Any Dream Will Do

July 3, 2017
Venerable romance author Macomber’s latest inspirational novel suffers from uninspired, generic plotting. The paint-by-numbers narrative, set in Seattle, is divided between Shay Benson, whose embezzlement on her brother’s behalf sent her to prison for three years, and pastor Drew Douglas, a widowed father of two. Shay’s struggle to start afresh is the perfect counterpoint for the minister’s crisis of faith. They become friends and a romantic connection blossoms, but some in the church have questions about her trustworthiness and, by extension, his judgment. Bad actors begin reappearing in Shay’s life, perfectly timed to threaten her acceptance and exaggerated by a promise she is determined to keep. Macomber’s heavy hand in this area turns her steadfast young heroine into a victim, which only adds to the plot’s hackneyed qualities. Agent: Theresa Park, Park Literary & Media.

August 1, 2017
Shay Benson's life was difficult as she suffered abuse, but it became much harder when she stole money from the bank where she worked for her druggy brother, who said he would be killed if she didn't. Three years later, released from prison with nowhere to go and no support system, she walks into a church seeking shelter from Seattle's December chill. There she meets Pastor Drew Douglas, a depressed widower with two children, who sends her to Hope Center. Shay and Drew become friends, and his kids adore her, but can a pastor and a convicted felon go beyond friendship? Told in alternating first-person narratives, this low-key romance, with its healthy dose of spirituality, will appeal to fans of Christian fiction who like tales of redemption featuring kind and caring individuals who grow and blossom through adversity. This is darker than the sweet novels that have made Macomber a beloved, best-selling author, but her multitudinous fans, all who seek uplifting stories, and readers of RaeAnne Thayne, Robyn Carr, Robin Lee Hatcher, and Amanda Cabot will enjoy it.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)

August 1, 2017

When Shay Benson leaves prison, her prospects are bleak. She sits in the back pew of a church wondering where God is and how she can move forward. In front of the church, on his knees, Pastor Drew Douglas is begging God for the clouds to lift. After the death of his wife, his two children and his congregation seem lost. Shay may be the answer to his prayers but it could be difficult with two people who have suffered so much loss. Drew introduces Shay to Hope Center, a place where she can get a fresh start. In turn, Drew reconnects with a friend who sets him on a course of healing that includes a relationship with Shay. But Shay has unfinished business with a dangerous former boyfriend and a wayward brother with his own problems. She struggles to get free of the old haunts that still threaten her happiness, and she and Drew work to build a future together. VERDICT Macomber never disappoints, and while this book is more spiritual in nature than her other titles, the message is uplifting and inspirational. Fans of Christian fiction or crossover works with a positive message will enjoy this book. [See Prepub Alert, 2/27/17.]--Jane Blue, Andrews P.L., NC

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2017

Raised in an abusive household and imprisoned after helping her no-good brother, indebted to a drug lord, with funds from the bank where she works, Shay stumbles into a church upon her release and meets widowed pastor Andrew Douglas. We know where this is going.

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.