an easy to understand plan to finding a personal relationship with our Creator. The travels take us to New Orleans and even a beach in Florida. Time for a sequel, Melissa Leedom.
Jean Collier,
Sioux City, IA - Empty Nest Vacations Review, Facebook.com
Just finished reading To Forgive, Divine. It was wonderful! Shows how prone we are to avoid applying the principles Jesus taught us in scripture and how our own pride and stubbornness bring only heartache and grief in our lives. After spending a couple of days with Bonnie and Jeff and the other characters, I hated to see it end. Perhaps a sequel is in the making, huh?
Catherine L.
Rockmart, GA
This is a GREAT book. Once I started reading it, I found it very hard to put it down. I read in between music students, while we were out in the car and my husband would be driving. He laughed and said do you want me to drive slower so that you can finish? Tonight I finished! WOW!. I really enjoyed it and found myself caught up with the characters.
I do hope that you plan some sequels.
Marjorie B.
Round Rock, TX
Wow. To Forgive, Divine is really something! I think it would make a good movie!
This is a book that would interest non-Christians, because it's real. It shows Christians as normal people with normal problems who just happen to have an intimate relationship with God to get them through.
Cynthia Rankin
Bel Air, MD
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your book. It was recommended by Joe, who goes to my church, and he did me a favor by doing so.
Chip D.
Georgetown, TX
To Forgive, Divine was a delight. I couldn't put it down once I got started. Read it in two days. Left the book with my daughter to read, and she had already read two chapters. I could just imagine all the characters in the book in our church.
Jeannie N.
Austin, TX
I just finished reading To Forgive, Divine last night. I have to say that I read it in two sittings. It was very uplifting. It shows that there can be life after tragedy if one is willing to open themselves up to new possibilities. It drove home the point that we all can listen to the same message and take away something quite different. I honestly felt sorry for Clara [the antagonist of the story] that she could not find the same kindness in her heart that Carolyn found after listening to the same message!
Barb P.
Austin, TX
To Forgive, Divine book is wonderful. Your characters are so well-defined - I could picture each one of them. From Bonnie's mix of shyness and courage to Clara, whom I can see just shaking with righteous indignation. It is said that we write what we know, and it's almost as if you know the people of Chandler City, Georgia, intimately.
You've also captured the flavor of small town life, peopled with those that can be found in most every community - the good and the bad/misguided.
Lastly, what a joy to read a book and know that I'm not going to run into gutter language or situations. It isn't often that one finds that these days.
June V.
Austin, TX
I so enjoyed reading To Forgive, Divine! I was quickly pulled into the story. Some of the settings were familiar places to me, so it was fun to read about them. The story of forgiveness was a beautiful picture of God’s grace and forgiveness to us!
Rhonda Creswell
Vicksburg, MS
It was nice meeting you at the Marble Falls conference. I wanted to let you know that I enjoyed reading To Forgive, Divine! Enjoyed the story line and the characters. Do you have any others? The picture on the book cover was a "grabber" for me! Still have not made the recipes yet--will sometime. Thanks!
Sincerely, Rhoni Harris
Marble Falls, TX
I am not a "reader" due to a vision perception dysfunction. However, I have been curious about this book since I first heard about it. I was struggling with hurt and forgiveness in my own life. As I read To Forgive, Divine, I felt like I was another character in the book. It was wonderful to be reminded of God's grace and mercy. I found it easy and delightful to read even though it has taken me a long time to do so. I typically fall asleep before the end of the page...I found myself not wanting to put it down to go to bed. Thank you, Melissa Leedom, for a wonderful Christian romance that kept me coming back day after day to complete! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
Marcy C..
Georgetown, TX - Amazon.com Review
I have just finished reading your book again. To Forgive, Divine is so true to life. You tell the truth so magnificently. This book is a must read for all ages.
Delta W.,
Taylor, TX
Hi there,
You don't know me, but I wanted to write you to tell you thank you. Please let me explain:
I was sitting home one day when my husband called me from Hastings to tell me that there was a Christian writer signing her book and asked if I would be interested in reading To Forgive, Divine?
When I told him to get it for me, I never expected a book that was as wonderful as yours. I have been reading Christian novels for a couple of years now. There have been many I have enjoyed, but only a few that I couldn't put down. Yours was definitely one I couldn't put down.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful writing with the rest of us. Your book was very touching, and I am very disappointed that it's over already, so I really hope you will have another one coming out soon.
Good luck and God bless you.
Kendra Newell
Round Rock, TX
Hi Ms. Leedom,
I just finished your book, To Forgive, Divine, and I LOVED it! Please tell me you have written, or are writing, other books.
I am very anxious to share your book with family and friends.
I will be checking the web to see if you have written anything else. You have a great gift!
Again, I really enjoyed your novel, and I know others I share it with will too!
Sue Nielsen
Spicewood, TX
Awesome book! I loved it!
Terri Johnson
New Orleans, LA
What a lovely story, I am all about reading more than just a "romance" in a book. This book definitely delivers on that count!
Paula Marie
Florida - Amazon.com Review
Have you read To Forgive, Divine? I'd love to post your comments! You can email them to me at
forgive490@yahoo.com
or drop me a line atTo Forgive, Divine
P.O. Box 1884
Georgetown, TX 78627
Or, better yet, why not leave a review on Amazon.com? Can't wait to hear from you!
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