Cecelia Dowdy's FIRST MATES is a lovingly written I Corinthians 13 type of love story that never stoops to baser levels to show the realistic affection and connection that Rainy and Winston have. I enjoyed watching them connect on the cruise, disconnect more than once, and reconnect, over things that really DO make a difference if a relationship is to be both faith-based and lasting. The characters were real. Winston told the truth about part of his past but Rainy has to learn another part of it, a part that she thinks is important, later and through Dowdy's wonderful character, Aunt Gladys. This was more than a love story. Everyone grew in believable ways, not just in ways that would make for a happy ending. Even the minor characters grew in some small way either because of Winston and Rainy's direct example or because of learning from their own mistakes. Also, the book wasn't preachy, but quite fun. Remember, it starts on a cruise so there's lots of eating. FIRST MATES made me hungry both for food and for what would happen to the couple next. Throughout the story, we're aware that God is in control. That's all that matters. I can't wait to see what Dowdy's nex novel's characters do. Be sure to check out her blog at: [...]
A virtuous Christian tale...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
Lorraine "Rainey" Jackson and Winston Michaels meet on a cruise that they both are taking to escape the harsh realities of their lives. Loving friends and family have sent them both off to heal their broken hearts. Rainey is recovering from a bad relationship with her ex-fiancé who left both her heart and her trust in shambles. On the first night of the cruise, she meets Winston who is recovering from the severe grief of losing his twin sister. They soon discover that they share an intense chemistry and a Christian lifestyle. Though initially swept up in the romantic nature of the cruise and an intense liking for each other, each soon begins to struggle with their own demons. After the cruise ends and they are back to their normal lives in Miami, Rainey and Jackson must decide if their chemistry is worth pursuing and if they should take a chance with each other. The path is uncertain as Rainey is uncertain that she can trust or love again so soon after the devastation she faced in her last relationship. Winston is afraid that the demons he is fighting with the help of his faith may surface again unexpectedly. Author Cecilia Dowdy has composed a strong faith-based story with compelling male and female leads. The story has a quaint, traditional feel that will satisfy those readers looking for virtuous Christian relationship fiction.
Can a cruise heal old wounds?
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
Taking a cruise is just what the doctor ordered. Or in this case two best friends and a loving brother seems that Rainey and Winston need a fresh start in life. Rainey Jackson is on a cruise due to her friends. With the sudden breakup from her ex-fiance Jordan Summers a cruise is in need to mend her broken heart. On going to dinner Rainey meets Winston Michaels, a Christian man who looking for solace after the death of his twin sister. Rainey and Winston seem to hit it off, but Rainey feels that all men are just like Jordan. She has to trust her faith in GOD to help her see through this difficult time. Winston on the other hand has an agenda of his own. With the untimely death of his twin sister, he is also battling his demons with alcohol. When Winston meets Rainey he professes his faith in the Lord, and how he found his way puts Rainey on the defensive. To her it seems that his faith is just an act. Winston wants a relationship with Rainey, but she can't let go of the pass. On returning, Jordan tries to pursue Rainey again knowing that she is now involved with Winston. Will Rainey let a good man go, due to her always comparing him to her ex-finance? Can she find the faith and strength to see beyond his faults? Will Winston fall from grace? Can he move on after the death of his twin sister? Can this relationship get started before it ends? This is an easy read. You travel through the Caribbean's, Florida and Maryland diary land. Cecelia Dowdy writes the book were anyone at one time or another can relate to the struggles of the two. You must have Faith, Trust and Believe.
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